Big Apple Parent March 2020 by City Guide NY

BigApple Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

MARCH 2020

CHOOSING A CAMP • 10 Questions to Ask a Camp Director • Manhattan Camp Directory • Camp Comparison Chart

Birthday Hacks

5 tips for a low-stress party

What is cancel culture?

BUILDING CHARACTER, CONFIDENCE, AND COMMUNITY June 29 - August 21, 2020 • Ages 4 ½ to 15

•

Swim daily with lessons from NYC’s best instructors.

•

Sample a variety of sports with guidance from expert coaches.

•

Exercise your creative side in urban gardening, arts and crafts, dance, science, theater, yoga, and more.

•

Venture beyond our campuses for exciting field trips.

•

Embrace our core camp values and apply them to school, sports, and social settings.

•

Bus service available in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

BATTERY PARK CITY • 212 North End Ave. campsagbpc@asphaltgreen.org

At Oasis I will... Play, Learn & Grow Gain Confidence Be Part of a Unique Community Unplug & Connect with Nature Try New Things Build Lifelong Friendships Have Positive & Supportive Role Models

Oasis Offers:

• Programs for Ages 3-15 • 8:30am-5:30pm • Extended day available • Hot Lunch Included! • Flexible Enrollment: 2-8 weeks • AC Transportation • Carnivals & Tie Dye • Special Events • Imagination Playground • Legos & Robotics • Arts, Crafts, Music, Dance • Professional Sports Instruction & Clinics • BRAND NEW Swim Program with Imagine Swim!

Join us for an info session!

> CENTRAL PARK

at The BASIS Independent School Tuesday, March 17th at 6:30pm - The BASIS School (795 Columbus Ave)

> DOWNTOWN at PS 110

Thursday March 12th at 6:30pm - PS 110 (Library) (285 Delancey St)

@oasisdaycamps BigAppleParent

inside

march 2020

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

16 Choosing a Camp 10 questions to ask a camp director

43 Take a Birthday Breather Tips to throw a stress-free kids’ birthday party

44 Pic Tips How to take better pictures of your kids

45 Thumb Sucking 101 How to handle this common childhood habit

46 “You’re Canceled!” What you need to know about the current craze

COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 9 News: What’s happening in the community 12 Baby: Rest Stops 14 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 50 Last Word: What is your darkest parenting secret?

THINGS TO DO 29 Family Activities Calendar 41 Outing: Building Brainpower

RESOURCES 18 Camp Directory 22 Camp Chart

42 Party Central Chart 48 Open Houses, Professional Services 49 Advertisers’ Index

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

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

BigAppleParent

editor’s note MARCH 2020 • Vol.36 • No.3

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

Happy Spring!

t’s officially spring this month, which means summer is right around the corner. And summer, to us, means one thing: camp! Is your child returning to their beloved camp from last year, or are you on the hunt for a new summer program? If you’re in the latter group, you’re in luck! You’ll find plenty of Manhattan camp options right in this issue: Turn to p. 18 for descriptions of all the area camps, and on p. 22, you’ll find a side-by-side camp comparison chart. Once you’ve narrowed down the list of potentials, speak with the directors to get a full picture of the camp—check out the 10 questions to ask on p. 16. If you’re in the former group, you’ll still find plenty of fun and advice to help you be a better parent in this issue, whether you’re wondering how to talk to your teen about cancel culture (p. 46), how to get your toddler to stop sucking her thumb (p. 45), or how to throw a stress-free birthday party (p. 43). For us, spring is also a season of growth, whether it’s the flowers blooming, baby animals arriving at the local zoo, or seeing your child near the end of another school year (can we pause time, so they stay small for just a little longer?). One way we’re growing is by creating new partnerships with local, popular Instagrammers and bloggers to give you even more resources for great advice and ideas, including Pamela Pekerman, whom you can meet on p. 10! We’re excited to introduce you to more of them in the coming months! Here’s to this season growth—however happens looks for your family! Katelin Walling Editorial Director

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Keep in Touch: @nymetroparents nymetroparents.com editor@nymetroparents.com

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

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, Meredith Perl, Merrill Sugarman Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy, 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 EDITOR: Jennifer Rojas

OPERATIONS

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

PRODUCTION

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

MARKETING

Meet This Month’s Cover Kid!

ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Anastasiya Borunova

Our cover star is 3-year-old Jasper from Manhattan—a grand-prize winner in our 2019 Cover Kids Contest! A huge thanks to Macy’s Backstage for Jasper’s outfit, and an even bigger shout out to Sarah Merians of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) for the great photo!

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

Want to know when the 2020 cover contest opens? Sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/newsletter!

FINANCE

CREDIT MANAGERS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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 © 2019, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

SETTOGA MOMENTS LAST A LIFETIME Photo: Jennifer Weisbord

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR NEW SETTOGA FAMILIES: SAVE $150 WITH CODE BIGAPPLEPARENT CAMPSETTOGA.ORG | 646.505.4430 A PROUD PARTNER OF UJA-FEDERATION OF NEW YORK BigAppleParent

UNPLUG THIS SUMMER SUMMER CAMP 2020 JUNE 22 - SEPTEMBER 4

SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

212.336.6846 â&#x20AC;¢ camps@chelseapiers.com 8

| nymetroparents.com BAPMarch Full Camp2020 202003.indd 1

FLEXIBLE CAMP SCHEDULE CHOOSE 1, 2 OR MORE WEEKS ENROLL IN WEEKS 10 AND/OR 11 AND SAVE AN ADDITIONAL 10% Expires 3/31/20.

chelseapiers.com/camp 2/24/20 3:31 PM

Courtesy Six Flags Great Adventure

news

Six Flags for All

The Jackson, NJ amusement park has plans to become an inclusive environment all year long.

Six Flags Great Adventure has plans to earn a Certified Autism Center™ designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. This means at least 80 percent of the guestfacing staff at Six Flags must complete a training and certification program through IBCCES, complete onsite audits, and make a commitment to future training. The Jackson, NJ location already hosts annual Autism Days, during which the park transforms into a sensoryfriendly space with lowered light and noise levels, shorter lines, and decompression areas. But the company is working toward the designation because it understands that visiting new places or going on family vacations can be challenging and overwhelming for kids with autism, and it wants to be an inclusive fun space. “We are proud to partner with IBCCES to ensure that guests on the autism spectrum have the best possible experience when visiting our parks,” said Jason Freeman, the Six Flags vice president of safety. “The certification process will equip our team members with the tools and training needed to better serve guests with special needs. We want them to know Six Flags stands ready to welcome them with open arms.” Find out more details at nymetroparents.com/six-flags.

BigAppleParent

Courtesy Pamela Pekerman

news

It’s Story Time! In honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday, March 2 is National Read Across America Day! So grab your favorite books and snuggle up with the kiddos for an extra story time. If you want to go all out, only read books by tongue-twisting, rhyming master. Our favorite? Daisy-Head Mayzie!

Pamela Pekerman with her two children

Hustling Like a Mom Celebrate Spring March 19 at 11:50pm officially marks the arrival of spring, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac—bring on the warmer weather! To celebrate, we found the top 20 things to do this season in Manhattan. Check them out at nymetroparents.com/ spring.

Got a Green Thumb? Get your hands dirty and cultivate your child’s green thumb by creating grassy gnomes (think: chia pets) to watch over your garden— or add some greenery to your life if you don’t have space for a garden. Visit nymetroparents.com/ gnomes for directions.

ou might recognize Pamela Pekerman from morning shows, where she appeared for a decade talking about style trends. And then she had kids and decided she didn’t want to travel as much. “So, I began to write about the real-life moments I was experiencing as a mom of two under two!” she says. Soon she was blogging about time-saving tips for busy moms, creating videos for Parents.com, and hosting events for moms. Her focus evolved into content and networking events that appeal to hustling mompreneurs. While she still does school pickup and drop-off every day, she says, “I’ve never felt more fulfilled by my work than I am now, as I grow a community of women that are redefining what it means to be a working mom.”

What’s the best parenting advice you ever received?

What do you think is a parent’s hardest job?

Listen to the crowd but go with your gut. Don’t silence your inner mama bear, as she truly knows what is best for her cubs. Sure, it’s nice to be a PTA mom, but that might not be on your priority list. …Parenting is hard, and you need to ensure you are coming at it from a place of inner contentment and confidence in your choices—because so many moments will challenge your sanity and your sense of self.

Being present. It’s a gift to the person you are speaking with, in this case your children, to be present, to not have your mind wander. In 2019, I found that replacing the phrase “I have to” with “I get to” gave me a dose of gratitude for that which was before me. I get to practice piano with my kids. I get to pick up my kids from school.

Read more from Pamela Pekerman—and learn about her next Hustle Like a Mom event—at nymetroparents.com/hustle.

Connect with Pamela Pekerman facebook.com/PamelaPekerman

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

@pamelapekerman

Pamela Pekerman

New Places, New Programs

Springing Forward

STEM Camp Expands Themes Launch Math + Science Centers are offering a variety of new topics starting this summer, as well as bringing back old favorites. Camps for juniors (kindergarten-first grades) will feature the topics I Wanna Be…An Explorer!, I Wanna Be…A Detective!, I Wanna Be…A Zookeeper!, and I Wanna Be…An Animator! For second-fourth grades, Launch will feature Potent Potions + Fizzing Formulas. Plus, the kids’ camps (second-fourth grades) and tween camps (fifth-seventh grades) will include daily Launch Studios sessions in which kids document their camp activities, create how-to videos, produce skits and a camper-run newscast, and more. 173 W. 81st St., Upper West Side; 112 E. 75th St., Upper East Side; 49 White St., Tribeca; 30 W. 68th St., Upper West Side; 212-600-1010; launchmath.com.

Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 8, which means we lose an hour of our already limited sleep. While “springing forward” makes us more tired (cue the extra cup of coffee), it can turn our children into major grumps. To help your kids adjust (and be a little less grumpy), have them go to bed 15 minutes earlier over the next few nights to get them back on track, suggests Lisa J. Meltzer, Ph.D., a sleep expert and co-author of Pediatric Sleep Problems: A Clinician’s Guide to Behavioral Interventions.

The Importance of Sleep

When it’s Friday but it’s not 5 o’clock yet!! —Posted by @willzcrewnyc

Sleep is a pillar of health and is essential to human functioning, health, wellbeing, and healing. And for babies, sleep is essential to development. The growth hormone is released during sleep, causing your infant to gain weight, length, and head circumference; the brain develops and fosters better cognitive development; and it helps with social and emotional development. For more on the importance of sleep, and how it benefits the family unit as a whole, visit nymetroparents.com/sleep.

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

BigAppleParent 11

mommybites

Rest Stops How to get baby to sleep anywhere By Christina Vercelletto

sleep routine is important for keeping your baby wellrested and happy—not to mention yourself! Although it can be tricky at times, sticking to that hard-won routine when you can’t be home all day (and when can you?) is well worth the effort, says Kim West, aka The Sleep Lady, an infant sleep coach. “A nap-deprived baby will have more difficulty going to sleep at bedtime and staying asleep,” West warns. “Plus, it will be easier for a well-rested baby to nap on the go than one who is already overtired.”

In the Bedroom It helps to have baby in a bedside bassinet for the first few weeks so you can keep middle-of-the-night feedings simple and in the dimmest light possible. “The biggest task in the first two months is helping with day and night confusion,” West says. “In the evening, keep the house quiet, and interactions with your infant brief and boring.”

In the Den, Kitchen…Anywhere A comfy, portable crib can be a huge help, especially in the early days, when your newborn’s internal clock can’t tell the difference between night and day. It will allow you to start dinner, put away groceries, or load the dishwasher while your baby naps nearby.

