BigAppleParent FEBRUARY 2017
NYMETROPARENTS.COM
Amazing Camp Experiences
Kids tell us why summer camp is so special
Plus: Find the right camp
Adulting 101
How to raise kids ready for life
Manhattan s
Caring Kids
Your amazing stories of giving back to the community
INDOOR PLAY SPACES
•
TEACHING KIDS CONSENT
SU M M E R GROW T H SPU RT Usdan is an award-winning day camp for students ages 4-18 to explore the arts, sports, digital media and more on our Long Island campus in the woods. JOIN US FOR A VISIT AND INFORMATION SESSION: Long Island Campus Session: Sunday, February 5 NYC Upper West Side Session: Saturday, February 11 Reservations required. Visit usdan.org/visit.
FOR $100 OFF NEW STUDENT TUITION 2
USE PROMO CODE: BIGAPPLE February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
SUMMER CAMP FOR THE ARTS 1-844-818-6223 | USDAN.ORG #USDAN
CHOOSE YOUR OWN
ADVENTURE ABOARD INTREPID
Discover our legendary aircraft carrier, the first space shuttle, the world’s fastest jets and a guided missile submarine all while learning about American innovation and bravery.
Spend a night aboard Intrepid and enjoy exclusive, after-hours access to the Museum, educational activities, tours, unlimited rides in our 4D flight simulator and more! BOOK TODAY FOR SUMMER: May 12 & 20, June 3, July 15, August 5 SENDING KIDS TO CAMP THIS SUMMER?
Ask about our camp group packages and educational programs.
CELEBRATE YOUR CHILD’S BIRTHDAY WITH A ONE-OF-A-KIND PARTY. Parties include admission for up to 30 guests, private party space, Museum staff, tours and activities. Packages starting at $30 per person CONTACT US at 646-381-5010 or
groupsales@intrepidmuseum.org for pricing and reservation information.
PIER 86, WEST 46TH STREET & 12TH AVENUE, NE W YORK CIT Y © 2017 Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
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NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions
Contents
February 2017 ››
56
Features
18 Manhattan’s Caring Kids Learn how area families volunteer 20 Adulting 101 How to get your children ready for the real world—while they’re still young 24 Why Camp Is Great Kids share why they love summer camp. 48 Teaching Kids Consent Tips to talk to children of all ages about appropriate and inappropriate touching 50 Demystifying the Dentist What to expect at kids’ dental visits, and how to keep their mouths healthty
20
54 Soup and a Sandwich Two combos to warm up on a chilly day
62
56 Learning to Ski A peek at how to New York mountains teach newbies the popular winter sport
Connections
6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 NYMP News: Mommybites Joins the NYMetroParents Family 12 Quotables 14 NYMP Q&A: Laurie Hollman, Ph.D., discusses parental intelligence 62 Voices: Why I hated all nine months of pregnancy
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Fun & Activities
Family Activities CALENDAR ››
35
Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com) Clothing provided by Appaman (appaman.com)
16 DIY Corner: Mini Terrarium 17 Media Matters: Family Favorite Films 32 Outing: Rye Nature Center 35 Family Activities Calendar 46 Where-To Guide: Indoor Play Spaces
Directories 26 58 59 60 60 61
Camp Guide Party Central Professional Services Open Houses Party Planner and Family Resource Guide Advertisers’ Index
››
ON THE COVER ›› 18 Manhattan’s Caring Kids 20 Adulting 101 24 Amazing Camp Experiences facebook.com/nymetroparents
46 Indoor Play Spaces
@NYMetroParents
48 Teaching Kids Consent
Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!
FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH
From school pictures to hundreds of family photos and thousands of selfies, children’s smiles brighten our lives. Let’s give them healthy smiles that will shine for a lifetime. Good dental habits start at a young age and continue as children grow with: • Regular dental checkups (2x a year) • Brushing and flossing (at least 2x a day) • A healthy diet with fruits and vegetables
Fidelis Care covers preventive and routine dental care for kids!
1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547)
TTY: 1-800-421-1220
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FEBRUARY 2017 • Vol32• No.2
EDITOR’S NOTE
Raising Kids Ready for Life
O
ne recent Sunday, we converted our youngest daughter’s crib to a toddler bed, and just like that, with 15 minutes of tinkering, she was on to a new, exciting stage of her life. Needless to say, the actual transition—from baby to toddler to stages beyond—is hardly that seamless or quick. As parents, our deepest hope is to raise our kids to be independent adults, able to navigate their way in the world successfully on their own. Lately, though, there’s been a focus in the media on the difficulties many young adults face in doing that. “Adulting” has become a verb that connotes the conscious effort it takes to accomplish basic life skills. To help your kids avoid having to learn to “adult” when they are adults, we’re offering a guide to raise independent kids who will be ready for life in the real world when their time comes to leave your crib for their own grown-up lives (p. 20). When I was a child and especially a teenager, it was summer camp, particularly sleepaway camp, that had one of the most profound influences on my growth and readiness to be independent. The classroom gave me knowledge and the ability to think and understand, but the fields and hiking trails and activity centers of camp gave me the chance to do for myself and become the person I was meant to be. And I am far from alone in this. Since it’s now camp enrollment season, check out stories from kids around the region who tell us, in their own words, the impact camp has had on their lives (p. 24). As our kids grow up, there are any number of difficult conversations we must have with them. One involves touching—what is appropriate and what is inappropriate, and who gets to decide (short answer: they do). It’s never too early, and certainly never too late, to have this discussion; in truth, it’s likely more than one conversation, one you need to revisit over the years as your child matures. Since these talks are inevitably awkward and hard for you and your child, we hope our guide to discussing consent with kids of all ages helps as you address this important topic (p. 48). February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and we know going to the dentist can be scary and confusing for kids. To help, check out our explanation of common pediatric dental procedures and find some great tips for keeping your kids’ mouths healthy (p. 50). And, of course, this month also brings Valentine’s Day, and in that spirit, I wish you and your family a month of love and happiness.
NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke
ADVERTISING SALES Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 Jeunesse Jackson, Linda Pierce Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Ellen Klein Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Ellen Klein, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager, Dani Pollack Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Lisa Herlihy, Karen Shapiro To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Ray C. Guédez, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan
PRODUCTION
DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jiyon Son DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth
ACCOUNTING
CONTROLLER: David Friedman
Michael Kress Editorial Director
MARKETING
HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman
ADMINISTRATION
Connect With Us Every Day Wherever and whenever you need parenting advice and resources, we are here for you. Find useful articles, local business directories, event listings, and much more 24/7 at nymetroparents.com, and connect with us at:
facebook.com/nymetroparents
CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Barbara Byrd
Davler Media Group CEO: David L. Miller General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 nymetroparents.com davlermedia.com nybarbatmitzvah.com
twitter.com/nymetroparents instagram.com/nymetroparents And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/register to find out what’s going on in your area for families every week! 6
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN PARENT, FAIRFIELD PARENT and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2017, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39
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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS
nymetroparents.com/np-bap
Who: Daniel’s Music Foundation What’s New: Private music lessons, including recreational music sessions, during which an individual can explore multiple instruments, including voice. Daniel’s Music Foundation in East Harlem aims to empower individuals ages 3 to senior citizens with developmental and physical disabilities by combining recreational music programs with community and socialization. The nonprofit organization is in its 11th year and offers field trips for groups, as well as dinner dance parties for adults and pizza dance parties for families, so the special needs community can celebrate music together. DMF’s Core Program offers free music classes, which has a waiting list of six months to one year. Want More Info: 1595 Lexington Ave., 2nd Floor, East Harlem; 212-2898912; danielsmusic.org
Courtesy Joe Papeo, Joe Papeo Photography
Music Nonprofit for People with Disabilities Expands Offerings
Daniel’s Music Foundation empowers individuals ages 3 to senior citizens with developmental or physical disabilities through music.
Who: Camp Reece through Reece School What’s New: A residential summer camp for children with special needs, which is called Camp Reece, will be held at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs in July. The camp staff, including counselors in the fields of reading, language, counseling, and physical and occupational therapy, will provide services tailored to the individual child. The counselors are college students and college graduates, and the related-service staff members are licensed or certified in their fields. Campers will participate in a traditional sleepaway camp experience including sports, adventure, and the arts. Children can focus on an area of interest. Want More Info: Reece School: 25 E. 104th St., Manhattan; 212-289-4872; campreece.org
Courtesy Camp Reece
New Residential Summer Camp for Children with Special Needs
At Camp Reece, children will receive individualized services while having a traditional sleepaway camp experience.
Who: Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts What’s New: Classes in art and architecture, plus the option to attend a shorter, two-week camp session. The sustainable art curriculum, designed by Usdan staff and noted artist Olafur Eliasson’s Little Sun team, is also new to the 2017 season. “Usdan has a history of collaborating with major artists and cultural organizations,” says Lauren Brandt Schloss, Usdan’s executive director. Sessions are offered in two-, four-, or seven-week periods with classes for children ages 4-18. Other offerings include Quidditch, stop motion animation, building with Minecraft, and dance classes with Alvin Ailey, Martha Graham, and Pilobolus. Want More Info: 185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights; 631-643-7900; usdan.org 8
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Courtesy Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts
Long Island Summer Camp Expands Offerings
Usdan offers more than 70 programs in music, theater, visual arts, dance, and more.
r e m m Su
CAMP Ages 3-14
MOVE, LEARN, and GROW with Broadway
Dance Center Children & Teens this summer at our NEW UPPER WEST SIDE LOCATION! Our 1-WEEK DANCE CAMPS are the perfect way for girls and boys to learn about dance, make new friends, and create lasting memories. Designed for movers of all levels, these camps will give students the opportunity to try a variety of dance styles including Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Musical Theater, Lyrical, Contemporary, Breakdancing, Tumbling/Acro and more!
learn more at
BROADWAYDANCECENTER.COM/CTPW65 3 7 W 6 5 t h S t , 3 rd F l • N YC 1 0 0 2 3 « 2 12 . 5 8 2 .9 3 0 4 « C T P @ b w y d a n c e.com BigAppleParent
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Courtesy Mommybites
NYMP NEWS
These children are learning in one of America’s truly unique public schools. Shouldn’t yours be as well? Harlem Hebrew, an outstanding public charter school in District 3, is now taking applications for K-5th Grades. This academically excellent school serves children from all backgrounds. We have two (sometimes 3) teachers in the classroom across all curricular areas. Our program includes two hours of Reading and Writing each day, one hour of Math, one hour of Modern Hebrew* taught by native speakers, along with science, social studies, art, music, daily physical education, Apply by April 1st. chess, and more. Lottery Date: April 6th. *We are a public school and as such, do not teach religion.
APPLY ONLINE TODAY:
www.harlemhebrewcharter.org
147 St. Nicholas Ave., NY, NY 10026 10
From left: Heather Ouida, Rebecca Dixon, and Laura Deutsch, the moms behind Mommybites
Mommybites Joins the NYMetroParents Family ›› Mommybites.com provides parents with trusted Nanny Boards, online classes, local events, and more. By Caitlin Berens
N
early 10 years ago Laura Deutsch was a new mom living in Manhattan, eager to find a community. So in 2006 she created one on her own, a grassroots events company for local moms. She partnered with Heather Ouida in 2009, and today Mommybites is an online parenting resource offering education, nanny placement, and activity information services for families in New York City and beyond. Mommybites offers two to three convenient online classes for parents each month such as the upcoming Support Your Child’s Development Through Play, as well as many other topics, including infant and toddler sleep, potty training, and preschool readiness. These classes are always free. On the mom-generated Nanny Boards, parents can post their trusted nannies looking for work or find a mom-approved nanny for their own family. By visiting mommybites.com parents can sign up for a weekly newsletter, read articles written by experts, and check out the jobs-for-moms portal. Mommybites was recently acquired by Davler Media Group, owner of NYMetroParents. “Mommybites is a great brand and perfect fit for NYMetroParents,” says David Miller, CEO of Davler Media Group. “We look forward to bringing Mommybites’ online education classes and Nanny Boards to the one million families we reach every month. Their editorial content also expands our offerings for parents of newborns and toddlers.” Mommybites’ recently appointed managing director, Rebecca Dixon, joined the team in 2011. The Manhattan mom of three will take over as the head of Mommybites, with Deutsch and Ouida staying on as advisors. “I’ve been fortunate to have the opportunity to help Mommybites grow into one of the most respected parenting resources in the greater New York metro area,” Dixon says. “I’m excited to leverage the expertise of the NYMetroParents team to grow our offerings.” Visit mommybites.com to find a nanny, post a nanny job, or sign up for an online class.
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Big Apple Parent.indd 1
1/10/17 10:59 AM
E N R E U H F S T R R E TA
S M M U S
EARLY BIRD PRICING Register by May 19 & Save!
CHELSEA PIERS SUMMER CAMPS Golf • Performance Golf • Ice Hockey • Acceleration Hockey
THE AREA’S BEST YOUTH SPORTS DAY CAMPS FOR AGES 3 - 17 YEARS BAP Full Camp 2-17.indd 1
Ice Skating • Gymnastics • Basketball • Elite Soccer Sports Academy • Urban Adventure for Teens
chelseapiers.com/camp 11 BigAppleParent 1/23/17 5:03 PM
UOTABLES Be true to yourself, and don’t throw shade at other moms. Please, please let’s just throw away our Judgy McJudgerson Pants because, for starters, judgy pants were, like, so 1990s, and they never looked good on you anyway. —Heather Sadlemire, in a post entitled “The Best Resolution I Ever Made Was To Quit Mom-Shaming,” on scarymommy.com
in an instagram Max has had a fascination with #LadyLiberty ever since we visited #EllisIsland and requires a photo with her every time we see her now. Except the creepy guy in Times Square. I have to draw the line somewhere, but you have to love his patriotic passion! (Posted by @missstephanieb, aka Stephanie B., who blogs at footballfoodandmotherhood.com)
THE MAGIC BEGINS
in an instagram You guys, the new subway is almost here!!! Open house for the public today at 96th Street. #MyRide#2ndAveSubway #nyc (Posted by @thenycjenny, aka Jenny, who blogs at nycjenny.com)
“Seeing and experiencing New York (outside of the city), is easy. Within an hour the city turns to dust in the distance and you are shown expansive lands, lakes to swim, towns with feasts, and mountains to hike. Experiencing this as a family…. has been the greatest gift.” —Latonya Yvette, in a post entitled “Experience New York: Hike Up Bear Mountain,” on her blog, blog.latonyayvette.com.
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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
“Suddenly the lights went out and the students started to scream and shriek. Tiny pairs of eyes began to light up on and around the stage. The music gained momentum. The Inside Broadway experience had begun. Students heard from the actors, both in and out of costume, as well as the behind-the-scenes crew responsible for the lighting, props, makeup, music, set, and more.” —Caitlin Berens in an article entitled “NYC Students Get a Peek Behind the Scenes of ‘Cats’ on Broadway.” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/cats-on-broadway.
MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Find where you can celebrate at nymetroparents.com/black-history. DISCOVER HISTORY: Check out historical locations in and around New York City at nymetroparents.com/historical-places TAKE A TRIP: Discover amazing winter day trips in the NYC area at nymetroparents.com/winter-trips. HIT THE SLOPES: Where to ski and snowboard (nymetroparents.com/ski)
UNDER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS…
TO JEFF LAKE CAMP WE GO! WITH DAILY TRANSPORTATION from Lower Manhattan
COME VISIT!
Open Houses at camp Sunday February 12 Sunday March 12
JeffLakeCamp.com
60 years. One family. Three generations of leadership. BigAppleParent 13
NYMP Q&A
Finding the Meaning Behind Your Child’s Behavior ›› By Bethany Braun-Silva
Laurie Hollman, Ph.D., is a psychoanalyst who recently wrote the book Unlocking Parental Intelligence. What is parental intelligence? The crux of parental intelligence is trying to understand your child’s mind. Finding meaning in the child’s behavior, trying to understand the underlying issues of the behavior, and how to solve that behavior. It’s slowing down, pausing, taking no action, which may be counterintuitive to most parents, and instead taking the time to review the behavior, going over what your child did, when they did it, and looking for a sequence to track the behavior. It’s suspending judgment about your child’s behavior as well as your own parenting behavior. It gives you permission to not know what to do. If you don’t understand how to do something, then what can you do about it? When kids see parents taking their time, it has a calming effect on the situation. What advice do you have for handling outbursts or temper tantrums in public? I think the key is that you’re in public. The parent is often humiliated and embarrassed, and the child isn’t listening. If the behavior really gets out of hand, I would leave the store. That isn’t a time where you can sit and understand the child’s feelings. You need to remove them from the environment. It is inconvenient and you don’t get the shopping done, but it gives you a chance to slow the child down and not give them the experience of a full-blown temper tantrum. Once you’re home and time has passed where they’ve calmed down, you can use parental intelligence to figure out what was going on and what is behind this behavior. Parental intelligence sounds like an effective way to parent, but do you believe in any more traditional forms of discipline? The word discipline comes from the word disciple, which means teaching. If you think about wanting to teach your child a lesson, using parental intelligence is the best avenue. Most parents give consequences for bad behavior immediately and react immediately. This is usually not effective because the child doesn’t understand the punishment necessarily. They stop and follow the punishment but they don’t learn from it. Parental intelligence is discipline, but it is from a different point of view. It is an approach that says, “I know what is in my child’s mind, I know how to solve it.”
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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Success starts with thinking one move ahead. Apply Now at SuccessAcademies.org
BigAppleParent 15
©2017 Success Academy Charter Schools.
DIY CORNER
Mini Terrarium
One of the best ways to use a large jar is to transform it into a terrarium. I love succulents and they have made a real comeback recently. What better way to display them than with fun pink flamingos and decorative white sand—a mini beach scene for your table! In the smaller jar, a gold-painted dinosaur roars out from a succulent forest—I think the little ones in your life will appreciate this one. Make sure your jar is big enough for your plant to grow, so search the supermarket shelves for the biggest jar they have! Editor’s note: We love this idea for showing your valentine how much they mean to you! You Will Need Large glass jars Pebbles Potting compost Small plants, such as succulents Decorative fine white sand Small pebbles or gravel Little ornaments Directions 1. S tart by placing a layer of pebbles in the base of your jar—this will help with drainage and will prevent the potting compost from becoming waterlogged.
