Bergen Rockland Parent July 2019 by City Guide NY

Annual

2019-2020

Resource Guide Bergenâ&#x20AC;¢RocklandParent

NYMetroParents.com

CLASSES

CAMP

EDUCATION

CHILD CARE

SPORTS

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

SPECIAL NEEDS

HEALTH

BIRTHDAY

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

RocklandParent

EXCELLENT DOCTORS EXCEPTIONAL CARE

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ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS When you need world-class orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine specialists, podiatrists, diagnostic imaging and physical or occupational therapy, put yourself in skilled hands at Crystal Run Healthcare.

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When pain or injury strikes you and your family, it’s essential to make the right choice. That’s why Crystal Run Healthcare offers a dynamic orthopedic team who have trained and honed their expertise at the greatest orthopedic centers in America. They are able to reset, repair, replace and revitalize simple or complex bone, joint, or muscle conditions. Our comprehensive team also includes an Orthopedic Oncologist and Trauma Surgeon should you or a loved one ever need it. Crystal Run Healthcare brings you a world-class healthcare practice, comfortably close to home.

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Pictured: Daphne E. Pinkas, MD (Orthopedic Surgery, Shoulder & Elbow Surgery), James Giordano, MD (Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine)

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6/4/19 10:15 AM

RocklandParent

contents table of

july 2019

all-in-one annual resource guide 20 Food & Health Directory

24 Bithday Party Directory 34 Camp Directory 37 Education Directory 39 Classes Directory

Seasonal Fun Guide

The top 20 things to do each season in your area

Family Activities Calendar

Find something to do everyday this month!

39 Sports Directory 41 Special Needs Directory

43 Services Directory

Fear Factor

Learn why this mother lets her son watch scary movies.

raising kids

things to do

checklists

6 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 46 Meet the Health Care Professional 48 Party Planner 49 Advertisersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Index 50 Fear Factor

10 Top 20 Things to do in the Summer

18 Your Hospital Go-Bag

12 Top 20 Things to do in the Fall

19 What to Ask When Choosing a Pediatrician

14 Top 20 Things to do in the Winter

22 Tips to Host a Birthday Party

16 Top 20 Things to do in the Spring

33 Camp Packing Lists

27 Family Activities Calendar

35 Make the Most of a Parent-Teacher Conference 36 The Essential College Visit and Interview Checklist 38 5 Time Management Tips for Kids 40 What to Do After Diagnosis 42 How to Treat Common Stains 44 8 Things to Do When You Move

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

Happy. Healthy. Loved. These are the dreams we have for our children. So we cherish the moments when little giggles fill the room, imaginations take us on great adventures, and when it seems our hearts could burst with pride and love. Here and now, we’d stop time if we could. Because when kids are being kids, we all feel better.

Let’s get every child covered. If your child needs health insurance, Fidelis Care is just a call, click, or visit away.

Call: 1-888-FIDELIS Click: fideliscare.org/everychildcovered Visit: A Fidelis Care community office near you. Search for locations at fideliscare.org/offices

1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547)

TTY: 711

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

RocklandParent

raising kids editor’s note JULY 2019 • Vol.12 • No.10

Your Year-Round, Go-To Resource

ediatricians, schools, summer camps, tutors and test prep, orthodontists and dentists, and after-school classes and academic enrichment programs and sports and, and, and… It seems as though the list of resources we need to ensure our children are happy, healthy, and on the path to success goes on and on. Let’s not forget how much time you spend finding the perfect class, doctor, camp, or school for your child. We get it. Making choices for your children can be daunting: Is this the best class for my son? Will my daughter thrive at this camp? Will this school offer the right support for him? Does this doctor listen to my concerns? The solution to help you make the best decisions for your family is at your fingertips— literally! The Rockland Parent Annual Resource Guide is full of the schools, camps, afterschool classes, health care providers, special needs services, and everything in between that you’re looking for year-round. What’s more, you’ll also find checklists and listicles full of tips to make life easier. Learn what to put in your go-bag if you’re having a baby soon (p. 18), what to send your child to camp with (p. 33), and what to do after your child’s diagnosed with special needs (p. 41). Other helpful advice includes time management tips for kids (p. 38), questions to ask during a parent-teacher conference (p. 35), what to ask on a college tour (p.36), and easy ways to remove common stains from clothing (p. 42). Let’s not forget about the most important decisions, though: how to spend time together as a family. Enter the Seasonal Fun Guide (p. 10), full of the top 20 things to do in Rockland County each season. Here’s to a relaxing summer full of fun camp days for your kids and spending time together as a family!

Katelin Walling Editorial Director Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

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

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

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

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

MOMMYBITES

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

OPERATIONS

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

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

Free Birthday Gifts for Your Kids!

MARKETING ss ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Kristine Pulaski FINANCE

CREDIT MANAGERS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group

Local businesses are celebrating the birthdays of children in our community. Once you enroll your child in the birthday club, they’ll receive gift certificates to have fun at these participating businesses: • Bounce! Trampoline Sports in Valley Cottage • New City Bowl and Batting Cages • Palisades Climb Adventure in West Nyack • Jill’s Ceramics in West Nyack • Chocolatier Matisse in Orangeburg

davlermedia.com

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

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN • ROCKLAND PARENT, STATEN ISLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2019, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

Informed by research, Green Meadow Waldorf School’s media policy limits screen time for children under age 11 and supports mindful use in older students. Our cutting-edge educational methods are everevolving and based on nearly 100 years of child observation.

Does your child’s school have a media policy? “Technologists know how phones really work, and many have decided they don’t want their own children anywhere near them...A wariness that has been slowly brewing is turning into a regionwide consensus: The benefits of screens as a learning tool are overblown, and the risks for addiction and stunting development seem high.” –A Dark Consensus About Screens and Kids Begins to Emerge in Silicon Valley, The New York Times, 10/26/18 © JOSEPH REGAN

As an independent school, we are free from the Common Core curriculum and standardized testing and offer an affordable, child-centered education. Our graduates leave our closeknit community to go on to top colleges and universities, where they are known for their resilience and creativity, and for embodying 21st-century capacities including curiosity and collaboration. We are one of the oldest and largest Waldorf schools in the US, serving about 300 students from Nursery through 12th grade. Our wooded 11-acre campus, adjacent to a farm and forest, is located in Rockland County, NY.

NYC busing begins in September 2019 for all grades

gmws.org RocklandParent

Courtesy Lipson Family Coaching

raising kids new places, new programs

Family Coaching Practice Opens in New City Who: Lipson Family Coaching Inc. What’s New: The practice, which opened in June. Melissa Lipson, professional school guidance counselor and founder of Lipson Family Coaching Inc., works with children and teens to give them tools that are transferable to all aspects of their lives. Using a variety of strategies and techniques, she teaches important life skills that empower children to protect their emotional well-being and function at their best now and in the future. Lipson offers one-time coaching sessions as well as lengthier packages that can last up to 12-weeks depending on the client’s need. Lipson’s background as a counselor gives her unique tools and an extensive network in Rockland County with which she can help families. Want More Info: 914-649-6923; lipsonfamilycoaching.com

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Melissa Lipson, founder of Lipson Famil y Coaching, has been a school counselor in Nanuet for over 20 years and she is expanding her services beyond the district.

World’s Tallest Indoor Ropes Challenge Course!

Classes begin June 27th !

End of Summer Kids Club drop offs! Mon, Aug 26th, to Thurs, Aug 29th 9:30am–12:00 or 1:00pm–3:00pm

$30 per session

Happy BEE Day!! Reserve your PRIVATE Birthday Party with us.

85 FEET TALL 5 LEVELS OF FAMILY FUN 74 CHALLENGES TO CONQUER SKY TYKES COURSE FOR TODDLERS GROUPS • BIRTHDAY PARTIES • CAMPS

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401 Market Street Nanuet, NY

50% OFF PALISADES CLIMB When you purchase one at full price Not to be combined, excludes holidays

RocklandParent

SEASONAL FUN!