At Grandma’s House “Timing for naps is everything!” West insists. “It’s essential that you watch your baby’s wakeful windows so that he doesn’t stay awake long enough to get overtired.” Therefore, it’s wise to

always bring along a compact crib. Choose one with a canopy to block the sun and protect baby from insects so, even if you decide to go to the park, baby’s sleep schedule won’t have to miss a beat.

On a Walk Turn your stroller into a “napmobile” by reclining the seat so your child can stretch out. Some babies need constant motion to go to sleep and stay asleep. “If you stop moving, and your baby wakes up after too short of a nap, then start moving again,” West advises. Also, consider using a stroller shade to block out light and distractions. “This is especially helpful for alert babies who have a harder time shutting the world out to go to sleep.”

Hitting the Road Car seat naps can go a long way toward keeping your tot’s daily sleep requirements met. If possible, plan car rides at your baby’s regular nap times to make it easier for her to snooze, West advises. Play relaxing, soft music, if any, and consider putting up a shade on the car window next to your child’s seat.

On Vacation Bring a familiar piece of home—your little one’s favorite lovey or teether—to comfort and soothe her to sleep. West also recommends setting the scene: “quieting the environment, dimming the lights, playing soothing music, reading.” Finally, sticking to a consistent bedtime, eliminating noise, and slowing down with a low-key activity will cue baby’s body for sleep—and it works for parents, too.

Mommybites’ nanny boards only feature postings from nannies’ current families. You can rely on their recommendations. If you need a nanny or babysitter, visit Mommybites.com. 12

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

TEPS S

on Broadway

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Summer 2020 Dance once a week or study intensively…We have a program for you!

First steps

Ages 18 mos – 5 yrs Classes begin June 9

kids & teens

Ages 6 – 14 Classes begin June 9

summer Workshop & intensive Ages 7 – 18 Sessions begin July 6

ballet | Hip Hop | Jazz & More RegiSteR Now! 2121 Broadway @ 74th St, 4th Floor, NYC 10023 | 212-874-3678 | StepsNYC.com/youth-programs

NYFamilyCampGuideAd_March.indd 1

2/10/20 3:58 PM 13 BigAppleParent

advice

Ask DadandBuried My sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday is coming up. We used to host birthday parties in our home, but heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in third grade, and his friend group has gotten bigger. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure I want to deal with decorating or cleaning up after 15 kids and their parents. So, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m considering renting a play spaceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;one of the bouncy venues. But I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t decide! â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Jean P., Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

T # # " # "# $ !

! ! " $# #

! $

" % !" ! #

#$ $" $ 14

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

his is a question Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve wrestled with myself, multiple times. Is it better to host a birthday party at home or to have the party at a venue? Not an easy callâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;unless youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re among the 1 percent. I mean, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re one of the Kardashians and you have a palatial estate that you can decorate like mad, and install bouncy houses and games, complete with employees who will handle setup and cleanup? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the way to go. But if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just one of us regular folks? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s convenience vs. cost. Going the venue route is super convenient. Everythingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;except maybe the birthday cakeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;is usually handled by the venue. The staff decorates, plans the games and activities on-site, and handles all the cleanup. It can be more expensive to secure those hoursâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;especially for a venue in the NYC areaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largely stress-free. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s huge. Hosting at home can be cheaper, but it may cost your sanity. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be stressed about decorations; youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to provide food and drink and the fun. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be stressed about cleaning before guests arrive; youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be stressed about cleaning after guests leave; thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of work involved! And while it should definitely cost less money, making sure everything is Pinterest-perfect may end up costing more than you suspect. (And if you enlist your arts and crafts-impaired spouse in the preparations, you might have to factor in the expense of the resulting divorce as well!) All the extra workâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and its accompanying headachesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;may counter the cost benefit. It ultimately comes down to which you prefer: saving money or peace of mind. One more thing: If you do host the party at home, I implore you to provide beer or wine for your fellow parents. Nobody needs to suffer through one of those things stone-cold sober! Though some venues do allow it, many donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. In fact, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what ultimately tips the scales for me. Looks like weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be hosting the next birthday party at home! Our advice column features the wise and humorous commentary of Mike Julianelle (aka @DadandBuried), a 40-something influencer with a popular podcast who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two kids.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DADANDBURIED? Send it to editor@nymetroparents.com with the subject â&#x20AC;&#x153;DadandBuriedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advice.â&#x20AC;?

THE #1

TECH CAMP

FOR AGES 7-19

Coding. Game dev. Robotics. Digital arts. This isn’t just a camp. It’s an experience unlike any other. Here, you push past the boundaries of school, ﬁnding your squad and bonding over the latest tech. Led by expert instructors, you will build the skills needed to forge a brilliant future.

Request your brochure today!

iDTechCamps.com | 1-888-709-8324

SPORTIME SUMMER CAMPS JMTA SUMMER TRAINING CAMPS

JMTA GREEN & YELLOW BALL TRAINING JMTA MAC RED BALL & MAC ORANGE BALL PRESCHOOL UNDER 10 TENNIS TENNIS & SPORTS EXCEL TENNIS VOLLEYBALL HOCKEY MORE! Register Today!

(212) 427-6150

www.SportimeCamps.com

Camp locations in New York City, 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. Programs and services vary at each SPORTIME Camp location.

BigAppleParent 15

Choosing

Camp

10 questions to ask a camp director By Jess Michaels

any parents select a camp based on a friend or relative’s rave reviews. But choosing your child’s summer experience based on hearsay or personal anecdotes is often problematic, according to the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. Instead, it’s important to thoroughly research a camp in order to determine if it’s a good fit for your kid. The ACA suggests making an appointment with the camp’s director and asking the following 10 questions.

What is the camp’s mission or philosophy?

Who is the staff?

Each camp has its own. Make sure this particular camp’s mission matches your own family’s values.

Ask about the ages and backgrounds of staff members. Find out how they were hired and what kind of training and background checks they went through.

What is your background and experience?

Are you able to accommodate my child’s special needs?

Ask the camp director about his experience, years at the camp, and previous jobs. You want to make sure you find a commonality here. When you send your child to camp, you are forming a partnership with the director to ensure your child has a successful camp experience.

If your child has any special considerations, such as having food allergies or ADHD, or is wheelchair-bound, be completely upfront about her needs and make sure the camp is able to accommodate them.

What type of child is successful at the camp? Does it sound like she is describing your child? If not, this isn’t the camp for your child.

After pouring over websites and marketing materials, parents often start to feel like all camps look alike. Find out what makes this camp stand out from the others.

Can you describe the program?

How are conflicts handled?

Find out if the program is structured (has a set schedule) or elective (children choose their activities). Also inquire about how the program changes for older kids. For example: Do the elective choices increase with age?

While camps work hard to build a caring community, fights among campers can occur. Ask the camp director how the camp handles these types of conflicts.

What are the camp’s safety procedures?

Ask if you can call parents of campers currently enrolled at the camp, especially ones with kids who are the same ages as your children. They will be your next valuable source of information.

It’s important to know about emergency action plans, water safety, medical staff, and camper-to-staff ratios.

What makes your camp unique?

May I speak with references?

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

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

There are hundreds of day camps and sleepaway camps in the New York area, which can make determining the just-right spot for your child overwhelming. Here’s advice from camp directors on how to create the perfect summer for your kid: Know What You—and Your Child—Want

Do Your Research

Consult with your child (it’s her summer after all!) but also consider what you want her to gain, whether that’s learning how to swim, making friends, or STEM skills.

Browse through websites—and involve your child, too. Same goes for when you visit camp fairs. As you research, pay attention to interactions with the staff, and the facilities, activities, and counselor-tocamper ratio.

Look into the Camp’s Accreditation It’s important that prospective camps are accredited by the American Camp Association—it’s a sign of approval that isn’t easy to achieve.

Keep Your Budget in Mind Look at the total all-in cost for each camp—including transportation, clothing, gear, etc. Then take all the camps that are over-budget off your list.

Don’t Forget About Day-to-Day Logistics Think about the location of pickup and drop-off. And, ask about whether the camp has flexibility if you want to take a family vacation.

Summer Camp at The École!

Call or Visit the Camps on Your Shortlist Most directors recommend visiting your two to three finalist camps. Bring your child and make sure the camp seems clean and well-maintained. Calling the camp director is your next best option—try to dig into factors that aren’t mentioned on the website. The camp should be one your child can enjoy this summer, and for many summers to come. For more tips from camp directors on choosing a camp, visit

nymetroparents.com/choose-camp.

The École offers a bilingual summer camp, welcoming both current students and friends from the neighborhood. No French or English background necessary! Find out more on our website, at www.theEcole.org.

BigAppleParent 17

CAMPS DIRECTORY Day Camps 92Y Camps

1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side 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

Upper East Side and Battery Park City 212-298-7900 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 Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp builds character, confidence, and community. Children ages 4½ to 15 express themselves through swim, sports, arts, and innovative programming. Register today.

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex

West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Located along the Hudson River, Chelsea Piers is a 28-acre sports village that offers NYC’s biggest and most flexible summer camp program! For 23 summers, athletes of all ages have enjoyed the most dynamic sports curriculum available. Up to 11 weeks and 15 sports to choose from.

917-551-6424 dwightsummercamp.org We offer ages 4-12 a range of creative, athletic, and action-packed activities and adventures! Campers can also focus on one specialty in our Spark Camps-mix and match weeks! With indoor swim instruction, great trips, and theme days, the fun never ends. Receive a 10 percent discount with code BAP20!

International Academy of New York

Shelley Borror Jackson, head of school 4 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-641-0260 ianyc.org; info@ianyc.org Summer fun for toddlers! Children ages 3-5 will have fun-filled days with games, art, science, music, and outdoor excursions. Hosted by certified early childhood educators at the International Academy of New York, right next to Central Park. Half- or fullday. For info and pricing, contact Elizabeth Hebert: ehebert@ianyc.org.

JCC Manhattan Summer Camps Camp Settoga

646-505-4430 campsettoga.org Camp Settoga is a one-of-a-kind day camp located in Pomona for children ages 4-12 that combines traditional summer camp experiences with Jewish values and a dynamic variety of programming. Transportation, towel service, lunch, and snack are included. Activities include sports, swimming, art, and culinary.

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan

120 Warren St., Tribeca 212-766-1104 x1250 downtowndaycamps.com camp@manhattanyouth.org Our private Tribeca facilities include our private 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 MiniGolf, Ooey Gooey Science, visual arts, Lego construction, robotics, Animal Hour, karate, tennis, music, and drumming.

Oasis in Central Park 795 Columbus Ave., Upper West Side 646-698-1800 Kirstin Spillman, director Oasis in Downtown-PS 110 285 Delancey St., Lower East Side 649-519-5058 Stacey Soto, director 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.

Dwight Summer Camp

YMCA Summer Camps

Downtown Day Camp

Dwight Riverside Campus 433 West 66th St. (ages 4-5), Upper West Side 2116 First Ave. (ages 6-12), East Harlem

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

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com admissions@camphuntington.com Camp Huntington, a coed, residential summer camp for children and young adults with autism and related developmental and learning disabilities, 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 14-17). Programs include language study, age focused excursions, and camp activities.

Specialty Camps Atlantic Acting School

76 Ninth Ave., Suite 313, Chelsea 212-691-5919 atlanticactingschool.org/kids-andteens/summer education@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 camps culminate in a final performance for family and friends.

Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Flushing Register now at: ntc.usta.com The Billie Jean National Tennis Center offers year-round programs: daytime, after-school, and weekend, as well as funfilled summer day camps with multi-sport activities for all ages and levels. Campers work on tennis techniques, tactics, multisport conditioning, and strategy. Enrollment available at ntc.usta.com.