2. Put a layer of potting compost on top and position your plants. 3. Top with more potting compost, firming it in around the base of the plant, then add a layer of decorative sand or pebbles. 4. Place your chosen ornaments around the plants for a whimsical effect. 5. Water the plants very carefully, trying not to disturb the sand or pebbles. Succulents and cacti make a good plant choice as they require little watering. Crafting with Mason Jars by Hester Van Overbeek, CICO Books, $19.95. rylandpeters.com. Photography by CICO Books.
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22 Trails | 11 Lifts | 100% Snowmaking | Lesson | Rentals | Ski & Stay Packages | A FUN Family Mountain An easy drive from the NY Metro area into the Berkshires | 380 State Rd., Great Barrington, MA 01230 | (413) 528.2000
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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Media Matters: Favorite Family Films
A Beautiful Planet (G)
Recommended Age: 6+ H
HHHH
A stunning look at Earth—and hum
For Oscars season, some top 2016 picks
Arrival (PG-13)
Recommended Age: 11+ H
anity’s sobering impact on it
HHHH
A great, deeply thoughtful, compas
sionate sci-fi tale
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (PG-
Recommended Age: 11+H
HHH
13)
This epic but violent adventure offe
La La Land (PG-13)
Recommended Age: 13+ H
rs diversity and role models.
HHHH
A profound, beautiful film about love
and creativity
In Theaters Feb. 10: The Lego Batman Movie
Our Partner: Common Sense Media An independent nonprof it that helps families make smart media choices. Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org
Parents need to know that The Lego Batman Movie gives one of the most popular characters from The Lego Movie his own super spin-off. In a Gotham City completely built out of Lego bricks, mysterious hero Batman (voiced by Will Arnett) sulks in his mansion/Batcave while his disappointed butler, Alfred (Ralph Fiennes), tries to get him to take a greater interest in his adopted son, Robin (Michael Cera). Batman eventually agrees to take Robin under his wing, so to speak, but he must learn that if he wants to save the day, he can’t go it alone. While much of the fun-loving spirit of the first Lego movie remains, this one seems like it might be more oriented toward older kids. The animation is darker and edgier, and the humor seems more reliant on rude behavior (for example, Robin loses his pants, and Batman accidentally karate-chops Alfred into a piano). But kids are sure to want to flock to this “block”-buster.
See more at NYMetroParents.com/media
YOUR CHILDREN SHOULD BE 100% “PRIVATELY TUTORED”
Today, the savviest and most ambitious parents (especially the ultra-wealthy) are quietly pulling their children out of even the most prestigious of private schools in Manhattan. Hi, I’m Dan and I design comprehensive and customized educational plans for families who truly want to unlock their kids’ full potential. I implement a hybrid of local classes and actvities, some hands-on parenting, online courses and resources, selfteaching, rich experiences, world travel, and 1-on-1 private tutoring from the very best teachers available. The relative proportions of which vary somewhat from family to family, from sibling to sibling, and over time BUT the results are always PHENOMENAL - acceleration 3, 4, 5, and even 6 grade levels above normal and outrageous success in extra-curricular endeavors. I work directly with children and employ the same strategies that got my son to algebra by age 5, to finish the Harry Potter series at 6, and to calculus by age 7! Still only 11, now he’s also a chess champion, a piano prodigy, a web designer, and has his own podcast on iTunes (“The Johncast”).
*Remember, schools fail the smartest and most talented children...far more than any others.*
For a FREE CONSULTATION on how you can hyper-accelerate your kids’ education,
call 888-639-5512, or email Dan@EinsteinBlueprint.com
UNLOCK
YOUR KIDS’ FULL POTENTIAL! BigAppleParent 17
Caring AWARDS Kids
Manhattan’s Caring Kids We asked how your family gives back, and here are your stories of amazing kids who make our community better every day. ›› For the NYMetroParents Caring Kids Awards, we invited you to submit stories and photos of families and kids who do volunteer work to help others. We hope you will be as inspired as we were by these stories of young Manhattan residents committed to making the world a better place and helping those in need. These local kids are making a difference in the community every day, and we salute all of them!
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As Caring Kids Award Recipients, Amanda and Ryan will receive a $500 gift card and certificates of recognition for their community service.
Sisters Throw Christmas Party for Homeless Families
A Family Helps Maintain Green Spaces Our family of four believes that NYC’s parks and green spaces make the city a better place for everyone, so whenever we can, our family helps out. Ever since our children were tiny tots, my husband and I have brought them to It’s My Park Day across all of Lower Manhattan (all the parks are our parks!) to connect them to how much effort goes into keeping our gardens green. Now that they are a bit older, we also participate in Riverkeeper activities, Urban Farm, New York Cares Day, and with Open Space Greening, among others. We also help clear trails upstate. Caring for our green spaces is caring for the right to breathe easy; in a concrete world, digging our fingers into the soil connects us to our own roots. Our kids have grown up feeling like stewards of the parks, and we encourage this—helping maintain the lovely green spaces in our city makes all of New York more enjoyable for everyone!
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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
I have been volunteering myself for the past 15 years in various ways in and for my community and hoping my girls, now 9 and 11, would follow in my footsteps. My daughter Megan and I have been hosting a homeless children’s family holiday party for the past 15 years through HAI. It is a wonderful way to start off the holiday season—these shelter families have nothing and have no Christmas. Four years ago my “mini me” asked if she could come and help wrap, label, and organize the toys and gifts for the children and teens. She got to see the joy on their faces when they came into the venue and also when they got to see Santa Claus. We also give money and food to the homeless on our city streets. My girls will even give their own $1 to anyone they feel needs it.
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Twins Amanda and Ryan raised money for Debbie’s Dream Foundation for their mitzvah project. They focused on two fundraisers: The first was an all-day lemonade stand, and for the second one they were involved in the planning of the NYC event Night of Laughter at the Gotham Comedy Club. They have run many successful events for years for Debbie’s Dream Foundation. This charity is near and dear to their hearts because their Aunt Debbie started the charity as she has stomach cancer.
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Amanda and Ryan, 14, Raise Money for Debbie’s Dream Foundation
A Family Fosters Animals & Supports Disabled Marathoners
A Family Hosts a Community Block Party
My family has always been involved in helping out others, and my son Nicholas, who is 12 years old now, has been doing it since he was 5. Our family fosters animals from shelters and helps find them homes. We especially love the senior dogs that are hard to find families for. We have fostered more than 32 dogs and cats over the last seven years. Nicholas has always been very involved in taking care of the animals. We work with Best Friends Organization. Nicholas also loves to volunteer at the New York City Marathon; we help Achilles International, which works with runners with disabilities. It is always exciting to be involved with Achilles on marathon day, helping the runners get water, blankets, food, or just congratulating them on their success!
My entire family, including my husband, Carlos, and two daughters, Roxanne and Leila, host a community block party every summer. We both fundraise and self-fund to have amazing events for families and children in the inner city. It is a lot of work, but we do it because some families don’t have money to do fun summertime activities with their children. We have partnered with our local precinct to build bridges between the community and police officers, as well as had Community Based Organizations provide internships and jobs for teens and honor older residents.
Cameron, 5, Participates in Keeping It Green My son Cameron and I participated in the Keeping It Green initiative for the Central Park Conservancy. He, along with a few of his classmates (along with us parents), raked up a bunch of leaves. I believe we bagged more than 30 bags of leaves. During our community service, people were walking by and thanking us for keeping our park clean.
Salima, 6, Helps Families in Cote d’Ivoire Salima and I went to two villages in Cote d’Ivoire this year and donated school and medical supplies to the women and children of these villages. These donations were made by our family and friends. Salima also donated some of her toys to the children. Salima, her 15-year-old cousin, and I are preparing a fashion show in January to raise funds to buy more school and medical supplies to return next year.
Aden, 7, Brings Joy to Seniors Aden loves volunteering at our local senior center on the second Saturday of every month. During the 2½-hour sessions, Aden brings smiles, hugs, sugar-free juice and cookies, and bingo winnings (he calls out the winning numbers and hands out quarters) to our extended “family.” This experience has taught him that everyone deserves to have fun and smile and that anyone can be the source of someone else’s joy.
Felicity Feeds Hungry New Yorkers My 6-year-old daughter, Felicity, cares deeply about hunger. She brings extra snacks wherever we go so she can give them to anyone she sees who needs food. We also serve at our church’s soup kitchen and she loves to hand out food and toiletries to the guests. She wants to plant fruit trees and vegetable gardens around the city so that hungry people can have fresh, free food all the time.
A Family Teaches Compassion and Kindness Our family does a lot for our community. First of all, we are vegan because animals are friends, not food. Last fall, we planted tulip bulbs in our local park. This fall we went to a rally to protest oppression and to try to make a better future. Teaching compassion and kindness are our top priorities in parenting.
A Preschool Bake Sale for the Homeless Our preschool friends decided to host a bake sale as their service project to help homeless children in the community. They truly enjoyed baking all the goodies and creating invitations, which they handed out to the community. They raised more than $250 and felt a sense of pride as a result of their hard work! Good job, preschoolers!
Learn about other Caring Kids throughout the New York metro area at nymetroparents.com/caring-kids. BigAppleParent 19
Adulting 101
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How to get your children ready for the real world—while they’re still young By Laurie Sue Brockway
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emember the days when parents figured they’d be done with childrearing by the time their children reached voting age or graduated from college? Ha! These days, the timeline for becoming a full-fledged, rentpaying, independently living adult has stretched into the mid-20s and beyond for many families. Forbes recently reported that less than half of the population ages 22-26 surveyed pay their own rent (47 percent), health insurance (41 percent), or contribute to a retirement account (27 percent). Just surveying the proliferation of YouTube videos and other instructional content on the web detailing how to cook an egg, do one’s laundry, and accomplish other everyday tasks, it’s clear there’s a need out there for basic life-skills instruction. It’s fondly known as “adulting,” and UrbanDictionary.com describes it this way: “Adulting (v): to do grown-up things and hold responsibilities such as a 9-5 job, a mortgage/rent, a car payment, or anything else that makes one think of grown-ups.” It’s not the worst thing in the world to have your kids living at home longer. But it is important for them to acquire basic life skills along the way, so whether they are living with you or on their own they can cook their own dinner and wash their own clothes. Experts say how we raise our kids can make or break their ability to run their 20
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
own lives as they age out of their adorable phase and grow into adulthood. We asked experts for their best tips on how, when, and why to prepare your kids practically and emotionally to be grown-ups.
Act like an adult
Parents must be role models for grown-up behavior. “Your children are watching you even when you think they aren’t paying attention,” says developmental psychologist Martha Mendez-Baldwin, Ph.D., an assistant professor of psychology at Manhattan College in the Bronx. “They pick up a tremendous amount of information about your value system and your patterns of behavior simply by watching you.” As our children’s first teachers, we can impart skills necessary for them to function in life as productive members of society, she says. “This includes life lessons about respect, accountability, hard work, perseverance, and emotional regulation.”
Be authoritative
Parents often struggle with the balance between being loving and being the boss, but firm guidance is essential. “Authoritative parents are emotionally and physically available but are not their child’s pal or friend,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. “There are clear boundaries and rules and expectations are enforced consistently.”
Authoritative parents can listen to their children’s opinions and respect their feelings and encourage communication and family time, she adds. On the flip side, pushing kids too hard toward specific achievements can backfire.
Plant the seeds of self-esteem early
A healthy sense of self is one of the keys to healthy adulting. “Without self-esteem children will be ill prepared to navigate the world of decisions and social dilemmas that await them as they voyage through adolescence and into adulthood,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. In addition to life skills, parents should start molding their child’s self-esteem as early as possible, she advises. Begin as early as age 2, when kids begin to test the limits of their independence.
Stop helicopter parenting
It is natural to want to protect your child from negative events and emotions because you don’t want to see him hurt or experience a blow to his self-esteem. “But we live in a world of positive and negative, good and bad,” says Angela Reiter, Ph.D., who offers therapeutic services and psychological evaluations in Eastchester. “In order to know how to handle the negative and appreciate the positive in life, we have to actually experience the negative and learn from it, in order to develop a sense of self-efficacy and a positive self-schema of what we can do when faced with a similar situation or emotion the next time it comes around.”
Let them feel disappointment
Lindsey Cormack, Ph.D., of Stevens Institute of Technology, College of Arts and Letters, in Hoboken, NJ, is a parent of a 4-yearold and a professor to students ages 18-22. “With my own child, I try to let her experience letdown,” she says. “For instance when
“
a playdate is cancelled, I find that I have an urge to protect my child from sadness by offering an alternative, like a date with me.” She refrains from trying to fix it and instead helps her daughter through a lesson in knowing that sometimes things don’t work out, and sadness is OK. “I think letting children experience and understand letdown in the small forms of childhood may better prepare them for the relatively larger let downs of their college years, such as bad grades on an assignment, non-admittance to certain schools and programs, and more,” she adds.
Create environments that foster independence
Avoid “an unintentional breeding of dependence” as kids continue to grow, says parenting coach Jesse McCarthy, a former school principal and Montessori educator. “Our children are fully capable of all sorts of independent activities, when we prepare the environment for their success.” For example, when child-sized shelves with cups and a movable stool are within 5- and 6-year-olds’ reach, they don’t have to ask an adult for help just to get a drink of water from the sink. Show 8- and 9-year-olds how to do the laundry, and mom and dad are no longer needed for that process afterward. Let 11- and 12-year-olds walk to school to learn to navigate the streets and the world around them. Trust teenagers not to burn the house down and leave them alone for short periods of time. She points out that little steps toward independence at every stage prepares kids while doing everything for them stunts their development.
Encourage your child to take on chores
If kids are not given responsibilities, it will be hard for them to learn responsibility. “Assign children age-appropriate chores and continued on next page ››
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praise them when they are completed,” says Deena Blanchard, M.D., M.P.H., a board-certified pediatrician at Premier Pediatrics in Brooklyn. “Part of this process may involve parents letting children experiment and find the best way to complete the chore.” As parents, it’s challenging to let go of some of the control but it is important to let children figure out their way to do it, which may not be exactly the same as yours, she says. “If a child feels they accomplished the chore their way and on their own, they will be more likely to feel a sense of pride and responsibility for that task and continue to do it.”
Show them how to manage money
Earning, managing, and saving money is key to adulting, so give kids a sense of financial reality and ownership early, starting with a home savings bank to get them thinking about acquiring and managing income early. “Get them a bank account and stress saving for the future rather than rushing out to spend their money without giving it thought,” advises Laurie Hollman, Ph.D., a psychoanalyst specializing in infant-parent, child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy and author of Unlocking Parental Intelligence. Also, having them write checks and pay bills is a good lesson for the future.
Don’t make excuses for your children
It may be hard to watch them flounder and flail through life experiences, but accountability is a building block toward behaving like an adult. “Let children get out of their own messes, unless they are in real danger,” says parenting and relationship expert Thomas Gagliano, author of The Problem Was Me and his newest title, Don’t Put Your Crap in Your Kid’s Diaper: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Lifetime. “Don’t call into school if their excuse for not going to school is a lie. Let them call in for themselves. Let them face life on life’s terms. No bailouts. Always be there to talk to them or guide and support them, but let them be responsible for their own actions.”
Consider a more limited life menu
Providing children with too many choices can open them to life’s possibilities but can also be overwhelming. Opening all of life’s doors for them can also present a false sense of reality about what the real world is like when they get there. “Having many choices is a double edged sword,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. “While it creates many opportunities for children, it also requires decision making and problem solving. Children who do not have a healthy sense of self-esteem, children who are insecure, and children who do not have a trusted adult to talk to will have trouble making the right choices.”
Give them age-appropriate freedom
The amount of freedom given to a child must be a good fit between their age and their personality. “A 5-year-old may have freedom to choose a Halloween costume or choose between two snacks to pack in their lunch box but cannot choose their bed time,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. “Keep in mind that children develop at slightly different rates. For example, two 16-year-olds many not be able to handle the same amount of freedom.” She points out that appropriate levels of freedom will allow children to make decisions and start to gain confidence in their decision-making process while still having you around to support and guide them in areas where parental assistance is still required. “If parents control too much of a child’s life, children tend to rebel and often will make poor decisions because they have had no practice in this important life skill.”
Coach them on planning for the future
Having kids think about goals is healthy and helpful. “Let them establish a timeline even if it’s tentative and will change with new experiences,” Dr. Hollman says. “Encourage them to think about where they want to be in two years, five years, 10 years, and beyond.” Just make sure this is an exercise in creating the life they choose, not a stressful mandate for achievements.
Don’t let them adult too fast
On the flip side of kids struggling to grow up are those who try to fast track to adulthood. They also need a little help. “Children who are inherently more responsible may try to take on roles of taking care of everything for various people in their lives,” Dr. Blanchard says. “These children may feel the pressure to do “the right” thing all the time. While this is a good character trait, it can sometimes lead to children being taken advantage of by peers or having trouble saying no.” She says to especially teach tweens and adolescents that sometimes saying no is actually the right thing to do and that being responsible is not about always trying to make everyone happy.
Be patient
Give kids space to find their way on their own time. “Not every child will be able to accept independence and responsibility in the exact time frame you would like,” Dr. Blanchard says. “Some children will take longer to be able to do chores that other children in their age group can do. Try not to compare your child to their peers or scold them if they really can’t do something. Praise them when they are doing a good job and praise the process of trying as well.” Laurie Sue Brockway is a journalist and author who has written extensively on love, romance, marriage, parenting, well-being, and emotional health. Her work has appeared in hundreds of print and online publications, including Woman’s Day, Everyday Health, and The Huffington Post.