Top 20 Things to Do in the

17 Cliff Matias

Courtesy Rockland Boulders

r e m Sum

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

1. Sweet Summer

Gather your brood and pick your own berries at Ochs Orchard in Warwick (in nearby Orange County) or another berry farm in the area. Find the full list at nymetroparents.com/berries.

2. Go for a Spin

Take a ride on the carousel in Bear Mountain State Park (located on the southwest side of the baseball field), where kids can hop on the backs of some local animals or ride in the accessible chariot. Find another merrygo-round near you at nymetroparents.com/carousels-suburbs.

3. Strawberry Celebration

The popular annual Strawberry Festival kicks off opening day at the Ramsey Farmers’ Market in Ramsey, NJ, in early June. Shop for fresh, local produce as well as artisan breads and cheeses, gluten-free baked products, homemade pastas, local honey, and more. Also enjoy music, children’s crafts, and a complimentary strawberry treat. Check ramseyfarmersmarket.org for details.

4. Fore!

Play the 18-hole miniature-golf course at Tappan Golf Center (116 Route 303, Tappan), which also boasts a driving range, batting cages, and gokarts. Or test your putting skills at another course in the area (see our guide at nymetroparents.com/minigolf).

5. Cast Your Line

See if the fish are biting at Piermont Pier and Marsh on the Hudson River. Boats, canoes, and kayaks can be rented if you prefer to laze along the river while you wait for a tug on your line. Find other fishing spots nearby at nymetroparents.com/fishing.

6. Go Greek

9. Root, Root, Root for the Home Team

Cheer on the Rockland Boulders, our county’s resident minor league baseball team, at one of their home games in Pomona’s Provident Bank Park. Kids can hit the field and run the bases after the last inning on Sundays, and many games are followed by fireworks. Find more minor league teams in the area at nymetroparents.com/bball.

10. Music in the Great Outdoors

Enjoy a weekly outdoor concert every Thursday after July 4 at Bowline Point Park in Haverstraw, or find another free summer music series at nymetroparents.com/rock-summer-concerts.

11. Movies Al Fresco

Catch a Flick at the Warwick Drive-In (warwickdrivein.com), a park-like theater set on 11 acres of farmland that screens first-run movies on multiple screens and has homemade food for sale.

12. To Be or Not to Be?

Introduce the kids to The Bard’s timeless work during the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, a summer-long event that allows you to watch Shakespearean tales unfold as you picnic and lounge on the lawn of Garrison’s Boscobel House and Gardens in nearby Putnam County (more info at nymetroparents.com/boscobel).

13. Beach Bums

Visit one of the two beaches in Harriman State Park in Bear Mountain, where you’ll also find camping areas, 200 miles of hiking trails, and 31 lakes and reservoirs. Our full list of beaches in the area is available at nymetroparents.com/beaches.

14. A Homerun

The annual Greek Festival at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, held in early June, features Greek food, music, dancing, crafts, and wine and beer for parents—pretty much everything except the sun, sand, and scenery of the Greek isles.

Head to Provident Bank Park in Pomona to participate in the annual Boulder Dash 5K Run/Walk and Children’s Fun Run, a fundraising event hosted by the Rockland Boulders baseball team for a local cause, date TBA. Registration typically includes a ticket to a Boulders home game later that day. Visit rocklandboulders.com for more info and to register.

7. Hit the Street

15. Travel Back in Time

Nyack’s Famous Street Fair in mid-July (also held in the spring and fall) features nearly 300 exhibitors from five states displaying a large selection of handmade crafts, art and photography, retail items, collectibles, and festival foods, plus a Kid’s Zone with a variety of inflatables—all at Main Street and Broadway in Downtown Nyack.

8. Old-Fashioned Fourth

An Independence Day celebration at Fort Montgomery State Historic Site in nearby Orange County (nymetroparents.com/ft-montgomery) around the first weekend of July features an old-fashioned cannon firing.

Take a tour of the historic Stony Point Lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Hudson River. You can also stop by the site (the site of the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Stony Point, that is) for living history demonstrations, old-fashioned artillery drills, and battlefield tours held throughout the summer. Head to nymetroparents.com/ historical-places for more historic sites in the NYC area.

16. Huzzah!

The New York Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo Park’s Sterling Forest (Orange County) kicks off in early August and runs through early October. Bring the kids for circus-type performances by costumed characters, a jousting match starring knights in shining armor, and lots of carnival-inspired games, all in a 16th-century setting (renfair.com/ny).

17. Let’s Pow-Wow

Check out a real teepee, play with Native American instruments, try some foods popular in Indian cultures, and take in an incredible dance performance by Native American groups from throughout the Americas at the Bear Mountain Powwow in Stony Point in early August (redhawkcouncil.org).

18. Beautiful Butterflies

See and feed live butterflies during Butterfly Weekend at the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum in Cornwall (Orange County) in mid-August. And get up-close with lots of different animals at zoos and nature centers throughout the area (nymetroparents.com/zoos).

Alison Reiser

19. Horse Around

Take a horseback riding lesson at Nickel-O Farms in West Nyack or one of the other horse stables in Rockland (nymetroparents.com/ horseback), most of which also offer summer camp programs and birthday party packages.

20. The Fairest of Them All

Head to the area’s nearest county fair, the Dutchess County Fair in Rhinebeck, in mid- to late August to see farm animals and pig races, watch a variety of performances, shop for crafts, ride and play the amusements, and enjoy a mind-boggling selection of food.

RocklandParent 11

SEASONAL FUN!

Top 20 Things to Do in the

Fall

1. Apples Abound

Pick your own apples throughout September and early October at Orchards of Concklin in Pomona. Find more u-pick apple orchards and farms in our full guide at nymetroparents.com/apples.

2. Explore the JCC

Families are invited to Touch-a-Truck at the JCC Rockland in West Nyack in mid-September. The event is presented in partnership with Jewish Federation and Foundation of Rockland and PJ Library Rockland. Search for more family fun in the area at nymetroparents.com/calendar.

3. Sign of the Season

Once you’ve plucked those crisp fruits, bring them to Tenafly Nature Center in nearby Bergen County, NJ, to make fresh apple cider on weekend dates in September and October.

4. Germany Comes to Rockland

Tom Nycz

On weekends in September and October, Anthony Wayne Recreation Area in Harriman State Park hosts its Oktoberfest fall festival featuring authentic German music, food, beer, and vendors. While you’re there, take a stroll and enjoy the park’s fall foliage.

5. Get lost!

6. Piles of Fun

Take in the fall foliage at the Hudson River Valley Ramble hike at Stony Point Lighthouse and Battlefield weekends through October, where costumed guides will also discuss the history of the site. For more places to view the season’s colorful leaves, go to nymetroparents.com/leaf.

Deborah Grosmark

Courtesy Tenafly Nature Center

In a corn maze, that is. In addition to picking your own seasonal produce, Alstede Farms in Chester, NJ features a corn maze, sunflower maze, hay pyramid, farm animals, wagon rides, pony rides, and more throughout the fall. Visit nymetroparents.com/ corn-mazes for more information.

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7. Hungry Hollow Harvest Hoedown

Hungry Hollow Co-op hosts the annual Harvest Festival in late September, celebrating local agriculture with live music, locally sourced food and refreshments, children’s activities, and more at its location in Chestnut Ridge.

8. Ciao, Bella!

At the annual Italian Festival at Congers Station Park, held either in late September or early October, you can celebrate Italian culture with live entertainment, food and desserts from local restaurants, themed crafts, and specialty vendors.

9. Why Walk Now

Join the Greater Hudson Valley Autism Speaks Walk at Palisades Credit Union Park in late September. Find more causes to walk for at nymetroparents.com/walks.