BOLD Arts

Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Brooklyn 419-349-2465 bold-arts.com; info@bold-arts.com

BOLD Arts invites children ages 4-14 for a weeklong, high-energy, immersive dance program. Join us on the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, or Brooklyn for one-four weeks of camp. Register by March 15 for our Early Bird Rates! Learn more and register at bold-arts.com or email us at info@ bold-arts.com.

Boston Leadership Institute

781-431-2514 bostonleadershipinstitute.com Multiple award-winning summer STEM programs are just hours away. Boston is a student mecca and renowned for higher education, biotech, and leading medical centers. Medical and Surgical Research, Entrepreneurship, DNA Science, Chemistry, Robotics, Anatomy, Architecture, Engineering, Investment Banking, and more than 30 other options are available. One-week or three-week sessions.

Camp Huntington

China Institute

40 Rector St., 2nd floor 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.

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center

516-367-5170 dnalc.cshl.edu dnalc@cshl.edu Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center is the world’s first science center devoted entirely to genetics education. Each summer since 1985 our laboratory classrooms have filled with students participating in fiveday science camps. Fun, challenging programs guided by experienced teachers for science enthusiasts entering sixth-12th grade. continued on page 20

THEIR BRILLIANT FUTURE STARTS HERE.

With a focus on rigorous, hands-on academics, wellness, innovation and family service, Zeta Schools prepare students to be leaders and problem solvers in a modern world.

APPLY NOW – zetaschools.org/learnmore Excellent, free public elementary schools in your neighborhood

BUILD SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY!

STEM SUMMER CAMP 10 WEEKS JUNE 29 - SEPT 4 SAVE $50 WITH CODE BIGAPPLEPARENT!

- Scratch Coding Game Design - Engineer Circuits & Contraptions - Design & Code in Minecraft & Roblox - Build & Fly Rockets & Airplanes - Design & 3D Print Your Imagination - Create something new everyday!

LOCATIONS: Upper West Side, Upper East Side,

Ages 6-14

West Village, Lower East Side, Park Slope

+ Holiday Camps & Builder Birthdays www.maker-state.com 917-780-2345

BigAppleParent 19

continued from page 18

Collina Italiana

1556 Third Ave. (at 87th Street), Suite 603, Upper East Side 212-427-7770 collinaitaliana.com info@collinaitaliana.com Italian Summer in the City is for kids 3-8 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 playgrounds and museums; Il Tavolo in Italiano-lunch time!

The École

111 E. 22nd St., Flatiron 646-410-2238 theecole.org; bonjour@theecole.org The École’s Summer Camp offers a fun, enriching, bilingual experience in French and English through a wide range of activities. Students are immersed in both French and English through art, music, games, sports, and cultural excursions. Designed and tailored for different age groups ranging from ages 3-10 of all language backgrounds.

Eye Level Manhattan

437 E. 12th St., East Village 212-260-8020 eastvillage@myeyelevel.com 104 Reade St., Tribeca 212-346-PREP (7737) info@rsprep.com 307 E. 84th St., Upper East Side 212-737-3344 uppereastside@myeyelevel.com eyelevelny.com Don’t let your child suffer from “Summer Brain Drain!” Three months free of 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: Tennis, Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, Lacrosse, Football, Multi-Sports, Field Hockey, Cheerleading, Volleyball, Circus Arts, Magic, Softball, Diving, Horseback Riding, Swim, Academic, STEAM Education, and Rising Stars.

GLOBAL DANCE NYC – PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMP 106 E. 86th St., 3rd floor, Upper East Side 646-831-9727

globaldancenyc.com support@globaldancenyc.com This innovative camp is designed for budding artists ages 6-13. Held June 22-26, from 9am-3pm, early drop-off and half-day options available. For the coolest kids in town! We offer dance and vocal classes, cooking, musical theater, crafts, yoga, and rooftop time. In-studio showing on the last day of camp.

Camp

645 Saint Nicholas Ave. (at 141st Street), Harlem 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: music, dance, theatre, and art and design.

iD Tech

Held at 150 prestigious campus locations 1-888-709-8324 idtech.com iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 450,000 alumni and more than 20 years of experience. Summer programs for ages 7-19 are held at 150 prestigious campuses including NYU, Caltech, and Imperial College London. Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics, and creative arts. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Camp Intrepid

Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue 646-381-5166 intrepidmuseum.org/camp camp@intrepidmuseum.org Camp Intrepid is Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum’s full-day camp program where history and STEM come together! Winter, spring, and summer camp dates available. Sign up for daily or weekly sessions. Discounts available for museum members and early bird sign-ups. Camp groups also welcome!

JB Yoga SUP and Yoga Empowerment Camps

917-301-6919 jbyoga.com; jessica@jbyoga.com Our fifth year running, camp is taught by certified lifeguards and yoga teachers. Your children will learn skills of stand-up paddle boarding, as well as water safety and rescue. Campers will also gain vital knowledge about how to take care of one of our most precious resources-the water.

Launch Math + Science Centers

Multiple Manhattan locations: Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Tribeca 212-600-1010

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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.

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.

MakerState STEM Summer Camp

Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Lower East Side, and Park Slope 917-780-2345 maker-state.com info@maker-state.com MakerState STEM Summer Camp offers kids ages 6-14 fun-first, hands-on projects in 3-D design, LEGO robotics, rocket science, Minecraft engineering, coding, and outdoor play! Ten individually themed weeks: Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Lower East Side, and Park Slope. Receive $50 off/week discount with code: MetroParent.

MWS Student Camps

NORY

25 Pine St. 330 E. 45th St., Midtown East 120 W. 76th St., Upper West Side 914-996-6607 nory.co/summer; hello@nory.co Each week at NORY’s summer camp for young innovators, your child will be

immersed in an eye-opening theme and take on creative challenges with their peers as a team. The experiential learning program allows your innovator (ages 3-12) to design, find their own solutions to problems, and fail without fear.

Play On! Studios - Theater Camps

Church of St. Paul and St. Andrew, 263 W. 86th St. 347-709-4149 Lena Moy-Borgen, director playonstudios.com info@playonstudios.com Play On! Studios offers awesome theater camps for grades kindergarten-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, non-competitive 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 Training 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.

Steps on Broadway Youth Programs 2121 Broadway at 74th Street, 4th floor, Upper West Side 212-874-3678 stepsnyc.com/youth-programs youthprograms@stepsnyc.com Steps on Broadway Youth Programs is the place to be this summer for dancers of all ages and levels! The Summer Workshop and Summer Intensive (ages 7-18) are geared toward the dancer who wants to dance Monday-Friday for one-six weeks. Join us for an exciting summer of dance!

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 21

Atlantic Acting School Chelsea atlanticactingschool.org

Ballet Academy East Upper East Side balletacademyeast.com

Billie Jean King National Tennis Center ntc.usta.com

Camp Huntington High Falls camphuntington.com Camp Settoga Pomona campsettoga.org

Chatty Child Speech and Occupational Therapy Tribeca chattychild.com Chelsea Piers Summer Camp Chelsea chelseapiers.com

China Institute Downtown Manhattan chinainstitute.org

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center Cold Spring Harbor dnalc.cshl.edu

Collina Italiana Upper East Side collinaitaliana.com

Boston Leadership Institute Wellesley, MA bostonleadershipinstitute.com

BOLD Arts Brooklyn, Upper East Side, Upper West Side bold-arts.com

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

Music

Academic Enrichment

Asphalt Green Upper East Side asphaltgreen.org/camp

Day Trips

Swimming

Sports

Flexible Scheduling

Theater

Extended Hours

STEAM/Robotics

Lunch

92Y Camps Upper East Side 92y.org

PROGRAMS: Half Day Option

Transportation

Camp Chart

SERVICES:

Downtown Day Camp Downtown Manhattan downtowndaycamp.com

Dwight Summer Camp Upper West Side dwightsummercamp.org

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

19-04-23.Landscape Magazine ad_S45710_print_NYMP_OUTLINED.indd 1

23/04/2019 17:25

For boys and girls Nursery to Grade 8 For more information: info@wetherbypembridge.org | 646-213-3400 www.wetherby-pembridge.org | 7 East 96th Street, New York BigAppleParent 23

iD Tech Held at 150 campus locations idtech.com

International Academy of New York Upper East Side ianyc.org Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Midtown West intrepidmuseum.org

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

Swimming

JBYoga and SUP East Hampton jbyoga.com

Launch Math + Science Centers Upper West Side launchmath.com

MakerState STEM Summer Camps Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Lower East Side, and Park Slope maker-state.com/stem-summercamp

MWS Student Camps Toronto, Ontario mwscamps.com

Global Dance NYC - Performing Arts Summer Camp Upper East Side globaldancenyc.com

John McEnroe Tennis Academy Summer Training Camp Randallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island sportimecamps.com/nyc John McEnroe Tennis Academy Summer Training Camp Amagansett sportimecamps.com/jmta-am

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

Sports

Theater

STEAM/Robotics

Half Day Option

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

PROGRAMS:

Music

Future Stars Summer Camps Purchase fscamps.com

Lunch

East Hampton Sports Camp @ SPORTIME Amagansett East Hampton sportimeny.com/ehsc Eye Level East Village, Tribeca, Upper East Side eyelevelny.com

Transportation

Camp Chart

SERVICES:

NORY Chelsea nory.co

Oasis Camp in Central Park Upper West Side oasischildren.com

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

D owntown Day Camp MAKING MEMORIES SINCE 1992

JUNIORS:

ag e s

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

ag e s

9-13

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

FUN STEM ACTIVITIES

2 – 8 Week Options LOCATED IN TRIBECA BUS SERVICE BELOW 34TH STREET BOOK A TOUR downtowndaycamp.com || 212.766.1104 x250

SINCE 1983

FRENCH LANGUAGE CAMPS in Montréal

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

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

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

BigAppleParent 25

Play On! Studios Upper West Side playonstudios.com

Pusteblume International Preschool Chelsea pusteblumenyc.org

SPORTIME Quogue Summer Camps East Quogue sportimecamps.com/quo

The Ă&#x2030;cole Flatiron einy.org/summer-camp The Little Gym Scarsdale and Upper West Side thelittlegym.com

Treebath Nomad tree-bath.com

YMCA Summer Camps Locations across Manhattan ymcanyc.org/camp

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

Music

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

Willan Academy of Music Midtown East willanacademy.com

Swimming

Sports

Theater

Flexible Scheduling

STEAM/Robotics

Extended Hours

PROGRAMS: Half Day Option

Lunch

Oasis Camp in Downtown Downtown Manhattan oasischildren.com

Transportation

Camp Chart

SERVICES:

Where children ages 5-14 with language-based learning disabilities and attention deficits become skilled, strategic learners and confident self-advocates At Gateway, we empower students to become independent learners and teach them the language, literacy, and critical thinking skills that are the foundations for success. www.gatewayschool.org 211 West 61st Street, New York, NY 10023

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

EM T S Y NOR

GET GET REPORT REPORT CARD CARD GET REPORT CARD GET REPORT CARD READY READY ATAT AT EYE EYE LEVEL LEVEL READY EYE LEVEL READY AT EYE LEVEL

Develop Develop theacademic academic the academic skills skills to to Develop the skills to Develop the academic skills to set your set your child child apart apart and and reach reach set your child apart and reach set your child apart and reach new new levels levels of success of success in and inout and out out new levels of success inin and new levels of success and out ofofthe the of classroom. the classroom. classroom. the classroom. Individualized Instruction • Individualized • Individualized Instruction Instruction • Individualized Instruction • Basic Basic Thinking & Critical Thinking Math • Basic Thinking Thinking &&Critical & Critical Thinking Thinking MathMath • Basic Thinking Critical Thinking Math • Reading Reading Comprehension & Vocabulary • • Reading Comprehension Comprehension & Vocabulary & Vocabulary • Reading Comprehension Vocabulary • Integrated Writing Program • Integrated Writing Program • Integrated • Integrated Writing Writing Program Program

FREE FREE FREE FREE ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT

ASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT

Eye Level of Upper East NY 307 East 84th St. New York, NY 10028 (212) 737-3344

Eye Level of East Village NY 437 East 12th St. New York, NY 10009 (212) 260-8020

www.eyelevelny.com BigAppleParent 27

Brand NEW

Expanded Space and Programming!

