Big Apple Parent September 2016

BigAppleParent SEPTEMBER 2016

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Calm the Cafeteria Chaos

Kids can eat healthy and socialize, too.

PLUS: Your Back-to-School Resource Guide

All About Gap Years

Why many grads are waiting before starting college

Should Kids Play Contact Sports?

Weighing the risk of concussions

WHERE TO PICK APPLES

•

MEDICAL MARIJUANA FOR SICK KIDS?

When your little angel thinks he’s a daredevil...

Better have a good pediatrician.

Make sure your kids are covered.

Contact Affinity Health Plan at 866.247.5678 to obtain more information about Child Health Plus, a free or low-cost health insurance program sponsored by New York State for kids under the age of 19.

To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777.

AffinityPlan.org/CHP 2

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

BigAppleParent

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NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

28

September 2016 ›› Features 18 Cute Kids Meet the winner of our cover contest, and the rest of the finalists 20 Filling the Gap Taking a year off between high school and college can set teens up for a lifetime of success 24 Calming the Chaos of the Cafeteria How to get kids to eat a healthy lunch while chatting with friends 28 Should Your Kid Play Contact Sports?

New policies are being put into place to reduce the risk of concussions in children

24

64 Healing Powers What it’s like to provide your child with medical marijuana in New York

48

20

Connections 6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 14 Voices: Learning to let go 16 NYMP Q&A: Walker Lamond shares ‘pearls of wisdom’ for fatherhood

Fun & Activities 12 Media Matters: Screen-Time Recommendations 13 DIY Corner: Sail boat for imaginary play 32 Outing: New York City Fire Museum 35 Family Activities Calendar 48 Where-To Guide: Pick Your Own Apples

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

Directories

35

50 60 68 69 70

Back-to-School Resources Private Schools Open Houses Party Planner and Family Resource Guide Advertisers’ Index

Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com) Clothing provided

by Appaman (appaman.com)

››

ON THE COVER ›› 20 All About Gap Years 24 Calm the Cafeteria Chaos 28 Should Kids Play Contact Sports

facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

48 Where to Pick Apples

64 Medical Marijuana for Sick Kids?

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

Amazing is having seven lives before your first birthday.

When Leni was just three months old, she became seriously ill. Her pediatrician didn’t know why — but she knew who would. The pediatric specialists at NewYork-Presbyterian diagnosed Leni with a rare form of leukemia — but that was just the beginning. Before Leni was discharged, she’d undergone seven life-saving procedures, including chemotherapy, a liver transplant, and gall bladder surgery. In all, it took 10 doctors, 20 nurses, and two NewYork-Presbyterian hospitals to get Leni where she is today: a happy, healthy three-year-old. nyp.org/kids

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SEPTEMBER 2016 • Vol.31 • No.9

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITOR’S NOTE

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

New Beginnings, Emotional Transitions

L

ike many parents, I feel unprepared for a new school year to begin, and less than eager to restart the cycle of lunch prep and hustling out the door every morning. Really, though, this feeling is less about the hassle and more about being forced to confront the very clear fact that my babies are no longer babies. Our youngest, not yet out of diapers and still sleeping in a crib, begins nursery school this month, while my middle daughter will be in kindergarten, starting the transition away from play-based learning to more traditional schooling. And my oldest, still so young in my mind, starts fourth grade, when, I am told, the work gets more intense and the pace quicker. Sunrise, sunset, indeed; those years certainly do swiftly fly.

And so I look to parents who have older kids with a mix of awe and curiosity. How do we encourage our not-so-little ones to grow into independent people and not inadvertently stand in their way? Dana Greenberg offers her own perspective on letting go of her middle-school-age daughter and teaching her to navigate NYC streets by herself (p. 14). Meanwhile, any of you whose kids are entering their senior year of high school are contemplating a whole new level of letting go.

Decisions about next year will likely consume much of your attention the next few months. But even as today’s seniors apply to and choose their colleges, many will be opting to delay actually starting that school for one year. Find out why so many grads are taking a so-called gap year, what they’re doing during that time—and why many experts are encouraging it (p. 20).

Meanwhile, my family—and many of yours, I am sure—will be focused on more mundane matters, such as the aforementioned lunch prep. Despite the care I give to my kids’ meals, I’ve found pieces of my daughters’ lunches coming home uneaten, not because they weren’t hungry, but because they didn’t have time to finish. Besides eating, lunch provides valuable, much-needed social time for our kids, and we’ve got tips on how to ensure your kids can eat and gab during their fleeting cafeteria moments (p. 24).

Lastly, we tackle a difficult, potentially controversial topic. Here in New York, medicinal cannabis—marijuana—has been legal since the start of 2016, and among the patients to whom it’s been prescribed are some children who suffer from debilitating illnesses. We speak with one mom whose daughter’s quality of life has vastly improved because of the availability of medicinal marijuana. And we explain the debate among experts about whether it’s a good idea to treat ill kids with it (p. 64).

May none of us need such remedies, and may everyone have a happy and smooth start to the 2016-2017 school year!

DEPUTY EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling ASSISTANT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Karen Demeter (Fairfield, Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERNS: Megan Bailey, Lauren Diaz, Melissa Wickes

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 Randi Shulman, Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Ellen Klein, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Fairfield Parent 914-397-0200 Judy Samuels, Randi Shulman 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 TRAFFIC MANAGERS: Alexis Brower, Shaquon Cates

PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Anthony Diaz CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jiyon Son DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds GRAPHIC ARTIST: Oscar Osario

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

Michael Kress Editorial Director

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Barbara Byrd

Davler Media Group CEO: David L. Miller

A NYMetroParents Event

Join Us for a Day of Fun! You are invinted to a day of kid-focused fun, during which parents can accomplish all their planning for the year ahead. LI FamFest will be held Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10am-3pm at Long Island University’s Pratt Recreational Center, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville, Long Island.

While parents explore more than 50 exhibitors and meet experts, their kids will be able to participate in activities such as a live reptile and wildlife show, face painting and balloon making, hip-hop dance movement, a rope obstacle course, candy making, and much more.

Visit lifamfest.com for more information and to register!

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 nymetroparents.com fairfieldparent.com davlermedia.com nybarbatmitzvah.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 © 2015, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

“GOING TO SCHOOL HAS NEVER

BEEN THIS MUCH

FUN!

”

DAILY NEWS

MUSIC BY ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER SchoolOfRockTheMusical.com | WINTER GARDEN THEATRE | 50TH & BROADWAY ORIGINAL CAST RECORDING AVAILABLE ON WARNER BROS. RECORDS PHOTOS BY MARK SELIGER © 2015 RUG LTD

BigAppleParent

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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

nymetroparents.com/np-bap

An infant experiences The Nurture Center at Twin Parks

Courtesy Licenders

Who: Twin Parks Montessori Schools What’s New: The Nurture Center for infants and toddlers at which caregivers, with their children, will learn about child development and developmentally appropriate activities they can practice at home.

The program will consist of six weekly 90-minute classes, beginning in early October, which will focus on topics such as nutrition, speech, sensory development, and gross and fine motor skills.

The Nurture Center also strives to provide networking opportunities for new parents, especially those who have just moved to the area and lack a support system.

Want More Info: 202 Riverside Drive, Upper West Side; 212-665-1600; thenurturecenter.nyc

Courtesy Twin Parks Montessori Schools

Montessori School to Open Center for Infants and Toddlers

Licenders Now Offering Flat-Rate Packages Who: Licenders What’s New: A flat-rate package in which children who have lice are provided a 1-hour treatment for $249.

The treatment uses the patented Air Alle device, which is FDA cleared to kill lice and eggs in one treatment.

Licenders uses 100-percent all-natural products and staff members are fully credentialed lice clinicians.

Mention this article for a free screening in the Manhattan salons. Call to make an appointment. Bring your school staff ID to receive a 25-percent discount on your treatment.

Want More Info: 227 E. 81st St., Upper East Side and 939 Eighth Ave., Suite 302, Midtown; 888-658-5442; licenders.com Adie Horowitz, owner of Licenders

Who: Elizabeth England High School & College Application Coach What’s New: College Essay Boot Camp and Brainstorm sessions to start this fall.

In the five-week, five-day, or weekend, virtual 1-on-1 boot camp, Elizabeth England works with seniors on identifying a compelling Common Application Essay topic that is not already present in other application materials. She encourages students to find this topic through practiced responses and essay openers and then produce a draft by the end of the program.

Additionally, England helps high school students on the essay drills for their respective standardized tests.

Want More Info: 917-863-2424; eecollegecoach.com

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy EE College Coach

College Application Coach to Offer Fall Program for College Essay

Elizabeth England (left) coaches one of her students

Now Enrolling for Fall Semester

Programs for kids 4 months through 12 years ďŹ lled with movement, music, learning and laughter.

The Little Gym of Upper West Side www.TLGUpperWestSideNY.com 212-799-1225

The Little Gym of Upper East Side www.TLGUpperEastSideNY.com 212-787-1124

The Little Gym of Scarsdale www.TLGScarsdaleNY.com 914-722-0072

The Little Gym of Waldwick TLGWaldwickNJ@thelittlegym.com 201-445-4444

.!*0ÄĽ $%( Ĺ? ( //!/Ĺ?Ä‘Ĺ? .!ÄĄ Ĺ? 5)* /0% /Ĺ?Ä‘Ĺ? . !Ĺ? $++(Ĺ? 5)* /0% /Ĺ?Ä‘Ĺ? * !Ĺ?Ä‘Ĺ? . 0! ,+.0/Ĺ? '%((/Ĺ?Ä‘Ĺ? 3!/+)!Ĺ? %.0$ 5Ĺ? /$!/Ĺ?Ä‘Ĺ? .!*0/ÄšĹ? 1.2%2 (Ĺ? %#$0/Ĺ?Ä‘Ĺ? ),/ BigAppleParent

9

UOTABLES The days are hot, hot, hot; and the house is stale and messy. I am often reminded in its state something my neighbor said to me one afternoon, after I apologized for our home’s condition: ‘You are living. That’s what this is.’

—NYC mom Latonya Yvette in a post entitled “Motherhood Right Now” on her blog blog.latonyayvette.com

in an instagram He couldn’t wait to get on and he claimed the frog right away. His eyes were big and he kept throwing his head back and looking up at the lights, bopping his head to the carrousel music. Then as soon as he got off he asked if there was a roller coaster in the park he could ride next. #boys (Posted by Manhattan mom @lilliesandleon, aka Nicole Gonzalez, who blogs at lilliesandleon.com)

PARENTING AFRICAN-AMERICAN BOYS “I see my fellow black moms hurting. I’m hurting. I see my non-black friends hurting. And I see those who are keeping silent.”

in an instagram Hidden gem in Long Island—Hempstead State Park for a lazy Sunday fishing adventure #blogger #photography

—Long Island mom Kimberly Thomas, who runs the blog valleystreammom.com in an essay on entitled “At What Age Will My Son Become a Threat?” Read it all at nymetroparents. com/kimberly-thomas

(Posted by @thatsbetsyv, a NYC mom who blogs at betsy-v.com)

“It’s okay to be scared. If we aren’t terrified about some of the things we need to do as we learn how to be a parent, we aren’t parenting well enough.”

—Manhattan dad Pete Cataldo, who runs the website daddymindtricks.com, in a Huffington Post article entitled “5 Thoughts On The First Year Of Fatherhood”

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: FREE FUN: Visit museums and zoos without paying (nymetroparents.com/free) FAIRS & FESTIVALS: Where to go in the late summer and fall (nymetroparents.com/fairs) BEAM THEM UP: All about the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum’s interactive Star Trek exhibit (nymetroparents.com/star-trek) FALL GUIDE: How to make the most of autumn (nymetroparents.com/fall-guide)

G I B

E S R E H M T A R E A T R S D

Youth Classes Begin Sept. 8.

REGISTER TODAY!

212.336.6520 chelseapiers.com/fh BAP Full FH 9-16.indd 1

11 BigAppleParent 8/17/16 12:39 PM

Media Matters: TV

Sesame Studios (YouTube)

Recommended Age: 3+ H H H H

Screen-Time Recommendations

These delightful YouTube shorts have quality content for tots.

Elena of Avalor (Disney Junior)

Recommended Age: 5+ H H H H

The spunky Latina-inspired princess is an excellent role model.

The Loud House (Nickelodeon)

Recommended Age: 6+ H H H H

This funny commentary on big-family dynamics has kind messages.

The Deep (Netflix)

Recommended Age: 7+ H H H H

This fantastic family-focused adventure explores the vast ocean.

In Theaters Sept. 23: Storks

Parents need to know that Storks takes a common explanation for where babies come from and expands it into a feature-length animated film. But in this universe, storks are getting out of the baby-delivery business and moving into package delivery for a large internet retailer. Junior (voiced

by Andy Samberg) is all set to receive a huge promotion from the CEO of Stork Mountain (Kelsey Grammar), when he accidentally turns on the Baby Making Machine to produce a single baby girl.

With the help of his human friend, Tulip (Katie Crown), Junior must get rid of baby—maybe by delivering her to the boy who wrote to him about wanting a new brother or sister?—before his job ends up in jeopardy. Given the subject matter, expect some innuendo that could go over younger kids’ heads.

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

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

Your Children Should be 100% "Privately Tutored" Unlock Your Kids' Full Potential!

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, self-teaching, 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”).

For a FREE CONSULTATION on how you can hyper-accelerate your kids' education, text GENIUS to 44222, call 888-639-5512, or email Dan@EinsteinBlueprint.com *Remember, schools fail the smartest and most talented children...far more than any others.* 12

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

DIY CORNER IMAGINARY PLAY

Hello, Sailor!

After a fresh batch of laundry is fluffed and folded, take your basket to the high seas.

What you’ll need: • 1 40-inch stick or dowel • 1 18-inch stick or dowel • Thin cotton rope • 1 24-by-18-inch piece of fabric or bed sheet • Scissors • Hot-glue gun (optional) • Fabric scraps • 1 laundry basket 1. To make the mast and the boom, cross the short stick perpendicularly over the long stick approximately 24 inches down from one end and wrap the joint, making figure eights back and forth around the sticks, with approximately 2 feet of cotton rope.

2. To make the sail, cut your piece of fabric in half diagonally. Place the right corner of the sail where the mast and the boom meet.

For a quick assembly, have an adult hot-glue the fabric edges to the mast and the boom, or tie your sail on: Use your scissors to poke holes every 3 inches along the two perpendicular edges of the fabric, approximately 1 inch in from the edge. Cut 4-inch

pieces of rope and thread them through the holes and around the sticks.

3. Cut an 80-inch piece of rope and then tie strips of fabric scraps you might have every 3-5 inches along the rope. Tie the rope to the top of the mast, and let it hang down.

4. Use rope to tie the mast to the side of the basket, securing it through the holes in at least two places.

Excerpted from Project Kid: Crafts That Go! by Amanda Kingloff (Artisan Books). Copyright © 2016. Photographs by Alexandra Grablewski and Amanda Kingloff

Introducing a new, LOW-COST health plan for eligible individuals!

The Essential Plan

Offered by Fidelis Care and available through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace

• Monthly premiums are either $0 or $20 a month based on income

Comprehensive Coverage:

• Low out-of-pocket costs with no deductible the plan starts paying for your health care right away

Doctor visits (including specialists), lab tests and X-rays, hospital care, prescription drugs, and more.

• Free preventive care like checkups and screenings

Doctors and Hospitals Close to Home:

Enroll ALL YEAR LONG!

Questions? Call 1-888-FIDELIS for more information or to meet with a Fidelis Care Health Benefit Representative.

1-888-FIDELIS | fideliscare.org

Choose your doctor from Fidelis Care’s extensive provider network, which you can search on fideliscare.org

How do I Qualify?

Call Fidelis Care to learn more!

(1-888-343-3547) •

To learn more about applying for health insurance including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health, the Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

BigAppleParent 13

VOICES

Out on Her Own ›› How I learned to let go of my middle schooler, a little bit at a time By Dana Greenberg

I

cannot believe that my little girl is starting eighth grade, her final year of middle school. Where has the time gone? The days when I would tag along on the walk to school in the mornings are just about over. I may have squeezed my last “I’ll take you and your friends for pizza” out of her. I can only hope I have done my job and prepared her well for the road on which we are now embarking.

When my daughter was going into sixth grade, just starting middle school, parents of older children in New York City told me that many kids start traveling alone, without an adult, sometime during the middle school years. The thought of this absolutely terrified me: the strangers, the cars, the bikers. I knew I had to start preparing her to navigate the streets without me by her side.

In the beginning of sixth grade I made a very conscious effort to start making her aware of everything I could think of on the route to school—and even scare her a little bit. We discussed which streets had turning signals, what side of the street the liquor store is on, how to wait until the bikers stop before crossing the street, and so much more. I did this over and over and over again for months, just like a broken record. Finally it was time to let her guide the way. “Tell me what to do, when to cross, where to stand,” I told her. By the end of the sixth grade, she was walking home from school without an adult.

As we moved to seventh grade, I suspected she would have even more of a zest for independence. To that point, she’d only gone to and from school by herself. Now she wanted to go to friends’ apartments, the movies, the frozen yogurt shop. How was I going to deal with this? I really needed to think about the next steps.

Since she was not necessarily going to be staying in our neighborhood, we talked about the choices of transportation in the city—buses, subways, Ubers. There are so many options, but we needed to figure out what would make us both feel safe and comfortable. I got her the Uber app for her phone, and I make

sure she always has a MetroCard with funds on it. We both agreed that walking should be her first choice if the distance is not too far. We talked about safe places she could duck into if she ever felt it was necessary for any reason at all, such as Starbucks, Duane Reade, or CVS, places with which she is familiar and are very easy to find. She assured me, “Mom, I can do this. I’ll be fine.” I must admit, her confidence was somewhat reassuring; however, deep down, I was dying just a little bit. She was still my little girl, and I would worry no matter what.

We did tons of talking and prepping. Then one day, it was time for her to go use all of her newfound knowledge and be a big kid with her friends. Even today, I still remind her before she leaves the house to make sure her phone is fully charged and that her tracker app is on. “No texting while walking, don’t stand too close to the curb, and be careful of those bikers,” I remind her as I watch her walk down the hall to the elevator. I typically get a cute smirk in return. As time goes on, I admit, it does get a little easier—but just a little easier—to watch her walk out the door.

As hard as it is to watch this independence sprouting right in front of my eyes, I have found an upside to all of this. I no longer have to take her everywhere. I don’t have to drag her brother out in the rain to pick her up from a friend’s apartment. I can even send her down to the supermarket to pick up a few things for me.

This independence thing might not be so bad after all!

As my city kid now starts her last year of middle school, I feel almost as confident as she does when she is out and about on her own or with her friends. I must remind myself that I have done my job and taught her to make smart choices. I can’t be with her every second, so I must trust that she has listened and paid attention along the way. She has come a long way since starting middle school. I will continue to let go, even while still trying to hold on to her, a little bit at a time.

Dana Greenberg is a mom of twins living in Manhattan. Dana’s site theautismclub.com was created as a way to connect moms who have kids with special needs, like her son Jack—who has autism—and offer them a space to tell their stories.

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Opening in New York in September 2017 Wetherby-Pembridge School will be located on the Upper East Side, in a superb building next to Central Park on East 96th Street.

The school will offer a bespoke curriculum model combining the rigorous British National Curriculum with New York’s

progressive student-centred teaching approach. Wetherby-Pembridge School is part of the prestigious Alpha Plus Group. It will bring to New York the rich traditions and academic excellence that are at the heart of its thriving UK schools.

Open House

5 October 7 2 r e b Octo

www.wetherby-pembridge.org

For further information on our Open House events or to register for a place please contact us on

info@wetherby-pembridge.org | 212-328-9529

Serving 3 months - 6 years of age (ALL MEALS INCLUDED)

www.preschoolofamerica.us | A Year-Round Program Mon-Fri 8:00am-6:00pm

Special Programs Piano class • Art class Dance class • Karate class Yoga class • Soccer class Foreign language class Competitive strategy & literacy based PRE-K CURRICULUM preparing children for KINDERGARTEN & BEYOND

Manhattan Schools 2109 Broadway @73rd St (212) 877-1388

46 Market St @Madison St (212) 346-9868

39 Eldridge St. @Canal St (212) 925-0998

345 W 42nd St. @8th Ave (212) 262-4545

1190 Park Ave @93rd St (212) 410-1100

101 West End Ave @64th St (212) 362-0135

2 South End Ave @W Thames (212) 786-1688

25 Market St @ Henry St (212) 577-2710

600 6th Avenue @18th St (212) 255-6911

1501 Lexington Ave @ 97th St 212-987- 3700

25 Tudor City Place @41st St (212) 681-4671

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Explore. Imagine. Create.

Cre ati ve Steps

Early Care + Education Center Our play-based & child-centered program offers: Low

staff-to-child ratio, with 3 teachers per classroom

Weekly

music, movement, and art enrichment programs

Flexible

full-day programs for children 12 months - 4 years

Easy

access to well-maintained, safe outdoor playgrounds

To lear n mo r e, co n tact us to s ch edule a to ur !

4 Washington Square Village 212.982.2273 creativesteps@universitysettlement.org WWW.UNIVERSITYSETTLEMENT.ORG/CREATIVESTEPS

New Location in the Financial District!

FALL SESSION STARTS SEPTEMBER 26TH

• Ages 2-8 Italian Language Program using song, stories, games and arts & crafts • Ages 2-5 -Morning drop off playgroup • Workshops in Italian • Italian Art Workshop • Tutoring Services 1556 Third Ave @ 87th, Suite 603, NY, NY • 212.427.7770

www.collinaitaliana.com • info@collinaitaliana.com 16

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

NYMP Q&A

Rules to Live By ››

By Bethany Braun

Walker Lamond’s first book, Rules for My Unborn Son was based on his blog of a similar name. He recently released a follow-up, Rules for My Newborn Daughter, in which he shares hilarious “pearls of wisdom” such as, “Don’t pawn your grandmother’s jewelry” and “Practice safe selfies.”

