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A Birthday Bashfor Less
Plus, party entertainment, places, and more!
10 Easy Tips to Go Zero Waste
SpecialParent • Planning for Your Child’s Future • Sensory-Friendly Fun • Resources for Children with Special Needs
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Party packages include: • A fun theme, such as pilot, astronaut, marine or spy • Exploration of the ship and submarine • Hands-on activities • Lunch and birthday cake • Costumed party host
CONTACT OUR GROUP SALES TEAM AT GROUPSALES@INTREPIDMUSEUM.ORG OR 646-381-5010. PIER 86, WEST 46TH ST & 12TH AVE, NYC INTREPIDMUSEUM.ORG 2019 © Intrepid Museum Foundation. All Rights Reserved. Except as permitted under applicable law, this work may not be copied, published, disseminated, displayed, performed or played without permission of the copyright holder.
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contents table of
Original photo by ›› Big Apple Portraits (bigappleportraits.com) Clothing provided by Land’s End (landsend.com)
april 2019
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birthday parties 32 A Birthday Bash for Less
Zero Waste, Zero Fuss
Learn how to make the green movement work for your family—it’s not as hard as you think!
Family Activities Calendar
Find something fun to do with your family every day of the month!
34 Birthday Party Directory
36
special needs 16 18 20 22
Protecting Your Child’s Future Special Needs Directory Special Education Resources Special Education Resources at-a-Glance
Potty Training 101
Here’s how to make the frustrating task of getting your kids out of diapers as smooth as possible.
raising kids
things to do
6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Advocating for Peri 12 Where School-Home Collaboration is a Cornerstone 12 More Child Care Solutions in NYC 13 Helping Teens Through Mental Health Struggles 36 Potty Training 101 38 Awkward Talks 40 Camps for Older Kids 42 Camps at-a-Glance Chart 44 Open Houses, Professional Services 45 Party Planner and Advertisers’ Index 46 I Will Not Fail This Child
25 Family Activities Calendar
family life 14 Zero Waste, Zero Fuss
NYMetroParents
Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 14 10 Easy Tips to Go Zero Waste 16 Planning for Your Child’s Future 29 Sensory-Friendly Fun 32 A Birthday Bash for Less facebook.com/nymetroparents
@NYMetroParents Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!
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 Spring Semester!
Parent/Child Classes • Pre-K Gymnastics Grade School Gymnastics • Dance Karate • Sports Skills • Awesome Birthday Bashes Parents’ Survival Nights • Camps BigAppleParent
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raising kids editor’s note APRIL 2019 • Vol.34 • No.3
A Season to Celebrate
W
e have a little spring in our step, and the change in seasons has (almost) nothing to do with it. In early March, we attended the annual Parenting Media Association conference, and NYMetroParents was honored with five awards for digital and editorial excellence—including a silver award for our Weekend Scoop newsletter! Sign up at nymetroparents.com/register if you don’t already get it! Children always seem to have a little spring in their step when their birthdays roll around. So, to help you plan the ultimate birthday bash without breaking the bank, check out Madeleine Burry’s article on pg. 32. It’s full of ideas to earn you double-taps on Instagram without tapping into your savings. Spring is also a time when we think of how we can help Mother Earth and do good for our environment (who else is excited to visit baby animals at the zoo?). Check out “Zero Waste, Zero Fuss” for 10 easy things you can do to limit the amount of trash your family creates (pg. 14). April is Autism Awareness Month, and in honor of it, you’ll want to read Stella L. Spanakos’ heart-wrenching essay about how she turned a tragedy into a way to help her son and others on the spectrum (pg. 46). And in keeping with our goal to help you make better decisions for your kids, we’re bringing back Special Parent in digital editions full of advice, resources, and inspiring stories—all for parents of children with special needs. It’s launching Monday, April 8, so check it out then! We’re also continuing to help you make better decisions for your kids when it comes to summer camp. If you haven’t already, make sure you read our 2019 Summer Camp Guide at nymetroparents.com/campguide/manhattan. Whether you’ve already chosen a camp or are still looking, the Camp Guide is full of advice for working with camp staff, ensuring your child has an amazing summer, and local camp descriptions. It’s a must-read for every parent of a camper. Wishing you a prosperous and productive spring! Katelin Walling Editorial Director
Helping Parents Make Better Decisions
Keep in Touch: @nymetroparents nymetroparents.com editor@nymetroparents.com
Have You Seen the 2019 Summer Camp Guide? nymetroparents.com/campguide/manhattan
NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling PRODUCTION EDITOR: Melissa Wickes ASSISTANT EDITORS: Jacqueline Neber, Anja Webb CALENDARS CALENDAR COORDINATOR: Whitney C. Harris EVENT RESEARCHERS: Rochelle Dorset, Lisa Fogarty, Kristina Johnson, Shara Levine DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke
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Looking for a camp for this summer? Have you chosen a camp for your child this summer? Either way, you’ll want to read this guide! Big Apple Parent’s 2019 Camp Guide is chock full of great advice every parent of a camper should know. Learn from experts about working well with camp staff, supporting your child, or choosing the right camp for your child. Plus, if you are shopping for a camp, check out local camps’ descriptions and open houses. Read it now on your phone, desktop or tablet.
CEO: David L. Miller GENERAL MANAGER: Thomas K. Hanlon 213 W. 35th St., Suite 12W, New York, NY 10001 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239
BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN • ROCKLAND PARENT, STATEN ISLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2019, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.
THE PERFECT CAMP TO FIT YOUR SUMMER PLANS Choose your weeks and your sport; there’s a camp for every athlete and every schedule. Sports Academy • Gymnastics • Ninja Parkour Golf • Basketball • Elite Soccer • Ice Hockey Ice Skating • Urban Adventure for Teens
JUNE 17 - AUGUST 30, 2019 Hot Lunch Provided Transportation Available
EARLY BIRDS: Register by May 17 + Save!
chelseapiers.com/camps
BAP Full Camp 2-19.indd 1
BigAppleParent 1/18/19 4:03 PM7
Courtesy Bright Horizons
Early Education Center Opens in West Village and Brooklyn
At Bright Horizons, the curriculum, named The World at Their Fingertips, is designed to promote active learning in children that both prepares them for school and helps develop their character, creativity, and sense of community.
Who: Bright Horizons Early Education and Preschool What’s New: The West Village location, which opened in January. and the Brooklyn location, which opened in February. Both locations offer state-of-the-art facilities that include indoor play spaces to keep children active no matter the weather, as well as the highest level of security and latest technology. Bright Horizons offers full- and part-time, year-round programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. The centers abide by Reggio Emilia and Montessori philosophies and aim to consider what children need in a space and how they will use it. Want More Info: 644 Greenwich St., West Village; 646-348-9012; 52 Water St., Brooklyn; 332-255-8599; brighthorizons.com/nyc
7/01 - 7/05 7/07 - 7/12 7/15 - 7/19 7/22 - 7/26 7/29 - 8/02 8/05 - 8/09 8/12 - 8/16 8/19 - 8/23 8/26 - 8/30
At Pierce Country Day Camp, campers are offered traditional activities such as swim, sports, and art, in addition to innovative activities such as Lego robotics.
Who: Pierce Country Day Camp What’s New: Tutoring services, in partnership with Private Prep, which are expected to be offered beginning June 27. Pierce Country Day Camp’s activity selection will include 1-on-1 tutoring sessions from Private Prep this summer. Up to three times during the regular camp week, children will be tutored in the subject of the family’s choosing for either 30 minutes or 1 hour. Pierce can accommodate most subjects, depending on tutor availability. Parents can sign campers up for tutoring sessions after registering for camp. The price of a session includes a precamp 1-on-1 meeting with the family to ensure the camper starts on the right track as well as follow-up phone calls to report the camper’s progress. Want More Info: 37 Mineola Ave., Roslyn, Nassau County; 516-621-2211; piercecamps.com
Future Doctors Young Entrepreneur Architects & Structural Engineering Painters & Clay Masters Chemical Engineers Robotic Engineering w/ Cubelets Aviation and Flying Engineer Electrical Engineer Food Scientist Upper East Side 307 East 84th Street 212.737.3344
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Day Camp in Nassau County to Offer Tutoring Services Courtesy Pierce Country Day Camp
raising kids new places, new programs
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
Tribeca 104 Reade Street 212.346.7737
East Village 437 East 12th Street 212.260.8020
ftkny.com
CELEBRATE YOUR BIRTHDAY WITH BLUE MAN GROUP!
ROCK. LAUGH. PARTY. SAVE $20 PER TICKET GROUPS (10+) RECEIVE COMPLIMENTARY BIRTHDAY PACKAGE • Themed evites • Name on LED screen in theater • Spin art canvas created by the Blue Men • Show poster for each guest Visit BLUEMAN.COM/NYCBIRTHDAY Call 212-260-8993 | Email newyorkgroups@blueman.com ASTOR PLACE THEATRE | 434 LAFAYETTE ST. NYC | BLUEMAN.COM Valid for select performances on regularly priced orch/mezz tickets April 1- Dec 21, 2019. Subject to availability and modifications. Additional fees may apply. Cannot be combined with other offers or on previously purchased tickets. All sales final. Blue Man Group reserves all rights. Blackout dates may apply.
AUDITIONS
APRIL APRIL APRIL APRIL
1 8 9 15
6 year olds 7-8 year olds 9-10 year olds 6 year olds
For 6 to 10 year olds
At the School’s headquarters in Manhattan (165 W 65th Street)
Center photo by Jai Odell. Other photos by Rosalie O’Connor.
SAB is the official school of N E W YO R K C I T Y BA L L E T
No previous experience necessary. Classes for 2019-2020 begin in September at SAB’s Lincoln Center headquarters in Manhattan. Substantial scholarship program for students with need. Additional auditions in New York City neighborhoods throughout April.
Required pre-registration and more information at SAB.ORG/AUDITIONS PLUS: Enroll in May for Little Dancers Fall Session, introductory ballet classes for 4 & 5 year olds beginning in September. No audition required. Visit sab.org/littledancers for more information. BigAppleParent
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SpecialParent Courtesy Lori Finkelstein
raising kids voices
Advocating for Peri ››
Although the past 18 years have been full of challenges, I’ve always believed my daughter could do anything she put her mind to. By Lori Finkelstein, as told to David Paone
I
’ll start at the beginning: I was born in Queens in 1965 and moved to West Hempstead about two years later. I met Paul while we both attended Queens College, but he repulsed me, in true romantic comedy fashion. Eventually we became best friends, but when I set him up on a blind date, I knew I had made a mistake and wanted him for myself. We were married on Dec. 31, 1989. I had told him if we didn’t get married in 1989, we were never getting married. Beginning a marriage with an ultimatum is always a good idea. Our first child is Katy, born in 1990. Our second is Joel, born in 1995. We weren’t planning on a third child, at least Paul wasn’t, but in 1999 I heard on the radio that if we were to conceive a child within the next few days, we would most likely have a millennial, born by Dec. 31. We got on that right away. Peri was born on our 10th anniversary. Much of Peri’s young life has included medical emergencies and hospital stays that last for months. By the time she was 2, she had both CPR and the Heimlich maneuver performed on her twice, including by Paul. Sometimes I have flashbacks of them cutting her dress open in the ER and pounding on her. Many children born with nemaline rod myopathy, a form of muscular dystrophy, don’t survive past the age of 7. Peri has survived one muscle biopsy (at 9 months old), nearly 25 sets of ear tubes, more than a dozen bronchoscopies, a tracheotomy, the removal of her tonsils and adenoids, a broken femur, two broken tibiae, and eight scoliosis surgeries. Physically and medically, Peri’s obstacles were immense. But one early piece of advice we took heed to was to “maximize her potential.” We’ve always been very positive with Peri. We haven’t said, “she’s never going to do this.” We always assume she can do it. That approach has worked. Peri made honor roll every quarter in sixth grade. The year before, she won the excellence award for her class at graduation. More recently she was salutatorian at her graduation from Henry Viscardi School in Albertson.
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
Lori Finkelstein with her daughter Peri, who was born with nemaline rod myopathy, a form of muscular dystrophy
I didn’t know it at the time, but all during my young life I was learning the skills that enabled me to care for such a child. My sister was book smart. It was her job to study all the time and I took care of the house. I cooked and cleaned while my parents were at work. But I also learned how to call companies on the phone if I had a problem with their products. I learned what to say to get them to send me a replacement at no charge. All of this repeated itself when I had to deal with insurance company appeals and the uncooperating public school system. My knowing how to finagle has gotten Peri services she wouldn’t otherwise have had. In 2013, we had the opportunity to meet David Wright of the New York Mets at Citi Field. I love David Wright; he’s a mensch. David walked over to his locker, produced an All-Star game jersey, signed it, and gave it to Peri. I would have been happy with a sock. This past September he actually called Peri on the phone to talk about a gift she had sent him. Then he mailed her a signed baseball bat. Gotta love David Wright. He didn’t have to do any of that. Currently, Peri is a freshman at Adelphi University in Garden City, as a business marketing major. I attend class with her some days and a nurse we hired on other days. It’s like I’m going to college again. At first, I paid attention to the lessons and even asked questions, which really bothered Peri. So now I sit in class, next to Peri, watching Netflix on my phone. I watched all of Orange Is the New Black and now I’m up to Mad Men. Sometimes the teachers will talk about something from 1912 and give me a nod and I’ll give them one back. The worst part, however, is while Peri is on a feeding tube and losing weight, I think I’m gaining the freshman 20. The plan is for Peri, and probably me, to go all the way to an MBA. I’ve been helping her with her papers, but I can see her getting stronger and stronger and soon she won’t need any help. One day Peri will rule the world.