Get close to ‘La Bella Lingua’ without leaving NYC!

• Giardino dei Bambini

Italian morning drop off (Ages 2-4)

• Girotondo Giallo e Rosso

Italian Playgroup and after-school (Ages 2-3, 4-5)

• Girotondo Blu e Viola

Reading and Writing in Italian (Ages 6-8, 9+)

• Workshops on Saturdays • Private tutoring • Adult classes

1556 Third Avenue, Suite 602-603 • NY, NY 10128 212.427.7770 • info@collinaitaliana.com collinaitaliana.com

Give your child a global advantage. Our exceptional (and free!) French immersion education is growing the next generation of bilingual, biliterate global citizens. Serving grades pre-k to 8th grade. If you desire an academically rigorous education with an outstanding program of cultural enrichment and the arts, please register for a tour and inquire about our current openings.

311 West 120th Street 212-666-4134 x 2 www.nyfacs.net | mba@nyfacs.net

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT expires April 18

TRIBECA FAMILY THEATER Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friends Saturday, March 14 at 11AM

Click, Clack, Moo

Saturday, March 28 at 11AM

The Boy Who Grew Flowers Saturday, April 4 at 11AM

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

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

YMCA OF GREATER NEW YORK

SUMMER CAMP 2020 Over 70 camp locations in NYC and a sleepaway camp in upstate NY. Financial Assistance Available. Visit YMCAnyc.org/camp

R A D N E CAL

H C R MA

3 WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

nyccal@davlermedia.com

ay y-by-d our da line: t u o dar Check alendar on c /calen

ts.com

paren

od, borho neigh and cost. y b h Searc type, age, event ily! ted da Upda

tro nyme

for details on Turn the page oll’s Festival) Hinamatsuri (D

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

nymetroparents.com/register 30 Editor’s Hot Tickets 31 Holiday Fun 32 Little Makers 34 Educational Activities 36 Theater, Concerts, & Movies

37 Get Active 38 Museums & Exhibits 40 Special Needs, 5 Events Worth Leaving the City

EDITOR’S

T O H TICKETS

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

‘Four Go Wild in Wellies’

The Pop Ups

‘Paddington Gets in a Jam’

WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Catch the high energy of the Grammy-nominated band The Pop Ups as they light up the stage in a special unplugged acoustic concert with their musician friends. Experience live drawing with sound, hilarious puppets, and an epic costume party just in time for Purim! WHY WE LOVE IT: Hear favorites from their hit albums Giants of Science, Radio Jungle, and more. WANT TO GO? $18; free for children younger than 19 (includes museum admission). 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

WHEN: Through March 8: see website for showtimes WHERE: DR2 Theatre, 103 E. 15th St., Union Square AGES: All WHAT: In this original slapstick comedy, Paddington gets himself caught up in catastrophic chaos, much to the delight of audiences! WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a fun way to re-introduce a popular and lovable book and movie character to children—this time on stage. WANT TO GO? $29 and up; $5 cash at door for lap seat for children 12 months and younger. 800-745-3000. paddingtongetsinajam.com.

Hinamatsuri (Doll’s Festival) WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 1-2pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Celebrate the early-spring tradition of families wishing for the health and happiness of young girls in Japan. Each year, grand collections of beautiful hina dolls are put out on display. WHY WE LOVE IT: See an authentic collection of these traditional dolls and join in on Hinamatsuri crafts. WANT TO GO? $12; $8 members. 212-715-1275. japansociety.org.

The Paper Bag Players WHEN: Sunday, March 15, 11:30-12:30pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: See cowboys and cowgirls gallop on horseback, astronauts meet a sweet alien, and other flights of imagination in Here We Go, a joyous journey with the Paper Bag Players. WHY WE LOVE IT: Delight in a blend of new and classic sketches with original music and signature cardboard sets. WANT TO GO? $18; free for children younger than 19 (includes museum admission). 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

New York International Children’s Film Festival 2020 Purim Family Sing-Along WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 10-11am WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Join in costume for a Purim sing-along led by friends from Tkiyah and enjoy some delicious hamantashen. WHY WE LOVE IT: A photographer will be on hand to take family photos and capture some special memories. WANT TO GO? $15; $12 members; free for children younger than 1. 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Through March 15: see website for showtimes WHERE: Venues throughout NYC AGES: 3 and older WHAT: The festival will welcome over 25,000 young people, parents, and movie-lovers to explore the world without leaving NYC. Presenting the best new animation, live action, documentary, and experimental film from across the globe, you’re invited to watch, laugh, create, and explore. WHY WE LOVE IT: Expect 100+ film screenings including some unique short film programs, plus parties and red carpet events! WANT TO GO? See website for ticket prices. 212-349-0330. nyicff.org.

2020 New York City Saint Patrick’s Day Parade FREE WHEN: Tuesday, March 17, 11am-5pm WHERE: Fifth Avenue between W. 44th and E. 79th streets, Midtown/Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: The annual parade turns Fifth Avenue into a sea of green! WHY WE LOVE IT: Families can attend a ticketed High Holy Mass at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral earlier in the day, or opt to stay home and watch the parade live on nbcnewyork.com. WANT TO GO? 718-231-4400. nycstpatricksparade.org.

‘Nick Jr. Live! Move to the Music’ WHEN: March 28-29, Saturday and Sunday, 10:30am, 2pm, and 5:30pm WHERE: Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Follow Dora and her PAW co-hosts, Marshall and Rubble, as they team up with their Nick Jr. friends, live on stage together for the first time ever, in a one-of-a-kind adventure sure to excite the whole family! WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can sing, dance, clap, cheer and move to the music with friends from Bubble Guppies, PAW Patrol, Shimmer and Shine, Blue’s Clues and You, Blaze and the Monster Machines, and Top Wing. WANT TO GO? $45 and up; free for children younger than 1 (must sit on lap). 212-465-6000. msg.com.

‘Four Go Wild in Wellies’ WHEN: March 27-April 5, Friday, 4pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am and 1pm WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 3-5 WHAT: It’s time to explore the great outdoors! With all of the foliage and fun of any good forest adventure, Four Go Wild in Wellies features an inclusive dance company who reminds us that nothing is more natural than a kid’s curiosity. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will be enchanted by the colorful and active fun taking place on stage. WANT TO GO? $20. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Macy’s Flower Show FREE WHEN: March 22-April 5, daily, 10am-10pm WHERE: Macy’s Herald Square, 100-104 W. 35th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Dive into the vibrant colors of deep-sea florals and stunning marine life at the upcoming Flower Show, “Voyage to Oceanum.” Visitors to Macy’s will embark upon an exciting under-the-ocean odyssey, discovering long-lost treasures and breathtaking aquatic beauty along the way. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a highly visual way to engage little ones while you get some shopping done! WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com.

Holiday Fun Purim Masquerade! Shabbat Family Dinner WHEN: Friday, March 6, 6pm WHERE: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Sing, dance, and bring the Purim story to life with a costume parade, mask making, hamentashen, and festive celebrations! WANT TO GO? $36 and up. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

Purim Palooza Family Concert! WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 10:30am WHERE: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Join Rebecca Schoffer and a live Shababa band as they bring the story of Purim to life WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

Holi: A Festival of Colors FREE WHEN: Tuesday, March 10, 4:15pm WHERE: New York Public Library—Webster Library, 1465 York Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the arrival of spring with a story and craft. WANT TO GO? 212-288-5049. nypl.org.

Con Edison Family Day: Make Your Own Button to Support Your Cause FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 12-2pm WHERE: Morris-Jumel Mansion, 65 Jumel Terrace, Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Women’s History Month by designing a buttons to share an idea or a cause. WANT TO GO? 212-923-8008. morrisjumel.org.

Annual St. Patrick’s Open Day FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 12pm WHERE: Irish Arts Center, 553 W. 51st St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: A free day of music and dance, films and classes, demos and exhibitions, crafts, tea and soda bread, and warm Irish hospitality! WANT TO GO? 212-757-3318. irishartscenter.org.

Pi Night 2020 WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 6:30-9pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Pi with new pi-themed manipulatives, the“Pi Detector,” pi-themed refreshments, and a giant group demonstration of the meaning of pi! WANT TO GO? $35. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

BigAppleParent 31

Little Makers Weaving Inspired by Phyllis Yao WHEN: March 1-5, see website for schedule WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Take inspiration from Phyllis and make your own weavings. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Origami Balloon Interior Designs WHEN: March 2-6, Monday and Friday, 1-5pm; Thursday, 1-6pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create the inside of any room on a piece of paper, then fold that paper into a origami balloon to be inflated with a nifty viewing hole. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Tween Time: Tie Dye Fun FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 3pm WHERE: New York Public Library—Webster Library, 1465 York Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Bring an old shirt you’d like to tie dye. WANT TO GO? 212-288-5049. nypl.org.

Origami Architecture WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Lower Manhattan AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn and design your very own origami architecture! RSVP required. WANT TO GO? $5. skyscraper.org.

Fuji Instax Partner Portrait Workshops FREE WHEN: Tuesday, March 10, 3:30pm WHERE: New York Public Library—Columbus, 742 Tenth Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Students learn to use Fuji Instax cameras and make instant photos WANT TO GO? nypl.org.

Model Magic Casts WHEN: March 14-15, Saturday and Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create expressive containers out of upcycled materials, then use Model Magic to capture the container’s shape in a clay sculpture. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Spring Has Sprung!

HIBIT6 X E w – Ne Birth ges

For A

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: March 16-20, see website for schedule WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Help decorate the museum with flowers, foliage, butterflies, bees, and any other spring-related sculpture. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Saturday Family Workshops Masquerade: Japanese Matsuri FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: 6 River Terrace, Battery Park, Lower Manhattan AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Make your own Japanese-inspired mask and enjoy a dynamic drumming performance by Taiko Masala. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.

MOCACREATE: Vintage Family Albums WHEN: Saturdays, March 7 and 21, 2-5pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Chinatown AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Illustrate and then “vintage-fy” beloved family memories by aging them with tea and showcase them in a scrapbook page. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $12; $8 for children, students, and seniors. 855-955-6622. mocanyc.org.

Build a Bee Hotel FREE WHEN: Monday, March 23, 3:30pm WHERE: New York Public Library—Seward Park Branch, 192 E. Broadway, Lower East Side AGES: All WHAT: Build “bee hotels” with recycled materials for attendees to place in their favorite local gardens and parks. WANT TO GO? nypl.org.

Stan Brakhage: Colorscapes

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

www.willanacademy.com • 646-838-3990 IN-STUDIO PRIVATE LESSONS & GROUP CLASSES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE IN MIDTOWN

WHEN: March 23-27, see website for schedule WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Use light tables, acetate, and watercolor to create your own experimental film. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Paint-N-Munch Party FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 12:30-3pm WHERE: Asser Levy Recreation Center, 392 Asser Levy Place, Kips Bay AGES: 8-13 WHAT: A fun night of art as children follow along with an instructional painting session while they enjoy a delicious snack. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org. RSVP to syrvella.hall@parks.nyc.gov.

DRAW NYC at Chelsea Market FREE WHEN: Through March 29: Sundays, 11am-2pm WHERE: Chelsea Market, 75 Ninth Ave., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Drop-in and draw with your neighbors (indoors!) at Chelsea Local on the lower level of Chelsea Market. WANT TO GO? 917-463-3833. handmadecavalcade.com.