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Why Camp Is Great
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Kids share why they love summer camp. By Lisa Fogarty
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sk parents about the benefits of a children’s summer camp program and you can pretty much guarantee that those who have either attended camp themselves or whose children return to the same camp each year will wax poetic about the experience. Those of us whose knowledge of camp stems only from sentimental movies may question the value of bunking together in cabins or jumping into murky lakes on frigid mornings. But even skeptics find it difficult to ignore the allure of providing children with the kind of independence that has become increasingly rare in a world of helicopter parenting. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that research is on the side of camps. In an article for Psychology Today, Michael Ungar, Ph.D., co-director of The Resilience Research Centre, spoke to 300 camp directors and concluded that camp can help make children more resilient and strengthen their coping strategies. Another study performed at Clemson University found camp experiences push children’s boundaries in a positive way, build self-confidence, and have a lasting and measurable impact on children, thanks to skillbuilding and decision-making exercises. Clearly, more and more adults are hip to the benefits of 24
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
sleepaway and day camps. But what do kids really think about their camp experiences? At the end of the day, most parents who send their children to camp want to be sure they are investing in their futures— because learning, fostering social connections, and growing as individuals shouldn’t be put on hold simply because the academic year has wrapped up. The proof that camps are helping to expand our kids’ minds and horizons is evident in the lasting memories and lessons children take from camp and carry with them into adulthood. We spoke with kids and teens who say camp isn’t just a place— it’s a second home and an experience that doles out important life lessons they continue to use long after their camp’s closing ceremonies. In their own words, here’s what they had to say about why they feel camp is beneficial. “I attended Silver Lake Camp in New York. My favorite thing about camp was playing Color War [a competition in which teams are divided into various colors and each team competes against the others in challenges and events to earn points and rewards]. I liked
it a lot because Color War is something you can only do at camp. It made it feel special.” —Emma R., 14, Long Island “I attended Brown Ledge Camp in Colchester, VT. My camp experience was unlike any I had ever had before. With all the different activities to choose from, it’s practically impossible to be bored. The thing I enjoyed the most was meeting girls from all over the world. This past year there were campers and counselors from 18 different countries, so now I can say I have friends from almost every continent. There is a real sense of community at my camp and a huge emphasis is put on the freedom to choose. There is only a single activity that is scheduled and that is riding. My first year at camp I learned how to become more selfsufficient and I developed good leadership skills that I use every day. Every activity at camp comes with the ability to learn more and more. I gravitated toward riflery—something I never would have thought of doing back home—and I immediately took to it. I still do it now and I even compete. Camp has given me so many opportunities and I wouldn’t trade my camp experience for anything.” —Rebecca P., 17, New Jersey “I loved being with my friends all day, and I loved being outside a lot. I attended a theater camp and it inspired me to join my school’s drama club this year. At camp, we put on several small skits at the end of each week and a larger production once a month. We learned some blocking, how to project our voices without screaming, set design, set direction, and we did acting exercises like improv, breathing techniques, becoming different characters, and changing emotions.” — Sydney C., 13, Brooklyn, who attended Our Lady of Angels’ Brooklyn Sports and Theatre Camp in Bay Ridge “I went to camp for the first time this summer at Allen Park in Farmingdale, Long Island. Every day the camp counselors set up new things for us to do so we never got bored. I loved getting to put on a big dance and show at the end of the summer because we got to practice our dance and work together to make up a cheer. I liked that we made it up ourselves with only a little bit of help. Carnival day was also amazing—the park was set up so that different spots were different holidays. It was so much fun getting to make snowmen crafts in the summer!” —Kiera F., 5, Long Island, who attended the Town of Oyster Bay Summer Recreation Program
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“I go to Silver Lake Camp in New York. Everything about the experience is so much fun. But my favorite thing of all is when we have shampoo wars!” —Sabrina R., 11, Long Island “I really love summer camp because you get to meet so many new people, especially the people in your cabin. Also, you can try lots of new activities you may have never had the chance to. Last year at camp, I learned how to windsurf, play the guitar, and canoe, which were all super fun. Camp is an awesome way to find good activities and great friends! I admit, I was nervous to go to a summer camp away from home, but I had so much fun that I didn’t get homesick. On our last night at camp, all of the cabins staying for one week gathered around a campfire in the woods. We sang songs, made s’mores, and watched as the counselors played funny skits. I had so much fun there! I went to Camp Foley in Minnesota.” —Reese D., 12, Minneapolis, MN Lisa Fogarty is a freelance writer based in New York whose work has appeared in Redbook, Men’s Health, Racked, and other publications. She lives with her husband and two children.
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camp GUIDE 2017 DAY CAMPS
All My Children Daycare and Nursery School
Various locations; call for information or check us online Manhattan: 212-419-5416 Brooklyn: 347-708-7827 Queens: 347-708-7827 allmychildrendaycare.com info@allmychildrendaycare.com All My Children Daycare and Daycamp welcomes you to our eco-friendly locations throughout Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. Your child will be fed healthy meals and snacks, participate in enriching educational activities, art, and play, including water activities and trips in summer. We offer the finest care by our highly experienced and devoted staff. Our Ridge Street Lower Manhattan center offers DropZone services for hourly care. For further information, visit allmychildrendaycare.com or call 212-419-5416 to schedule a visit.
Asphalt Green
555 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-298-7900 212 North End Ave. (at Murray Street), Battery Park City 212-298-2900 asphaltgreenbpc.org Get your camper ready for a summer of fun, fitness, and friendship! Kids have plenty of space to play sports on a 5½-acre campus (UES) or full-court gymnasium (BPC), swim in a 50-meter (UES) or 25-yard pool (BPC), and participate in arts and crafts, gaga, theater, music, and gardening. Camp curriculum meets unique physical, mental, behavioral, and social milestones for each age group, and our instructors bring high energy and spirit!Watch your child grow, make new friends, learn new skills, and come home each day with a smile.
The British International School of New York 20 Waterside Plaza 212-481-2700 x204 bis-ny.org/summer-camp info@bis-ny.org Keep calm and come to Camp! Designed to keep young hands
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and minds active during those hot summer days, the BIS-NY Summer Camp offers daily swimming instruction at our on-site pool, along with a variety of activities to build friendships and explore new skills, from creative science experiments, to outdoor games, and arts and crafts—all taught by our highly qualified teachers and teaching assistants. Located at our beautiful waterside facility on East 23rd Street. For children ages 3-10. Sign up online now at bis-ny.org/summer-camp as space is limited. We look forward to welcoming you!
Camp Henry at Henry Street Settlement
301 Henry St. 212-254-3100 x262 henrystreet.org/camp info@henrystreet.org Give your child (ages 5–13) a summer of fun and learning at Camp Henry at Henry Street Settlement! We provide educational enrichment to prevent “summer learning loss,” including STEAM projects and engaging literacy lessons, plus arts and crafts, music, drama, sports, swimming, and field trips. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included. Full season is July 5-Aug. 18. Half sessions are (July 5-28 and July 31-Aug. 18). Camp hours are 8:30am5:30pm, with extended day available. Ask about financial aid, and sibling and early-bird discounts. Camp Henry is American Camping Association accredited.
Downtown Day Camp
120 Warren St. 212-766-1104 x1250 downtowndaycamps.com info@downtowndaycamps.com Celebrating 25 years of aquatics, athletics, arts, and sciences! Private Tribeca facilities include a 75-foot pool, real outdoor ball fields, arts and dance studios, and gyms. Our wide variety of activities include swim lessons, field sport instruction, P.E. class, Pier 25 Mini-Golf, Ooey Goey Science, visual arts, Lego construction, movement and dance, drumming and music, Animal Hour, karate, tennis, craft making, trips, and Crazy Hat
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Day! Two– to eight-week flexible sessions from June 29–Aug. 25. Open houses Feb. 1 and March 1. Bus service available. info@downtowndaycamps. com, 212-766-1104 x1250, downtowndaycamp.com.
ESF Summer Camps at Riverdale Country School
5250 Fieldston Road, Bronx 718-432-1013 esfcamps.com/riverdale kgongol@esfcams.com Award-winning, family-owned and -operated camp since 1982. ESF features exciting programs offering more than 60 activities, a wide variety of sports, and new adventures for boys and girls ages 3-15. We ensure that your child is continually exposed to a variety of new experiences. Our award-winning camps are filled with the perfect blend of education, sports, and fun! Our full-time team of dedicated professionals works year-round to ensure that our camp programs are fresh, creative, and exciting each summer. One- to eight-week options, visit esfcamps.com to learn more.
Garden School
33-16 79th St., Jackson Heights 718-335-6363 gardenschool.org Garden School is voted the best camp in Queens! Register soon for ages nursery to 13! Choose a summer of creative fine arts, stimulating academics, exciting sports, or intriguing technology, or try something different each week! Our on-site pool with certified lifeguards for swimming and lessons, air-conditioned gym, game room, fun weekly themes, and positive atmosphere satisfies every camper! The early childhood is in self-contained, enriched classes. We make it easy for parents with optional extended day, door-to-door transportation, and flexible three, four, or five days per week available, full- and half-days.
Gate Hill Day Camp
750 Gate Hill Road, Stony Point 845-947-3223 gatehilldaycamp.com Unconditionally welcoming since 1951. Gate Hill is a place
where you matter most. Campers receive individual attention, and parents are kept involved with personal conversations by phone and email. A first rate, 33-acre facility, a thoughtful, varied program and an infectious culture of nurturing improvement makes Gate Hill the ultimate day camp experience. Highlights include a proven learn to swim program, door-to-door “Camp on Wheels” transportation fun, and unique programs for STEAM, teens, and early childhood campers. Book a tour online today!
JCC Manhattan Summer CampsCamp Settoga
Genna Singer, director of camps 646-505-4430 jccmanhattan.org/campsettoga gsinger@jccmanhattan.org Your summer of adventure awaits at Camp Settoga! Nestled in the foothills of Harriman State Park, JCC Manhattan celebrates day camp excellence in a state-of-theart, 21-acre home. It’s everything you’ve come to expect from the JCC, with enriching and engaging programs in the arts, the Red Cross Learn to Swim Program, an adventure course, sports, and outdoor cooking! For information, please call the camp office at 646-5054430 or email Genna Singer at gsinger@jccmanhattan.org.
Jeff Lake Camp
38 Jefferson Lake Road, Stanhope, NJ 973-347-1230 jefflakecamp.com jamie@jefflakecamp.com Jeff Lake Camp (jefflakecamp. com) offers an exciting, creative summer day camp experience. With facilities normally seen only at overnight camps, Jeff Lake’s 350 acres provide endless opportunities for children to explore and learn. Our campus features a 50acre lake with water trampolines, climbing wall and slide, fishing, paddle boarding, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boating. Facilities include tennis courts, ropes courses, sports fields, art and pottery studios, and five heated pools. Lunch and snacks provided daily. Nut-aware
camp. Allergy specialist on-site every day. Open houses Feb. 12 and March 12.
Jodi’s Gym
244 E. 84th St. 212-772-7633 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 jodisgym.com Jodi’s Gym Summer Camp is a morning of nonstop, action-packed fun! Your child will run, jump, tumble, balance, stretch, sing, create, move, and groove, all under the supervision and care of our well-trained, enthusiastic, friendly, and certified staff. Come experience the joys of gymnastics, music, and art. It’s a mix your child is sure to love. Join us in our 36th year! Offered for children ages 3-5. Flexible scheduling (you choose days and weeks)!
Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan
Oasis in Central Park 718-596-4900 oasischildren.com centralpark@oasischildren.com Oasis Downtown Stacie Soto, camp director 718-596-4900
oasischildren.com downtown@oasischildren.com Oasis Camp offers programs for children ages 3 years to sixth grade! With facilities in Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, Westchester, and New Jersey, Oasis features mature staff with low camper-tostaff ratio and a warm environment in which kids can participate in activities tailored to their interests. The Early Start camp for kids ages 3 years to kindergarten offers sports, daily Red Cross swim, arts, dance, theater, and a Ready for September enrichment program. The Traditional Camp (first-sixth grades) provides campers with sports, crafts, theater, dance, and Red Cross Swim. Teen Travel has daily trips, team building, and overnights.
SLEEPAWAY CAMPS
Animal Camp Jamaica
Runaway Bay, Jamaica 573-458-2125 animalcampjamaica.com office@bearriverranch.com ACJ is designed to give teens interested in marine biology an opportunity to explore the Caribbean Sea while also exploring the
gorgeous, northern coast of Jamaica. Mornings are spent in the beautiful, blue sea learning about the area’s marine life and afternoons are filled with adventure! Each session campers will climb Dunn’s River Falls, tube the Rio Bueno River, and sight-see through Fern Gully. The group stays at a private villa in Runaway Bay. The campers are looked after by our responsible, caring counselors who are lifeguards and CPR trained.
Cub Creek Science Camp
16795 State Route E., Rolla, MO 573-458-2125 mosciencecamp.com office@bearriverranch.com More than 300 animals make up camp’s interactive zoo and include lemurs, alpacas, parrots, foxes, lizards, snakes, and wallabies among many more. Outside of our animal family, camp has a six-element ropes course that includes zip-lining and climbing; craft and pottery studios; archery and riflery ranges; and trails for hiking and botany studies. Cub Creek strives to allow campers to be themselves, make lasting friendships, and create bonds with animals in
a safe, loving environment. Our facilities are air-conditioned and all meals are served buffet style with alternative meal options.
SPECIALTY CAMPS
Abrons Arts Camp at Henry Street Settlement
466 Grand St. 212-598-0400 abronsartscenter.org info@henrystreet.org Ignite your 5- to 13-year-old’s creative spark with daily instruction in dance, music, theater, and visual arts, all facilitated by professional or teaching artists. Camp features weekly trips to museums, galleries, theaters, and water parks, and daily outdoor recreation. Each session has a student-authored performance and exhibition, and open art studios for families on Fridays. Camp runs from July 5–Aug. 18 (with half sessions available) from 9am-5pm, with 8:30am drop off and extended day until 6:30pm available. Ask about our generous financial aid, and early bird and sibling discounts. continued on next page ››
CAMP MARKETPLACE
MINI CAMP AGE 3
DAY CAMP
AGES 4–8
SUPERCHARGE YOUR SUMMER Day, sports, and specialty camps for boys and girls, AGES 3–15
JUNE 19 – AUGUST 11 AT RIVERDALE COUNTRY SCHOOL BRONX, NY esfcamps.com/Riverdale 718.432.1013
SPORTS CAMP AGES 6–14
SENIOR CAMP AGES 9–15
SPECIALTY MAJOR CAMPS GRADES K–9
TECH CAMPS GRADES 1–9
JUNIOR BUSINESS ACADEMY GRADES 5–8
TENNIS CAMP AGES 6–15
EXTEND YOUR DAY AGES 4–15
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Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens
Pearl Studios, 500 Eighth Ave., 4th Floor 917-763-1777 actorstechniqueny.com Actors Technique, NY specializes in kids and teen on-camera act and audition technique for television, film, and commercials. Top success stories include Dice, Nickelodeon’s Sam & Cat, and many others. ATNY works with New York City’s top agents, managers, and casting directors daily. Classes on Saturdays or Sundays, with showcases. Ages 4–19. Improvisation, On-Camera Technique, Meisner Technique, Audition Technique, Vocals, and Musical Theatre are available. All year-round, including summer day camps. Core acting classes separated by age and skill level. actorstechniqueny. com or call 917-763-1777. Audits are available.
Animal Camp Jamaica
Runaway Bay, Jamaica 573-458-2125 animalcampjamaica.com office@bearriverranch.com ACJ is designed to give teens interested in marine biology an opportunity to explore the Caribbean Sea while also exploring the gorgeous, northern coast of Jamaica. Mornings are spent in the beautiful, blue sea learning about the area’s marine life and afternoons are filled with adventure! Each session campers will climb Dunn’s River Falls, tube the Rio Bueno River, and sight-see through Fern Gully. The group stays at a private villa in Runaway Bay. The campers are looked after by our responsible, caring counselors who are lifeguards and CPR trained.
Atlantic Acting School
76 Ninth Ave., Suite 537 212-691-5919 atlanticactingschool.org teaster@atlantictheater.org Students spend their summer days forming a theater ensemble and rehearse a performance project to be performed for family and friends. Younger students weave theater, music, and theater-related arts and crafts together as they learn about different styles of performance. Young Creators rehearse an adapted musical and perform it in two weeks. Young Actors
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explore technique, scenes, and monologues, and create their own performance projects. Teens delve into a four-week pre-college intensive that prepares them for the exciting rigors of theater conservatory training, and life. atlanticactingschool.org.
Ballet Academy East
1651 Third Ave. 212-410-9140 balletacademyeast.com Summerdance, for girls ages 4-9, is designed to immerse children in creative activities centering on the arts. Students receive excellent ballet training and explore the wider world of dance with tap, jazz, modern, and musical theater classes. Arts and crafts, swimming, cooking, gymnastics, drama, yoga, and origami are all a part of the exciting Summerdance curriculum. Summerdance culminates with two special in-studio performances. BAE also offers summer ballet classes, for ages 18 months and older. All ballet classes are accompanied by live pianist.
Book Nook
167 W. 81st St. (at Amsterdam Avenue) 212-873-BOOK (2665) booknooknyc.com Enchanted Summer Stories at Book Nook Upper West Side! Now in Tribeca too! We can’t wait to go on another magical adventure with the second installment of Enchanted Summer Stories at Book Nook! Our program will once again explore the many genres that make up literature by implementing books, art, music, and academics over the course of the six-week program. Each genre will include a lesson that enhances the scope of the story’s message, theme, and overall importance in a child’s development and understanding of storytelling. Runs July 11Aug. 17 (Wednesday-Thursday). Ages 30 months to 5 years.
Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens
37 W. 65th St. 322 W. 45th St. 212-582-9304 broadwaydancecenter.com Our one-week dance camps are the perfect way for girls and boys to learn about dance, make new friends, and create lasting memories. Designed for movers
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
of all levels, our camps give students the opportunity to try a wide variety of styles, including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theater. We strive to provide exceptional dance training in a welcoming, supportive atmosphere—promoting a strong work ethic, teamwork, and fun!
Camp Clio
Held at Camp Claire, Lyme, CT 212-472-5207 campclio.org Camp Clio and our new Camp Clio Teen offer a unique experience for adopted children (ages 9-12) and teens (ages 13-17). Camp Clio campers and counselors (themselves adopted and serving as role models) share the intimacy and safety of being with other adopted friends, providing the opportunity to share feelings and adoption stories with others who understand adoption without explanation because they are “just like me”—all in a fun camp environment. Camp Clio Teen: June 25–July 7. Camp Clio youth: July 2-22. Campers may come for one or more sessions. Scholarships available.