Do you have a favorite rule or piece of parenting advice? For you? Your kids? I think I come from the paint-inside-the-lines school of parenting. I tell my kids that if you’re the kind of person that respects dress codes and knows what the little fork is for, you’ll be given more liberty to be the life of the party. As a parent I just have to remind myself every day to be patient, kind, and silly. And not throw shoes.

Do your kids follow these rules? I’m lucky if they leave the house with shoes.

Have you experienced a difference in parenting boys vs. girls? Universally? No, I don’t think so. Kids learn from your example. Which is why I probably use these books more as manuals for being a better dad than I do as rulebooks for raising better kids.

That being said, my son is way more susceptible to bribes.

Do you think parents should collect their own sets of rules for their kids? Absolutely! These books were imagined as conversations with my own kids and are specific to my own experiences growing up. There’s plenty in there that some parents will disagree with, and I love it when readers give the rules their own spin or take to Twitter to tell me how wrong I am. I think writing down your own rules for your kids is a great way not just to keep your little angels in line, but also to pass down your own experiences and institutional knowledge about how to live a fun, fulfilling life.

How was writing the book for your daughter different than writing it for your son? When I started Rules for My Newborn Daughter, I did have a nagging concern that it may not be appropriate for a man to be doling out advice to a young woman. I mean if I wanted my daughter to grow into a strong, independent woman unafraid to challenge traditional power structures and gender stereotypes, handing her a book full of rules written by a man didn’t seem like the best way to start her journey.

But I think a dad has a right and a duty to tell his daughter what he expects of her. To share with her what he knows about life and how to make the best of it. And while I might not know even a fraction of what it takes to become an independent, intelligent, courteous, courageous, honest, adventurous, self-reliant, well-read, well-dressed, well-mannered young woman, I do know someone who does.

Thankfully, I married her.

BigAppleParent 17

Cute Kids!

››

Meet the winner of our 2016 cover contest, and take a look at all eight finalists.

F

rom April to June the staff here at NYMetroParents had the hard job of picking eight finalists from hundreds of adorable entries. Once we were able to narrow it down, the finalists traveled from all across the New York metro area to meet for a photo shoot at PhotoOp NYC. The finalists wore their best smiles and some seriously stylish clothes and had a blast shooting with the studio’s awesome photographers.

The kids did a great job posing for the camera, but at the end of the day it was 3-year-old Carter from Suffolk County who was selected as the Grand Prize Winner.

Carter and his family will enjoy a weekend trip to Great Wolf Lodge to celebrate his big win! Each finalist received a $25 gift card from Appaman, who also provided most of the clothes for the shoot, and a New York CityPASS ticket book. Plus, our fan favorite, Konstancja from Brooklyn, received a family fourpack of tickets to Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA. You’ll get to see more of these smiling cuties in the coming months.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this contest a success, especially our sponsor, Barbizon.

Carter

Age: 3 Hometown: Suffolk County

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

Genesis

Age: 8 Hometown: Fairfield County, CT

Ryan

Angelina

Age: 13 Hometown: Nassau County

Age: 6 Hometown: Manhattan

Lucas

Age: 5 Hometown: Queens

Emma

Age: 10 Hometown: Rockland County

Angelina C.

Age: 4 Hometown: Westchester County

Konstancja

Age: 7 Hometown: Brooklyn

FAN FAVORITE

Courtesy David Hamburger

Filling the Gap

››

Many high school graduates are opting to take a year “off” before starting college. But far from doing nothing, they are participating in programs and gaining experiences that set them up for success in college and provide a lifetime of benefits. By Lauren Diaz New York City native and Columbia University graduate David Hamburger (left) volunteered for a nonprofit called Pencils of Promise during his gap year. He traveled on behalf of the organization to visit rural schools in northern Laos.

W

hen Malia Obama announced her decision to defer her acceptance to Harvard University for a year, she became the poster child for a growing trend. The Associated Press reports that Malia is one of an estimated 30,000-40,000 students each year who choose to take an academic break before attending college—a number that is steadily rising, according to the American Gap Association, which tracks this data. After spending 13 years in the educational system, many students are now electing to take a year off from school to do a variety of activities and programs—known as a gap year—and are coming back to start college with a new perspective and maturity.

There are many options for those looking for a rewarding, meaningful gap year, including travel or study abroad and volunteering or working here in the United States in virtually any setting imaginable. When many of us imagine gap years, we tend to think of expensive programs abroad or at sea, but many teens opt for volunteering or working instead. Students can either invest money in a program or spend the time gaining work experience and saving money for tuition. When it comes to managing college applications, they can either apply to college and defer matriculating for a year, or wait to apply during their gap year after mulling it over. There is something formative out there for every student.

David Hamburger, a New York City native and Dalton School alumnus, deferred his 2011 admission to The University of Chicago in order to devote himself to a year of service work for 20

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

multiple organizations. Hamburger volunteered at Habitat for Humanity during the fall while also working for an educational development nonprofit called Pencils of Promise. As a volunteer at the relatively new organization, Hamburger was given a great amount of responsibility, which led to an internship with its International Programs team in the spring of his gap year. At 18, Hamburger was responsible for spearheading an overhaul of Pencils of Promise’s data storage, supervising four junior interns, and training new hires. After applying to Columbia University during the fall of his gap year, Hamburger was admitted for the fall semester of 2012. By 19, he entered Columbia with a level of real-world work experience practically unheard of for his age.

The Benefits of Taking a Gap Year

While gap years may be relatively new in the broader culture, they have long been a staple of Jewish education, with schools encouraging students to study in Israel for a year before heading to college. Dorothy Denburg, director of college counseling at Heschel High School, a Jewish day school in Manhattan, reports that approximately a third of her students chose to defer college last year. “There are so many options for different structured programs for them,” she says, adding that when she previously worked for a college, 90 percent of the students she saw taking a gap year were Jewish, and most of them had spent their year in a wide variety of programs based in Israel. The motivation, Denburg says, is to “spend a year in Israel but not necessarily in study”

and to “go to college with a year of maturity under your belt,” a sentiment that is quickly gaining ground among students and educators far beyond the Jewish community.

A huge benefit of taking a gap year is the life or work experience that comes with it. Contrary to some people’s misperceptions, “it is very often our strongest students who will choose to take a gap year”—not to improve anything specific academically but to foster their own “intellectual and personal growth,” notes Jessica Landis, a guidance counselor at King School, an independent school in Stamford, CT. That includes self-discovery, which can be achieved richly and deeply from gap-year experiences. “It’s so much better if you take time to get to know yourself in a different situation outside of the academic world,” since you “learn so much more about yourself when you’re actually participating as opposed to just sitting in a classroom learning,” says Susan Avery, a guidance counselor at Harvest Collegiate High School, a Manhattan public school.

Another, often vital reason to take a gap year is to take a breather. Thinking back to her time working at private schools, Avery says the “level of stress seen on children was astounding.” A gap year is “the single best thing a kid can do for themselves after spending 13 years in school.”

Hamburger agrees, adding that it is especially important for students dealing with a physical or mental illness. “One thing I observed at college is how difficult it can be for people that aren’t 100-percent [well] to make it through a semester,” he says, adding that “it paid dividends” for his peers who took time off as a “chance to recharge.”

Debunking the Case Against Gap Years

The low number of students taking gap years in years past can in some ways be attributed to societal pressures and common misconceptions. For many high school students, immediate college enrollment seems like the necessary next step in a strict path. There has been an ingrained fear of facing social ridicule and alienation, falling behind, and ultimately failing professionally as a result of taking a year off. Landis says she recognizes many students fear condemnation from their peers but countered that “once those students talk about what their plans are, what they’ll be doing with that time, I think a lot of students actually look back and say ‘Wow. I wish I had considered doing that a little bit more.’”

Students tend to fear being left behind, since most of their former classmates will be sophomores while they are in their first years, but “that’s ok,” Landis says. “You have done something equally valuable that will also have a really positive impact on your future.” Avery agrees, saying “there’s no such thing as graduating on time. People just want to know that you went to college.”

A huge misconception plaguing high school seniors is the notion that gap years are only for the affluent. “So is money a problem?”

Avery says, “Well, no, because you’re not spending. You’re not paying college tuition when you’re on a gap year.” There are certainly students who spend the year in programs for which they need to pay, Avery says, recalling a student who did a semester at sea. But money is not a prerequisite, and there are many tuitionfree ways to spend a productive gap year. For “kids who need to just stop the carousel of academics and jump off and go do something different,” Avery says, “there are always options.”

Hamburger personally found no disadvantages in his gap year, continued on next page ››

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

saying it was a “tremendous year of growth” that set him up for the “next four years and beyond.” “Legitimately, every activity I engaged in during my gap year continued at Columbia,” he says.

From his gap year Hamburger attained lifelong friends, a great mentor, the initiative to participate in a future study abroad program, and an established interest in international education.

He also considers his work at Pencils of Promise to be “among the most substantial and important work I’ve ever done in my professional life” and believes the experience ultimately led him to attaining his current postgraduate Fulbright-Nehru fellowship.

Formula for a Successful Gap Year

Hamburger argues that in order to have a successful gap year, a teenager must “be devoting him or herself to something he or she is interested in or cares about.” Keep yourself busy, and maintain good communication with your parents, he advises. While he thinks almost everyone would benefit from a gap year, he also believes those students who are able to take initiative, are struggling with an illness, have a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” or are lacking in maturity would glean the most from taking a year off, while those hoping to just take an unstructured vacation would not do as well.

Taking a gap year is a highly personal and complicated decision that can only be made by the student. The role of a parent is similar to that of the guidance counselor: listen, guide, and support.

Avery points out that we do not even know what Malia Obama is doing with her gap year yet, but “the fact that the Obamas are 100-percent behind their daughter taking an academic breather just truly makes my heart joyful because it sends such an important message that everybody needs to slow the heck down.”

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Calming the Chaos of the Cafeteria ›› Some children forgo eating at lunchtime to be social. Here’s how to get your kids to eat a healthy lunch while chatting with their friends. By Nimali Fernando, M.D., MPH, and Melanie Potock, M.A., CCC-SLP

C

hances are it’s been a while since you’ve ordered “hot lunch” in the school cafeteria. Whether you send a homepacked lunch with your child or they order lunch, eating in the cafeteria can be overwhelming at first. Coach Mel [Melanie Potock, M.A., CCC-SLP ] had a client who called it the “caféFEAR-ia” because the whole experience was a bit scary for him.

Imagine being a brand-new kindergartner, toting your sparkly new Disney princess lunch box down the school hallway, when you turn and enter utter chaos. Older kids tower over you as you cross the sea of tables and try to find where you are supposed to sit for the next 20 minutes. Irritating fluorescent lights flicker while children chatter, teachers clap loudly to insist on silence, and rebellious kids ignore the adult plea and pop potato chip bags open with a bang! Metal lunch boxes clang as hungry tykes unpack a multitude of tins, cartons, juice boxes, and squeezable thingamajigs. The display on the tables is like a giant fire sale.

Now picture the typical metal cafeteria table with benches made to fit the average fifth-grader. Your kindergartner’s feet are

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

dangling and there’s no backrest. She has to balance while her elbows hunch up practically to shoulder level in order to stabilize herself on the table edge, her little eyes barely able to see past the barrage of sandwich bags and containers spread before her. In an effort to ensure that their kids eat anything at all, well-meaning parents pack lunch boxes filled to the brim, typically with seven to eight different options.

She sits and tries to ignore the boy next to her who keeps elbowing her in the ribs as he turns to talk to his friend on the other side of her—and turns back to eat—and then turns back to his friend. By the time she gets out all the containers you’ve packed, plus the juice box straw finally unwrapped and poked hard enough that juice squirts her in the face, five minutes have gone by. She’s holding up her other hand to signal the teacher, “Can you please open this lid?” but there are three other kids who need help first.

Meanwhile, that nice girl who played with her at the craft table this morning wants to chat—and she just wants to make friends.

Maybe she’ll get a few containers open and swig down that juice, but now her mind is on recess. Here’s the biggest dilemma:

For most kids, their priority during that very quick lunch is to visit with their friends and get a few bites of food in in the process.

However, teachers and the parents have a different priority for lunchtime: They want kids to have a nutritious meal so they are well fueled and ready to learn in the afternoon.

Solutions to the Chaos

If your school cafeteria resembles the picture we’ve painted above, and you want to rest assured that your child gets a healthy lunch in her belly, here are six solutions to finding some calm in the chaos:

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Send one easy-open container plus a drink. Bento boxes are all the rage nowadays. For many families, there is just enough time to get lunches packed and to grab them on the way out the door in the morning. The solution is a one-piece bento with an easyopen lid. Bentos are not as overwhelming as a lunch box filled to the brim with individual plastic bags, containers, and drippy fruit cups with tricky foil lids. Our favorites are EasyLunchboxes (the best-selling lunch-box system on Amazon) and the Yumbox (yumboxlunch.com). Both offer easy-open lids and compartments that are just the right size for kids. The Yumbox can be ordered with different trays that fit inside the box itself. Our favorite tray has five compartments each marked with a food group: Protein, Vegetables, Fruit, Dairy, and Grains to ensure a balanced lunch every time you pack.

Pack “grab and gab” food. Cut fresh fruit, veggies, sandwiches, cheese, etc., small enough so that kids can grab a piece without having to look down, and continue to gab with their friends across the table. Using a cookie cutter to create food in a fun shape like a dinosaur keeps the eating on track for some kids. But for kids who tend to eat a sandwich and skip the other items, try cutting the sandwich into small pieces so the child alternates grabbing a variety of foods, much like a mini-smorgasbord. Remember, you don’t need to send a whole sandwich when sending half leaves room in little bellies for other key food groups.

Include a power-packed smoothie that you made the night before. Freeze it directly in a cup or Mason jar with a lid and be sure to include a wide straw. Wrap some rubber bands around the continued on next page ››

COACH MEL’S TIP: WHAT’S THE STAR OF YOUR CHILD’S LUNCH? As a speech-language pathologist, I teach the parents engaged in lunch-box dinners with their child to practice this little script: “I’ve got ____ in my lunch!” In all my years of sitting in school cafeterias and listening to young kids, it’s always the first thing they say to each other. It’s their traditional conversation starter, usually accompanied by them proudly holding up the celebrity food—the star of the lunch box. I can attest that I hear just as many kids enthusiastically say, “I have fruit today!” as “I have chips today!” Try for the veggies. It’s really OK—it’s just as cool to have vegetables cut up into stars or other fun shapes so they can announce, “I have CUCUMBER STARS today!” Better yet, get the kids involved packing the lunches and creating fun shapes so they can exclaim, “I made carrot triangles for lunch!”

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jar for added grip and to keep little hands from getting too chilly.

By the time your child opens her lunch, the smoothie will be the perfect consistency, plus it helps to keep the lunch cold.

Pack last night’s dinner for lunch. If your child has a favorite healthy dinner, find ways to pack it in his lunch the next day.

Use insulated containers to keep soups, stews, or pasta warm for lunchtime. Using leftovers can save time packing lunch in the morning, too.

Pack a waste-free lunch. A lunch-box system means that you won’t be throwing away plastic bags every day. Use brightly colored cloth napkins and stainless steel water bottles to make lunch even more fun. Use lunch packing as a chance to show kids that they help to reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Start weekly lunch-box dinners at home. For kids transitioning to school lunch, introduce once-a-week lunch-box dinners where the entire family pretends to eat in the school cafeteria. At the entrance to the kitchen or dining area, one parent stashes a large bin, just like the kids will find at school. Each member of the family has their own distinct lunch box thrown into the bin, along with a few “old” random empty lunch boxes, so kids can practice digging down to the bottom to find their own. Once everyone is seated at the table, the child can practice the fine motor skills of unzipping zippers, unfastening Velcro flaps, and opening up containers. Choose a lunch box that is easy to open and pack it with “grab and gab” food, just like you would in the cafeteria.

Once the meal is over, everyone latches their lunch box and puts it back in the bin, just like at school.

Phasing in New Foods

When packing lunch, parents pray that their child will “just eat something!” But at the end of the day, especially if the child is a picky eater, parents sigh as they open the lunch-box latch and see that lunch has barely been touched. What can a parent do at home to encourage kids to eat lunch, even when they eat only five to 15 different foods and are hesitant to try anything new?

Here are some tips to encourage young eaters to explore beyond their preferred foods: Begin with exposure. Kids may need to see a new food multiple times before they may even consider trying it. That means they need to see it at school, too. If you’re thinking, “But he won’t eat it, so why pack it?” remember that the first step is helping your hesitant eater get used to the presence of that food in his lunch box again and again. Food doesn’t have to be eaten to serve a purpose in food education, and it doesn’t have to be a large quantity of food when first introduced.

Give kids ownership in the lunch-packing process. All kids like predictability and being a part of the process. Ask them to help with choosing, preparing, and packing lunch items. They are more likely to enjoy food when they are involved.

Include a favorite, but just enough. Most of us eat our favorite foods first, so be sure to include your child’s preferred food, but not too much. Provide just enough so that you won’t be worried that they are starving, but not so much that the other lesspreferred choices don’t stand a chance.

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

No comments, please! When the lunch box comes home, resist the urge to unpack it immediately. Give everyone a chance to breathe, especially those kids with sensory challenges who have difficulty with transitions from one environment to another. When you eventually open it, don’t comment about the contents. Say nothing, positive or negative. For many kids, it creates too much focus on whether they ate or not. For now, just wash it out and set it on the counter for your child to pack again later that evening. If your child mentions the food or requests it again, that’s the time to respond with a positive comment. Be careful not to say things like, “See, I knew you would like it!” You may mean well, but a child will typically interpret that as “See, I was right and you weren’t.” Try stating something positive, such as, “Pomegranates are one of my favorites—I like how they crunch and squirt at the same time in my mouth!”

Make a lunch-packing roadmap. Skip the filler foods such as pretzels and chips and pack a balanced lunch by including items from all five food groups: proteins, grains, dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Use the chart below to keep you on track and have plenty of options that are frozen or shelf-stable in case you run out of fresh. A handful of frozen edamame or dried fruit can be a great stand-in for fresh vegetables or fruit in a pinch. Whether you have a selective eater or a “foodie” with a palate that rivals a Top Chef, have all the kids in your family create a packing map and be responsible for their own lunch packing. Kids can choose foods from each group while the parent provides the healthy food options and keeps the kitchen stocked! Remember, it starts with exposure and builds from there.

Fruit

Grain

Mixed dried fruit Raisins Grapes Berries Apple slices Melon balls Fruit and yogurt blend All-fruit leather

Whole grain bread Pasta Soba noodles Quinoa Pita bread Tortillas Brown rice Granola

Vegetable

Protein

Carrot sticks Celery sticks Edamame Sugar snap peas Sliced sweet peppers Cherry tomatoes Kale chips Broccoli Vegetable soup

Yogurt Lean meats Hummus Nut butters Sunflower butter Beans, bean salads Meatballs Cheese Eggs

Excerpt from Raising a Healthy, Happy Eater: A Stage-by-Stage Guide to Setting Your Child on the Path to Adventurous Eating, copyright © Nimali Fernando and Melanie Potock 2015. Reprinted by permission of the publisher, The Experiment. Available wherever books are sold. theexperimentpublishing.com.

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Should Your Kid Play Contact Sports? ››

As our understanding of concussions grows, policies are being put in place to keep young athletes safe. But some still wonder whether certain sports can ever be considered safe for kids. By Melissa Kagan

I

t’s a question more and more parents are asking these days: “Should I let my kid play football?” Or maybe it’s soccer, lacrosse, ice hockey, or some other contact sport. Their concern with these activities can be summed up in one word: concussions.

For most kids, playing sports is fun, social, and challenging. Sports are also an excellent way to teach teamwork, competitiveness, and responsibility, while helping kids grow stronger and stay fit. But at the same time, a growing body of research has focused on the dangers of concussions and head injuries in youth sports, and the conversation has escalated over the past few years. Lawsuits by former pro-football players with lingering health problems and Will Smith’s 2015 movie Concussion have brought the topic of sportsrelated head injuries into the spotlight.

In some ways, this extra attention is great for young athletes.

And yet, in other ways it’s holding them back, as some parents wonder whether contact sports are safe in any capacity.

When Can Kids Start Playing Again?

Discussion about the risk of sports-related brain injury leads to heightened awareness. Many families and coaches now better understand the signs and symptoms of concussions. They’re seeking care when necessary, taking precautions, and following the proper re28

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

turn-to-play guidelines (a set of criteria detailing when someone can return to the field after a concussion)—all positive developments.

Concerns over athletes returning to play too quickly have led legislators in almost all states to pass laws stating that no player may return to play the same day of getting a concussion and that the athlete must be cleared by an appropriate health care professional before she is allowed to return to play in games or practices. The laws typically also mandate that players, parents, and coaches receive education on the dangers of concussions and recognizing their signs and symptoms.

The return-to-play protocol is significant for athletes of all ages and competitive levels because the long-term effects of concussions in children can be considerable. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a six-step program, allowing approximately 24 hours for each step. If any symptoms return during this process, it’s a sign of incomplete recovery and the young athlete should wait an additional 24 hours before attempting that step again. Generally speaking, symptoms should improve within a week to 10 days, but a doctor should re-evaluate athletes with persistent symptoms.

