Big Apple Parent October 2019 by City Guide NY

BigApple Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM OCTOBER 2019

Happy Halloween! Keeping kids safe while trick-or-treating Haunted houses, pumpkin patches, and more!

Wild Birthdays Three major party trends Surviving the Sweet 16 Plus, planning resources

Crafting the Perfect Baby Registry

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

BigAppleParent

CONFIDENCE

IN THE MAKING Connecting you to the best tutors to bring out the best in your child. 300+ Subjects Math English SAT/ACT Coding Science $50 Credit Towards Your First Month of Tutoring Code: BAP19 www.gooroo.com 646-791-3081

Official vendor of

Transforming How Children Learn Hands-on play with iPad • For kids 4–10 • Used in over 30,000 classrooms

real game pieces!

Masterpiece

Monster

Numbers

Tangram

Newton

Drawing

Creativity

Math

Puzzles

Physics

FREE

Get a free Osmo Sampler at:

How Osmo Works

playosmo.com/nyc available for a limited time only

Providing the Healthiest Screen Time Osmo combines tactile exploration with innovative technology by actively engaging children in the learning process. Whether your child is a music lover, budding coder, or aspiring mathematician, Osmo

When you draw or arrange game pieces in front of your iPad, your creations come alive on the screen!

has the right games to inspire your child. No commitment. No credit card required.

playosmo.com BigAppleParent 3

contents table of

october 2019

Safety Tricks (and Treats) for Halloween

Halloween Fun a Ride Away

Prepare your kids, so Halloween is safe and stress-free for everyone

birthdays 14 Wild and Wilder 16 Birthday Party Directory 46 The (Not-So) Sweet Season

Events to kick off the spooky season and guides for other fall activities

Can You Afford to Stay Home?

What to consider when deciding whether to go back to work or become a stay-at-home parent

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Safety Tricks (and Treats) for Halloween 12 Working with Your Nanny—When You Work from Home 18 Back-to-School Resources 36 Baby’s Wish List 40 The Disaster Zone 43 Professional Services, Open Houses 45 Advertisers’ Index

22 Halloween Fun a Ride Away

38 Moving Right Along

23 Family Activities Calendar

42 Can You Afford to Stay Home?

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 10 Keeping kids safe while trick-or-treating 14 Three major party trends 16 Planning Resources 22 Haunted houses, pumpkin patches, and more 36 Crafting the Perfect Baby Registry 46 Surviving the Sweet 16 facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

A Transformational High School Experience ATI offers an unparalleled high school experience, filled with hands-on learning

opportunities in an environment of expert mentors and ambitious peers. Our program prepares teens to reach their full potential so that they can excel in a world of unlimited possibilities.

VISIT US ONLINE TODAY TO RSVP FOR AN EVENT OR SCHEDULE A TOUR. Now Enrolling 7th to 12th Grade Academy of Thought and Industry 1 Avenue B New York, NY 10009

ATI091219

www.thoughtandindustry.com (917) 338-2820 BigAppleParent

raising kids editor’s note

OCTOBER 2019 • Vol.34 • No.9

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

It’s Spooky Season

risp air, cooler temperatures, and (soon) the changing of the leaves. Those are a few of our favorite things, but nothing beats our favorite fall holiday: Halloween! Some people celebrate their birthdays for the whole month, but we celebrate Halloween all month long—and affectionately refer to it as Spooky Season. (Though, if we’re being honest, we officially started celebrating on Friday the 13th.) In this issue, you’ll find a roundup of the best Halloween events in the community (p. 32), from spooky movie screenings to Halloween scavenger hunts, as well as a few can’t-miss celebrations a ride away (haunted hayride anyone?), to get you in a ghoulish mood (p. 22). Plus, you’ll find tips to keep your kids safe while trick-ortreating (p. 10). Bonus: We’re creating a Halloween e-book just for you, full of advice, 2019’s hottest costumes, places to celebrate, and more! Look for it on nymetroparents.com in early October. Speaking of celebrating birthdays all month long, this also happens to be our birthday issue! We spoke to moms, party planners, and trend experts to find the three most-popular party themes that break the mold—and provide tips for throwing them (p. 14). I didn’t have a huge bash for my Sweet 16—they weren’t really a thing in Maine. We likely celebrated with dinner at my favorite restaurant, followed by blueberry pie and presents at home. Looking back, I don’t mind that the affair was low-key— especially after reading about Suzanne Bergen’s experience. In “The (Not-So) Sweet Season” (p. 46), Bergen compares organizing her daughter’s Sweet 16 to planning her own wedding. Ultimately, though, it was all worth it. If you’re getting ready to plan a birthday party, make the best decisions for your child’s celebration by checking out the birthday party resources directory (p. 16). However you choose to celebrate (Halloween or birthdays), we hope it’s a blast! Katelin Walling Editorial Director

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

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

EDITORIAL

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

ADVERTISING SALES

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

STATEN ISLAND PARENT

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

MOMMYBITES

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Lauren Alperin Meirowitz 646-736-3609 EDITOR: Jennifer Rojas

OPERATIONS

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

PRODUCTION

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

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Waldo Tejada ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Anastasiya Borunova

Our Editors Find You the Best Events! When it comes to finding weekend fun with your kids, we make it easy for you! Our editors spend hours scouring the community for the best events happening. And every Thursday, you’ll receive a curated list of the best of what’s happening that weekend in Manhattan —from sports and theater to festivals and petting zoos. Sign up today at nymetroparents.com/newsletter!

FINANCE

CREDIT MANAGERS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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

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.

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 Fall Semester

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

raising kids new places, new programs

In addition to its kids’ programs, Treeb ath also offers Forest Therapy Walks for adults and families, which is a research-based practice used to alleviate stress through mindf ul, meditative walks.

ldstein, M.D., LLC

Who: Treebath What’s New: Five teachers were added to the Outdoor Team in August, plus a location at the north end of Liberty State Park in Jersey City opened Sept. 9. Oskar Elmgart, co-founder of Treebath, says the new teachers will allow the program to expand its offerings and bring more kids outside. The Outdoor Team is composed of educators and professionals in various disciplines who are either state-certified teachers or have experience working with children in day care or preschool environments. Treebath’s after-school programs are offered at local parks for children in pre-K to second grade on weekdays from 3:30-5:30pm. Each class incorporates one active, one mindful, and one cognitive learning component. Want More Info: Treebath Administrative Office, 224 5th Ave., Nomad; 203-529-5379; tree-bath.com

Courtesy Treebath

Outdoor Nature Program Adds Five Teachers, Expands to Jersey City

Who: Judy Goldstein, M.D., LLC What’s New: The practice, which opened in June. Dr. Goldstein is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience in general pediatrics. In addition to addressing the medical aspect of patient examinations, Dr. Goldstein also addresses kids’ physical, social, emotional, and behavioral development. Appointments for sick patients are given the same day. Regular visits are typically 45 minutes and are highly personalized, according to Dr. Goldstein. Dr. Goldstein has medical students from Drexel University shadow her at her practice, and she is an honorary police surgeon for the NYPD. Want More Info: 635 Madison Ave., 12th floor, Upper East Side; 646-7277373; judy@drjudygoldstein.com; drjudygoldstein.com

Courtesy Judy Go

Pediatrician Opens Private Practice on Upper East Side

the American D., is a member of Judy Goldstein, M. k County SociYor w Ne ics, of the Academy of Pediatr dicine. Me of my York Acade ety, and of the New

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Academy of Thought and

Who: Academy of Thought and Industry What’s New: The East Village location, which opened Sept. 3. The school is structured on the philosophy of integrating experiential and intellectual learning through opportunities for real creativity and work. Each ATI student is assigned a coach or staff member who works 1-on-1 with the student throughout their ATI experience and discusses progress or challenges in the student’s learning. ATI serves sixth-eighth grades and plans to open a high school program next year for seventh to 10th grades, according to Aramis Grant, assistant head of ATI. Want More Info: 1 Avenue B., East Village; 917-3382820; thoughtandindustry.com/manhattan

Industry

Secondary School Opens in East Village

“What makes our school special is our belief that every student can and should be empowered to achiev e their best and to be independent thinkers and learners,” said David Hyman, head of the new Academy of Thought and Indus try in the East Village.

We Inspire Students

to Become the Heroes of Their Own Journeys Igniting the spark of genius in every child and educating global leaders since 1872 Nursery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Grade 12 Register online to attend an open house

BigAppleParent

raising kids in the know

Safety Tricks (and Treats) for Halloween ›› By Jacqueline Neber

alloween is one of kids’ favorite nights of the year, but it can also present some scary situations. Walking in the dark, wearing costumes, and receiving candy from strangers can make kids vulnerable to danger. Fortunately, there are ways to prepare your kids so Halloween is safe and stress-free for everyone.

Travel in Numbers

When it comes to Halloween safety, there’s no substitute for parental supervision, says Chris Hughes, the chief of police at Northport Police Department in Suffolk County. Kids younger than 12 should not go trick-or-treating without an adult, adds Debra Holtzman, J.D., M.A., author of The Safe Baby, and a national child safety expert.

Stay Local

When kids are ready to go out on their own, they should not trickor-treat in any unfamiliar part of town, Hughes says. Knowing where they are, how to get home, and who to go to for help—such as a neighbor or other trusted adult in the neighborhood—is crucial. They should only go up to houses with lights on, keep their cellphones charged, and never go inside any home, Holtzman advises.

Be Careful About Candy

Make sure your child knows to never eat anything that is unwrapped or appears to be homemade, Hughes says. You should “discard any candy that is a choking hazard, or your child is allergic to, or that is not in its original wrapper, or looks as though it has been opened,” Holtzman adds.

Choose Costumes Wisely

“Children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year,” Holtzman says. Crossing the street carefully can help prevent car accidents—but costumes matter too. Kids should wear reflective tape on their costumes, and costumes should allow for 100-percent visibility. Consider face-paint instead of masks, Holtzman suggests, because it ensures they can see and won’t restrict breathing. Costumes should also be flame resistant, and short enough that kids won’t trip or fall.

Don’t Be Spooked

Halloween is and should remain a fun and festive holiday—as long as a few safety rules are in place. In general, Hughes says, kids should stay aware of their surroundings and avoid engaging with strangers. This will help everyone have more fun—even parents, who won’t have to worry while their kids trick-or-treat.

“It was a privilege to be a part of those magical classes and I will always cherish this very special time for me and my son.”

A nurturing program for young children and their caregivers in a safe, home-like environment. In a world that is increasingly adult

Parent and Child NYC

oriented and consumer oriented, and becoming more technical and less personal, there is a strong need to protect our children. The modern world also has many wonderful things to offer and we want our children to be able to healthily embrace them.

ParentandChildNYC.org 10

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WELCOME

欢迎

BIENVENIDOS

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

Helping students gain the skills, confidence and compassion to contribute and thrive anywhere in the world.

Join us for one of our Open Houses! Upcoming Open House Dates Wednesday, October 23 at 8:15am Wednesday, November 6 at 8:15am Wednesday, November 20 at 8:15am

Nursery-8th Grade

Fifth Avenue Building 206 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10010

Main Campus

111 East 22nd Street New York, NY 10010

www.theEcole.org

Spanish and Chinese tracks for Pre-Nursery (age 2) - Grade 8. COME TO AN OPEN HOUSE THIS FALL Registration required October 10th - 9:00am October 24th - 6:00pm November 6th - 6:00pm November 21st - 9:00am 4 East 90th Street

www.ianyc.org / 212-641-0260 BigAppleParent 11

THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF NEW YORK An exceptional global education for children from Nursery 3’s to Upper School

More than a school, it’s an education

raising kids child care

Working with Your Nanny—When You Work from Home ›› Courtesy Mommybites

PRIVATE TOURS OFFERED DAILY Visit www.bisͲny.org or call us to schedule (212) 481Ͳ2700/ 23rd St & East River

Confident Voices Our FREE After-School & Weekend Creative Arts programs for young people who stutter, ages 8-18.

SONGWRITING

or moms and dads who work at home, establishing rules and boundaries with the nanny can be tricky. Because you’re sharing a space, it’s essential that everyone knows who is boss during business hours. Here are a few guidelines that will help everyone work well together. • Have a weekly or biweekly meeting (though not in front of the kids) to discuss how things are going. • Avoid interrupting conversation between the nanny and children when they are engaged. • Don’t intervene. Even when a child is crying, throwing a tantrum, or having some sort of problem at school, let the nanny handle this as though you were working out of the house. • You and the nanny should set up a routine for mealtime, naptime, bathing, bedtime, and social activities. If you need to step out of the home office, try to do it when the kids are otherwise engaged. • The day should operate as if the parent commuted to a job outside the home. Say a quick goodbye each day and then head to the home office. Although maneuvering between work and home mindsets (when office and home are in the same place!) can be confusing, it can be done successfully and smoothly as long as you and your nanny respect each other’s workspaces. In fact, it could be the best of both worlds— the people who care most about the kids are all in one place!

(September 2019)

•

SHORT PLAYS (Winter 2019/20)

•

MENTOR PROJECT (Spring 2020)

SAY.org

CONTACT Kate@SAY.org 212.414.9696 ext. 208

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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

A dynamic Preschool Program. An exceptional Kindergarten through 8th Grade day school. Learn what makes The Cathedral School so special.

Thursday, October 17th at 9:30am Wednesday, November 6th at 6pm

RSVP Online Today Fostering the natural curiosity, intelligence and creativity of children through excellence in education. 319 East 74th Street, New York City / 212.249.2840 / www.cathedralschoolny.org / ecoster@cathedralschoolny.org

For boys and girls Nursery to Grade 8

Join our Autumn Open Houses Tuesday 8th October, 9:00am - 10:30am Thursday 24th October, 6:00pm - 7:30pm Wednesday 30th October, 9:00am - 10:30am * Please note that registration is required

For more information: 646-213-3400 7 East 96th Street, New York info@wetherbypembridge.org www.wetherby-pembridge.org BigAppleParent 13

r e d l i W d Wild an

Three trending birthday

e mold—and how to rty themes that break th

same parthrown) many of the e’ve all been to (and ting rinks, , bouncy houses, ska ties: amusement parks fty parents cra se tho then there are d An rs. ate the vie mo ative-minded few tside the box—the cre who love to plan ou om rented tarantulas Fr w. ne try something who aren’t afraid to ay parties might these innovative birthd to enchanted forests, bash. just inspire your next

Wild Animals

››

throw them

By Emma Steven

ll.” working out really we kids between 4 party works best for al im Tips: A wild an owns My Reptile s Glen Cohen, who and 10 years old, say k his pet reptiles t started when he too Guys—a business tha ht cities. Most eig now operates in d an l oo sch s’ kid to his one’s home, he simple affairs in some of these parties are enter tainer, which t the animals and the explains. It’s all abou e. Minkoff agrees: to find the right on is why it’s important it’s just a bunch g ny, enter tainin guy, fun a ve ha n’t do u yo “If

ays o! Wild animal bir thd Forget the petting zo n tha re mo re we . There are a hot commodity ms ite ed em -th gle jun 594,000 searches for to months, according on Etsy in the last six rt. pe ex nd tre n, the site’s Dayna Isom Johnso , ace tpl rke ma ent Plus, The Bash, an ev ndlers are one of its ha al im an t tha ts repor searches. top 10 most popular a mom of five in , off ink M ie Stephan for exotic animal party Irvington, threw an y an . She used a comp her 7-year-old twins t nu est Ch ts, based in called Outragehiss Pe , fox a a, tul t a taran Ridge, which brough sly mpany was ridiculou co he “T . by lla and a wa e lov “The parents were in amazing,” she says. ded up s in love with it. It en with it, everyone wa

of animals and the kids are going to zone out.” Favors: Try this Pinterest favorite: Put animal crackers in mini mason jars or clear bags and decorate them with homemade tags. Or have the kids create mini terrariums, which double as favors, says Seri Kertzner, founder of Little Miss Party, a New York events company. Another idea: stuffed animals the kids can “adopt” and take home.