Stone Soup Cooking Class WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 2:00pm WHERE: Bernie Wohl Center, 647 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Farm Arts Collective presents a live cooking show that delights family audiences with songs, stories, and tasty recipes using farm fresh vegetables. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 seniors and students; $10 kids. 212-8736600. goddard.org. BigAppleParent 33

WHERE: Harry Belafonte 115th Street Library, 203 W. 115th St., Harlem AGES: 3-8 WHAT: In celebration of the 125th anniversary of the New York Public Library, this event will feature picture books and picture book biographies about figures related to the library. WANT TO GO? nypl.org.

Fran Manushkin Author Appearance FREE

Educational Activities

WHEN: Wednesday, March 11, 5:15pm WHERE: New York Public Library—Webster Library, 1465 York Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Acclaimed children’s author Fran Manushkin will read some stories and talk about being a writer. WANT TO GO? 212-288-5049. nypl.org.

First Signs of Spring Tour FREE

HoneyBees and the Hive! FREE

American Museum of Natural History Presents: Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation

WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 1-2pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park—Heather Garden, 741 Ft. Washington Ave., Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Join a walking tour of the Heather Garden in Fort Tryon Park with horticulturist Madeline Byrne. Learn about the plants currently in bloom and the garden’s history. WANT TO GO? 212-795-1600. whidc.org.

Saturday Family Workshops S.T.E.A.M. Dream FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: 6 River Terrace, Battery Park, Lower Manhattan AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Have fun with quirky projects from BK Robot Foundry, an interactive discovery zone, and live performance by Soul Science Lab featuring Code SCTY. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.

History Hunters: A Kid’s Life at Synagogue

WHEN: Monday, March 16, 4:30pm WHERE: New York Public Library—Countee Cullen Branch, 104 W. 136th St., Harlem AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Students will study the anatomy of the bee, create a bee using molding clay, and even observe some bees through an observation hive! WANT TO GO? 212-491-2070. nypl.org.

Deutsche Kleinkind Zeit Bilingual German/English Story Time FREE WHEN: Saturdays, March 7 and 21, 11am WHERE: Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., East Village AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy bilingual stories, songs, finger plays, and rhymes at the library’s first German/English storytime! WANT TO GO? nypl.org.

Children’s Garden Family Day FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge St., Lower East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: The past comes alive in this interactive series that takes you back in time to discover what it was like to be a child on the Lower East Side more than a century ago. Learn what it was like to go to shul as a kid in the early 1900s. WANT TO GO? $15 adults; $10 children. 212-219-0302. eldridgestreet.org.

WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 1-4pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: See how worms wiggle, touch and discover the QBG plant collection, create your own tasty and healthy trail mix, plant your own seedling in the Children’s Garden, and do a garden-wide scavenger hunt. WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Discovery Walks For Families: Harlem Meer FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Lower Manhattan AGES: 5-12 WHAT: In the spirit of March Madness, architectural features of skyscrapers will be pitted against each other and young architects will have to choose which ones will rise to the top. WANT TO GO? $5. skyscraper.org.

WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 11am WHERE: Central Park—Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, inside the park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox avenues, Central Park AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about how the area has changed over time, the plants and animals that live there today, and how the Conservancy cares for this complex ecosystem. WANT TO GO? 212-860-1370. centralparknyc.org.

New York Public Library Heritage Storytime FREE WHEN: Tuesday, March 10, 2:30pm 34

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Arch Madness

Teatro SEA’s Spanish/English Bilingual Storytelling and Puppet Series FREE WHEN: Mondays, March 2-23, 11:30am WHERE: New York Public Library—Harlem Library, 9 W. 124th St., Harlem

AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Bilingual tales come to life in a creative and interactive experience combining storytelling with puppets! WANT TO GO? 212-348-5620. nypl.org.

Bilingual Birdies Spanish Series FREE WHEN: Mondays, March 2-23, 11:30am WHERE: Mulberry Street Library, 10 Jersey St., Soho AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Bilingual Birdies will take families on a magical journey to learn words in Spanish and explore fun new themes! WANT TO GO? 212-966-3424. nypl.org.

Music and Storytime with Mandarin Seeds FREE

WHEN: Wednesdays, March 11-25, 11am WHERE: Chatham Square Library, 33 E. Broadway, Chinatown AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This is a three-week bilingual storytime through Mandarin Seeds. Children learn all about different topics in Mandarin Chinese through stories, art projects, and puppets. WANT TO GO? 212-964-6598. nypl.org.

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

Coquí Club FREE WHEN: Through May 6: First Wednesday and Saturday of each month, 9:30am and 11am WHERE: El Museo Del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Ave., East Harlem AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: With time for play, storytelling, a museum walk and art making, Coquí Club provides a fun and active way to explore El Museo and enjoy creative themes together. WANT TO GO? 212-831-7272. elmuseo.org.

Dig Drop-In WHEN: Through May 10: select Sundays, 12-3pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Kids discover a passion for ancient artifacts in the museum’s simulated archaeological dig. RSVP recommended. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $18; free for children younger than 19. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

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

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

• Weekly Sessions • Door-to-Door Transportation • State-of-the-Art Facilities • Expert Coaches • Daily Swimming

Enroll Early and SAVE!

BigAppleParent 35

‘Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friends’ WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 11am WHERE: BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 5-12 WHAT: A fun new musical based on the books Rosie Revere, Engineer; Iggy Peck, Architect; and Ada Twist Scientist by Andrea Beaty, which spotlights the STEM curriculum. WANT TO GO? $30. 212-220-1460. tribecapac.org.

‘All The Ladies’: Joanie Leeds’ Album Launch FREE

‘Drumfolk’

Theater, Concerts, & Movies Bring Ya Mamma Stand Up Comedy Show WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 2pm WHERE: The Village Lantern Comedy Club, 167 Bleecker St., Noho AGES: All WHAT: A family-friendly stand-up comedy show for all ages. Bring your mamma or anyone else in your family and have a great time! WANT TO GO? $15 and under. 2 food or drink item minimum. 718-986-9871. paulbennettcomedy.com.

Broadway Playhouse: Stephen Schwartz WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 11am WHERE: Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center, 129 W. 67th St., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Celebrate composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz with songs and scenes from his hit musicals Wicked, Godspell, and Pippin. WANT TO GO? $20. 212-501-3330. kaufmanmusiccenter.org.

Michael & The Rockness Monsters FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 11am WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium, Broadway between 62nd & 63rd streets, Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: An interactive, super galactic, funk-inspired, rock-n-roll experience for families. WANT TO GO? 212-875-5375. lincolncenter.org.

‘Treasure Island’ WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 11am and 3pm WHERE: Lenfest Center for the Arts, Columbia University, 615 W. 129th St., Morningside Heights AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Based on the classic story, Disney’s first all live-action film takes you to the high seas in search for buried treasure. WANT TO GO? $7 advance; $9 at door. 929-424-0738. lenfest. arts.columbia.edu. 36

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 2pm and 3pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate International Women’s Day, Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s birthday, and the 100th anniversary of women’s right to vote. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

‘Cheer from Chawton’: A Jane Austen Family Theatrical WHEN: Through March 15: see website for days and times WHERE: 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., East Village AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Jane Austen has prepared an entertainment for her family in which her siblings are to take part with her as performers. You may be called upon to play a part—scripts are provided! WANT TO GO? $25; $14 students and seniors. 212-780-0800. 14streety.org.

‘Drumfolk’ WHEN: Through March 15: see website for days and times WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: From hambone to hip-hop, an extraordinary ensemble of dancers and musicians takes us from West Africa to Washington, D.C., to reveal histories and rhythms that transformed America. WANT TO GO? $17 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Story Pirates & Friends Benefit Performance WHEN: Sunday, March 15, 3pm WHERE: NYU Skirball, 566 LaGuardia Place, Washington Square AGES: 5-17 WHAT: This special NYC celebration will include Story Pirates greatest hits along with fresh new musical sketch comedy based on ideas from the audience. WANT TO GO? $35. 212-998-4941. tickets.nyu.edu.

‘One Morning I Left’ WHEN: March 21-22, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Clark Studio Theater, 165 W. 65th St., 7th Floor, Upper West Side AGES: 5-8 WHAT: In this Spanish-English bilingual production, children will be invited to discover, feel, and enjoy this journey of colors, sounds, landscapes, and animals. WANT TO GO? $25; $18 members. 212-875-5375. lincolncenter.org.

Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers: ‘Everybody Loves Pirates’ WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: A trio of puppeteers presents a zany tale on the high seas. WANT TO GO? $14-17. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

‘Ali Baba & the 40 Thieves’ WHEN: March 28-29, Saturday and Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: 3-12 WHAT: The poor woodcutter opens a mountain and finds treasure. WANT TO GO? $20 adults; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaterny.com.

Total Vocal with Deke Sharon WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 2pm WHERE: Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage, Carnegie Hall, 881 7th Ave., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Music from Pitch Perfect, Disney classics, American pop, and more. WANT TO GO? $20 and up. 212-707-8566. carnegiehall.org.

‘Don’t Break the Rules’ WHEN: Saturdays, March 7-April 4, 1:30pm and 3pm; see website for additional performances WHERE: Magnet Theater, 254 W. 29th St., Chelsea AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Voice-actors as they create characters based on audience suggestion WANT TO GO? $8. magnettheater.com.

NYC Children’s Theater Presents ‘Taste The Clouds’ WHEN: Through April 26: Sundays, 10am and 12pm WHERE: The Pete at The Flea, 20 Thomas St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: A young girl learns to harness her imagination and uses her senses to better understand the world WANT TO GO? $20. 212-226-0051. nycchildrenstheater.org.

‘The Wizard of Oz’: A Jazz Musical for All Ages

Get Active! Japanese Folk Dancing WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 2:30-4pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Learn, create, and dance with the Hanagasa Kai group WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 2. 212-832-1155. japansociety.org.

Teen Fitness Challenge FREE WHEN: Friday, March 6, 4-6pm WHERE: Highbridge Recreation Center, 2301 Amsterdam Avenue at W. 173rd Street, Washington Heights AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Test your endurance and stamina WANT TO GO? nyc.gov.

Family Wellness Day FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 11am-2pm WHERE: Highbridge Recreation Center, 2301 Amsterdam Ave., Washington Heights AGES: All WHAT: A monthly day of fitness and fun in the park for the family! WANT TO GO? nyc.gov.

Marvel Madness Family Disco! WHEN: Sunday, March 22, 1-5pm WHERE: The Venue, 2284 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd., Harlem AGES: 3-5, 5-8, adult WHAT: Families can party to a DJ playing a mix of genres WANT TO GO? $12 general admission, $40 family of 4, $15 at door. 201-565-2564. kidsdancerevolution.com.

Watson Adventures’ Grand Central Scramble Family Scavenger Hunt WHEN: Saturdays, March 7 and 28, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Grand Central Terminal, 89 E. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Work together to uncover the secrets of the train station. WANT TO GO? $17.50-$21.50. 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.

The 17th Annual Colon Cancer Challenge

WHEN: Through June 20: see website for days and times WHERE: Harlem Rep/Tato Laviera Theatre, 240 E. 123rd St., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: With its timeless score, this show is a magical experience. WANT TO GO? $10 general admission; $20 premium seating. 212868-4444. wizardofozjazzmusical.com.

WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 8:30am-1pm WHERE: Icahn Stadium Randall’s Island, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Raise public awareness and contribute to the fight WANT TO GO? $15-$50. 914-305-6674. coloncancerfoundation.org.