“There’s a rare condition called ‘second’ impact in which a second concussion occurs before a first concussion has properly

healed,” according to Jay Selman, M.D., chief of neurosurgery and consultant to the Traumatic Bain Injury Unit at Blythedale Children’s Hospital in Valhalla. “This causes rapid and severe brain swelling and a vast majority of these cases end in death.”

The first step in the AAP’s protocol is for the child to rest—physically, as well as cognitively. “Relative cognitive rest involves minimizing potential cognitive stressors, such as schoolwork, but this also includes video games,” Dr. Selman says. “Modified school assignments shouldn’t result in your child playing Xbox all afternoon.”

After that, the steps call for the child to slowly and methodically return to activities.

New Policies

Another result of the public discussion about concussions is that Pop Warner, the country’s largest youth football organization, announced in May that it will ban kickoffs in games starting this fall, the latest attempt to reduce the risk of head blows that can lead to concussions.

The elimination of kickoffs will apply to the three youngest Pop Warner divisions, which include players ages 5-10. It will possibly expand to older kids in the near future, once the results of the change have been reviewed. Instead of kickoffs, the ball will be placed at the 35-yard-line at the beginning of each half and after each score. Pop Warner will also reduce the amount of contact time in practice in all age groups, to 25 percent from 33 percent.

Because the number of children who sustain concussions is on the rise, youth recreation programs and many school districts are responding with stricter policies to ensure safer play. For example last winter, the Westchester County Concussion Task Force unveiled a list of best practices for concussion management

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for high school and youth sports. The 10-point plan focuses on improving collaboration between school officials when treating head injuries. It also stresses the importance of parent education about concussions and how to identify symptoms. The task force’s goal is to get schools caught up on the latest, rapidly evolving science of head injury protocol and concussion treatment.

Many advocacy groups encourage parents to have their children evaluated before the playing season begins to establish a baseline measure of brain function. One such test, called the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT), evaluates memory, motor speed, and reaction time. Athletes take the test at the start of the season and periodically thereafter, and again if they’re injured. continued on next page ››

RETURN-TO-PLAY STEPS This is an example of a what a typical return-to-play plan looks like: 1. T he athlete must observe complete physical and cognitive rest while symptoms are present.

2. O nce the athlete has stopped showing any symptoms, he or she can progress to light aerobic activity.

3. P rovided symptoms don’t return, activity may increase to sportspecific exercises without head impact.

4. The athlete may advance to more complex, non-contact drills.

5. The athlete may advance to full-contact practice.

6. The athlete may advance to normal game play.

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The recent attention to the dangers of concussions has led some parents to say they are now paralyzed with fear and are choosing to keep their kids out of sports entirely. Lisa, a mother of two in Scarsdale, is relieved that neither of her boys has asked to play football. “I would be fine with flag football but I would be entirely opposed to tackle football,” she says.

“Although, my 13-year-old son, who, like many boys his age, has suffered from one concussion already from soccer. So now I’m rethinking soccer as well. I’m starting to question the safety of any sport at this point.”

There is a middle ground that some experts are advocating.

Instead of kids avoiding sports entirely, these advocates believe in setting a minimum age for when kids should be allowed to start playing contact sports. Bennet Omalu, M.D., a forensic pathologist and leading expert in the growing field of concussion research, wrote an op-ed piece last year for The New York Times saying that children should be prevented from playing football and other high-impact contact sports before the age of 18.

“Our children are minors who have not reached the age of consent,” Dr. Omalu wrote. “It is our moral duty as a society to protect the most vulnerable of us. The human brain becomes fully developed at about 18 to 25 years old. We should at least wait for our children to grow up, be provided with the information and education on the risk of play, and let them make their own decisions. No adult, not a parent or a coach, should be allowed to make this potentially life-altering decision for a child.”

Other experts in the field propose that tackle football, heading in soccer, and full-body checking in ice hockey not start until kids are 14, largely because their brains and bodies are still developing and are therefore more vulnerable to serious injury.

“Nothing magic happens when an athlete turns 14,” Dr. Selman says. “There are big 14-year-olds who develop earlier and then there are 14-year-olds who look like they are 10. But by the time teens are juniors or seniors in high school, the difference in size between the athletes isn’t quite as dramatic.”

When to Quit

There is no set number of concussions that determine when a young person should give up playing contact sports. The circumstances that surround each individual injury, such as how the injury occurred and the duration of symptoms, are very important and must be factored in when assessing an athlete’s risk for—and potential long-term consequences from—experiencing additional and potentially more serious concussions. The decision to quit certain sports is a decision best reached after a complete evaluation by your child’s primary care provider and consultation with a physician or neuropsychologist who specializes in treating sports concussions.

It’s not an easy decision to make. Ultimately, it is up to parents to make informed choices based on their individual circumstances about whether to let children play contact sports. And above all, it is critical for parents and coaches to arm themselves with proper concussion knowledge, the right equipment, good training, an understanding of the symptoms of a concussion, and a healthy attitude about sports should they let their kids participate.

Melissa Kagan is the former editor-in-chief of the now-defunct lifetimemoms.com.

She is currently a freelance writer whose work has been featured in Mommy Poppins, Westchester Magazine and Westchester Family. She lives in Pelham with her husband and two children.

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Open House: Thursday, November 17, 6:00 - 8:00pm 146 West 13th Street, New York, NY 10011 Tel: 212.242.7802

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Visit www.diller-quaile.org for a complete listing of Early Childhood, Instrumental & Vocal, Adult, and Community Programs for 2016-2017.

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BigAppleParent 31

OUTINGS: New York City Fire Museum

nymetroparents.com/outings

New York’s Bravest 1

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Courtesy New York City Fire Museum

Housed in a 1904 firehouse, this must-see museum tells the history of the FDNY. ›› By Melissa Wickes 3

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1 This 1912 American LaFrance Tractor-Steamer, a coal-fired steam engine drawn by a gasoline powered front-drive tractor, was dubbed “Old 93” upon its retirement in 1933 when it was then used as a parade vehicle. 2 The New York City Fire Museum is housed in the former quarters of Engine Company No. 30, a 1904 Beaux-Arts firehouse. 3 The Brooklyn Company Engine No. 8 is a steam engine pumper made by American LaFrance in 1901 and was drawn by three horses. 4 Framed documents and works of art illustrate firefighting in the volunteer period in the Romance of Firefighting exhibit. 5 This permanent memorial to the 343 firefighters lost on 9/11 was designed by Jude Amsel and is made of tiles with the names and images of each firefighter.

The New York City Fire Museum is the official museum of the Fire Department of the City of New York. Housed in the former quarters of Engine Company No. 30, the museum is a tribute to firefighting and takes visitors through the history of techniques, equipment, and more. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a fire truck—fun for kids to climb on and perfect for a photo op.

Permanent Exhibits

Firefighting on Parade displays beautifully crafted machines and artifacts used by volunteer firefighters who marched in the firefighter parades. Paintings and illustrations depicting volunteer firefighters at work are shown in Romance of Firefighting, which honors the venerable New Yorkers who risk their lives to keep the city safe.

Check out the evolution of the fire engine from the steam engine to the 32

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

motorized machine in Fire Apparatus. A crowd favorite is Tools and Uniforms, which shows how significantly firefighting gear has changed throughout the last 30 years, from breathing masks to protective garments to tools.

The 9/11 Memorial Room is the first permanent memorial recognizing the 343 members of the FDNY who sacrificed their lives on Sept. 11. The exhibit includes a black marble and tile memorial showing pictures of the firefighters who lost their lives, cases displaying tools used and items recovered, and a computer station at which visitors can browse profiles of the fallen.

Fire Safety Education Program

In collaboration with the FDNY, the museum operates a fire safety program, which teaches participants about fire prevention in homes and how to escape a fire. After classroom training, students go

through a simulated fire in a mock home environment. The simulation consists of a tour through four rooms and common fire hazards are explained. A bedroom is then filled with theatrical smoke and a firefighter teaches the children how to escape.

Remembering 9/11

The NYC Fire Museum will hold a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony on Sept. 11, at 1pm, which will be led by the FDNY commissioner, with songs and a speech made by the museum director.

Details

Address: 278 Spring St., Hudson Square Hours: Daily, 10am-5pm Admission: $8; $5 students, seniors, and children ages 2-12; free with ID: FDNY, NYPD, DSNY, PANYNJ, Active U.S. Military, and Merchant Marine For more information: 212-352-3117 or nycfiremuseum.org

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Concerned about Kindergarten?

Will your child get the attention they need in such a large class setting?

Will the fast-paced curriculum, homework and testing make them anxious?

Will they have ample time to play and the freedom to explore and enjoy nature?

At Blue Rock, we give children the time and space to explore the world around them in a warm and nurturing environment. The only progressive school in the Lower Hudson Valley,

Kindergarten Information Session and Play Day

Saturday, October 29, 10 am to 12pm. Children encouraged to attend!

Register by calling 845-535-3353 or at admissions@bluerockschool.org

Pine Street School

For kids who want to make their mark

Do you need a location for his 7th birthday party?

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OPEN HOUSES: September 29, October 17 & 27, November 10, December 15 from 5:30-7pm

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Find everything you need, faster at

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Medieval Festival (No. 4 on our list).

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SEPTEMBER CALENDAR

36 Editor’s Hot Tickets

44 Show Time!, On Screen

38 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!,

Fun Fairs & Festivals

45 Mini Musicians

40 Crafty Kids, Once Upon a Time 42 Smarty Pants WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

EDITOR: EMMA STEVEN nyccalendar@davlermedia.com

43 9/11 Memorials, Holiday Fun

46 The Great Outdoors,

Dance Party 47 Movers & Shakers,

Special Needs

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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West Side County Fair FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 4, 1-6pm WHERE: Riverside Park, 66th to 77th streets, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: A family afternoon with carnival rides and games, bands, sideshow performers, aerialists, reptile shows, local food and merchandise vendors, cotton candy, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A taste of the county fair in Manhattan.

WANT TO GO? 212-870-3073. riversideparknyc.org.

Summer on the Hudson: Riverside Park Skate Jam FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 12-5pm WHERE: Riverside Park, West 108th Street and Riverside Drive, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: The annual celebration of Riverside Park’s Skate Park with competitions, open skate, a raffle, food vendors, and all day fun.

Bring your board and gear to join in, or check your board and hang out.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Great fun for skate fans young and old.

WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.

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Mid-Autumn Moon Family Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, see website for times WHERE: The Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Explore the customs and traditions behind this harvest festival with a mooncake tasting, moon-themed arts and crafts, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Lots of family-friendly ways to celebrate.

WANT TO GO? $10; free for children younger than 2. 212-619-4785. mocanyc.org.

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Medieval Festival FREE

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WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 11:30am-6pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park, 741 Fort Washington Ave., Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Rub the rust off thy armor, iron thy chain mail, gird thy loins, and polish up on ye chivalry as this popular festival gallops into Fort Tryon Park for another year. The highlight of the day is a jousting event between knights on horseback.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The best of medieval entertainment brought to life in 2016.

WANT TO GO? 212-795-1600. whidc.org.

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92Y 22nd Annual Street Fest FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 12-5pm WHERE: 92Y, Lexington Avenue between 79th and 94th streets, Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: A free, public outdoor festival with performances and activities for adults and children of all ages.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This massive event spans 15 blocks and includes a special area for ages 5 and younger.

WANT TO GO? 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

LC Kids Presents ‘Meet Me at the Fountain’

WHEN: Sept. 17-18, Saturday-Sunday, 10-11:30am and 2-3:30pm WHERE: Samuel B. and David Rose Building, 165 W. 65th St., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The 30-minute interactive theater adventure is back for another show. Set across the sprawling Lincoln Center, the audience is tasked with helping a

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learn secret crime-fighting team to stop a diabolical plot to sabotage an opera diva on her big night.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Takes participatory theater to the next level.

WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-546-2656. kids.lincolncenter.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 12-4pm WHERE: Fort Washington Park, West 181 Street and Plaza Lafayette, Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the famous lighthouse with book readings, tours, fishing clinics, live music, family activities, and food.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Learn about the literary icon on your doorstep and the grass-roots campaign that saved the lighthouse.

WANT TO GO? riversideparknyc.org.

share smile A P P LY T O D AY !

Upper West Side

Morningside Lights FREE

the mandell pre school

WHEN: Sept. 17-24, daily, 12pm WHERE: Miller Theater at Columbia University, 2960 Broadway, Morningside Heights AGES: All WHAT: Sign up for one of the free lantern-building workshops, then take part in a magical illuminated parade through Morningside Park on Sept. 24 at 8pm. This year’s theme is all about Pulitzer Prizes.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Each lantern is made by a series of different people, offering kids a chance to take part in a community wide collaboration.

WANT TO GO? 212-854-1633. millertheatre.com.

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Lincoln Square West Village to learn more visit MandellSchool.org

Now Registering for the 2016-17 School Year BALLET ACADEMY EAST

Feast of San Gennaro FREE

WHEN: Sept. 15-25, Sunday-Thursday, 11:30am11:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 11:30-12am WHERE: Mulberry Street, Little Italy AGES: All WHAT: Now in its 90th year, the festival that celebrates the Patron Saint of Naples is famous for religious processions, parades, cannoli eating competition, musical entertainment, and, of course, the food.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A chance to take part in one of New York’s oldest festivals in one of its most historic neighborhoods.

WANT TO GO? 212-768-9320. sangennaro.org.

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‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’

WHEN: Sept. 30–Oct. 10; see website for show times WHERE: New Victory Theatfer, 229 W. 42nd St., Theater District AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The New Victory Theater opens its new season with a new production of the Jules Verne science fiction tale, bringing together multimedia, projections, and technology to make the audience feel like they are under the sea, too.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A chance for kids to find out about the original Nemo.

WANT TO GO? $16-$38. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org. ››

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New York City's Leading Center For Complete Ballet Education

Pre-Professional Division Ages 6 - 19

Audition Date: Sept. 19 Sign up online or by phone.

Pre-Ballet, Tap and Modern Ages 3 - 6

Petit Dancers

Ages 18 months - 2 years

Adult Open Classes Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Zumba, Pilates and Yoga

Rosalie O’Connor

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Little Red Lighthouse Festival FREE

play

Register Online, by Phone or In Person 1651 Third Avenue New York, NY 10128 212-410-9140 • info@baenyc.com www.BalletAcademyEast.com

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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.

Get Hooked FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 11am-2pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, Southern Waterfront, base of the 103rd Street Footbridge, Randall’s Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: An annual event celebrating the wildlife around Randall’s Island and all things fishing. Enjoy catch and release fishing, games, arts and crafts, refreshments, and other family fun.

WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Annual Autumn Moon Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 12pm WHERE: Mott Street between Canal and Bayard streets, Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: At this fest presented by the Better Chinatown Society, families can enjoy cultural performances, arts and crafts, and food vendors. The lantern parade will take place in Brooklyn again this year, see separate listing.

WANT TO GO? 917-660-2402. betterchinatown.com.

LC Kids at the Atrium: Chris Hadfield and Tim Kubart and the Space Cadets FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, 11am WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium, 61 W. 62nd St., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Spend the morning with a reading of The Darkest Dark by astronaut Chris Hadfield, then Tim Kubart and the Space Cadets will perform.

WANT TO GO? 212-875-5456. kids.lincolncenter.org.

Submerge FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 11am-4pm WHERE: Hudson River Park, Pier 25, North Moore Street and the Hudson River, Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: A science festival celebrating NYC’s coastal waters, presented

by Hudson River Park Trust and the New York Hall of Science. Enjoy hands-on marine science activities, live music, presentations by noted scientists, citizen science, kayaking, fishing, and more.

WANT TO GO? 212-627-2020. hudsonriverpark.org.

Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day Live: Manhattan FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, see websites for participating museums WHERE: Various museums citywide AGES: All WHAT: For one day only, participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone presenting a Museum Day Live! ticket. One ticket permits two people to enter the museum for free.

WANT TO GO? smithsonianmag.com/museumday.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS NYC Unicycle Festival FREE

WHEN: Sept. 1-4, Thursday-Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: This annual festival includes races, competitions, exhibitions, and a variety of unicycle sports including basketball, hockey, and sumo wrestling. There are also unicycle rides from Battery Park to Central Park, and from Brooklyn Bridge to Coney Island.

WANT TO GO? 212-938-0836. nycunifest.com.

23rd Annual Harlem Meer Performance Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 4, 2-4pm WHERE: Central Park, Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox avenues, Central Park AGES: All WHAT: Featuring established and emerging local artists in jazz, Latin, world, and gospel music and dance. This final event of the series features Keith “The Captain” Gamble and the NU Gypsies.

WANT TO GO? 212-860-1370. centralparknyc.org.

Welcome to the Neighborhood Celebration FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 10am-2pm WHERE: Mary Arnold Toys, 1178 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: A special event to mark the opening of the relocated Mary Arnold Toys, the oldest, continually operated toy store in New York City. Have fun with face painting and glitter tattoos, a mini pop-up portrait shoot, storytelling, balloons, cookies, cupcakes, and Mr. and Mrs. Clown.

WANT TO GO? 212-744-8510. maryarnoldtoys.com.

Farm Fresh Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, 10am-4pm WHERE: South Street Seaport, Fulton and Front streets, Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: A free family event to connect kids to where food comes from and learn how it grows. There will be entertainment, games, crafts, and, of course, food. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? farmfreshfestival.org.

German-American Steuben Parade FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, 12pm WHERE: Fifth Avenue, between 68th and 86th streets, Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate three centuries of German-American culture with this parade, featuring marchers from all over the United States, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

WANT TO GO? germanparadenyc.org.

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

An IBO World School For boys and girls OPEN HOUSE ages 3-14 www.bis-ny.org October 5th, at 6pm 212-481-2700

Autumn Moon Festival and Parade FREE

Celebrating 10 years of academic excellence this September, it is our pleasure to invite you to visit our stunning waterfront campus on East 23rd St. On your visit spend some time with our remarkable students and staff, explore our impressive facilities, and discover a world-class, balanced education where there is space for both rigor and recess.

We know a happy child is best positioned for success and believe passionately in supporting and stretching our students to meet their highest potential.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 12-5pm WHERE: Leif Ericsson Park, Eighth Avenue between 65th and 67th streets, Sunset Park, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: This festival features cultural performances, arts and crafts, food vendors, and a Lantern Parade from 1-3pm.

WANT TO GO? betterchinatown.com.

Irish Cultural Festival at CMA

Kite Flight for Peace Week FREE

WHEN: Sept. 24-25, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-4pm WHERE: Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, 1 FDR Four Freedoms Park, Roosevelt Island AGES: All WHAT: A two-day kite event to celebrate the United Nations General Assembly and International Peace Day. Make your very own kite and fly it at a kite workshop and enjoy an expert demonstration by American kiteflier and educator Archie Stewart.

WANT TO GO? 212-204-8831. fdrfourfreedomspark.org.

Lower East Side Pickle Day FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 12-5pm WHERE: Orchard Street, between Delancey and East Houston streets, Lower East Side AGES: All WHAT: Orchard Street will be transformed into a pickle bazaar with picklers, treats, local boutiques and restaurants, live music, games, activities, and the world’s first ever home pickling/dancing contest.

WANT TO GO? pickleday.nyc.

Washington Square Folk Festival FREE

WHEN: Sept. 24-25, Saturday-Sunday, 1-4pm WHERE: Washington Square Park, University and Waverly places, Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy New York folk music in the park with everything from traditional Mexican to Klezmer, and a square dance in the Square.

WANT TO GO? 646-495-9721. wspfolkfest.com. ››

RSVP ONLINE AT WWW.BIS-NY.ORG MORE THAN A SCHOOL, IT’S AN EDUCATION

EXPLORE LEARN LISTEN DANCE! CLASSES START IN SEPTEMBER! • • • •

Explorers’ Club Stories & Songs Parent & Baby Yoga Chess For Children

registration@bpcparks.org

www.bpcparks.org

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 12-3pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: A special festival in partnership with the Irish Arts Center celebrating the creative world of Irish literature and folk arts. Enjoy live music, dance, and art-making workshops.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

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Open Studio for Families at the Guggenheim

WHEN: Through Sept. 25: Sundays, 1-4pm WHERE: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Weekly, drop-in, art program for children. September’s theme is Moving Abstraction.

WANT TO GO? $25; $18 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-423-3500. guggenheim.org.

CRAFTY KIDS Duct Tape Crafts FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 7, 4pm WHERE: New York Public Library, Riverside Branch, 127 Amsterdam Ave., Lincoln Square AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Make a fun, practical pouch out of duct tape.

WANT TO GO? 212-870-1810. nypl.org.

Whitney Wees: Materials and Textures

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 10am WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Explore the exhibition Human Interest: Portraits from the Whitney’s Collection at this event for children and their families.

Kids will look at artworks and then use touch to explore how artists create portraits using unexpected materials.

WANT TO GO? $5 per child with admission: $22; $17 seniors; free for children. 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

Second Sunday Family Tours

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Family-friendly tours that include conversation and creative hands-on gallery activities.

WANT TO GO? $20 per family. 212-423-3500. guggenheim.org.

Kids Coloring Club FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 24: Saturdays, 10am WHERE: New York Public Library, Yorkville Branch, 222 E. 79th St., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Children of all ages are invited to color on sheets featuring their favorite characters, seasonal designs, and more.

WANT TO GO? 212-744-5824. nypl.org.

Sketching Tour: Material Experimentations for Families

WHEN: Sept. 10-24, Saturdays, 10-11am WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore portraits in the Whitney’s collection by drawing.

WANT TO GO? $5 per child with admission: $22; $17 seniors; free for children. 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

CMA’s Art Island Outpost FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 27: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm WHERE: Governors Island, Nolan Park Building 14, ferries leave from 10 South St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: Spend the summer getting creative with free hands-on art making workshops on Governors Island.