Camp SAY SAY: The Stuttering Association for the Young
828-393-4244 say.org info@say.org Camp SAY combines the highest quality traditional summer camp experience, with comprehensive activities and innovative programs that empower young people who stutter (ages 8-18). Our two-week sleepaway camp provides a highly immersive summer camp experience that builds self-confidence and helps young people develop the vital communication skills they need to fully express themselves. That’s why parents and campers call Camp SAY “life-changing.” Camp SAY is located at a 500acre, ACA-accredited facility in North Carolina. Outstanding staff-to-camper ratio. Financial aid available. Visit campsay.org.
Center For Architecture
536 LaGuardia Place 212-358-6133 cfafoundation.org info@cfafoundation.org Open your children’s eyes to the world of architecture and design at the Center for Architecture’s
summer camps, running June 19-Aug. 25. These weeklong design studios give children in third through 12th grades a chance to develop their own architectural designs and models. Each week focuses on a different topic and combines hands-on art and building projects with oneof-a-kind trips. Activities include drawing, 3-D model-making, interior design, computer graphics, engineering, green design, and an intensive two-week Architectural Design Studio for high school students. Need-based scholarships available; apply by April 15. More information at cfafoundation.org/summer.
Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex - Camps
West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com Chelsea Piers features 15 specialty camps for children and teens ages 3-17. For the past 21 summers, campers have enjoyed world-class facilities, expert instruction, and NYC’s most exciting sports curriculum. Camps include Sports Academy, Elite Soccer, Basketball, Gymnastics, Golf, Hockey, Ice-Skating, and Urban Adventure (rock-climbing, sailing, and more). Lunch is provided. For preschoolers, there are half-day gymnastics and ice-skating programs, as well as junior camps that end at 2pm for children ages 4-5. Transportation is available for our full-day campers from major residential neighborhoods in Manhattan and Brooklyn. An after care program is offered from 4:30–6pm. Camps run June 19-Sept. 1.
Children’s Museum of the Arts
103 Charlton St. 212-274-0986 cmany.org Children’s Museum of the Arts Spring and Summer Art Colony Day Camps allow young artists, ages 6-15, to immerse themselves in full-day, innovative arts courses taught by professional teaching artists. Summer Art Colony camps run weekly from June 19-Sept. 1 from 9am-5pm. Young artists have a choice of more than 50 classes at two exciting locations, at the museum at 103 Charlton St. and on historic Governors Island. Each week offers a new and unique theme focused on either fine arts or media projects.
Collina Italiana
1556 Third Ave. (at 87th Street), Suite 603 212-427-7770 collinaitaliana.com info@collinaitaliana.com Collina Italiana is pleased to announce its Italian Summer in the City 2017 on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The program is designed for kids ages 3-6 (and parents) who want to absorb the warm and lively culture of Italy. Have fun Italian style: learn and practice Italian, meet new friends, and enjoy a unique summer in the city. Summer Mini Camp session No. 1 from June 13–July 13, Summer Mini Camp session No. 2 from Aug. 15–31.
ConstructionKids
The British International School of New York, 20 Waterside Plaza Corlears School, 324 W. 15th St. Avenues: The World School, 259 Tenth Ave. Bard Graduate Center, 38 W. 86th St. Dwight School, 291 Central Park West Brooklyn Navy Yard BLDG92, 63 Flushing Ave., Brooklyn The Co-Op School, 40 Brevoort Place, Brooklyn constructionkids.com info@constructionkids.com ConstructionKids Camps are known for the dynamic projects campers build. We teach safe, appropriate tool usage, along with creative play. Camp for ages 4-6: We encourage the imagination and problem-solving skills of our campers by showing them they can learn to make anything they want with the help of some wood, a hammer, and nails. Advanced Camp for ages 7-9: designed for first time and experienced campers who are looking to challenge their engineering, problem solving, and critical reasoning abilities with complex multi-day projects.
Cub Creek Science Camp
16795 State Route E, Rolla, MO 573-458-2125 mosciencecamp.com office@bearriverranch.com More than 300 animals make up camp’s interactive zoo and include lemurs, alpacas, parrots, foxes, lizards, snakes, and wallabies among many more. Outside of our animal family, camp has a six-element ropes course that includes zip-lining and climbing; craft and pottery studios; archery and riflery ranges; and trails for hiking and botany studies. Cub Creek strives to allow
campers to be themselves, make lasting friendships, and create bonds with animals in a safe, loving environment. Our facilities are air-conditioned and all meals are served buffet style with alternative meal options.
EBL Coaching
Dr. Emily Levy, director 17 E. 89th St., Suite 1D 212-249-0147 eblcoaching.com/one-on-onetutoring-new-york-city/ EBL Coaching specializes in threeweek academic skills building camps and one-on-one tutoring for students in pre-K to 12th grades. They use research-based, multi-sensory techniques to help students develop their reading, writing, math, executive functioning, and organizational skills. All students are initially evaluated and then hand-matched with one of EBL’s learning specialists who provides tutoring either at the student’s home or at EBL’s Upper East Side learning center. EBL also offers three-week academic camps held in June-August. Specialized instruction for students with learning disabilities and ADHD, including the Orton Gillingham methodology, is also available.
École Internationale de New York EINY Summer Camp
Anthony Bernier and Caroline Bottasso, camp directors 206 Fifth Ave., Flatiron District 646-766-1843 einy.org anthony@einy.org EINY’s Summer Camp offers a fun and enriching bilingual experience in French and English through a wide range of activities including art, music, games, sports, and cultural excursions as students are immersed in both French and English. Designed and tailored for different age groups ranging from ages 3-10, of all language backgrounds, from 9am-3:30pm, with an option of extended day from 8:30am-5pm. Located in the Flatiron neighborhood.
MARINE BIOLOGY CAMP Evolution Enrichment Preschool
38 Delancey St., 2nd Floor (enter from Forsyth Street) 212-375-9500 evolutionenrichment.com evolutionenrichment@gmail.com Summer camp (ages 4-5) for intellectual learners. A play-based STE(A)M experience building G&T fundamentals. Camp-
ers will be invited to explore, question, and think outside of the box. Camps offered: Biology (July 3-14): virtual trips to the Amazon, Sahara and Antarctica. Speech, Drama and Art (July1721): Children learn how to communicate their unique ideas. Technology (July 24-August 4): discovery of how things work. Earth Science (Aug. 7-18): imaginary journeys inside the Earth. Natural Science (Aug.21Sept. 1): Students participate in scientific experiments and learn about magnetism, molecules, and buoyancy. Register or schedule a tour: evolutionenrichment. com/contact or 212-375-9500.
Future Stars Summer Camps Purchase College
Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 914-273-8500 fscamps.com Weekly day sessions for ages 4-16, June 19-Aug. 25 at state-ofthe-art facilities in the heart of Westchester. Our staff and limited enrollment allow each camper the opportunity to maximize their skill development. Campers can choose and combine weeks
from 19 individualized specialty programs: Tennis, Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, Lacrosse, Football, Multi-Sports, Field Hockey, Cheerleading, Volleyball, Circus Arts, Magic, Softball, Diving, Horseback Riding, Swim, Academic, STEAM Education, and Rising Stars (our youngest campers). Supervised swimming is included, as is instructional swim for Rising Stars. Lunch option and door-to-door transportation from most of Westchester available.
Galli Theater New York
151 W. 26th St., 7th Floor 212-731-0668 gallitheaterny.com galliny@gmail.com Galli Theater camps are just the right place to act out different roles from classic fairytales! Each camp focuses on a specific fairytale and the children choose their roles, rehearse, and present the piece at the end of the session for family and friends. Costumes, sets, and music are provided to complete the transformation. Mid-Winter Acting Camp: Feb. 20-24, 9am-1pm. Spring Break continued on next page ››
CAMP MARKETPLACE
MARINE BIOLOGY CAMP
201 7 Dates Session 1: 6/18 - 6/30 Session 2: 7/2 - 7/14 Session 3: 7/16 - 7/28
A Marine Biology and Adventure Camp for teens 14-18!
AnimalCampJamaica.com 573-458-2125 Request a FREE brochure! BigAppleParent 29
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Acting Camp: April 10-14, 9am1pm. We offer camps in English, German, and French. To register please email us at galliny@gmail. com, call us at 212-731-0668, or visit us at gallitheaternyc.com.
Huddle Up NYC
305-282-5192 huddleupnyc.com coachrob@huddleupnyc.com Huddle Up NYC is a company dedicated to building football athletes through football training and personal coaching sessions. Huddle Up NYC’s personal coaching sessions will aim to strengthen and build the confidence, skill set, and physical ability of football athletes ranging from youth sports age up through high school. Huddle Up NYC is excited and ready to help you get your game to the next level! Customized and convenient Football Personal Training Sessions available now! Whether it’s footwork, speed and agility, or skills specific to your position, Huddle Up NYC has everything to help you become game day ready!
International Ivy
Office mailing address: 61 Maple St., #636, Summit, NJ 908-899-1338 iisummer.com lily@ivyprograms.com International Ivy is now in NYC! International Ivy provides fun and stimulating experiences to fuel kids’ creativity and curiosity. At International Ivy, kids design video games, build robots, tinker with engineering, conduct experiments, and make films. There are more than 50 classes to choose from in STEAM–Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. International Ivy serves kids ages 7-15. All classes are weekly, Monday to Friday, so kids can enroll for one week or multiple weeks, full-day (9am-5pm) or half-day (9am12:30pm or 1:30-5pm).
Kumon of Manhattan
2235 Frederick Douglass Blvd., Central Harlem 212-866-6201 700 Columbus Ave., Upper West Side 212-866-1864 320 W. 23rd St., Chelsea 212-242-6528 381 Second Ave., Gramercy Park 212-683-1232 2 S. End Ave., Battery Park City
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212-786-4295 747 Tenth Ave., Midtown West 212-399-4124 954 First Ave., Midtown East 212-702-8769 123 Baxter St., Chinatown 212-625-1883 237 E. 204th St., Bedford Park, Bronx 917-751-1888 kumon.com As the world’s largest after-school math and reading program, Kumon’s proven individualized method accelerates your child’s learning—beginning at age 3 through high school. We go beyond tutoring, by developing a customized curriculum for your child that nurtures critical thinking and independent learning skills. Kumon’s time-tested self-learning program uses engaging worksheets and guidance from an instructor to present new concepts and materials, giving children an academic advantage in the classroom—and throughout life. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration, and develop better study skills.
Launch Math & Science Centers
173 W. 81st St., lower level 212-600-1010 launchmath.com info@launchmath.com Launch Math & Science Centers offer exciting and educational one-week STEM summer camps for kids from pre-K to eighth grade (ages 4-13). Launch day camp sessions are packed with hands-on STEM projects, with multiple camps offered each week for three different age groups. Campers code animations, explore rocket science, create chemical reactions, program autonomous robots— and that’s just the beginning! Campers get to keep their projects so the fun can continue at home. Summer 2017, Launch has five different Manhattan camp locations: Tribeca, Upper East Side at 74th street, Upper West Side at 68th street, Upper West Side at 81st street, and Upper West Side at 100th street. Register today!
The Little Gym
2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side 212-799-1225
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues), Upper East Side 212-787-1124 tlguppereastsideny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444 tlgwaldwicknj.com 777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072 tlgscarsdaleny.com Since 1977, The Little Gym has been promoting the healthy and successful physical and mental development of children. Its “Anytime Summertime Kids Fun” includes parent and child classes (ages 4 months to 3 years), preschool and kindergarten classes (ages 3-6 years), and grade school gymnastics (non-competitive only!) for beginner, intermediate, or advanced gymnasts. The Little Gym also offers its world-renowned “Anytime Summertime Kids Fun” camp for children ages 3-9 years, with flexible scheduling to work around your summer plans. Its unique theme-based curriculum takes children on weekly adventures. Half-day and full-day sessions available.
The Quad Manhattan
25 Pine St., 4th Floor 585-298-7306 thequadmanhattan.com ashley@thequadmanhattan.com The Quad Manhattan is an inclusive meeting place for Twice Exceptional kids—a place where social and executive functioning “life” skills are met with fun! Quad students learn to develop self-acceptance—quirks and all—focus intellectual and physical energy and gifts, cope with challenges, flexibly solve problems, adapt to changing conditions, face fears and learn from frustration, collaborate with others and build friendship, and become empathic neighbors and socially responsible citizens. This six-week program provides ongoing support, built by experts in psychology, special education, and gifted professionals.
SPORTIME Summer Camps Tennis and Sports, ages 4-17
212-427-6150 sportimecamps.com/nyc campsnyc@sportimeny.com John McEnroe Tennis Academy’s Summer Training Camp and SPORTIME’s 10 & Under Tennis Camp are designed for players
who want to focus on playing and learning tennis, and becoming complete players. Every camp day includes tennis, field sports and cross training, tennis specific athletic training, and new for 2017–NYCFC Soccer Camps. Campers learn and perfect proper tennis technique, participate in competitive drills, tactical games, and match play. Daily and weekly rates available. Call and ask about our Spring Break and Pre-Summer Training Camps at 212-4276150 or email Greg Evans at campsnyc@sportimeny.com!
Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts
185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.com Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts, the nation’s pre-eminent arts day camp offers more than 70 programs of study in the arts—visual art, dance, music, theater, writing—and arts-related fields—nature, chess, and recreational arts. Each summer, more than 1,500 students ages 4-18 are immersed in art and nature and surrounded by friends who share their interests and enthusiasm. Transportation is provided in air-conditioned buses departing from throughout the New York metro and Long Island areas. Two-, four-, and seven-week sessions are offered from June 26-Aug. 11.
York Theatre Company Musical Theatre Training Program Summer Intensive
619 Lexington Ave. (corner of 54th Street) 212-935-5824 x214 yorktheatre.org rklink@yorktheatre.org Whether or not you dream of performing on Broadway one day, the nurturing yet rigorous musical theater training at the York will strengthen your theater skills, ignite creativity, encourage collaboration, and boost self-esteem—all tools you can take with you. The York’s Musical Training Program draws from its vast network of connections to NYC’s most successful theatre artists as teachers and guest artists, offering the unique opportunity of classes taking place in an off-Broadway theater near the heart of NYC’s theater district. For middle and high school students.
CAMP MARKETPLACE
Downtown & at P.S. 110
Central Park
Summer 2017!
at P.S. 84
Early Start Imagination Camp • Specialized programming for Pre-K campers ages 3-5 • 8:30am - 5:30pm with extended hours available • Beautiful outdoor facilities • Ample air-conditioned indoor space • Sports, games & outdoor adventure • Visual arts, crafts & performing arts • Special events, theme days, carnivals & all traditional camp activities • Red Cross Swim Instruction. • Healthy hot lunch & transportation available (A/C) • Low ratios with mature staff • Flexible enrollment **Traditional Day Camp (ages 6-11), Teen Travel (ages 12-14) & CIT/LIT Program (ages 14-16) also available** Info Sessions at P.S. 110 (285 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002) Feb. 8, 2017 at 6:30 pm Info Sessions at P.S. 84 (32 W 92nd St, New York, NY 10025) Feb. 15, 2017 at 6:30 pm
Visit us online for 2017 info session dates & locations!
www.oasischildren.com • 718-596-4900
@oasisdaycamps
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OUTINGS: Rye Nature Center
nymetroparents.com/outings
An Immersive Nature Experience in Rye 3
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Courtesy Rye Nature Center
Explore and learn about the wilderness year-round at Rye Nature Center, New York’s environmental conservation organization. ›› By Melissa A. Kay
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1 As the temperature dips, Nanderwhere Pond is still as serene as ever. 2 Fresh greenery and lush landscaping make the garden a sight to see. 3 The observation hive allows visitors to see honeybees hard at work. 4 Rye Nature Center is set on 47 acres of forest and trails so families can walk in the wilderness and take in the natural surroundings. 5 Ecology students enjoy winter activities.
R
ye Nature Center protects natural resources and promotes environmental education and stewardship within its urban forest, wildlife sanctuary, and surrounding community. The independent, nonprofit organization offers exciting programs for kids and adults of all ages and abilities.
Year-Round Fun
There’s so much to explore at Rye Nature Center. See honeybees in action by viewing the traditional and observational hives. Nature’s Playground features natural elements, such as tree stumps. And there’s also a new Con Edison STEM Challenge Course. Nanderwhere Pond, one of the center’s favorite teaching sites, is full of natural beauty year-round. Families can take a hike along the surrounding trail, or any of the 47 acres of forest trails. Explorers of all ages can go hunting for rocks and minerals at the Old Quarry. Weekly ecology classes allow elementary school kids to get outdoors and learn. There 32
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
are also mommy/daddy-and-me classes, along with public programs and festivals.
Annual Events
Rye Nature Center’s summer day camp for preschool through 10th-grade students offers a hands-on approach to science and the environment. Oktoberfest is an annual fundraiser with delicious food and fun activities. Wilderness Encounters, an immersive outside program, challenges elementary school students to work together to explore the woodlands in the winter, spring, and fall. The Forest Kindergarten program, also in the winter, spring, and fall, uses Swiss concepts and principles to encourage children to connect to the natural world. Rye Nature Center offers a Preschool Ecology extended-day program, and its Forest Preschool program will be held five days a week, beginning in September 2017. Fifty percent of class time will be outside.
February Highlights
The annual Old-Fashioned Winter’s
Afternoon with a log-sawing contest, nature crafts, hiking, pony rides, candy making, archery, and more will be held Feb. 4. Rye nature center also has vacation camps for preschool through elementary school kids with programs throughout the month in which kids can learn about winter animals, glaciers, forest ecology, and more. On Feb. 11 and Feb. 25 see a tree being tapped, learn about the production of sap, and visit the Maple Sugar Shed to get a sneak peek at the maple sugaring process.