‘Chalk’

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

WHEN: Through Aug. 29: see website for showtimes WHERE: The Kraine Theater, 85 E. 4th St., East Village AGES: All WHAT: A charismatic clown discovers magic chalk that makes everything he draws come to life WANT TO GO? $15; $12 parent with child; $5 children younger than 13. 917-438-9223. frigid.nyc.

WHEN: Through Sept. 10, second Saturday of each month, 10am-3pm WHERE: Highbridge Park, W. 174th Street and Amsterdam Ave., Washington Heights/Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Learn what it takes to build, and ride the most progressive urban bike park in America. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org. BigAppleParent 37

AGES: All WHAT: Visitors of all ages will explore Native scientific discoveries and inventions so ingenious many continue to affect the modern world. WANT TO GO? 212-514-3700. americanindian.si.edu.

Super Sábado! Family Day at El Museo del Barrio FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 12-5pm WHERE: El Museo Del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Ave., East Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a day of art workshops, storytelling, concerts, and more, all showcasing traditions, cultural expressions, and the latest in Latino art. WANT TO GO? 212-831-7272. elmuseo.org.

Watson Adventures Wizard School Scavenger Hunt for Harry Potter Fans Les Ballet Afrik: ‘New York is Burning’ by Omari Wiles

Museums & Exhibits City Symphonies WHEN: March 5-7, Thursday, 1:50-6pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Use your voice and the instruments in the sound booth to record sound effects and create your own city symphony! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Tours for Immigrant Families FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Bring your family to the museum for a free tour and activities! WANT TO GO? 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

Living History: Meet Sylvia Rivera WHEN: March 7-8, Saturday and Sunday, 12-4pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Listen as Sylvia reflects on Stonewall, witness a retelling of one of her speeches, and then ask your very own questions about her life. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $22 adults; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

Family Afternoon: Stories of the Sahara WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 1-4pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: The theme for hands-on family fun is Stories of the Sahara. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $25 adults; free for children younger than 13. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

imagiNATIONS Activity Center FREE WHEN: Through March 16: daily, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: National Museum of the American Indian, 1 Bowling Green, Lower Manhattan 38

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Search for art that echoes characters in the Harry Potter books. WANT TO GO? $31-$39 (includes museum admission). 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.

Vida Americana Family Day WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 10:30am-3pm WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: All WHAT: Create murals with an artist, take fun family pictures, and explore the museum. All activities will be conducted in both Spanish and English. WANT TO GO? $25; free for anyone younger than 19. 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

Brain Awareness Weekend WHEN: March 21-22, Saturday and Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the wonders of the brain and learn how it evolved in animals to make sense of surroundings and guide behaviors. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $23; $13 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

Living History: March with the Suffragists! WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 12-4pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Join historical interpreters as they make signs, chant, and encourage men to vote “yes” on women’s suffrage. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $22 adults; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

Les Ballet Afrik: ‘New York is Burning’ by Omari Wiles WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 7:30pm WHERE: The Solomon R Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: New York is Burning will bring the ballroom to the Guggenheim and feature AfrikFusion, a style that fuses traditional

WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 2-4pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Tonya Lee Stone talks about her book, which tells the story of brave women like Jerrie Cobb, one of the top pilots in the U.S. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $22 adults; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-8733400. nyhistory.org.

Women of the Revolutionary War WHEN: March 1-29, Saturdays, 1pm and 2pm; Sundays, 1pm WHERE: Fraunces Tavern Museum, 54 Pearl St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Explore the stories including patriotic women fighting for independence and African American and Native American WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $7 adults, $4 children ages 6-17, free for children younger than 6. frauncestavernmuseum.org.

Family Art Workshops: Art as Activism WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays, March 7-29, 10:30am and 2pm WHERE: The Museum of Modern Art, 11 W. 53rd St., Midtown AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Learn about art that reacts to the times we live in and create artworks that send a message. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $25; free for children younger than 17. 212-708-9805. moma.org.

addle . Retreats . doTE d Up P n a t S RR le.

tial Oils ssen AE

Reading into History Family Book Club: ‘Almost Astronauts’

Holistic Li fest y

African dances and Afrobeat styles with house dance and vogue. WANT TO GO? $40-45. 646-765-4773. guggenheim.org.

We are called “the best camp ever” year after year by the campers themselves.

Paddleboard (SUP) / Yoga Empowerment CamPS • Four day adventures from late June through Labor Day, includes four hours of daily activity on land and water • Stand up paddleboard (SUP) skills to be safe in and on the water. • Yoga and Empowerment Camps will also teach kids much more than how to paddleboard. • Taught by certified lifeguards and certified yoga instructors • Movement and mindfulness will also be explored- both on and off the boards, while practicing yoga and learning to paddle

917 301 6919 www.jbyoga.com

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

The Nature of Color WHEN: March 9-31, see website for days and times WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Explore the world of color in this immersive and interactive exhibit! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $23 adults; $13 children. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

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

imagiNATIONS Activity Center FREE WHEN: Through June 7: daily, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: National Museum of the American Indian, 1 Bowling Green, Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Through a variety of activities, visitors can explore Native scientific discoveries, many of which continue to affect the world today. WANT TO GO? 212-514-3700. americanindian.si.edu.

Friday Virtuous Journeys WHEN: Through June 26: Fridays, 3:30pm WHERE: Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling, 898 St. Nicholas Ave., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy stories filled with courage, humility, and love. WANT TO GO? $7 adults; $4 children ages 9-17; free for children younger than 9. 212-335-0004. sugarhillmuseum.org. BigAppleParent 39

Special Needs CMS Kids: Who is Brahms? WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 11am and 3pm WHERE: Daniel And Joanna S. Rose Studio, 165 W. 65th St., 10th Floor, Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: These performances are presented in a judgment-free environment, and are less formal and more supportive of sensory, communication, movement, and learning needs. WANT TO GO? $25. 212-875-5788. chambermusicsociety.org.

Friday Night Fun for Kids with Disabilities & Special Needs FREE WHEN: Friday, March 13, 3:30-6pm WHERE: Chatham Square Library, 33 E. Broadway, Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: Play video games and board games, enjoy free snacks, program robots, create artwork, enjoy a sensory storytime, and more. WANT TO GO? 212-964-6598. nypl.org.

Stripes stART for Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder WHEN: Saturdays, March 14 and 28, 9:30-10:45am WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Kids can explore different art mediums through sensory experiences, music, and movement activities. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

WORTH LEAVING THE CITY The Peking Acrobats

WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 3pm and 7:30pm WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown, NJ AGES: All WHAT: The Peking Acrobats® redefine your perceptions of Chinese acrobatics as they push the limits of human ability, defying gravity with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility and control. WANT TO GO? $19-$39. 973-539-8008. mayoarts.org.

Laurie Berkner Greatest Hits Solo Tour

WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 11am WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill, Westchester County AGES: All WHAT: See award-winning children’s musician Laurie Berkner on her tour of greatest hits! WANT TO GO? $25-$35. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

Pancake Brunch and Maple Sugaring

Join

NYMetroParents

Summer Fun 2020

Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions German and Spanish language immersion for preschoolers and school-age children Open to students from other schools www.pusteblumenyc.org and receive special notices. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

Join

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

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents 40

5 Events

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 10:30am-1pm WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy pancakes with fresh maple syrup, learn how to identify maple trees, and visit Tenafly’s tapped tree to see how sap is collect. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 members. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

‘Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure: Dinosaurs of the Deep’

WHEN: Monday, March 23, 11am and 6pm WHERE: The Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre, Nassau County AGES: 5 and younger, adult WHAT: Jump in and explore the depths of the prehistoric oceans in this immersive family-friendly experience! WANT TO GO? $25-$30. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.com.

Irish Family Day

WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 1-3pm WHERE: Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, Suffolk County AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a performance from the Mulvihill-Lynch Studio of Irish Dance, learn about the costumes and dances, and take a tour of the Walt Whitman Birthplace! WANT TO GO? $9 children; free for chaperones.

outing

Building Brainpower The Children’s Museum of Manhattan’s new exhibit uses super-powered pigeons to expand kids’ minds By Natasha D’Anna, @Twindollicious

he Children’s Museum of Manhattan’s new mind-stretching, interactive exhibit Superpowered Metropolis: Early Learning City™, which opened Feb. 14, encourages kids ages 1-6 to expand their executive functioning skills. Children are the heroes in a playful, 1,500-foot comic book version of New York City (the Metropolis) in which three genius pigeon mascots (Zip, Zap, and Zoom) help them improve their self-control, mental flexibility, and working memory (their superpowers).

The Exhibit The Metropolis has eight stationary interactive installations, including Baby Grand Central Station, a mini learning hub for ages 2 and younger, which has climb-on trains, a starry sky, and sensory stations. The two-story Treehouse Headquarters is equipped with a map, telescope, periscope, and slide—and an amazing view! The Supercharged NYC Train Table is a colorful, multi-level representation of the NYC transportation system including tracks, tunnels, and waterways. In the Musical Subway Car, handmade musical instruments mimic the sounds of the subways. Colorful flute-shaped tubes whisk scarves through the air at the Whimsical Wind Blowing Fountain, and the Brain Building Games Station features three games, that NYU’s Create Lab designed to train kids’ inhibition, mental flexibility, and memory.

Zip, Zap, & Zoom The friendly pigeon mascots who guide kids through this experience of learning are Zip, Zap, and Zoom. Zip is a calm coach

who encourages “power pauses” or self-restraint, following directions, and taking turns. Zap is a witty thinker who is always at the ready and skillfully organizes and sorts information. Zoom is a curious inventor who can creatively solve problems.

Kids Favorites Don’t miss the superpowered phone booth where your little one can receive a call from Zip, Zap, and Zoom. Also, make sure you drive the Pigeon Mobile—you’ll experience the sounds and smells of NYC while cruising around.

Know Before You Go Did you know your child’s brain grows the fastest from birth through age 5!? You can pick up tips like this at every installation by choosing a card from the Zoom, Zip, or Zap mission. You can also find useful tips about the brain on VROOM. (Check out this app before you go to get a sense of the exhibit’s mission). It can also help you have a conversation with your child, so she knows what to expect when you visit. Finally, it’s best to wear socks and comfortable clothing because there are so many opportunities to climb structures and explore.

Tips for Getting There Address: The Tisch Building, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side Hours: Tuesday-Friday and Sunday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 1-7pm; Members-only hours: Wednesday, 9-10am and Sunday, 9-10am Admission: $15; $12 seniors and visitors with disabilities; free for children younger than 1 More Info: 212-721-1223; cmom.org

BigAppleParent 41

Chocolations Mamaroneck chocolations.com

FunFuzion @ New Roc City New Rochelle funfuziononline.com

Great Play of Scarsdale Scarsdale greatplay.com/scarsdale

Hommocks Park Ice Rink Larchmont hommocksparkicerink.org

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Manhattan intrepidmuseum.org

Penny Lane Dance Academy Somers pennylanedance.com

l l

Shooting Star Parties Inc. Westchester County shootingstarparties.com

Sky Zone Trampoline Park New Rochelle skyzone.com/newrochelle

Sportime USA Elmsford sportimeusa.com

Stepping Stones Museum for Children Norwalk, CT steppingstonesmuseum.org

The Little Gym Scarsdale and Manhattan thelittlegym.com

The Play Group Theatre White Plains playgroup.org The Rock Club New Rochelle climbrockclub.com

Accessible/ Sensory-Friendly

Accomodate Dietary Restrictions

Artistree Performing Arts Mamaroneck artistreearts.com

Musical Munchkins Tuckahoe musicalmunchkins.com

Twisted Creations Bubble & Balloons Serving NY, NJ, and CT twistedcreations.net

l l

UFC Gym Mamaroneck Mamaroneck ufcgym.com

Westchester Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum Rye discoverwcm.org

Westchester Gymnastics & Cheer Hawthorne westchestergymnastics.net

Atendee Parents Can Stay

Goodie Bags

Bring Your Own Food

Set Up & Clean Up

Amy Rosen Cooking By Design Larchmont amyrosencookingbydesign.com

Changing Tables in Bathrooms

Food & Cake

Invites & Thank You Notes

Private Party Room

Entertainment

Plates, Cups, & Utensils

A-GAME SPORTS New Rochelle agamesports.net

Party Place

Party Central

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

l l

birthday parties

Take a Birthday Breather Don’t get caught up in the hype—it is possible to throw a stress-free kid’s party! By Kirsten Clodfelter

ove over Pinterest parties. It’s time to take a break from the perfectly curated child’s birthday spectacular. While there’s nothing wrong with themes or crafting, not everyone wants to stay up until 2am making party favors and Instagram-able snack spreads. All kids deserve to be celebrated, yes, but hear us out: Birthdays can be special, magical, and unforgettable without requiring a Cricut machine. Sometimes it’s just fine to throw a low-key party that doesn’t break the bank. We asked experts for their favorite ways to minimize the stress.