Kidchella

Throwing your own festival became a popular trend after Kim Kardashian celebrated her daughter North’s first birthday party with a kids’ version of the famous music festival Coachella. (Etsy has recently seen a 33 percent increase in searches for festival-themed items, Johnson says.) Kardashian’s bash featured a Ferris wheel, food stands, tents, and a stage, but fear not! You don’t need to have her budget to throw your own Kidchella. Tips: Festivals are all about the music. There are DJs out there who specialize in kids’ parties, and will do dance games and give out prizes. If a DJ isn’t in the budget, create a great playlist. You could also hire a face painter or use a tool like Blinger to decorate hair and clothes with sparkles. When it comes to décor, hang outdoor fairy lights and make your own festival signs. Favors: Set up a craft station and make flower crowns (Little Miss Party has a great online tutorial).

Enchanted Forest

One of Pinterest’s biggest party trends of 2019 (searches jumped by 238 percent since last year, according to Johnson) is fairy forests. Think: fairy and elf costumes, toadstool seats, and lots of natural decorations like flowers, wood, grass, and moss. With all this magic, it’s a great theme to inspire little imaginations. Tips: Summer Ticas, a Manhattan mom, brought the enchanted forest inside for her daughter Andrea’s fourth birthday party. She used online tutorials from Pinterest to create trees out of twisted green and brown craft paper, and fairy lanterns using jars and glitter. She then sourced fairy garden miniatures (think mini-houses and toadstools) to decorate. For activities she set up craft stations for kids to make fairy dust necklaces and mini terrariums they could take home. Favors: Ticas made fairy tutus, wands and wings, elf hats, and capes for her daughter’s guests. The kids loved running around the enchanted forest in their fairy garb. Plus, Pinterest has some great DIY fairy houses, which could work as favors. Emma Steven is a British freelance writer living in Manhattan with her husband, two small kids, and two cats.

HELPFUL TIPS FOR PLANNING A CREATIVE BASH Decorations

Creating themed party décor looks easy enough on social media, but it can be overwhelming to do yourself. You could consult a party planner, or you could try one of these tricks: • U tilize Etsy. It’s a great place to find creative décor, favors, and invitations that look like you made them yourself. • F or DIYers, start early and stay organized with a timeline. Manhattan mom Summer Ticas, who often creates all the décor herself, says she starts planning six months out. • Plan with Pinterest. “I look at all the ideas that come out of the themes and I do spend quite a bit of time creating a board,” Ticas says. • S ource from wholesalers. In order to save money, Ticas says she sourced fairy gardens for her daughter’s enchanted forest party direct from wholesalers rather than the craft store. • C reate a balloon garland. It’s one of the most requested items but very easy to do yourself, according to Seri Kertzner, founder of Little Miss Party. “They can be enormous or much more low-key,” Kertzner says, but anything around 10 feet long (approximately 30 balloons) looks fancy and is affordable because there’s no helium. For instructions, check out Little Miss Party’s YouTube tutorial.

Entertainment

Now that you’ve decided to host your own party, figuring out the entertainment is key to happy partygoers. • M ake the theme age-appropriate. Tarantulas might be great for older kids, but choose something a little easier to handle for toddlers. • D o your research. Irvington mom Stephanie Minkoff used word of mouth recommendations and Facebook reviews to help her choose a wild animal handler for her sons’ party. “I probably contacted ten different people, and I got prices from four hundred dollars to four thousand dollars,” she says. • B ook early. “These guys get booked quickly!” Minkoff says. • C onsider low-cost options that fit with the theme. Think: a scavenger hunt, an epic game of hide and seek, or DIY party favors.

Favors

If you’ve settled on giving favors to each guest, consider these tips: • D on’t give a favor that’s just going to end up in the trash. “I will always do something that is seasonally related or something that’s going to be useful to the parent or child,” Kertzner says. For example, personalized water bottles in the summer and mittens in the winter. • B ring spares in case an extra guest turns up. “I always have extra favors on hand now,” Kertzner says. “If I end up with extras at the end of the party, I use them as gifts or return them.”

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

Talk to us about the many possibilities for celebrating your little one’s next big day.

Ballet Academy East

1651 Third Ave., Upper East Side 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, table and chair rental included.

Adult birthday parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, and Sweet 16s are available. Plan your party today at chelseapiers.com/birthday.

FunFuzion at New Roc City

29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle 914-637-7575 funfuziononline.com FunFuzion is the only place where kids of all ages can “Fuze the Fun” for their fantastic day! Celebrate in tons of ways with games, rides, mini-golf, bowling, and laser tag at the home of the world’s greatest birthday party! Our birthday party specialists are ready for your call!

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.

Breakaway Hoops

646-776-2021 x0 office hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm breakawayhoops.com info@breakawayhoops.com Breakaway Hoops is an NYC-based basketball company offering youth, ages 7-17, fundamental basketball instruction. We offer basketball themed birthday parties. Come celebrate the special day with us and we will make it memorable. Our instructors are current or former college and pro players.

Galli Theater

Mystery & Mayhem

Bricks 4 Kidz®

Hex & Company

Broadway Dance Center Children and Teens

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

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, balloon 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, daycare or school parties, block parties, any party!

BIRTHDAY PARTY PLACES 92Y

1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side 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.

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. 37 W. 65th St. 3rd floor, Upper West Side 212-582-9304 broadwaydancecenter.com Your birthday dancer and guests are sure to love a birthday party set in our beautiful, spacious studios. The 90-minute 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

West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, Chelsea 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.

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

74 Warren St., Tribeca 212-731-0668 gallitheaternyc.com galliny@gmail.com Party with the Galli Theater New York. Your child loves 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! 1462 First Ave., Upper East Side 646-833-7574 hexmarksthespot.com kids@hexnyc.com Bust out the perfect party games at Hex & Company. We host parties of all kinds both in-store and offsite. We work with you to fit any theme and build a menu and game list around it. We teach you new games and run games like Dungeons and Dragons! Pier 86, W. 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Hell’s Kitchen 646-381-5010 intrepidmuseum.org groupsales@intrepidmuseum.org Celebrate your child’s birthday with a oneof-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.

Just Kidding at Symphony Space

2537 Broadway, Upper West Side 212-864-1414 x289 symphonyspace.org 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.

The Little Gym

2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side Upper West Side, Manhattan 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 90-minute parties are supervised by our trained, professional staff from beginning to end. Gymnastics, games, obstacle courses, trampoline, sports, and music are tailored to your child’s interests.

MakerState Builder Birthdays

917-780-2345 builderbirthdays.com parties@maker-state.com Builder Birthday Parties are perfect for your budding engineer, Minecraft enthusiast, rocket scientist, robot artist, coder, circuit inventor, designer, and laser tag player!

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!

Robofun

2672 Broadway, Manhattan Valley 212-245-0444 robofun.org robofun@robofun.org Celebrate your child’s next birthday making robots, building video games, creating in Minecraft, or developing animations. Robofun birthday

parties are the perfect combination of fun and creativity! All party guests will design, build, code, or animate their own Lego robots, video games, Minecraft challenges, or stop motion animation films.

Sugar Factory

Sugar Factory - Meatpacking District 835 Washington St. Sugar Factory - The Row 700 8th Ave. Sugar Factory - Upper West Side 1991 Broadway 212-414-8700 sugarfactory.com sfny@sugarfactory.com Party where the stars play! Here at Sugar Factory, we offer prefixed and customizable party packages for any celebration and budget! From private large-scale events to private dinners for two, a Sugar Factory celebration is one you will never forget!

Hone your creative problem-solving skills with board games!

Tiger Strong NYC

hexmarksthespot.com 1462 First Avenue 646-833-7574 kids@hexnyc.com

500 E. 77th St., Upper East Side 917-453-6503 tigerstrongnyc.com bill@tigerstrongnyc.com Tiger Strong Parties gives your child a unique birthday party experience they will remember forever. We offer a wide variety of options to fit every budget. The kids will have a great time, get lots of exercise, and leave feeling like black belts.

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

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.

Saturday Workshops

Group and Private Classes Inquire about

iardino dei a bini Italian irotondo

LOOKING FOR

GREAT DEALS?

Saving money on a New York City family day is easy! Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more. Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

iallo e

osso Italian

irotondo lu e iola u

ini Ca

or s o s ri ate tutorin

Adult Classes

and

1556 Third Avenue @87th Street Suite 603 New York, NY Info@collinaitaliana.com

212.427.7770 BigAppleParent 17

Back-to-School Resources AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

and Clubhouse are offered Monday through Thursday, 2:30–6 pm. Pick-up is offered from many Upper West Side schools.

Collina Italiana

The Knowledge Project

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT/LANGUAGE

1556 Third Ave. (at 87th Street), Suite 603, Upper East Side 212-427-7770 collinaitaliana.com info@collinaitaliana.com Set on the Upper East Side, our Italian classes allow children to benefit from a comprehensive approach to learning in an age-appropriate, inviting atmosphere. Children gather to share learned words and expressions through playful, skill-building activities such as games, songs, dances, and stories. For all the bellissimi details visit collinaitaliana.com!

NYU, 100 Washington Square East, Greenwich Village 212-346-9933 theknowledgeproject.org mhunnewell@theknowledgeproject.org Middle and high school students join us to connect, craft, and create. Master the word. Weekend writing classes offered, led by experts. Fiction, non-fiction, and cool writing, two-hour classes, are held on Saturdays, for a cost of $50-$60. Write Smart, 60-minute workshops are offered on Sundays for $25.

Congregation Or Zarua

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

127 E. 82nd St., Upper East Side 212-452-2310 x15, Sigal Hirsch orzarua.org shirsch@orzarua.org At Or Zarua’s Hebrew School, on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, children connect with Jewish heritage, gaining knowledge and skills through Hebrew language, text study, ritual, and prayer. Students of all ages learn and laugh with friends and teachers as they build a Jewish community of their own.

Gooroo

646-791-3081 gooroo.com support@gooroo.com Gooroo offers in-person tutoring in your neighborhood! Our tutoring membership matches students to tutors based on their unique learning needs. Members have access to experts in more than 300 subjects. Gooroo provides continuous feedback, progress reports, and a designated Personal Learning Consultant to guide students through their learning journey.

Hex & Company

1462 First Ave., Upper East Side 646-833-7574 hexmarksthespot.com kids@hexnyc.com When kids play board games together, they develop critical thinking, interpersonal, and strategy skills. That is the goal of our playbased curriculum, built upon neurodevelopmental theory. We create a learning environment that teaches problem-solving skills and encourages social engagement. Kids have a blast while learning important skills!

JCC Manhattan

334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side 646-505-4444 jccmanhattan.org The JCC’s Clubhouse offers after-school pickup, quality care, snacks, games, and homework help. Counselors accompany children to and from their JCC after-school classes, including swim, STEAM, hip-hop, and sports. Pick-up

Successful Students NYC

DANCE 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 The Little Gym is an exercise and motor development center for children, offering gymnastic classes, sports skills development, dance, cheerleading, and karate classes for children ages 4 months to 12 years, in a loving, non-competitive environment. Qualified instructors implement programs designed to build self-esteem and confidence.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE China Institute

40 Rector St., 2nd floor, Financial District 212-744-8181 x110 chinainstitute.org; emarks@chinainstitute.org With two convenient Manhattan locations-Upper East Side and the Financial District, China Institute’s classes allow children to learn Chinese using an integrated, comprehensive approach. Classes are level and age-appropriate. Expert, native speaking teachers lead classes for kids 18 months to 17 years.

Collina Italiana

1556 Third Ave. (at 87th Street), Suite 603, Upper East Side 212-427-7770 collinaitaliana.com; info@collinaitaliana.com

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Set on the Upper East Side, our Italian classes allow children to benefit from a comprehensive approach to learning in an age-appropriate, inviting atmosphere. Children gather to share learned words and expressions through playful, skill-building activities such as games, songs, dances, and stories. For all the bellissimi details visit collinaitaliana.com!

MOMMY & ME Parent and Child NYC

646-796-8232 parentandchildnyc.org parentandchildnyc@gmail.com Nurturing program with emphasis on self-initiated play, essential for healthy development. A calm haven to learn about child development and parenting skills. Carefully selected toys and activities that encourage creativity and contribute to the development of fine and gross motor skills, language, and social skills. Kids bake bread daily.

MUSIC Harlem School of the Arts

645 Saint Nicholas Ave., Harlem 212-926-4100 hsanyc.org/register Harlem School of the Arts offers worldclass training and exposure to the arts across multiple disciplines. Secure your spot in new music, dance, theatre, and art and design classes for ages 18 months to 18 years. Children will stimulate creativity, build self-confidence, and add a dimension of beauty to their lives.

THEATER Harlem School of the Arts

SAY, Confident Voices

212-414-9696 x208, Kate Detrick say.org/programs/confidentvoices kate@say.org SAYs award-winning Confident Voices after-school and weekend creative arts program for kids who stutter, ages 8-18, has three sessions during the 2019-2020 season. The Songwriting Project begins Sept. 27, followed by the Short Play Project on Dec. 13 and the Mentor Project on April 17. For more information or to register visit say.org/programs/ confidentvoices.

FITNESS Tiger Strong NYC

500 E. 77th St., Upper East Side 917-453-6503 tigerstrongnyc.com; bill@tigerstrongnyc.com The Tiger Strong Program focuses on helping kids develop skills they can use in every part of their daily life. We challenge them to be the best they can be and help them learn how to learn by increasing focus and being confident about themselves while having fun and making new friends.

GYMNASTICS & CHEERLEADING 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 The Little Gym is an exercise and motor development center for children, offering gymnastic classes, sports skills development, dance, cheerleading, and karate classes for children ages 4 months to 12 years, in a loving, non-competitive environment. Qualified instructors implement programs designed to build self-esteem and confidence.