Details
Address: Rye Nature Center, 873 Boston Post Road, Rye Directions: Approximately an hour train ride from Grand Central; take the MetroNorth New Haven Line to Rye Hours: Visitor Center, Museum, and Office: Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Grounds, trails, and playgrounds: daily, dawn to dusk Admission: Free (membership required for special programs) For more information: ryenaturecenter.org, info@ryenaturecenter.org, or 914-967-5150
CAMP MARKETPLACE
We Believe in a
Summer! Day camp for boys and girls ages 4-12 | Enter code BAP17 to receive a 10% discount Attend our open house: Saturday, April 22, 11 am-2 pm dwightsummercamp.org | 2116 First Avenue, New York City | 917.551.6424
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www.mommybites.com Please note that Mommybites does not recommend, endorse, pre-screen, interview, or approve any of the babysitters, care providers, listings for babysitters or care providers, and information related thereto, which appear on the website, and make no warranties and/or representations as to the quality, safety, truth, or accuracy of the listings and information which appear on this website. The Mommybites website is meant only as an information source. Mommybites is not involved in any transactions related to the hiring of babysitters or care providers. It is highly recommended that you thoroughly interview and screen all babysitters or care providers.
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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Ideas When You Need Them:
Sign up for our FREE newsletter & never hear “I’m bored!” again. We email the top kids’ events every Thursday—just in time to make weekend plans!
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Turn the page for details on ‘Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend’ (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
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nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar
EDITOR: EMMA STEVEN nyccalendar@davlermedia.com
FEBRUARY CALENDAR
36 Editor’s Hot Tickets
41 Dance Party
38 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Crafty Kids
42 Movers & Shakers, Holiday Fun
39 Show Time!, Smarty Pants
44 Mini Musicians, Special Needs
40 Once Upon a Time, Fun Fairs & Festivals, On Screen
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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!
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18th Annual Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade & Festival FREE
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 12-4:30pm; parade at 1pm WHERE: Chinatown, Parade begins on the corner of Canal and Mott streets, Chinatown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Come and celebrate the beginning of the year of the Rooster with this famous New York parade and street festival. Every year thousands take to the streets of Chinatown and Little Italy to watch traditional Chinese New Year performances, marvel at decorations and costumes, and enjoy great food. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will love the lion dancers and confetti! WANT TO GO? 917-660-2402. betterchinatown.com.
Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live
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WHEN: Feb. 4-5, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 3pm WHERE: NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, 566 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 3 and older WHAT: This fun and educational show has come all the way from Australia, 65 million years ago! Learn about dinosaurs and see them come to life on stage thanks to amazingly life-like puppets. WHY WE LOVE IT: A treat for little dinosaur fans. WANT TO GO? $29 and up. 646-495-9721. skirballcenter.nyu.edu.
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Thalia Kids’ Book Club: An Afternoon with Hervé Tullet WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 1pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 5-12
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHAT: An interactive afternoon of art and storytelling with the wildly imaginative author and illustrator behind the bestsellers Press Here and Let’s Play. WHY WE LOVE IT: A chance to meet a famous author and be inspired to make your own creative art work. WANT TO GO? $16. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.
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Central Park Conservancy Ice Festival 2017 FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 3-7pm WHERE: Naumburg Bandshell, Central Park, mid-park from 66th to 72nd streets, Central Park AGES: All WHAT: See master ice-carving artists from Okamoto Studio use electric chain saws, chisels, and picks to transform more than 6,000 pounds of ice into a glistening replica of one of the Park’s most beloved statues. WHY WE LOVE IT: Unique event that also features a silent disco at dusk. WANT TO GO? 212-310-6675. centralparknyc.org.
Lunar New Year Family Festival
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WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 11am-4pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: Special event to celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Rooster. Families will enjoy Chinese and Chinese American traditions, folk arts, artist demonstrations, storytelling, and more. WHY WE LOVE IT: Celebrate the Lunar New Year inside in the heart of Chinatown. WANT TO GO? $12. 855-955-6622. mocanyc.org.
CAMP MARKETPLACE
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David Weinstone & the Music for Aardvarks Band
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 11:30am WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: A chance to see the band that started the NYC kids phenomenon that is Music For Aardvarks. WHY WE LOVE IT: One of our favorites! WANT TO GO? $16. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.
The Westminster Kennel Club Presents Westminster Week
MORE COUNTRY, MORE CONFIDENCE THERE'S A WORLD OUTSIDE NYC. REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER 2017.
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WHEN: Feb. 11-14, Saturday-Tuesday, see website for event times WHERE: Pier 92/94 and Madison Square Garden, 711 Twelfth Ave., Hell’s Kitchen AGES: 5 and older WHAT: High profile, annual event organized by The Westminster Kennel Club and featuring three big competitions: an agility championship and meet the breeds, obedience championship, and dog show. WHY WE LOVE IT: A must-do for dog and cat lovers. WANT TO GO? $10 and up. 212-213-3165. westminsterkennelclub.org.
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Kids Week 2017
WHEN: Feb. 20-25, Monday-Saturday, see website for times WHERE: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Annual program of discovery during the mid-winter school recess. This year’s theme is gaming and kids will have the chance to play cutting-edge digital games, design their own games, and explore interactive displays. WHY WE LOVE IT: Spend the break learning as well as having fun. WANT TO GO? $24; $20 seniors and college students; $19 children ages 7-17; $17 veterans; $12 children ages 3-6; free for children younger than 3. 212-245-0072. intrepidmuseum.org.
‘Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend’
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WHEN: Feb. 16-26, Thursday-Monday, see website for times WHERE: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: See Elmo, Grover, and Cookie Monster live onstage as they welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street. This musical production will be a big hit with the preschool set. WHY WE LOVE IT: Celebrate cultural similarities, from singing and dancing, to sharing cookies! WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 866-858-0008. theateratmsg.com.
New York International Children’s Film Festival 2017
WHEN: Feb. 24-March 19, see website for show times WHERE: IFC Center and other theaters, see website for locations AGES: All WHAT: Every year, New York International Children’s Film Festival presents hundreds of the best new films from around the world for kids and teens. WHY WE LOVE IT: A full film festival experience for kids including premieres, Q-and-A sessions, and filmmaking workshops. WANT TO GO? $9 and up. 212-349-0330. nyicff.org. ››
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CAMPSETTOGA.ORG | 646.505.4430 A PROUD PARTNER OF UJA-FEDERATION OF NEW YORK
BigAppleParent 37
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.
Groundhog Day FREE
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 2, 7am WHERE: Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: With a spring prediction success rate higher than 80 percent, Chuck will once again emerge from underground to make his annual prediction. The Patrick Raftery Rock-a-Silly Band will perform at the ceremony. WANT TO GO? 718-442-3101. statenislandzoo.org.
Artists in the Atrium: The Okee Dokee Brothers FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Lincoln Center, David Rubenstein Atrium, Broadway between 62nd and 63rd streets, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: The Grammy award-winning duo brings its signature blend of American folk music, witty lyrics, and stories of thrilling outdoor adventures to the Upper West Side. With great tunes such as “Can You Canoe?” and “Through the Woods,” the duo will inspire you to head outside. WANT TO GO? 212-875-5456. lincolncenter.org/atrium.
Astronomy FREE
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 7pm WHERE: The Great Lawn, 85th Street, Central Park AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Urban Park Rangers will be your guides to the solar system, discussing the science, history, and folklore of the universe. Astronomy programs feature the use of telescopes and binoculars to observe the night sky. WANT TO GO? 212-628-2345. nycgovparks.org.
Losar Family Day FREE
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 19, 12-4pm WHERE: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: A museum-wide afternoon of art, crafts, and music to celebrate the Himalayan New Year. Learn about traditional celebrations, go on a family tour of the galleries, listen to traditional music, and participate in special arts and crafts activities. WANT TO GO? 212-620-5000. rubinmuseum.org.
Kids Week FREE
WHEN: Feb. 20-24, Monday-Friday, 2pm WHERE: Dana Discovery Center, Central Park, Harlem; Payson Center, Inwood Hill Park, Inwood AGES: All WHAT: A series of workshops throughout the school vacation in Central and Inwood parks. Learn about reptiles, trees, birds, and animal tracking, led by Urban Park Rangers. WANT TO GO? 212-628-2345. nycgovparks.org. 38
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
CRAFTY KIDS
Rainbow Squeegee Abstracts
WHEN: Feb. 9-10, Thursday-Friday, 12-6pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn how rainbows are made and experiment with paint to create rainbow squeegee abstract art. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.
Irresistible Illuminations
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 11am-1pm WHERE: The Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave., Murray Hill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about medieval and Renaissance illuminated manuscripts and then learn the basics to create your own ornate initial. WANT TO GO? $20. 212-685-0008. themorgan.org.
Family Tour at Met Breuer
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 11am-12pm and 2-3pm WHERE: The Met Breuer, 945 Madison Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Share ideas and enjoy stories, sketching, and other activities that bring art to life. Explore Marisa Merz: The Sky Is a Great Space. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors, $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-570-3961. metmuseum.org.
Embroidered Hearts
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 13, 12pm-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: In celebration of Valentine’s Day, young artists will use sequins and yarn to embroider hearts for their loved ones. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.
MOCACREATE: What’s Cooking?
WHEN: Feb. 4-18, Saturdays, 1-4pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: Design a menu for your own themed restaurant. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children. 855-955-6622. mocanyc.org.
Family Sundays at the Rubin Museum: Fire Masks and Lanterns FREE WHEN: Feb. 5-26, Sundays, 1-4pm WHERE: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., Chelsea AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Kick off the Year of the Fire Bird with Losar and Lunar New Yearinspired activities. Adorn yourself with a bird mask or make a lantern. WANT TO GO? 212-620-5000. rubinmuseum.org.
Whitney Wees: Make Your Mark!
WHEN: Feb. 4-March 11, Saturdays, 10am WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Look at artworks and make your own. WANT TO GO? $5 with admission: $22; $17 seniors; free for children. 212-570-3600. whitney.org.
SHOW TIME!
SMARTY PANTS
‘Elephant and Piggie’ with Mo Willems Appearence
Discovery Room: Meet the Scientist
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 3pm and 7pm WHERE: New Victory Theatre, 229 W. 42nd St., Theater District AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Willems is scheduled to participate in a post-show talk back after the 3pm performance and an autograph signing after the 7pm performance. WANT TO GO? $25. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.
Thunderbird American Indian Dancers Annual Dance Concert and Pow-Wow
WHEN: Through Feb. 5: Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 3pm and 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., East Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This event brings together the dances from 17 tribes throughout the U.S. All proceeds go to the Native American Scholarship Fund. WANT TO GO? $10; $1 children. 212-254-1109. theaterforthenewcity.net.
Snowkus Pocus: ‘Enchant the Spring’
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 2:15pm, 3pm, and 3:45pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: An AMNH scientist talks about their specialty. First-come, first-served. WANT TO GO? $22; $17 seniors and students; $12.50 children ages 2-12. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.
Medieval Heroes and Becoming a Knight
WHEN: Feb. 4-5, Saturday-Sunday, 1-2pm WHERE: The Met Cloisters, 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Two workshops about knights and other medieval heroes. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors, $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-923-3700. metmuseum.org.
Family Day: Geodesic Dome
WHEN: Through Feb. 5: See website for show times WHERE: Theatre at the 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., East Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A wintery production that combines circus, theater, and dance. It tells the tale of Brianna who finds herself in an enchanted winter wonderland. WANT TO GO? $25-$50. 917-554-9225. snowkus-pocus.com.
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about the geodesic dome, then create your own mini dome. WANT TO GO? $6; $12 children. 212-358-6133. cfafoundation.org.
LC Kids Presents ‘Baobab’
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 18, 11am-12:15pm WHERE: Aesthetic Realism Foundation, 141 Greene St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This class teaches everyone’s deepest desire is to like the world. WANT TO GO? $8. 212-777-4490. aestheticrealism.org.
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 2pm WHERE: Clark Studio Theater, 165 W. 65th St., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The story of a boy born from a egg from a tree in West Africa during a drought. What happens when villagers discover only he can free the water? WANT TO GO? $25. 212-546-2656. kids.lincolncenter.org.
‘Galumpha’
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrating the human body, this show uses visual effects, physical comedy, and inventive choreography. WANT TO GO? $17. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.
TADA!’s Original Musical ‘The History Mystery’
WHEN: Through Feb. 20: See website for dates and times WHERE: TADA! Youth Theater, 15 W. 28th St., 3rd Floor, Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Meet kids who changed the world. WANT TO GO? $10-$25. 212-252-1619. tadatheater.com.
‘A Year With Frog and Toad’
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 26, 1:30pm WHERE: Tribeca Performing Arts Center, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Meet the cheerful, popular Frog and the curmudgeonly Toad. WANT TO GO? $30. 212-220-1460. tribecapac.org.
‘Water On Mars’
WHEN: Feb. 10-26, see website for show times WHERE: New Victory Theater, 229 W. 42nd St., Theater District AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A three-man performing troupe that takes juggling to the next level. WANT TO GO? $16-$38. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.
How Do We See People? Hurrah for Sameness & Difference!
Interactive Tour: A Child’s View of Life in 19th Century New York
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 25, 3:30pm WHERE: Merchant’s House Museum, 29 E. 4th St., East Village AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Tour the house and learn what life was like for children in the 1850s. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-777-1089. merchantshouse.org.
Tours for Fours: All Around Sculpture FREE
WHEN: Feb. 4-26, Saturday-Sunday, 10:20-11:15am WHERE: The Museum of Modern Art, 11 W. 53rd St., Midtown AGES: 4, adult WHAT: Look, listen, and share ideas while you explore art. WANT TO GO? 212-708-9805. moma.org/family.
Healthyville
WHEN: Through March 26: Tuesday-Wednesday and Friday-Sunday, 11am-6pm; Thursday, 11am-9pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: A mini exhibit created to teach health and wellness to kids. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 students and seniors; free for children younger than 2. 212-619-4785. mocanyc.org.
Weather or Not, That is the Question
WHEN: Feb. 2-May 20, Monday, 12-5pm; Thursday-Friday, 12-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: 9 and older WHAT: An exhibition exploring our obsession with extreme weather. WANT TO GO? $12; free for seniors and children younger than 1. 2122740986. cmany.org. ››
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FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Winter Carnival FREE
ONCE UPON A TIME PJ Library Storytime at JCC Manhattan FREE
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 17, 12pm WHERE: JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Celebrate Jewish traditions in a monthly story time and sing-along. WANT TO GO? 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org.
LC Kids Storytime at the Atrium: Jerry Pinkney FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 18, 11am WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium, 61 W. 62nd St., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: The legendary book illustrator reads from his catalogue of books that use watercolor illustrations to tell stories of the African-American experience. WANT TO GO? 212-875-5000. kids.lincolncenter.org.
Daily Story Hour FREE
WHEN: Through Feb. 25: Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30am WHERE: Bank Street Bookstore, 2780 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Features a roster of talented storytellers, puppeteers, and musicians, such as Esther Crow of the Thunder and Sunshine band. WANT TO GO? 212-678-1654. bankstreetbooks.com.
Read To Chucky or Fritz the New York Therapy Dogs FREE
WHEN: Through Feb. 25: Wednesdays, 4pm; Saturdays, 11am WHERE: New York Public Library, Yorkville Branch, 222 E. 79th St., Upper East Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy 1-on-1, no-pressure reading time with a furry friend. Registration required and opens one week in advance. WANT TO GO? 212-744-5824. nypl.org.
Storytime at The Strand FREE
WHEN: Feb. 4-25, Saturdays, 1-2pm WHERE: Strand Book Store, 828 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Each weekend, a book character visits the Strand for story time and crafts. In February, meet Pete the Cat, Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Elmo. WANT TO GO? 212-473-1452. strandbooks.com/story-time.
Storytime in Nolen Library
WHEN: Feb. 1-28, Sunday, 2-2:30pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 3-3:30pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Gather around for story time and singing with picture books. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-570-3961. metmuseum.org. 40
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Through Feb. 4: daily, see website for times WHERE: Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, Between West 40th and 42nd streets, Fifth and Sixth avenues, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Activities include an ice castle, dancing, skating and curling lessons, and a silent disco. WANT TO GO? 212-768-4242. wintervillage.org.
Tu B’Shevat Celebration FREE
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 9, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: The event will include planting, sensory play, and art, as well as acknowledging Tu B’Shevat and the beauty of trees. WANT TO GO? 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org.
Filipino Cultural Festival
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 10am-3pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the culture of the Philippines. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.
ON SCREEN Family Film: ‘Fantasia’
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 2-4pm WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: All WHAT: A rare opportunity to see Fantasia on the big screen with surround sound. Grab a bag of popcorn, watch the film, and then take part in gallery exploration and art workshop. WANT TO GO? $22; $18 seniors; free for children. 212-671-8346. whitney.org/families.
Family Films: ‘Lessons Learned’ FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 12-1pm WHERE: The Museum of Modern Art, 4 W. 54th St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy contemporary animated films, engaging discussions with a museum educator, and suggestions for follow-up activities. WANT TO GO? 212-708-9805. moma.org/family.
Movie Monday FREE
WHEN: Feb. 6-27, Monday, 3:30pm WHERE: New York Public Library, Riverside Branch, 127 Amsterdam Ave., Lincoln Square AGES: All WHAT: In February see The BFG, The Lady and the Tramp, and Finding Dory. WANT TO GO? 212-870-1810. nypl.org.
Kid Flicks FREE
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 27, 4pm
CAMP MARKETPLACE
WHERE: New York Public Library, Yorkville Branch, 222 E. 79th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Watch short films based on popular picture books, including Winnie The Pooh & A Day for Eeyore and Happy Birthday Moon. All films subject to last minute substitutions. WANT TO GO? 212-744-5824. nypl.org.
CELEBRATING
25 YEARS
Film Forum Jr. Screenings
WHEN: Through March 19: Sundays, 11am WHERE: Film Forum, 209 W. Houston St., Soho AGES: 5 and older WHAT: January movies include Time Bandits and Lassie Comes Home. WANT TO GO? $8. 212-727-8112. filmforum.org.