Independent School Spotlight
Founded in 1992, Gillen Brewer School is a family-oriented, 12-month early childhood program for children ages 2.8 to 10 years old with language-based and non-verbal learning disabilities. We instill self-confidence and build strong foundations for lifelong learning and independence. Students learn and grow in a secure and nurturing environment and develop skills to overcome challenges through: • Developmentally Appropriate Academic Instruction • Speech and Language Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Counseling and Social Groups Uncover the Specialness in Your Child™ Contact: Julian Parham Santana, Director of Admissions julian@gillenbrewer.com • 212-831-3667
410 East 92nd Street, New York, NY 10128 www.gillenbrewer.com
Instagram: @gillenbrewer BigAppleParent 11
Courtesy The Gillen Brewer School
raising kids independent school spotlight
Where School-Home Collaboration is a Cornerstone ››
By Katelin Walling
N
oah Feller, a 9½-year-old with apraxia of speech and hearing loss, attends The Gillen Brewer School on the Upper East Side. “The way [the school has] collaborated with us to ensure that the things we’re doing outside of school are consistent with what they’re doing in school—I’ve seen that teamwork make a difference,” says Noah’s mom, Stacey Feller. That school-home partnership is a cornerstone of the school’s philosophy, according to Julian Parham Santana, director of admissions, marketing, and outreach at The Gillen Brewer School. The school was founded by two special education teachers for children with significant learning challenges. It’s a 12-month curriculum that focuses on differentiated instruction to meet each student’s needs and abilities. “Noah has improved his speech production since enrolling at Gillen Brewer last year—he has articulation issues. Just the other day, they sent home a video of him saying a sound…he was not able to produce before. We’ve been working on it at home and they’ve been working on it at school. It kind of took our breath away because it’s evidence of how working together can make a change,” she says. The Gillen Brewer School’s elementary school-age program has two class sizes—10 students and six—and each class has three teachers, as
Stacey Feller says the school-home collaboration with the Gillen Brewer School has made a difference for her son, Noah (pictured).
well as a team of therapists assigned to it consisting of a speech-language pathologist, an occupational therapist, and a psychologist. Noah is in the smaller class setting and Feller says one of her main goals for Noah is to increase his independent social interaction with peers. “Gillen Brewer took that very seriously when we discussed it with them. So, they focused on his areas of strength and have integrated him into some of the larger classrooms for certain subjects,” she says. “He’s benefitted because he has these various organic opportunities for peer interactions that we’re really hoping for, as well as the individualized instruction that he needs.” The school-home partnership doesn’t end with the student’s needs. The Gillen Brewer School has a team that is dedicated to working with the family, offering workshops for grandparents and siblings, support groups for parents, and an in-house legal counsel who helps parents navigate the special education system, Parham Santana says.
raising kids child care
More Child Care Solutions in NYC ››
Courtesy Mommybites.com
T
he hectic pace of a New York City mom’s life oftentimes requires her to be in multiple places at once. Thankfully, living in NYC makes affordable and creative child care solutions more accessible than in most places. In February and March, we elaborated on asking neighbors for help, hiring a mother’s helper of a slightly younger age (who is less costly and can be groomed into a future experienced full-fledged babysitter), and the strategic advantages of participating in a nanny share. Here are some additional ways in which living in the Big Apple can really work in parents’ favor when it comes to finding child care.
Put Your Friendships into Action
Take turns with family friends picking up or watching each other’s kids after school so you have time to run errands or work out. With walking and NYC transit as school commute options, you won’t be limited by the number of seats—or car seats—in a friend’s car. When swapping childcare hours with friends, money doesn’t change hands.
Search Your Social Connections
Ready to hire a sitter but need more recommendations? Spread the word to your social circle. If someone isn’t available, ask: • Your child’s teacher • Your regular sitter’s roommates • Volunteers at your church or synagogue • Child care workers at your gym • Alumni from your college • College babysitting groups • Local chapter of your sorority • Co-workers • Unemployed friends • Babysitters you meet at school pick-up
Mommybites’ nanny boards only feature postings from current families. You can rely on their recommendations. If you need a nanny or babysitter, visit Mommybites.com.
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
raising kids in the know
Helping Teens through Mental Health Struggles ›› By Melissa Wickes
N
early 20 percent of teenagers have a diagnosed mental health disorder, according to Robin Seymour, LCSW, clinical director of Newport Academy, a series of evidence-based healing centers for adolescents struggling with mental health issues. She says teens often exhibit internal mental health struggles by acting out and partaking in risky behaviors. So, to help your teen through these difficulties and limit risky behaviors, Seymour shares five effective ways to navigate your child’s mental health crisis. Make communication a priority. Many teens say their No. 1 issue with their parents is a lack of communication, according to Seymour. Stay present in your child’s life, ask questions without being interrogative, and, most importantly, listen to what she has to say. When approaching these conversations, recognize your child may be struggling and acknowledge that her outlandish behaviors may be a result of a deeper struggle. Approach the situation with love and understanding and ask yourself, ‘why is my child doing this?’ Let your teen know he is not alone. Teens in general struggle a lot because they often feel as though they are the only one dealing with certain things, whether it’s anxiety or depression—or just the feeling of receiving a bad grade on an exam. And with the stigma of mental health disorders, your child may feel very alone in his fight. Reassure your teen that he is not alone by discussing struggles you may have had as a teenager.
Don’t overreact to the situation. Blowing small problems out of proportion will only make the situation worse. In order to help your teen through what may or may not be a mental health crisis, be patient and find your own middle ground. If you overreact, your teen will be less likely to come to you for help in any situation. Reach out to other adults in your child’s life. While you know your child better than anyone else, it can always help to get the perspective of other adults that spend a lot of time with her. If you have a concern, ask her teachers, coaches, and any other adults she may be spending a good chunk of time with if they have noticed an abnormality in your daughter’s life. Access professional help. Mental health is a delicate and serious topic that needs to be treated with empathy and often professional help. Seymour suggests looking into mental health treatment options that use evidence-based practices and those that are specific to helping adolescents.
SUMMER CAMP ENROLL ONLINE Weekly Day & Sleep-Over Camps Ages 5-14 June 24 – Aug 16
SPROUTCREEKFARM.org
Baby Goats are Here! Visit 7 days a week 10AM – 5PM Sproutcreekfarm.org | 34 Lauer Road, Poughkeepsie, NY QUESTIONS or GENERAL INFO: 845-485-8438 or camps@sproutcreekfarm.org BigAppleParent 13
family life home
Zero Waste, Zero Fuss
››
Cutting the amount of landfill trash your family creates isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Here’s how to make this green movement work for your family. By Emma Steven
Z
ero-waste living has become a lifestyle movement. There are now hundreds of books, blogs, and videos about it, and even a number of zero-waste stores opening in New York City. For a beginner, becoming a zero-waste household looks time consuming and difficult. So just how do you do it, and is it even possible for a busy, urban family? Bea Johnson is a mother of two, blogger, author of the best-selling book Zero Waste Home, and the founder of the zero-waste lifestyle movement. Her family of four famously collects less than a glass jar’s worth of waste a year, and she travels the world talking about it. Her passion and conviction for zero waste is the driving force behind the lifestyle’s growing popularity. “To me it’s a life hack,” she sums it up. “It’s a way of saving time and money in so many different areas, so that all you regret is not having started earlier.” But before you panic about having to throw away your trash can, it’s important to remember the world is not currently set up for us to be 100-percent zero waste. “Pretty much no one is completely zero waste,” says Celia Ristow, a zero-waste writer, organizer, founder of the blog Litterless. “You can still make some trash and that’s perfectly fine,” she reassures. “It’s less about making zero waste and more about zero-waste principles.”
Why Go Zero Waste?
Though it may seem like a massive undertaking, there are seven 14
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
big reasons to live a zero-waste lifestyle. • It reduces your landfill. New Yorkers create an average of 12,000 tons of waste each day (not including commercial waste), and the majority of it ends up in landfill, according to the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability. • It reduces greenhouse gases. Landfill is the third biggest source of methane gas, which is more potent than carbon dioxide and contributes significantly to climate change, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. • It reduces plastic waste, a global problem that is poisoning our oceans and waterways. By 2025 we will be dumping 16 million metric tons of plastic waste into the sea, per year, according to a 2015 study by the UC Santa Barbara’s National Center for Ecological Analysis. • It conserves natural resources. Creating single-use items uses precious resources (e.g. plastic forks), and those items can’t be re-used or recycled. • Recycling isn’t enough. Although the EPA estimates that Americans recycle more than 87 million tons of waste a year, plastic is usually recycled into something that can’t be recycled, so it eventually ends up in landfill. Recycling also takes up a huge amount of resources, including shipping overseas. • It can improve your health. It reduces your exposure to
plastics and chemicals in conventional consumer products and forces you to eat fewer processed foods. • It can save you time and money. “When you eliminate over consumption and buying disposables, then all of a sudden it’s more time and money in your life to do what’s important to you,” Johnson says. You’ll spend less time and money on cleaning, buying, repairing, and disposing of things.
Getting Started
“When people get started, they think, ‘Oh boy, this sounds so complicated. It’s so different from what we’re doing,’” Johnson says. “But it actually isn’t. We’re talking about things that your grandparents used to do, really quite simple.” She gives the example of replacing tissues with handkerchiefs. Instead of spending time and money going to the store to buy tissues and disposing of them once used, you carry a handkerchief (like Grandma) that you wash and reuse. Johnson also wants to dispel the myth that you need to spend all of your time making zero-waste replacements for things. While some people may enjoy it, this isn’t necessary. Instead of making your own toothpaste, breakfast cereal, or five different types of homemade kitchen cleaner, make low-waste swaps instead. “If you can find the ingredients zero waste and you have the time and the curiosity then great,” Ristow says. “If not, someone probably already makes it and so you can save yourself time.” For example, if your grocery store only stocks packaged bread, you don’t need to make it yourself; look around for a local bakery and bring your own bag. Ristow’s blog has a great shopping directory (litterless.com/wheretoshop) to help you find low-waste alternatives. “Zero waste becomes a lifestyle—not a short-term project— when you let it simplify your life, not complicate it,” Johnson says. “It’s all about finding super-simple solutions that you can see yourself sticking to for life.” In her book, Johnson introduces five zero-waste rules: refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, and rot. Read on to discover how to implement them, as well as further tips to get you started. Refuse what you do not need, especially single-use items. Say no to the plastic bag, coffee cup, plastic fork, freebie pen, hotel shampoo, and toy at the dentist. This simple step will drastically reduce the waste you are bringing into your home. Then you can start working on what is already there. Reduce your belongings to make you more aware of what you are bringing into your home. Do you need three different types of moisturizer? Do you have a full closet but keep buying clothes? Do your kids play with all of their toys or could you donate some? Go slow and start with easy areas. You can then see where you need to make zero-waste swaps. Switch to reusables. Bring a reusable coffee cup to the coffee shop, a lunch box to work, a handkerchief in your bag, and reusable bags to the grocery store. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to do this, just use what you have at home. Make produce bags and handkerchiefs out of old sheets and use glass jars to transport your lunch or wet food like meat and cheese from the store. Need to buy something? Reuse by buying second hand items. Go slow to avoid burn out and overwhelm. Ristow recommends replacing items one at a time, for a more sustainable change. “Start small, and start where you can make a big impact,” she says. “You don’t have to change everything at once. You’ll feel really good when you notice your small changes making a difference, which will motivate you to keep going.”
Recycle correctly. Don’t just put it all in and hope for the best. Approximately 77 percent of New Yorkers’ trash could be recycled, donated, or composted instead, according to the New York City Department of Sanitation. Read your borough’s recycling rules carefully to avoid contaminating your collection (causing it to end up in landfill). NYC has an excellent program in place. With a little research you can find a home for most things, even if they can’t be left at the curb. Rot what you can’t recycle, reuse, or refuse. The simple act of composting will reduce your trash by 34 percent and you don’t need a garden to do it. Visit grownyc.org for more information about local collection and drop-off locations. Shop at a farmer’s market, which is a great way of reducing waste. You’ll buy more fresh produce, support local farms, and you can bring your own bags and containers. There are more than 50 farmer’s markets in NYC, visit grownyc.org or downtoearthmarkets.com to find one near you. Buy unpackaged foods. Once you get started, you’ll realize there are lots of options you aren’t using. Check out the bulk aisle of your local health food or grocery store, go to the bakery for your bread and cookies, get meats and cheeses from the deli counter, and stock up on lunch items at the salad bar. In some cases, you’ll even save money doing this. Find a bulk store near you with the Bulk Finder tool zerowastehome.com. Switch cleaning and beauty products. You don’t need five different cleaners and rolls of paper towels for a clean house. All you need is baking soda, vinegar, some soap, and old rags. In the bathroom you can switch to soap bars and refillable shampoo. There are now many companies offering refillable, package free products such as Brooklyn’s own Package Free Shop, set up by zero-waste blogger Lauren Singer of trashisfortossers.com. Focus on what’s important. “People think [zero waste] is about reducing your trash, but ultimately it actually translates into a simpler life: a life that is based on experiences instead of things and a life focused on being rather than having,” Johnson says. “For us, that’s what makes life richer.” The zero-waste lifestyle movement began in one woman’s kitchen in California and has grown into something with the power to influence corporations. In May 2019, eight of the biggest plastic polluting companies in the world, including Procter & Gamble and Unilever, will start trialing a new venture called LOOP, in which their products are shipped to consumers in refillable packaging that they then return. The future, we hope, is zero waste. Emma Steven is a British freelance writer living in Manhattan with her husband, two small kids, and two cats.
DISCOVER • PROTECT • INSPIRE Bronx Zoo
Queens Zoo
Summer just got WILD! Join us for an unforgettable experience that includes age-appropriate, hands-on STEM activities, up-close animal encounters, and exhibit explorations! Call 1-800-433-4149 or email edu@wcs.org for more info!