10. Pumpkins Galore

Don’t miss The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze, an outdoor walkthrough experience featuring thousands of hand-carved pumpkins, at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson (Westchester County). The Blaze opens in late September and runs through November. Get details at nymetroparents.com/blaze.

11. Prepare for Halloween

Daily in October, take a hayride to the fields and pick your own pumpkins at Dr. Davies Farm in Congers or another pumpkin farm in the area (see the full list at nymetroparents.com/pumpkins).

12. Plenty of Fun in Pearl River

In early October, head to the Pearl River Day Festival and enjoy food, music, and entertainment as you browse the town’s shops, restaurants, and other local businesses. For kids, there’s usually face painting, pumpkin painting, balloon twisting, bouncy attractions, and more. Check pearlriverny.org for details.

13. Fall’s Favorite Fruit

Learn how to press apple cider then enjoy a cup, nibble on apple cider doughnuts, and enjoy live entertainment in early October at the Heritage Apple Festival at Boscobel House and Gardens in Garrison (nymetroparents.com/boscobel), in nearby Putnam County.

15. Go Pink

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October), Nyack Hospital hosts Blow Away Breast Cancer, which includes a 5K walk/run and a host of other activities that help raise money and awareness for this important cause. Go to nyackhospital.org for more info and to register.

16. Celebrations of Cultures

Fiesta Latina at Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library’s Village Branch (hkdpl.org) in early October celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with food, songs, music, and crafts. Registration for the event is held in early September.

17. Spooky Season Staple

Dancing ghouls, marching bands, floats, stilt-walkers, and giant puppets are all part of the very popular Nyack Halloween Parade, held in late October (check nyackchamber.org for the exact date). Prizes are awarded for best costumes and best floats, and the parade is typically followed by a monster mash-style party at Nyack Center.

18. Halloween at the Zoo

New Jersey’s Bergen County Zoo opens its doors for trick-or-treaters and special nighttime visits with the animals during its Zoo Boo festival in late October. Don’t miss a ride on the Erie Express haunted train!

19. Those Shoes Were Made for Dancin’

The old-fashioned Family Barn Dance with Live Fiddle Music, held at Congers Lake Memorial Park Auditorium in early November, is hosted by West Nyack’s Blue Rock School (bluerockschool.org). Expect folk dancing, traditional fiddle tunes, and refreshments. Event proceeds benefit one of the school’s scholarship funds.

20. Turkey, Pomp, and Circumstance

It’s worth the trip into the city—at least once—to experience the magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which has become as much a part of Turkey Day celebrations as family feasts, postconsumption naps, and football. For details on this year’s parade, visit macys.com/parade.

14. Fun on the Farm

Take a day trip to nearby Putnam County in early October for Little Folk Farm Days at Green Chimneys in Brewster (nymetroparents.com/ green-chimneys). Kids can ride the ponies, take hayrides, watch live shows, do crafts, and play games at this nonprofit that focuses on animal therapy and nature education.

4 Courtesy Macy’s

Courtesy Lyndhurst

RocklandParent 13

SEASONAL FUN!

Top 20 Things to Do in

Winter

Dmitriy Shironosov

1. Slip â&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Glide

Hit the ice for some classic winter fun at Bear Mountain State Park Ice Rink. The rink is typically open early November through early March (weather pending). Find more indoor and outdoor ice rinks in the area at nymetroparents.com/ice-skating.

2. Skating Sensation

The Disney on Ice tour typically stops at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, for a few days in late November. Check disneyonice.com for the full schedule.

3. Nothing Like the Real Thing

Make this Christmas special with an early December trip to cut your own Christmas tree at Emmerich Tree Farm in Warwick (Dutchess County), where you can also enjoy wagon rides to fields, hot chocolate, and cookies by the bonfire. Search for more tree farms in the area at nymetroparents.com/xmastrees.

4. Magical Menorah

Rockland and Bergen counties host a handful of menorah lightings each year to celebrate the start of Hanukkah. Find one near you at nymetroparents.com/rockland-menorahs.

George Potanovic Jr.

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July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

5. Jolly Old St. Nick

The Historical Society of Rockland County (rocklandhistory.org) opens the doors to the 1832 Jacob Blauvelt House in New City to welcome children of all ages to celebrate St. Nicholas Day. Each child receives a special treat in his or her shoe from St. Nicholas, and everyone can visit with St. Nicholas and his horse, enjoy refreshments, and visit the societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current exhibition.

6. Visions of Sugar Plums

15. Mission: Rocket

7. Mountains of Fun

16. Bounce!

8. It’s All Downhill from Here

17. Talking Camp

Grab your gear and pack up the kids for a day of skiing or snowboarding at one of the area’s family-friendly resorts. For details, visit nymetroparents.com/ski. When the flakes start to fly, pull out your Flexible Flyer and get set for some snow day fun. But before you head out to your local sledding hill, be sure to check out our sledding safety tips at nymetroparents.com/sled-safe.

9. Seeing Green

The Bossy Frog Band is performing at various venues throughout the winter, so bust out your dancing shoes! Before you go, see tips from Bossy Frog’s Rockland-based bandleader Jeffrey Friedberg (who is also a certified music therapist) on how to make the most of your child’s concert experience at nymetroparents.com/live-music.

10. 3…2…1…

Kick off the New Year by celebrating at a New Year’s Eve event for kids or find a venue to spend New Year’s Day at by visiting nymetroparents.com/rockland-nye.

11. Give a Little, Get a Lot

Give back to the community on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in midJanuary. Learn more about volunteer opportunities in the Rockland area at nymetroparents.com/volunteer.

12. If You Build It…

Escape from the cold and head to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester in nearby Yonkers. Among its attractions, LEGOLAND boasts several themed building stations, rides, and MINILAND, a miniature re-creation of the New York metro landscape. Learn more about it at nymetroparents.com/legoland.

Build a Rocket at the Town of Ramapo Challenger Learning Center (nymetroparents.com/lhvcc) on a Thursday night in January and/or February. All skill levels welcome for ages 10 and older or ages 6-9 with a parent. Keep the kids active in the cold months at Bounce! Trampoline Sports, an indoor play space at 612 Corporate Way in Valley Cottage that has tons of fun trampolines and foam pits. Have fun while gaining valuable information at Westchester Parents Day at Crowne Plaza in nearby White Plains, typically held in early February. Meet directors, learn about a wide variety of programs, and enjoy games, dance parties, and even win a prize or two. For more information, visit westchesterparentsday.com.

18. Play All Day

If you need a change of scenery and want to give your kids some socializing time, stop by an open play time at one of the various indoor play spaces in Rockland or Bergen counties. Find a list at nymetroparents.com/rockland-play.

19. A Slam Dunk

Catch the famous Harlem Globetrotters (harlemglobetrotters.com) in mid-February, when these world-class ball-handlers show off their skills on the basketball court at the Wildwood Convention Center in Wildwood, NJ.

20. Sweet Spots

Do you love syrup on your pancakes? See where the sweet stuff comes from during a maple sugaring event at The Nature Place Day Camp in Chestnut Ridge. You’ll learn how to tap a tree and boil down sap into syrup. Find more details, plus other locations that host maple sugaring events in February and early March, at nymetroparents.com/maple-sugaring.

13. All Your Party-Planning Needs

If you’re planning a bar or bat mitzvah, sweet 16, or quinceañera, you’ll want to stop by the Celebrate! Party Showcase, typically held in late January at the Park Ridge Marriott in Park Ridge, NJ. Visit celebrateshowcase.com for more information.

14. An Aerial Adventure

Courtesy Bounce!

When it’s a little too cold outside or your kids are up for a high-wire adventure, head to the Palisades Center Mall in West Nyack for Palisades Climb Adventure. The 85-foot tall ropes course features more than 75 unique challenges—and it has options just for tykes.