MARTIAL ARTS Tiger Strong NYC

SWIMMING & WATER SPORTS British Swim School Manhattan

Offering classes in Midtown West, Herald Square, or at-home lessons in your building’s pool 917-727-9942 britishswimschool.com/manhattan goswimmanhattan@britishswimschool.com British Swim School offers a premier water survival, learn-to-swim, and stroke development program. We provide lessons to children as young as 3 months and invite families to experience the BSS difference. Mommy-, Daddy-, and Caregiver-and-me classes for kids younger than 3 years. Great after-school activity. Small class sizes.

JCC Manhattan

swim, STEAM, hip-hop, and sports. Pick-up and Clubhouse are offered Monday through Thursday, 2:30–6 pm. Pick-up is offered from many Upper West Side schools.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL SERVICES DOCTORS

Judy Goldstein M.D.

635 Madison Ave. 12th floor, Upper East Side 646-727-7373 drjudygoldstein.com judy@drjudygoldstein.com Dr. Judy Goldstein is a 68-time award-winning, board-certified pediatrician whose focus is “Pediatrics Made Personal.” Providing care not only medically but also offering parental guidance in nutrition, behavioral and emotional coaching. Following the principles of the American Academy of Pediatrics, she performs mandatory vaccinations, regular checkups (school/camp), and sick visits.

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES creADDive Solutions Andrea Elrom, Certified ADHD & Executive Function Coach

201-240-0921 creaddivesolutions.com elrom.andrea@gmail.com Adhd/Executive Function Coach, offering extensive knowledge on parenting challenging behaviors through workshops, individual and group sessions. Through her Calm and Connected@ workshop series (fall session begins Oct. 16), learn to improve the overall dynamics of family life. Andrea works closely with independent schools to support teachers in understanding executive function in the classroom.

STORES & RESOURCES SAY, Confident Voices

TUTORS & TEST PREP China Institute

40 Rector St., 2nd floor, Lower East Side 212-744-8181 x110 chinainstitute.org; emarks@chinainstitute.org With two convenient Manhattan locations-Upper East Side and the Financial District, China Institute’s classes allow children to learn Chinese using an integrated, comprehensive approach. Classes are level and age-appropriate. We also offer private tutoring in the comfort of your home or any location.

Gooroo

646-791-3081 gooroo.com; support@gooroo.com

Gooroo offers in-person tutoring in your neighborhood! Our tutoring membership matches students to tutors based on their unique learning needs. Members have access to experts in more than 300 subjects. Gooroo provides continuous feedback, progress reports, and a designated Personal Learning Consultant to guide students through their learning journey.

Successful Students NYC

EDUCATION

CHARTER SCHOOLS Manhattan Charter School

100 Attorney St., Lower East Side 212-533-2743 Manhattan Charter School II 220 Henry St., Lower East Side 212-964-3792 manhattancharterschool.org info@manhattancharterschool.org Two small public elementary schools educating children kindergarten-fifth grades. Committed to offering a well-rounded education designed to help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Never more than 25 students in a class. All students receive weekly French, art, physical education, and technology instruction, in addition to daily music instruction.

New York French American Charter School

311 W 120th St., Harlem 212-666-4134 x2 nyfacs.net mba@nyfacs.net New York French American Charter School provides a free French immersion education to elementary and middle school students. Our commitment to French immersion, diversity, cultural enrichment, and high academic standards is unparalleled in our district. Our school community succeeds in growing the next generation of bilingual, global citizens.

Zeta Charter Schools

Zeta Bronx 1 Elementary 222 Alexander Ave., Bronx 929-458-3000 Zeta Inwood 1 Elementary Inwood/Washington Heights 652 W.187th St. 929-447-5282 zetaschools.org With a focus on rigorous, hands-on academics, wellness, innovation, and family service, Zeta Schools prepare students to be leaders and problem-solvers in a modern world. Zeta offers children in pre-K through third grade a high-quality, free elementary education in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx. Apply now for the 2020-21 school year. continued on next page ››

BigAppleParent 19

‹‹ continued from previous page

PAROCHIAL & RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

logical innovations in learning and committed educators create a safe and inspiring environment in which to grow.

The Cathedral School

319 E. 74th St., Upper East Side 212-249-2840 cathedralschoolny.org info@cathedralschoolny.org At The Cathedral School our nursery through eighth grade program encourages children to become bold and compassionate thinkers. We offer a challenging curriculum that engages students in becoming independent and joyful learners. Our small class size allows for individual attention where every child’s voice is heard.

PRESCHOOLS The Epiphany School

Gramercy, Murray Hill Early Childhood Center: 152 E. 29th St. 212-725-7220 Lower School: 234 E. 22nd St. 212-473-4128 Upper School: 141 E. 28th St. 212-725-7220 theepiphanyschool.org admissions@theepiphanyschool.org Early Childhood classes at The Epiphany School utilize art, music, movement, learning centers, and socialization activities to support the growth of each child’s cognitive, linguistic, physical, and social emotional skills. Low teacher-student ratios, bright, colorful classrooms, and outdoor play space provide students an inviting, comfortable environment to begin their educational journey.

The Epiphany School

First Presbyterian Church Nursery School

Congregation Or Zarua

Gramercy, Murray Hill Early Childhood Center: 152 E. 29th St. 212-725-7220 Lower School: 234 E. 22nd St. 212-473-4128 Upper School: 141 E. 28th St. 212-725-7220 theepiphanyschool.org admissions@theepiphanyschool.org Serving approximately 500 students of all faiths, age 2 through eighth grade, The Epiphany School provides a value-centered education that educates the whole child and inspires academic success. Low teacher-student ratios, bright, colorful classrooms, and outdoor play space provide students an inviting and comfortable environment to begin their educational journey.

First Presbyterian Church Nursery School

12 W. 12th St., Greenwich Village 212-691-3432 fpcns.org First Presbyterian Church Nursery School was founded in 1952 in Greenwich Village. Our school offers a non-sectarian program, welcoming children and families of all configurations, religions, races, cultures, and economic backgrounds. FPCNS is dedicated to the development of the whole child in a warm and nurturing environment.

Immaculate Conception School

419 E. 13th St., East Village 212-475-2590 immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org info@immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org Immaculate Conception School is dedicated to achieving excellence in learning. From pre-K3 and UPK, through eighth grade, we provide a caring, well-run, high-performance foundation for children of all faiths and cultures. Well-equipped classrooms offer techno-

International Academy of New York

Shelley Borror Jackson, head of school 4 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-641-0260 ianyc.org; info@ianyc.org The International Academy of New York is multi-cultural and diverse, developing culturally astute, confident, and empathetic students with fluency in Mandarin or Spanish, while excelling in literacy, math, and the arts. Pre-nursery (2s)-eighth grade but accepting applications through fourth grade for 2019-20.

The Montessori School of New York International

347 E. 55th St., Sutton Place 212-223-4630 montessorischoolny.com Children explore academic dimensions at their own pace and interest level. Classes are equipped with didactic Montessori materials that encourage absorption of concepts through play, leading children to become well-rounded and confident. Program includes science, music, foreign language, musical theatre, swimming, dance, yoga, chess, cultural events, and robotics.

Pusteblume International Preschool and Afterschool Programs 244 W. 14th St., Greenwich Village 212-206-1137 pusteblumenyc.org info@pusteblumenyc.org Pusteblume International Preschool provides

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

children with a fun and community-oriented multicultural environment. Our preschool program welcomes families with children from ages 2-5 of all international backgrounds who are interested in having their child learn German, Spanish, or both, in a language immersion classroom.

Wetherby–Pembridge School

7 E. 96th St., Upper East Side 646-213-3400 wetherby-pembridge.org info@wetherbypembridge.org A British independent school for ages 3-14, our school vision is to awaken curiosity, cultivate high standards, and celebrate successes. Our curriculum is based on the rigorous English National Curriculum and combines the merits of single-sex and coeducation, infused with our three school values of respect, responsibility, and resilience.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Academy of Thought and Industry

917-338-2820 thoughtandindustry.com/manhattan manhattan@thoughtandindustry.com The Academy of Thought and Industry (ATI) in Manhattan joins a network of middle and high schools with campuses in Austin, San Francisco, and St. Louis. ATI is an autonomous learning community that offers handson work, self-directed projects, and entrepreneurial endeavors among expert mentors and ambitious peers.

Blue School

Pre-primary and Primary School, 241 Water St. 212-228-6341 Upper-primary and Middle School 156 William St. blueschool.org Blue School is an independent school for ages 2 through eighth grade where the dynamic balance of academic mastery, creative thinking, self and social intelligence instills a lifelong passion for learning. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry, observation, and reflection, encouraging children to become bold, creative, and compassionate innovators.

The British International School of New York

20 Waterside Plaza 212-481-2700 x204 bis-ny.org; info@bis-ny.org With a stunning campus full of light, and a proven, portable curriculum which both stretches and supports every student across a breadth of subject areas, BIS-NY offers a supportive and truly balanced approach to education. For children 3 years and older.

The Cathedral School

Dwight School

291 Central Park West, Upper West Side 212-724-6360 dwight.edu admissions@dwight.edu Founded in 1872, Dwight is a leading nursery-12th grade private school dedicated to igniting the spark of genius in every child. Dwight has one of the lowest student-teacher ratios among NYC independent schools and was the first in the Americas to offer the comprehensive International Baccalaureate curriculum for ages 3-18.

The École

111 E. 22nd St., Gramercy Park 646-410-2238 theecole.org; bonjour@theecole.org The École, formerly École Internationale de New York, is an intimate and independent French-American school that cultivates an internationally-minded community of students. From Maternelle to middle school, we blend the best of the French and American educational systems, gifting our students with deep academic bi-literacy and an optimistic, multi-cultural perspective.

International Academy of New York

Shelley Borror Jackson, head of school 4 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-641-0260 ianyc.org; info@ianyc.org The International Academy of New York is multi-cultural and diverse, developing culturally astute, confident, and empathetic students with fluency in Mandarin or Spanish, while excelling in literacy, math, and the arts. Pre-nursery (2s)-eighth grade, but accepting applications through fourth grade for 2019-20.

The Montessori School of New York International

347 E. 55th St., Sutton Place 212-223-4630 montessorischoolny.com In a lovingly, thoughtfully prepared environment, children explore academic dimensions at their own pace and interest level. Classes are equipped with didactic Montessori materials that encourage absorption of concepts through play, leading children to become well-rounded and confident. Program includes science, music, foreign language, musical theatre, swimming, dance, yoga, and chess.

The Portfolio School

27 North Moore St., Tribeca 212-226-8252 portfolio-school.com

admissions@portfolio-school.com Portfolio School is an independent school in Tribeca for grades kindergarten through sixth. Grounded in research, our integrated STEAM approach combines personalized learning and immersive projects. We provide an innovative education that celebrates your child’s curiosity, creativity, and love of learning. Applications for fall 2019 are open.

Planning an Activity or Event for Children or Families?

Wetherby–Pembridge School

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Get FREE Exposure on

NYMetroParents 019

ies 2 t i v i t c A mily

d Wednes

y Thurssda

Frida

Manhattan Charter School

100 Attorney St., Lower East Side 212-533-2743 Manhattan Charter School II 220 Henry St. 212-964-3792 manhattancharterschool.org info@manhattancharterschool.org Two small public elementary schools educating children kindergarten-fifth grades. Committed to offering a well-rounded education designed to help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Never more than 25 students in a class. All students receive weekly French, art, physical education, and technology instruction, in addition to daily music instruction.

se u o H Open JCC at

18 27 26 25

Zeta Charter Schools

Submit your entries online to

NYMetroParents.com/submitevent All entries subject to editor’s review and acceptance.

Announce it to more than 100,000 parents who are visiting NYMetroParents.com every month. Be featured on the largest family activities Calendar in the metropolitan New York area. BigAppleParent 21

citybound bound things to to do do city things

Halloween Fun a Ride Away By Melissa Wickes

Wh ere to.. .

W Margaret Fox

hen we it comes to October, all we can think about is Halloween. What better way to enjoy the crisp fall air, the changing colors of the leaves, and decorating for the ghoulish season than getting outside with the family and picking the perfect pumpkin to take home and carve. And if carving pumpkins isn’t your thing, but you want to see epic jack-o’lanterns, why not meander through a display of 5,000 of them in Westchester?

After the Haunted Hayride, there is a free block party on Beekman Avenue with live music, vendors, a photobooth, and more.

Hold onto Your Head!

Sleepy Hollow’s annual Haunted Hayride invites you on a journey through the dark woods of the town. You’ll hear shrieks and sounds of hoof beats amongst a spooky setting. The ride is recommended for children ages 8 and older who don’t mind a little scare. But if anyone is too spooked for the ride, there’s a free block party on Beekman Avenue with bounce castles, a photobooth, and live music to lift your ‘spirits.’ Oct. 25-26; see website for schedule. 28 Beekman Ave., Sleepy Hollow; 914-366-5100; sleepyhollowny.ticketleap.com

PICK PUMPKINS

Stuart’s Fruit Farm 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs 914-245-2784 stuartsfarm.com Hours: Through November: daily, 10am-5pm Admission: Free School tours available weekdays in October. Group tours available through the barn, cider mill, and cold storage, ending with a chance to pick apples or pumpkins. Cash and check only. Bakery open daily with pies, apple cider, apple cider doughnuts, muffins, scones, and other treats for sale. Corn maze open daily, 10am-5pm.

Courtesy Boo at the Zoo

GET IN THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

The Halloween-themed weekends at Boo at the Zoo incorporate wildlife while highlighting the best parts of the season.

Lions and Goblins and Ghouls, Oh My!

The Bronx Zoo’s annual Halloween favorite Boo at the Zoo is back with spooky fun for the whole family. Favorites include magic shows, the extinct animal graveyard, a corn maze, a costume parade, pumpkin carving demos, mind reading, and (who could forget) a candy trail! Special events, including the Dinosaur Safari and Spooktacular Night Walks, are available with the purchase of an extra ticket on the website. Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 28-Nov. 3, including Monday, Oct. 14., 10am-5:30pm; Ages: All. $39.95; $34.95 ages 65 and older; $29.95 ages 3-12; free for children 2 and younger. 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx; 718-220-5100; bronxzoo.com/boo-at-the-zoo 22

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze

>> For more places to pick pumpkins in your area, visit nymetroparents.com/pumpkins.

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze 525 S. Riverside Ave., Croton-onHudson 914-366-6900 hudsonvalley.org Hours: See website for schedule Admission: $23; $17 for children 3-17; free for members and children 2 and younger Thousands travel to Van Cortlandt Manor each year for this massively popular event, which features more than 7,000 illuminated jacko’-lanterns, plus theme areas like Jurassic Park and the Undersea Aquarium. Sound effects and synchronized lighting make it even more impressive; parents who are Howard Stern fans will love that the original soundtrack is provided by the show’s own Richard Christy, a self-described Halloween fanatic. >> For more fun Halloween events like this, visit nymetroparents.com/halloween-fun.