WANT TO GO? 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Preschool Art FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 6: Thursdays, 10:30am WHERE: Rockefeller Park, River Terrace and Warren Street, Battery Park City AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Very young artists are introduced to paper, clay, paint, and recyclable materials, transforming them into mini masterpieces.

WANT TO GO? bpcparks.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME Brooklyn Book Festival Children’s Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, 10am-4pm WHERE: MetroTech Commons, MetroTech Walk and Lawrence Street, Downtown Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: This day of the festival dedicated to kids will feature children’s authors, theatrical performances, a dueling draw-off, workshops, picture book and young readers stages, and a Literary Marketplace as part of the celebration of childhood reading. Part of the Brooklyn Book Festival (see separate listing on nymetroparents.com for more information).

WANT TO GO? 718-802-3830. brooklynbookfestival.org.

Curious George 75th Anniversary Storytime

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 2289 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This year marks the 75th birthday of everyone’s favorite monkey: Curious George! Join in for a special storytime with activities.

WANT TO GO? 212-362-8835. bn.com.

Mo Reads! and Mo Signs!

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 1pm onwards WHERE: New York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Don’t miss the last chance to attend two special events a special reading followed by a signing with Mo Willems, plus Elephant and Piggie co-authors Dan Santat and Laurie Keller. Both events require separate tickets. Arrive when the museum opens to secure yours.

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 seniors, educators, and active military; $12 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children 4 and younger. 212873-3400. nyhistory.org.

Storytelling in the Park FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 24: Saturdays, 11am-12pm WHERE: Central Park, Hans Christian Andersen Statue, 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue entrance, Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Every week, two different storytellers will be reading aloud folk stories, fairy tales, mythological fables, and more at this Central Park landmark.

WANT TO GO? storytelling-nyc.org.

Because Everything

Thalia Kids’ Book Club: Gene Luen Yang

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 1pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 9-12 WHAT: The graphic novelist and National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature discusses the latest installment of his book, Secret Coders.

WANT TO GO? $16. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

Character Visit and Diverging Elements Theatre Company FREE

WHEN: Sept. 3-25, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Strand Book Store, 828 Broadway, Union Square AGES: All WHAT: Each weekend, a book character visits the Strand for story time and crafts and once a month the Diverging Elements Theatre Company bring a story to life in 4-D. This month features visits from Elmo, Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Pete the Cat, and the DETC showcase of Oliver Jeffers’ book How to Catch a Star.

WANT TO GO? 212-473-1452. strandbooks.com.

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Massage Envy Midtown West 525 W42nd St. (Bet.10th &11th Aves.)

Midtown West (212) 473-ENVY M-F 8a-10p | S 8a-8p | Su 8a-8p

Storytime in Nolen Library

WHEN: Sept. 1-29, Sundays, 2-2:30pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 3-3:30pm WHERE: The Met Fifth Avenue, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Weekly storytime in the museum’s Nolan Library, which you can then follow with a gallery hunt.

WANT TO GO? Free with admission: $25; $17 seniorsl; $12 students; free for children ages 12 and younger. 212-570-3961. metmuseum.org.

Pooh Bear Returns FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm; Tuesday-Wednesday, 10am-8pm WHERE: New York Public Library Children’s Center, Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: The original Winnie-the-Pooh and friends dolls are back on display after over a year of important conservation work, including neck alignments, clavicle repairs, and bottom fluffing.

WANT TO GO? 917-275-6975. nypl.org.

Storytime FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 29, 2017: Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 11:30am WHERE: Books of Wonder, 18 W. 18th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Weekly story time in the children’s bookstore.

WANT TO GO? 212-989-3270. booksofwonder.com. ››

Harlem Hebrew is a tuition-free dual-language public charter school focusing on an immersion approach to Modern Israeli Hebrew and the study of Israeli culture and history. As with all public schools, we are non-sectarian and do not teach religion. All are welcome!

We have two-three teachers in a classroom throughout the day and provide our students with outstanding instruction across all curriculum areas. Come visit to learn more about us!

Submit your application online by visiting: www.harlemhebrewcharter.org – enroll Applications must be received by April 1st!

Tuesday Morning Tours Are Available By Appointment Email: info@harlemhebrewcharter.org

T: 212-866-4608 147 St. Nicholas Avenue, New York, NY 10026 F: 212-866-1099

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Leggo My Legos: Block Time FREE

WHEN: Sept. 7-28, Wednesdays, 11am WHERE: New York Public Library, New Amsterdam Branch, 9 Murray St., Tribeca AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children are invited to sink their little hands in to piles of blocks. Bring a toy car and drive around the tiny town that lives at the library.

WANT TO GO? 212-732-8186. nypl.org.

Summer on the Hudson: Human Chess FREE

SMARTY PANTS Mad Science FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 4, 12-1:30pm WHERE: The Great Hill, Central Park West between 103rd and 106th streets, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Learn all about H20 at this final show of the Central Park Family Performance Festival, featuring the Mad Scientists who bring to life science for kids.

WANT TO GO? 646-208-4111. centralparknyc.org/fpf.

MoMath Family Fridays: Number Puzzles FREE

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 9, 6:30pm WHERE: The National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Flatiron District AGES: All WHAT: This month’s theme is number puzzles, perfect for anyone who likes Sudoku, KenKen, or any type of puzzling.

WANT TO GO? 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Star Trek: The Starfleet Academy Experience

WHEN: Through Oct. 31: Sunday-Thursday, 10am-8pm; FridaySaturday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86, 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Find out if you’ve got what it takes to be the next James T. Kirk or Spock at this immersive exhibition. Experience life as a Starfleet Academy cadet with interactive activities and many props and costumes from the TV show.

WANT TO GO? $25; $23 seniors; $18 children; free for children 4 and younger. 212-245-0072. intrepidmuseum.org.

Charlotte Brontë: An Independent Will

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: The Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: 2 and younger WHAT: Join in for a tour led by Ph.D. art historians of the exhibitions Stuard Davis: In Full Swing and Danny Lyon: Message to the Future.

This program is just for parents and caregivers with babies.

WANT TO GO? $25 plus museum admission: $22; $18 seniors; free for children 18 and younger. whitney.org.

WHEN: Sept. 9–Jan. 2, 2017: Tuesday-Thursday, 10:30am-5pm; Fridays, 10:30am-9pm; Saturdays, 10am-6pm; Sundays, 11am-6pm WHERE: The Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave., Murray Hill AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A new exhibition all about the English novelist, on the 200th anniversary of her birth, will appeal to Jane Eyre fans. It traces her creative path from reluctant governess to published poet to commanding novelist, including actual manuscripts from Jane Eyre.

WANT TO GO? $20; $13 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-685-0008. themorgan.org.

The Battle of Brooklyn Family Day

Mission to Space

Stroller Tours

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 11am-3pm WHERE: The New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: A special event to celebrate the opening of the NYHS latest exhibit The Battle of Brooklyn, featuring George Washington himself as well as patriotic crafts, historical re-enactors, and more.

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 seniors, active military, and educators; $12 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children 4 and younger. 212873-3400. nyhistory.org.

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WHEN: Sept. 1-29, Thursdays, 4:30-6:30pm WHERE: Soldiers and Sailors Monument, Riverside Drive and West 89th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Play as your favorite game piece and navigate the chess board, turning chess into a team sport.

WANT TO GO? riversideparknyc.org.

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sept. 13–Jan. 17, 2017: Mondays, 12-5pm; Thursday-Friday, 12-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the mysteries of outer space and how it continues to challenge our imaginations with a selection of works that traverse the theme of space exploration, including its history, limitations, and potential.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

9/11 MEMORIALS 9/11 Table of Silence FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 8:15am WHERE: Lincoln Center, Columbus Avenue and West 64th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: This prayer for peace, choreographed by Jacqulyn Buglisi, is a public tribute to 9/11 in collaboration with Italian visual artist Rossella Vasta. The Buglisi Dance Theatre will be joined by more than 100 dancers from major companies and schools in the area.

WANT TO GO? 212-719-3301. buglisidance.org.

15th Anniversary of September 11 FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, see website for times WHERE: National September 11 Memorial & Museum, 180 Greenwich St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: The memorial plaza will again open to the general public so visitors may view the Tribute In Light and pay their respects.

WANT TO GO? 212-266-5211. 911memorial.org.

Tribute In Light FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, dusk WHERE: National September 11 Memorial & Museum, 180 Greenwich St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: Visible within a 60-mile radius on a clear night, Tribute has become a world-renowned icon of remembrance, honoring those who were lost, as well as those who worked so hard to get our city through that terrible time.

WANT TO GO? mas.org/programs/tributeinlight.

Remembering 9/11

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 2pm WHERE: Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Ave., Harlem AGES: 13 and older WHAT: A screening of 16 Acres and The Second Day: two documentary films that chronicle Sep. 11th and its aftermath.

WANT TO GO? 212-534-1672. mcny.org.

‘Occupation: Dragonslayer’

WHEN: Sept. 8-25, see website for dates and times WHERE: Robert Moss Theatre, 440 Lafayette St., East Village AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The show is a story of an extraordinary hero, his nemesis, and the ordinary people caught up by what happened on 9/11.

The production is directed by Stephen Ryan, who had a first-hand experience as a member of rescue and recovery team at Ground Zero.

WANT TO GO? $18; $15 students and seniors. 800-838-3006. dragonslayermusical.com.

HOLIDAY FUN West Indian American Day Parade and Carnival FREE

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 5, 11am-6pm WHERE: Eastern Parkway, between Schenectady Avenue and Grand Army Plaza, Crown Heights/Prospect Heights, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Tons of food vendors, parade floats, calypso and soca rhythms, steel drums, and stepping, plus some crazy costumes, make the West Indian American Day Carnival a vibrant celebration.

WANT TO GO? 718-467-1797. wiadca.com.

2016 NYC Labor Day Parade FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 10am WHERE: Fifth Avenue, between 44th and 64th streets, Midtown to Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the working men and women who help keep NYC up and running at the 2016 NYC Labor Day Parade.

WANT TO GO? nycclc.org.

Grandparents Weekend FREE

WHEN: Sept. 10-11, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Flatiron District AGES: All WHAT: Have fun at MoMath for free with your grandparents. There will also be some special educator-led sessions to enjoy together.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for grandparents and up to two grandchildren. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Celebrate Grandparents Day at CMA

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 11am-1pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: A special art making event for grandparents and their grandkids.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

All Of A Kind Family Walking Tour for Rosh Hashanah

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 11am WHERE: Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge St., Lower East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Prepare for Rosh Hashana like it’s 1916 with a special walking tour for the Jewish New Year with stories, a visit to Shtiebel Row, and treats.

WANT TO GO? $20 per family. 212-219-0302. eldridgestreet.org. ›› BigAppleParent 43

‘The Princess and the Pea’

WHEN: Sept. 10-25, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 151 W. 26th St., 7th Floor, Chelsea AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Prince Prince is looking for a new Princess, but will she pass The Royal Pea Test?

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaterny.com.

‘Banned Together: A Censorship Cabaret’

WHEN: Sept. 29-30, Thursday-Friday, see website for times WHERE: TADA! Youth Theater, 15 W. 28th St., Chelsea AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Teen performers explore the world of banned books through scenes, songs, and skits as part of Banned Books Week.

WANT TO GO? 212-252-1619. tadatheater.com.

Little Red’s Hood

SHOW TIME!

WHEN: Through Oct. 9: see websites for days and times WHERE: Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre in Central Park, West 81st Street and Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: This production is a fresh retelling of the celebrated Little Red Riding Hood tale updated with a modern sensibility that will appeal to kids.

WANT TO GO? $10; $7 for children younger than 12. 212-988-9093. cityparksfoundation.org.

‘Peace on Your Wings’

WHEN: Sept. 9-10, Friday; 7:30pm; Saturday, 2pm and 7:30pm WHERE: John Jay College Gerald W. Lynch Theatre, 524 W. 59th St., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Based on the true story of Sadako Sasak, a 12-year-old girl who died from leukemia resulting from radiation caused by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. She became famous for folding more than a thousand paper cranes to fulfill an old Japanese legend.

WANT TO GO? $35; $15 students with ID. 818-905-5511. ohanaarts.ticketleap.com.

Cirque du Soleil presents ‘Toruk’

WHEN: Sept. 7-11, Wednesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Prospect Heights, Brooklyn AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Inspired by James Cameron’s Avatar, Cirque du Soleil transports you to the world of Pandora in a visually stunning live setting.

WANT TO GO? $42 and up. 212-359-6387. barclayscenter.com.

Theater for the New City Street Theatre Tour: Election Selection or You Bet FREE

WHEN: Sept. 10-18, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: NYC playgrounds and parks across the five boroughs AGES: All WHAT: Your last chance to see The Theater for the New City’s summer tour, coming to a park near you. Expect giant puppets and trap doors, mixed with Gilbert and Sullivan and Bossa Nova! Check website for locations.

WANT TO GO? 212-254-1109. theaterforthenewcity.net.

‘Blossom’

WHEN: Sept. 9-24, Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm WHERE: Dixon Place, 161 Chrystie St., Lower East Side AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Five puppeteers visualize the delicate unraveling of an elderly painter’s mind in this show created by award-winning puppeteer Spencer Lot. WANT TO GO? $22; $15 students and seniors. 866-811-4111. dixonplace.org.

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ON SCREEN Family Movies: ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ FREE WHEN: Friday, Sept. 2, 2pm WHERE: New York Public Library, Countee Cullen Library, 104 W. 136th St., Harlem AGES: 13 and older WHAT: A chance to see a clash of the titans in one of 2016’s most talked about movies, starring Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill.

WANT TO GO? 212-491-2070. nypl.org.

Mo Movies!

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 1pm WHERE: New York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Special screenings of Willem’s beloved stories (and a few special behind-the-scenes films).

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 seniors, educators, and active military; $12 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children 4 and younger. 212873-3400. nyhistory.org.

SPEAK SPANISH, FRENCH, ITALIAN & MANDARIN

Kid Flicks FREE

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 26, 4pm WHERE: New York Public Library, Yorkville Branch, 222 E. 79th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Film showings for children, based on the popular picture books Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, Curious George Goes to the Hospital, and Band Concert.

WANT TO GO? 212-744-5824. nypl.org.

with Tribeca Language is the home of QTalk, It is based on a series of visuals interpreted as complex sentences from the very first class and most of all it is fun. QTalk is available in the form of toys, books, interactive games and software in 10 languages.

Film Forum Jr. Screenings

WHEN: Sept. 11–Dec. 11; Sundays, 11am WHERE: Film Forum, 209 W. Houston St., Soho AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy classic movies at this family screening event. September screenings include A Dog’s Life, Horse Feathers, and Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet.

WANT TO GO? $8. 212-727-8112. filmforum.org.

2 Hour Morning & Afternoon Programs

• AFTER-SCHOOL GROUP CLASSES for KIDS AGES 3-12 50 Minutes of Learning through Play

• BIRTHDAY PARTIES RENTAL SPACE ON WEEKENDS

or Theme birthday parties (Spanish birthday parties with our favorite teachers, clowns, face painting, games etc...)

WHEN: Sept. 2–March 2, 2017; daily, 10:30am-4:30pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Directed by award-winning filmmaker David Lickley, Wonders of the Arctic takes audiences on a journey across one of the most beautiful and frigid places on earth, exploring how humans and animals have adapted and flourished for thousands of years in the vast ice wilderness of the Arctic.

WANT TO GO? $27; $22 students and seniors; $16 children. 212769-5100. amnh.org.

MINI

MUSICIANS Sunday Morning Sing-Along with Suzanna

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 10am WHERE: Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd Floor, Chelsea AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: A morning sing-along with children’s entertainer, and Karma Kids Yoga teacher Suzanna Bridges.

WANT TO GO? $10. 646-638-1444. karmakidsyoga.com.

Family Days at Carnegie Hall FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 11am WHERE: Carnegie Hall: Resnick Education Wing, 881 Seventh Ave., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Explore the swinging world of jazz at this event with free performances and musical activities for families.

WANT TO GO? 212-247-7800. carnegiehall.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 11:30am WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Get out your balloon tails and dancing shoes for the hilarious antics and soulful sounds of the FunkeyMonkeys.

WANT TO GO? $16. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org. ››

• GROUP COURSES FOR ADULTS Lunch & Evening Options

• PRIVATE ON OR OFF CLASSES

For Kids & Adults at Tribeca Language & at your Home or Office • Day or Evening Options

ASK ABOUT TRIAL CLASSES

CONTACT US & REGISTER NOW 22 HARRISON STREET - NEW YORK NY 10013 Tel: (212) 219 9893 - admin@tribecalanguage.com www.tribecalanguage.com

German

Lessons Children

for

‘Wonders of the Arctic’

The Funky Monkeys

• BABY & ME CLASSES • PreSchool Prep (2-3.5 years old)

Bilingual German After School Program NY State Accredited Language Program Low Tuition Minimum Age: 4 Years No Previous German Necessary Classes Meet Once a Week Playgroup Age 4-5 From 4:30-6:15 Kindergarten Age 5-6 • Other Classes Ages 7-15 Four convenient locations in the Greater New York Area: Ridgewood, Queens, Manhattan, NY (Upper East Side) Franklin Square, Garden City.

Classes start second week in September For more information see:

www.German-American-School.org Teaching German for 119 years! or call 212-787-7543 BigAppleParent 45

THE GREAT OUTDOORS DANCE PARTY Wildflower Meadow Tour FREE

Little Club Heads Super Fun Family Dance Party

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 15, 11am-12pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Wildflower Meadow is home to an array of native and ornamental plants that provide food and shelter for bees, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.

WANT TO GO? 212-860-1899. randallsisland.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 4, 2-5pm WHERE: Broad Street Ballroom, 41 Broad St., Lower Manhattan AGES: 3-12 WHAT: The popular dance party for the family returns with a back-toschool special. Get your glow sticks ready for 10-year-old DJs Amira and Kayla, live performances, face painting, balloons, and more.

WANT TO GO? $16.82. 917-327-3268. littleclubheads.com.

Make It Wild FREE

‘Thorns of the Crown’

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 10am-2pm WHERE: High Line, West 14th Street passage, West Village AGES: All WHAT: Explore the wild side of the High Line, from its earliest self-seeded plants to the animals that call it home.

WANT TO GO? 212-843-9394. thehighline.org.

WHEN: Sept. 9-10, Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm WHERE: The Sheen Center, 18 Bleecker St., East Village AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A new dance/theater work created by Spain’s Ramon Oller, inspired by the most powerful of Shakespeare’s tragedies and featuring Ballet Hispanico star Allesandra Corona.

WANT TO GO? $35. 212-925-2812. acoronaworks.com.

Governors Island: The Hills

Dances Patrelle presents ‘Macbeth’

WHEN: Through Sept. 25: Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: Slide Hill rises 40 feet and includes four slides, one of which is the longest slide in New York City. Discover Hill, also 40 feet in height, includes a site-specific sculpture by British artist Rachel Whiteread in the form of a cabin.

WANT TO GO? $2 ferry round trip fee. 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Family Ecology Sail

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 12-3pm WHERE: South Street Seaport Museum, 12 Fulton St., Lower Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Board the historic 1885 schooner and set sail past Governors Island for the fishing grounds of Bay Ridge. Bring up a variety of creatures from blue crabs to flounder, and help raise the sails while learning about the marine ecosystem.

WANT TO GO? $45; $40 for children ages 12 and younger. 212-7488753. southstreetseaportmuseum.org.

Young Sprouts Gardening FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 4: Tuesdays, 3:15-3:45pm WHERE: Nelson A. Rockefeller Park, Children’s Garden, River Terrace, Battery Park City AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Learn about plants, insects, worms, and birds, and enjoy nature-themed stories at this gardening program for children, featuring preschool-appropriate projects such as planting seeds, watering the garden, and tasting fresh vegetables.

WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.

Kayaking

WHEN: Through Oct. 15: see website for dates and times WHERE: Hudson River Park, Piers 96, 66, 40, 84, and 26, Tribeca, Greenwich Village, Clinton, Chelsea, and Hell’s Kitchen AGES: All WHAT: Take a kayak out on the Hudson River and have some fun splashing about. There are five different locations to can get your feet wet, with many offering lessons as well as rentals.

WANT TO GO? Prices vary. hudsonriverpark.org.

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WHEN: Sept. 15-18, Thursday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College, 695 Park Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A balletic retelling of the Bard’s classic story by the popular Dances Patrelle. Set to a sweeping, patchwork score of Tchaikovsky symphonies this Macbeth is dramatic and intense, featuring great costumes and simple sets.

WANT TO GO? $45. 212-772-4448. kayeplayhouse.hunter.cuny.edu.

Fall For Dance Festival

WHEN: Sept. 26–Oct. 8; see website for show times WHERE: New York City Center, 131 W. 55th St., Midtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This internationally acclaimed, two-week festival will include performances by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, American Ballet Theatre, Bangarra, Compagnie Accrorap, Dada Masilo, Grupo Corpo, Hong Kong Ballet, Richard Alston Dance Company, and more.

WANT TO GO? $15. 212-581-1212. nycitycenter.org.

Kids’ Night Out: JCC Olympic Games

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 6-9pm WHERE: JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will go for the gold during an exciting night of JCC Olympic-style games including soccer, gymnastics, and track and field races.

WANT TO GO? $50. 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org.

Teaching to Walk FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 30: Monday-Friday, 11am-12pm WHERE: The High Line, West 14th Street and Tenth Avenue, Meatpacking District AGES: 2 and younger WHAT: Be part of a live art performance, as artist Roman Ondak invites mothers with sons to teach them to walk in the park. The performance is informed by the artist’s memory of watching his wife teach their son to walk.