Trash your schedule.

and throw a glow-in-the-dark dance party. Old school classics such as musical chairs and heads-up-seven-up are also great go-to games.

Do what they love. “Overall,”Jackson says,“way too much energy goes into trying to create unique experiences.” Instead, she suggests starting with something a child loves and building the party around that. For example, if the child is a sports lover, consider an afternoon of soccer at a sports complex, bouncing at a trampoline park, or a friendly mini-golf competition. You can also bring in some help. Hire an entertainer who can bring in exotic animals or science experiments for a couple of hours of birthday learning and fun.

Dakota Jackson, a special events planner for D&S Events in Virginia, which she runs part-time with her wife, says: go rogue. “The biggest unnecessary thing parents stress about is keeping a strict schedule. Kids won’t necessarily remember what they did, but they’ll remember how they felt. If everyone seems to be enjoying an activity, don’t force the group to start the next thing you planned. And if something isn’t a hit, don’t be afraid to move on quicker than expected.”

Go for an experience.

Go low-tech. Like, really low.

Set the tone.

“Younger kids are happy to just be in a room with other kids! If you blow up some balloons and tell them to keep the balloon in the air, they’ll play for a long time,” says Jessica Ashley, founder and lead event designer at Jessica Ashley Events in Virginia. Another easy crowd-pleaser: hand out glow sticks, kill the lights,

Most importantly, Ashley says, parents should take a breather. “Kids want to share in the joy with their parents. If Mom or Dad is stressed out, kids can totally sense that.” Don’t let the goal of a “perfect party” get in the way of the whole point of the day— celebrating your child in a way that’s fun and happy for them.

Rather than hosting a party, have your child invite one or two friends out for a special event, like a day at an amusement park, an overnight camping trip, or to see a performance or sporting event. Not only does this give parents a pass on party planning, but “a smaller group of friends might create more intense memories together,” Jackson says.

Kirsten Clodfelter is a Midwest-based freelance writer, the co-founder of Rise Marketing, Inc., and a mom of three. 106 East 86th Street 3rd Floor • New York, NY 10028 • 646.831.9727 globaldancenyc.com • IG: @global_dance_nyc • FB: Facebook.com/GlobalDanceNYC

GLOBAL DANCE NYC June 22–June26

www.DramaZoneNyc.com Award-Winning DramaZone® Broadway Camp for Rising Stars 2020

JULY 13–17 for 6-10 yrs.

Themes include: Frozen, Mary Poppins, Aladdin, and More.

for the coolest kids in town!

Full day, half day, & early drop-off options available. Ages 6–9/10–13 Dance • vocals • acting • yoga • crafts • cooking • & more! In-studio performance

917-690-0789 BigAppleParent 43

tech for parents

Pic Tips 8 expert recommendations for taking better photos of your children By Katelin Walling

e always have a camera in our hands these days, which makes it super easy to snap social mediadestined pics of our kids when they’re doing something cute, funny, or outrageous. But what about when you want to take professional-looking photos to share with Grandma and Grandpa, print for your gallery wall, or add to your photo album? Sarah Merians is CEO and founder of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company, an NYC-based boutique photography studio that specializes in wedding, mitzvah, child, and family photography. Here, she shares eight tips to help you take better photos of your children.

Make it fun!

photos of your child. (And make sure there’s nothing in the background that looks like it’s coming out of his head!) Choose a background that will make the child stand out, Merians suggests, and stay away from darker backgrounds, which tend to go black in pictures.

Stand back to capture candids. If you want to snap a shot of your child living in the moment (i.e. reading, playing, having fun with her friends), stand just outside the doorway or in another room to take the photo. Then you can zoom in and crop the photo to focus on your child. That way, she isn’t aware you’re there.

There’s nothing better than capturing your child’s genuine smile or catching him mid-laugh full of personality. So, Merians recommends making the experience more playful and less like a posed, portrait experience. Tickle your child, have her dance or jump to get the sillies flowing, play peekaboo, make silly noises (we guarantee fart sounds will unleash the giggles!), and tell jokes.

Live in the moment a little more.

Avoid taking photos in the middle of the day outside.

Give the camera to your child.

Digital cameras and smartphones are really sensitive to light, so taking photos in low-light situations (either earlier or later in the day) is better than at high noon or in broad light.

Keep the light on the subject’s face. “I’m forever watching people with their iPhones in a restaurant or at a party and they’re standing against the window taking a picture, and I know the photo isn’t going to be good,” says Merians, who has been a photographer for more than 30 years. That’s why she recommends treating the light in the environment like a flash—keeping the light behind you.

Look for light, simple backgrounds. While there is a time and place for photos in the latest Instagram pop-up, stick to clean, simple, and light backgrounds for classic

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

With social media, it’s (unfortunately) easy to compare yourself and what you’re doing with your kids to others’ curated feeds. Merians urges parents to occasionally put the camera down: “I think it’s important to be with your children and enjoy them and interact with them and capture moments—just not all the time.”

While you’re in an environment where your phone or camera is less likely to break if dropped (on carpeting) and your child is old enough, take a moment to teach him how to snap a photo of you. “It becomes a shared moment, a moment of education, and not all about what Mom and Dad want but letting the child have a voice and a vision as well,” Merians says. “They might find they enjoy having their picture taken that much more if they understand it.” And who knows, you might just have a budding photographer on your hands!

Be in more photos with your kids. Whether you’re on vacation or you’re doing something really cool with your child near home, ask someone in your vicinity to take a picture of you together. And if you see another parent snapping pics of their kids, volunteer to be their photographer.

kids’ life

Thumb Sucking 101 How to handle this common childhood habit—and tips to get your child to stop By Jaimie Seaton

f your baby or toddler is a dedicated thumb sucker, don’t worry— it’s perfectly normal. Rooting and sucking are natural reflexes for babies, and sucking a finger, thumb, or even a toe is comforting. In fact—as you may know from your ultrasound photos—many babies begin thumb sucking in the womb, and it’s not uncommon for children to continue the habit well past their toddler years.

Pros and Cons Babies will often turn to thumb sucking if they are unhappy, hungry, or tired. That’s a good thing; we want our children to learn to self-soothe. And a 2016 study published in the journal Pediatrics found that children who sucked their thumb or bit their nails were less likely to develop allergies. “Even when the habit lingers past infancy, thumb-sucking is rarely something to be concerned about. It doesn’t indicate that a child has emotional problems or that he will still be sucking his finger when he’s a teenager,” says Sabine Hack, M.D., assistant professor of psychiatry at New York University School of Medicine. However, after the age of 5, thumb sucking can be detrimental to mouth and teeth development, according to Larissa Davids, D.D.S., owner of Rego Park Orthodontics. And it can lead to bite problems, including an anterior open bite (the teeth not coming together correctly) or a cross bite, and speech impediments.

When and How to Intervene Most children stop sucking their thumb by the age of 3 or 4, or they’ll suck only in times of stress or when going to sleep. There’s no cause for concern until the adult teeth start coming in, at about the age of 6. If your child is still thumb sucking at 5 years, that’s the time to address the issue. The Mt. Sinai Hospital website cautions parents against scolding or punishing their child for thumb sucking. After all, she’s doing it because it’s soothing and comforting, and nagging may actually ingrain the habit. Instead, Dr. Davids recommends talking to your child about the issue. It may be he is embarrassed and will welcome your assistance. Take a loving, positive approach, offering praise when he doesn’t suck. Beyond giving positive reinforcement, there are various methods you can employ to help your child.

• P ut her down for a nap earlier than usual, when you first begin to see her getting sleepy. • Offer a stuffed animal as a substitute. • T alk to your child about his frustrations or fears and help identify triggers for thumb sucking. • Use gentle reminders. • Keep her hands busy with fun activities. • Don’t ever ridicule or shame him.

What About Pacifiers? Some parents use pacifiers to wean their children from their thumbs. There’s good and bad on this front, too. Pacifiers at naptime and bedtime can reduce the risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, according to Mt. Sinai’s website, because a pacifier might allow a baby’s airway to open further. It might also prevent her from falling into a deep sleep. (If the baby is breastfeeding, it’s best to wait until he’s 1 month old before giving him a pacifier.) Just as with the thumb, however, children may be attached to their “binky” long after they’ve left the nursery. Again, pacifiers can have a detrimental effect on oral development, so parents will want to break the habit by the time the child is 5, if not before. (Most children give up their pacifiers by 2 to 4 years old.)

When to Seek Professional Help Thumb sucking can be a difficult habit to break. If your child is resistant to your efforts, you may want to have your pediatrician or dentist speak to her, Dr. Davids says. Sometimes a message is better received when it doesn’t come from mom or dad. A medical professional can also advise you on using other methods, including putting a bandage or bitter nail polish on the thumb. If you choose the latter, be sure it’s a non-toxic substance that is safe for consumption. Above all, relax. If you’re stressed about your child’s thumb sucking, he will be too. Rest assured, she’ll eventually break the habit on her own.

Jaimie Seaton has been a journalist for more than 20 years and is the former Thailand correspondent for Newsweek. Her work on divorce, parenting, dating, and a wide range of topics has been featured in the Washington Post, the Guardian, Glamour, and numerous other publications.

BigAppleParent 45

social media

“You’re Canceled!” What you need to know about the current craze By Melissa Wickes

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

ver the last few years, “canceling” has come up within the world of celebrities—from the #TaylorSwiftisOverParty to Louis C.K.’s banishment. But what does this really mean? To cancel is to call out a behavior—an offensive remark or an unforgiveable action—and to reject the person responsible through blocking, unfollowing, and even verbally targeting on social media platforms, according to Lizzy Duffy, senior social strategist at Sparkloft Media, a social media creative agency. Unfortunately, cancel culture is no longer just for famous people. It has made its way into classrooms and teen peer groups. And now parents are concerned it’s affecting their kids.

When Kids Cancel When Logan Paul, a 24-year-old YouTuber with 20.2 million subscribers, published a video that included footage of a suicide victim, people banded together to “cancel” him, which in turn pressured not only YouTube but the advertisers and sponsors he worked with to take action against him. Paul was removed from Google’s Preferred, the company’s premier advertising platform, which prevented him from monetizing his YouTube videos. Teens and kids are now applying this practice to their peer groups, Duffy says. While the phrase “you’re canceled” can be a joke between friends, some teens are actually boycotting classmates, and sometimes over a personal opinion. “All the friends I had through middle school completely cut me off,” a high schooler nicknamed “L” told The New York Times. “Ignored me,

blocked me on everything, would not look at me.” When L asked a former friend why she had been isolated, she was told she was “a mooch, annoying and petty, and an emotional leech who was thirsty for validation.” When to cancel someone is an arbitrary and personal decision. As Arielle Rokhsar, a junior at The Wheatley School in Old Westbury, explains: “There is no definite line between what actions allow for one to be canceled and for one to be spared, it all depends on how the audience interprets it.” And values are constantly evolving. Ali Bhalloo, Arielle’s classmate, argues the “views that we have today may be considered wrong in the future. Opinions change with time. In my opinion, it is crucial that we cancel cancel culture.”