Central Park Zoo
Prospect Park Zoo
New York Aquarium
BigAppleParent 15
SpecialParent
Protecting Your Child’s Future
››
Parents of children with special needs must plan for the years ahead in important ways. Here’s where to begin. By Christina Vercelletto
P
arenting is challenging no matter what. But as Nicole Johnson of Port Washington in Nassau County puts it, “parenting a severely disabled child is just very different. Our concerns are not ordinary.” Johnson’s daughter, Josie, 7, has FOXG1 syndrome, a neurological disorder caused by a mutation in the FOXG1 gene. “I worry about lifting her as she gets older,” Johnson continues. “She’s 50 pounds, and it’s getting very hard.” Josie could have a life-threatening seizure at any time, and so “it’s critical she is always with someone. I worry about her care,” shares Johnson, who is a co-founder of the FOXG1 Research Foundation. Johnson’s worries about how her child will be taken care of when she’s no longer able to do it are likely familiar to many parents of children with special needs. Exactly what legal and financial steps need to be taken to ensure your child’s care and well-being down the road will be dictated by the specifics of your family’s situation and your child’s diagnosis. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t exist, but consulting with an attorney who specializes in estate and guardianship law to discuss your unique situation is an essential step. Seeking the guidance of a financial planner with expertise in family matters could also be necessary. When selecting these professionals to work with, 16
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
consider their rapport. Given the personal, emotional nature of the topics you’ll be discussing, it’s important you feel very much at ease with him or her. If you enlist a large firm, make sure that the person you first met with and liked is actually the one who will be working with you through the conclusion of the process. When you’ve selected your planning “team,” prepare to discuss these key points, and go to your initial meetings with a list of specific questions in hand.
Government Services
Is Social Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicaid, or any other state or federal benefit available to your child, and what are the respective qualifications to receive them? This is the first thing to look into, and ask your attorney about, says Wendy Gildin, a special education lawyer in Garden City.
Income and Asset Limitations
Is there a limit to how much money your child can have in his or her name in order to receive the maximum amount of available benefits and services? “The answer is yes for many. For example, to qualify for SSI, your child must have less than $2,000 in
assets,” Gilden explains. And it’s about more than financial concerns. You will likely want to make sure there would be the least upset to your child’s current arrangements as possible, adds Naomi Becker Collier, Esq., of Pashman Stein in Purchase. Losing benefits can necessitate switching caregivers and disrupt your child’s routine.
respective parties’ temperaments and perspectives on such practical matters align. You may love and trust both your sister and your childhood best friend, but if the two don’t usually see eye-to-eye, it may not be wise to pair them in these important roles.
Special Needs (or Supplemental Need) Trusts
Your will is where you name your child’s trustee(s) and guardian. Once you decide on them, it is crucial to consult your attorney to make sure your will is executed properly, and any and all beneficiary designations are spelled out as they should be, Collier says. A durable power of attorney appoints the individuals who can act on your behalf while you are still alive. “This is a very powerful tool to ensure that your child is taken care of should you become incapacitated,” says Nadine Gordon Lee, a certified financial planner with the Colony Group Family Offices in Manhattan and Armonk. For much the same reason, it’s smart to have health care proxies and related directives in place, she adds.
Setting up a SNT for the benefit of the child with special needs is vital, says Michelle Peretz, counsel to Rivkin Radler’s Trusts & Estates Practice Group, with offices in Manhattan and Uniondale. “By utilizing a special needs trust, you can protect the assets from claims and creditors, while retaining the disabled child’s eligibility for government services. Then the funds are used to pay expenses,” Peretz says. “Note, though, that the money in the trust cannot be given outright to the beneficiary, but [only] be used to pay expenses on their behalf.” Try to set up a budget for your dependent’s needs, so you can get a rough estimate of what those expenses would be. “Once you have an idea of how much money will be needed for him or her, then you can evaluate how you are going to fund that need in a trust,” Collier says.
Guardians and Trustees
Consider carefully who will be the people to provide support for your child, Gildin urges. “Some adults with disabilities will require a guardian who has the legal ability to make decisions for him or her, while someone [else] may need to act as a trustee to oversee the special needs trust,” Gildin says. She encourages parents to involve their child in this planning process as much as is practical. Trustees have complete control of the finances and assets in the SNT. Parents do not need to give this control over to one relative or close friend; they can choose co-trustees instead. Peretz recommends three: “This will avoid the autonomy associated with having one trustee appointed, and the potential for deadlocks between an even number of trustees,” she explains. Guardians, rather than controlling the financial side of your child’s life, will make decisions such as living arrangements, doctor selection, and transportation arrangements. Although it can be helpful if a trustee is also the guardian, Peretz notes, it’s quite possible that a person perfectly suited to making financial decisions isn’t necessarily the ideal caretaker. If you do decide to split up those responsibilities, make sure the
Your Will, Power of Attorney, and Health Care Proxy
Properly Executed Life Insurance
Parents should make sure life insurance will be payable to the special needs trust, not directly paid out to the child, which could negate any government benefits for him or her. Lou Cannataro, partner at Cannataro Park Avenue Financial in Manhattan, advises purchasing separate life insurance policies for the spouse and any other children in the family. He points to “second to die” coverage as the most efficient life insurance for this type of situation. “Second to die is one policy that covers both parents. There is no payout until the second parent dies, for typically this is when the child is truly on their own.” Planning for a child’s future is important for all parents, but for parents of a child with special needs, the conversation is taken to another level. “We all nurture and plan for our child with the hope that our responsibility wanes once they begin to build their own lives,” Cannataro observes. “For parents with a [child with special needs], this role never ends.” So, while thinking ahead to a time when you won’t be able to care for your child as you do now is unsettling, even overwhelming, the best thing you can do for your child, and your own peace of mind, is to get started now. Christina Vercelletto is a former editor at NYMetroParents, Parenting, Scholastic Parent & Child, and Woman’s Day. She lives on Long Island with her kids, a chiweenie, Pickles, and a 20-pound calico, Chub-Chub.
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Special Needs Directory Andrew Cohen, Esq., Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost.
Atlas Foundation For Autism Atlas School 252 W. 29th St., 3rd Floor 212-256-0846 atlasforautism.org info@atlasforautism.org The Atlas Foundation for Autism houses the Atlas School as well as speech, OT services, music, after-school classes, and weekend social skills groups! Atlas is different in its approach to working within modalities that address communication, emotional and social thinking, as well as behavior and self-esteem!
Camp Huntington 56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com dfalk@camphuntington.com Camp Huntington is a coed, residential summer camp for children and young adults with autism, related developmental and learning disabilities, and ADD. Ability levels mild to moderate-severe. Located in High Falls in the beautiful Catskill Mountain region, the camp provides therapeutically and instructionally designed recreation programs in summer.
Chatty Child Speech & Occupational Therapy, P.L.L.C. 325 Broadway, Suite 403 347-491-4451 chattychild.com info@chattychild.com Chatty Child is a personalized therapeutic center in downtown Manhattan. We provide
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comprehensive speech-language, occupational, and physical therapy services. We offer evaluations, individual sessions, social skills classes, and enrichment programming. We accept DOE-RSAs, EI, and Private Pay. Our therapists are experienced and passionate about creating a unique learning experience.
Gillen Brewer School Julian Parham Santana, director of admissions 410 E. 92nd St. 212-831-3667 gillenbrewer.com julian@gillenbrewer.com Gillen Brewer School is a family-oriented, 12-month, early childhood and elementary program for children ages 2.8-10 years with language-based and nonverbal learning disabilities. We provide an integrated, developmentally appropriate, academic-therapeutic program that includes speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. Our curriculum is enriched with arts, music, science, and physical fitness programs.
Harbor Haven Day Camp serving Manhattan children with mild special needs for 18 years 908-964-5411 harborhaven.com info@harborhaven.com Comprehensive summer program for ages 3-15 with mild special needs. Athletics, swim, science, performing arts, cooking, photography, computers, arts, bikes, yoga, trips, and special events. Social skills, academics, speech/occupational therapy, sibling inclusion, and separate programs for ages 16-18 are unique components. Trained staff provides one-to-three ratio or better. Door-to-door, air-conditioned transportation available.
Hebrew Public 555 Eighth Ave. suite 1703 212-792-6234 hebrewpublic.org Hebrew Public Charter School is a network of diverse-by-design schools. We are committed to serving instructional services to all students, from a wide range of racial,
economic, and cultural backgrounds. Services include occupational and physical therapy, special education itinerant services, and speech and language therapy.
Huntington Learning Center 237 W. 72nd St. 212-362-0100 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington is the leader in kindergarten-12th tutoring and test prep. Our certified tutors provide individualized instruction in all areas including executive functioning, ADHD, Dyslexia, and learning disabilities. We help students prep for the SAT, ACT, and state exams. Huntington also testifies on student’s behalf and attends IEP/504 meetings.
The Ideal School of Manhattan Upper West Side 212-769-1699 theidealschool.org dbyrnes@idealschool.org The IDEAL School of Manhattan is New York’s only kindergarten to 12th independent inclusion school, where we celebrate the tremendous social, emotional, and academic growth born in a diverse and nurturing educational community. Schedule your visit to our Upper West Side campus for an open house or a Tuesday Talk and Tour, theidealschool.org/admissions/ open-houses.
Otto Specht School 260 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-352-5020 x130 ottospechtschool.org info@ottospecht.org At the Otto Specht School, we work to discover each child’s path to lifelong learning, offering a variety of educational programs designed to meet needs of students with developmental delays, social and sensory sensitivities, and learning challenges. We offer kindergarten-high school, High School Practical Life Skills, and Transitional Life Skills programs.
SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE
We Can’t Wait to Hear What Your Child Has to Say!
Does your child need extra support? Boost academic, social and verbal skills to improve school success. Chatty Child offers: l Individual & group treatment for speech-language, occupational and physical therapy l Socialization groups l InterAct Theatre + Therapy Lab™ – summer workshop l Feeding and oral motor treatment l PROMPT therapy for apraxia of speech l Handwriting instruction l Sensory Integration therapy l Academic preparation
Confidence Blooms at Chatty Child! At Chatty Child, our therapists provide quality care that is nurturing, innovative and creative. We work with the family to provide each child with a comprehensive treatment plan, while taking into account each child’s interests, strengths and goals. We are here to help your child reach his or her fullest potential.
For Speech, Occupational, Physical Therapy, we accept: l Department of Education Related Service Agreements (RSAs) l Early Intervention l Private pay with fully coded invoices for out-of-network insurance reimbursement. To register, or schedule a tour, private consultation or evaluation, email info@chattychild.com, call 347.491.4451, or visit www.chattychild.com.
Chatty Child’s state-of-the-art therapy center for children is conveniently located in lower Manhattan. Please come in for a tour to discover what we can offer your child and become a part of the Chatty Child family!
325 Broadway - Suite 403 New York, New York 10007
Give your child with mild special needs...
A Summer of Opportunities Opportunities Opportunit pportunities Comprehensive programming for ages 3 – 15... Social skills development and facilitation Daily academic reinforcement Speech and occupational therapy Special Program for 16 - 18 year olds
Call about our fabulous Life & TravelQuest Programs for 16-18 yr olds
Visit our website for OPEN HOUSE Dates
...In a fun and nurturing summer camp environment Private school campus on 8 park-like acres Swimming, sports, bicycle riding, performing and fine arts, computers, science and many more amazing activities, events and trips Serving Manhattan’s Upper East & West Sides. Call to inquire about additional locations.
— Just 30 mins from Manhattan in West Orange, NJ — Transportation can be provided in most cases
FREE Sibling Inclusion Weeks Weeks
Please visit www.harborhaven.com or call 908-964-5411 for more information BigAppleParent 19
Special Education Resources Atlas Foundation For Autism
EMPLOYERS Moms Make Great Part-Time Staff People LOOKING FOR STAFF? POST YOUR JOB MOMMYBITES.COM/POSTJOB
Atlas School 252 W. 29th St., 3rd Floor 212-256-0846 atlasforautism.org info@atlasforautism.org The Atlas Foundation for Autism houses the Atlas School as well as speech, OT services, music, after-school classes, and weekend social skills groups! Atlas is different in its approach to working within modalities that address communication, emotional and social thinking, as well as behavior and self-esteem!
Chatty Child Speech & Occupational Therapy, P.L.L.C.
325 Broadway, Suite 403 347-491-4451 chattychild.com info@chattychild.com Chatty Child is a personalized therapeutic center in downtown Manhattan. We provide comprehensive speech-language, occupational, and physical therapy services. We offer evaluations, individual sessions, social skills classes, and enrichment programming. We accept DOE-RSAs, EI, and Private Pay. Our therapists are experienced and passionate about creating a unique learning experience.
Gillen Brewer School
• Admin • Customer Service • Marketing • Sales • Editorial • Other Jobs
Julian Parham Santana, director of admissions 410 E. 92nd St. 212-831-3667 gillenbrewer.com julian@gillenbrewer.com Gillen Brewer School is a family-oriented, 12-month, early childhood and elementary program for children ages 2.8-10 years with language-based and nonverbal learning disabilities. We provide an integrated, developmentally appropriate, academic-therapeutic program that includes speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. Our curriculum is enriched with arts, music, science, and physical fitness programs.
Hebrew Public
555 Eighth Ave., Suite 1703 212-792-6234 hebrewpublic.org Hebrew Public Charter School
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
is a network of diverse-by-design schools. We are committed to serving instructional services to all students, from a wide range of racial, economic, and cultural backgrounds. Services include: occupational and physical therapy, special education itinerant services, speech and language therapy.
Huntington Learning Center
237 W. 72nd St. 212-362-0100 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington is the leader in kindergarten to 12th tutoring and test prep. Our certified tutors provide individualized instruction in all areas including executive functioning, ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities. We help students prep for the SAT, ACT, and state exams. Huntington also testifies on student’s behalf and attends IEP/504 meetings.
The Ideal School of Manhattan
Upper West Side 212-769-1699 theidealschool.org dbyrnes@idealschool.org The IDEAL School of Manhattan is New York’s only kindergarten to 12th independent inclusion school, where we celebrate the tremendous social, emotional, and academic growth born in a diverse and nurturing educational community. Schedule your visit to our Upper West Side campus for an open house or a Tuesday Talk and Tour, theidealschool.org/admissions/ open-houses.
Otto Specht School
260 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-352-5020 x130 ottospechtschool.org info@ottospecht.org At the Otto Specht School, we work to discover each child’s path to lifelong learning, offering a variety of educational programs designed to meet needs of students with developmental delays, social and sensory sensitivities, and learning challenges. We offer kindergarten-high school, High School Practical Life Skills, and Transitional Life Skills programs.
SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE
BigAppleParent 21
Atlas School atlasforautism.org Chatty Child Speech & Occupational Therapy, P.L.L.C. chattychild.com Gillen Brewer School gillenbrewer.com
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Huntington Learning Center huntingtonhelps.com
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The Ideal School of Manhattan theidealschool.org
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Hebrew Public hebrewpublic.org
Otto Specht School ottospechtschool.org
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Inclusive Setting
Ninth to 12th Grades
Sixth to Eighth Grades
Kindergarten to Fifth Grade
Preschool & Day Care
GRADES SERVED Speech & Language Therapy
Special Education Itinerant Services
Occupational & Physical Therapy
Early Intervention
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis
SERVICES OFFERED
Physical Impairments
Learning Disabilities
Emotional & Behavioral Disorders
Down syndrome
Developmental Disoders
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Special Education Resources at a Glance
ADD & ADHD
DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTED
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SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE
Hebrew Public is a network of diverse-by-design schools. We are committed to educating students from a wide range of racial, economic, and cultural backgrounds. Services Include: • Occupational & Physical Therapy • Special Education Itinerant Services • Speech & Language Therapy From personalized math and English, to learning a new language, Hebrew Public schools provide your child with a well-rounded academic experience that will set them on a path to success!
UPCOMING TOUR DATES: Tuesday, April 16th • 9:30 AM at Harlem Hebrew Thursday, April 18th • 9:30 AM at HLA (Mill Basin) Thursday, April 18th • 1 PM at HLA2 (Gravesend) Limited Seats Available! Lottery Date: Brooklyn April 9th, Harlem April 10th Have questions? Call 646-916-0055 Hebrew Language Academy (K-8) • 2186 Mill Avenue, Brooklyn Hebrew Language Academy 2 (K-3) • 1870 Stillwell Avenue, Brooklyn Harlem Hebrew Language Academy (K-7) • 147 St. Nicholas Avenue, Manhattan BigAppleParent 23
REACH. GROW. ACHIEVE.
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Your Search for the Perfect Summer Camp is over!
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Camp locations C l i iin NYC and Westchester, er, across Lo L Long ng IIsland, slan sl lan and nd, including in the Hamptons, and the Capital Region. We’ve got your summer fun covered!
Visit us online to select the camp for you www.SportimeCamps.com | 212-427-6150 Camp programs vary at each SPORTIME location
REGISTER FOR OUR SPRING BREAK CAMP - www.SportimeNY.com/schoolbreak
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
Ideas When You Need Them:
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Turn the page for details on Story Pirates Flagship Show (No. 7 on our list).
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CALENDAR 26
Editor’s Hot Tickets
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We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!
28
Animal Lovers, Crafty Kids
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Special Needs, Smarty Pants
30
Holiday Fun, Show Time!
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The Great Outdoors
10
EDITOR’S HOT TICKET
Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 10 events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!
1
MOCACREATE: Celebrate Qing Ming & Welcome Spring!
WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 1-4pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Lower Manhattan AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Mold clay people, enjoy tea eggs, drum sticks, oranges, almond cookies, and more to create your very own Qing Ming picnic scene. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can also make pinwheels and other seasonal paper crafts. WANT TO GO? $12; $8 seniors, students, and children 2 and older. 855-955-6622. mocanyc.org. WHEN: Through April 7: Monday-Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Macy’s, 100-104 W. 35th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Journey to Paradisios gives visitors a glimpse of the cosmos reimagined through flowers and garden landscapes. WHY WE LOVE IT: Special in-store events include floral, food, and fashion demonstrations, and celebrity appearances. WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com.
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Friday, April 12, see website for details WHERE: Pip’s Island, 400 W. 42nd St., Times Square AGES: All WHAT: Ride Pebble’s Cloud Rover, travel underground to help Finn outwit the dastardly moles, grab a treat at Grumble Plum’s bakery, and sing-along with the princess of the underwater seas. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will help save a mystical island using elements of STEAM in this interactive show. WANT TO GO? $59 at the box office; $49 online. 212-609-1372. pipsisland.com.
Annual Shearing of the Heather Celebration FREE
Macy’s Flower Show FREE
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Pip’s Island Grand Re-Opening
4
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park, 741 Ft. Washington Ave., Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Bring your musical instruments and join the community parade through the Heather Garden led by NYPD bagpipers. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can make flower-themed crafts and get their faces painted too! WANT TO GO? 212-795-1600. whidc.org.
2019 Roosevelt Island Cherry Blossom Festival FREE
5 WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-5pm WHERE: Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, 1 FDR Four Freedoms Park, Roosevelt Island AGES: All WHAT: See traditional and modern Japanese performances and a Cultural Fair with tea ceremonies, origami, and kimono try-ons. WHY WE LOVE IT: Stay for the day with community picnics and food vendors, plus music, dance, and martial arts performances to entertain little ones. WANT TO GO? fdrfourfreedomspark.org.
6
4th Annual Taste of Battery Park City
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 12-3pm WHERE: Battery Park City Marina Front Promenade, North Cove Marina Brookfield Place, Battery Park City AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy local food from area restaurants and fun activities in the Kids Corner. WHY WE LOVE IT: Little foodies can pick up a passport and choose which restaurants to sample. WANT TO GO? $30 before April 12; $40 day of. tasteofbatteryparkcity.com.
Story Pirates Flagship Show
WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 12pm WHERE: Upright Citizens Brigade Theater, 555 W. 42nd St., Hell’s Kitchen AGES: All WHAT: This production features stories written by kids, brought to life by comedians, teaching artists, and musicians. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a chance to inspire your child to start writing! WANT TO GO? $35. 347-878-6798. ucbtheatre.com.
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New York City Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival FREE
WHEN: Sunday, April 21, 10am WHERE: Fifth Avenue, between 49th and 57th streets, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Make a fancy bonnet and join in on the festive fun. WHY WE LOVE IT: View the parade at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and snap some great photos of New Yorkers in their Sunday best. WANT TO GO? nycgo.com.
‘Beauty and the Beast’: The Musical
WHEN: Through April 28: Saturday, 3pm; Sunday, 11am WHERE: The Players Theatre, 115 MacDougal St., Greenwich Village AGES: 3-12 WHAT: This adaptation is filled with musical numbers, dancing, and endearing characters. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families are invited to participate in a pre-show arts workshop where they make a Beauty or Beast mask. WANT TO GO? $32-$52. 866-811-4111. literallyalive.com.
9
‘SNAP’
WHEN: April 12-28, see website for times WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Playing with space and time this ensemble of South Korean illusionists will boggle minds! WHY WE LOVE IT: With impressive visual effects, Chaplin-esque comedy, and a running time of 70 minutes, this is an ideal family show. WANT TO GO? $17 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.
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Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the seven no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. Math Encounters: ‘Parties, Doughnuts, and Coloring’ with Maria Chudnovsky FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, April 3, 4-5:30pm and 7-8:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Join for some simple problems in graph theory that lead to an exploration of modern mathematical research. WANT TO GO? 212-542-0566. momath.org.
LC Kids Presents Free Saturdays at the Atrium: Gina Chavez FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 11am WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium, 61 W. 62nd St., Columbus Circle AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Singer-songwriter Gina Chavez plays her evocative collection of bilingual songs. WANT TO GO? 212-721-6500. lincolncenter.org.
Easter Celebration at Highbridge FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-3pm WHERE: Highbridge Park, West 174th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, Washington Heights AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate with the Easter Bunny, an egg hunt, arts and crafts, and games! WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.
Earth Day in the Park FREE
WHEN: Tuesday, April 16, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Washington Market Park, Greenwich and Chambers streets, Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: Create herb gardens using recycled materials WANT TO GO? washingtonmarketpark.org.
High Five Story Time with Adam Rubin & Dan Salmieri FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 3pm WHERE: Bank Street Bookstore, 2780 Broadway, Bloomingdale AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Join the authors of Dragons Love Tacos as they read aloud from and sign their newest book. WANT TO GO? 212-678-1654. bankstreetbooks.com.
Open Art Space: A Free Drop-In Program for LGBTQ Teens and Their Allies FREE
WHEN: Through April 23: Tuesday, 4:30-6:30pm WHERE: Cullman Education Center MoMA, 4 W. 54 St., Midtown AGES: 13-17 WHAT: A drop-in program for LGBTQ high school students interested in art. WANT TO GO? 212-333-1252. moma.org.
Street Games 2019 FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 11am-3pm WHERE: Thomas Jefferson Park, 114th Street and First Avenue, East Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy classic, low-tech games such as boxcar derby, double-dutch, and pogo sticks. WANT TO GO? 212-360-1319. nycgovparks.org. ››
BigAppleParent 27
CRAFTY KIDS Drop In On Design FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 11am-12:30pm and 1:30-3:30pm WHERE: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: This interactive program exposes participants to design concepts, tools, and processes. WANT TO GO? 212-849-8353. cooperhewitt.org.
Family Genealogy Day: Exploring Family Photos FREE
WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 11am-12:30pm and 1:30-3pm WHERE: Center for Jewish History, 15 W. 16th St., Flatiron District AGES: All WHAT: Find out how family photos can help you discover and document your family’s history. WANT TO GO? 917-606-8217. familyday.bpt.me.
Folding Fun at MoMath with OrigamiUSA FREE
ANIMAL LOVERS Kids Week: Birds of Prey FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, April 24, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Inwood Hill Park: Payson Park House, Payson Avenue and Dyckman Street, Inwood AGES: 3-12 WHAT: See if you can spot any birds of prey in New York City parks. WANT TO GO? 212-628-2345. nycgovparks.org.
Central Park Discovery Walk for Families: Harlem Meer FREE
WHEN: April 21-25, Sunday and Thursday, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, Fifth Avenue between 104th and 105th streets, Upper East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: See the plants and animals that live in the Harlem Meer today, and how the conservancy cares for this complex ecosystem. WANT TO GO? 212-310-6600. nycgovparks.org.
Kids Week: Bug Hunt FREE
WHEN: Thursday, April 25, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Dana Discovery Center, Central Park at 110th Street, East Harlem AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Search for insects to discover their important connection to us and the importance of parks to provide habitats for them. WANT TO GO? 212-860-1370. nycgovparks.org.
The Butterfly Conservatory: Tropical Butterflies Alive in Winter
WHEN: Through May 27: daily, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: This exhibition features up to 500 live butterflies housed in a vivarium that approximates their natural habitat. WANT TO GO? $28; $22.50 students and seniors; $16.50 children ages 2-12. 212-769-5800. amnh.org.
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 3 and older WHAT: An origami expert will teach simple origami models. WANT TO GO? $17; $14 ages 3-12, students, and seniors ages 60 and older; free for children 2 and younger. 212-542-0566. momath.org.
Sew a Fashionable Scrunchie
WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 3-4:30pm WHERE: The Fashion Class, 21 W. 39th St., 4th Floor, Midtown AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Learn how to sew with Singer machines and create two scrunchies. WANT TO GO? $40. 646-329-6663. midtown.thefashionclass.com.
Paper Sculptures with Tai Hwa Goh
WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 2pm and 3pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Construct 3-D objects using a honeycomb paper sculpture technique. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 seniors; $11 visitors with disabilities; free for children ages 1 and younger. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.
Fort Tryon Kids Art: Geological Abstract Painting FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park: Billings Lawn, Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Washington AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create abstract paintings based on geological formations found in Fort Tryon Park. WANT TO GO? 805-751-8465. tinkergarten.com.
Activism! Artmaking for April School Vacation Week
WHEN: April 20-28, daily, 1-3pm WHERE: New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Learn about ecological change and environmental activism and make a work of art using recycled materials. WANT TO GO? $21; $16 seniors, educators, and active military; $6 kids ages 5-13; free for children 4 and younger. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.
Banksy Art Class
WHEN: Through June 25: Tuesdays, 3-4pm WHERE: Playday, 122 E. 25th St., Kips Bay AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join this stencil class inspired by the works of Banksy. WANT TO GO? $35. 646-410-5743. gobambino.com.
SPECIAL NEEDS
SMARTY PANTS
New York City Parents’ Primer for Dyslexia for School-Aged Children
Cinematic Storytelling with Imaginary Forces FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, April 3, 7-9pm WHERE: OPERA America, 330 Seventh Ave., 7th Floor, Korea Town AGES: Adult WHAT: This panel presentation will help parents explore questions about dyslexia, literacy interventions, and education options. WANT TO GO? $45-$55. 917-382-8641. operaamerica.org.
Morning at the Museum FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 9-10:30am WHERE: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Morning at the Museum provides access for individuals with cognitive and sensory processing disabilities. WANT TO GO? 917-809-6732. cooperhewitt.org.
Music for Autism FREE
WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 2-3pm WHERE: Third Street Music School Settlement, 235 E. 11th St., East Village AGES: All WHAT: Hear an interactive concert developed specifically for individuals with autism and their families. WANT TO GO? 212-777-3240. thirdstreetmusicschool.org.
Seaver Autism Center: 2019 Family Appreciation Day FREE WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 1-3pm WHERE: Mount Sinai, 1468 Madison Ave., 5th Floor, East Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Join for musical performances, crafts, and more. WANT TO GO? 212-241-0961. icahn.mssm.edu/research/seaver.
TEARLESS: An Exhibition Featuring Artists with Familial Dysautonomia FREE
WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 4-7pm WHERE: Allouche Gallery, 82 Gansevoort St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: This art exhibition features artists with Familial Dysautonomia, with all proceeds benefitting the Familial Dysautonomia Foundation. WANT TO GO? 217-279-1066. familialdysautonomia.org.
Special Needs School Fair FREE
WHEN: Monday, April 15, 5:30-7:30pm WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: Adult WHAT: Representatives serving the special needs community provide information about the application process, class profiles, and tuition costs. WANT TO GO? 646-505-4444. jccmanhattan.org.
Cerebral Palsy Soccer FREE
WHEN: Through June 15: Sundays, 1-3pm WHERE: West End Secondary School, 277 W. 61st St., Upper West Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: This special program offers soccer training for kids with cerebral palsy, stroke, or traumatic brain injury who can walk and run independently. WANT TO GO? 347-328-3390. cpsoccer.us.
WHEN: Wednesday, April 3, 4:30-6:30pm WHERE: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St., Upper East Side AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Learn behind-the-scenes perspective on South Park and Stranger Things. WANT TO GO? 212-849-8353. cooperhewitt.org.