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Boo at the Zoo (No. 9 on our list).

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

nyme

com/c

ents. ropar

OCTOBER CALENDAR

24 Editor’s Hot Tickets

30 Fun Fairs & Festivals,

25 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE! 26 Smarty Pants

32 Halloween

27 The Great Outdoors

34 Mini Musicians, Holiday Fun

28 Show Time! WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar nyccalendar@davlermedia.com

Crafty Kids

29 Movers & Shakers, Special Needs

35 Animal Lovers

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS 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!

Comic Con

WHEN: Oct. 3-6, see website for schedule WHERE: Jacob Javits Center, 655 W. 34th St., Chelsea AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Experience the best in pop culture with award-winning comic artists and anime creators, TV and film idols, fandom gear, and artwork. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s your chance to geek out as a family! WANT TO GO? $55 and up. 212-216-2000. newyorkcomiccon.com.

Harvest Festival FREE

The Laurie Berkner Band’s Monster Boogie Halloween

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 11am-1pm WHERE: Carl Schurz Park, East 87th Street and East End Avenue, Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Pick your own pumpkin and decorate it, take festive fall photos, enjoy a family concert, and more. WHY WE LOVE IT: The fun includes temporary tattoos, Halloween slime, and strolls through the Spooky Trail...if you dare! WANT TO GO? 212-459-4455. carlschurzparknyc.org.

Joanie Leeds & the Nightlights

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Joanie’s tuneful melodies and rich, funny lyrics give irresistible zip to songs about sunglasses at the beach, goodnight hugs, and popcorn. WHY WE LOVE IT: The Brooklyn artist will debut songs from her upcoming folksy female empowerment album! WANT TO GO? $14-$17. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org. WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 20, 11am WHERE: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the joyous festival of Sukkot, as you help to bring the 92nd Street Y’s rooftop sukkah to life! Create unique craft projects, sing, and celebrate with family and friends. WHY WE LOVE IT: Pizza lunch included for all! WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 4:45-6pm WHERE: Washington Market Park, Greenwich and Chambers streets, Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: Prizes will be awarded in several categories, including scariest, funniest, and most creative. Bring your already carved jack-o’lantern to enter, or just stop by with your family to enjoy the display! WHY WE LOVE IT: This event is short and sweet—perfect before dinner! WANT TO GO? washingtonmarketpark.org. 24

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 3-5pm WHERE: New York Society for Ethical Culture, 2 W. 64th St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Families can enjoy a live Halloween performance by The Laurie Berkner Band. WHY WE LOVE IT: Wear your costume and boogie to your favorite songs! WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 212-874-5210. nysec.org.

Halloween Parade and Party FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 1-3pm WHERE: Washington Market Park, Greenwich and Chambers streets, Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: This long-standing Tribeca tradition brings the entire neighborhood together for a parade down Greenwich Street, culminating at a huge park party with games and music. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will enjoy crafts, games, and spying so many cool costumes! WANT TO GO? washingtonmarketpark.org.

Halloween Boo Bash FREE

Sukkah Decorating Party

5th Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 31, 3:30-5:30pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Join for crafts, games, treats, and spooky fun. WHY WE LOVE IT: The event is fairly low-key and great for little ones! WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Boo at the Zoo

WHEN: Sept. 28-Nov. 3, Saturday-Sunday and holidays, 10am-5:30pm; Monday-Friday 10am-5pm WHERE: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: This year’s Boo at the Zoo has family favorites like magic shows, costume parades, pumpkin carvings, a candy trail, animal treats, crafts, and mentalism shows, plus the Dinosaur Safari exhibit. WHY WE LOVE IT: Animal aficionados will appreciate meet and greets with vultures, owls, ravens, and more! WANT TO GO? $35.95; $31.45 seniors; $26.95 children 3-12; free for children younger than 2. 718-220-5100. bronxzoo.com.

Big Apple Circus

WHEN: Oct. 12-Feb. 2, 2020, see website for show times WHERE: Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: World renowned for its intimate one-ring and artistic style, Big Apple Circus is passionate about revitalizing the circus with unique and astounding human feats, innovative design, and technology. WHY WE LOVE IT: All your classic circus delights in a climatecontrolled Big Top tent with tiered seating, perfect for families with young children. WANT TO GO? $45 and up; free for children younger than 3 (on lap). 212-721-6500. bigapplecircus.com.

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. CityParks PuppetMobile: Bessie’s Big Shot FREE

WHEN: Oct. 1, see website for showtimes WHERE: Various locations AGES: All WHAT: Come root for Bessie the Cow in this variety show as she attempts the impossible and searches for her special talents. WANT TO GO? cityparksfoundation.org/puppetmobile.

We offer appointments for School Physicals and Well Checkups. Accepting Newborn - 21 Years of Age. Focusing on Developmental and Parental Education. 635 Madison Ave., 12th Floor judy@drjudygoldstein.com | (646) 727-7373 DISCOVER THE NATION’S PREMIER WATER SURVIVAL AND SWIM INSTRUCTION PROGRAM

Teresa Fellion Dance Presents Inwood Erases Hate with Love FREE WHEN: Friday, Oct. 4, 5-7pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park, Linden Terrace, Fort George AGES: All WHAT: An arts-based, outdoor celebration centering around social justice for immigrant communities. The event will include music, dance performances, audience participation, and the creation and unveiling of the community-created banner. WANT TO GO? 646-662-5128. bodystoriesfellion.org.

Hester Street Fair FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 26: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Hester Street, Hester and Essex streets, Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: Peruse handmade goods, creative products, and artisanal food. WANT TO GO? hesterstreetfair.com.

Family Build and Wear Workshop FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Create your own architecture-inspired Halloween costume! WANT TO GO? 212-683-0023. cfafoundation.org.

Halloween Craft: Secret Message Cups FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 31, 4pm WHERE: New York Public Library, Countee Cullen branch, 104 W. 136th St., Harlem AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This craft is perfect for sharing secrets on Halloween. WANT TO GO? 212-491-2070. nypl.org.

• Proven, rigorous curriculum • Fun, gentle methods • Highly trained instructors • 35+ years of experience • Small class sizes • Great after-school activity • Mommy-, Daddy-, and Caregiver -&-me classes

Serving your community in Manhattan

917-727-9942

BritishSwimSchool.com/Manhattan 15,000 lessons delivered across the US each week. Join us!

BigAppleParent 25

WHAT: Join mathematician Paul Zeitz in this occasional series as he describes the surprising (and mathematical!) fun you can have with items as simple as strips of paper, business cards, and even toothpicks. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Unlimited

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 6:30-8pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 12-17 WHAT: If you’re excited by the idea of a math-filled, parent-free night where you can hang out with old and new friends, enjoy some snacks, and move to the tunes of today’s popular music, then don’t miss this exciting program. WANT TO GO? $23. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

SMARTY PANTS Math Encounters: Paradoxes in Probability: Surprising Results and Why They Matter with Alon Amit FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 2, 4-5:30pm; 7-8:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Test your intuition on a variety of simple problems and explore how such paradoxes have crept into scientific research, policy making, and even executive boardrooms. WANT TO GO? 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Bookclub: ‘The Red Blazer Girls: The Vanishing Violin’ by Michael D. Beil

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 5:30-6:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 9-12 WHAT: When there are mysteries to be solved, the Red Blazer Girls are on the case! The discovery of the Ring of Rocamadour has secured the girls’ reputation as Upper East Side super sleuths, bringing many job offers and some unwanted attention from crooks. WANT TO GO? $16. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Sundays: Dig-Drop In

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 3-4:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: All WHAT: If you like Sudoku, you’ll love Shikaku! WANT TO GO? $15. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 12-3pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., New York AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Discover a passion for ancient artifacts in the Museum’s simulated archaeological dig. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $18 adults; free for children and teens. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

Art Trek

Indigenous Cultures of NYC

Japanese Puzzle Party

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 11am-12pm and 2-3pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 7-11 WHAT: Discover favorite works of art as you look and learn together. This month’s theme is Hispanic Heritage. WANT TO GO? $25; free for children younger than 13. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

Stroller Tour of ‘Burke Prize 2019’

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 7, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Museum of Arts and Design, 2 Columbus Circle, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: An insightful tour and stimulating discussion of Burke Prize 2019, especially designed for parents and caregivers to enjoy while caring for little ones. WANT TO GO? $16. 212-299-7777. madmuseum.org.

Start with Art at The Met

WHEN: Oct. 3-10, see website for schedule WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-6 WHAT: Share ideas and enjoy stories, sketching, and other gallery activities that bring works of art to life. This month’s theme is Hispanic Heritage. WANT TO GO? $25 adults; free for children younger than 13. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

The Mathematics of Simple Things

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 11, 6:30-8pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: All 26

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Oct. 12-14, Saturday-Monday, 1-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the cultures that originated in New York City in the Art, Artist & You exhibit and pay respect to these native people and populations. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Family Day: Build a LEGO City FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 19, 11am-3pm WHERE: The Center for Architecture, 536 La Guardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Families will explore architecture, design, and construction with everyone’s favorite building material—LEGO bricks! Create a LEGO masterpiece as you work together to create buildings to add to a model city inspired by New York City. WANT TO GO? 212-358-6133. cfafoundation.org.

Family Program at the Museum at Eldridge Street

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 3-4:30pm WHERE: Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge St., Lower East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Guided by a Center for Architecture Design Educator, families will learn about the eclectic 19th-century synagogue in which the museum makes its home. WANT TO GO? $10. 212-219-0302. eldridgestreet.org.

Archaeology Mondays

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 28, 3-5pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Unique in New York City, this archaeological dig highlights replicas from ancient to modern times in a hands-on experience. Collect stamps in a special passport each visit and receive a gift after your third dig adventure! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $18; free for children younger than 19. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

GirlStories

WHEN: Oct. 18-Nov. 1, Fridays, 4-6:30pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Hudson Square AGES: 12-15 WHAT: GirlStories is a free after-school program for girls and non-binary artists ages 12-15. The program will include visits from guest artists and hands-on experience with techniques, processes, equipment, and technologies used in making art. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Freewith museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Intrepid Adventures

WHEN: Through Dec. 29: Saturday-Sunday, 12pm WHERE: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86, West 46th Street at Twelfth Avenue, Hell’s Kitchen AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Each adventure is inspired by a museum exhibition. Register in advance. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $33; $24 children ages 5-12; free for children younger than 5. 212-245-0072. intrepidmuseum.org.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Meadow Walk: Sensational Seeds FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Tour the Hell Gate Wildflower Meadow and learn about the beautiful native fall blooms and their diverse seeds and seed pods, from milkweed to coneflower. WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

nymetroparents.com/register ››

Fall Walks FREE

WHEN: Oct. 12-19, Saturdays, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: The beautiful waterfront pathways of Randall’s Island Park provide a lovely setting for taking in the sights, smells, and feelings of fall. Walk through the gardens, woodland trail, and wetlands to see the colorful changes happening on the Island. WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Discovery Walks for Families: Turtle Pond FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 26: see website for schedule WHERE: Belvedere Castle, mid-Central Park at 79th Street, Central Park AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Discover the home to five species of turtles who live here yearround. Learn why they love basking in the sun on flat logs or rocks, which makes the base of Vista Rock the perfect spot for their sunbathing activities. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Space is limited, registration required. 212-772-0288. centralparknyc.org.

New York Virtual Volcano Observatory FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 27: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Join volcanologists from CUNY and other NYC institutions to discover the complex life of magmas and volcanos—and the rich volcanic history of the New York region—through virtual reality experiences, a volcano sound gallery, guest speakers, and kid-friendly activities. WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Stargazing FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 29: Tuesdays, dusk WHERE: The High Line, West 14th Street and Tenth Avenue, Meatpacking District AGES: All WHAT: Peer through high-powered telescopes to see rare celestial sights. WANT TO GO? 212-500-6035. thehighline.org. ››

Discovery Walks for Families: Shakespeare Garden FREE

WHEN: Oct. 12, 11am WHERE: Belvedere Castle, mid-Central Park at 79th Street, Central Park AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: This garden features flowers and plants mentioned in Shakespeare’s poems and plays and is designed to resemble the Bard’s native English countryside. Registration required. WANT TO GO?Space is limited, registration required. 212-772-0288. centralparknyc.org.

Discovery Walks for Families: The Ramble FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 19: see website for schedule WHERE: Belvedere Castle, mid-Central Park at 79th Street, Central Park AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Explore how this carefully planned woodland provides habitat for a variety of wildlife. Join for hands-on exploration using Discovery Kits, backpacks filled with kid-friendly binoculars, field guides, hand lenses, and a complementary Discovery Journal. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Space is limited, registration required. 212-772-0288. centralparknyc.org. BigAppleParent 27

‘The Pout-Pout Fish’

WHEN: Oct. 12-20, see website for days and times WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Put your fins together for this musical based on the children’s book. WANT TO GO? $25. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

National Dance Institute: The Celebration Team

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 2pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 9-15 WHAT: Kids will be dancing for kids in Just Kidding’s annual high-energy show, featuring original choreography and live music. WANT TO GO? $14-17. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.

Kids ‘N Comedy

SHOW TIME!

Fine Art Superheroes with Basil El Halwagy

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 12:30pm WHERE: Gotham Comedy Club, 208 W. 28th St., Chelsea AGES: 9 and older WHAT: See the funniest young comedians in New York. WANT TO GO? $15, plus one purchase of food or drink per person. 212-367-9000. gothamcomedyclub.com.

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 2-4pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Cos-play meets contemporary art with pop-up performances by Fine Art Superheroes. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

‘Puss in Boots’

The Story Pirates Family Flagship Show

WHEN: Through Oct. 27: Sundays, 11am-12pm WHERE: Actors Temple Theatre, 339 W. 47th St., Times Square AGES: All WHAT: When the U.N. asks Captain Jam to create a kids’ TV show to promote global community, he invites the coolest, hippest, grooviest Agents of Jam from around the world to join him at the World Music Fair. WANT TO GO? $37.50 and up. actorstempletheatre.com.

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 12pm WHERE: The Flea Theater, 20 Thomas St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Stories by children will be brought to life and staged by the Story Pirates, professional improvisational and comedic actors, replete with music, costumes, and sets. WANT TO GO? $37. 212-226-0051. storypirates.com.

‘Little Red Riding Hood’

WHEN: Oct. 5-13, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: Can a little girl in a red cape outfox a big bad wolf? WANT TO GO? $15-20. 212-731-0668. gallitheaterny.com.

The Remarkable Renaldo

WHEN: Oct. 19-27, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: The Puss in Boots has a plan to turn an ordinary miller’s son into an extraordinary prince! WANT TO GO? $15-20. 212-731-0668. gallitheaterny.com.