WANT TO GO? 212-500-6035. thehighline.org.

Ghostbusters Experience and Ghostbusters: Dimension

MOVERS & SHAKERS Summer on the Hudson: Tots Soccer and Pee Wee Basketball FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 9: Thursdays, 9:30-11:30am WHERE: Riverside Park South, 71st Street, Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: An introduction to soccer and basketball at the soccer field and basketball courts.

WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.

Vintage Baseball FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 12-4pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: Play base ball as it was once played, with three hands, no gloves, and a time when gambling on professional sports was common. The Gotham Base Ball Club—established in 1852 and became the NY Giants in 1883— will display a double header on the Parade Grounds next to Fort Jay. WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Summer on the Hudson: Riverside Park Skate Clinic FREE

WHEN: Sept. 8-11, Thursday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Riverside Park, West 108th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Three-day clinic for beginners and intermediates and teaches the foundations of skateboarding. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 212-408-0219. nycgovparks.org.

WHEN: Through Oct. 31: Monday-Thursday and Sundays, 9am10pm; Friday-Saturday, 9-12am WHERE: Madame Tussauds New York, 234 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Experience scenes from the new movie, then suit up in proton packs and enjoy a virtual reality experience.

WANT TO GO? $36.99-$57. 866-841-3505. ghostbusters. madametussauds.com.

SPECIAL NEEDS AMC Sensory-Friendly Screenings

WHEN: Sept. 10-24, Saturdays, 10am WHERE: AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9, 2309 Frederick Douglass Blvd., Harlem and AMC Loews 84th Street, 2310 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Every month this program provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy films in a safe and accepting environment.

WANT TO GO? 212-665-6923. amctheatres.com.

TDF Autism Theatre Initiative: ‘The Lion King’

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, see website for times WHERE: Minskoff Theatre, 200 W. 45th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: The hugely popular Autism Theatre Initiative’s season begins with the The Lion King. Its mission is to make theater accessible to children and adults on the autism spectrum.

WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-912-9770. tdf.org.

Rolex Central Park Horse Show

WHEN: Sept. 21-25, Wednesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Wollman Rink, 830 Fifth Ave., Central Park AGES: All WHAT: The third annual event will feature five days of diverse programming and daily exhibitions of different breeds and disciplines, including arabians, show jumping, dressage, hunters, and more, with a free family day on Sunday.

WANT TO GO? $50-$125. 212-938-0001. centralparkhorseshow.com.

Coming up next month: OCT. 6-9: NYC Comic Con at the Javits Center, Hell’s Kitchen OCT. 14-30: Mr. Poppers Penguins at the New Victory Theater, Times Square OCT. 30: Halloween Pumpkin Parade and Pumpkin Flotilla, Harlem Meer OCT. 31: NYC’s 43rd Annual Village Halloween Parade, The West Village BigAppleParent 47

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Pick Your Own Apples ››

Research by Megan Bailey, Lauren Diaz, and Melissa Wickes

Bite into crunchy, juicy, just-picked apples this month! A day trip to a local orchard yields fresh fruit to take home by the bucket, sweet pastries and baked goods (apple cider doughnuts, please!), and lots of kid-friendly perks, from hayrides to petting zoos. Grown-ups: Some farms even serve up hard cider and homemade wines!

Note that dates are projected and availability is subject to change. We recommend calling ahead before visiting these locations.

Farm market open 8:30am-5:30pm. Picnic fields on-site. Cash and checks only.

Orchards of Concklin 2 S. Mountain Road (off Route 45), Pomona 845-354-0369; theorchardsofconcklin.com Open the last two Sundays in September and the first two Sundays in October, 10am-5pm. Picking poles available; $5 refundable deposit and $2 rental fee. Farm store with baked goods, apple cider, and doughnuts open 8am-6pm. Pick-your-own group tours are available by appointment.

Orange County

Apple Dave’s Orchards 82 Four Corners Road, Warwick 845-986-1684; applewoodorchards.com Apple picking Labor Day through October, pumpkin picking in October; 9am-5pm daily. Farm store and winery on-site.

New Jersey Bergen County

Demarest Farms 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale 201-666-0472; demarestfarms.com Pick-your-own apples beginning Sept. 3, weekends 9:30am-4:30pm. Reservations for schools or large groups available.

Farm store with bakery, apple cider, salad bar, and fresh produce open from 8am6:30pm. Weekend hayrides available. Also offering a corn maze and farm animals.

New York Westchester County

Harvest Moon Farm and Orchards 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem 914-485-1210 harvestmoonfarmandorchard.com Apple picking begins in early September after Labor Day (call for availability).

Fresh pies, doughnuts, produce, and local honey, local dairy products, and maple syrup for sale, as well as New York state

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wines and spirits and the farm’s own hard cider. Open 8am-6pm daily.

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights 914-245-5111; wilkensfarm.com Apple picking through mid-October, 10am4:30pm daily. Farm market with apple cider, baked goods, pre-picked produce, and gifts.

Outhouse Orchards 139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem 914-277-3188; outhouseorchardsny.com Apple picking begins the weekend after Labor Day, 9am-5pm daily while supplies last. Fresh cider for sale, hayrides, and corn maze on-site, and a pick-your-own pumpkin patch.

Rockland County

Dr. Davies Farm 306 Route 304, Congers 845-268-7020; drdaviesfarm.com Labor Day through mid-November, open 10am-4:30pm daily for pick-your-own.

Hayrides offered weekends 11am-5pm; weekdays by appointment ($5 per person).

Apple Ridge Orchards 101 Jessup Road, Warwick 845-987-7717; appleridgeorchards.com Pick your own apples in the fall, MondayFriday, 9am-5pm, by school group reservations only (call or visit the website); weekends and holidays, 9am-6pm. Dwarf apple trees make picking easy for kids. Hay wagon rides, farm animals for petting, glass observation honey beehive, and farm store with fresh-pressed cider and homemade cider doughnuts.

Lawrence Farms Orchards 39 Colandrea Road, Newburgh 845-562-4268; lawrencefarmsorchards.com Apple and pumpkin picking through October, plus pick-your-own grapes, peppers, cabbage, and other vegetables.

Train rides through the village on the weekends, plus a hay bale maze every day from September-October, playhouse farm village open daily, and animals for petting.

Country store with honey, preserves, hot cider, ice cream, and homemade doughnuts. Open 9am-4pm daily.

Masker Orchards 45 Ball Road, Warwick 845-986-1058; maskers.com

Apple picking Labor Day weekend through early November, 9am-5pm daily.

Bags provided. Free admission and parking. Country store with honey, preserves, and country gifts on-site. Picnic areas available. Pony rides, live music, haunted house, and maze for children on weekends (call for starting dates).

Ochs Orchard 4 Ochs Lane (off Route 94), Warwick 845-986-1591; ochsorchard.net Apple picking in September and October; U-pick pumpkins, tomatoes, and other vegetables through October.

Farm stand with pre-picked fruits and vegetables, apple cider, homemade doughnuts, preserves, maple syrup, jams and jellies, and honey. Pies available on weekends. Homemade ice cream for sale. Small petting zoo. Open 9am-5pm daily. Store open until 6pm.

U-pick apples (15 varieties) in September and October, weekends only 10am-4:30pm.

Small trees for kids. Homemade apple cider and doughnuts for sale. Ice cream stand onsite. Hayrides, picnic tables, and animals to feed. Farmers’ market open weekdays 9am6pm. Cash or check only; ATM on-site. You can use credit cards at the farm stand.

Jenkins-Lueken Orchards Route 299 West and Yankee

Folly Road, New Paltz 845-255-0999; jlorchards.com Apple picking Labor Day weekend through October, 9am6pm daily and until 7pm on weekends. Gourds, fresh peanut butter, fresh cider, and hard cider also available. Bakery, corn maze, hayrides, and pumpkin picking on-site (in October).

Hurds Family Farm 2185 State Route 32, Modena 845-883-7825

hurdsfamilyfarm.com Pick your own apples from August through early November with more than 20 varieties at the 400-acre farm. Apple cider doughnuts, hot and cold apple cider, applesauce, apple butter, and jams and preserves available for purchase. Visit the café for savory and sweet foods, all made with apples. Open Thursday-Sunday, 9am-5pm.

Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/apples

TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA Kidoons/WYRD Productions in association with The 20K Collective

Sept 30 – Oct 10 FOR EVERYONE AGES 8+

Pennings Farm Market and Orchard 161 Route 94 S., Warwick 845-986-1059 penningsfarmmarket.com Apple picking Labor Day weekend through the second week of November, 9am5pm daily. Pumpkins on sale from late September through October. Weekend hayrides and petting zoo. Ice cream stand, pub, and café with full menu.

For apple picking information, call 845-986-7080.

Soons Orchard & Farm Market 23 Soons Circle, New Hampton 845-374-5471 soonsorchards.com Apple picking Labor Day weekend through October, 10am4pm on weekends and Monday holidays. Dwarf trees ideal for kids. Store with pre-picked fruit and vegetables, fresh-pressed apple cider and doughnuts, fudge, and baked goods open 9am-6pm.

MR. POPPER’S PENGUINS BASED ON THE BOOK

BY RICHARD AND FLORENCE ATWATER Kenny Wax Family Entertainment & TC Beech

Oct 14 – 30 BEST FOR AGES 4–7

Ulster County

Dressel Farms 271 State Route 208, New Paltz 845-255-0693; dresselfarms.com

NewVictory.org ®

A NEW 42ND STREET ® PROJECT

646.223.3010

PHOTOS: CRAIG FRANCIS, HELEN MURRAY

209 W 42ND STREET just west of Broadway

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Back-to-School A Nanny’s Day - The Professional Way

nannysdaybooks@gmail.com A Nanny’s Day - The Professional Way! introduces it’s social studies curriculum book designed for nannies caring for toddler and preschool-age children. Author Kristin Laubenthal is a prominent career nanny with a plethora of experience in the NYC nanny industry. The book includes ideas that are developmentally appropriate, and engaging so the children are learning without even realizing it. Order your copy from Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. Because nannies are teachers, too!

Abrons Arts Center Arts Classes

at Henry Street Settlement 466 Grand St. 212-598-0400 abronsartscenter.org henrystreet.org info@henrystreet.org Ignite your child’s creative spark! The Obie Award-winning Abrons Arts Center offers engaging instruction in dance, theater, music, and visual arts for ages 3-18. Classes are taught by our experienced artist faculty. Students become part of a dynamic arts community and can share their work in professional exhibition and performance spaces. Classes are offered in tap, ballet, hip-hop, breaking, singing, piano, guitar, and cartooning. Private instruction available.

Join us for an open house from 9am-5pm. on Sept. 17. Classes begin Sept. 17.

Academic Coaching & Tutoring John Montgomery, Ph.D.

Serving the Westchester, Manhattan, and lower Fairfield areas 917-244-5161 homeostasispsychology.com john@johnmontgomery.com We help students overcome a variety of blocks that may keep them from fulfilling their academic potential, such as procrastination, test-taking anxiety, lack of confidence, and lack of focus. Our powerful method, developed by John Montgomery,

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Ph.D., a psychology professor at New York University, provides tools that help students disengage from specific thought and behavior patterns that can impede academic success. Students will also be given extensive help with their schoolwork when needed, and will typically complete a substantial amount of work during the sessions. Call for a free consultation.

Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens Pearl Studios, 500 Eighth Ave., 4th Floor 917-763-1777 actorstechniqueny.com Actors Technique NY Kids & Teens is an on-camera, TV and film, act and audition technique studio, for ages 4-19. Classes are held Saturdays or Sundays in fall, winter, spring, or summer. ATNY works with NYC’s top agents, managers, and TV casting directors. Successes include “Dice” of Nick’s Sam & Cat; Logan, NBC’s Blindspot; Jade, Orange is the New Black; Sydney in Wizard of Lies with Robert DeNiro; and TV’s Sesame Street. Great for newbies and advanced kids for TV, film, commercials, musical theater, and voice. Industry recommended.

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 It’s back-to-school season and All My Children Daycare is the eco-friendly choice for your infant or young child. We have various locations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens to accommodate your needs. AMC offers a holistic approach to education inspired by nature, and our staff is highly trained. Growth and development of the child as a whole is our No. 1 goal. We also offer a broad range of content on our website for parents. Call to inquire about registration or

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

The annual guide to schools, resources, programs, & activities for kids!

schedule a tour of a facility near you: 212-466-6262 or email info@allmychildrendaycare.com.

The Amas Musical Theatre, Rosetta LeNoire Musical Theatre Academy

212-563-2565 amasmusical.org amas@amasmusical.org The Rosetta LeNoire Musical Theatre Academy is the flagship education program of awardwinning Amas Musical Theatre.

Saturday classes 9:45am-4:30pm begin Oct. 15 in singing, acting, and dance, and guest workshops taught by experienced professionals in a nurturing environment. In May 2017, students perform a fully-produced off-Broadway musical. Classes are held at the JKO High School at West 46th Street. Thirty to 35 students ages 14-20 are accepted by audition on the basis of talent and potential. Tuition for the academy is $1,500. Scholarships available for eligible students.

Visit amasmusical.org to register.

Art of Mandarin Chinese Tutors

812 W. 181st St. 917-698-6250 artofmandarin.com info@artofmandarin.com.

Learn Chinese at home with Art of Mandarin Tutors L.L.C. We match students and early learners with New York City’s best Chinese tutors, and provide expert guidance throughout the learning experience. Our tutors are all locally-based and willing to travel to your neighborhood.

Lessons are structured to be fun and engaging while working toward clearly established goals.

And with discounts and incentives included in our lesson packages, your Mandarin Chinese language journey has never been more convenient or affordable.

Visit artofmandarin.com and get started today.

Atlantic Acting School

76 Ninth Ave., Suite 537 212-691-5919 atlanticactingschool.org teaster@atlantictheater.org

Atlantic For Kids & Teens, After-School and Saturday Programs: The After-School Program is a great introduction to storytelling, writing, acting, and improvisation. The Atlantic philosophy of ensemble and our commitment to creating your own work is deeply rooted in the creative acting experience for all age groups. The younger children create characters and stories through creative play and improvisational exercises while older children are introduced to the Atlantic Technique as they approach their first scene work and monologues. All classes culminate in a workshop performance at the end of each semester.

Bakshi Law

Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law. We represent parents and children with disabilities, acquire correct classification under IDEA, ensure proper implementation of IEP, ascertain correct placement for children, and tuition reimbursement. We attend CSE meetings, resolution meetings, suspension hearings, and all disciplinary hearings for special needs and general education students. Bakshi Law’s attorneys are passionate about your child’s education and offer assistance on a sliding scale for parents experiencing financial difficulties.

Ballet Academy East

1651 Third Ave. 212-410-9140 balletacademyeast.com Ballet Academy East offers classes to children and adults of all ages and levels. The Pre-Professional Division for ages 7-19 trains dancers for professional careers in ballet. Enrichment classes are open to students ages 7 and older who wish to study ballet less intensively. The Young Dancers Division offers pre-ballet, tap, and modern to ages 3-6.

In BAE’s Petit Dancers Program,

children ages 18 months to 2 years, along with their parents or caregivers, share the joy of music and dance. Adult classes for all levels are available in ballet, tap, Pilates, Zumba, and yoga.

Battery Park City Parks

212-267-9700 bpcparks.org Go fish! Saturdays, Sept. 10 and 24, and Oct. 15 from 10am-2pm at Wagner Park. Join experienced anglers in Wagner Park for catchand-release fishing and learn about life in the Hudson River.

Observe the day’s catch in aerated tanks and discover what you can do to steward the recovery of the Hudson. Enjoy bird-watching and learn how strategic plantings provide a resting spot for a variety of species during the spring and fall migrations. Family musical performances at Go Fish! this fall include Dan Zanes with Elizabeth Mitchell, Sonia De Los Santos, and The Suzi Shelton Band.

Battery Park City Parks

212-267-9700 bpcparks.org Battery Park City Parks Fall Programs at 6 River Terrace. Parent and Baby Yoga Mondays, Sept.

12-Oct. 31, from 1-2:15pm or 2:30-3:45pm; for parents and pre-crawling infants. Explorers’ Club Mondays, Sept. 12-Oct. 31, 4-5:30pm; for first-third grades. Chess Lessons for Children on Tuesdays, Sept. 13-Dec 13, Beginners: 3:30-4:15pm, Intermediate: 4:30-5:30pm.

Stories and Songs, Wednesdays, Sept. 14-Dec. 14, three 40-minute sessions: 9:40am-12pm; for children ages 6 months to 3½ years with accompanying caregiver. Indoor Preschool Play and Art Thursdays, Nov. 3-Dec. 15, 10-11:30am or 3:30-5pm; for walking toddlers with accompanying caregiver.

Battery Park Montessori

21 South End Ave. 212-235-2320 batteryparkmontessori.com admissions@greenivy.com Battery Park Montessori: Tucked away on the Hudson River with a garden terrace in South Battery Park City. The perfect setting for a modern Montessori education.

Students practice math, lan-

guage, music, science, and art in an individualized, child-centric elementary school preparatory program. Certified Montessori teachers spark individual passions and foster a lifelong love of learning. Our children cultivate their curiosity to know more and the confidence to ask meaningful questions while developing into brave, compassionate students.

Offering half-days for ages 2-3 and full-days for ages 3-6.

Blue Rock School

110 Demarest Mill Road, West Nyack 845-627-0234 bluerockschool.org Blue Rock School is the Lower Hudson Valley’s only progressive school, serving students in kindergarten-eighth grade. We offer a unique educational experience based on a hands-on and holistic approach that nurtures children’s innate love of learning, enabling them to follow their own natural curiosity and develop as independent thinkers. At Blue Rock, class sizes are small and students engage in a challenging and creative academic curriculum, which is infused with the arts, nature, and play.

Book Nook

167 W. 81st St. (at Amsterdam Avenue) 212-873-BOOK (2665) booknooknyc.com Book Nook is a year-round literacy development program for toddlers, preschoolers, and grade school children. Once a week, children, grouped by age from the youngest (Lil’ Hoots) up to kindergarten and first grade (Wise Owls), learn and develop skills to reach milestones in areas such as social learning, language and communication, and cognitive thinking.

Book Nook familiarizes students with content taught in public and private schools focusing on reading, writing, and language concepts. Each class is specifically formed based upon the child’s age and taught in a small group setting. Visit booknooknyc.com for more information.

Twin Parks Montessori Open House Events

Central Park

Park West

Oct 25th 9:30 am

Oct 20th 9:30 am

Riverside

Nov 1st

9:30 am

Nov 17th 9:30 am

Dec 6th 9:30 am

Jan 12th 9:30 am

1 West 91st Street New York, NY 10024 P (212) 595-2000

F (212) 595-0101

435 Central Park West New York, NY 10025 P (212) 678-6072 F (212) 678-1998

202 Riverside Drive New York, NY 10025 P (212) 665-1600 F (212) 665-1775

RSVP enroll@ twinparks.org

RSVP pwadmissions@ twinparks.org

RSVP admissions@ twinparks.org

Nov 16th 9:30 am Jan 18th 9:30 am

Twin Parks Montessori Schools are accredited by AMS, MSCES, and are members of ISAAGNY, NYSAIS, the Parents League and are affiliates of Columbia University.

Connect to Wildlife!

The Wildlife Conservation Society is offering new and engaging programs all year round for youth, families, adults and school groups!

Find an experience that’s right for you!

Adult Programs

Scout Programs

Birthday Parties

Summer Camp

Family Programs

Youth + Teen Experiences

Overnight Adventures

Zoo Play: Caregiver +

School Break Camps

Child Series

Bridge Community Playschool 250 E. 61st St. 646-281-0244 bridgeplayschool.org

For more information visit us at www.wcs.org/educators or call 800.433.4149

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admin@bridgeplayschool.org At Bridge Community Playschool children socialize and learn as they are guided through play-based, experiential activities by passionate teachers who understand the range of developmental levels of preschoolers. Small classes and a 4-to-1 student-teacher ratio affords each child the attention needed during these essential early years. Classes meet from 8:45am-12pm, four days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) with extended afternoon options until 2:30pm. BCPS is licensed and in compliance with staff regulations and certification requirements. Located in the heart of the city, Bridge Community Playschool embraces the cultural and religious differences of our vibrant community.

Bridge Golf Foundation

40 W. 117th St. 646-453-7488 bridgegolffoundation.org/bglc The Bridge Golf Learning Center is a year-round indoor home for golf located in Harlem.

We offer three junior programs: Bridge Junior Golf (ages 9-16), Bridge Pioneers (ages 4-8), and STEM Mini-Lab (ages 4-8).

Bridge Junior Golf and Bridge Pioneers introduces boys and girls to the fundamentals of golf and includes the use of our state-of-the-art technology.

Our STEM Mini-Lab students explore science, technology, engineering, and math through fun, golf-related, hands-on activities. All profits benefit The Bridge Golf Foundation, a 501(c)(3) with a mission to use golf to improve life outcomes for young men of color.

Bright Kids Inc.

917-539-4575 225 Broadway, Suite 1504, Downtown 177 E. 87th St., Suite 402, Upper East Side bright-kids.com t.kelly@brightkidsnyc.com Bright Kids is a full-service tutoring and publications company specializing in test prep and enrichment tutoring. We focus on a high-quality service paired with advanced technology to produce

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an unforgettable experience.

Bright Kids offers 1-to-1 options as well as small group classes and workshops. Each program typically begins with an assessment or diagnostic to determine a student’s strengths and areas of improvement. The evaluations team then uses the results of the assessment to help build a customized curriculum for each student. Register for a tutoring session for only $40!