Family Day: Building Ornament
WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create your own building detail designs out of clay. WANT TO GO? $6; $12 children. 212-358-6133. centerforarchitecture.org.
History Hunters: A Kid’s Life at Work
WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge St., Lower East Side AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Discover what childhood was like 100 years ago on the Lower East Side. WANT TO GO? $5. 212-219-0302. eldridgestreet.org.
19th Annual NYC FIRST Robotics Competition FREE
WHEN: April 5-7, Friday-Sunday, 1:30-4pm WHERE: The Armory New Balance Track & Field Center, 216 Fort Washington Ave., Washington Heights AGES: All WHAT: Teams from around the world will compete in front of thousands WANT TO GO? 212-316-0315. firstinspires.org.
Unlimited
WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 6:30-8pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 9-17 WHAT: A math-focused night with dancing, cookies, and hot chocolate. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-542-0566. momath.org.
Watson Adventures: Wizard School Scavenger Hunt for Harry Potter Fans
WHEN: April 20-23, Saturday and Tuesday, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Head to the Metropolitan Museum in search of art that echoes characters and enchanted objects in the Harry Potter books. WANT TO GO? $31-$42. 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.
Germ City: Microbes and the Metropolis
WHEN: Through April 28: daily, 10am-6pm WHERE: Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Ave., East Harlem AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Explore the story of germs in New York WANT TO GO? $18; $12 seniors and students; free for those 19 and younger. 347-441-9181. mcny.org.
imagiNATIONS Activity Center FREE
WHEN: April 1-30, daily, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: National Museum of the American Indian, 1 Bowling Green, Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Explore Native scientific discoveries and inventions so ingenious many continue to affect the modern world. WANT TO GO? 212-514-3700. americanindian.si.edu. BigAppleParent 29
Funny Bunny Ears
WHEN: April 20-21, Saturday-Sunday, 1-2:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Make a fun bunny ear craft. WANT TO GO? $14 children and adults; $11 seniors; $11 visitors with disabilities; free for children ages 1 and younger. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.
The Amazing Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt
WHEN: Sunday, April 21, 2-5pm, 1:30pm registration WHERE: Slattery’s Midtown Pub, 8 E. 36th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: A series of clues leads you around the city WANT TO GO? $25. 718-344-8962. slatterysmidtownpub.com.
HOLIDAY FUN F. & A.M. Norsemen Lodge 878 1st Annual Breakfast with the Easter Bunny
WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 11am-2pm WHERE: Grand Lodge F & AM Trustees, 71 W. 23rd St., Flatiron District AGES: All WHAT: A fundraiser with an photo shoot, brunch, face painting, and caricaturist. WANT TO GO? $45; $15 children. 212-741-4520. nymasons.org.
Passover Family Day
WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 11am-4pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: A Passover extravaganza with ShirLaLa, and art projects. WANT TO GO? $18; $12 seniors; $8 students; free for children 18 and younger; free on Saturdays. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.
Carl Schurz Park 12th Annual Egg Hunt FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-1pm WHERE: Carl Schurz Park, East 87th Street and East End Avenue, Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Meet the Carl Schurz Bunny and receive an egg bag and glitter stamp. WANT TO GO? 212-459-4455. carlschurzparknyc.etapwss.com.
Easter Egg Hunt FREE
WHEN: Friday, April 19, 3:30-6pm WHERE: J. Hood Wright Recreation Center in J. Hood Wright Park, 351 Fort Washington Ave., Washington Heights AGES: All WHAT: Arts and crafts, spoon races, sack races, and the grand Easter Egg Hunt. WANT TO GO? 212-927-1514. nycgovparks.org.
FAO Easter Experiences FREE
WHEN: Through April 21: See website for schedule WHERE: Rockefeller Center Plaza, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Take photos with the Easter Bunny, do crafts, and get Easter manicures. WANT TO GO? 212-332-6868. rockefellercenter.com.
CMOM’s Annual Easter Scavenger Hunt
WHEN: April 20-22, Saturday-Monday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Search for hidden eggs to decode a color wheel Easter puzzle. WANT TO GO? $14 children and adults; $11 seniors; $11 visitors with disabilities; free for children ages 1 and younger. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.
Passover Week Art Workshop: Painted Wonders
WHEN: April 22-25, Saturday-Monday, 1-4pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Create your own art with a Passover holiday or springtime theme. WANT TO GO? $18; $12 seniors; $8 students; free children 18 and younger; free on Saturdays. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.
Embroidered Matzah Covers
WHEN: April 20-27, daily, drop-in between 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrate Passover by embroidering a unique matzo cover. WANT TO GO? $14 children and adults; $11 seniors; $11 visitors with disabilities; free for children ages 1 and younger. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.
SHOW TIME! The World Inside Me
WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 10am WHERE: New York City Fire Museum, 278 Spring St., Soho AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Take a picture with FDNY’s mascot, Hot Dog, and EMS’ mascot, Siren. WANT TO GO? $15. 415-394-6500. trumphotelcollection.com.
WHEN: Through April 7: Friday-Sunday, 1pm and 4pm (ages 2-4); Saturday-Sunday, 10am (ages newborn to 2) WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Times Square AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Join for interactive play, live music, dance, and visual effects to illustrate the inner life of our growing bodies. WANT TO GO? $20 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.
TNF’s Easter Egg hunt and Bunny Fun
La MaMa Kids: ‘The Three Dolls’
Annual Egg Hunt
WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 9:30am-2:30pm WHERE: Sakura Park, West 122nd Street and Riverside Drive, Morningside Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Do the hokey pokey, hunt for eggs, and meet the Easter Bunny. WANT TO GO? $30 per child. 917-830- 6485. tnfnyc.com. 30
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Through April 7: See website for show times WHERE: La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club, 66 E. 4th St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Through friendship, puppetry, songs, and musical riddles, three dolls go on a quest to turn darkness into light. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-254-6468. lamama.org.
‘Johannes Dokchtor Faust’
WHEN: Through April 7: Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., East Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The staging incorporates age-old technical tricks of Czech puppetry. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 seniors and students. 212-254-1109. theaterforthenewcity.net.
A Class Act NY Presents ‘The Addams Family’
WHEN: April 6-7, Saturday-Sunday, 4pm and 7:30pm WHERE: The Riverside Theatre, 91 Claremont Ave., Morningside Heights AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Everything will change for the Addams family when they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. WANT TO GO? $10. 212-315-3010. aclassactny.com.
A Class Act NY Presents ‘Shrek Jr!’
WHEN: April 6-7, Saturday-Sunday, 10:30am and 1pm WHERE: The Riverside Theatre, 91 Claremont Ave., Morningside Heights AGES: All WHAT: This production features young actors from an award-winning program. WANT TO GO? $10. 212-315-3010. aclassactny.com.
‘Last Stop on Market Street’
WHEN: Through April 13: Saturday-Sunday, 10:30am WHERE: Linda Gross Theater, 336 W. 20th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: A musical joy ride about finding beauty in everyday city life. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 866-811-4111. atlantictheater.org.
‘Tales from the Shed’
WHEN: Through April 13: Saturdays, 10:15am and 11:30am WHERE: Wetherby-Pembridge School, 7 E. 96th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Enjoy interactive theater, puppetry, music, and theatrical magic. WANT TO GO? $15; $50 for 4. 614-270-9991. t alesfromtheshed.brownpapertickets.com.
‘The Three Little Pigs’
WHEN: April 6-14, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: The timeless story of The Three Little Pigs—and the Wolf who huffs and puffs, but can’t blow one house down. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0886. gallitheaternyc.com.
LC Kids Presents ‘Scurry’: Trusty Sidekick Theater Company
WHEN: April 6-14, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Clark Studio Theater, 165 W. 65th St., New York AGES: 3-5 WHAT: A group of squirrels is faced with a newcomer who wants to join their party. WANT TO GO? $25. 212-721-6500. lincolncenter.org.
‘The Wizard of Oz: A Jazz Musical for All Ages’
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 3pm WHERE: Tato Laviera Theatre, 240 E. 123rd St., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: This production has a multi-racial cast and a jazzy underscore. WANT TO GO? $10-$20. 212-868-4444. wizardofozjazzmusical.com.
‘Rapunzel’
WHEN: April 27-28, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: The story of a young girl with magical hair. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Little Red Lighthouse Lantern Tour FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Fort Washington Park, 172nd Beach in Fort Washington Park, Upper Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Explore Jeffrey’s Hook lighthouse, which has become widely known as the children’s literary landmark The Little Red Lighthouse. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.
Wild Edibles Foraging in Inwood FREE
WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 2-3pm WHERE: The Nature Place Day Camp, 218th Street and Inwood Road, Inwood AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Learn plant names, properties, tastes, and uses in cooking WANT TO GO? 845-356-1234. thenatureplace.com.
Harlem Grown’s Earth Day Celebration FREE
WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 11am-3pm WHERE: Harlem Grown, 118 W. 134th St., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Learn green tips to implement more eco-friendly habits. WANT TO GO? 212-870-0113. harlemgrown.org.
Wilderness Skills: The Basics FREE
WHEN: Sunday, April 21, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Inwood Hill Park, Isham Street and Seaman Avenue, Inwood AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn tips and tricks to enhance your knowledge of the natural world. WANT TO GO? 212-628-2345. nycgovparks.org.
Kids Week: Geology Rocks! FREE
WHEN: Monday, April 22, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Inwood Hill Park, Isham Street and Seaman Avenue, Inwood AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Explore and examine rocks and climb a rock or two. WANT TO GO? 212-628-2345. nycgovparks.org.
Early Spring Children’s Gardening
WHEN: Through April 23: Mondays, 3:45-5pm WHERE: Children’s Garden, Rockefeller Park, 75 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Celebrate spring by digging and planting, learning about green practices, and composting. WANT TO GO? 5 sessions: $75. 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.
Central Park Discovery Walk for Families: Conservatory Garden FREE WHEN: Sunday, April 14 and Tuesday, April 23, 11am-12pm WHERE: Vanderbilt Gate at Conservatory Garden, Fifth Avenue between 104th and 105th streets, Upper East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join this kid-friendly guided walk through thousands of blooms in Central Park’s Conservatory Garden. WANT TO GO? 212-310-6600. centralparknyc.org.
Watson Adventures: ‘Hamilton’: The Family Scavenger Hunt
WHEN: Friday, April 26, 11am-1pm WHERE: Watson Adventures Meet-Up Location, Broad Street and Exchange Place, Financial District AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Follow in Alexander Hamilton’s footsteps through the streets of Lower Manhattan. WANT TO GO? $17.50-$21.50. 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com. BigAppleParent 31
A Birthday Bash for Less You don’t have to break the bank to throw a memorable party for your child. Party planners ››
and parents who’ve been there share their top tips for keeping costs down.
A
birthday and the accompanying party are a big deal for kids. That’s no surprise—after all, what’s not to love about cake and presents? Thanks to the Internet (and especially Instagram and Pinterest), you can find plenty of inspiration when it’s time to plan your child’s annual celebration. But some of those stunning decor, activity, and food options you’ll spot online require hours of painstaking work—and often, hefty price tags, too. It can be easy to DIY yourself to exhaustion or exceed your budget, but that’s not necessary. “Children will have fun no matter what,” points out Rehaab Zohny, director of operations at Gymtime Rhythm and Glues in Manhattan. If you’re on a budget (of time or money…or both), you can still throw a blowout party—we spoke with moms, dads, and party planning pros, to get their very best tips for hosting a birthday party that’ll deliver Instagram double-taps without breaking the bank.
Take advantage of your location.
If your child was born in a temperate month, you’ve hit the jackpot living in the New York metro area. “For twenty-five dollars, plus a processing fee, you can get a permit for various locations across NYC parks and dress the party to any theme you like,” says Manhattan mom Noelle Pileggi. That’s just one of many outdoor options. You can do a carousel party in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park (with wristbands that get kids unlimited rides), suggests Louise Simon, a Brooklyn mom of two. For years, Paul Lyren checked the calendar for Brooklyn street fairs scheduled near his son’s birthday—especially ones with bouncy castles. “For a smoking ten-dollar bill you buy your kid a wristband that lets them bounce all day. So, a ten-kid party costs a hundred dollars, plus a cake and pizza, and you are out for under a hundred and fifty dollars!” Lyren says. You can also petition the city to close down your street, then rent a bouncy castle yourself, he adds. 32
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
By Madeleine Burry
There are still plenty of options for kids born in colder months: try the skating rink, a bowling alley, or hand out a roll of quarters to each attendee at an arcade. Or, go DIY-free and head to a party destination. This can offer some real perks. For one, you don’t need to worry about setup—or cleanup, Zohny notes. Another option is to host at home. An indoor, at-home party means you won’t need to have a weather back-up plan.
Figure out a theme.
A theme really ties the party together, says Julie Ontaneda of My Classic Party, an event planning and styling company in Rye. That’s true even if it’s very simple, such as a color or your kid’s favorite things, she says. “A theme allows for simple touches, like theme-named food items, that are Pinterest-worthy and memorable without breaking the bank,” Ontaneda says. Save more by going all out in only a few select areas, she recommends. You can also encourage guests to get involved, suggests Amy Spielholtz, a Manhattan mom. For her daughter’s birthday, the theme was The Enchantment Under the Sea Dance, and guests were encouraged to dress as their favorite Back to the Future character or sea creature. “We were surprised by how many people got into it and it made things so much more festive as a result,” Spielholz says.
Choose an activity.
An activity is often the priciest aspect of a party, Ontaneda says, so start there, then see what’s left in your budget. If you’re doing the event at a destination, this step may already be taken care of. If not, you can hire someone, or figure out a fun, age-appropriate activity. “When it comes to entertainment, do a treasure hunt. It can last a long time, the treasure can be things on the less expensive side, and the children will have a ball. Play musical chairs or musical statues—fun doesn’t have to be expensive,” says Lucy Harris, mom and
CEO of Hello Baby Bump, which is based in Queens. In fact, doing too many activities, and overly complicated ones, can lead to a party that feels rushed and chaotic, Zohny says. “Keep it basic and simple for the best outcome,” she recommends. And remember: An activity can sometimes outlast the big event. “I wanted some type of activity, but I wasn’t looking to pay for an entertainer or rent equipment,” Spielholtz says—so for around a hundred dollars, she bought a ball pit holder and hundreds of balls online. She says she sees it as an investment—the ball pit is stashed at her daughter’s grandparents’ house for occasional play, and it will be available to use again at birthday parties for several years to come.