Courtesy Feld Entertainment

Rockland Youth Dance Ensemble presents the classic Christmas tale, The Nutcracker, in early to mid-December. If you plan to head into the city for a Christmas show, too, check out our top picks at nymetroparents.com/nyc-holiday-shows.

RocklandParent 15

Top 20 Things to _ Do in

Spring

Courtesy Greenburgh Nature Center

1. Seuss-style Celebrations

SEASONAL FUN!

March 2 is Dr. Seuss’s birthday and National Read Across America Day. Head to your local library for special story times and more activities that celebrate the joys of reading.

2. Erin Go Bragh!

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, Pearl River hosts a super celebration of all things Irish, including the second-largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the state, second only to the New York City parade. It typically features 12 bagpipe bands, Catholic school groups, veterans, fire fighters, police officers, and performances by Irish dance schools. Check for details on the parade in early March at nymetroparents.com/calendar.

3. All-in-One-Expo

For more than 20 years, families have flocked to Youthfest at the SUNY Rockland Community College Fieldhouse in Suffern to meet and learn about local businesses, services, and activities for kids and parents. This popular annual March event also features loads of giveaways, activities, and performances throughout the day. It’s organized by the Rockland County Youth Bureau, so check rocklandgov.com/departments/youth-bureau for details.

4. Kumbaya ’Round the Campfire

Gather around a Spring Campfire at the Tenafly Nature Center in Tenafly, NJ, in late March to learn how this season affects our local plants and animals. You’ll also listen to stories and roast marshmallows for s’mores. If you plan on making your own campfire at home, go to nymetroparents.com/campfire for 10 tips on cooking food over the flames.

5. The Magic of Disney

Experience the magic of Disney Junior Dance Party at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, NJ, where you can catch some of your favorite characters performing in late March. For more information, visit njpac.org.

6. Shop Local

17 July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

14 Courtesy HIT Entertainment

Courtesy Rockland Farm Alliance

In early April, the Nyack Farmers’ Market moves from its indoor location in the Nyack Center to the Main Street parking lot in downtown Nyack. Open Thursdays (8am-2pm) through December, the outdoor market offers local produce, cheese, wine, bakery and specialty items, and more. Get details on live entertainment at the market at nymetroparents.com/calendar.

In April, UniverSoul Circus sometimes comes to Newark, NJ to deliver a unique, jaw-dropping performance with the message that everyone belongs. Visit universoulcircus.com to learn more.

8. Tots on the Trails

Beginning in late April, parents can bring their babies, toddlers, and young children to the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum in Cornwall for its Nature Strollers program, which opens up the museum’s familyfriendly trails to this special group every Monday morning through June.

9. Search for Sweet Treasures

14. Choo Choo!

15. Celebrate Mom

Make Mom feel special with a trip to the Bronx for a Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party at the New York Botanical Garden (nymetroparents.com/nybg). Live music, games, hands-on nature activities, picnicking, and the garden’s amazing array of plants and flowers all make this a worthwhile trip into the city.

16. Time to Play

10. Lend a Hand

17. Heart Land

11. Spring Snips

Celebrate National Train Day in mid-May with a train ride (including one on Thomas the Tank Engine!) or by visiting a nearby train exhibit or museum, such as the Suffern Railroad Museum—see the full list at nymetroparents.com/trains.

Near Easter time, kids ages 10 and younger can join Boulder Bird’s Egg Hunt at Palisades Credit Union Park in Pomona, home of the Rockland Boulders. Special prizes are hidden along with candy-filled eggs, and kids can take pictures with Boulder Bird and the Bunny throughout the day. For more Easter activities in the area, visit nymetroparents.com/easter. In honor of Earth Day, Keep Rockland Beautiful hosts community cleanup events throughout the county to…well, keep Rockland beautiful! Find details on this and other community service activities at nymetroparents.com/volunteer.

7. A New Kind of Big Top

Rye’s Playland, in nearby Westchester County, opens for the season in mid-May with rides and games for all ages. Browse the full list of area theme parks at nymetroparents.com/amusementparks. Cropsey Community Farm in New City hosts open houses and other family events throughout the spring and summer. Visitors to this 12-acre organic, biodynamic community farm—the first of its kind in Rockland County—can typically stroll the fields, meet the farm team, meet animals, and do a planting activity or even work alongside the team in the fields. Check nymetroparents.com/calendar for upcoming events.

The popular Sheep Shearing event at Bergen County Zoo in Paramus, NJ, invites visitors to cheer on the zoo’s flock of sheep as they get their annual haircuts in early May. In addition to shearing demos, there are children’s crafts, special story times, wool spinning demonstrations, and more, and you can enjoy visiting the animals and taking a spin on the zoo’s carousel while you’re there. Find more zoos, botanical gardens, and nature centers in the area at nymetroparents.com/zoos.

18. Dino Days

12. Nature Play

Stop by Grasshopper Grove at Hudson Highlands Nature Museum’s Outdoor Discovery Center (hhnm.org) when it opens for the season, typically in mid-April. Located in Cornwall in nearby Orange County, Grasshopper Grove aims to inspire children to discover nature play spaces in their own backyards.

On late spring and summer weekends, the Fort Montgomery State Historic Site (nymetroparents.com/ft-montgomery) in nearby Orange County (690 Route 9W in Fort Montgomery, just north of Bear Mountain) hosts living history demonstrations complete with costumed interpreters and musket and cannon firings (featuring the fort’s pride and joy, a 32-pound cannon named George).

13. Get Moving for a Good Cause

20. Hit the Street

19. Spring into History

The New City Chamber of Commerce hosts an annual Spring Street Fair in early June on Main Street in downtown New City. The fair features live music, bounce houses, food and craft vendors, kid’s activities, rides, games, a DJ, and more. Check newcitychamber.com for details.

Yasmeen Anderson

Julie Larsen Maher

Join the March of Dimes’ March for Babies in various New Jersey cities in early May to expand programs and educate medical professionals so that moms and babies can get the best possible care, even when pregnancy doesn’t go as planned. For details on this and other charity walks in the area, go to nymetroparents.com/walks.

Travel back in time—to the Jurassic period, to be exact—at Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia, NJ. This 30-acre zoo-like adventure park, where the “animals” are actually animatronic dinosaurs, typically opens Memorial Day weekend. Get more information at nymetroparents.com/nj-dinos.

RocklandParent 17

NYMetroParents

Your Hospital Go-Bag It’s a daunting bag to pack—what will you need while you’re in labor? How about right after the baby is born? If you’ve never been through it before, your list may stall at onesies and completely neglect your partner’s inevitable need for Cheetos. Thankfully American Pregnancy, a national health organization committed to promoting reproductive and pregnancy wellness, has the lowdown on what should actually go into that hospital suitcase.

For Mom

m Your baby’s going-home outfit: a onesie,

m Paperwork and IDs: Don’t forget your health

insurance card and any pre-registration forms from the hospital. Bring them in a big folder that you can use to store other paperwork you acquire.

hat, booties or socks, and mittens

m Receiving or swaddle blankets m Wipes for newborns or sensitive skin

m Breast-feeding support: nursing bras, breast pads, and a good sports bra—good for a water birth or suppressing lactation if you’re not breast-feeding

m Toiletries: Don’t forget a hair band or clip if you have long hair.

m Change of clothes and toiletries m Snacks, and maybe even a cooler filled

m Sleepwear comforts: nightgown and robe,

slippers (during early labor you may have to walk around), and socks (many women get literal cold feet during delivery)

m Your going-home outfit: Choose one that fit when you were 6 months pregnant.

m Pillow from home: Put a non-white pillow case on it to distinguish it from hospital pillows.

with drinks and sandwiches so you can avoid the cafeteria.

m Watch with a second hand to time contractions.

m Portable speaker to play soothing music, which may help you and your partner relax both during and after labor.

m Chargers for phones, tablets, laptops,

m Mouth refreshers: mints or breath strips (for

nausea) lollipops or hard candies (for dry mouth)

For Baby

and speakers.

m Massage oils to help alleviate back labor m Take-out menus for nearby restaurants

m Infant car seat and infant head support: You will not be allowed to leave the hospital without one; make sure you bring the instructions.