The British International School of New York

20 Waterside Plaza 212-481-2700 x204 bis-ny.org info@bis-ny.org BIS-NY is proud to offer children ages 3-14 a challenging curriculum that combines the inquiry-based, child-centered philosophy of the International Baccalaureate Program with the rigor of the English National Curriculum; a powerful combination that sets it apart from other New York City schools. BIS-NY’s curriculum has been chosen for its high standards of excellence, its balance, and its portability, preparing children for their next stage of schooling. BIS-NY graduates have enjoyed great success at many of the leading private schools in Manhattan, Europe, and worldwide. More than a school; it’s an education.

The Calhoun School

433 West End Ave. 212-497-6500 Lower School 160 W. 74th St. calhoun.org The Calhoun School is a coeducational, progressive independent school on Manhattan’s Upper West Side serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Calhoun inspires a passion for learning through a progressive approach to education that values intellectual pursuit, creativity, diversity, and community involvement.

Capezio

Multiple locations throughout New York City 212-245-2130 capezio.com Capezio New York retail stores

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

are the one-stop location for all dance dress code needs. The stores are conveniently located throughout Manhattan, making them the destination shops for dozens of dance studios, schools, and performing arts centers. All Capezio retail locations stock an extensive collection of ballet slippers, pointe shoes, tap shoes, jazz shoes, leotards, tights, and legwarmers. Make sure to check out the stores’ extensive line of accessories and fashion items to coordinate with your basic selections. Experience the rich, 129year history that defines Capezio as the “Icon of Dance.”

at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan (212 W. 83rd St.): Explore arts and culture with a magical first museum experience in our early childhood classes.

We embrace play as a key to learning and take advantage of the museum’s interactive environments to engage young minds and prepare children for school. Our approach to teaching supports all learning styles from ages 14 months to 4 years. Fall classes begin Sept. 14. Learn more at cmom.org/classesforkids.

We also offer birthday parties themed around our popular exhibits! Visit cmom.org.

Cary Leeds Center Tennis Camp

City and Country School

The Cathedral School

Collina Italiana

1720 Crotona Ave., Bronx 718-247-7420 caryleedstennis.org caryleedsinfo@nyjtl.org The Cary Leeds Center offers a tennis curriculum for players ages 4-18 with all skill levels.

Depending on your child’s age and ability, we offer a full range of programs: 10U Pathway aims to develop the whole player, athletically, mentally, tactically, and technically from the beginning; Junior Pathway Program aims to develop the necessary tennis technique, improve consistency, and create basic patterns of play for effective point construction; Tournament Team: by invitation only. Evaluations are based on oncourt skills and point situations.

Applicants must be evaluated for proper placement in all programs.

A Classical Education for the Modern World 319 E. 74th St. 212-249-2840 cathedralschoolny.org info@cathedralschoolny.org Founded in 1949, The Cathedral School is a nursery-eighth grade coed day school that offers a rigorous academic education in an intimate learning environment.

Space is still available in select grades for the 2016-2017 school year. To inquire: contact info@ cathedralschoolny.org or call 212-249-2840.

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan

The Tisch Building, 212 W. 83rd St. 212-721-1223 cmom.org The Museum Preschool Program

146 W. 13th St. 212-242-7802 cityandcountry.org City and Country is a coeducational school for children ages 2-13. Founded in 1914, C&C is one of the oldest and most celebrated progressive schools in the country. Housed in seven brownstones including adjacent courtyards, C&C enjoys a lovely campus with abundant outdoor space, character, and natural light. Encouraged to question, problem-solve, and approach life’s challenges with optimism, City and Country graduates are confident, creative, resourceful, and compassionate. After-school programs give children of different ages the chance to work together on projects that may fall outside their usual classroom routines.

1556 Third Ave. (at 87th Street), Suite 603 212-427-7770 collinaitaliana.com info@collinaitaliana.com Set on the Upper East Side and in the Financial District, our Italian classes allow children to benefit from a comprehensive approach to learning in an age-appropriate and inviting atmosphere. Classes for kids include Giardino dei Bambini (drop-off on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 9am-12pm), Girotondo Giallo, Rosso, and Blu (ages 2-3, 4-5, and 6-8), Paint with Italian (Art Workshop), and private or semi-private tutoring. Children gather around to share learned words and expressions through playful, skill-building activities

such as games, songs, dances, and stories. For all the bellissimi details on Collina Italiana, call the Italian instructors today.

Creative Steps Early Care & Education Center

4 Washington Square Village, entrance on Mercer Street 212-982-2273 universitysettlement.org/ creativesteps creativesteps@ universitysettlement.org Creative Steps, located on NYU’s campus, offers a nurturing, culturally diverse community for families and children ages 12 months through 4 years. With the support of responsive adults and a low child-to-staff ratio, our child-centered, play-based approach to learning provides hands-on experiences for children to investigate topics under study, make choices, and initiate and direct their own play. Our curriculum is supported by enrichment programs in literacy, art, music, and yoga. We have easy access to well-maintained and safe outdoor playgrounds. UPK classroom, early drop-off, after-school, and summer camp offered.

The Diller-Quaile School of Music

24 E. 95th St. (between Madison and Fifth avenues) 212-369-1484 diller-quaile.org info@diller-quaile.org Since 1920, Diller-Quaile has been developing the innate musicality in each individual, inspiring participation for a lifetime. Diller-Quaile offers Early Childhood Classes (ages 3 months to 5 years); instrument and voice lessons, classes, and ensembles; adult programs; and teacher training/Dalcroze courses. Rug Concerts for young children, master classes, and faculty concerts occur throughout the year. Curricula emanate primarily from international folk music and classical music. Fall classes begin in September; visit diller-quaile.org to apply online.

Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools.

East Village Dance Project

55 Avenue C 212-982-5751 eastvillagedanceproject.com

eastvillagedanceproject@gmail.com East Village Dance Project, a dance education program for ages 4 through adult, is recognized for its innovative approach by offering classes to all, regardless of social or economic situation.

EVDP offers classes in ballet, pointe, modern, improvisation, and beginning choreography in a nurturing, community-minded environment. Through supportive and attentive instruction students develop proper alignment and a strong, expansive technique. The EVDP Teen Company is a pre-professional audition-based performance company that offers a platform for area teens to perform original, student-generated choreography as well as repertory from talented guest choreographers.

EBL Coaching

Dr. Emily Levy, director 17 E. 89th St., Suite 1D 212-249-0147 EBL Coaching One-on-One Home Tutoring 50 Main St., Suite 1000, White Plains 914-200-1320 Location in New Jersey as well eblcoaching.com/ one-on-one-tutoring-new-york-city EBL Coaching specializes in 1-on-1 home tutoring for students in pre-K to 12th grades in reading, writing, math, executive functioning, organizational skills, and test preparation. They use research-based, multi-sensory techniques that are individualized, based on the needs of each student. 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. Specialized instruction for students with learning disabilities and ADHD, including the Orton Gillingham methodology, is also available.

École Internationale de New York (EINY) 111 E. 22nd St. 646-410-2238 einy.org EINY is an independent, international, French-American school located in the Madison Square and Gramercy Park neighborhood. EINY offers an academic bilingual program in French and continued on next page ››

Battery Park Montessori

Where students practice all aspects of education through an individualized, child-centric program:

PRACTICAL

MATH

LANGUAGE

SENSORIAL

MUSIC

SCIENCE

ART

Visit us to learn more about our innovative elementary school preparatory program for children ages 2-6 years OPEN HOUSES: September 27, October 20, November 3, December 10, from 5:30-7pm

TOURS: Every Wednesday from 9:30-10:30am REGISTER ONLINE

21 South End Avenue | New York, NY 10280 212.235.2320 | BatteryParkMontessori.com

St. Luke’s School is

EXPANDING

OPEN HOUSE WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5 4:00 5:30 P.M. Founded in 1945 and located on a two-acre landmark block in the West Village. St. Luke’s School o ers a balanced and challenging Junior Kindergarten through Grade 8 curriculum that serves students of all faiths.

St. Luke’s School has a long history of preparing its students for the rigors of high school.

RSVP Required: 212-924-5960 or www.stlukeschool.org

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English from nursery to eighth grade offering Mandarin and Spanish as a foreign language.

EINY is fully accredited by the French Ministry of Education and is affiliated with the Mission Laïque Française. A faculty of certified teachers from France and the United States work to instill the rigor of the French curriculum and the American emphasis on independent thinking.

Einstein Blueprint

888-639-5512 einsteinblueprint.com dan@einsteinblueprint.com I coach the most ambitious parents on how they can unlock their kids’ full potential. Whether you want to accelerate your toddler, drastically improve your child’s grades, set them up to ace the SATs, or cultivate high quality extracurricular activities, I can most certainly help you. I especially work with parents who educate their kids completely outside of schools via private tutoring or home schooling. Call me for a free consultation, and I’ll reveal how I accelerate my students three, four, five, and even six years above grade level.

Elizabeth Seton Day Care and Preschool

245 E. 92nd St. 212-369-9626 nyfoundling.org Elizabeth Seton Day Care and Preschool consists of a Montessori-based, developmental program for ages 2 months to 5 years. Established in 1972 by The Foundling, Seton was one of the first centers of its kind in the New York area: a place where working families from diverse backgrounds could come for quality all-day child care in a group setting.

Our mission is to support the development of each child in a warm and nurturing atmosphere and to assist families by providing consistent and responsive child care in an enriching and educational environment.

Ellen Robbins Dance

Three Locations: Soho, Chelsea, and PMT Studio at 14th Street and Sixth Avenue 212-254-0286 ellenrobbinsdance.com dance_er@verizon.net

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Modern Dance classes with Ellen Robbins do what dance is supposed to do: train their bodies, enrich their minds, and set free their imaginations.

Ellen’s classes include technique, improvisation, and composition— the natural outcome of which is performance. At year’s end, students present their own solo compositions and participate in a group work choreographed

by Ellen. Each child’s unique talent and personality shine through. Register now for fall classes with New York’s most acclaimed modern dance teacher for children ages 5 through teens.

Soho, Union Square, and Chelsea areas. Call 212-254-0286 or visit ellenrobbinsdance.com.

Elora Theater Arts

917-533-2019 etanyc.com amelia@etanyc.com Elora Theater Arts is a budding educational theater company dedicated to bringing artistic excellence and empathy to a diverse community of NYC area students in the classroom, on stage, and in film. ETA workshops strengthen communication, cooperation, focus, and leadership skills, while encouraging students to work mindfully with their voices, bodies, and brains. We offer after-school classes, at multiple locations throughout NYC, from Teen Shakespeare to Pre-K Film Acting, and everything in between! Please check out our website for more information, etanyc.com, email amelia@etanyc. com, or call 917-533-2019.

Evolution Enrichment Preschool

38 Delancey St., 2nd Floor (enter from Forsyth Street) 212-375-9500 evolutionenrichment.com evolutionenrichment@gmail.com Looking for a preschool for your toddler? We offer a unique opportunity to enroll ages 2-3 in our exceptional private program in the Lower East Side. Our 15,000-square-foot early education center features bright and spacious classrooms with natural light, outdoor playground, dance studio, and an air-conditioned gym. Pre-K for All and After-school Program includes

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

options with Mandarin Explorers, FasTracKids, G&T Test Prep, Music Explorers, Yoga, and Come Play Preschool for infants.

Full-time, part-time, and half-day schedules available. Contact online: evolutionenrichment.com/ contact or call 212-375-9500 to schedule a tour.

First Presbyterian Church Nursery School

12 W. 12th St. 212-691-3432 fpcns.org First Presbyterian Church Nursery School was founded in 1952 in Greenwich Village. Our school offers a non-sectarian program, welcoming children and families of all configurations, religions, races, cultures, and economic backgrounds. FPCNS is dedicated to the development of the whole child in a warm and nurturing environment, offering experienced classroom teachers and specialists in studio, music, movement, gardening, and a healthy snack program. Extended day, enrichment programming, and a summer camp are available for 4s students. FPCNS has large, airy classrooms, a rooftop playground, and indoor play space.

Gateway School

211 W. 61st St., 6th Floor 212-777-5966 gatewayschool.org admissions@gatewayschool.org Founded in 1965, The Gateway School is an independent, coed day school for children ages 5-14 with language-based learning disabilities or attention deficit.

It was among the first schools in the country to recognize that bright children who had difficulty learning simply had to be taught differently. Gateway teaches the skills, strategies, and content necessary for students to realize their potential in school and in life. In a language-rich setting, students experience academic success, recognize their strengths, and develop self-advocacy skills.

German-American School: Where Kids Learn German

212-787-7543 german-american-school.org germanamericanschool@verizon.net Our German language program is recognized by The NY State Board of Regents and is designed to lead students toward success-

ful completion of the NY State FLAC exam. Our students take the exam at the conclusion of an eight-year program. Once the exam is passed, the student can be awarded three language credits from their high school. The focus of our school is to teach the German language to children from all backgrounds—our school attracts education-oriented parents who believe studying a second or third language can benefit their child. We also offer AP German and other nationally recognized exams.

Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School

147 St. Nicholas Ave. 212-866-4608 Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School is a free public charter school in Manhattan’s CSD 3 that provides students with the foundation to successfully pursue advanced studies and achieve continued personal growth as global citizens. We have two to three teachers in each class. We offer a nurturing, rigorous curriculum featuring intensive instruction in the Modern Hebrew language. Our social studies curriculum explores Israeli history and culture and Harlem’s history as a focal point of migration and immigration.

Like all public schools we are non-sectarian and do not teach religion. All are welcome!

Jennifer Hines

Voice and piano lessons jennifermezzo@aol.com Jennifer Hines holds three degrees from The Juilliard School and is a soloist with the Metropolitan Opera as well as many other operas in the U.S. and abroad.

She loves teaching children of all ages. She started voice and piano lessons at age 5 and feels that starting at a young age is beneficial to learning and understanding healthy technique. If bad habits are developed they can be extremely difficult to break. Music is so important. Ms. Hines loves to be a tiny part of bringing music into the lives of all children.

Hudson River Park Trust

Hudson River Park’s ECO Learn and Play Activities 353 West St., Pier 40, 2nd floor 212-627-2020

hudsonriverpark.org ikaley@hrpt.ny.gov Hudson River Park, in partnership with The New York Hall of Science, presents submerge—a free, day-long science extravaganza to celebrate local marine science and to raise awareness about our coastal waters. Enjoy hands-on science activities, catch-and-release fishing, science stage events, and kayaking. Interactive demonstrations will bring marine science and engineering topics to life, inspiring audiences of all ages. Saturday, Sept. 24 from 11am-4pm at Pier 26 (cross at North Moore Street).

Iken Science Academy

351 E. 74th St. 914-476-3876 ikenscienceacademy.com admin@ikenscienceacademy.com Exciting things are happening at Iken Academy, home to enrichment workshops for children ages 2½-5 years, full-day STEM program, after-school programming for school-age children with pick-up from local public and private schools within walking distance, summer camp, and

birthday parties! Come visit our state-of-the-art, beautiful facility on the Upper East Side. We are currently accepting registration for all programs. In September the Iken Stem Science Academy Nursery School will open in Jericho, Long Island offering Mommy and Me classes and a full-day or half-day nursery school following in the tradition of the Manhattan location.

Immaculate Conception School

419 E. 13th St. 212-475-2590 immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org info@ immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org Immaculate Conception School is dedicated to achieving excellence in learning from our 2-year-old program through eighth grade. Through high standards and a whole-child development approach, Immaculate Conception provides a safe and inspiring environment.

Children are constantly engaged and teachers work closely with families to ensure the success of our lifelong learners. We also offer after-school activities until

6pm to accommodate busy families. Call us today to schedule your tour: 212-475-2590.

JCC of Manhattan Nursery School

334 Amsterdam Ave. 646-505-4455 jccmanhattan.org/schoolage tshtulsaft@jccmanhattan.org JCC After-School offers a convenient pick-up service from many Upper West Side schools to the JCC. At the JCC, kids can participate in our After-School Clubhouse program, which includes snack, homework help, free play, and structured activities.

Kids can also take classes such as swimming, fencing, and taekwondo. We are also excited to announce new coding classes for kids at the JCC! For a full listing of class offerings, visit jccmanhattan.org/schoolage. For additional information, contact Tal Shtulsaft at ttshtulsaft@ jccmanhattan.org.

Jodi’s Gym

244 E. 84th St. 212-772-7633 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco

914-244-8811 jodisgym.com Jodi’s Gym has been providing New York kids the highest level of fun and fitness for more than three decades! Its step-by-step, no-fail approach ensures that every child feels a sense of accomplishment. It offers gymnastics (ages 3-12), Ninja Challenge (ages 4-8), Game On! (ages 3-5), parent and child gym, Music Together, summer and holiday break camps, free playtime and perks for members, private lessons, and the best birthday ever!

Kumon Math and Reading Centers 1-800-ABC-MATH (222-6284) kumon.com manhattan@kumon.com Kumon is a structured, proven self-learning program that gives your child the critical thinking skills and mindset to learn new materials independently. The key to Kumon programs is the individualized instruction, carefully planned by an instructor.

Regardless of academic level, your child will progress through the individualized instruction at

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Music & creative movement | Yoga, swimming & field trips | Bilingual staff, full-day & full-year

The Early Childhood Center at University Settlement 184 Eldridge Street, New York City (212) 453-4584 ecc@universitysettlement.org

Private & ACS enrollment for 3-year-olds now available!

Explore. Create. Engage.

Attend school like Kids & Teens from popular tv series and motion pictures. Flexible schedule, One-on-one academic tutoring, AP & replacement classes

Visit NYCPerformersAcademy.com or call 800.488.3878 BigAppleParent 55

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his or her own pace, advancing step by logical step. Kumon’s disciplined, worksheet approach to learning advances your child’s abilities in the classroom and throughout life.

La Escuelita

302 W. 91st St. 212-877-1100 laescuelitanyc.org info@laescuelitanyc.org Play, Learn,…Hablar! La Escuelita’s after-school programs are open to children with previous exposure to Spanish in kindergarten to third grades.

All programs are conducted 100-percent in Spanish. Fence with New Amsterdam Fencing on Mondays. Learn Capoeira, a Brazilian self-defense practice that incorporates live music and dance, with ABADÁ Capoeira Bronx on Tuesdays. Dance on Wednesdays, and receive Spanish Tutoring on Thursdays.

Programs run from 3:20-5pm; the first 40 minutes is reserved for free play or homework. Visit laescuelitanyc.org for more information and to register.

LiceXchange The No-Lip-Service Lice Service

Debra L. Rosen, owner and operator 917-657-0249 licexchange.com debrarosen@licexchange.com LiceXchange treats head lice exclusively in the privacy of your home as inexpensively as possible. Experienced, conscientious, and kind staff will put your children at ease applying all the tools of the trade without the use of pesticides! We stand by all our work, as long as “active” cases with lice follow our protocol.

Founder Debra L. Rosen, has been successfully caring for schools and camps throughout the tri-state region for more than 15 years, stressing “prevention” over treatment. LiceXchange, “Where an age-old problem gets the Royal Treatment.”

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

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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 The Little Gym is an exercise and motor development center offering gymnastics classes, sports skills development, dance, cheerleading, and karate classes for children ages 4 months to 12 years, in a loving, non-competitive environment. Qualified instructors implement programs designed to build self-esteem and confidence. An emphasis on music and fun encourages both physical and emotional growth.

The Little Gym also offers summer camp, holiday camp, Parent Survival Night, and Awesome Birthday Bashes.

The Mandell School

Upper West Side, Lincoln Square, West Village Preschool-eighth grade 775 Columbus Ave. 212-222-2925 150 Amsterdam Ave., Lincoln Square 212-580-4500 160 Christopher St., West Village 917-512-2500 mandellschool.org The Mandell Preschool, established in 1939, serves children ages 2-5. We nurture and engage our children through inquiry, exploration, and social emotional development, enabling them to become curious and joyous lifelong learners. Our exceptional faculty teaches with an awareness of the individuality of each child, incorporating collaboration, integrated curricular themes, project-based and hands-on experiential learning, with an emphasis on the whole child.

Our warm environment, small classes, and close community foster our children’s ability to take risks, explore new concepts, and discover the joy of mastery.

Montclare School

747 Amsterdam Ave. 212-865-4020 montclareschool.org info@montclareschool.org Nestled in a landmark building on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Montclare Children’s

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

School’s community plays a vital role in our school and in our children’s lives. Montclare’s dedicated, nurturing early childhood educators support our enriched, balanced curriculum and teacher-guided approach, promoting the highest levels of cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Enrichment includes our art studio, library, two gyms, climbing wall, Imagination Playground blocks, rooftop playspace, gymnastics, yoga, music, movement, and PE. Preschool programs are available for children ages 2-5, and our Toddler Program for ages 12-24 months.

Moving Visions Dance

Dance for Children & Teens at Moving Visions Dance Studio in Tribeca for more than 20 years.

19 Murray St., #4 212-608-7681 movingvisionsdance.com lthomasdance@aol.com Your child will greatly benefit from this joyous, healthy approach to dance. A unique dance experience, combining ballet with modern dance innovations, offering a well-rounded and seriously fun dance education.

The focus of Modern Ballet class is on strong technique, positive body awareness, and expanding creativity. Choreography students make dances they present in recitals. Classes are taught in our peaceful, lovely Tribeca loft studio by highly-experienced, inspired professional dancers whose enthusiasm and love of dance is infectious. Performance opportunities for older students.

Adult and professional programs too! movingvisionsdance.com.