JUNIORS:
AGES
4-8 || SENIORS:
AGES
9-13
FLEXIBLE 2 - 8 WEEK SESSIONS
DANCE PARTY American Ballet Theatre Studio Company
WHEN: Feb. 10-11, Saturday, 7pm; Sunday, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, 566 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A unique shared performance which is the result of an exchange scheme between the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company and graduate students of The Royal Ballet School of London. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 212-352-3101. skirballcenter.nyu.edu.
CirKiz
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 1-5pm WHERE: Space Ibiza NY, 637 W. 50th St., Midtown AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids’ dance party in a real New York nightclub. WANT TO GO? $30. 212-650-5266. cirkiz.com.
New York City Ballet: ‘Sleeping Beauty’
WHEN: Feb. 8-19, daily, see website for show times WHERE: Lincoln Center, David H. Koch Theater, Broadway and 64th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This enchanting full-length ballet is one of NYCB’s grandest spectacles of classical dance, featuring luxurious sets and costumes, Tschaikovsky’s score, and a cast of fantastical characters. WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 212-870-5570. nycballet.com.
New York City Ballet: Family Saturdays
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 25, 11am WHERE: Lincoln Center: David H. Koch Theater, Broadway and 64th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: One-hour interactive presentations featuring excerpts from New York City Ballet’s diverse repertory. Performed by Company dancers and members of the NYCB Orchestra. WANT TO GO? $22. 212-870-5570. nycballet.com.
Harkness Dance Festival
WHEN: Feb. 24-March 25, see website for show times WHERE: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A five-week dance festival showcasing some of the most groundbreaking dancers and choreographers in the world. Featuring a full spectrum of dance, this year’s festival features The New York Theatre Ballet, Joel Lobenthal, Philandanco, Jessica Lang Dance, and more. WANT TO GO? $20-$25. 212-415-5500. 92y.org. ››
Private Pool • Field Sports • Pier 25 Karate • Tennis • Arts & Crafts Ooey Gooey Science • Music & Drumming Movement & Dance • Animal Hour Lego Construction • Song Shows Weekly Field Trips
Choice Time For Senior Division Campers ATHLETICS || AQUATICS || ART & SCIENCES THE COMPLETE CAMP EXPERIENCE
LOCATED IN TRIBECA New Bus Service Available
DOWNTOWNDAYCAMP.COM
212.766.1104
EXT.
1250
contact for open house & tour info
BigAppleParent 41
Watson Adventures’ Grand Central Scramble Family Scavenger Hunt
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 23, 10:30am WHERE: Grand Central Station, 89 E. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Kids and adults work together to uncover the secrets of Grand Central. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $22; $18 children ages 7-17. 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.
Winter Games FREE
WHEN: Through Feb. 27: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 3:30-5:30pm WHERE: Battery Park City Parks Conservancy, BPC Ball Fields, West Street between Murray and Warren streets, Battery Park AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Wrap up warm and get the blood pumping with sports and activities on the ball fields. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.
MOVERS & SHAKERS Star Wars Yoga Jedi Training and Clone Wars Screening
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 10, 6-8pm WHERE: Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd Floor, Chelsea AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Yoga workshop with Star Wars theme. Costumes are encouraged. WANT TO GO? $50. 646-638-1444. karmakidsyoga.com.
110th NYRR Millrose Games
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 12-6pm WHERE: Armory New Balance Track & Field Center, 216 Fort Washington Ave., Washington Heights AGES: All WHAT: This track-and-field event features some of the most prolific male and female stars in the country, plus collegiate, high school, club, and youth competitors. Many top competitors are also Olympians. WANT TO GO? $20 and up. 212-923-1803. nyrrmillrosegames.org.
Pushcarts & Postcard: A Hot Cider Walking Tour
Bank of America Winter Village
WHEN: Through March 5: daily, 8am-10pm WHERE: Bryant Park, 40th Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues, Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This rink stays open until March so now is a great time to take a spin. WANT TO GO? Free entry, skate hire starts at $20. wintervillage.org.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center
WHEN: Through April 1: 8:30am-10pm, see website for session times WHERE: The Rockefeller Center, 600 Fifth Ave., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: January is a great time to skate as the crowds are much smaller. WANT TO GO? $25-$32; $15 seniors and for children 11 and younger; $12 skate rental. 212-938-0005. therinkatrockcenter.com.
HOLIDAY FUN Chinese New Year Celebration, Year of the Rooster
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 11am-1pm WHERE: Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge St., Lower East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: To celebrate a new exhibit of historic postcards from the Blavatnik Archive, take part in a walking tour of the LES and see what these local sites look like today. WANT TO GO? $20 per family. 212-219-0302 x7. eldridgestreet.org.
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 1-7pm WHERE: China Institute in America, 100 Washington St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Families can enjoy New Year-themed workshops and activities including dumpling making, storytelling, and lantern making. In the evening there is a party featuring a lion dance, food, and live music. WANT TO GO? $20. 212-744-8181. chinainstitute.org.
She’s On Point FREE
Spotlight Asia: Year of the Rooster
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 18, 11am-3pm WHERE: Hansborough Recreation Center, Harlem; Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center, Upper West Side; and Recreation Center 54, Midtown East AGES: All WHAT: A day of aqua sports demonstrations, clinics, and workshops for girls and women. Bring bathing suits and caps. WANT TO GO? 212-408-0262. nycgovparks.org.
Harlem Globetrotters
WHEN: Feb. 19-20, Sunday, 7pm; Monday, 12pm and 6pm WHERE: Madison Square Garden, 2 Penn Plaza, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: The Globies are back in Manhattan with a star-studded roster to entertain the audience. WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 800-745-3000. thegarden.com. 42
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 12-4pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Explore calligraphy, traditional storytelling, hands-on projects, and learn about how the rooster is connected to dinosaurs. WANT TO GO? $22; $17 for students and seniors; $12.50 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.
Lunar New Year Festival: Year of the Rooster
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 11am-6pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Mark the Year of the Rooster, with performances, a lion
CAMP MARKETPLACE dancer parade, fun gallery activities, and artist-led workshops. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-570-3951. metmuseum.org.
Lunar New Year: Year of the Rooster Celebration FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 1:30pm WHERE: Brookfield Place, 220 Vesey St., Battery Park City AGES: All WHAT: Ring in the Lunar New Year with a family-friendly performance, presented in partnership with the New York Chinese Cultural Center. Featuring traditional Chinese music, martial arts, and a lion parade. WANT TO GO? brookfieldplaceny.com.
Family Day: George Washington’s Birthday
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 18, 11am-1pm WHERE: Morris-Jumel Mansion, 65 Jumel Terrace, Washington Heights AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Celebrate our Founding Father’s birthday. Make Washingtonthemed crafts and explore his war room in Manhattan’s oldest house. WANT TO GO? $10; $8 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-923-8008. morrisjumel.org.
Presidents’ Day Family Trivia Spectacular
WHEN: Monday, Feb. 20, 2pm and 3:30pm WHERE: New York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Presidents’ Day-themed historical quiz for all ages. WANT TO GO? $25. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.
School Break Program
WHEN: Feb. 21-23, Tuesday-Thursday, 1-4pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Day off from school? Drop in and create works of art. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors, $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-570-3961. metmuseum.org.
KEEP CALM AND COME TO CAMP! Daily Swim Instruction at our onͲsite pool Themed weeks including circus & safari! Music Jam Sessions P.E. & Soccer Science & Technology Enrichment Coding Lessons (seniors) Maths & Literacy Games and much, much more! When: June 26th Ͳ August 4th 2017 Ͳ 9am Ͳ 3pm For: Boys & Girls 3 Ͳ 10 years old 20 Waterside Plaza, East 23rd St, NY, NY, 10010 ▪ www.bis-ny.org/summer-camp ▪ ▪ camp@bis-ny.org ▪ (212) 481-2700 ▪ ALSO INTRODUCING CONSTRUCTION KIDS! At The British International School of NY - visit www.bis-ny.org/summer-camp for more details!
February School Vacation Week
WHEN: Feb. 18-26, daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Take part in scavenger hunts and art activities, as well as a chance to “meet” and learn about various presidents throughout the week. WANT TO GO? $19; $15 seniors, educators, and active military; $12 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children 4 and younger. 212873-3400. nyhistory.org. ››
CAMP MARKETPLACE
Rapunzel Premiere with brand new songs! February 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th at 2pm When a husband sneaks into a garden for his wife he makes a promise to a witch. Will his promise be kept and his daughter doomed to live in a tower or will a prince come along and save her from her fate? For children aged 4 and up.
Mid-Winter Acting Camp: Mon., Feb., 20th- Fri., Feb. 24th, 9am-1pm • Price: $410 Offering the camp in English, French and German Visit us at gallitheaternyc.com, email us at galliny@gmail.com For tickets, birthday parties, school shows & camps please call us at 212-731-0668 • 151 W 26th street, 7th Floor New York, NY 10001
Just a seven-minute walk from the new Second Avenue subway! AGES 4½ TO 15 SWIM • SPORTS • ARTS • FIELD TRIPS • SPECIAL EVENTS • THEME DAYS • BUS SERVICE
Join the fun! Camp starts June 29. Register today at asphaltgreen.org UPPER EAST SIDE
555 E. 90th St. (at york avenue)
BATTERY PARK CITY
212 North End Ave (at murray street)
212.298.7900
BigAppleParent 43 BIG APPLE PARENTS_FEB 2017_3.55x4.7_AD_v2.indd 1
1/24/17 12:06 PM
depth look at the multi platinum-selling artist. See photographs and home videos, interactive experiences, handwritten lyrics, and iconic performance outfits. WANT TO GO? $9; free for children 5 and younger. southstreetseaport.com.
‘Gustafer Yellowgold Show’
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 25, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Come and meet Gustafer Yellowgold, a friendly creature from the sun who lives a psychedelic life in the Minnesota woods. WANT TO GO? $17. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.
SPECIAL NEEDS MINI
MUSICIANS Red Yarn: A Deep Woods Musical Adventure
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Red Yarn (aka Andy Furgeson) is a dynamic family performer who weaves folksongs and puppetry into engaging shows for all ages. WANT TO GO? $17. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.
The Little Orchestra Society’s ‘Mendelssohn’
Autism-Friendly Performance: ‘Elephant and Piggie’
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 3pm WHERE: New Victory Theatre, 229 W. 42nd St., Theater District AGES: 3-12 WHAT: An autism-friendly version of the musical adaption of the best selling children’s books. WANT TO GO? $25. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.
AMC Sensory Friendly Screenings
WHEN: Through Feb. 25: Saturdays, see website for show times WHERE: AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9, 2309 Frederick Douglass Blvd., Harlem and AMC Loews 84th Street, 2310 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: In February, see The Lego Batman Movie and Rock Dog. WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-665-6923. amctheatres.com.
WHEN: Feb. 11-12, Saturday-Sunday, see website for show times WHERE: Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College, 68th Street between Lexington and Park avenues, Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This month’s performance introduces the story of Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn. Find out about the dynamic and talented brothersister team, their sibling rivalry, and musical talents. WANT TO GO? $15-$48. 212-971-9500. littleorchestra.org.
Inclusive Saturdays FREE
Baby Got Bach: String ‘Stravaganza
Open Play Community Day FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 18, 10am WHERE: 92Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Littles will learn all about string instruments, and even play one themselves, in this interactive event for children. WANT TO GO? $20. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.
WHEN: Through March 25: Saturdays, 9:30-10:45am WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., West Village AGES: 3-8 WHAT: These 75-minute workshops are designed to help younger children with autism develop social interaction and communication skills, manual dexterity, and the ability to express themselves through art. WANT TO GO? 212-274-0986. cmany.org/saturdays. WHEN: Through Aug. 12: Saturdays, 10am-12pm WHERE: ATLAS Foundation for Autism, 252 W. 29th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Every other week, ATLAS welcomes members of the autism community and their families to drop in, play, and connect in a worry-free environment.. WANT TO GO? 212-256-0846. atlasforautism.org.
Elizabeth Mitchell and You Are My Flower
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 18, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Ticket holders will be treated to Mitchell’s trademark homespun renditions of songs from a varied playbook. WANT TO GO? $17. 503-293-9498. symphonyspace.org.
The Grammy Museum: Taylor Swift Experience
WHEN: Through Feb. 19: Monday-Thursday, 12-6pm; Friday, 10am7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: The Seaport District, 19 Fulton St., South Street Seaport AGES: All WHAT: On tour from Los Angeles, this exhibition gives an in44
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Coming up next month: MARCH 17: NYC Saint Patrick’s Day Parade along Fifth Avenue between 44th and 79th streets, Midtown MARCH 19: The Lightning Thief at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, Tribeca MARCH: 23-26: PAW Patrol Live!: Race to the Rescue at The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Midtown
BigAppleParent 45
WHERE-TO GUIDE
nymetroparents.com/where-to
Indoor Play Spaces
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Research by Jonathan Perry
If you’re looking for a fun place for your kids to get the sillies out, don’t let the cold weather keep you home. There are plenty of enjoyable ways to keep children amused during the winter months, including bounce houses, sports centers, and indoor gyms. When you’re looking to get out of the house but still stay warm, you can drop in at these places on a moment’s notice, no reservation or membership required. Hours are subject to change—please call ahead or check the website to confirm.
Apple Seeds 10 W. 25th St., Chelsea 212-792-7590 200 West End Ave., Upper West Side 212-792-7591 252 First Ave., Stuyvesant Town 212-792-7590 appleseedsplay.com Apple Seeds is a family-operated play center with three locations in Manhattan. The center boasts a sports playground with basketball nets, soft gym equipment, and nine permanent NYC-themed exhibits to ensure safe, age-appropriate activities for ages newborn to 5. A full service snack bar on-site gives parents the chance to relax while the kids play. The Art Farm 419 E. 91st St., Upper East Side 212-410-3117; theartfarms.org Are you a family of animal lovers? If so, be sure to head over to The Art Farm, a unique indoor petting zoo. Kids will be able to get close to all sorts of animals (including guinea pigs, lizards, turtles, and bunnies), learn about them, and have fun while doing it. The Art Farm also offers 46
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
music, cooking, and art programs for children ages 6 months to 8 years. Chelsea Piers 62 Chelsea Piers, Chelsea 212-336-6666 chelseapiers.com Drop-in activities are available for children of all ages, including a Toddler Gym with open play equipment for ages 4 and younger; open hockey, soccer, rock climbing, basketball, and ice-skating; and a class for preschoolers called CP Champs with activities such as gymnastics, trampoline, and foam pit play. Citigym at Citibabes 52 Mercer St., 3rd Floor, Soho 212-334-5440 citibabes.com This 1,500-square-foot indoor play space located inside the main Citibabes center is jam-packed with soft climbing and sliding structures for kids ages 10 and younger. Equipment highlights include trampolines, balance beams, a mini-rock wall, ball pits, and tunnels. There’s also a family-friendly café that offers plenty of tasty delights to
keep your little ones’ energy levels up all day long! City Treehouse 129A W. 20th St., Chelsea 212-255-2050 citytreehouse.com City Treehouse, a children’s play and learning facility, brings the great outdoors inside with nature-themed play areas, interactive water play, and supervised activities for children ages 2 months to 8 years. Children can pick from a host of fun adventures including learning how to construct a dam in the water play area, climbing up the two-story tree house, or exploring the fiber-optic star cave. The Playroom NYC 1439 First Ave., Upper East Side 212-729-6149 theplayroomnyc.com The 3,000-square-foot facility offers all day open play hours Monday-Friday, with morning hours on weekends. The space features an indoor climbing structure, a toddler room, and a pretend play area. Kids ages 5 and younger are welcome.
CAMP MARKETPLACE
ABRONS ARTS CAMP July 5 – August 18
Visual art, music, theater, dance Visit museums, theaters and water parks Student exhibitions and performances
9am–5pm 8:30am drop off Optional extended day Half sessions available
ASK ABOUT FINANCIAL AID, EARLY BIRD, AND SIBLING DISCOUNTS
WEB abronsartscenter.org PHONE 212-598-0400 EMAIL info@henrystreet.org VISIT 466 Grand Street
2017 Sewing Camp 9:30AM - 2:30PM Monday - Friday
Kids learn a variety of hand and machine-sewing skills while they make fun pillows, hand bags, stylish outfits, fashion accessories, American doll apparel and much more. Every day kids will take home their daily creations.
Summer Camp: Week 1.........June 12-16 Week 2........June 19-23 Week 3........June 26-30 July 5 - 9 CLOSED Week 4........July 10-14 Week 5........July 17-21
Week Week Week Week Week Week
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Conchi Vitale | SewHo 415 West Broadway New York , NY 10012 Tel: (917) 715-8835 | info@sewinginsoho.com | SewHo.com
EINY 2017 Summer Camp June 26 - July 14, 2017 for children 3 to 10 years old Fun and bilingual experience in French and English (learners of all levels) through activities like art, dance, music, sports, and cultural excursions at our campus located in the Flatiron Neighborhood. For information contact Anthony Bernier at Anthony@einy.org 111 East 22nd Street, New York , NY 10010 | 646.410.2238 | EINY.ORG
BigAppleParent 47
Teaching Kids Consent
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How to talk to children of all ages about appropriate and inappropriate touching By Bethany Braun-Silva
A
s parents, we naturally try to compensate for our kids’ shortcomings. My son is painfully shy around people he doesn’t know, a fact I often tell people before they have a chance to make assumptions about him. However, with family I tend to compensate in the other direction and insist that my son give Aunt So-and-So a hug when we leave family events. However, I recently learned this is not recommended as a parenting technique: Our kids need to learn consent and how to set boundaries themselves. Though you can guide them, they will ultimately have to decide for themselves. If my son doesn’t want to give his aunt a hug, then she will just have to accept that—and so will I. Here are some helpful tips for discussing consent with your kids and helping them to establish their own boundaries.