Sponsored by

S T E A M Scholarships are available to qualifying applicants, email sreynold@stac.edu to learn more!

SUMMER CAMPS 2019 Monday, July 8th through Friday, August 2nd

St. Thomas Aquinas College together with the generous support of Orange & Rockland Utilities is offering five summer camps in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math designed for Middle School Students, Grades 5-9. Only a few spots left, register soon at www.stac.edu/steam • • • • •

Math of Games: Strategy and Influence - Figure out your opponent’s moves! Mathematics & Art - Tessellations, fractals, and origami. Adventures in App Development - Create apps for iPhone and iPad. Emerging Technologies - Robots, drones, and virtual reality. Forensic Science - Solve a “Who done it?” case.

125 Route 340 • Sparkill, NY 10976 • 845.398.4100 • www.stac.edu/steam RocklandParent 21

NYMetroParents

Tips to Host a Birthday Party Whether you’re throwing the bash of the year or taking a few friends to an amusement park, local moms reveal some helpful tips for planning a party for kids.

m Select the Right Date: Before setting a date,

ask about your kid’s close friends’ availability. If you know your child’s birthday falls near a classmate’s big day, ask the other child’s parents about their plans for celebrating. Send invites three weeks out.

m Guest List: For elementary schoolers, invite

either the whole class, less than half the class, or only your child’s closest friends. Ask about food allergies and get cellphone numbers if parents are dropping their kids off at the party.

m Activities: Set a schedule of events and alternate high-energy and low-energy activities. Also make sure there is an area designated for kids who may need a break from the stimulation.

m Get Help: Ask a friend or relative for help or hire a sitter for an extra pair of hands. Designate a photographer—someone who will make sure they get the important shots, so you don’t have to worry. Take some photos before the party begins.

m Choose a Theme: Let the birthday kid choose a theme—it makes all the other decisions (décor, invites, cake, etc.) much easier.

m Timing: Two hours is more than enough time for

a party. Schedule younger kid’s parties in the morning before nap time. For teens, set ending time earlier than needed to account for dawdling.

m Invites: Use an online invite such as Paperless Post

so you can track RSVPs. The invite should say what is needed (for example, towels for a pool party) and what will be offered (i.e. cake and pizza at 12pm.)

m Food and Drink: Make sure you have enough

for parents and younger siblings who stick around. Cut pizza slices in half. Make snacks and drinks simple and self-serve. Set out a large pitcher and cups for water.

m Balloons: Use a bike pump to blow up balloons; buy helium balloons the day of party.

m Party Favors: Order in bulk online or buy from dollar stores (no need to spend much money on these). Don’t personalize them—you never know who will or won’t show up.

m Gifts: Save gift-opening for after guests leave. If you must open them at the party, remind your child about the importance of being thankful—even for the unwanted gifts. Another option is to forgo gifts and use a service such as Share Your Wish where guests donate money to be split between the birthday kid and the charity of choice. Be sure to send thank-you notes (email is fine) so guests know their gift was received.

Explore the possibilities of Dance

At Coupé Theatre Studio

Ballet Demi Pointe Pointe Jazz Tap Contemporary Hip Hip Musical Theatre Theatre Dance Acrodance Creative Movement Kinder Classes Tots And More

Fall Registration

for new students begins Saturday July 13th at 10am

Coupé Theatre Studio in Nanuet, New York has been training dancers for over 40 years. We offer classes for students of all ages from �irst steps to pre-professionals.

430 Market Street Nanuet, NY 845-623-2808 coupedance.com

GLSW

German Language School Westwood

Summer Arts Day Camp 2 week sessions available throughout the summer!

GERMAN LANGUAGE CLASSES Small Classes All Ages and Levels Preparation for all College Admissions Tests

Accredited Non-Profit Since 1972

Now enrolling for SUMMER CAMP!

www.germanschoolnj.org

201-825-9770

Fine Arts h Ceramics h Swimming h Sculpture Nature Trails h Dance h Theater Artsh Yoga ROCKLAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS 27 s greenbush rd, w nyack, ny 10994 (845) 358-0877 www.rocklandartcenter.org RocklandParent 23

Birthday Party ENTERTAINMENT Fudgie the Clown and Mystique the Magician

Serving Rockland and Bergen counties 201-825-7481 fudgietheclown.com Clowning and magic for any occasion! Invite Fudgie or Mystique to your next party, picnic, or event. Fudgie is an award-winning clown and professional family entertainer specializing in magic, face painting, and balloon animals. Ask about mid-week special rates. Fully insured.

Inflatable Party Adventures

Serving Rockland, Northern New Jersey, and Westchester 845-267-2022 inflatablepartyadventures.com Premier, state-of-the-art inflatables and entertainment equipment at a price that can’t be beat. Every rental includes our risk-free rain policy. We specialize in delivering the type of fun guaranteed to make your next event one to be remembered and talked about for years to come.

Party Pack Crew

917-882-6660 partypackcrew.com Our fabulous birthday and themed parties include more than just your favorite characters, we also decorate, entertain your party guests, and make your moments of celebration unforgettable! Party options include both boy and girl character themes, arts and crafts, and jewelry making. Check our website for details.

SweetGuyIceCream.com

Serving Rockland and Bergen since 2011 845-499-5480 sweetguyicecream.com sweetguyicecream@gmail.com Invite SweetGuy to your child’s birthday party and get some really sweet extras! We provide a photo booth and great props for souvenir photos. The birthday child will get a free T-shirt and a guest server spot onboard the SweetGuy Ice Cream truck! Visit sweetguyicecream.com for availability and booking!

BIRTHDAY PARTY GIFTS ‘Tilly...A Deer’s Tale’

914-764-5564 tillyadeerstale.com Tilly...A Deer’s Tale is about a real deer that lives in upstate New York and faces challenges after an accident. This powerful story is meant to inspire children living with physical challenges or limitations. The book makes a great birthday gift!

Toyriffic2 Toy Store

1581 Route 202, Pomona 845-362-6053 toyriffic2.com; toyriffic2@aol.com Looking for the perfect birthday gift? Come

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

visit our unique toy store in Pomona. We offer a great selection of Melissa & Doug crafts and many other quality, affordable, educational toys, crafts, games, and puzzles for kids of all ages, both boys and girls.

shoe rental, food, paper goods, setup, and cleanup. You bring the cake, and we do the rest. Upgraded packages include custom invitations, French fries, and goodie bags.

BIRTHDAY PARTY PLACES

512 Route 303, Orangeburg 845-359-3592 orangetownclassicdiner.com The perfect place to celebrate! Offering Crazy Shakes, creative pancakes, delicious appetizers, burgers, salads, and comfort food favorites with gluten-free options and vegetarian choices. Full bar with draft beer and all natural “no-antibiotics-ever” chicken and USDA Prime burgers. Be our guest for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, seven days-a-week.

Abrakadoodle Art Studio for Kids

53 Prospect Place, Hillsdale 201-383-0027 abrakadoodle.com; kroberts@abrakadoodle.com Paint, slime, clay, and glitter are the cool things we use at our studio! Abrakadoodle has been serving the community for more than 13 years offering Artie Parties and “no school workshops” for ages 3 and older. We love mess and watching your children have fun while creating.

The Academy For Martial Arts

8 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-359-4500 rocklandkarate.com 7-11 Suffern Place, Suffern 845-368-3209 martialartssuffern.com A karate party is a great way to enter the world of martial arts. It’s also a great way for experienced students to share the martial arts with friends and family. Spacious, fully equipped facility, an energetic, cheerful, and professional staff, and martial arts-themed fun and games.