New York Bilingual

Language community off-site classes: Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens 347-523-2784 newyorkbilingual.com info@newyorkbilingual.com “French, Spanish, and ESL, bilingual education is a lifestyle; speaking a new language is a life skill.” We offer home private classes, one to three students, morning or after-school classes, for beginners to advanced students of any age. New York Bilingual will bring the love of languages into your children’s lives and yours! Benefits: unlock

your child’s potential, improve homework and study discipline, inspire creative learning in speaking a new language, and create balance and well-being for your child with support, caring, and playful times during classes.

The New York International School

4 E. 90th St. 212-641-0260 nyis.org info@nyis.org The New York International School offers a world-class education for American and international families, from pre-nursery through eighth grade. Our program offers a challenging curriculum with an international perspective, the highest academic standards with a focus on attaining excellence in English, math, and science, and a dual-language immersion program in either Spanish or Mandarin.

New York Performers Academy

1384 Broadway, 17th Floor 800-488-3878 nycperformersacademy.org info@nycperformersacademy.com The New York Performers Academy is an innovative approach to private school education in the 21st century.

Attend school like kids and teens from popular TV series and motion pictures. Students and parents in need of flexible schedules, one-on-one academic tutoring, and AP and replacement classes will find them available at our exclusive middle and high school academy. Programs available for home-schoolers and students on independent study. Open enrollment throughout the year. Specializing in performing arts extracurriculars.

Scholarships available for gifted students who apply now.

Call 800-488-3878 or visit nycperformersacademy.com.

NYC Admissions Solutions

347-709-2258 nycadmissionssolutions.com info@nycadmissionssolutions.com Feeling anxious about applying to NYC schools? Not getting the individualized, expert attention you deserve? Don’t have countless hours to understand the ins and outs of the process?

Look no further. With exper-

Park East Day School

164 E. 68th St. 212-737-1196 parkeastdayschool.org A 40-year tradition of excellence in Jewish Day School education, combining the principles of Derech Eretz with rigorous, innovative, award-winning Judaic and general studies curricula.

Our synagogue is a part of our children’s daily lives as we incorporate traditional Jewish teachings while welcoming Jewish students of all backgrounds.

Pine Street School

25 Pine St. 212-235-2325 pinestreetschool.com admissions@greenivy.com For kids who want to make their mark! At New York City’s only Spanish and Mandarin immersion preschool-fifth grade IB World School, even the youngest students make amazing experiences happen every day. Part of a 5,000-school strong world class network, Pine Street School in FiDi inspires critical thinking and creative discovery to nurture

Ulster County Fairgrounds, Libertyville Road, New Paltz

016 l 2

917-697-8246 outcomesny.com info@outcomesny.com.

Regina Lombardi, M.Ed. is the director of OutcomesNY, a premier education company. Regina has more than a decade of teaching and tutoring experience.

Trained in Orton Gillingham methodologies, Regina is committed to helping children with school-based skills to not only be successful, but to feel successful.

OutcomesNY offers customized instruction to meet your child’s needs and goals. OutcomesNY offers help at home for children and is based in Manhattan and the Hamptons. Call or email today to schedule an appointment: 917-697-8246 or info@ outcomesny.com. Visit us on the web at outcomesny.com.

Sunday, September 18, 2016 11am - 5pm

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Preschool of America

2109 Broadway at 73rd Street 212-877-1388 101 West End Ave. at 64th Street 212-362-0135 25 Tudor City Place at 41st Street 212-681-4671 1190 Park Ave. at 93rd Street 212-410-1100 1501 Lexington Ave. at 97th Street 212-987-3700 345 W. 42nd St. at Eighth Avenue 212-262-4545 600 Sixth Ave. at 18th Street 212-255-6911 39 Eldridge St. at Canal Street 212-925-0998 25 Market St. at Henry Street 212-577-2710 46 Market St. at Madison Street 212-346-9868 2 South End Ave. at West Thames 212-786-1688 Preschool of America provides an exciting and safe learning environment for infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children.

We value the multicultural and diverse neighborhoods we serve.

With hands-on experiences and manipulatives, our students are learning social skills as they interact, and cognitive skills as they problem-solve. Our playgrounds and gyms allow an abundance of gross motor opportunities. Nutritious meals are provided daily for the growth of the body and mind. We are learning every day and having fun every minute.

SAY: Confident Voices

SAY: The Stuttering Association for the Young 55 W. 39th St. 828-393-4244 say.org; info@say.org SAY: The Stuttering Association for the Young offers Confident Voices, the after-school and weekend program that helps young people who stutter (ages 8-18) develop communication skills and self-confidence. Various sessions are offered during this yearround program, which utilizes a diverse range of creative themes, including storytelling, playwriting, songwriting, and more with continued on next page ››

pony rides, petting zoo, crafts, great food from local restaurants, craft beer & local spirits! learn more at tasteofnewpaltz.com

2016

26 years

FREE TREATMENT RESEARCH STUDY FOR CHILDREN

DOES YOUR 7-11 YEAR-OLD CHILD: Have a hard time sitting still?

Have difficulty paying attention?

Have trouble listening and following instructions?

Have difficulty focusing?

Constantly go, go, go?

The free treatment research study is evaluating whether a computerized brain training program will improve academic achievement, social skills, family functioning, and symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Parent and child must be fluent in English, the family must have a computer with internet access at home, and the child must be diagnosed with ADHD through the assessment conducted at our lab.

If you are interested, contact the FACES Lab (Families and Children Experiencing Success) Call: 212-992-7699 Email: faceslab@nyu.edu IRB#15-10524

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no pressure to perform. Youths collaborate in cohesive groups and are mentored by professional actors, producers, artists, and staff. This unique approach helps young people build important skills that help them succeed in their everyday lives.

Planning an Activity or Event for Children or Families?

The School at Steps

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Training the Dancers of Tomorrow...

2121 Broadway at 74th Street, 4th Floor 212-874-3678 stepsnyc.com/school theschool@stepsnyc.com The School at Steps cultivates young dancers, ages 18 months to 18 years, from their first step into a dance studio through their pre-professional training.

Students discover their individual artistic voices in a creative environment with the guidance of an internationally recognized faculty. Classes offered in ballet, pas de deux, tap, jazz, theater dance, hip-hop, character, Pilates, and stretch, with performance opportunities. School at Steps graduates go on to dance with professional companies, study at top college dance programs, and perform on Broadway. stepsnyc. com/school.

St. Luke’s School

Pre-K to eighth grades 487 Hudson St. 212-924-5960 stlukeschool.org sharriot@stlukeschool.org St. Luke’s School is a small, independent, coeducational day school located on a 2-acre landmark block in the West Village. It offers a balanced, yet challenging junior kindergarten through eighth grade curriculum that serves students of all faiths in preparation for rigorous high school placement. Its small size fosters a feeling of family—a supportive climate of trust and understanding, communicating values and building community where children learn to use their gifts in ways that help others.

Sutton Place Family Center

spsnyc.org/familycenter The Sutton Place Family Center’s 2016 expansion will be offering new classes this fall! Programs for infants and toddlers include Mommy & Me

Yoga, Little Maestros music, Toddler Program, and Kick & Play soccer. After-school programs for ages 2-6 include Super Soccer Stars, Little Maestros music, Cheflings cooking, and Music and Movement. For older children, we are pleased to be partnering with Writopia to offer creative writing workshops.

Teens will love hip-hop with renowned teacher Matt Lopez!

Finally, we are offering a socialization playgroup for children receiving EI/CPSE services.

Tribeca Language

22 Harrison St., ground floor 212-219-9893 tribecalanguage.com admin@tribecalanguage.com Tribeca Language has uncovered the secret to making language fun and immediately gratifying for students of all ages. We offer Baby & Me, Preschool Prep, as well as dropoff private and group children’s classes for ages 2-13. Come to a trial class and see why hundreds of private and public schools are now using our brilliant QTALK Method! See our website for videos, class schedule, and online registration.

Twin Parks Montessori Schools: Park West Montessori School

Park West 435 Central Park West 212-678-6072 pwadmissions@twinparks.org Riverside Montessori School 202 Riverside Drive 212-665-1600 admissions@twinparks.org Central Park Montessori 1 W. 91st St. 212-595-2000 enroll@twinparks.org twinparks.org One School. Three Campuses.

Twin Parks Montessori Schools are accredited by the American Montessori Society and the Middle States Commission on Elementary Education, are members of NYSAIS, the Parents League, and ISAAGNY, and are affiliate schools of Columbia University. Twin Parks Montessori Schools, with the glorious backyards of Central Park and Riverside Park, provide nurturing, child-centered settings for children ages 3 months to 6 years. The schools

Upperline

150 Broadway, 20th floor 646-653-2633 upperlinecode.com info@upperlinecode.com Learn to code this fall! Upperline School of Code is running beginner and intermediate weekend classes for high school students in New York City.

Students build their own web and mobile applications using real world tools and professional programming languages. Start your coding journey today with our amazing teachers and fun, interactive classes.

Wetherby–Pembridge School

wetherby-pembridge.org enquiries@alphaplusgroup.com Wetherby–Pembridge School opens in New York, September 2017, on the Upper East Side, next to Central Park on East 96th Street. It will bring to New York

Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zoos and Aquarium

Call our education “one-stop” shopping number for all parks: 1-800-433-4149 Central Park Zoo: 830 Fifth Ave. Queens Zoo 53-51 111th St., Queens Prospect Park Zoo 450 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn New York Aquarium 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn The Bronx Zoo 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx wcs.org Looking for something fun for your child to do on school holidays? Encourage them to learn about animals and science at one of New York City’s Zoos or Aquarium on their days off!

The Wildlife Conservation Society is excited to offer school break camps at the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, and New York Aquarium! Topics and dates vary across the facilities, so please call 800-433-4149 or visit wcs.org/educators for more information!

SAY: Confident Voices This life-changing NYC-based after-school & weekend program helps young people who stutter develop communication skills, self-confidence & friendships!

Learn more at: www.say.org/programs

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184 Eldridge St. 212-674-9121 universitysettlement.org The Early Childhood Center located on the Lower East Side is an Early Learn NYC Program serving Head Start and Child Care eligible children, ages 3-5, for preschool and UPK. The program runs all year from 8am-6pm.

School can be overwhelming. School choice doesn’t have to be.

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University Settlement

the rich traditions and academic excellence at the heart of its thriving UK schools. Wetherby-Pembridge School will offer a bespoke curriculum model combining the rigorous British National Curriculum with New York’s progressive student-centered teaching approach. Our vision is to awaken curiosity, cultivate high standards, celebrate successes, and encourage children to continually question and create in the world around them.

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are committed to building and fostering a community of lifelong learners using proven Montessori methodology, which has been successful for the past 100 years.

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New York's Premier Tutoring and Publications Company

Try a tutoring session for only $40 www.bright-kids.com • (646) 434-1084 • info@brightkidsnyc.com

ELIZABETH SETON DAY CARE and PRE-SCHOOL » Offers small groups with an excellent professional staff-child ratio

» Operates year round, 8 am to 6 pm, Monday – Friday

» Facility features library, large dining room, and

private outdoor playground (hot lunch prepared daily on-site)

» Montessori approach to children’s individual early developmental needs

» Diverse classrooms – HRA vouchers accepted

SPACES CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR 2 yr. olds – 6 yr. olds Please contact Terrye Morgan or Susan Pomilla at:

212-369-9626

245 E. 92nd Street, New York, NY 10128 https://www.nyfoundling.org/program/seton/

Dance for Children and Teens at Moving Visions Dance Studio in Tribeca for over 20 years A Wise Choice for Your Child’s Dance Education Seriously Fun Classes with Experienced, Inspiring Teachers

Modern Ballet – ages 3-16 Choreography class - ages 8-up Performance Workshop - ages 10 - 13 Professional Level Classes – ages 14 - 25 Contact us at: 212-608- 7681 • lthomasdance@aol.com www.movingvisionsdance.com BigAppleParent 59

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Battery Park Montessori

21 South End Ave. 212-235-2320 batteryparkmontessori.com admissions@greenivy.com Battery Park Montessori: Tucked away on the Hudson River with a garden terrace in South Battery Park City. The perfect setting for a modern Montessori education.

Students practice math, language, music, science and art in an individualized, child-centric elementary school preparatory program. Certified Montessori teachers spark individual passions and foster a lifelong love of learning. Our children cultivate their curiosity to know more and the confidence to ask meaningful questions while developing into brave, compassionate students.

Offering half-days for ages 2-3 and full days for ages 3-6.

Blue Rock School

110 Demarest Mill Road, West Nyack 845-627-0234 bluerockschool.org Blue Rock School is the Lower Hudson Valley’s only progressive school, serving students in kindergarten-eighth grade. We offer a unique educational experience based on a hands-on and holistic approach that nurtures children’s innate love of learning, enabling them to follow their own natural curiosity and develop as independent thinkers. At Blue Rock, class sizes are small and students engage in a challenging and creative academic curriculum, which is infused with the arts, nature, and play.

Book Nook

167 W. 81st St. (at Amsterdam Avenue) 212-873-BOOK (2665) booknooknyc.com Book Nook is a year-round literacy development program for toddlers, preschoolers, and gradeschool children. Once a week, children, grouped by age from the youngest (Lil’ Hoots) up to kindergarten and first grade (Wise Owls), learn and develop skills to reach milestones in areas such as social learning, language and communication, and cognitive thinking. Book Nook familiarizes students with content taught in public and private schools focusing on reading, writing, and language concepts. Each class is

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specifically formed based upon the child’s age and taught in a small group setting. Visit booknooknyc. com for more information.

Bridge Community Playschool

250 E. 61st St. 646-281-0244 bridgeplayschool.org admin@bridgeplayschool.org At Bridge Community Playschool children socialize and learn as they are guided through play-based, experiential activities by passionate teachers who understand the range of developmental levels of preschoolers. Small classes and a 4-to-1 student-teacher ratio affords each child the attention needed during these essential early years. Classes meet from 8:45am-12pm, four days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday) with extended afternoon options until 2:30pm. BCPS is licensed and in compliance with staff regulations and certification requirements. Located in the heart of the city, Bridge Community Playschool embraces the cultural and religious differences of our vibrant community.

The British International School of New York

20 Waterside Plaza 212-481-2700 x204 bis-ny.org; info@bis-ny.org BIS-NY is proud to offer children ages 3-14 a challenging curriculum, which combines the inquiry-based, child-centered philosophy of the International Baccalaureate Program with the rigor of the English National Curriculum; a powerful combination that sets it apart from other New York City schools. BIS-NY’s curriculum has been chosen for its high standards of excellence, its balance, and its portability, preparing children for their next stage of schooling. BIS-NY graduates have enjoyed great success at many of the leading private schools in Manhattan, Europe, and worldwide. More than a school; it’s an education.

The Calhoun School

433 West End Ave. 212-497-6500 Lower School: 160 W. 74th St. calhoun.org The Calhoun School is a coedu-

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

cational, progressive independent school on Manhattan’s Upper West Side serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Calhoun inspires a passion for learning through a progressive approach to education that values intellectual pursuit, creativity, diversity, and community involvement.

The Cathedral School: A Classical Education for the Modern World

319 E. 74th St. 212-249-2840 cathedralschoolny.org info@cathedralschoolny.org Founded in 1949, The Cathedral School is a nursery-eighth grade coed day school that offers a rigorous academic education in an intimate learning environment.

Space is still available in select grades for the 2016-2017 school year. To inquire: contact info@ cathedralschoolny.org or call 212-249-2840.

City and Country School

146 W. 13th St. 212-242-7802 cityandcountry.org City and Country is a coeducational school for children ages 2-13. Founded in 1914, C&C is one of the oldest and most celebrated progressive schools in the country. Housed in seven brownstones including adjacent courtyards, C&C enjoys a lovely campus with abundant outdoor space, character, and natural light. Encouraged to question, problem-solve, and approach life’s challenges with optimism, City and Country graduates are confident, creative, resourceful, and compassionate. After-school programs give children of different ages the chance to work together on projects that may fall outside their usual classroom routines.

EBL Coaching

Dr. Emily Levy, director 17 E. 89th St., Suite 1D 212-249-0147 EBL Coaching One-on-One Home Tutoring 50 Main St., suite 1000, White Plains 914-200-1320 Location in New Jersey as well. eblcoaching.com/ one-on-one-tutoring-new-york-city/ EBL Coaching specializes in 1-on-1 home tutoring for students in pre-K to 12th grades in

reading, writing, math, executive functioning, organizational skills, and test preparation. They use research-based, multi-sensory techniques that are individualized, based on the needs of each student. 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. Specialized instruction for students with learning disabilities and ADHD, including the Orton Gillingham methodology, is also available.

École Internationale de New York (EINY)

111 E. 22nd St. 646-410-2238 einy.org EINY is an independent, international, French-American school located in the Madison Square and Gramercy Park neighborhood. EINY offers an academic bilingual program in French and English from nursery to eighth grade offering Mandarin and Spanish as a foreign language.

EINY is fully accredited by the French Ministry of Education and is affiliated with the Mission Laïque Française. A faculty of certified teachers from France and the United States work to instill the rigor of the French curriculum and the American emphasis on independent thinking.

Einstein Blueprint

888-639-5512 einsteinblueprint.com dan@einsteinblueprint.com I coach the most ambitious parents on how they can unlock their kids’ full potential. Whether you want to accelerate your toddler, drastically improve your child’s grades, set them up to ace the SATs, or cultivate high quality extracurricular activities, I can most certainly help you. I especially work with parents who educate their kids completely outside of schools via private tutoring or home schooling. Call me for a free consultation and I’ll reveal how I accelerate my students three, four, five, and even six years above grade level.

Elizabeth Seton Day Care and Preschool 245 E. 92nd St.

212-369-9626 nyfoundling.org Elizabeth Seton Day Care and Preschool consists of a Montessori-based, developmental program for ages 2 months to 5 years. Established in 1972 by The Foundling, Seton was one of the first centers of its kind in the New York area: a place where working families from diverse backgrounds could come for quality all-day child care in a group setting.

Our mission is to support the development of each child in a warm and nurturing atmosphere and to assist families by providing consistent and responsive child care in an enriching and educational environment.

Gateway School

211 W. 61st St., 6th Floor 212-777-5966 gatewayschool.org admissions@gatewayschool.org Founded in 1965, The Gateway School is an independent, coed day school for children ages 5-14 with language-based learning disabilities or attention deficit.

It was among the first schools in the country to recognize that bright children who had difficulty learning simply had to be taught differently. Gateway teaches the skills, strategies, and content necessary for students to realize their potential in school and in life. In a language-rich setting, students experience academic success, recognize their strengths, and develop self-advocacy skills.

German-American School: Where Kids Learn German

212-787-7543 german-american-school.org germanamericanschool@verizon.net Our German language program is recognized by The NY State Board of Regents and is designed to lead students toward successful completion of the NY State FLAC exam. Our students take the exam at the conclusion of an eight-year program. Once the exam is passed, the student can be awarded three language credits from their high school. The focus of our school is to teach the German language to children from all backgrounds—our school attracts education-oriented parents who believe that studying a second or third language can benefit their child. We also offer AP German and other nationally recognized exams.

Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School

147 St. Nicholas Ave. 212-866-4608 Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School is a free public charter school in Manhattan’s CSD 3 that provides students with the foundation to successfully pursue advanced studies and achieve continued personal growth as global citizens. We have two to three teachers in each class. We offer a nurturing, rigorous curriculum featuring intensive instruction in the Modern Hebrew language.

Our social studies curriculum explores Israeli history and culture and Harlem’s history as a focal point of migration and immigration. Like all public schools we are non-sectarian and do not teach religion. All are welcome!

Iken Science Academy

351 E. 74th St. 914-476-3876 ikenscienceacademy.com admin@ikenscienceacademy.com Exciting things are happening at Iken Academy, home to enrichment workshops for children ages 2½-5 years, full-day STEM program, after-school programming for school-age children with pick-up from local public and private schools within walking distance, summer camp, and birthday parties! Come visit our state-of-the-art, beautiful facility on the Upper East Side. We are currently accepting registration for all programs. In September the Iken Stem Science Academy Nursery School will open in Jericho, Long Island offering Mommy and Me classes and a full-day or half-day nursery school following in the tradition of the Manhattan location.

Ballet, hip-hop, piano, guitar, rock band, painting cartooning and more!

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La Escuelita

302 W. 91st St. 212-877-1100 laescuelitanyc.org info@laescuelitanyc.org The first Spanish dual language preschool on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, and one of the first in NYC, La Escuelita has the experience and knowledge to fulfill its mission: the support of bilingualism in children from birth to third grade. La Escuelita offers a unique preschool experience to families who value bilingualism and playbased learning, while being encontinued on next page ››

Nursery through 8th grade (ages 3-13) French and American curricula with an international perspective Mandarin introduction in 3rd grade and Spanish in Middle School 3 campus locations around Madison Square Park OPEN HOUSE DATES September 28th 8:15am October 12th 8:15am

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TO SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR, VISIT EINY.ORG 111 East 22nd Street, New York , NY 10010 | 646.410.2238

BigAppleParent 61

‹‹ continued from previous page

gaged in a diverse and stimulating community. We encourage you to visit the school to see for yourself the wonderful opportunities that are created each and every day that reflect La Escuelita’s defining three core values.

The Mandell School

Upper West Side, Lincoln Square, West Village Preschool-Eighth grade 775 Columbus Ave. 212-222-2925 150 Amsterdam Ave., Lincoln Square 212-580-4500 160 Christopher St., West Village 917-512-2500 mandellschool.org The Mandell Preschool, established in 1939, serves children ages 2-5. We nurture and engage our children through inquiry, exploration, and social emotional development, enabling them to become curious and joyous lifelong learners. Our exceptional faculty teaches with an awareness of the individuality of each child, incorporating collaboration, integrated curricular themes, and project-based and hands-on experiential learning, with an emphasis on the whole child. Our warm environment, small classes, and close community foster our children’s ability to take risks, explore new concepts, and discover the joy of mastery.