FunikiJam’s Baby Likes To Rock! Family Musical

‘Alice in Wonderland the Musical’

WHEN: Through Nov. 17: Saturdays, 3pm and 7pm; Sundays, 11am WHERE: The Players Theatre, 115 MacDougal St., Greenwich Village AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Tumble down the rabbit hole with the wonderfully, wild, wacky, and whimsical cast of characters in the new musical and world premiere of Alice in Wonderland by Michael Sgouros and Brenda Bell. WANT TO GO? $32-$52. 212-475-1237. literallyalive.com.

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 19, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, at 95th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5-8 WHAT: This world-class clown and one-man circus astonishes audiences around the world with juggling, pranks, magic, and lots of humor. Special guest “Little Lou” will be joining Renaldo for this performance. WANT TO GO? $14-$17. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.

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

Dan Zanes & Claudia Eliaza

Tales from the Shed

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 20, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Newlyweds Grammy Award-winner Dan Zanes and Haitian-American jazz vocalist Claudia Eliaza will perform Zanes’ greatest hits along with folk and blues classics. WANT TO GO? $14-$18. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Through Jan. 11, 2020: see website for schedule WHERE: Harlem Rep/Tato Laviera Theatre, 240 E. 123rd St., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: With its timeless score, this show is a magical experience. WANT TO GO? $10 general admission; $20 premium seating. 212-868-4444. wizardofozjazzmusical.com. WHEN: Through May 9, 2020: see website for schedule WHERE: Founders’ Hall, The Wetherby-Pembridge School, 7 E. 96th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Vibrant, interactive theatre shows in which the children take the lead. They are informal, lively, and engaging as the performers and audience share the same space. WANT TO GO? $15 per person. 646-569-5742. chickenshed.org.uk/nyc.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Skate Night on the Upper East Side FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, family session: 4-5pm; adult session: 5:30-7pm WHERE: Stanley Isaacs Playground, First Avenue, between 95th and 96th streets, Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT:Enjoy outdoor roller skating with a live DJ and jumbo games! WANT TO GO? eventbrite.com/e/skate-night-on-the-upper-east-side-tickets-65700601267.

Watson Adventures: Wizard School Scavenger Hunt 2: The Museum of Magical History

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 10:30am-12:30 pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Search for exhibits that echo characters, places and enchanted objects in the Harry Potter universe. Advance purchase required. WANT TO GO? $29.50-$45 (includes museum admission). 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.

Fort Tryon Kids: Pop-Up Playtime!

WHEN: Through Oct. 10: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2-4pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park, 741 Ft. Washington Ave., Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy outdoor playtime with the Imagination Playground’s moving play pieces, bean bag toss, arts and crafts, volleyball, and ping pong. WANT TO GO? 212-795-1600. whidc.org.

Watson Adventures: Wizard School Scavenger Hunt for Harry Potter Fans

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Track down serpents, Dumbledore look-alikes, and figures as scary as any Death Eater. Advance purchase required. WANT TO GO? $31-$39 (includes museum admission). 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.

Trailwork Party + Bike Share at Highbridge Bike Park FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 10am-3pm WHERE: Highbridge Park, West 174th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, Washington Heights AGES: All WHAT: Bring your friends and family for a day of fun in the woods and learn what it takes to build, maintain, and ride the most progressive urban bike park in America. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.

Nest Presented by Akin Theatre

WHEN: Oct. 23-27, daily, 10:30am and 12:30pm WHERE: Clark Studio Theater, 165 W. 65th St., Seventh Floor, Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Using playful poetry, music, movement, puppetry, and tactile play, Nest will awaken curiosity in babies and remind grown-ups of the wonder of being in the world for the first time. WANT TO GO? $25; $18 members. 212-875-5375. lincolncenter.org.

Shalom Sing-Along

WHEN: Through Dec. 23: Mondays, 10:15-11am WHERE: Congregation Or Zarua, 127 E. 82nd St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Start your little one’s day with song, dance, stories, bubbles, puppets, instruments, and more! Caregivers join in learning simple Hebrew, Jewish values, and favorite tunes. WANT TO GO? $16-$20. 212-452-2310 x15. orzarua.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS Stripes stART for Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder

WHEN: Saturdays, Oct. 12 and 26, 9:30-10:45am WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Hudson Square AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This engaging and fun bimonthly class encourages children to explore different art mediums through sensory experiences, music, and movement activities. Children build motor skills and self-regulated independence and social skills while connecting with their siblings and caregivers. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

CMS Kids: Creative Creatures

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 20, 11am and 3pm WHERE: Daniel and Joanna S. Rose Studio, 165 W. 65th St., 10th floor, Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Each CMS Kids program is an inclusive concert experience adapted for neurodiverse audiences, including children with autism or other special needs. WANT TO GO? $25. 212-875-5788. chambermusicsociety.org.

Inclusive Sundays for Children with a Physical Disability

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 7am-12pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Lower Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: After you’ve scared yourself silly during this haunted run, stick around for Halloween treats, including candy! WANT TO GO? $40-$45. 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

WHEN: Sundays, Oct. 20 and 27, 12:30-2:30pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Hudson Square AGES: 9-17 WHAT: This weekly drop-off course encourages young people to collaborate and get creative in both fine arts and media arts. Students are given the space to be independent from their parents, and activities are adapted to accommodate the specific abilities of each child. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Creative Play

Stripes Media Lab for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

NYCRuns Haunted Island 5K & 10K

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 1pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Explore Japanese culture and customs with a master storyteller and artist in interactive classes with seasonal themes. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 3. 212-832-1155. japansociety.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 9:30-10:45am WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Hudson Square AGES: 9-17 WHAT: This free monthly class uses art and technology to build peer-topeer relationships and digital storytelling skills. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org. ››

BigAppleParent 29

World Culture Festival: Dance!

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 12-5pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Explore how artists find inspiration and express themselves through movement. Experiment with motion through performances, storytelling, interactive gallery activities, and artist-led workshops. WANT TO GO? $25; free for children younger than 13. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS

Harlem Harvest Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 11am-4pm WHERE: St. Nicholas Avenue, between 117th and 118th streets, Harlem AGES: All WHAT: City meets country at this family fun fest! The kids zone has a children’s baking corner, face painting, pumpkin carving, cooking demos, a gardening activity, The Bubble Man, and more. WANT TO GO? Prices vary for food and goods. eventbrite.com/e/harlem-harvest-festival-2019-tickets-71326823449.

Little Red Lighthouse Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 12-4pm WHERE: Little Red Lighthouse, Fort Washington Park, West 181 Street and Plaza Lafayette, Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Manhattan’s only remaining lighthouse with readings of the eponymous children’s book, fishing clinics, live music, food and art vendors, Urban Park Ranger presentations, and activities for all ages. WANT TO GO? 212-628-2345. nycgovparks.org.

Pickle Day

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 6, 12-5pm WHERE: Orchard Street between Delancey and East Houston streets, Lower East Side AGES: All WHAT: Orchard Street will be lined with three full blocks of brine-filled vendors. Enjoy all things pickled from plenty of picklers and local eateries. WANT TO GO? Prices vary for food. pickleday.nyc

Harvest Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 6, 12-4pm WHERE: Ranall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Celebrate fall with live musical performances, pumpkin decorating, face painting, kite making, crafts, games, and more. WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Design Fest FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 19, 11am-4pm WHERE: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Audiences of all ages are invited to play designer and tackle design challenges in workshops, learn new design skills, and explore the museum. WANT TO GO? 212-343-0727. cooperhewitt.org.

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

CRAFTY KIDS CMOM’s Comic Book Maker

WHEN: Oct. 5-6, Saturday-Sunday, 3-3:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Collage panel squares, speech balloons, and thought bubbles as you draw your very own comic book using CMOM’s Comic Book Maker. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Lifebook Workshop for Adopted Youth

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 6, 2-5pm WHERE: Spence-Chapin Services to Children & Families, 410 E. 92nd St., 3rd Floor, Yorkville AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Kids can make a Lifebook or update an existing one to help process their unique adoption story and share it with others. WANT TO GO? $75 per child; $25 per additional child. 646-539-2167. spence-chapin.org.

The Uni Project Presents: Draw NYC FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 10: Thursdays, 2:30-5:30pm WHERE: Washington Square Park, Washington Square North, Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: The northwest corner of the park will host an open-air art studio that offers New Yorkers access to fine art materials and gets people drawing and creating together in public. WANT TO GO? worldsciencefestival.com.

Neighborhood Design

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: 5-10 WHAT: Explore how goals like better light, air, and green space shape some neighborhoods. Then design your own ideal neighborhood. RSVP required WANT TO GO? $5. skyscraper.org.

Art on the Farm FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 20: Saturday-Sunday, 2-4pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Join for art projects inspired by the farm. WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

My New Best Friend Is a Skyscraper!

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: 4-8 WHAT: Kids will explore the Supertall Wall to pick their favorite building, then design a character and comic based on that building to introduce to the group. RSVP required. WANT TO GO? $5. skyscraper.org.

Arts Island Outpost FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 27: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Travel to historic Governors Island for free hands-on, art-making workshops and art-viewing experiences! WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Family Workshops

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 2:30pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: 6-10 WHAT: Families will construct and decorate a beautifully bound project that can be used for any sketching, writing, or creating purposes. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 3. 212-832-1155. japansociety.org.

Saturday Sketching

WHEN: Through Dec. 28: Saturdays, 10am-4pm WHERE: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Art materials are available for exploration of architectural shapes and spaces. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 students and seniors; free for children younger than 12. 212-423-3500. guggenheim.org.

Open Studio

WHEN: Through Dec. 29: Saturday-Sunday, 10:30am-3pm WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Make your own art inspired by works on view. WANT TO GO? $25; $18 seniors and students; free for children younger than 18. 212-570-7713. whitney.org.

A non-sectarian program welcoming all children since 1952 Dedicated to children’s growth and learning Experienced, nurturing teachers Children ages 2.0-5.3 Specialists for Music, Movement, Studio, Gardening, & our Healthy Snack Program Large, airy classrooms, rooftop playground & an indoor play space

The First Presbyterian Church Nursery School 12 West 12th Street, New York, NY 10011 212.691.3432 | www.fpcns.org

Open Studio for Families

WHEN: Through Dec. 29: Sundays, 1-4pm WHERE: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Enjoy a drop-in, studio art-making program. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 students and seniors; free for children younger than 12. 212-423-3500. guggenheim.org.

Sundays: Studio Art Sessions

WHEN: Through Dec. 29, Sundays, 1-4:00pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Carnegie Hill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Paint, draw, sculpt, or craft a work of art inspired by exhibitions on view. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $18 adults; free for children and teens 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org. ››

www.FutureStarNYC.com FutureStarMusicArts@gmail.com (646) 828-5656 | (646) 656-1083

Future Star Music and Arts Center provides all levels of music and arts education to children. Our instructors graduated from world-top institutes (The Juilliard, Manhattan School of Music, Mannes School of Music, Berklee College of Music, NYC, UCLA etc.) with years of teaching and performing experiences. We will help children find and build their talents in music and arts. Find us, find the right choice!

CLASSES START ON JULY 6TH, 2019

BigAppleParent 31

Kids’ Night Out-Halloween

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 5:30-8pm WHERE: Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens, 37 W. 65th St., Third Floor, Upper West Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Kids can dress in costume, play some tricks, eat some treats, and make crafts. Enjoy a night out while your children spend the evening at BDC Children & Teens! Cheese pizza and cookies served. WANT TO GO? $40. 212-457-0035. broadwaydancecenter.com/children-teens/ kids-night-out.

Halloween Murder Mystery

HALLOWEEN Super Sabado: Día de Muertos Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 19, 12-5pm WHERE: El Museo Del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Ave., East Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Mexico’s beloved 3,000-year-old tradition that commemorates friends and relatives who have passed away with face painting, art making, and performances. WANT TO GO? 212-831-7272. elmuseo.org.

Halloween Howl & Healthy Hound Fair FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 20, 12-3pm WHERE: Carl Schurz Park, East 87th Street and East End Avenue, Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: More than 200 creatively costumed pups strut their stuff before a blue-chip fashion industry coven of judges! WANT TO GO? 212-459-4455. carlschurzparknyc.etapwss.com.

Pumpkins & Potions with The Creative Kitchen

WHEN: Oct. 19-20, see website for schedule WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: The Creative Kitchen takes over CMOM for a weekend of tricks, treating, and tastings with cooking demonstrations, food-inspired story times, sing-alongs, and more! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Gotham Gargoyles: A Halloween Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 10am-12pm WHERE: Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy a reading of Eve Bunting’s Night of the Gargoyles, then assemble gargling, grimacing clay gargoyles and dancing skeleton creatures, paint pumpkin rocks, and more! WANT TO GO? $10 per child, with accompanying adult. 212-316-7530. stjohndivine.org.

CMOM’s Halloweekend: Justin the Magician

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 2-2:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Join Justin the Magician for a spooky-good time! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org. 32

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Oct. 19, 25-26, Friday-Saturday, 6:15pm and 7:30pm WHERE: Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, 421 E. 61st St., Lenox Hill AGES: 9-17 WHAT: In this fictional mystery game, loosely based on an historic newspaper account, an unidentified skeleton has been discovered at the Mount Vernon Hotel. Explore the museum by candlelight, collect clues, and tackle challenges to unravel the mystery and solve the case. Reservations required. WANT TO GO? $25; $15 children younger than 12 and members. 212-838-6878. mvhm.org.

Watson Adventures: Ghosts of Greenwich Village Family Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Oct. 19-26, Saturdays, 3-5pm WHERE: Washington Square Park, Fifth Avenue and Washington Square North, Union Square AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Kids and adults work together to uncover the stories of creepy places and the ghosts that have haunted them. Advance purchase required. WANT TO GO? $17.50-$21.50. 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.

Night of 1,000 Jack O’Lanterns

WHEN: Oct. 17-27, Thursday-Sunday, 5-10pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Experience more than 1,000 illuminated jack-o’-lanterns, all hand carved by paid artists using real pumpkins! WANT TO GO? $26; $22 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3. 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Day of the Dead Festival FREE

WHEN: Oct. 26-27, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery, 131 E. 10th St., East Village AGES: All WHAT: Remember your departed loved ones by bringing copies of photographs to be part of the ofrenda (altar) and honor them throughout the celebration. WANT TO GO? manoamano.us.

Historical Hallowe’en Family Party

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 5-7pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Imagine the past through Victorian-era fortune telling, creepy crafts, and, of course, lots of candy. WANT TO GO? $20. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org/childrens-museum.

Trick or Treat the Terminal FREE

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 28, 11am-2pm WHERE: Grand Central Terminal, 100 E. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Sponsored by GoGo squeeZ, Grand Central is celebrating Halloween with trick-ortreating and family activities. WANT TO GO? 877-946-4868. grandcentralterminal.com.