Bach to Rock - Nanuet

150 E. Route 59, Nanuet 845-215-9536 nanuet.b2rmusic.com; nanuet@bachtorock.com Bach to Rock offers birthday parties for kids and adults. The Rock Birthday Party consists of a two-hour jam and recording session. Karaoke Birthday Party is for kids eager to become a superstar singer for a day. The Rock City Birthday Party allows children to explore rock ‘n’ roll instruments.

Jill’s Ceramics

180 Germonds Road, West Nyack 845-623-4975 jillceramics.com jillsceramics@aol.com We offer a fully equipped ceramics and plaster studio where children and adults let their creativity run wild. Parties for kids include paper goods, a painter’s hat for the birthday child signed by their friends, and an item for each child to paint.

New City Bowl and Batting Cages

90 N. Main St., New City 845-634-4977 newcitybowlandbattingcages.com We are well known for our great birthday party packages and offer Glow Bowling for Sunday parties. All parties include bowling,

Orangetown Classic Diner

Palisades Climb Adventure

4590 Palisades Center Drive, Level 4 of the Palisades Center, West Nyack 845-727-3500 palisadesclimb.com Palisades Climb Adventure offers the world’s tallest indoor ropes challenge course with 75 unique challenge elements to explore, climb, and conquer. Our Sky Tykes kids’ ropes course is designed for ages 2-7. Both courses are available for birthday parties. Book your party today!

Romp N’ Roll

28-29 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-580-9065 rompnroll.com

orangeburg@rompnroll.com Our awesome parties for kids ages 1-6 include exclusive use of gym and party room, moon bounce, rock wall, monkey bars, and bubble machine. Energetic party hosts customize and lead games, songs, and activities that you get to select! We set it up and we clean it up.

Surge Studio

285 N. Route 303 (in Colonial Plaza), Congers 845-589-0990 surgestudioarts.com; info@surgestudioarts.com Let us host a fun and customizable birthday party for your child and their friends at Surge Dance Studio. Parties consist of games, activities, pictures, choreography to the birthday guest’s favorite song, and, of course, pizza and cake! Parties are for ages 3-13 and run for 1½ hours.

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics and Fitness

401 Market St., Nanuet Mall South, Nanuet 845-623-2553 tumble-beegymnastics.com Our bright, colorful facility is the perfect place for your child’s private birthday party (ages 1-12). We’ll provide two wonderful, exciting, and energetic party instructors. Also, free invitations, paper products, and utensils. The

birthday child receives a free gift and balloons. Reserve in advance. They book quickly!

Venture Equestrian Center

15 Fernald Road, Stony Point 845-709-4073 venturerockland.org/programs/ equestrian-center horseprogram@campventure.org Venture Equestrian Center is the perfect spot for your child’s riding birthday party! We offer a year-round, indoor/outdoor arena with a private party room overlooking the ring. Included is a free, framed riding photo of each party guest, and a visit to our on-site small animal farm. Open to the public.

Vicki’s Dance Studio and Kreative Kids

61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202 vickistudio.com We offer great birthday parties for boys and girls of all ages with a variety of themed options such as HipHop Dance Party and Games Mix, Jumping Gymnastics, Disney Dance Mix, and Dress-up Princess Party! Party packages include decorations, paper products, entertainment, and a party coordinator. Call for details.

Vision Sports Club

Youth Fit Zone 37 W. Jefferson Ave., Pearl River 845-517-1400 gym 845-517-1427 parties visionsportsclub.com Our fun-filled parties are 1½ hours with games and activities of your choice in our Sports Zone, plus a private party room for pizza and cake! Upgrade packages available including additional party time, party favors, Bubble Ball, and Crafts & Kicks. We do the work and you show up for the fun!

West Rock Indoor Sports and Entertainment Complex

21 Pralle Lane, Nanuet 845-623-3636 westrockindoor.com With 26,000-square-feet of turf, two regulation-size basketball courts, six Har-Tru tennis courts, indoor bouncers, and private party room, we are the ultimate place for your birthday party. Choose one of our specialty or sports parties or customize your own. Packages include dedicated party host(s). Check website for party options.

Dental Wellness of Suffern Now Offers:

ANESTHESIA-FREE & VIRTUALLY PAIN-FREE PROCEDURES

We are proud to announce that we have added the Solea dental laser to our practice: No drill No numb feeling No needles No jarring noises No soreness And multiple procedures done in one appointment

Dental Wellness of Suffern | Sherri Alpert, D.D.S. 2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern | (845) 918-1801 dentalwellnessofsuffern.com

! N! PEN CTIO O LL DU STI RO TS NAL P O SP RIGI MP CA ALE, O C LS FUL

LINDGREN IS THE NATURAL CHOICE. At Lindgren Nursery School, we let children be children. With 3½ acres of woods, gardens and play areas designed for exploration, spacious, sunny classrooms, and a truly exceptional teaching staff, we have created a learning environment made for natural discovery and development.

We nurture young children so their bodies, minds, and feelings develop naturally. FIND OUT MORE! Visit lindgrenschool.com or call 201.768.3550 today.

Acting Workshops For Kids of All Ages! • Learn acting fundamentals in a creative environment • Gain confidence – by contributing to the process • PRIVATE COACHING • COLLEGE PREP / PRESCREENS

FALL REGISTRATION STARTS AUGUST 25th

• Creating original theatre & performances for all ages!

8 Second Street, New City | 845-708-2288 clarkstowntheatrecompany.com RocklandParent 25

The Best Alternative To An All Day Camp! Programs & Workshops for Girls & Boys 16 months - teens

vicki’s dance studio

2 or more hour sessions available (extended hour options)

Our Summer Programs Include: • Multi-Arts Program (Ages 16 months - 5 years old) includes Arts & Crafts, Music with instruments, theme weeks, tumbling, creative movement & more

• Princess Dress Up Dance Tea Party • American Girl Dance Around The World • Broadway Kidz New Competitive Strength Dance Team • Pop Diva & Conditioning Options • Youth Theatre Workshops Ages 5-18 • Pre-Teen - Teen Dance Workshop • Gymnastics Galore

61 Maple Ave, New City • www.vickistudio.com • 634-2202

Celebrating our 20th Year!

Mrs. Feeney and her staff are celebrating another fabulous year educating and nurturing the children in our community

Registration Ongoing for September 2019

Half and Full Day Sessions for 3-5 yr old • Extended Care Hours Readiness Skills Including: Math, Science, Reading, History, Religion, Fine & Gross Motor Skills Technology Touch Screen Tablets, Smart Boards Fun Arts & Crafts, Yoga, Class Trips, Hands on Activities

St. Catharine Early Childhood Center 517 Western Highway • Blauvelt

359-4330

NY State Licensed All Staff NY Certified CPR & First Aid

www.stcatharineprek.org st.cprek@yahoo.com

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

UPK Participant

Why Choose Us? Dr. Tong

Without Sedation

If Sedation Needed

Gentle Patient Caring

Safe Anxiety Free Pain Free

Interest Free Payment Options Available Insurance Accepted Treatment Explained

Dr. Mendia

140 Oak Tree Rd. Tappan, NY

845-367-7782

SmileMoreKidz.com

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on the State Fair Meadowlands (No. 2 on our list)

JULY

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CALENDAR 28 Editor’s Hot Tickets

31 Crafty Kids,

29 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, July 4th Celebrations

The Great Outdoors,

30 Smarty Pants,

Movers & Shakers

32 Mini Musicians

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

Show Time!

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the nine 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!