Young Children
Teaching “no” and “stop”: Empower your children to say no when they don’t want to have physical contact with another person, including relatives. “When kids can speak up about what kind of play and affection is and is not okay with them, even under emotional pressure to please someone, they are far better prepared to handle sexual pressure as they get older,” says Irene van der Zande, founder of Kidpower, a nonprofit that teaches kids and adults skills for child protection, positive communication, and personal safety. Teach empathy. Very young children don’t understand their actions have consequences. Teach them that if they hit, the
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person they hit gets hurt. Ask them how they would feel if they were hit. Keep the tone kind and casual, so you don’t induce shame in your child. Help children understand facial expressions and body language. Being able to read another person is a great way for children to understand consent and also to be able to react appropriately. They can learn to back off if they are overwhelming a friend or offer kind words if they notice a sibling is sad. Help them recognize when something feels strange. Teaching kids to honor their gut instincts is a great way to teach consent and awareness. If something doesn’t feel right, then it probably isn’t. Teach your children to speak up in uncomfortable situations. Talk to them on their level. When discussing issues like touching and consent with young children, keep conversations short, very focused, and to the point, says Lisa Cassidy, Ph.D., a psychologist who practices on Long Island.
Big Kids
Encourage kids to check in with each other during playtime. Imaginary worlds can sometimes be consuming to children at play, and it’s important to remind them to take a timeout now and again to make sure every one is okay. Encourage your child to be more mindful. Did he see bullying on the playground? Did she say something hurtful unknowingly? Ask your kids how they would handle the situation
CAMP MARKETPLACE differently next time. Also, this is a good age to discuss stranger safety, Dr. Cassidy says. Don’t tease, even if you think it’s harmless. Children may start to develop crushes during this time, and it’s important to take your children’s emotions seriously. You can ask questions, but make sure your child feels comfortable enough to talk about it. “As children mature, open conversations are essential,” says Jeffrey Kassinove, Ph.D., clinical director at Therapy West in Manhattan. “Your child needs to feel that they won’t be judged by you. As they move into the pre-teen and teenager stage, emotions are strong. Teaching them about situations that can put them at risk is key.” Reinforce the idea that your child’s behavior has an effect on others. And encourage her to help others when she can. This includes things as simple as noticing litter on the street, cleaning her room (and noticing what happens when she doesn’t), or sharing with a sibling. If your child learns the effect he has on his surroundings, he will be more inclined to make positive choices.
Teens
Build self-esteem. As kids grow, they become more selfconscious and fall into the habit of comparing themselves to their peers or to images on social media (thanks, Instagram!). Continue to remind her that she is special and unique. Highlight his talents and accomplishments and remember to keep an eye out for signs of bullying. Nix “locker room” talk. While this phrase has gotten a lot of press lately, it’s important to teach our children that offensive and disrespectful talk is unacceptable even in private. Remind your teenagers that words carry weight and talking about people like they are objects can have some serious repercussions and leave badly hurt feelings in its wake. Discuss changing hormones. Teens’ bodies go through a lot of changes. Some can be scary and unusual, so tell your teen that as embarrassing as it may be, she can always come to you with questions about her body. Set expectations about drinking and partying. Set clear boundaries. Let your child know that you do not want him drinking or doing drugs but you understand that there will be parties. Loading your child with information about drugs and alcohol will be the best defense. Explain how behaviors change when a person gets inebriated and that defenses go down. Explain that someone who is impaired by drugs or alcohol is not capable of making decisions about whether to be kissed or touched—and drunkenness or being high is certainly no excuse for someone to be physically aggressive or to try to push them to have unwanted physical contact. Empower her to not fall victim to peer pressure. Talk about sex. This promises to be an awkward but nonetheless important talk. Teaching children what is and is not appropriate when it comes sex will lay the groundwork for them for years to come. Teens, though they hate to admit it, still need guidance from their parents. You are their best resource when it comes to explaining hormones and sexuality. Tell him whatever he decides to do sexually is ultimately his own choice, and though it can be scary, the best thing is for him to be empowered and informed. It’s okay to tell her that a healthy, consensual, sexual relationship can be a wonderful thing—and be sure to emphasize in no uncertain terms that mutual consent and practicing safe sex are non-negotiable.
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BigAppleParent 49
Demystifying the Dentist
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A guide to what to expect at kids’ dental visits and tips for keeping their mouths healthy By Jonathan Perry
I
t’s no secret that many children are scared of going to the dentist, a fear that is unfortunately often reinforced by dentists’ portrayal on TV shows and in pop culture—as well as by many grown-ups’s own reactions to the twice-yearly need for dental checkups. For sure, visits to the dentist can be confusing, for kids and parents, coming as they do with an array of procedures and terminology, not to mention equipment and instruments that are all unique to the dentists’ and orthodontists’ offices. In that spirit, we spoke with several area pediatric dentists and orthodontists in an effort to demystify visits to their offices and explain what goes on there and why these procedures are so important. “Children fear the unknown, and are often misinformed about the dentist,” says Marc Adelberg, D.D.S., who practices at Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dentistry, which has three locations on Long Island. “We understand that what we do impacts the child’s life forever, so we try to make things fun and inviting for them.” Since February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, here’s a primer to what generally goes on when kids visit the dentist and orthodontist. 50
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Dental Procedures Explained
Routine dental exams are evaluations that gauge your child’s overall dental health. At the exam, the dentist (and/or hygienist) will clean your child’s teeth, review the technique for how she should be flossing and brushing, discuss oral hygiene generally, and apply topical fluoride treatment, which is a delivery of fluoride minerals to the teeth to help protect them from cavities. At some visits, the dentist will take X-rays. Checkups can address potential problems in your child’s mouth early so she’ll need minimal treatment or interventions when she’s older. Children, like adults, should have routine dental exams every six months. “Bad brushing habits and hygiene habits can all be taken into account,” Dr. Adelberg says. “Parents should get them to the dentist early so we can help treat and coach them at an early age.” X-rays are screenings that take images of your child’s mouth on each side. They provide a close-up view of your child’s jaw and tooth structure, and can reveal weaknesses such as cavities and demineralization, which is the reduction of mineral substances in the teeth. X-rays provide a view of your child’s mouth that normal eyesight can’t provide, according to Rania
CAMP MARKETPLACE Elbaz, D.D.S., who practices at Merrick Pediatric Dentistry in Merrick. “Bite-wings, occlusal, and panoramic X-rays take images of the child’s mouth from front to back, including the molars,” Dr. Elbaz says, referring to three different types of X-rays. “These X-rays can evaluate a child’s bite and even identify jaw abnormalities.” Your child’s teeth push closer together as they grow, making them more prone to cavities as more plaque accumulates between the teeth. When your child is 2 or 3 years old, dentists will take X-rays of his mouth to help track the teeth’s progression. Sealants are thin, white plastic coatings that are placed at the tops of the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to help prevent tooth decay. The groves and chewing surfaces of the teeth can accumulate plaque, since they’re the most susceptible to cavities in children and teens. The protective coating offered by sealants is recommended for kids ages 6-8 for the first set of molars and ages 12-14 for the second set of molars. Fillings are composites that are placed in the weakened mineral deposits of one’s teeth to help prevent cavities or fill the holes when cavities occur. Fillings can prevent the teeth from decaying further by blocking bacteria from entering the teeth. They can also be used to restore teeth for cosmetic purposes by giving them the appropriate shade of color that matches one’s teeth. Extractions are used to either facilitate other procedures in a crowded mouth or to remove a tooth that is beyond saving. Extractions can also be necessary to correct jaw spacing or provide the room necessary for braces. Every child’s mouth is different, says Glen Ehrenman, D.D.S., who practices at Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry in Westbury. “Kids are evaluated each time they come in with growth and development, but everyone grows and develops at their own pace.” Pediatric dentists will evaluate your child’s mouth to see if she needs any extractions. If your child is anxious about the procedure, dentists can offer the option of sedating your child through the extraction. Laser treatment is a method of handling delicate procedures in children as young as 2-3, such as cavities and lip ties, which happen when the upper lips of infants are tethered to the upper gums from birth. The laser can remove tooth decay without touching the tooth, and it also numbs the tooth as an added bonus for your child’s comfortability. Laser treatment is not a common treatment, and only select offices have this equipment. Renuka Bijoor, D.D.S., who practices at Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry in Briarcliff Manor, says laser technology is her practice’s most utilized procedure tool. She explains that it can be used in multiple procedures in children without instilling any trauma like anesthesia shots. For example, dentists can use laser treatment in place of the conventional drill when treating cavities, eliminating the need for anesthesia shots and making your child’s experience the least invasive and painful as possible. “The experience is shorter and much less dramatic,” Dr. Bijoor says. “It gives the patient a healthy experience and prevents the fear of the dentist from developing early on.” Braces are used for aligning crooked teeth and to help position someone’s bite. Wires are attached along the teeth to align them slowly over time causing minimal discomfort. Pediatric dentists evaluate kids’ mouths to decide if braces may be required, while an orthodontist will make the decision and do the work of installing
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BigAppleParent 51
CAMP MARKETPLACE
CUB CREEK
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mosciencecamp.com 573-458-2125 Request a FREE brochure!
with 300 animals, a 6 element ropes course, and an u n b e l i e va b l e va r i e t y of activities, cub creek is a t r u ly unique summer camp experience for boys a n d g i r l s 7 to 1 7 ! W e a r e d e d i c at e d to providing the most r e wa r d i n g summer camp experience possible in a safe, fun, and loving e n v i r o n m e n t. 90 trained and caring s ta f f h e l p to e n s u r e t h at e a c h s u m m e r i s filled with g r e at memories and friendships!
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‹‹ continued from previous page
braces. The wires on the braces are tightened to adjust teeth every four to six weeks, and children can wear them for two to three years on average.
Top Dental Health Tips
Of course, a strong dose of prevention can help your child avoid some of the more invasive and intense dental procedures (though, as with everything health-related, there is no way to guarantee it). Here is some advice for securing, recovering, and sustaining oral health. Oral health begins as early as in infancy. Clean your child’s gums and mouth with a washcloth before teeth start coming in, Dr. Bijoor says. Once his teeth come in, you can use a finger brush or baby toothbrush with just water, no toothpaste required, and then maintain the routine of brushing every morning and night. Your child should see a dentist regularly after her first tooth comes in. Dr. Bijoor recommends your child see the dentist when she turns 1 or six months after her first tooth comes in. She should then see the doctor every six months thereafter. Understand your dentist’s emergency procedures early on. At an early age, your child’s teeth are vulnerable to trauma such as tooth chipping from tripping on the playground, Dr. Elbaz says. Most dentists reserve time in their daily schedules for such emergency occasions, allowing them to take action on her teeth immediately. Discuss with your dentist what to do when emergencies arise—before any actually happen. Visit the proper pediatric dentist. Go to the dentist that best fits your child’s specific needs, Dr. Ehrenman says. Some examples of what your child may need include habit counseling for pacifier use or thumb sucking, special preventative care for teething and gum disease, or management of conditions such as ulcers and tongue-tie. Maintain regular routines. Dr. Elbaz recommends your child follow the proper routine of having her teeth brushed every morning and night once they start coming in. Brushing and flossing should be as much a part of her expected daily set of activities as bathing, changing clothes or pajamas, and the like. Eat a proper diet. Limit juice, snacks, and sugars, Dr. Ehrenman says. Frequent snacking can build up carbohydrates in the mouth, leading to acids that could promote tooth decay. Snacks should be healthy and not too sticky or full of sugar. Avoid caloric drinks after nighttime brushing. Consuming calories after brushing one’s teeth—which we do to eliminate the buildup of plaque on the teeth—defeats the point of brushing, Dr. Elbaz says. Items to avoid include soda, juices, and milk; water is okay. Help your children with brushing until they learn to tie their own shoes. That’s when a child’s motor skills are advanced enough for him to be adept at brushing his own teeth properly. Give your child fluoride supplementation. Children can be given fluoride vitamin supplements that’ll help strengthen their permanent teeth in the future, Dr. Ehrenman says. Don’t give up. It is important for you not to stop performing a dental-health routine or technique because your child isn’t cooperating or making a fuss, Dr. Bijoor says. Eventually, children will get used to the routine. And, eventually, they may even thank you for helping to keep their mouths healthy. Jonathan Perry is a former NYMP editorial intern.
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Soup and a Sandwich
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Nothing goes better with soup than a sandwich. Here are two combos to warm up after a chilly day. By Hannah Miles Vegetable soup with Reuben sandwiches This is a true comfort food combination—a wholesome vegetable soup served with classic New York Reuben sandwiches. I have to confess that I utterly adore a Reuben sandwich—there is just something so comfortingly indulgent about tangy horseradish mayo, sauerkraut, and salt beef all warm with melting gooey cheese. It’s happiness on a plate! This vegetable soup can be made with any vegetables you chose, so it is great for using up whatever is in your fridge. If you prefer a chunky vegetable soup, cut the vegetables into small pieces and simmer until soft but do not blend the soup. If you are short of time you can substitute store-bought mayonnaise for the Russian dressing and just stir through a little ketchup and horseradish. Serves 4 For the soup 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 1 rib celery, trimmed and chopped 1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 leek 2 tablespoons butter 3 carrots (approximately 8 oz.), peeled and chopped 2 parsnips (approximately 12 oz.), peeled and chopped generous 3¼ cups chicken or vegetable stock
For the Russian dressing 2 egg yolks 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar generous ¾ cup mild olive oil 1 tablespoon horseradish 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup salt and pepper, to season For the Reuben sandwiches 8 slices rye bread 8-12 slices salt beef or pastrami 4 tablespoons prepared sauerkraut 8 slices Swiss cheese panini press
Directions 1. Begin by preparing the Russian dressing. Place the egg yolks, mustard, and vinegar in a blender or food processor and
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blitz. Very slowly drizzle in the olive oil and whisk until the mayonnaise is thick. Carefully fold through the horseradish and ketchup and season with salt and pepper. Store in a jar in the refrigerator until needed. 2. For the soup, add the onion, celery, and garlic to a large saucepan with the olive oil and fry over a gentle heat until soft. Trim the ends of the leek, discard any damaged leaves, and finely slice. Rinse well to remove any dirt and then add to the pan with the butter. Cook gently for approximately 5 minutes until the leeks have sweated down and are soft. Add the chopped carrots and parsnips to the pan with the stock and simmer for approximately 15 minutes until the carrots and parsnips are soft. The actual cooking time will depend on the size of the vegetables. Once the vegetables are soft, carefully transfer to a blender or food processor and blitz until the soup is smooth. Return to the pan and keep warm until you are ready to serve. 3. For the sandwiches, lightly butter the outside of the rye bread, then turn over on a board and spread a layer of the Russian dressing over four of the slices. Top with the salt beef slices. Heat the sauerkraut to evaporate the liquid and then sprinkle a spoonful over the beef in each sandwich. Top with two slices of cheese and a further spoonful of dressing and then top each sandwich with the remaining buttered rye slices. Toast each sandwich in the sandwich press until warm and the cheese has melted. 4. Serve the soup with sandwiches on the side for a delicious lunch or supper.
Butternut squash soup with Thanksgiving pretzel sandwiches I love to serve these as pretzel sandwiches, similar to those I have enjoyed on trips to Bavaria, but if you can’t find pretzels, thickcut slices of white bread are equally delicious. Serves 4
CAMP MARKETPLACE For the soup 2 onions, peeled and finely chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 tablespoon nigella seeds 2 lb. butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and chopped into chunks ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
pinch of cayenne pepper generous 3¼ cups chicken or vegetable stock For the sandwiches a few spoonfuls of mayonnaise 4 large soft pretzels 4 large slices turkey 4 tablespoons cranberry sauce 4 slices Swiss cheese
Directions 1. Place the onions in a large saucepan with the oil and cook over a gentle heat until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the garam masala, nigella seeds, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. If you do not like spicy soup, omit the cayenne pepper. Fry for a few minutes further to allow the spices to heat. Add the squash to the pan and cook for a few minutes, then add the stock and simmer for approximately 30 minutes until the squash is soft. 2. Pour the soup into the blender or food processor and blitz until smooth. Keep warm until you are ready to serve. 3. For the sandwiches, carefully slice each pretzel in half horizontally and spread each half with a little mayonnaise. Place a slice of turkey on each base and top with some cranberry sauce. Add slices of Swiss cheese and cover each with the pretzel tops. Serve the turkey-filled pretzels with the soup. Soup and a Sandwich by Hannah Miles, Ryland Peters & Small, $16.95. rylandpeters.com. Photography by Steve Painter.
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Learning to Ski ››
A peek at how two New York mountains teach newbies the popular winter sport By Katelin Walling
The author (in all black) and Franz Krickl, snowsports director at Windham Mountain Resort, ride a conveyer-belt type carpet lift to the top of one of Windham Mountain’s learning slopes. Hunter Mountain has a similar lift in its learning area.
G
rowing up in Maine, one would think I’d be a season lift ticket-holding ski bum, but that is not the case. I grew up cross-country skiing with Dad and snowshoeing with Mom and Dad, and I once took a snowboarding lesson with my older brother—because I had to do all of the cool things he was doing— but I ended up not wanting to pursue it. So when I got the opportunity to take private skiing lessons at Hunter Mountain (huntermtn. com) and Windham Mountain Resort (windhammountain.com), both in the Catskills region of New York, I jumped at the chance to see what many childhood friends were so obsessed with every winter.
Hunter Mountain
After the nearly 3-hour drive from Manhattan to Hunter, I acquired my lift ticket and lesson pass, headed over to the Rental Shop, and checked in on a computer, answering questions about my experience level, height, and weight—all needed to ensure I was given the proper skis. I was then fitted with boots, which should be snug but not uncomfortable to prevent blisters, and given skis, poles, and a helmet because as Mike, a rental attendant, said, “I like what I have between these,” pulling on his ears. Once I had my gear, I headed out to the Learning Zone to meet Hans, my instructor for the 1-hour lesson. After asking what I knew about skiing (next to nothing!), Hans taught me the basics—how to turn, stop, speed up, and slow down. I practiced these skills on a low-grade slope for almost 20 minutes, and when he thought I was ready, Hans took me up a conveyer belt-type carpet lift to the top of Gramercy Park—a slightly higher-grade slope—where I continued to practice my new skills. After 20 or so minutes on Gramercy Park, I graduated to riding the lift to a slightly higher trail, Central Park North, where Hans had me focus on controlling my speed and making complete, round turns while skiing among others—nerve-wracking to say the least! When my hour was up, Hans and I parted ways, but I stayed on the slopes for a while longer, practicing all the skills I had learned in the lesson.