Annual Halloween Parade

WHEN: Oct. 27-28, Sunday-Monday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Hudson Square AGES: All WHAT: Create spooky decorations, elements for your costume, and more. Then, jump in a parade to show off your costumes and creations! WANT TO GO? $13. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Astronomy Live: Spooky Space

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 29, 7pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Monstrous stars, devilish explosions, and frightful collisions! Get in the Halloween spirit and join astrophysicist Jackie Faherty for a virtual tour in the dome highlighting the universe’s scariest phenomena. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

Halloween Parade and Pumpkin Flotilla FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 30, 4-7pm WHERE: Central Park, Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, inside the park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox avenues, Central Park AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy pumpkin carving, crafts, spooky stories, a costume parade, a festive pumpkin patch, and the Conservancy’s signature Pumpkin Flotilla, which sets sail across the Harlem Meer at twilight. WANT TO GO? 212-860-1370. centralparknyc.org.

Musical Halloween Costume Runway and Dance Party

WHEN: Oct. 26-31, Saturday-Sunday and Thursday, 4:30-4:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Show off your Halloween costume by joining a parade around the museum and a Halloween dance party in the newest exhibit, “Let’s Dance!” WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

3-year-old through grade 8 Free UPK Full Science Lab, Music Room, Gym, and Art Studio Technology Lab and computers in classrooms Early drop-oﬀ and after school programs

Now Accepting Applications Tours Available Upon Request

Immaculate�Conception�School 419 East 13 Street, New York, NY 10009 (212) 475-2590 info@immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org www.immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org

Halloween Ghost Slime

WHEN: Oct. 26-31, Saturday-Sunday and Thursday, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Concoct a gooey batch of ghost slime. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Kids Kitchen: Freaky Foods

WHEN: Oct. 26-31, Saturday, 2pm and 3pm; Thursday, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Explore the strange and unknown world of some abnormal and possibly spooky dishes! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Spooky City

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 31, 2:30-5pm WHERE: Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Ave., East Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Trick or treat on a haunted New York scavenger hunt where you’ll hear spooky tales. Then decorate a pumpkin inspired by the exhibitions and take it home along with treats that originated in NYC. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $20; free for anyone younger than 20. 212-534-1672. mcny.org.

Two rigorous, arts-rich public elementary schools in the Lower East Side 100 Attorney Street New York, NY 10002 (212) 533-2743

220 Henry Street New York, NY 10002 (212) 964-3792

Now Accepting Students for Kindergarten to Grade 3 ◆ FREE AFTERSCHOOL ◆

www.manhattancharterschool.org BigAppleParent 33

HOLIDAY FUN Rosh Hashanah Shofar Sculptures

MINI

MUSICIANS Oran Etkin and Timbalooloo

WHEN: Sept. 30-Oct. 1, 1-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about the traditions of this holiday and make a Shofar (ram’s horn) to celebrate the new year! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Nom, nom with CMOM: Rosh Hashanah Sweet Treats

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This internationally touring jazz clarinetist and educator will perform songs from his new album. Oran and special guests will invite loads of audience interaction including singing, clapping, and drumming. WANT TO GO? $14-$17. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.

WHEN: Sept. 30-Oct. 1, Monday-Tuesday, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Kick off a sweet new year by making traditional Rosh Hashanah bites with a healthy twist! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Family Concert: Who is Chick Corea?

WonderSparks Puppet Theatre: The Silent Shofar

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Jazz at Lincoln Center, Broadway at 60th Street, Lincoln Square AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrate the life and music of pianist, composer and living legend Chick Corea in this hour-long educational concert program. WANT TO GO? Tickets start at $10. 212-721-6500. jazz.org.

Brown Rice Family FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 11am WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium, Broadway between 62nd and 63rd streets, Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: A fresh world roots band jamming towards global solidarity, Brown Rice Family provides the masses with distinctively organic global music. WANT TO GO? 212-875-5375. lincolncenter.org.

Sonnambula: Austrian Baroque

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 11, 7:30-9:30pm WHERE: Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Ave., Midtown AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Join Sonnambula for a journey through an intricate and mesmerizing sound world. WANT TO GO? $36. 212-352-3101. baruch.cuny.edu.

Alon Goldstein: Art of Imagination

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2pm and 3pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: It’s Rosh Hashanah Eve and there’s a big problem: the Temple’s shofar is gone! In fact, The Silent Shofar is a magical horn that “only good people can hear.” Baa along with Daisy the Ram in this very silly retelling of The Emperor’s New Clothes. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Charity Box Making

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 9, 3-3:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Learn about Yom Kippur, the day of atonement in the Jewish calendar, as you design a box to collect money for someone in need. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

High Holidays Family Services

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 22, 7-9:30pm WHERE: Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Ave., Midtown AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Enjoy an evening of classical music selections with your teen. WANT TO GO? $26. 212-352-3101. baruch.cuny.edu.

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 9, 10am WHERE: 92Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8, adult WHAT: These soulful, energetic, and creative High Holiday experiences include a live band led by Rebecca Schoffer. WANT TO GO? $75 per person. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

A Swingin’ ‘Sesame Street’ Celebration: 50 Years and Counting

Sukkah Installation

WHEN: Oct. 25-26, Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall, Broadway and 60th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: See some of your favorite feathered and furry friends, including Big Bird and Elmo, sing classic Sesame Street songs alongside the world-renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis. WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 212-258-9800. jazz.org. 34

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 1-3pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Contribute to an art-inspired sukkah (temporary hut) to celebrate Sukkot while learning about the traditions of this Jewish holiday. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

nymetroparents.com/register ››

The Culture Tree Presents a Diwali Puppet Show

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 2pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Explore Indian stories and folk tales to celebrate Diwali, or Dipawali, India’s biggest and most important holiday of the year. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Diwali Delights FREE

WHEN: Oct. 6-27, Sundays, 1-4pm WHERE: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., Flatiron AGES: 3-12 WHAT: A Sunday afternoon of activities celebrating Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. WANT TO GO? 212-620-5000. rubinmuseum.org.

ANIMAL LOVERS St. Francis Day Fair with Pet Blessings FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 6, 12:30-3:30pm WHERE: Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: All people and pets are encouraged to dress as their favorite animal in honor of Saint Francis. The day will feature appearances by the Mettawee River Dance Theatre, food trucks, pet adoption agencies, and the Great Animal Costume Parade! Priests will be available to bless pets for the duration of the Fair. WANT TO GO? 212-316-7530. stjohndivine.org.

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

212-666-4134 x 2 www.nyfacs.net | mba@nyfacs.net

THEIR BRILLIANT FUTURE STARTS HERE.

Junior Keepers

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 13, 9-10:30am WHERE: Central Park Zoo, East 64th Street, Upper East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Each session focuses on a different animal and includes creating some early morning enrichment for them. WANT TO GO? $60. centralparkzoo.com.

Urban Farm Exploration Days FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 19: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Explore crops, rice paddies, and fragrant herbs, and meet chickens! WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Mad. Sq. Dogs: Howl-O-Ween FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 27, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Madison Square Park, Madison Avenue and 23rd Street, Flatiron District AGES: All WHAT: Festivities include trick-or-treat giveaways, family portraits at the photo booth, hydration station, and paws-on activities presented by local partners. The event will culminate with a costume paw-rade around the Oval Lawn. WANT TO GO? 212-520-7600. madisonsquarepark.org.

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

APPLY NOW —

zetaschools.org/apply Excellent, free public elementary schools in your neighborhood

BigAppleParent 35 Zeta_Big Apple Parent_V3.55x4.7

raising kids baby

Baby’s Wish List ›› Don’t be overwhelmed by all the doodads and cute outfits—here’s how to streamline the process of creating a baby registry By Madeleine Burry

abies may arrive in their birthday suits, but these tiny humans need a whole lot of gear, products, and clothing on hand from day one. The task of creating a baby registry for all that stuff can be overwhelming. “And it doesn’t help that the market is oversaturated and ever-changing,” says Molly Pross, a baby gear expert and founder of Bump Bestie, a baby-planning service. Parents should register for 85-120 items, according to Pross. But which items are must-haves, and which can you safely skip? We asked experts—along with parents, the ultimate pros—to identify their picks for registries, along with advice for crafting a just-right list for your growing family.

Do you need a registry?

If you’re planning to have a baby shower—or anticipate that friends and family will gift your little one with presents—it’s a good idea to have a registry or wish list in place. That way, you can avoid receiving multiple sets of bassinet sheets when you don’t have a bassinet (or getting sheets that don’t fit your particular bassinet). You don’t want to worry about complicated exchanges and returns after baby’s arrival. Creating a registry also helps you get clear on what you’ll want and need to have on hand.

Where should you register?

Thanks to the Internet, registering is easier than ever. You can choose from any number of brick-and-mortar stores or online establishments, such as Target or Amazon. You can also create a registry that pulls in options from several retailers with sites such as babylist.com and myregistry.com. In general: Be mindful of the store’s return policy (just in case you change your mind), as well as

perks the store may offer to parents who register with them. In addition to registering online, Pross recommends registering at a local boutique. That way, people can touch and feel items, and you’re supporting a local business.

How do you make your wish list?

Try thinking in categories, Pross suggests. “Organizing into buckets gives you a much better picture and helps you prioritize. For example, nursery furniture can have a ten- to fourteen-week lead time [for delivery], so it’s best to get the big items ordered first,” she says. And while it may be tempting to add tons of items to your list— every single adorable outfit and every might-be-helpful product— Pross suggests a better strategy is to keep your list focused. “If you have everything on there, guests may end up buying things that you don’t need immediately,” Pross notes. It can be helpful to create a private section of your wish list—that only you and your partner can see—to save items you’re considering and to track the items you’ve purchased yourself, Pross suggests. Safety is an important consideration as you add items to your registry, says Joe Shamie, president of Delta Children. “Parents should check that the products they are interested in are Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association-certified,” he advises. Products with that certification meet the standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, as well as ASTM International, which develops standards used around the world. And don’t shy away from practical essentials, says Liz Jeneault, vice president of marketing for Faveable, and a Philadelphia-based mom of a toddler. Diapers, she says, are especially critical (since you’ll go through so many) as well as baby laundry detergent.

Madeleine Burry is a freelance writer and editor who has held staff positions at Parents.com, Scholastic, and About.com. Burry lives in Park Slope, Brooklyn, with her husband and their cat. You can follow her on Twitter @lovelanewest.

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

q q

AN IDEAL REGISTRY ››

The list of specific purchases varies from one parent to another. If you are planning to take advantage of a lot of hand-me-downs, for instance, your needs may be slimmer. A mom who plans to breast-feed will have different needs than a parent who’s opting to bottle- feed. That said, these are the most important items to consider. Nursery and Sleep A safe place for your baby to sleep is the No. 1 registry must-have, says Joe Shamie, president of Delta Children. “Portable cribs and play yards are the next best place for a baby to sleep if a crib isn’t available, making them great for short vacations or trips to Grandma’s,” he says. q Crib, along with a mattress and sheets q Changing table—or a changing table topper that you can fit on top of a dresser q Baby monitor q Rocker or gliding chair

q B aby bottles, a breast pump, and bottle cleaning supplies, including a drying rack: Check whether your health insurance plan covers the cost of a breast pump before adding it to your registry. q Formula q N ursing bras and supportive pillows: Liz Jeneault, vice president of marketing for Faveable and a Philadelphiabased mom of a toddler, recommends the My Brest Friend pillow. “It definitely helped me when I was super tired and struggling to stay awake! I feel it also helped my baby latch on better,” she says.

q S torage: closets, drawers, and other organizational systems. “Baby clothes are small, so it’s easier to have drawer separators or boxes to keep things organized,” says Molly Pross, a baby gear expert and founder of Bump Bestie.

Bath Time What will you need for bathing your infant?

q B aby swing and bouncy chair: These will allow you to put baby down in a comfortable—and safe—space, says Eva Klein, certified infant and child sleep consultant, mom of three, and owner and founder of My Sleeping Baby. “Otherwise, [parents] could find themselves holding the baby all day, which is exhausting!” she adds.

q Bath toys

q S waddle blankets: Klein notes that infants sleep best when they’re properly swaddled.

q A baby-sized towel and washcloths

q A soft cover for the bathtub faucet q An infant tub q S hampoo, soap, and lotion: Look for products specifically made for baby.

q W hite noise machine: Opt for one that won’t automatically shut off, Klein advises.

Transportation Even city parents who only rarely drive should get a car seat, says Sarah Haverstick, safety advocate at Evenflo. “You never know when you may need to utilize a taxi or ride-share vehicle,” she notes.

q S oothing and play items: Think: pacifiers and blankets, Pross says. And, you’ll want to have some toys and books for baby’s first six months, too.

q C ar seat: “Infant car seats are often compatible with strollers—which can make walking around town or getting in and out of ride-share vehicles even easier,” Haverstick says.

Clothing and Diapering What will baby wear? You may be surprised by how many times in a day you’ll change baby’s outfits—and diapers.

q Stroller

q A n outfit for coming home from the hospital—remember, you’ll be buckling your baby into a car seat, so choose something slim fitting with legs.

Safe to Skip q O utfits: Yes, you do need clothes for baby, but it might be a good idea to keep the number included on your registry low. “They grow out of them quickly, and I had so many left over,” Jeneault says.

q C lothing—including footed pajamas, bodysuits, side-snap tops, socks, and booties q Burp cloths q Sleep sacks q H ats, sweaters, swimsuits, snowsuits: These, of course, will vary depending on the season q Diapers, diaper cream, and wipes Feeding Your needs here will vary depending on if you’ll be breast-feeding or bottle-feeding.

q Wearable baby carrier

q C ar seat covers and accessories: These can present a health risk, Haverstick says, who recommends avoiding extra inserts, cushions, or fluffy harness covers. “You should only use items that are approved by your car seat manufacturer,” she says. Using ones that are not approved may compromise the performance of the car seat in a crash, she adds. q P illows and soft crib items: These are also best avoided for safety reasons, Shamie says, who advises parents to skip baby pillows, crib bumpers, plush toys, and other decorative items destined to live in the crib. “To keep your child safe, we recommend keeping a completely bare crib,” he says. BigAppleParent 37

family life home

Moving Right Along ››

10 ways to make a move easier on the whole family By Lambeth Hochwald

oving is considered one of the most stressful life events, and anyone who has done it knows why. The packing, organizing, re-organizing, and (literal) heavy lifting are always harder than anyone anticipated. Then there are the emotional detachments and re-attachments. “A move is a huge transition even if you’re going down the street,” says Nicole Black, who runs Coffee and Carpool, a parenting advice site. She should know—she has moved her three school-aged kids to three different states in three years because of her husband’s career. “While a move away from friends, family, and the only home a child has known can be traumatic and overwhelming, when you take the time to focus on helping your kids through this process, it becomes a smoother, more positive experience for everyone.” It’s never easy, but experts have found 10 time-tested ways to cope with a big move and ease the journey to a new home.