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Trim your guest list.
It’s tempting to invite all your friends, along with your kid’s whole class. Resist! Keeping the guest list trimmed down means fewer decorations, fewer cupcakes, and fewer supplies, Harris says. “Keep the guest list small, figure out the maximum number you want, and talk with your child about who they want,” Harris says. But if you really crave a big bash (or if your kid’s school or day care requires that every kid get invited), “consider a joint party with a friend,” Ontaneda suggests. It’s “half the cost and double the fun!” Consider skipping paper invites, too, Harris urges, and opt for text messages and Facebook invites instead.
For more info: birthdays@appleseedsplay.com
• LEGO®-based STEM & Robotics Camps • In-School and After-School Classes
Benefit from other parents’ parties.
Party supplies await on Facebook marketplace and local Facebook groups, says Kristin Fuerst, mom of two. “You can often find someone unloading their used (but perfectly fine) party stuff at a big discount, and you might be able to score some cool things you might not otherwise have been able or willing to spring for,” Fuerst says. Let your friends lend a hand, too. Nearly any parent will understand that you don’t always have the space to stash endless chairs and other big items. Borrow items from friends and family, and “when people offer to help out, there is nothing wrong accepting it,” Harris says.
• Fun and Exciting LEGO® Birthday Parties • Serving children ages 3-12+ throughout New York City
Party with the
Theater
Don’t forget to enjoy yourself!
If you’re stressed, it’ll show. Same goes if you’re enjoying yourself. “If you’re having a good time, your guests will have a good time,” Zohny says. Bottom line: few people will remember the decor and cake. What’ll stick is if the event is fun. “Remember, it’s for the children! Make sure they are having fun and you are there every step of the party enjoying just as much as they are. They only turn this age once!” Zohny says. Madeleine Burry is a freelance writer and editor who has held staff positions at Parents. com, Scholastic, and About.com. Burry lives in Brooklyn with her husband and their cat.
Children’s Theater
Live theater birthday parties Galli Theater NY 74 Warren Street | New York, NY
212-731-0668 galliny@gmail.com | gallitheaternyc.com
Kids Party Entertainment
Face Painting, Cotton Candy, Balloon Animals, Magic, Games & Dancing NYC Birthday Clowns • (646) 961-4808 NYCBirthdayClowns@gmail.com • www.NYCBirthdayClowns.com
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Birthday Party Directory Birthday Party Entertainment BOLD Arts
Upper East Side and Upper West Side 419-349-2465 bold-arts.com; info@bold-arts.com BOLD Arts offers fun and personalized dance birthday parties for children ages 4 and older! You provide the space and BOLD will provide a memorable, high-energy dance party. BOLD Birthdays are a unique way to celebrate with dance and friends.
Clowns.com
Proudly serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000, 718-971-5862 clowns.com At Clowns.com, our goal is to create an unforgettable and memorable party experience for you and your family. We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals.
Dave’s Cast Of Characters
914-235-7100 davescast.com Make your party a special one! Dave’s entertainment services include more than 100 costumed characters. From princesses and superheroes to pirates and tea parties. We feature DJs, clowns, magicians, face painters, balloon sculptors, photo booths, food carts, spectacular inflatable attractions, water slides, and new robotic animals.
Mystery & Mayhem
212-260-2295 mysteryandmayhem.com mitzvahzoe@aol.com Mystery & Mayhem offers hilarious, interactive, age-appropriate dress-up mystery parties in which guests ages 8-18 become suspects in a crime. Choose from five mysterious, winning dramas or a Nancy Drew, Sherlock Holmes, or Harry Potter theme.
NYC Birthday Clowns
646-961-4808 nycbirthdayclowns.com nycbirthdayclowns@gmail.com New York’s favorite kids party entertainment! We come to you with two entertainers, face painting, bal-
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loon animals, cotton candy, games, dancing, bubbles, a crowning ceremony, music, and magic. Best value in New York, best entertainment in the world! Birthdays, religious events, day care or school parties, block parties, any party!
Birthday Party Places 92Y
1395 Lexington Ave. 212-415-5710 92y.org/birthday; parties@92y.org Gymnastics party? Done that. Dance party? (Yes!) Pool party with all the lifeguard backup you’ll ever need? We got you. Kids channeling their inner Cirque du Soleil in an epic, afternoon penthouse bash? No worries. Talk to us about the many possibilities for celebrating your little one’s next big day.
apple seeds
10 W. 25th St. 212-792-7590 200 West End Ave. 212-792-7591 6 Stuyvesant Oval 212-253-3643 appleseedsplay.com apple seeds parties are led by a songs for seeds guitarist and include a themed performance, playground access, and fun activities. It’s a full-service package. All-inclusive packages start at $925. Ultimate party packages are also available for exclusive use of the entire apple seeds space. Visit appleseedsplay.com today!
Ballet Academy East
1651 Third Ave. 212-410-9140 Danielle Cortier, birthday party coordinator balletacademyeast.com Birthday parties begin with a personalized ballet class with live piano accompaniment. Refreshments are served in a separate studio after the class. Parties are staffed with teachers, a party host, and pianist. A party favor for guests, balloons, and table and chair rental included.
BLUE MAN GROUP
Astor Place Theatre, 434 Lafayette St., Noho 800-BLUEMAN (258-3626) blueman.com/nycbirthday Celebrate your birthday at Blue Man Group New York! Rock, laugh, and party at Astor Place
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
Theatre. Save $20 per ticket for select performances. Groups of more than 10 receive complimentary e-vites, birthday greeting inside theater, spin art canvas created by the Blue Men, and show posters for each guest. Visit blueman.com/nycbirthday.
Bricks 4 Kidz®
646-927-9129 bricks4kidz.com/450 bricks4kidzny@gmail.com Celebrate your child’s next birthday with a fun and exciting LEGO® party! The timeless fun of LEGO® bricks is a crowd pleaser for boys and girls of all ages. We offer several party packages that include LEGO® games and builds, plus bricks galore to keep your little builders happy.
Broadway Dance Center Children and Teens
37 W. 65th St., 3rd floor 212-582-9304 broadwaydancecenter.com Your birthday dancer and guests are sure to love a birthday party set in our beautiful, spacious studios. The one-and-a-half hour party includes dance class, games, instructor and assistants, a special gift for the birthday child, setup, and cleanup. Choose a favorite theme and party package that fits your needs.
Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex
Summer Camps West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Field House Registration Desk: 212-336-6500 x6520 chelseapiers.com/birthday When it’s time to celebrate a birthday, Chelsea Piers has you covered. All parties are action-packed, entertaining, and hassle-free, with more sports, more activities, and more fun than any other party venue in NYC. Adult birthday parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, and Sweet 16s are available. Plan your party today at chelseapiers.com/birthday.
Child’s Play NY
347-759-6313 childsplayny.com childsplaynyny@aol.com Customized parties are a celebration of what your child loves most. Joyful party games are tailored to fit the theme and make your child the star of the day. Professional actors help kids unleash their imagination. Discover why the parties are the top ranked on Google and in Time Out Kids!
Children’s Museum of the Arts
103 Charlton St. 212-274-0986 cmany.org/about/birthdays-rentals/birthdays Art-filled parties begin with time to explore the museum’s handson workshops. Experienced teaching artists lead children in your choice of private workshop. Parties end with food and cake.
Funfuzion at New Roc City
29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle Party Central: 914-637-7575, option 1 funfuziononline.com Calling all birthday superstars! You will be dazzled by a unique, interactive party experience! Act one begins with a dazzling, interactive show where everyone is a star! There will be eating, singing, dancing, and prizes! Act two is filled with your choice of action-packed amusements!
Galli Theater
74 Warren St. 212-731-0668 gallitheaternyc.com galliny@gmail.com Party with the Galli Theater New York. Does your child love the theater and would love to be on stage? Are they dreaming of a birthday party their friends will rave about for years to come? Allow your child to experience the most amazing theater party in town!
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue 646-381-5010 intrepidmuseum.org groupsales@intrepidmuseum.org Celebrate your child’s birthday with a one-of-a-kind party! The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum captivates groups of all ages and interests. Choose from exciting themes, value packages, and customization options to create an original birthday adventure they’ll never forget. Packages start at $30 per person.
Jodi’s Gym
244 E. 84th St. 212-772-7633 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 jodisgym.com Kids run, jump, climb, tumble, slide, bounce, and giggle to their hearts’ delight at Jodi’s Gym, where action-packed parties have won children’s hearts for 35 years. Teachers guide the children
on bars, beams, rings, slides, tunnels, a bounce house, and a tumble track. Then, it’s off to a separate area for refreshments.
Just Kidding at Symphony Space
2537 Broadway 212-864-1414 x289 symphonyspace.org/events/series/77/just-kidding Just Kidding parties are artsy, imaginative, and fun, designed to make party planning easy and engaging! Kids have the chance to interact with Just Kidding artists creating a once-in-a-lifetime birthday party experience. Post-show, kids can enjoy music, lunch, and cake made in-house by Symphony Space’s own personal chef.
Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy
917-270-7257 ktuga.com/birthday-parties mari@ktuga.com KTUGA’s parties are customized to your child’s interests. Think Pirate Golf Fun to Princess Castle Chipping. Ideal for ages 3-8. Select from different activities to highlight our golf games including storytelling, shadow screen play, and music and movement.
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 A private party at The Little Gym is a perfect way to celebrate your child’s next birthday. The one-anda-half hour parties are supervised by our trained, professional staff from beginning to end. Gymnastics, games, obstacle courses, a trampoline, sports, and music are tailored to your child’s interests.
Martial Arts Family Studio
290 Mulberry St. 646-460-3770 martialartsfamilystudio.com info@martialartsfamilystudio.com At Martial Arts Family Studio we will be delighted to organize your child’s birthday party so you can focus on your guests. We offer music-, theater-, and puppet- based birthday parties for the little ones and dance or martial arts birthday parties for older kids.
The Shoe Tree What do you look for in a Shoe Store? • Friendly service • Huge inventory • Knowledgeable staff • Proper fit for all: birth to adult • Frequent buyer program • Socks, hats, jewelry, sunglasses, rain gear
NY CAKE
118 W. 22nd St. 212-675-2253 nycakeacademy.com info@nycakeacademy.com New York Cake Academy is the ultimate destination for private events. Have a unicorn-themed adventure or take off with a galaxy cake that everyone will talk about for weeks to come. Let NY Cake Academy take care of everything for you.
Palisades Climb Adventure
4590 Palisades Center Drive, Level 4 of the Palisades Center, West Nyack 845-727-3500 palisadesclimb.com Palisades Climb Adventure offers the world’s tallest indoor ropes challenge course with 75 unique challenge elements to explore, climb, and conquer. Our Sky Tykes kids’ ropes course is designed for ages 2-7. Both courses are available for birthday parties. Book your party today!
USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Flushing 718-760-6200 x0 ntc.usta.com
Let the National Tennis Center host your next birthday party. Our birthday party packages include one hour of court time with tennis drills and games organized by our USTA Pro staff. You will also have a one-hour private room for your birthday celebration which includes pizza for all your party guests.
Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zoos and Aquarium
1-800- 433-4149 The Bronx Zoo: 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Central Park Zoo: 830 Fifth Ave. Queens Zoo: 53-51 111th St., Corona Prospect Park Zoo: 450 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn New York Aquarium: 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn wcs.org/birthdays Make your wildlife lover’s birthday an unforgettable experience with a party at our zoos or aquarium! Parties include park admission, a private party room with host, special animal guests, visits to our exhibits, and hands-on activities to make your party animal’s birthday a truly unforgettable experience!
Hours
2876 Broadway | New York, NY 10025 212-280-1711 theshoetreeonline.com
Monday–Saturday
11am–6:30pm
Sunday
Facebook: The Shoe Tree | theshoetree@earthlink.net
11am–6:00pm
THE SHOE TREE HAS ALL THIS AND MORE! Convenient NYC location Broadway between 111th St. and 112th St. #1 subway, M4 & M104 buses
2019 Hands-on summer program where you build what you want! Projects include: robotics, wearable tech, and smart devices! No experience required For students 8th-12th grade Flexible program lengths of 2-6 weeks 60 E 78th St New York, NY 10075
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www.bluestampengineering.com BigAppleParent 35
raising kids baby
Potty Training 101
››
Getting your kids out of diapers can be a frustrating—but ultimately rewarding—task. Here’s how to make the experience as smooth as possible. By Barbara Russo
P
otty training is a big step in your child’s development. It’s a very important milestone for both you and your toddler. But how do you know it’s time for your little one to make the transition from diapers to toilet? We spoke to some potty-training experts, and they agree that watching for the signs is key. “The biggest factor contributing to the success of potty training is the readiness of the child. The average age of readiness varies between twenty-two and thirty months,” says Devan Van LanenWanek, M.D., of Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park. “Some subtle signs that your kid wants to learn how to use the toilet are showing interest in other people’s bathroom habits and expressing disgust at their dirty diapers.” Additionally, your child needs to be able to hold her bodily functions, communicate her need to go, undress and redress, and wash her hands on her own, Dr. Van Lanen-Wanek says. So now that you’ve established a solid foundation of readiness, here are some tips to keep in mind for making the potty-training experience a smooth one for both you and your child.
Don’t Force It
Pressuring your child to begin potty training before he’s ready 36
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
can be disastrous. “One study found that initiation of toilet training before twentyseven months was not associated with earlier completion of toilet training success,” Dr. Van Lanen-Wanek says. “This suggests there is little benefit to starting before this age.” But if your child shows signs of readiness before, there’s no harm in starting then.
Don’t Get Frustrated
Keep in mind that the process of potty training can take a long time and have many ups and downs. “The average length of toilet training is six to seven months, tends to be longer for boys than girls, and also longer in first-born children than subsequent children,” Dr. Van Lanen-Wanek says. “Remember that every kid is unique and develops at their own pace.”