Great American Weekend 2019 FREE

WHEN: July 6-7, Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: First Presbyterian Church Park, 33 Park Place, Goshen AGES: All WHAT: The Great American Weekend offers activities throughout the 9-acre village surrounding the church. WHY WE LOVE IT: You’ll find craft booths, food vendors, and plenty of local entertainers. WANT TO GO? 845-294-7741. goshennychamber.com.

State Fair Meadowlands

WHEN: Through July 7: Monday-Thursday, 6pm-12am; Friday, 6pm-1am; Saturday, 2pm-1am; Sunday, 2pm-12am WHERE: Meadowlands, Stadium Road, 102 NJ State Highway 120, East Rutherford, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy quality rides, food, exciting games, and prizes. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will love live entertainment like Jurassic Kingdom, Jungle Island High Dive, and Rosaire’s Royal Racing Pigs! WANT TO GO? See website for price schedule. 201-355-5911. njfair.com.

Community Day of Nature & Play FREE

WHEN: Saturday, July 13, 12-4pm WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, 25 Boulevard, Cornwall-on-Hudson AGES: All WHAT: Spend the day enjoying nature play, hiking, live animals, games, a special performance, and more! WHY WE LOVE IT: Enjoy the great outdoors along with breathtaking views of Cornwall and the Hudson Valley. WANT TO GO? 845-534-5506. hhnaturemuseum.org.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Carnival of Curi-Oddities

WHEN: July 12-13, Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 3pm, 8pm WHERE: Paramount Theatre, Ocean Avenue between 5th and Sunset avenues, Asbury Park, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: From feats of incredible skill to biological marvels, this collection dazzles your imagination and showcases the unbelievable. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families can stroll the nearby boardwalk before or after the show to shop and dine. WANT TO GO? $29.50 and up. 732-897-6500. ripleyslive.com.

5 28

Nyack’s Famous Street Fair FREE

WHEN: Sunday, July 14, 10am-5pm WHERE: Downtown Nyack, Main Street, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Shop amongst the 340 exhibitors from five states lining

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

6 downtown. Expect arts and crafts, collectibles, home décor, festival foods, live music, and more. WHY WE LOVE IT: There will be a Kid’s Zone with a variety of inflatables set up by A Total Jump. WANT TO GO? 845-353-2221. acadaofnyack.com/nyack-street-fair.

28th Annual Hudson Valley Hot-Air Balloon Festival

WHEN: July 12-14, Friday, 4-9:30pm; Saturday, 5-9am, 12-9:30pm; Sunday, 5-9am, 12-8pm WHERE: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6636 U.S. 9, Rhinebeck AGES: All WHAT: See balloonists and vendors from all over the country as well as live music, games, tether rides, and more throughout the weekend. WHY WE LOVE IT: There will also be helicopter rides and hayrides. WANT TO GO? $42 weekend pass at gate; $25 weekend pass in advance; $14 single day at the gate; $10 single day in advance; $8 single day for senior and military personnel at gate Friday; free admission for children younger than 3. 845-454-1701. balloonfesthv.com.

Champions of Magic: Summer Spectacular

WHEN: Wednesday, July 17, 2pm, 7pm WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Five of the world’s top magicians present daring, grand illusions, stunning close-up magic, and incredible mind reading. WHY WE LOVE IT: You can purchase a VIP package to meet the magicians! WANT TO GO? $19-$49. 973-539-8008. mayoarts.org.

83rd Annual Garden State Cat Expo & Show

WHEN: July 20-21, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-4pm WHERE: New Jersey Expo and Convention Center at Raritan Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Watch more than 300 pedigreed and household pet cats compete. WHY WE LOVE IT: The fun includes Cat Judging, Fashionista Cats, Meet the Breeds, Shelter Showcase, Ask the Vet, and face painting for kids. WANT TO GO? $15; $12 seniors; $8 children younger than 12; $35 family of 5. gardenstatecatexpo.com.

Weekly Drop-In at Rockland Baby Café FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 31, 2020: Tuesdays, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Rockland Baby Café, 14 S. Main St., Spring Valley AGES: Newborn to 2, adult WHAT: Meet and talk to new moms about various parenting topics. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s the first drop-in baby café in the New York metro area. WANT TO GO? 914-922-2240. rocklandgov.com.

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

JULY 4TH CELEBRATIONS

Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the seven no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome.

Fireworks and Rockland Boulders vs. Trois-Rivieres Aigles

Spaced Out! FREE

WHEN: Monday, July 1, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Palisades Free Library, 19 Closter Road, Palisades AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Celebrate the solar system and create a rocket to launch! WANT TO GO? 845-359-0136. palisadeslibrary.org.

Over the Moon Animal Adventure with Animal Embassy FREE WHEN: Tuesday, July 9, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: The Manse Barn in Tappan, 32 Old Tappan Road, Tappan AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Meet some amazing animals at this interactive event. WANT TO GO? 845-359-0136. palisadeslibrary.org.

Yoga for Kids! FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, July 10, 3:45-4:15pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Join Valerie Vendrame in a lively introductory yoga class for kids! WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

7th Annual Classic Car Night FREE

WHEN: Thursday, July 11, 5pm to dusk WHERE: The Nyack Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: See hundreds of rare, antique, and vintage vehicles. WANT TO GO? 845-353-2221. nyackchamber.org.

Friday Fun FREE

WHEN: July 5-26, Fridays, 4-5pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Every Friday is something different, including Builder’s Club, games, 3-D fun with 3-D pens, PS4, Code Club, Science Squad, and more. WANT TO GO? 845-429-3445. hkdpl.org.

Ice Cream During National Ice Cream Month

WHEN: July 1-31, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9am-6pm; Tuesday, Thursday, 9am-7pm; Saturday, 8am-2pm WHERE: Smile More Dentistry, 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan AGES: All WHAT: Let Smile More Dentistry desensitize your teeth and have an ice cream cone on them! Children 5 and younger get free ice cream. WANT TO GO? Free with $20-$50 treatment. 845-359-1763. dentisttappan.com.

2019 Summer Concerts FREE

WHEN: July 11-Aug. 29, Thursdays, 7pm WHERE: Davis-Johnson Park, 137 Engle St., Tenafly, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Bring your blanket or chair and enjoy some wonderful entertainment. WANT TO GO? 201-568-6100. tenaflynj.org.

WHEN: Thursday, July 4, 6:30pm WHERE: Palisades Credit Union Park, 1 Palisades Credit Union Park Drive, Pomona AGES: All WHAT: See a fireworks celebration after the game. WANT TO GO? $13-$16. 845-364-0009. rocklandboulders.com.

Little Falls 4th of July Street Fair FREE

WHEN: Thursday, July 4, 10am-5pm WHERE: Little Falls PBA #346, 89 Main St., Little Falls, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy various vendors, kiddie rides, and entertainment all day. WANT TO GO? jcpromotions.info.

July 4th Parade FREE

WHEN: Thursday, July 4, 10am WHERE: Peekskill Fire Department, Washington Street, Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Independence Day with the town of Peekskill. WANT TO GO? peekskillfiredepartment.org.

The Ridgewood Fourth of July Celebration

WHEN: Thursday, July 4, 6pm, concert; 9pm, fireworks WHERE: Veteran’s Field, 131 N. Maple Ave., Ridgewood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: See this show-stopping pyrotechnic display. Food trucks are onsite and local musical groups perform at the Kaschau Bandshell. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 children ages 6-12. ridgewoodjuly4.net.

Fourth of July Celebration FREE

WHEN: Thursday, July 4, 1pm WHERE: Fort Lee Historic Park, Hudson Terrace, Fort Lee, NJ AGES: All WHAT: See a cannon firing demonstration and a screening of the film 1776. WANT TO GO? 201-461-1776. njpalisades.org/fortlee.html.