Windham Mountain Resort
I stayed overnight at Hotel Vienna in Windham, and was up early 56
February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
for day two. At Windham Mountain Resort, the check-in process is similar to Hunter’s—pick up lift ticket and lesson pass, answer questions on the computer, get equipment, and meet the instructor just outside the Rental Shop. I was lucky to have Franz Krickl, snowsports director at Windham, as my instructor for the 2-hour lesson. I told Krickl what I learned the previous day and what I knew I needed to work on. We warmed up on Whisper Run, and then moved up to Wooly Bear, where I worked on controlling my speed and making turns. After nearly an hour on those two runs, we progressed to What’s Next?, which was higher up on the mountain and required using the lift. Throughout the lesson, Krickl would give helpful tips and point out what I should change to make skiing easier—mainly that to really control my speed, I needed to make my pizza wedge (toes pointed inward, heels out) bigger. At the end of the lesson, during which I had fallen two or three times, I skied a few more runs on What’s Next? to end my day on a high note.
A New Winter Hobby
In addition to private and group lessons for adults, both Hunter and Windham offer a variety of learn-to-ski programs for the whole family, including full- and half-day lessons for kids; season-long programs; and special programs for the youngest skiers. Windham is also home to the second largest adaptive ski program in the country, according to Krickl. When I was at Windham, the Adaptive Sports Foundation was hosting its Warriors in Motion Learn-to Ski and Snowboard Festival for veterans injured in Afghanistan and Iraq. After seeing the variety of skiers on the mountains—from a preschooler learning with Mom and Dad to the seasoned skier—skiing, and learning to ski, is a great activity for the whole family, and one which the family can progress through together. I ended the weekend with some sore muscles, two lift tickets fastened to my coat, and a new winter hobby I hope to enjoy a few more times before the season ends. To find more mountains in upstate New York that offer lessons for the whole family, visit nymetroparents.com/ski.
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PartyCentral Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources.
Boys and girls can get fit for free this spring with the NYRR Youth Running Series!
PARTY ENTERTAINMENT
NYRR Youth Run at the Washington Heights Salsa, Blues, & Shamrocks 5K
CLOWNS.COM Proudly Serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000 718-971-5862 clowns.com 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.
Sunday 8:30 a.m., March 5th, Washington Heights
NYRR Spring Youth Run Sunday 11:15 a.m., April 9th, Central Park
NYRR Youth Boardwalk Run at the Airbnb Brooklyn Half Saturday 11:15 a.m., May 20th, Brooklyn
Girls' Run at the NYRR New York Mini 10K Saturday 7:25 a.m., June 10th, Central Park Our races are fun, free, & take place in iconic NYC locations!
DAVE’S CAST OF CHARACTERS 914-235-7100 davescast.com Make your party a special one! Dave’s entertainment services include more than 100 costumed characters. From princesses and superheroes to pirates and tea parties, there’s something for everyone.
To sign up, visit nyrr.org today!
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JODI’S GYM 244 E. 84th St. 212-772-7633 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811; jodisgym.com Kids run, jump, climb, tumble, slide, bounce, and giggle to their hearts’ delight at Jodi’s Gym, where action-packed parties and unmatched experience have won children’s hearts for 34 years. THE LITTLE GYM 2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side 212-799-1225; tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues), Upper East Side 212-787-1124 tlguppereastsideny.com 777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072; tlgscarsdaleny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444; tlgwaldwicknj.com A private party at The Little Gym is a perfect way to celebrate your child’s next birthday. Gymnastics, games, obstacle courses, trampoline, sports, and music are tailored to your child’s interests!
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Professional services
Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals lara.bakshi@gmail.com LEGAL SERVICES Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and BAKSHI LAW children with disabilities, attending susOffices in the Financial District, Long pension hearings, CSE, and resolution Island, and Westchester meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance 917-244-6133 on a sliding scale. lawbakshi.com lara.bakshi@gmail.com LITTLE OPTICS, INC. Bakshi Law specializes in special 192-07 Union Turnpike, education law, representing parents and Fresh Meadows, Queens children with disabilities, attending sus53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside, pension hearings, CSE, and resolution Queens meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance 718-468-7500 on a sliding scale. Hablamos EspaĂąol littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional SPECIAL NEEDS eye care for children, including infants and young adults. We also alleviate any BAKSHI LAW self-esteem issues associated with the Offices in the Financial District, Long stigma of wearing glasses. When your Island, and Westchester child leaves Little Optics, rest assured 917-244-6133 that they will feel confident. lawbakshi.com
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Offers a Nurturing, Individualized Approach to Learning. Small class sizes with small group instruction. Daily use of Chromebooks, Smartboards in every classroom and a Maker Space. Admissions Open! 15 co-curricular clubs & activities to encourage exploration in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math). Early morning drop-off at 7:30 am with an optional breakfast. After school program available until 6:00pm.
Apply Now : For children entering grades 1 - 8, families can submit an admissions application in one of three ways
01
Apply online at ApplyCatholicSchoolsNY.org
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Apply by phone at 646-794-2885 from 9AM-5PM, Mon. - Fri.
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Apply in person at Sacred Heart of Jesus School.
456 West 52nd Street New York, New York 10019 | 212-246-4784 Ms. Laura Fitzgerald, Principal | www.shjsnyc.org
BigAppleParent 59
OPEN HOUSES 2017 Breakaway Hoops
646-776-2021 x0 Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm breakawayhoops.com info@breakawayhoops.com Join us for an open house at the Dempsey Center, 127 W. 127th St., Feb. 4, 18, and March 4 from 12-1:30pm, and April 8 or May 13 at City College, West 137th and Convent Avenue, from 11am12:30pm. RSVP online: breakawayhoops. leagueapps.com/events/125187-2017summer-camp--open-house.
Center For Architecture
536 LaGuardia Place 212-358-6133 cfafoundation.org; info@cfafoundation.org Attend a Summer@theCenter Info. Session to see our classes in action and learn more about a typical week at camp. Feb. 23, March 30, or April 13 from 3-4pm. RSVP at cfafoundation.org/events.
Downtown Day Camp
120 Warren St. 212-766-1104 x1250 downtowndaycamps.com info@downtowndaycamps.com Join us for an open house on Feb. 1 or March 1.
École Internationale de New York (EINY)
111 E. 22nd St. 646-410-2238 einy.org Open house dates coming up in February and March 2017. To schedule a tour, please visit einy.org/admissions/school-tours.
Garden School
33-16 79th St., Jackson Heights, Queens 718-335-6363 gardenschool.org We welcome you to our open houses, held every Wednesday at 9am. No RSVP required and your child is welcome to attend as well.
The Ideal School of Manhattan
Upper West Side 212-769-1699 theidealschool.org; dbyrnes@idealschool.org Come visit us for an open house at our lower school (kindergarten-fifth grades) on Tuesdays, Feb. 7 and 14 at 10am, and our upper school (sixth to 12th grades) at 11am.
International Ivy
Office mailing address: 61Maple St., #636, Summit, NJ 908-899-1338 iisummer.com; lily@ivyprograms.com Visit our open house at Caedmon School, 416 E. 80th St., (First and York avenues), Sunday, Feb. 12 from 12-3pm. Tour the fa-
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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
cilities, enjoy fun activities including racing robots, and Minecraft. Meet our teachers and counselors.
Jeff Lake Camp
38 Jefferson Lake Road, Stanhope, NJ 973-347-1230 jefflakecamp.com; jamie@jefflakecamp.com Jeff Lake Camp (jefflakecamp.com) offers an exciting, creative summer day camp experience. Join us for our open houses at the camp on Feb. 12 and March 12 from 122pm, and on Jan. 29 from 1-3pm at Smarter Toddler, 101 John St., Manhattan.
La Scuola D’Italia Guglielmo Marconi
12 E. 96th St. 212-369-3290 New Location opening soon: 432 W. 58th St. lascuoladitalia.org admissions@lascuoladitalia.org La Scuola cordially invites you to attend the upcoming open houses on Feb. 16 and March 9 from 5-7pm.
Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan
Oasis in Central Park 718-596-4900 oasischildren.com centralpark@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session for Oasis Central Park (32 W. 92nd St.) on Feb. 15, March 15, April 12 and 26, May 10 and 17, and June 6 and 20 from 6:30-8pm at P.S. 84.
Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan
Oasis Downtown Stacie Soto, camp director 718-596-4900 oasischildren.com downtown@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session for Oasis Downtown at P.S. 110, 285 Delancey St., on Feb. 8, March 16, April 5 and 27, May 11 and 24, and June 7 and 15 from 6:30-8pm.
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FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE START YOUR CHILD PLAYING PIANO Responsive teacher for all levels. Masters/Music 25 yrs. experience. Fun pre-piano activities for tots. Creative song-writing workshops! East Village Studio or your home. Affordable.
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To advertise call 212-315-0800 or email nympads@davlermedia.com
Portledge Summer Adventures Portledge School
355 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley 516-750-3104 portledge.org/summeradventures mworth@portledge.org Join us Saturday, Feb. 25 from 11am-1pm for an open house. Sample activities, meet teachers, and tour campus. For more information, contact mworth@portledge.org.
Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts
185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.com Young artists flourish at Usdan. Be part of a Usdan visit and information session: Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, and May 7 from 11am-2pm.
Need to plan the perfect party? FIND venues, entertainers, suppliers, and other ideas to create the ideal party in our online Parent Resources Directory.
NYMetroParents.com
AD INDEX
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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS
Oasis Children Services.........................31
University Settlement - Early Childcare....22
PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING
Jodi’s Gym..............................................23
Quad Manhattan (The)...........................52
Young Child Expo...................................58
Abrons Arts Center.................................47 Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens.......55
Sew Ho...................................................47 BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES Big Apple Parent Party Planner..............60 Chelsea Piers......................................... 11 Construction Kids...................................59 Galli Theater...........................................43 Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum.......3 Jodi’s Gym .............................................23 Little Gym ..............................................45 Sew Ho...................................................47 CAMPS 92nd St Y................................................23 Abrons Arts Center.................................47 Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens.......55 All My Children Day Care.......................55 Animal Camp Jamaica............................29 Asphalt Green.........................................43 Atlantic Acting School.............................53 Ballet Academy East...............................49 British International School of New York.... 43 Broadway Dance Center..........................9 Camp Clio...............................................47 Camp Henry...........................................51 Camp SAY..............................................57 Center for Architecture............................53 Children’s Museum of the Arts................23 Construction Kids...................................59 Cub Creek Science Camp......................52 Downtown Day Camp.............................41 Dwight Summer Day Camp....................33 Ecole Internationale de New York...........47 ESF Summer Camps..............................27 Evolution Enrichment Center..................31 Future Stars............................................53 Garden School........................................51 Gate Hill Day Camp................................47 International Ivy......................................33 Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum.......3 JCC of Manhattan...................................37
Sportime.................................................55
EDUCATION
Atlantic Acting School.............................53
Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts............2
All My Children Day Care.......................55
Galli Theater...........................................43
York Theatre...........................................57
Animal Camp Jamaica............................29
New 42nd Street.....................................21
Book Nook..............................................57
Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts............2 York Theatre...........................................57
CHILD CARE/DAY CARE
British International School of New York.... 43
All My Children Day Care.......................55
Center for Architecture............................53
Book Nook..............................................57
Collina Italiana........................................49
Evolution Enrichment Center..................31
Cub Creek Science Camp......................52
Garden School........................................51
EBL Coaching.........................................25
RESEARCH
Ecole Internationale de New York...........47
Animal Camp Jamaica............................29
Einstein Blueprint....................................17
Cub Creek Science Camp......................52
Mommybites Nanny Board.....................34 University Settlement - Early Childcare...... 22 CLASSES Abrons Arts Center.................................47 Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens.......55 Atlantic Acting School.............................53 Ballet Academy East...............................49 Book Nook..............................................57 British International School of New York.... 43 Broadway Dance Center..........................9 Center for Architecture............................53 Chelsea Piers......................................... 11
RELIGIOUS
Sacred Heart of Jesus ...........................59
Evolution Enrichment Center..................31 Garden School........................................51
RESTAURANT / FOOD SERVICES
Hebrew Public Charter Schools..............10
Voila Chocolat.........................................57
International Ivy......................................33 Laurel Project.........................................53 Sacred Heart of Jesus ...........................59
RETAIL
Voila Chocolat.........................................57
Success Academy..................................15
SPECIAL EVENTS
University Settlement - Early Childcare...... 22
New York Road Runners Club................58 Tribeca Performing Arts Center..............14
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT /
Young Child Expo...................................58
EVENTS / OUTINGS
Children’s Museum of the Arts................23
Children’s Museum of the Arts................23
Collina Italiana........................................49
Inn at East Hill Farm (The).....................58
Camp SAY..............................................57
Construction Kids...................................59
Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum.......3
Quad Manhattan (The)...........................52
Downtown Day Camp.............................41
Ski Butternut...........................................16
Young Child Expo...................................58
Ecole Internationale de New York...........47
Tribeca Performing Arts Center..............14
Huddle Up NYC......................................55 International Ivy......................................33
FAMILY TRAVEL
Kumon North America..............................7
Inn at East Hill Farm (The).....................58
Sew Ho...................................................47 Sportime.................................................55
FITNESS
DANCE
Chelsea Piers......................................... 11
Ballet Academy East...............................49
Huddle Up NYC......................................55
Broadway Dance Center..........................9
New York Road Runners Club................58
Battery Park City Authority ...............57, 59
Chelsea Piers......................................... 11 Laurel Project.........................................53
Jeff Lake Camp......................................13
DEVELOPMENTAL
SPECIAL NEEDS
SPORTS
Camp Henry...........................................51 Downtown Day Camp.............................41 ESF Summer Camps..............................27 Future Stars............................................53 Huddle Up NYC......................................55 New York Road Runners Club................58 Sportime.................................................55 THEATER Galli Theater...........................................43
HEALTH
New 42nd Street.....................................21
Battery Park City Authority ...............57, 59
Tribeca Performing Arts Center..............14
Fidelis Care New York..............................5
Jodi’s Gym .............................................23
Camp SAY..............................................57
Launch Math...........................................64
EBL Coaching.........................................25
MUSIC
EBL Coaching.........................................25
Laurel Project.........................................53
Einstein Blueprint....................................17
Battery Park City Authority ...............57, 59
Einstein Blueprint....................................17
Little Gym ..............................................45
Quad Manhattan (The)...........................52
Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts............2
Kumon North America..............................7
TUTORS
BigAppleParent 61
VOICES
Pregnant Pause
››
Why I hated all nine months of pregnancy By Karen J. Bannan
I
am obsessed with all things related to pregnancy. I always have been. I read trashy-but-fun celebrity baby bump gossip. I quiz my friends about their impending childbirth. I get misty-eyed when I hear about a new baby or a new pregnancy. So you’d think, because I have babies on the brain, that I loved it when I was actually pregnant myself. You’d be wrong. I hated every one of those 40 weeks. With all my being. From the moment I found out until the moment I delivered, I obsessed about not being pregnant. I was angry. I was depressed. Actually, I was more than depressed. When I found out I was carrying Big Girl, who was a planned pregnancy, I literally went off the deep end. My life was over. I would be huge. I would lose my career. I would lose myself. I was so anxious, sad, and ambivalent about being pregnant that I ended up on a therapist’s couch for the final six months of my pregnancy. Of course, I felt guilty for having these terrible feelings, so that only made me feel worse. And as soon as my baby was delivered? I fell in love with her, and with being a mom. My midwife and my therapist were in agreement with their diagnosis. It—antepartum depression—is hormonal, and my experience was not that uncommon. Between 10 and 20 percent of women experience antepartum depression, but few talk about it. It’s often a precursor to postpartum depression, too. I was lucky. I was pretty much cured once that little redhead came out of me. But I was thrown back into the chasm when I got pregnant again. At the time, Big Girl was only 18 months old. I went home numb from the sonogram holding a grainy picture of the baby. Again, the symptoms set in. I found myself stomping and crying around the house, saying I was ruining Big Girl’s life by bringing another baby into the picture so soon. Then, at 13 weeks, I miscarried. The guilt was overwhelming then. I felt like I wished that baby away. We tried for several years to get pregnant again, even though I
knew I was almost guaranteed to suffer the same symptoms. And we were blessed with my miracle baby—Little Girl—after we gave up trying. Yes, I went through the same horrific nightmare. This time it was even worse because I was told that I could literally die from carrying her. So I felt all the same emotional symptoms, but I also had another feeling: Intense guilt about putting myself at risk. I didn’t want to leave Big Girl without a mother. And then the moment I went into labor I could hardly wait to meet my new baby. I look back at the delivery photos and can’t help but smile. I have never seen such pure love, exhilaration, and emotion on anyone’s face. It’s completely obvious how in love and excited I was to become a mom. Becoming a mother—from the first moment you find out you’re pregnant to the first late night feeding—is supposed to be such a natural thing. We’re programmed by magazine covers and other women to think pregnancy is wonderful, and mothering is instinctive. Women glow when they are pregnant, right? They dream about it like I did—and still do. They’re supposed to feel blessed when it happens. And yet that is not the experience of many people. Even those who aren’t afflicted with antepartum depression may, for example, hate the third trimester with all its aches and pains. They might pine for the day when their bodies are their own again. And that’s okay. That may be the most natural thing for them. It seems like such a sin to be depressed about such a miracle. At least that is how I saw it. But it’s a fact of life. It’s okay to hate being pregnant, and still love the outcome. Are you feeling sad about being pregnant? Talk it over with your doctor. She can shed light on any misconceptions you might have about your pregnancy or delivery. If you’re clinically depressed, she can refer you to a therapist who specializes in prenatal care. No matter what, though, don’t suffer silently. Broach the subject with other moms and moms-to-be. Chances are, they’ve felt the same way at one point during their pregnancy.
Karen J. Bannan is a Long Island writer who blogs at naturalaspossiblemom.com, where this first appeared.
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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com
BAR/BAT MITZVAHS ❖ SWEET SIXTEENS ❖ WEDDINGS
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