Be Consistent
Once you move out of diapers, it’s important not to go back, says Wendy Goldstein, a teacher at the 92Y Parenting Center in Manhattan. “Know that there will be accidents, and it’s not a big deal,” Goldstein says. “When a child does have an accident, it helps her understand what it’s like to be wet. The goal is to try to get her to understand what’s happening. Children don’t generally like the
feeling of being wet, so this trains them for what their bodies need.” Jody Bernstein, another teacher at the 92Y Parenting Center, adds that when accidents do happen, encourage your child to help you clean up. “You may need to set aside some time to focus on toilet training for a weekend or holiday break,” Bernstein suggests. “Stay close to home as you work on this. Let your child be naked or wear just underpants.”
Make a Tool Kit
One of the biggest challenges of potty training is figuring out how to prevent accidents. They’re messy, time-consuming situations that no parent is thrilled to deal with. “To alleviate this, parents need to make sure they have all the supplies needed to be successful, as well as a clear plan of action before they begin, rather than the ‘let’s just wing it’ approach,” says Kaylee Sallak, founder of Parenting Made Joyful Lifestyle, and teacher of parenting classes at Buy Buy Baby. Sallak recommends the following supplies for your tool kit: • A small potty chair • An insert for the big potty • A squatty potty stool to go under a big potty • Thick cloth underwear • Lose pants that have no zippers or buttons • A timer • Potty books • Potty songs • Tangible rewards (like candy) • Cleaning supplies ready for messes • Plastic bags with you always • Spare clothes with you always And as for the plan of action? “It needs to be decided upon ahead of time and agreed upon by both parents and any caregiver so there is consistency across the board,” Sallak says. “Whatever approach is selected, it should be a solid three days of no plans whatsoever to focus completely on getting a strong start to potty training.”
The IDEAL Difference
IDEAL is New York’s only K-12 independent inclusion school, where we celebrate the tremendous social, emotional, and academic growth born in a diverse and nurturing educational community. Learn more about IDEAL’s rigorous and differentiated program, social justice curriculum, and unique inclusion program at a spring Open House.
LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE, Grades K-5: Wednesday, April 10, 2019, 9 AM UPPER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE, Grades 6-12: Wednesday, April 17, 2019, 9 AM The Lower School 314 West 91st Street The Upper School 270 West 89th Street Contact us at admissions@theidealschool.org or 212-769-1699
www.theidealschool.org
WHERE THERE’S A Y
THERE’S A WAY
Bedtime Considerations
Nighttime should have special considerations, according to the experts. Craig Hammond, founder and CEO of Peejamas, functional pajamas designed to eliminate the need for nighttime diapers, recommends establishing a routine at night that includes going to the bathroom before bed and limiting fluid intake in the evening. “Parents don’t need to force their child to completely fast from water or fluids at night, but definitely start winding it down after dinner,” Hammond says. “This helps to limit fluid building in the bladder, potentially leading to a release during the night. Coupled with the routine of going potty prior to bed, this will help your child learn.” Hammond also recommends—if possible—not using a diaper at night, just as your child wouldn’t in the day time during potty training. “Putting a child back in a diaper during the night, is inconsistent and contrary to the daytime training recommendations,” Hammond says. “Of course, this can lead to potential messes, which there are solutions to avoid that, and may not be realistic for children with individual needs. But if you can do it, it is a much better way to help them really nail the nighttime phase of potty training.” Potty training your child can be fun and rewarding, but as with all things, should you have any concerns or questions, call your child’s doctor or health-care provider. Barbara Russo is a freelance writer who holds a bachelor’s degree in communications
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raising kids teen
Experts suggest taking cues from your environment to broach uncomfortable topics with your teens. For example, if characters in a show or movie you’re both watching are smoking or drinking, it’s an opportune time to talk to your teen about drugs and alcohol use.
Awkward Talks
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As our kids get older, it’s time to have conversations that make us uncomfortable. Here’s how to approach those topics—and get your teens to open up. By Lambeth Hochwald
I
f it feels like your heart-to-hearts with your teen have ground to a halt, take solace in the fact that this is par for the course. Blame it on the teenage brain that’s going through incredibly important changes that ultimately help prepare kids to function in the adult world, says Teodora Pavkovic, a psychologist and parenting coach in New York City. “Not only does this have a psychological impact, but a physical one, too, which can be really scary for kids,” she says. Get ready for these changes to take several years to shake out. “The brain won’t stop going through this rollercoaster of a ride until kids are about twenty-five and brain change stabilizes,” Pavkovic says. We asked top experts to sketch out what kids are going through at this age and offer some key tips for getting your child to actually open up and talk about even the most uncomfortable of topics.
Keep in Mind, It’s a Phase
The teenage years are the time when kids develop their own identity, says Stephanie Nilva, executive director of Day One New York, an organization in NYC that counsels survivors of intimate partner violence. “At the same time, their personalities haven’t been fully formed. Remember: It’s their role and responsibility to be testing boundaries, to be exploring, to be figuring out what their identity is.” 38
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
Start Young
If your kids haven’t hit the teen stage quite yet, now’s the time to build trust with them. Then, when they’re older, make sure your overall concern for their health and safety comes first. “In other words, urge them to talk to you even if you’re upset that your teen violated an understanding you had,” Nilva says.
It’s Okay if Your Teen Prefers to Talk to Peers
Another change that comes with parenting teens is your kids may prefer to talk to their peers instead of you, says Amy Alamar, a parenting expert in Avon, CT, and author of The Parenting Project: Build Extraordinary Relationships with Your Child Through Daily Conversation. “It can be awkward to talk to your teen if the conversation feels forced or inauthentic,” she says. “It’s natural for teens to prefer to talk to their peers and keep some things private. That’s okay and healthy for your teen but don’t give up. You always want to keep working on better ways to communicate one-on-one with your teen.”
Be Direct About Hygiene
The best way to talk about almost anything with your teen is to be open and direct, Alamar says, and this comes into play, especial-
ly, with a topic such as personal hygiene. “Don’t beat around the bush,” Alamar says. “Of course, with hygiene and other touchy topics you’ll make the most impact if you broach it in a positive or lighthearted way and avoid sarcasm. ...Help your teen to see this is a state of humanity and not a reflection on who they are as a person.”
Speak Up About Vaping and Drugs
When it comes to the topic of alcohol, smoking, vaping, or drug use of any kind, you have two goals: Be clear about why you’re concerned and don’t shelter your child from the subject. “It’s better your child learns about risky behavior from you as it offers you the ability to share your values and expectations,” Alamar says. “It also shows your child that you are a trusted adult they can come to.” While this doesn’t mean you should avoid consequences, Alamar suggests the conversation should be more about the experience. “Your goal is to help your child to understand the real dangers and your concerns,” she says. “Listen to find out why your child chose to do this or is thinking about it...and help your child to find alternative behaviors and/or help him or her to feel comfortable coming to you.”
‘The Talk’ Looks Different from When We Were Teens
When it comes to talking about sex, the easiest tip is to use the environment around you for these conversations, like a a song you hear or a character from a film, Pavkovic suggests. “Ask your teen very open-ended questions,” she says. “The two most important things here are that one: they feel you are emotionally calm and stable while you speak to them, and two: they feel your respect for their subjective experience.” In other words, time your talk. “Don’t start these conversations…right after coming back from work exhausted or right after finding inappropriate texts on your child’s phone,” she adds. “You need to be the stabilizing factor for them.”
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Be Supportive Even If You Don’t Like Your Child’s Friends
Remember: The core struggle for teens is their need to belong to their peer group, Alamar says. “This means you should try to support friendships as best you can so your child can learn to have intimate relationships and build trust outside of just the immediate family,” she says. “If you want to raise an independent adult who can sustain meaningful relationships, then you have to offer opportunities for your child to explore relationships—even ones you are suspect of.” If you judge your teen’s friends, she may take personal offense so tread lightly. “If you’re having trouble accepting your teen’s friends, consider inviting them to your home or see if you can get to know their families,” Alamar suggests. “In the end, your child is going to choose their friends, and the more you judge, the less likely they are to come to you with questions, concerns, or things to celebrate.”
KNOW A KID WHO LOVES TO READ?
Remember: You Won’t Have All the Answers
When you’re parenting during this phase, give yourself permission to be vulnerable, Pavkovic says. “Be kind to yourself by going into this phase knowing that you don’t know all the answers,” she says. “The important thing is to get the conversation going and to be able to say, ‘You know what, this is a tough one and I may not know what to tell you, but let’s talk it out anyway.’” It’s also key to keep your child’s strengths in mind. “This is your most powerful tool,” she says. “As you try to help them with each challenge they face, if you know their strengths you can coach them through using these strengths to resolve these issues.” No pressure, but the steps you take now will forever make a difference in your teen’s life “by teaching them how to help themselves once they are living out there in the world without you,” Pavkovic says. Lambeth Hochwald is a NYC-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in the city.
Thalia Book Club Camp is a unique program geared toward avid readers and writers ages 9–14.Campers meet with authors, take part in book discussions, engage in writing, drama, drawing, and go on cool book-related field trips around Manhattan. SYMPHONYSPACE.ORG/CAMP | 212.864.1414 X221
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Camps for Older Kids Atlantic Acting School
76 Ninth Ave., suite 537 212-691-5919 atlanticactingschool.org/kids-andteens/summer education@atlantictheater.org Summer Young Actors at Atlantic is for ages 11–14 with three programs to choose from. Spend your days acting in front of a camera, exploring the world of acting through scenes, or building musical theater techniques. All classes culminate in a final performance.
BlueStamp Engineering
60 E. 78th St. 516-331-1085 bluestampengineering.com jessie@bluestampengineering.com At BlueStamp Engineering students gain hands-on experience building individual technology projects from scratch. Every student builds two projects to keep and a portfolio to share with prospective colleges and employers. No experience required. Whether your passion is robotics, coding, biotech, or alternative energy— BlueStamp can help you build it.
Breakaway Hoops
646-776-2021 x0 office hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm breakawayhoops.com info@breakawayhoops.com Breakaway Hoops is a Manhattan-based basketball company offering youth (ages 5-15) fundamental basketball instruction through camps, leagues, and clinics year-round. We offer weekly, themed summer day basketball camps from June-August. Weekly camps consist of Shooting Camp, Core Skills Camp, Triple Threat Camp, and NBA Player Camps.
Bricks 4 Kidz®
646-927-9129 bricks4kidz.com/450 bricks4kidzny@gmail.com Bricks 4 Kidz NYC Camps are fun and educational! Inspire your child to dive into their imagination and demonstrate creativity with awesome, educational builds and activities. We will take a thrilling journey through Jurassic Brickland, Galaxy Far Away, Brick City Engineers, Mining and Crafting, Transformation Creation, Super Hero Academy, and Robotics!
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Camp Kids ‘N Comedy at The Gotham Comedy Club
208 W. 23rd St. 212-877-6115 kidsncomedy.com info@kidsncomedy.com Camp Kids ‘N Comedy is for kids ages 10-18 who are bored with kayaks, sick of poison ivy, and allergic to everything. It is a summer camp for kids who are funny. They will learn to write and perform stand-up comedy, play improv games, and re-enact scenes from comedy sketches.
Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex
Summer Camps West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Field House Registration Desk: 212-336-6500 x6520 Camps: 212336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Chelsea Piers Summer Camp is NYC’s most flexible camp with up to 11 weeks and 16 sports to choose from. Our coaches are dedicated year-round to providing athletes with a fun and comprehensive camp experience. Transportation and aftercare available. Camps run June 17–Aug. 30. Register online at chelseapiers.com/camps.
China Institute
Children’s Immersive Summer Day Camp (Ages 2-14) 40 Rector St., 2nd floor 212-744-8181 x110 chinainstitute.org emarks@chinainstitute.org 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.
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
April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
212-737-3344 uppereastside@myeyelevel.com eyelevelny.com Don’t let your child suffer from “Summer Brain Drain!” Three months without 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 now to schedule a free diagnostic assessment.
JCC Manhattan Summer Camps
Camp Settoga 646-505-4430 jccmanhattan.org/campsettoga Camp Settoga is located in Pomona on 21 lush acres. Campers are provided with air-conditioned transportation, lunch, towel service, and a snack. Facilities include an Olympic-size swimming pool, adventure course, sports fields and courts. Leadership and service opportunities are available for older campers, as are day trips and late stays!
Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy
917-270-7257 ktuga.com/content/camps-and-special-programs-summer mari@ktuga.com Going East this summer? We return to Montauk Downs State Park for our ninth season! Children ages 3 and older play golf at one of the finest courses.
Modeling Camp
1535 Broadway 888-757-5575 modelingcamp.com modelingcamp@aol.com Modeling Camp invites girls to discover the model in you this summer as we explore the world of modeling and fashion in NYC. From photo shoot to fashion shows, personal grooming to health and fitness, making TV commercials and meeting top model scouts- girls learn about the industry in a non-competitive environment.
Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan Oasis in Central Park 795 Columbus Ave. 646-698-1800 Kirstin Spillman, director
Oasis in Downtown-P.S. 110 285 Delancey St. 649-519-5058 Stacey Soto, director oasischildren.com Teen Travel for seventh-ninth grades: amazing experiences and friends forever! Daily trips to destinations in Long Island and the New York area include: museums, go–karts, theater performances, sporting events, overnight trips, late-night socials, inter-camp challenges, amusement parks, and workshops. All trips on air-conditioned buses with mature staff.
Pierce Country Day Camp
Mineola Ave., Roslyn 516-621-2211 piercecamps.com info@piercecamps.com Our Super Senior program gives our oldest campers full run of all that Pierce has to offer and maximum choice in their schedule. Swim twice daily and our guided choice scheduling allows our oldest campers to choose from more than 30 different activities. Weekly off-grounds trips offered too!
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 Musical Theater Performance and Musical Theater Revue for middle school campers on the UWS. Campers put on a full production, make sets and costumes, and see a Broadway show. Audition Bootcamp (for seventh to 12th grades) helps kids prepare for auditions for specialized high schools and college.