Focus on the Future

“Moving means two things: You want to be open with your kids about what they’re leaving behind, but you also want to get them focused on new adventures to come,” says Liz Tenety, co-founder of Motherly, a site for millennial moms, and a mom of three who has moved 10 times as a parent due to graduate schools, changing careers, and a growing family. “My husband and I know that our moves were hard on our kids, but by focusing on new people and experiences, they were able to stay resilient.”

Savor the Memories

“One way for your kids to adjust to this big move is to create a picture book about the house you are currently living in, especially if it is the home your kids were brought home to as infants,” Stitt says. “Have them go around and photograph or video a tour of the house, the neighborhood, and even their school. If they are moving more than an hour or two away, having pictures of their old life will give them something to share with their new life, and a younger child might even be able to bring the book to school for show-and-tell.”

Make Decluttering Fun

“When it came time to move, I created a ‘toy store’ so my kids could be part of decluttering their toys and books,” says Ali Wenzke, author of The Art of Happy Moving: How to Declutter, Pack, and Start Over While Maintaining Your Sanity and Finding Happiness. “We bring every single toy into one space and we display it like a toy store. Then the kids can ‘buy’ all of the toys they want to keep, and we donate whatever remains. Since we create toy store sections such as dolls, cars, puzzles, and board games, everything is already organized in sub-categories. Decluttering by sub-category makes the items easy to pack and unpack when you get to your new place.”

Don’t Forget to Supervise

“Especially if your kids are very little, you want to make the timing of a move very specific,” says Elisabeth Stitt, a parenting coach at Joyful Parenting Coaching. “This means you should put dates on the family calendar (even if they might change). Refer often to how much more time you have. For toddlers and preschoolers, make it as concrete as possible by tying the date to their regular routine, as in, ‘two more library visits before we go to the new library.’”

“It’s easy to get overwhelmed the days before and during a move,” says Sarah Drennan, a realtor at Terrie O’Connor Realtors in Allendale, NJ. “All the more reason to keep an eye on your kids to avoid what happened to me. I left my toddlers in a room with crayons and packing paper while I was cleaning, only to return to the room to find their art covering every wall. They drew on every wall the night before we were to close and hand our home over to the new buyers. Thank goodness for Mr. Clean Magic Eraser!”

Reassure Your Children

Hire a Sitter on Moving Day

Be Specific About Timing

“Your goal is to make sure your kids are involved in the process from beginning to end,” says Lisa Jacobs, a professional organizer in New York City. “Have a conversation with them about how exciting it is to move into a new home with a brand-new room, while assuring them that all of their favorite toys will go wherever they go.” 38

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

“Kids can easily get freaked out by the frantic scene that occurs when the movers arrive,” says T.J. Peterson, digital media coordinator at Oz Moving & Storage. “When parents hire a sitter, the kids will stay calm during the chaotic moving day scene, and your movers will be able to handle tasks unfettered.”

Focus on a Cool, New Bedroom

“If your child is especially stressed about an upcoming move, recast it and focus on how cool his or her new room will be,” suggests Kristen Wilkenson, founder of Mom Managing Chaos, a site that focuses on helping families stay organized. The mom of three children has moved 11 times in the last 15 years to facilitate job changes. “Is there a paint color he or she has in mind for the room, and how does he or she want it to be decorated? Make it fun by looking through décor magazines and Pinterest to get ideas. Start making the idea of the new place an exciting one.”

Get the Kids Settled First

“The first day you get to your new home will be very stressful, but it’s most important that you arrange your child’s space first,” Wenzke says. “Set up the bedding and create a quiet spot where he or she can be alone, if needed. This way, your child will have a private oasis to escape to during the moving chaos. Plus, you may even get a few minutes to unpack some of your own boxes.”

Tiger Strong karate!

Our core philosophy is to teach children skills that they can use in their normal everyday life. We help develop a child’s core athleticism and physical skills through basic gymnastics and martial art techniques using music, skill-based activities and games in fun, safe and nurturing environment. Kids are introduced to the basics of karate including the correct and safe method for punching and kicking.

Tiger Strong NYC • 917-453-6503 tigerstrongnyc.com “At the vanguard of a movement of startup schools seeking to foster learning experiences that map to the jobs of the future.”

Scout the Neighborhood for Other Kids

“Having moved my own children several times, I found that it was very important for my kids to meet other kids their age,” Drennan says. “Ask friends of friends if they know of any families with kids the same age or check out local mom groups. I noticed that once my kids had a friend or two nearby, they were better able to settle in.” Lambeth Hochwald is a New York City-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in NYC.

Research-Based Happiness www.portfolio-school.com 90 Hudson Street, Tribeca

FICTION, NON-FICTION, AND COOL WRITING FOR TEENS CONTACT: Meg Hunnewell at 212-346-9933 mhunnewell@theknowledgeproject.org www.theknowledgeproject.org/programs/fall-classes

I N T E R NAT I O NAL P R E S C H O O L

German & Spanish language immersion

Preschool • After School • Camps Ages 2–12 A nurturing setting that cultivates the growth and development of your child 212-206-1137 • info@pusteblumenyc.org www.pusteblumenyc.org

The Montess ori School of New York Internationa l

Apply now for January 2020 admission

Wisdom through Knowledge

Where Learning Comes To Life! Nursery through Junior High (Ages 2 - 14) • Summer Day Camp • Partial and Extended Day for Working Parents (8am-6pm) • Excellent placement record for Specialized High Schools and Gifted Programs • Accelerated Track for Gifted Children

montessorinyc@aol.com | ww w .montess or is choolny.com

347 East 55t h Street • 212-223-4630

Non-proﬁt educational, non-denominational & non-discriminatory

BigAppleParent 39

raising kids teen

The Disaster Zone

››

If your teen can’t seem to keep her room clean, no matter how much you nag her, we’ve got expert tips to help! By Lambeth Hochwald

f the last time you walked into your teen’s bedroom you walked right out, shocked by the sheer disarray, you’re not alone. Whether due to hormones or disinterest in cleaning, your teen’s bedroom can easily become tornados of dirt and mess. But is it her fault? “Teenagers’ brains are full,” says Jennifer Snyder, a certified professional organizer and owner of Neat as a Pin Organizing and Cleaning, who works with teens and their parents on ways to keep their rooms tidy. “They have school, driving, tests, sports, work, and other activities. Keeping their rooms clean is usually at the bottom of their priority list.” Another factor is parents are often the ones who design the layouts of their kid’s rooms—often without the child’s input—which is usually not consistent with how the teen wants to live. So, without letting your teen too far off the hook, how can you help him maintain some order?

Set Her Up for Success

Leslie Josel, an academic/life coach for teens and a parenting coach in Westchester, says parents have a responsibility to help their teens keep clean. “When parents ask me how to get their kids to organize their room and keep it that way, I lob a question right back at them,” she says. “I ask if their child’s bedroom is set up in a manner that makes it easy for them to create and maintain an organizing system. If they can’t answer that, I send them on a tour of the room.” Then she asks parents to answer the following questions to help them configure a neater space: • Can your teen open his closet door easily or is it partially blocked? • C an she reach the rod and shelves? • A re the dresser drawers hard to open? • I s his dresser crammed full? • Is there enough room for your teen to store all of her clothes? • Does he have enough hangers, hooks, storage bins, and boxes? • D oes she have adequate shelf space for books, memorabilia, electronics, etc.? • I s there a bulletin board or cork squares on the wall? • I s there a trash can and hamper? Are they in good condition and easy to use? • I s there a nightstand for a phone charger, tissues, lamp, water bottle? • A re there items that belong to other family members stored in your teen’s room? • D oes your teen know where everything in her room goes?

Tackle the Mess

The first rule of thumb when organizing is everything needs a home. “It’s really that simple,” Josel says. “No matter what your organizing style, if you don’t know where something lives in your room, you’re more apt to let it sit wherever it lands. That partially explains the landmine that is their floor!” Josel

offers 10 steps to get the cleanup underway. Before organizing begins, purge. Is the room loaded with empty water bottles, food wrappers, cords to electronics he doesn’t own anymore? Grab a garbage bag and out everything goes. Start designating specific “homes” for all her belongings. And make sure these spaces are clearly labeled. When your teen is tired after a long day, visual reminders make cleaning up that much easier. If your teen needs to see his stuff, remove the closet door. If you hate looking at his crowded closet, hang curtains above the opening so he can close it off when friends come over. Replace her dresser with bins lined against a wall to store shirts, jeans, socks, and underwear. This gives her an easy and simple way to get and stay organized. Hang hooks if he can’t seem to grasp the concept of putting clothes on hangers. Put all essentials in your teen’s “prime real estate,” which means these items should be stored between his shoulders and knees for easy access. If you have to reach high or move several items out of the way in the closet to put something away, then the likelihood of your teen doing it is super slim. Leverage the walls. If there’s ample wall space in your teen’s room, hang a bulletin board, cork squares, or even a peg board. They all come in fun colors, are easy to hang, and provide space for notes, invites, and anything else that is hard to organize. Maximize space with a clear shoe bag. Hang one in her closet or behind the bedroom door and stash small items, like device chargers, jewelry, socks and underwear, belts, and toiletries, for an instant catch-all. Clear is king: If your teen can’t see it, it doesn’t exist. Don’t stop at clear shoe bags! Consider purchasing transparent bins to help your teen remember what he owns and strategize where it goes. Pair like with like. This means storing printer paper, ink, toner, and even batteries together. The fewer places your teen needs to look for things, the more likely she will be able to find what she’s looking for quickly and efficiently.

Lambeth Hochwald is a New York City-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in NYC. 40

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

LEARN SING PLAY and NAMASTE SIGN UP today!

http://www.orzarua.org/ or-latid/early-childhood/

127 EAST 82ND STREET

Shalom Sing-A-Long

Mondays, 10:15 – 11:00 am Recommended for ages 1-4 Parents, grandparents, and caregivers join us as we learn simple Hebrew, Jewish values, and favorite tunes! Never been to Shalom Sing-A-Long? Try your first class free! Shalom Sing-A-Long is in partnership with Tkiya.

Yoga, Goga, Shabbat!

Fridays, 10:00 – 11:00 am Recommended for ages 1-4 Parents, grandparents, and caregivers get in the Shabbat mood with little ones through yoga, Jewish meditation, and sensory exploration! Yoga, Goga, Shabbat is in partnership with My Hebrew Playground.

Contact Sigal Hirsch for more information shirsch@orzarua.org, 212-452-2310 x15

BEGINS OCTOBER 16 Are you parenting a child with Executive Function / ADHD Challenges? Set Boundaries • Boost Motivation • Improve Communications Increase Compliance • Reduce Homework Stress Reduce Chaos and Challenging Behaviors Minimize Power Struggles, Meltdowns, and Explosive Outbursts * Attend Session 1 for only $55. To continue with the remaning 4 sessions add $400 Receive a 10% discount by mentioning NYMETRO PARENTS.

Andrea Elrom, M.A. Ed., ACC 201-240-0921 | elrom.andrea@gmail.com 270 Madison Avenue Suite 1503, New York NY 10017

We Tutor, Enrich & Nurture Successful Students!

Private Tutoring by NYC Teachers for Pre-K-12th Grade successful students NYC • 646.634.9420 successfulstudentsnyc.com

BigAppleParent 41

family life finance

Can You Afford to Stay Home? ››

Financial advisors outline what to consider when deciding whether to go back to work or become a stay-at-home parent. By Jacqueline Neber

any new parents wonder if one of them can stay at home with the kids without straining their finances and current lifestyle. There are several factors at play in that decision, including salary, retirement outlook, and plans for education. It’s a stressful analysis, but financial advisors can offer families crucial feedback about the potential consequences of a parent leaving work, and if stay-at-home parenting makes sense for them. Sheraz Iftikhar, a managing partner at Arch Global Advisors in New York City, uses several different metrics to figure out how much time at home families can afford. If one parent stays home, he says, the family should ideally be able to afford the same lifestyle as before. Sometimes staying home with your child is more important than the potential revenue from going back to work, but before making that decision, you must consider all of the variables.

Planning for Retirement

If one parent leaves work, the couple should still be able to contribute the same amount to their retirement fund. Iftikhar says 5-10 percent of disposable income made by a couple between the ages of 30-40 should go into retirement savings; that number should increase by 5 percent for a couple between 40-50. “Now why is that important?” Iftikhar asks. “If you are in your thirties and you’re not able to put away five to ten percent, because now one spouse decides to stay at home, that becomes a difficult decision. Our advice then would be, yeah, you may be able to survive today, but what happens five years down the road and ten years down the road?”

College Tuition

Saving for college is another big issue to consider. Inflation in education is just north of 6 percent for private institution tuition— which means a private college’s current tuition will double in 1213 years. Parents must be aware that if one stops working, they might not be able to save comfortably for their kids’ college. However, parents can take some of the anxiety out of the college situation by talking about what kind of college they are targeting, Iftikhar says. Private tuition can be incredibly expensive and public schools can be much more affordable. In fact, the price disparity is so large, Iftikhar suggests parents make the discussion a priority. Brian Cohen, a principle investment advisor at Landmark Wealth Management in Melville, agrees it’s vital that parents are on the same page about education. Beyond public versus private schools, 42

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

both should agree on whether they want to pay for their children’s entire education or make the kids contribute. “What I wanted [my kids] to do is at least have skin in the game. I said, ‘I’ll pay for a SUNY—anything above a SUNY cost is on you if you really want that,’” Cohen says. On the other hand, if parents want to pay the entire tuition cost at whatever their child’s dream school may be, they may not be able to afford to have one parent stay at home. “There are tradeoffs on both sides,” Cohen says.

Re-Entering the Workforce

Chris Congema, a certified financial planner at Landmark, raises another potential consequence of one parent leaving the workforce—it’s difficult to get back into it. “If someone’s going to be leaving the workplace for ten years or five years as they’re raising their children…as technology and time pass them by, do they lose some of the skills that made them employable?” Congema asks. “Do they have to change careers? Will their education still make sense now? Getting back into the workforce can be a challenge after you’ve been out for so long.”

Making Difficult Decisions

Despite these challenges, Cohen and Congema have noticed a shift in how parents are able to continue working and be with the kids by keeping flexible schedules or working from home. They have also seen an increase in stay-at-home dads with moms remaining in the workforce. And they’ve noticed that as couples marry and have kids later in life, they are more aware of the preciousness of watching their kids grow up—and of being around for early milestones. When making the difficult stay-at-home decision, having a financial planner can be vital. At Landmark, Cohen and Congema help couples figure out how much disposable income they have each month, whether they can go without one person’s income, and whether there is any “fat” in their spending that can be cut to mitigate losing one person’s salary. But even when all the numbers are in, some parents will still decide to buck the financial repercussions in order to spend more time with the kids. This is a decision that ultimately only parents can make. As Congema says, “[Spending time with the kids] during this important time when they’re forming a personality and who they will be in the future…that’s something that can’t be overlooked or understated.”