Psychological Impact Like bullying, canceling can lead to kids being isolated and ostracized, says Rebecca Sinclair, Ph.D., child and adolescent psychologist and director of psychological services at Brooklyn Minds, a mental health practice with locations in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Manhasset. “Children and adolescents are much more vulnerable than adults, and isolation can affect depressive moods, anxiety, impulsive behavior, and use of substances.” Plus, cancelation can make individuals afraid to stand up for themselves or voice an opinion, says Alexandra Hamlet, Psy.D., clinical psychologist in the Mood Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute, a nonprofit that helps children and families with mental health and learning disorders. She says that while there are instances when avoidance can be appropriate—such as when someone is racist or harassing—it’s always better to first have a discussion with the individual and help him understand that what was said is not okay. “A question that should be asked is, ‘does the person really deserve the removal of support in such a reactive way for saying one thing that might have been disagreed with?’” Dr. Hamlet says.

reason behind it. A confrontation would at least provide them with an opportunity to apologize, learn, and grow, Duffy says. Dr. Sinclair also points out that the confusion caused by social isolation often causes teens to become defensive and cling onto the opinion or belief that led to the cancellation in the first place.

What is the parent’s role? Like any other difficult conversation with your adolescent, it is important to understand where your child is coming from. “Cancel culture might make the parent really uncomfortable and alert them in a hyper-vigilant way, but it is important to hear from the kids what their emotion and experience is, whether it’s worry, sadness, or anger,” Dr. Sinclair says. “There can be a difference between validating a child’s emotion and agreeing with their behaviors. You can validate how frustrated they are and how confused they are without agreeing that canceling someone is the right thing.” Also, as Duffy points out, cancel culture makes it difficult for adolescents to have transparent conversations about things they disagree about, which is an important life skill. Dr. Hamlet suggests parents focus on teaching their child what it means to understand someone else’s point of view and that settling differences doesn’t have to mean blocking someone out of your life or unfollowing them on social media.

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

APRIL 28 –MAY 1, 2020 WYNDHAM NEW YORKER HOTEL

17TH ANNUAL

The Fine Line A community that unites against someone who has done something unforgivable can be empowering. It can also make Over 100 To register go to: kids think twice before posting or announcing potentially Speakers offensive views. www.YoungChildExpo.com More than 80 But there’s a negative too. “It’s balancing this fine line or call 212-787-9700, ext. 333 Conference Sessions because we want to give our youth and teens the opportunity Early Bird & Group Discounts Available and power to call [them] out when there are issues in teen Full Day & Half Day Workshops behavior,” Dr. Sinclair points out. “The issue is, [cancelation] Presented by doesn’t leave opportunity for improvement.” 40 Exhibitors & Over 1000 Attendees People—especially kids—make mistakes. Kids have not had as many experiences to learn from as adults have. Learning from failures allows adolescents to build up social skills, develop a sense of self, and develop a sense of relationships, 2020_YCE_NYMP_1.6th ad.v1.indd 1 Saving money on a10/15/19 2:08 PM LOOKING FOR Dr. Sinclair says. New York City family day is easy! In 2019, President Barack Obama disparaged the concept of Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts canceling someone in an interview about youth activism. “The for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, world is messy. There are ambiguities,” he said. “People who stores and more. do really good stuff have flaws. People who you are fighting Great New York deals, savings, may love their kids and share certain things with you.” special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just And kids are often not told they’ve been canceled, or the

GREAT

DEALS?

a click of the mouse.

BigAppleParent 47

openHOUSES 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 Join us for an open house March 8, April 4, or May 3 from 11am-2pm (Upper East Side), and March 3, April 7, or May 5 from 6-7pm (Battery Park City).

Ballet Academy East

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

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex

West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Join us for The Field House (Pier 62) open house March 28 from 12:30-2:30pm and The Golf Club (Pier 59) Performance Golf Camp open house on April 25, from 12-2pm.

Dwight School

291 Central Park West 212-724-6360 dwight.edu/admissions to register for an open house admissions@dwight.edu Join us for an open house (ages 4-5) on March 7 and April 4, 10am-1pm, 144 Riverside Blvd., ages 6-12 on March 6 and April 3, 4-7pm, 2116 First Ave.

International Academy of New York

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

JCC Manhattan Summer Camps - Camp Settoga

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

NORY

25 Pine St. 330 E. 45th St., Midtown East 120 W. 76th St., Upper West Side 914-996-6607 nory.co nory.co/summer hello@nory.co An open house will be held at Calhoun School on March 3, April 13, and May 8 from 5-6:30pm. RSVP by emailing matt@nory.co.

YMCA Summer Camps

ymcanyc.org/camp rho@ymcanyc.org Visit any YMCA location in NYC for Summer Camp Open House to learn about camps, meet staff, and ask questions, Saturdays, March 21, April 18, May 16, or June 6 from 10am-3pm.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS Judy Goldstein M.D.

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

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE Affinity Health Plan

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

LEGAL SERVICES Fersch LLC

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

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

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

SPECIAL NEEDS The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball

488 Madison Ave., Suite 1120, Midtown East 212-223-4100 118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 1220, Forest Hills 718-520-7754 ballnyelderlaw.com With more than 25 years of experience The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball focuses on elder law issues, matters affecting the developmentally disabled of all ages, and trust and estate planning options including will preparation and estate administration.

TUTORS & TEST PREP Eye Level Manhattan

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

Successful Students NYC

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

ad index acrobatics / gymnastics

Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East

health

Little Gym ...................................................... 51

Village and Upper East Side ............................ 27

Hunter Syndrome............................................ 23

birthday / party services

Global Dance ................................................. 43

Chelsea Piers..................................................... 8

Harlem School of the Arts............................... 33

Little Gym ...................................................... 51

Play On! Studios ............................................ 39

Maker-State ................................................... 19

Steps on Broadway ........................................ 13

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

Treebath ........................................................ 32 Willan Academy of Music .............................. 33

camps

YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 28

music Willan Academy of Music .............................. 33

performing arts / acting Atlantic Acting School....................................... 5 DramaZone .................................................... 43

92nd St. Y ..................................................... 21 Asphalt Green................................................... 2

dance

Harlem School of the Arts............................... 33

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

Bold Arts ........................................................ 26

Play On! Studios ............................................ 39

Bold Arts ........................................................ 26

DramaZone .................................................... 43

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

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

Global Dance ................................................. 43

Camp Settoga................................................... 7

Steps on Broadway ........................................ 13

play spaces Urban Air Adventure Park............................... 52

Chelsea Piers..................................................... 8 China Institute ............................................... 39

developmental

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNALC .......... 35

Hunter Syndrome............................................ 23

research

Collina Italiana ............................................... 28

MWS Student Camps ..................................... 25

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

Downtown Day Camps................................... 25 DramaZone .................................................... 43 Future Stars ................................................... 35 Global Dance ................................................. 43 Harlem School of the Arts............................... 33 iD Tech Camps................................................ 15 JBYOGA Holistic Lifestyle. Stand Up Paddle.... 39 Little Gym ...................................................... 51

NORY............................................................. 27 Pusteblume International School .................... 40

education Boston Leadership Institute............................. 21 China Institute ............................................... 39 Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East Village and Upper East Side ............................ 27

special events Young Child Expo .......................................... 47

special needs Hunter Syndrome............................................ 23 Young Child Expo .......................................... 47

Gateway School The ...................................... 26

Maker-State ................................................... 19

International Academy of New York ............... 14

sports

MWS Student Camps ..................................... 25

Maker-State ................................................... 19

92nd St. Y ..................................................... 21

NORY............................................................. 27

MWS Student Camps ..................................... 25

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

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

New York French American Charter School .... 28

Camp Settoga................................................... 7

Play On! Studios ............................................ 39

NORY............................................................. 27

Chelsea Piers..................................................... 8

Pusteblume International School .................... 40

Downtown Day Camps................................... 25

Sportime ........................................................ 15

The Ecole........................................................ 17

Steps on Broadway ........................................ 13

Treebath ........................................................ 32

The Ecole........................................................ 17

Wetherby-Pembridge School .......................... 23

Treebath ........................................................ 32

Zeta Charter Schools....................................... 19

Willan Academy of Music .............................. 33 YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 28

family entertainment / events / outings Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum of Manhattan .................. 32

classes

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

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

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

Future Stars ................................................... 35 JBYOGA Holistic Lifestyle. Stand Up Paddle.... 39 YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 28

theater Atlantic Acting School....................................... 5 Tribeca Performing Arts Center ...................... 28

tutors

Bold Arts ........................................................ 26 China Institute ............................................... 39

fitness

Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East

Collina Italiana ............................................... 28

JBYOGA Holistic Lifestyle. Stand Up Paddle.... 39

Village and Upper East Side ............................ 27

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

last word

What is your darkest parenting secret?

“I have lost track of how much I have been drinking in the evenings when I’m home alone with my kids, and I realized I shouldn’t drive if there is an emergency.” —Carol Davis, Manhattan

“I sometimes pretend I’m going to a meeting when I hire a babysitter and then I just drive around and sit in my car—just to get away for a while.” —Brent Minsky, Queens Whenever my twin toddlers are having ‘a moment,’ I sit on the floor and start practicing yoga breathing exercises in front of them. This is something I really started doing to help myself get through the moment, but it actually works in reverse and helps calm and center them too.” —Lauren Carasso (@LaurenCarasso), Westchester

“My almost-4-year-old was not feeling well over the weekend, and while I hate to see my baby sick, I secretly love that she ‘needs’ me again, and will curl up, cuddle, and fall asleep in my arms.”

kle “After I buc their my kids in car seats, I at treasure th t, small, quie lk carefree wa car around the to the front ea seat. It’s lik on.” mini vacati

“When I play catch

with my son, and he drops a few easy balls, I begin quietly muttering things like, ‘Holy crap that is just terrible’ or ‘Wow you really can’t catch, can you?’ ‘Nice try!’ I yell.” —Michael Moshan, Westchester

“

thington —Andrea Wor Westchester t), ha tc (@babygo

”

—Brook Gesser, Brooklyn

—Kathleen Hurley (@letsbemomfriends), Long Island

Connect with us

facebook.com/nymetroparents

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

I have tried, on multiple occasions throughout the years, to convince my principled vegetarian daughter to just drop it already and start eating meat again.

@nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

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

Receive (1) wristband, good for access to Ultimate Attractions. Cost $24.99 plus tax. May not be combined with any other offers, coupons, specials, birthday parties or special events. Age and Height restrictions may apply. Expires 3/31/2020 Use Code “BAP2019”

Valid for up to 4-people. Each jumper will receive (1) wristband, good for Ultimate Access, (1) bottled waters. Cannot be split. Cost $89.99 plus tax. May not be combined with any other offers, coupons, specials, birthday parties or special events. Age and Height restrictions may apply. Expires 3/31/2020 Use Code “BAP2019”

Receive $25 off any party package. Must book party using code “BAP2019” by 3/31/2020. (We are happy to book it over the phone). Valid for any 2020 birthday party. Limit (1) per customer. May not be split. May not be combined with any other offers, specials, coupons or special events. For more information visit UrbanAirSouthHackensack.com. Expires 3/31/2020