Montclare School

747 Amsterdam Ave. 212-865-4020 montclareschool.org info@montclareschool.org Nestled in a landmark building on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Montclare Children’s School’s community plays a vital role in our school and in our children’s

lives. Montclare’s dedicated, nurturing early childhood educators support our enriched, balanced curriculum and teacher-guided approach, promoting the highest levels of cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

Enrichment includes our art studio, library, two gyms, climbing wall, Imagination Playground blocks, rooftop playspace, gymnastics, yoga, music, movement, and PE. Preschool programs are available for children ages 2-5, and our Toddler Program for ages 12-24 months.

The New York International School 4 E. 90th St. 212-641-0260 nyis.org; info@nyis.org The New York International School offers a world-class education for American and international families, from pre-nursery through eighth grade. Our program offers a challenging curriculum with an international perspective, the highest academic standards with a focus on attaining excellence in English, math, and science, and a dual-language immersion program in either Spanish or Mandarin.

New York Performers Academy

1384 Broadway, 17th Floor 800-488-3878 nycperformersacademy.org info@nycperformersacademy.com The New York Performers Academy is an innovative approach to private school education in the 21st century.

Attend school like kids and teens from popular TV series and motion pictures. Students and parents in need of flexible schedules, one-on-one academic tutoring, and AP and replacement

CA TECHNOLOGIES REHABILITATION CENTER Dedicated to the Care of Growing Kids

The CA Technologies Rehabilitation Center at Hospital for Special Surgery provides individualized pediatric rehabilitation for outpatients from birth to 18 years of age.

Pediatric Rehabilitation Services Offered: Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 212.606.1137 or visit www.hss.edu/pediatric-rehab.asp

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classes will find them available at our exclusive middle and high school academy. Programs available for home-schoolers and students on independent study.

Open enrollment throughout the year. Specializing in performing arts extracurriculars. Scholarships available for gifted students who apply now. Call 800-488-3878 or visit nycperformersacademy.com.

Pine Street School

25 Pine St. 212-235-2325 pinestreetschool.com admissions@greenivy.com For kids who want to make their mark! At New York City’s only Spanish and Mandarin immersion preschool-fifth grade IB World School, even the youngest students make amazing experiences happen every day. Part of a 5,000-school strong world class network, Pine Street School in FiDi inspires critical thinking and creative discovery to nurture academic resilience in young problem-solvers with a passion for doing big things. Students develop the knowledge, leadership skills, and character building behaviors that will shape the next generation of global thinkers and change makers.

Preschool of America

2109 Broadway at 73rd Street 212-877-1388 101 West End Ave. at 64th Street 212-362-0135 25 Tudor City Place at 41st Street 212-681-4671 1190 Park Ave. at 93rd Street 212-410-1100 1501 Lexington Ave. at 97th Street 212-987-3700 345 W. 42nd St. at Eighth Avenue 212-262-4545 600 Sixth Ave. at 18th Street 212-255-6911 39 Eldridge St. at Canal Street 212-925-0998 25 Market St. at Henry Street 212-577-2710 46 Market St. at Madison Street 212-346-9868 2 South End Ave. at West Thames 212-786-1688 Preschool of America provides an exciting and safe learning environment for infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children.

We value the multicultural and diverse neighborhoods we serve.

With hands-on experiences and manipulatives, our students are learning social skills as they in-

teract, and cognitive skills as they problem-solve. Our playgrounds and gyms allow an abundance of gross motor opportunities. Nutritious meals are provided daily for the growth of the body and mind. We are learning every day and having fun every minute.

Twin Parks Montessori Schools: Park West Montessori School

Park West 435 Central Park West 212-678-6072 pwadmissions@twinparks.org Riverside Montessori School 202 Riverside Drive 212-665-1600 admissions@twinparks.org Central Park Montessori 1 W. 91st St. 212-595-2000 enroll@twinparks.org twinparks.org One School. Three Campuses.

Twin Parks Montessori Schools are accredited by the American Montessori Society and the Middle States Commission on Elementary Education, are members of NYSAIS, the Parents League, and ISAAGNY, and are affiliate schools of Columbia University.

Twin Parks Montessori Schools, with the glorious backyards of Central Park and Riverside Park, provide nurturing, child-centered settings for children ages 3 months to 6 years. The schools are committed to building and fostering a community of lifelong learners using proven Montessori methodology, which has been successful for the past 100 years.

Wetherby–Pembridge School

wetherby-pembridge.org enquiries@alphaplusgroup.com Wetherby–Pembridge School opens in New York, September 2017, on the Upper East Side, next to Central Park on East 96th Street. It will bring to New York the rich traditions and academic excellence at the heart of its thriving UK schools.

Wetherby-Pembridge School will offer a bespoke curriculum model combining the rigorous British National Curriculum with New York’s progressive student-centered teaching approach. Our vision is to awaken curiosity, cultivate high standards, celebrate successes, and encourage children to continually question and create in the world around them.

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Courtesy Melissa Hilt

Healing Powers

››

What it’s like to provide your child with medical marijuana in New York. By Madeleine Burry

T

wice a day—once with breakfast, and once again at dinner— Melissa Hilt administers medicine to her 9-year-old daughter, Haley. Hilt uses a syringe to measure out a precise dosage, and gives it to Haley mixed in her food. It’s a normal, everyday scene for a child who needs medication, with one big difference: The medicine Haley is ingesting is a coconut oil compound that contains extract from the marijuana plant. A resident of East Schodack in Rensselaer County, Haley is among the first New York residents to take advantage of the state’s recent legalization of medical marijuana.

Haley has severe intractable epilepsy. She can’t walk or talk, and is incontinent. Her first seizure was at 4 weeks old; since then, she seized at least once daily. But in the months since Haley started taking medical marijuana, she’s improved tremendously. “Within 24 hours of her first dose,” Hilt says, Haley “was more alert, bright in the best way.” She has just two or three seizures each week, compared to the seven to 10 she experienced prior to the drug.

Before she began taking medical marijuana, “we were never really sure what Haley knew, and what she didn’t.” Now, she’s able to communicate using an eye gaze computer. Hilt describes Haley as making “huge, huge gains” due to the medication. Haley can now stand on her feet and even ride a tricycle at school. In fact, “she loves to stand with support and dance,” her mom says. With the help of a walker-like device, Haley can walk down the hallways at school.

Haley is able to legally take medical marijuana thanks to New York’s legalized medical cannabis program, which took effect at the beginning of this year. New York joins the District of Columbia and 24 other states—including Connecticut and New Jersey— which have passed laws allowing use of marijuana in some form for medical purposes. The new laws, in addition to those in a handful of states that have legalized or reduced punishment for recreational marijuana use, come as public opinion has shifted dramatically. A 2015 survey from the Pew Research Center found that 53 percent of people believe marijuana should be legalized. That may seem like a slim majority—and it is—but just a decade ago, in 2006, a similar survey from Pew found that only 32 percent believed marijuana should be legalized.

Risks, Side Effects—And Benefits

Still, if you came of age in the unequivocal “Say no to drugs” era, when marijuana was labeled a gateway drug, the idea of children being recommended medical marijuana may cause trepidation. Hilt, however, has no regrets or reservations about the treatment method for Haley. Side effects are familiar to Haley: Steroid injections caused a heart murmur; a special high-fat diet aimed at reducing seizures caused Haley to go into liver failure; benzodiazepine, a tranquilizer used to reduce seizures, “zombified” Haley. Once, a medication caused her to sleep for 72 hours straight. In contrast, the coconut oil compound that’s used as a delivery agent for the cannabis treatment can sometimes cause Haley to get constipated. “When you’re looking 64

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Haley Hilt, a 9-year-old whose quality of life has improved dramatically since she started taking medical marijuana after it was legalized in New York

at the side effects of the other medications that are out there, it’s nothing in comparison. Honestly, part of me wishes I could have tried it before we put her little body through all of these horrible things, to see if it would have worked then,” Hilt says.

The American Academy of Pediatrics sounds a more cautionary note. In a policy statement issued in March 2015, the AAP points out that there is ample documentation on “the adverse effects of marijuana” on adolescents as well as a lack of “published studies on the use of medicinal marijuana or pharmaceutical cannabinoids in pediatric populations.” As well as all the well-known side effects— including reduced attention span, short term memory, coordination, and judgment—the AAP also points out that “new research has also demonstrated that the adolescent brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex areas controlling judgment and decision-making, is not fully developed until the mid-20s, raising questions about how any substance use may affect the developing brain.”

Still, while opposing medical marijuana outside of the oversight and regulation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “the AAP recognizes that marijuana may currently be an option for cannabinoid administration for children with life-limiting or severely debilitating conditions and for whom current therapies are inadequate.”

Against this backdrop of increased accessibility of medical marijuana, at least in some states, the federal government continues to classify marijuana as a Schedule I drug, alongside LSD, heroin, and ecstasy. The Drug Enforcement Agency defines these drugs as having “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” These Schedule I drugs are considered “the most dangerous.” It’s an undeniably complex landscape, and this, perhaps, is why New York’s medical marijuana program has been implemented with tight regulations.

Stephen Dahmer, M.D., the Chief Medical Officer at Vireo Health of NY, one of five organizations approved to dispense

medical marijuana in the state, agrees that there are undeniable risks involved with medical marijuana. “Any physician that reads the literature about children or anyone under 21 and THC [a part of the marijuana plant] knows that caution has just been amplified a thousandfold,” he says. But for children such as Haley—people with intractable disease and extreme pain and discomfort—these risks may be worth it. “When these children arrive at our dispensary, this is one of their last hopes,” Dr. Dahmer says.

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New York’s Cautious, Medical-Led Program

How do children—or any patients—get to Vireo or the other dispensaries in New York? The journey isn’t easy. The first New York dispensaries opened in January 2016. You may be imagining storefronts festooned with decorative marijuana leaves, Mason jars stuffed full of pot, boxes of pre-rolled joints, or plastic-wrapped cannabis-laced cookies, brownies, and other edibles. Erase that image: New York’s implementation of legalized medical cannabis differs sharply from states with more lenient, and lower regulated, programs (ahem, California). In New York state, no wink-wink, nudge-nudge diagnosis will get you access to medical marijuana. The program is tightly regulated and cautious. Dr. Dahmer describes New York’s program hewing “very closely to a medical model.”

Vireo’s work with doctors, and the state’s program, mimics the general practices that govern doctors’ habits and style, Dr. Dahmer says. “Anything we do—in our practice, and oftentimes in our lives—is done with a lot of caution. We want to always take the safest route…and make sure that our patients are protected and that some unforeseen circumstance doesn’t catch us by surprise.”

Haley’s Path to Medical Marijuana

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In her two daily doses, Haley takes what is known as a “high CBD, low THC” strain of marijuana. CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is non-psychoactive, and cultivated for its pain-relieving, antiinflammatory qualities, while THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the mind-altering part of the marijuana plant. Put another way, THC is the part of the marijuana plant that makes you feel stoned while CBD is the medicinal part of the plant.

Several years ago, Hilt became interested in the possibility of medical marijuana as a treatment option for Haley: Her family doctor had watched a special about Colorado’s Stanley brothers, famous for creating a high CBD, low THC strain called Charlotte’s Web, that reduced its namesake’s seizures.

This prompted Hilt to begin researching how high CBD strains could help people with epilepsy. A registered nurse, Hilt read the research carefully, and then began lobbying at the capital.

For more than six months, “we were lobbying and trying to get senators to listen to us and support our cause,” Hilt remembers.

Hilt and her daughter were there the day the program passed, and when the program went live on a Friday, Haley was certified the following Wednesday. Because Haley was on a form of benzodiazepine that’s affected by CBD, Haley had to decrease her dosage of benzodiazepine before she could begin taking medical marijuana. She began taking the high CBD, low THC strain in February. The transformation has been huge: “She is soaring,” says Hilt. “Haley is doing phenomenally.”

What’s Next?

Medical cannabis remains—even after legalization in many states— in a complicated position. Laws differ from state to state, even in ones that have legalized the plant. Federally, it remains illegal, continued on next page ››

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‹‹ continued from previous page Courtesy Melissa Hilt

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Melissa Hilt holds Haley in the New York State Senate chambers on the day that legislators voted to legalize medical cannabis.

even if the government’s guidance is essentially to prosecute major offenses (drugged driving or possession on federal property, for instance) and to allow states to enforce their own regulation.

That makes for an uneasy balancing act, with results that can be frustrating. For one, medical marijuana, still illegal federally, is not covered by insurance. Hilt pays for Haley’s medical marijuana— which costs nearly $400 a month—with the help of fundraising done by her church and community.

Beyond the expense, Hilt chafes at the federal government’s slow move to reclassification, which would allow drug trials, and feels frustrated that truly sick people cannot get access to a potentially helpful drug. “It’s almost like we’re being held hostage to the pharmaceutical companies when there’s this plant out there that can really and truly help so many people.”

And while the AAP opposes legalization, concerned that it will increase children and teen’s access to the drug, the organization also advocates for studying the impact of new laws, and calls for marijuana to be reclassified as a Schedule II drug (a classification that includes Adderall, OxyContin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, among others). This classification would allow “research and development of pharmaceutical cannabinoids and supports a review of policies promoting research on the medical use of these compounds.” Dr. Dahmer says he is also “interested in helping to support or promote research,” especially given the tremendous impact he sees daily on children and their families.

For parents whose children face one of the 10 eligible conditions, Hilt’s advice is twofold. First, educate yourself.

“That’s the number one recommendation I have for other parents,” Hilt says. Dig into the slim research currently available,

review anecdotal evidence, and reach out to dispensaries for their insights. And then, “Fight for your kid.” Medical marijuana is “not something our government should say we can or can’t have. This is something our physicians should determine, not the government.

Call your legislators, call your senator, and tell them, I want this available for myself, for my children, for whomever.”

A SNAPSHOT OF NEW YORK’S MEDICAL MARIJUANA LAW

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Only some conditions are eligible: Only 10 conditions (as well as several associated conditions) make patients eligible for a medical marijuana recommendation. They are: • Cancer • HIV infection or AIDS • Multiple sclerosis • Spinal cord injury with spasticity • Epilepsy • Inflammatory bowel disease • Neuropathy • Huntington’s disease • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) • Parkinson’s disease A stringent registration process: Even patients who suffer from those conditions do not have an easy path to a recommendation.

Only registered doctors—who meet certain set criteria, and have taken a four-hour class—can register with New York’s Medical Marijuana Program and recommend marijuana. Fewer than 600 doctors had done so by mid-July, according to the state. Patients have to either find one of these doctors (there is a registry, but doctors are not required to add their names to it and some prefer to keep their participation quiet) or ask their doctor to join the program. Only then can patients get a recommendation. Currently, there are more than 5,000 patients certified.

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Madeleine Burry is a Brooklyn-based freelance writer and editor, covering everything from parenting to open data to workplace productivity. She’s held staff positions at Parents.com, Scholastic, and About.com. You can follow her on Twitter @lovelanewest.

BigAppleParent 67

OPENHOUSES 2016 Abrons Arts Center Arts Classes at Henry Street Settlement

466 Grand St. 212-598-0400 abronsartscenter.org henrystreet.org info@henrystreet.org Join us at our open house on Sept. 17 from 9am-5pm. Enjoy refreshments, performances, and take a sample class!

Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens

Pearl Studios, 500 Eighth Ave., 4th Floor 917-763-1777 actorstechniqueny.com Free sample on-camera and musical theater classes in NYC! Sept. 10, 18, 24, and 25.

Register at actorstechniqueny.com under classes.

Battery Park Montessori

21 South End Ave. 212-235-2320 batteryparkmontessori.com admissions@greenivy.com The perfect setting for a modern Montessori education. Open houses from 5:307:30pm at 21 South End Ave., on Sept.

27, Oct. 20, Nov. 3, and Dec. 10. Visit batteryparkmontessori.com.

The British International School of New York

20 Waterside Plaza 212-481-2700 x204 bis-ny.org info@bis-ny.org We warmly welcome families considering application for the 2017 school year to join us at our stunning waterside campus on 23rd Street to discover just what makes BIS-NY so special. Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 6pm.

The Calhoun School

433 West End Ave. 212-497-6500 Lower School 160 W. 74th St. calhoun.org Join us on Friday, Sept. 23 from 9-10:30am at 160 W. 74th St. for an admissions open house for prospective 3s to second-grade parents. RSVP required.

Cary Leeds Center Tennis camp

1720 Crotona Ave., Bronx 718-247-7420 caryleedstennis.org caryleedsinfo@nyjtl.org Open house and evaluations, Saturday, Sept.

68

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

24, 9am–1pm, ages 4-18. Fall and winter programs start the week of Oct. 17.

Evolution Enrichment Preschool

38 Delancey St., 2nd Floor (enter from Forsyth Street) 212-375-9500 evolutionenrichment.com evolutionenrichment@gmail.com Open house: Sept. 13 at 4:30pm. Come for a free demo of Music Together with your infant or toddler (18 months to 2 years) and learn about our Come Play Preschool program.

Immaculate Conception School

419 E. 13th St. 212-475-2590 immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org info@immaculateconceptionschoolnyc.org Join us Tuesday, Oct. 11, at 9am for our open house. We offer a Tiny Two Program through eighth grade. Contact early childhood director, Kaitlyn Bozzello, at k.bozzello@immaculateconceptionschoolnyc. org, or 212-475-2590 to RSVP.

Montclare School

747 Amsterdam Ave. 212-865-4020 montclareschool.org info@montclareschool.org Join us for an open house: Sept. 13, 16, 22, 27, and 30, 9-10am; Oct. 6, 6-7pm; Oct. 19, 9-10am; Nov. 3, 9-10am; Nov. 10, 6-7pm; Nov. 30, 9-10am; or Dec. 9, 9-10am.

New York Performers Academy

1384 Broadway, 17th Floor 800-488-3878 nycperformersacademy.org info@nycperformersacademy.com New York Performers Academy: an innovative approach to private school education. Attend school like kids and teens from popular TV series and motion pictures. Scholarships available for gifted students. Call 800-4883878 or visit nycperformersacademy.com

Park East Day School

164 E. 68th St. 212-737-1196 parkeastdayschool.org Join is for an open house on Sept.

27 at 9:30am. RSVP to: debbie@ parkeastdayschool.org.

Pine Street School

25 Pine St. 212-235-2325 pinestreetschool.com

admissions@greenivy.com NYC’s only Spanish and Mandarin immersion preschool-fifth grade IB World School.

Open houses from 5:30-7:30pm at 25 Pine St.: Sept. 29, Oct. 13 and 27, Nov.10, and Dec. 15. Visit pinestreetschool.com.

St. Luke’s School

Pre-K to eighth grades 487 Hudson St. 212-924-5960 stlukeschool.org sharriot@stlukeschool.org Please join us Oct. 5 from 4-5:30pm. You will have a chance to hear from current students and meet faculty, parents, division heads, and the head of school. Space is limited; RSVP required.

TADA! Youth Theater

15 W. 28th St. (at Broadway) 212-252-1619 tadatheater.com info@tadatheater.com Learn all about TADA!’s semester-long musical theater skills-building curriculum! Join us on Saturday, Sept. 10 to sample a class and ask questions with two of TADA!’s teaching artists. RSVP at tadatheater.com.

Twin Parks Montessori Schools: Park West Montessori School

Park West 435 Central Park West 212-678-6072 pwadmissions@twinparks.org Riverside Montessori School 202 Riverside Drive 212-665-1600 admissions@twinparks.org Central Park Montessori 1 W. 91st St. 212-595-2000 enroll@twinparks.org twinparks.org Open house events: Central Park: Oct. 25, Nov. 1, and Dec. 6 at 9:30am; RSVP enroll@twinparks.org. Park West: Oct. 20, Nov. 17, and Jan. 12 at 9:30 am; RSVP pwadmissions@twinparks.org. Riverside:, Nov. 16 and Jan. 18 at 9:30am; RSVP pwadmissions@twinparks.org.

Wetherby–Pembridge School

wetherby-pembridge.org enquiries@alphaplusgroup.com Open house events will be on Oct. 5 and 27 from 5:30-7:30pm. To register for a place, please contact: enquiries@ alphaplusgroup.com.

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FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Please Call Us at (917) 244-5161 www.homeostasispsychology.com BigAppleParent 69

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

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MUSIC Amas Musical Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Diller Quaile School of Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Hudson River Park Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Hines, Jennifer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING Abrons Art Center / Henry Street Settlement . . 61 Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens . . . . . . . . 65 Atlantic Acting School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 East Village Dance Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Ellen Robbins Dance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Moving Visions Dance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 New 42nd Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 School of Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 The New York Performers Academy . . . . . . . . 55 RELIGIOUS First Presbyterian Church Nursery . . . . . . . . . 63 Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Immaculate Conception School . . . . . . . . . . . 33 JCC of Manhattan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 St. Lukes School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 RETAIL Hall, Kristin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Massage Envy Spa - Midtown West . . . . . . . . 41 NCircle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 SPECIAL EVENTS Hudson River Park Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 New York Road Runners Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 SPECIAL NEEDS Bakshi Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 FACES Lab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Gateway School, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Hospital for Special Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 SAY: Confident Voices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 SPORTS Ballet Academy East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Bridge Golf Foundation (The) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Capezio / Ballet Makers Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning . . . . 33 New York Road Runners Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 The School at Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 THEATER Actor’s Technique NY Kids & Teens . . . . . . . . 65 Amas Musical Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Atlantic Acting School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 New 42nd Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 School of Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 TUTORS Bright Kids Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Einstein Blueprint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Kumon North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 New York Bilingual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 NYC Admissions Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Outcomes NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Upperline, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

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