SPORTIME Randall’s Island & JMTA Summer Camps - ages 4-17
212-427-6150 sportimecamps.com/nyc campsnyc@sportimeny.com John McEnroe Tennis Academy’s Summer Training Camp and SPORTIME’s 10 & Under Tennis Camp are designed for players who want to focus on playing and learning tennis, and becoming complete players. Every camp day includes tennis, field sports
Manan Island. Our goal is to use hands-on activities to increase awareness and understanding of natural systems. Campers build confidence, connect with the natural environment, and make lasting friendships.
and cross training, tennis-specific athletic training, and NYCFC Soccer Camps.
Sprout Creek Farm Summer Camp
34 Lauer Road, Poughkeepsie 845-485-8438 sproutcreekfarm.org camps@sproutcreekfarm.org Weekly day and sleepover camps for ages 5-14 from June 24– Aug. 16. Our STEAM camps are ‘SEED-to-table’ experiential adventures! Explore a life changing encounter fostering an appreciation for the earth, its beings, and our responsibility for its care. Located just off the Taconic State Parkway in the scenic Hudson Valley.
Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zoos and Aquarium 1-800- 433-4149 The Bronx Zoo: 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx Central Park Zoo: 830 Fifth Ave., Manhattan Queens Zoo: 53-51 111th St., Corona Prospect Park Zoo: 450 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn New York Aquarium: 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn wcs.org/camps Summer just got wild! Send your animal lover to summer camp at the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, and the New York Aquarium! Campers will enjoy up-close animal experiences, special access to our amazing exhibits, and age appropriate, hands-on STEM activities.
Thalia Book Club Camp at Symphony Space
95th and Broadway 212-864-1414 x221 thaliabookclubcamp@symphonyspace.org For kids ages 9-14 who love to read, Thalia Book Camp is a unique camp where kids get up close and personal with great authors five days a week, go on amazing book-related field trips around NYC, and make new friends who also can’t get enough of a good read.
Kids ages 2 to 14 years old
YMCA Summer Camps
ymcanyc.org/camp rho@ymcanyc.org The YMCA of Greater New York is one of the largest providers of camp programs in the city, with 70 Day Camp sites across five boroughs, a Sleepaway Camp upstate, and more than a century of experience giving kids the best summer ever! Where there’s a Y, there’s a way.
The Whale Camp
610-399-1463 whalecamp.com The Whale Camp provides experiential marine biology programs and facilities for learning about the dynamic ecologies of the Bay of Fundy and Grand
Modeling great perk s for membe rs
Summer Day camp
Gymnastics, fun, friends and fitness since 1982!
Gymnastics •
Ninja Challenge • Music • Playtime •
As featured on
MODELING CAMP
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NYC camp for girls ages 11-17
Jodi’s To Go • For Kids 9 mos to 12 yrs
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25 Hubbels Dr. Mt. Kisco • 914.244.8811 244 E. 84th St. NYC • 212.772.7633
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Call for more info:
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92Y Camps 92y.org
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Apple Seeds appleseedsplay.com Asphalt Green Day Camp asphaltgreen.org
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Ballet Academy East balletacademyeast.com
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BlueStamp Engineering bluestampengineering.com
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Music
Academic Enrichment
Day Trips
Swimming
Sports
Theater
STEAM/Robotics
PROGRAMS:
Half-Day
Flexible Scheduling
Extended Hours
Lunch
Transportation
Camp Guide
SERVICES:
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Future Stars Summer Camps fscamps.com
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Harbor Haven Day Camp harborhaven.com
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Launch Math & Science Centers launchmath.com
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Modeling Camp modelingcamp.com
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MWS Student Camps mwscamps.com
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New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts
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Portfolio School portfolioschool.org
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Oasis Day Camps oasischildren.com
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Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum intrepid.org
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OPEN HOUSES 2019 Chatty Child Speech & Occupational Therapy, P.L.L.C.
325 Broadway, Suite 403 347-491-4451 chattychild.com; info@chattychild.com Please e-mail info@chattychild.com to schedule a personal tour of our facilities that works best for your schedule.
Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex
Summer Camps West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Field House Registration Desk: 212-336-6500 x6520 Camps: 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Join us on Saturday, March 30 from 12:30–2pm for our Chelsea Piers Summer Camp Open House. Kids ages 3–12 partake in complimentary sports classes. Email camps@chelseapiers.com to RSVP.
The Ideal School of Manhattan
Upper West Side 212-769-1699 theidealschool.org; dbyrnes@idealschool.org Lower School Open House for kindergarten-fifth grades, Wednesday, April 10 at 9am, 314 W. 91st St., Upper School Open House for sixth to 12th grades, Wednesday, April 17 at 9am, 270 W. 89th St. RSVP to admissions@theidealschool.org.
Pierce Country Day Camp
Mineola Ave., Roslyn 516-621-2211 piercecamps.com; info@piercecamps.com See for yourself what makes Pierce a place that smiles! Stop in between 12–2pm, no appointment necessary, April 13 and 14, and May 4 and 5.
Pusteblume
International Preschool
212-206-1137 info@pusteblumenyc.org www.pusteblumenyc.org German and Spanish language immersion
Join us for Summer Camp fun!
NEW for the 2019/20 school year: Afternoon Preschool Programs
Check out our golf programs for kids ages 3 to 12 in NYC! ktuga.com
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals LEGAL SERVICES ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost. SHANNON MCNULTY, ESQ. LAW OFFICES OF SHANNON P. MCNULTY L.L.C. 1270 Sixth Ave., 7th Floor 212-431-7526 mcnulty-law.com shannon@mcnulty-law.com Attorney Shannon McNulty provides convenient, high-quality estate planning services for busy New York City parents. Ms. McNulty received her law degree from Georgetown Law and her LL.M. in taxation from NYU School of Law. SPECIAL NEEDS ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost. TUTORS & TEST PREP EYE LEVEL MANHATTAN 437 E. 12th St., East Village 212-260-8020 eastvillage@myeyelevel.com 104 Reade St., Tribeca 212-346-PREP (7737) info@rsprep.com 307 E. 84th St., Upper East Side 212-737-3344 uppereastside@myeyelevel.com eyelevelny.com Eye Level offers math and English programs for ages 3-14. Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic education, Eye Level is the answer.
raising kids ad index NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! acrobatics / gymnastics
Jodi’s Gym ...................................................................41 Little Gym .....................................................................5
birthday / party services
apple seeds ................................................................33 Big Apple Parent Party Planner ...................................45 Blue Man Group New York ...........................................9 Breakaway Hoops ......................................................35 Bricks 4 Kidz - NYC .....................................................33 Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ............................3 Jodi’s Gym ..................................................................41 Little Gym .....................................................................5 NY CAKE ....................................................................33 NYC Birthday Clowns .................................................33 Sportime .....................................................................24
camps
BlueStamp Engineering ..............................................35 Breakaway Hoops ......................................................35 Bricks 4 Kidz - NYC .....................................................33 Broadway Dance Center ............................................48 Camp Huntington ........................................................23 Chatty Child Speech Therapy PLLC ...........................19 Chelsea Piers ...............................................................7 Child’s Play NY ...........................................................41 China Institute .............................................................41 Gifted Kids Inc./Eye Level Learning Centers ................8 Harbor Haven ..............................................................19 Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ............................3 JCC of Manhattan .......................................................24 Jodi’s Gym ..................................................................41 Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy .......................44 Little Gym .....................................................................5 Modeling Camp ..........................................................41 Play On! Studios .........................................................24 Pusteblume International School .................................44 Sportime .....................................................................24 Sprout Creek Farm .....................................................13 Symphony Space .......................................................39 Whale Camp ...............................................................39 Wildlife Conservation Society .....................................15 YMCA of Greater New York ........................................37
classes
apple seeds ................................................................33 Ballet Academy East ...................................................24 BlueStamp Engineering ..............................................35 Bricks 4 Kidz - NYC .....................................................33 Broadway Dance Center ............................................48 Chelsea Piers ...............................................................7 Child’s Play NY ...........................................................41 China Institute .............................................................41 Ideal School (The) ......................................................37 JCC of Manhattan .......................................................24 Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy .......................44 NY CAKE ....................................................................33 Otto Specht School .....................................................22 Play On! Studios .........................................................24 School of American Ballet .............................................9 Sportime .....................................................................24 YMCA of Greater New York ........................................37
dance
Ballet Academy East ...................................................24 School of American Ballet .............................................9
developmental
Atlas Foundation for Autism ........................................21 Chatty Child Speech Therapy PLLC ...........................19 China Institute .............................................................41
education
Atlas Foundation for Autism ........................................21 BlueStamp Engineering ..............................................35 Gifted Kids Inc./Eye Level Learning Centers ................8 Gillen Brewer School (The) ........................................ 11 Hebrew Public Charter Schools ..................................23 Huntington Learning Center .........................................2 Ideal School (The) ......................................................37 Otto Specht School .....................................................22 Pusteblume International School .................................44
family entertainment / events / outings
Blue Man Group New York ...........................................9 Galli Theater ................................................................33 Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ............................3 NYC Birthday Clowns .................................................33 Wildlife Conservation Society .....................................15
fitness
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Sportime .....................................................................24
performing arts / acting
Broadway Dance Center ............................................48 Child’s Play NY ...........................................................41 Galli Theater ................................................................33 Play On! Studios .........................................................24 Symphony Space .......................................................39
play spaces
apple seeds ................................................................33
religious
JCC of Manhattan .......................................................24
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retail
NY CAKE ....................................................................33 Shoe Tree (The) .........................................................35
special needs
Atlas Foundation for Autism ........................................21 Camp Huntington ........................................................23 Chatty Child Speech Therapy PLLC ...........................19 Gillen Brewer School (The) ........................................ 11 Harbor Haven ..............................................................19 Huntington Learning Center .........................................2 Otto Specht School .....................................................22
sports
Breakaway Hoops ......................................................35 Chelsea Piers ...............................................................7 Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy .......................44 Sportime .....................................................................24 YMCA of Greater New York ........................................37
theater
Galli Theater ................................................................33 Symphony Space .......................................................39
tutors
Gifted Kids Inc./Eye Level Learning Centers ................8 Huntington Learning Center .........................................2
NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER BigAppleParent 45
SpecialParent Courtesy Stella L. Spanakos
raising kids voices
I Will Not Fail This Child ›› How I turned a tragedy into opportunities for young adults with special needs By Stella L Spanakos
W
hen people ask what it’s like to have a child with special needs, my response is: It’s like dark chocolate, bittersweet. My beautiful, healthy 9-pound baby boy was diagnosed with autism at age 3, from that day forward a revolving door of therapists came to our home every day until 6pm. To make matters worse, Nicholas never developed speech and started having seizures at age 17. When Nicholas was young, we wanted to believe he would “outgrow” autism, or science would find a “cure” for the diagnosis. But, as the years passed and reality set in, we started dealing better with the “what is” and “what needs to happen.” Three years before Nicholas was going to transition from high school to the real world, I started looking toward the next chapter of his life. What were his options? Day-hab, residential, supported employment? I visited many programs but started crying when I returned to my car after the tour. A tsunami of young adults on the autism spectrum would be transitioning in three years, with more going forward every year and New York state was most definitely not prepared. To discuss Nicholas’ future with my husband was painful. He could not accept that we had to carve out a different future for our son; one without a driver’s license, college, marriage, children, and grandchildren, but one that needed much thought and financial planning. Autism broke my husband’s heart, and then my heart was broken for a second time on June 7, 2010 when my husband boarded a business flight to Vegas, suffered a massive heart attack, and died at the age of 55. Kobi Yamada wrote a book called What Do You Do with a Chance? The moral of the story is, when given a chance, you always take it “because it just might be the start of something incredible.” And that’s precisely what I did. I had an opportunity to make the worst day of my life become
Stella L. Spanakos with her son Nicholas, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3
the beginning of something incredible to help Nicholas, his classmates, and many others. I decided to close my husband’s business, sell everything, and use the proceeds from his life insurance to start the Nicholas Center and Spectrum Designs Foundation, both located in Port Washington. The Nicholas Center supports individuals with autism to lead full and productive lives in the community. Spectrum Designs Foundation is an apparel customizing business, specializing in screen printing, DTG (Direct to Garment), and embroidery. My co-founders, Nicole Sugrue and Patrick Bardsley, and I experimented with our first DTG machine in my barn and never looked back. The relationship between the Nicholas Center and Spectrum Designs is the perfect example of how businesses can work with agencies to support employees with intellectual disabilities. Eighty percent of individuals with disabilities are unemployed but very capable of work. We started with both organizations in the same building, and one DTG machine printing 75 T-shirts a day. I used to pray that I could pay the bills and support our payroll during our first two years but as the saying goes: “build it and they will come,” and so they did. At the close of 2018, just eight years after opening our doors, Nicholas Center serves 85 families with vocational and community experiences, and Spectrum Designs’ client list has grown to include Uber, Google, NYU Langone Medical Center, Northwell Health, St. John’s University Law School, Town of North Hempstead, and MTA Metro-North. Spectrum Designs has impacted the lives of 70 individuals and their families and created more than 15,000 paid hours of meaningful work for individuals with autism.
Stella L. Spanakos co-founded The Nicholas Center Ltd., where she is the director of development, and Spectrum Designs Foundation. For more information about the Nicholas Center and Spectrum Designs Foundation, or to help change the world “one t-shirt at a time,” visit nicholascenterusa.org or spectrumdesigns.org.
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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com
What Makes a Great Camp Parent?
2019 CAMP GUIDE
LEARN FROM EXPERTS • 20 Lessons from Camp We Use Every Day • 10 Things Counselors Wish Parents DIDN’T Do • 8 Questions to Ask a Camp Director
NYMETROPARENTS.COM/CAMPGUIDE/MANHATTAN Available on Phone, Desktop or Tablet BigAppleParent 47
E C N A D S P M A C A G ES 3 - 1 4 2019
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Dance Camps are back at Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens! Join us for another great spring and summer of dance, games, craf t s, making new friends, and creating las ting memories. All levels welcome! SPRI NG: Two weeks to choose from (Mon-Fri) SUM M E R: Ten weeks to choose from (Mon-Fri)
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