OPEN HOUSES 2019 Academy of Thought and Industry

917-338-2820 thoughtandindustry.com/manhattan manhattan@thoughtandindustry.com Join us for an open house on Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 5:307:30 pm, and an information session on Wednesday, Nov. 20, from 6-7pm.

Blue School

Pre-primary and Primary School 241 Water St., Seaport 212-228-6341 Upper-primary and Middle School 156 William St. blueschool.org Join us for an open house on Oct. 16 at 241 Water St. (2s-third grade) at 6pm, and Oct. 29 at 156 William St. (grades fourth-eighth) at 6pm.

The British International School of New York

20 Waterside Plaza, Kips Bay 212-481-2700 x204 bis-ny.org info@bis-ny.org Book a private tour to see just what makes BIS-NY the right choice for so many families looking for a truly balanced approach to education.

British Swim School Manhattan

Offering classes in Midtown West, Herald Square, or at-home lessons in your building’s pool 917-727-9942 Open House address: The Skyline Hotel, 725 Tenth Ave. (between 49th and 50th), Hell’s Kitchen britishswimschool.com/manhattan goswimmanhattan@britishswimschool.com Free evaluations of swim skills for families interested in knowing which level is right. Evaluations in October on Monday or Wednesday afternoons. Please call to reserve a space.

The Cathedral School

319 E. 74th St., Upper East Side 212-249-2840 cathedralschoolny.org info@cathedralschoolny.org Visit The Cathedral School to learn about our preschool through eighth grade on Oct. 2 at 6pm, Oct. 17 at 9:30am, and Nov. 6 at 6pm.

China Institute

40 Rector St., 2nd floor 212-744-8181 x110 chinainstitute.org emarks@chinainstitute.org Join us for an open house Thursday, Oct. 24, 6:30-8:30pm (parents only), Thursday, Nov. 21, 6:30-8:30pm (parents only), or Saturday, Dec. 14, 11am1pm (families).

Dwight School

291 Central Park West, Upper West Side 212-724-6360 dwight.edu/admissions to register for an open house admissions@dwight.edu Visit us to find out what makes a world-class Dwight School education special, October 16, 22, 23, 29, 9-10:30am Preschool Open House; Oct. 2, 10, 30 from 8:30-10:30 am, Lower School Open House.

The École

111 E. 22nd St., Flatiron 646-410-2238 theecole.org; bonjour@theecole.org Please come visit The École at one of our upcoming open houses Wednesdays Oct. 23 at 8:15am, and Nov. 6 at 8:15am.

International Academy of New York Shelley Borror Jackson, head of school 4 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-641-0260 ianyc.org; info@ianyc.org Learn more at an open house this fall: Oct. 10 at 9am, and Oct. 24 at 6pm. Registration required at admissions@ianyc.org.

The Portfolio School

27 North Moore St., Tribeca 212-226-8252 portfolio-school.com admissions@portfolio-school.com Take a tour of our new campus, meet students and faculty, and get a glimpse at the joyful learning at Portfolio! Remaining spots on Oct. 25, 29, Nov. 14, from 9:30-11am.

Pusteblume International Preschool and Afterschool Programs 244 W. 14th St., Greenwich Village 212-206-1137 pusteblumenyc.org info@pusteblumenyc.org Visit our open house events on Oct. 17, Nov. 18, or Jan. 8. See our beautifully appointed, light filled facility featuring a large gross motor room.

SAY, Confident Voices

212-414-9696 x208, Kate Detrick say.org/programs/confidentvoices kate@say.org See what Confident Voices is all about! Contact Kate Detrick at 212-414-9696 x208 or kate@ say.org to schedule a visit to learn about SAY’s innovative programming for young people who stutter.

Professional

services

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

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS

clients ensure their well-being, plan for their future, and protect their interests.

JUDY GOLDSTEIN M.D.

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

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE AFFINITY HEALTH PLAN

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

LEGAL SERVICES ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN

250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216, Midtown West 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 provide personalized, high quality special needs estate planning and special education legal services at a reasonable cost. It also conducts free workshops on several topics for agencies, schools, and parent groups.

VISHNICK MCGOVERN MILIZIO LLP

570 Lexington Ave., Suite 1600, Midtown East 212-759-3500 3000 Marcus Ave., Suite 1E9, Lake Success 516-437-4385 255 Monmouth Road, 2nd floor, Oakhurst, NJ 732-531-8900 vmmlegal.com For 50 years, the law firm of Vishnick McGovern Milizio has helped private and business

SPECIAL NEEDS ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN

250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216, Midtown West 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 provide personalized, high quality special needs estate planning and special education legal services at a reasonable cost. It also conducts free workshops on several topics for agencies, schools, and parent groups.

THERAPY & COUNSELORS creADDIVE SOLUTIONS

Andrea Elrom, certified ADHD and Executive Function coach 201-240-0921 creaddivesolutions.com elrom.andrea@gmail.com ADHD/Executive Function coach, offering extensive knowledge on parenting challenging behaviors through workshops, individual and group sessions. Through her Calm and Connected@ workshop series (fall session begins Oct. 16), learn to improve the overall dynamics of family life.

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.

Kids Party Entertainment

Wetherby–Pembridge School

7 E. 96th St., Upper East Side 646-213-3400 wetherby-pembridge.org info@wetherbypembridge.org Join us on Oct. 8 and Oct. 30 at 9am or Oct. 24 from 6-7:30pm for an open house to learn more about Wetherby-Pembridge.

Face Painting, Cotton Candy, Balloon Animals, Magic, Games & Dancing NYC Birthday Clowns • (646) 961-4808 NYCBirthdayClowns@gmail.com • www.NYCBirthdayClowns.com

BigAppleParent 43

Mitzvah Market magazine Your Source for Ideas & Inspiration

Get Your FREE Copy

Mıtzvah Market 2018-2019

MITZVAHMARKET.COM

Your single source for:

g Entertainers g Caterers g Favors g Photographers g Invitations and more...

FREE COPY

Weaving a

Family Heirloom: A TAlliT TO TREAsuRE

Should You Have An

Unplugged

An IsRAEl BAR MiTzvAh JOuRnEy

CElEbRATIOn?

Moms

Questions

Tell All

TO AsK THE ExpERTs

❒ I want a free copy of the 2019 Mitzvah Market magazine Name Address City

State

Phone

Zip

Hot Party Trends

CheCKliST, Budget Worksheet and TiMeliNe

Photo Credit: André Maier

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Photo Credit: André Maier

Photo Credit: Beth Capuano

Davler Media Group Fax: 212.271.2239 • Call: 914.290.4716 Email: Distribution@davlermedia.com 213 W 35th St. Suite 12W, New York, NY 10001

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

dance

health

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

Future Star Music & Arts Center.....................................31

Dr. Judith Goldstein .......................................................25

birthday / party services Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum .............................48

developmental China Institute ................................................................41

home services Gooroo .............................................................................2

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

creADDive Solutions ......................................................41

NYC Birthday Clowns.....................................................43

First Presbyterian Church Nursery ................................31

music

ParentandChildNYC ......................................................10

Future Star Music & Arts Center.....................................31

The Knowledge Project .................................................39

The Ecole ......................................................................11

camps British International School of New York ........................12 Dwight School ..................................................................9

education

performing arts / acting

Epiphany School (The) ..................................................41

Academy of Thought & Industry.......................................5

Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum .............................48

Blue School ...................................................................41

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

British International School of New York ........................12

play spaces

China Institute ................................................................41

Hex & Co .......................................................................17

Montessori School of NY International ..........................39 Portfolio School (The) ....................................................39

Dwight School ..................................................................9

child care / day care

Epiphany School (The) ..................................................41

Blue School ...................................................................41

First Presbyterian Church Nursery ................................31

Gooroo .............................................................................2

Mommybites...................................................................47 Pusteblume International School....................................39

Immaculate Conception School - NY .............................33

Manhattan Charter School .............................................33

Academy of Thought & Industry.......................................5

Montessori School of NY International ..........................39

Blue School ...................................................................41

New York French American Charter School ..................35

British Swim School........................................................25 China Institute ................................................................41 Collina Italiana ...............................................................17

Osmo ...............................................................................3

Portfolio School (The) ....................................................39 Pusteblume International School....................................39 SAY, Confident Voices....................................................12 The Ecole ......................................................................11

The Cathedral School ....................................................13

special events NYC Birthday Clowns.....................................................43

special needs creADDive Solutions ......................................................41 Successful Students NYC .............................................41

The Cathedral School ....................................................13

ParentandChildNYC ......................................................10

Immaculate Conception School - NY .............................33

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

Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East Village

Hex & Co .......................................................................17

Epiphany School (The) ..................................................41

SAY, Confident Voices....................................................12

Successful Students NYC .............................................41

Future Star Music & Arts Center.....................................31

Congregation Or Zarua ..................................................41

Portfolio School (The) ....................................................39

Congregation Or Zarua ..................................................41 and Upper East Side .......................................................9

religious

International Academy of New York ...............................11

classes

British International School of New York ........................12

SAY, Confident Voices....................................................12

The Ecole ......................................................................11 The Knowledge Project .................................................39

sports British Swim School........................................................25 Dwight School ..................................................................9 Tiger Strong NYC ..........................................................39

Wetherby-Pembridge School..........................................13 Zeta Charter Schools .....................................................35

family entertainment / events / outings Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum .............................48

tutors Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East Village and Upper East Side .......................................................9 Gooroo .............................................................................2

The Knowledge Project .................................................39

fitness

Osmo ...............................................................................3

Tiger Strong NYC ..........................................................39

British Swim School........................................................25

Successful Students NYC .............................................41

BigAppleParent 45

raising kids voices

The (Not-So) Sweet Season ›› One mom’s account of surviving the planning of the epic birthday blowout By Suzanne Bergen

y daughter, Kasey, just had her Sweet 16. That thing sucked up more time and energy than my wedding did. The extravaganza, from what I can tell, is a phenomenon unique to our area and coastal California. Relatives and friends in Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Ohio, and, for that matter, Canada, were all like, “What are you talking about…?” Kasey has been invited to six Sweets (as the girls call them) in as many months, with plenty more in the pipeline. Not a one is what we might remember from our high school days, i.e., a backyard barbecue in summer or a sleepover. Among them was a Vegas Night blowout of 150 guests at country club. Another invitation, to an Under the Sea gala, came wrapped in an aquamarine tulle ribbon adorned with a real sand dollar that had been sealed to keep it from breaking in the mail. Yes, this is all nuts for a seemingly random birthday. But as a mom, you want your kid to have and do what her friends have and do. It’s a hard emotion to resist, even if your brain knows the money could be better spent. Here’s how Kasey’s fete compared to my 1994 wedding: Wedding: The caterer asked what color flowers I wanted on the tables, since they came with the standard wedding package. “Red, I guess, since the bridesmaids are wearing red.” The End. Sweet 16: To come up with the perfect centerpieces for Kasey’s Fashion theme, we evaluated 8,997 Pinterest images. We settled on square glass jars with Chanel labels and a drop of pink food coloring in the water (One drop! Not too dark!) so they look like perfume bottles, but with light pink, white, and blush wildfloweresque flowers in them. No roses. (Even the florist didn’t know the difference between blush and light pink.) I had to go to a craft store to buy the exact right glass jars…well, two craft stores, because the first one didn’t have enough. Then we downloaded and printed out Chanel perfume labels, changing No. 5 to No. 16 (get it?), bought food coloring, and picked up strands of fake pearls to drape over the flowers, because wasn’t Coco Chanel famous for her pearls? After presenting all of this to the florist, he informed me I had to Mod Podge the labels in case water splattered on them. Wedding: I ordered the second dress I tried on. It came in. It fit fine…I didn’t really love the sleeves, but I didn’t want to complain because the lady was nice. The End. Sweet 16: I took Kasey to nine stores over the course of six Saturdays before she found The Dress. These outings were always accompanied by Kasey’s BFF, Molly, who would buzz around fishing out about a dozen dresses she thought Kasey would like.

Kasey wound up trying on eight to 10 of Molly’s dozen at each of the stores, so you do the math. At the end of each exhausting expedition, the three of us were hungry, and given Molly’s undying patience, I felt the least I could do was treat her to the diner. I spent I don’t know how much on diner meals capping off fruitless dress searches, listening to the girls discuss high-level matters (should the boyfriends of Kasey’s friends get their own invitations?). We finally secured The Dress at a shop 50 minutes away, and Kasey needed not one, not two, but three fittings at this far-flung locale. Wedding: The best man gave a short, nice speech. The End. Sweet 16: The candle ceremony, during which the birthday girl recites a short poem in honor of each important person in her life, has more moving parts than 16 candles (Sorry; 17. I kept forgetting the one for good luck). Kasey decided on floating candles, so there were canisters of varying heights. Don’t even ask about the water. A specially decorated candle lighter was needed, as was her name spelled out in big sparkling letters in front of the candles. Then there was the matter of drafting 17 poems that not only, obviously, rhymed, but suitably encapsulated Kasey’s history with and feelings for that person, yet wouldn’t take longer than 45 seconds to recite. One candle had two people attached to it (her Girl Scout co-leaders), so that poem alone took an entire evening to craft. Then the DJ reminded us that Kasey needed to pick a song snippet for him to play as each person was called up. Seventeen song snippets that suitably encapsulated Kasey’s history with and feelings for that person (or Girl Scout co-leaders). I asked one sympathetic veteran mom, “Please tell me it will be worth it?!” She said it would be when I saw how happy Kasey was. She was right. My Kasey was beaming all night long. The restrained, quiet, hard-to-read teen was gone, replaced by a silly, laughing girl, clapping, spinning, and jumping up and down—and not just on the dance floor. The last candle lit that night was for me. Kasey said she saved the best for last and thanked me far more eloquently than I had ever heard her speak. The feeling I couldn’t shake in the weeks running up to the big day, that I had done all this, and she wouldn’t appreciate it, was unfounded. My song snippet was from “Wind Beneath My Wings:” It might have appeared to go unnoticed; But I’ve got it all here in my heart; I want you to know I know the truth, of course I know it; I would be nothing without you. Now I’m among the veterans. Molly’s Sweet is up next. Kasey’s been running around with her dress shopping (payback is…well, you know). Her mom asked if she could use our floating candle canisters. When I dropped them off, she said, “This is a lot!” I said, “Yep…Let me know how I can help. But it will all be worth it.”

Suzanne Bergen is Long Island writer who marked her son’s 16th birthday with bagels and new sneakers.

October 2019 | nymetroparents.com

EMPLOYERS Moms Make Great Part-Time Staff People

LOOKING FOR STAFF? POST YOUR JOB MOMMYBITES.COM/POSTJOB • Admin • Customer Service • Marketing • Sales • Editorial • Other Jobs

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.