Independence Day Commemoration FREE

WHEN: Thursday, July 4, 1pm WHERE: Stony Point Battlefied State Historic Site, 44 Battlefield Road, Stony Point AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the 243rd birthday of the U.S. with an illustrated lecture, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and a cannon firing. WANT TO GO? 845-786-2521. parks.ny.gov. \Independence Day Cannon Firing Program FREE WHEN: Thursday, July 4, 12pm WHERE: Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, 690 Route 9W, Fort Montgomery AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate American independence with the firing of the fort’s artillery! WANT TO GO? 845-446-2134. parks.ny.gov.

Village of Nyack Fireworks Display FREE

WHEN: Friday, July 5, 9pm WHERE: Nyack Memorial Park, Depew Avenue, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: See a fireworks extravaganza over the Hudson River! WANT TO GO? 646-775-1492. visitnyack.org. ›› RocklandParent 29

SHOW TIME! Ken Ludwig’s ‘The Three Musketeers’

WHEN: Through July 7: see website for show times WHERE: The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This adaptation stays true to the original with more female characters. WANT TO GO? $29 and up. 973-408-5600. shakespearenj.org.

Dance Bring It! LIVE: The Dance Battle Tour

SMARTY PANTS Storming of Stony Point FREE

WHEN: Saturday, July 13, 8pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Get ready for a night of heart-pounding dance routines, audience interaction, and the behind-the-scenes lowdown on the smash hit series. WANT TO GO? $33.75-$64. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

Car Show

WHEN: July 13-14, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-4pm WHERE: Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, 44 Battlefield Road, Stony Point AGES: All WHAT: Travel back in time 240 years ago for battle reenactment, 18thcentury crafts, colonial games, and more! WANT TO GO? 845-786-2521. parks.ny.gov.

WHEN: Thursday, July 18, 5:30-7:30pm WHERE: Germonds Park, Germonds Road, West Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Show your car for a chance to win a trophy, or see what’s on display. WANT TO GO? Admission is free; $10 to show car. 845-639-6200. town.clarkstown.ny.us.

Children & Families: Energy Encounter

WHEN: Thursday, July 18, 5pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: See emerging artists and bands perform. WANT TO GO? 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

WHEN: Sunday, July 21, 1pm WHERE: Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor AGES: All WHAT: Discover the basics of energy through movement, play, and a close look at George Rickey’s kinetic sculptures. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 seniors; $8 ages 5-18; free for members and children younger than 4. 845-534-3115. stormkingartcenter.org.

Builders Club FREE

WHEN: July 1-29, Mondays, 5-6pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Have fun with Legos, marble runs, magic nuudles, littleBits, K’nex, and more! WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Learn to Play the Ukulele FREE

WHEN: July 6-Aug. 24, Saturdays, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-17 WHAT: The ukulele is a fun and educational way to learn about music and stringed instruments. WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Weekly Drop-In at Rockland Baby Café FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 31, 2020: Thursdays, 11am-1pm WHERE: Martin Luther King Multi-Purpose Center, 110 Bethune Blvd., Spring Valley AGES: Newborn to 2, adult WHAT: A drop-in to meet and talk to new moms, learn how to make breast-feeding easier, make sure your baby is latching and gaining well, get tips on pumping and going back to work, and learn about other parenting topics. WANT TO GO? 914-922-2240. rocklandgov.com. 30

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City: Newark Salutes Its Own FREE

Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City: The Wailers’ Julian Junior Marvin FREE

WHEN: Thursday, July 25, 5pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: See The Wailers featuring Julian Junior Marvin, the famed lead guitarist of Bob Marley & The Wailers. WANT TO GO? 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

Magic Show FREE

WHEN: Saturday, July 27, 11:30am-12:15pm WHERE: Palisades Free Library, 19 Closter Road, Palisades AGES: All WHAT: Join the amazing Joe Fischer for a morning of magic! WANT TO GO? 845-359-0136. palisadeslibrary.org.

‘William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play’ (abridged)

WHEN: July 3-Aug. 4, see website for schedule WHERE: The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Introduce your little ones to the works of Shakespeare. WANT TO GO? $38 and up; free for children 18 and younger. 973-408-5600. shakespearenj.org.

‘The Rainmaker’

WHEN: July 31-Aug. 18, see website for show times WHERE: The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, NJ AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Travel back to a dust bowl ravaged-America for a romantic comedy. WANT TO GO? $29 and up. 973-408-5600. shakespearenj.org.

CRAFTY KIDS

Children & Families: Sculptural Planters

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Mysteries of the Night Garden FREE

WHEN: Sunday, July 7, 1pm WHERE: Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor AGES: All WHAT: Create unique planters that draw inspiration from Storm King. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 seniors; $8 ages 5-18; free for members and children younger than 4. 845-534-3115. stormkingartcenter.org.

WHEN: Monday, July 1, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Explore what animals are awake at night. WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Teen Paint Night: Paper Lanterns FREE

WHEN: Sunday, July 7, 5:30-8:30pm WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: All WHAT: “Captain Jim” Keyes will teach all about piracy on the Hudson River! WANT TO GO? $60; $30 child. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

WHEN: Tuesday, July 9, 7pm WHERE: New City Library, 220 N. Main St., New City AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Paper lanterns light up the night. Pizza and soda will be available. WANT TO GO? 845-634-4997 x139. newcitylibrary.org.

Sail the Hudson: Pirate Chanties

Homes and Hikes FREE

Painting in the Park

WHEN: Wednesday, July 10, 5:45-7:45pm WHERE: Germonds Park, 185 Germonds Road, West Nyack AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Be inspired by local artists who will guide you step by step through a featured painting. WANT TO GO? $38. 845-639-6200. town.clarkstown.ny.us.

WHEN: Sunday, July 28, 2-3pm WHERE: Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, 443 Van Nostrand Ave., Englewood, NJ AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join a naturalist on a short hike to spot some possible animal homes on the trails. WANT TO GO? 201-567-1265. flatrockbrook.org.

Cosmic Bath Bombs FREE

Mysteries of the Garden at Night with Master Gardeners FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, July 10, 7-8pm WHERE: New City Library, 220 N. Main St., New City AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Create a scented bath bomb and take it home to dry. WANT TO GO? 845-634-4997 x137. newcitylibrary.org.

Children & Families: Maple Prints

WHEN: Sunday, July 14, 1pm WHERE: Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Participate in the artist’s process of reclaiming materials by inking and printing from maple logs to create a tapestry. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 seniors; $8 ages 5-18; free for members and children younger than 4. 845-534-3115. stormkingartcenter.org.

Children & Families: Box Towers

WHEN: Sunday, July 28, 1pm WHERE: Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor AGES: All WHAT: Construct sculptures and towers out of cardboard boxes and other building materials. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 seniors; $8 ages 5-18; free for members and children younger than 4. 845-534-3115. stormkingartcenter.org.

Crochet Classes FREE

WHEN: July 8-Aug. 5, select Mondays, 7pm WHERE: New City Library, 220 N. Main St., New City AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Learn to crochet or brush up your skills by making something for the Women’s Heart Association and receive community service hours. WANT TO GO? 845-634-4997 x137. newcitylibrary.org.

art x design: Art in the Park

WHEN: Through Aug. 30: Fridays, ages 6-9, 3:30-5pm; ages 10-13, 5:30-7pm WHERE: Vincent Clark Park, East Main Street and Beach Road, Stony Point AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Students will be able to apply techniques they’ve learned to complete a different project each week. WANT TO GO? $30 per class. artxdesign.studio.

WHEN: Wednesday, July 31, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Palisades Free Library, 19 Closter Road, Palisades AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Investigate the mysteries of being in the garden after dark. WANT TO GO? 845-359-0136. bit.ly/2EFwOJW.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Little Yoga! FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, July 10, 3-3:30pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy an introductory yoga class. WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Library Field Day FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, July 17, 6-8pm WHERE: Orangeburg Library, 20 Greenbush Road, Orangeburg AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Enjoy an evening of field day games. WANT TO GO? 845-359-0136. bit.ly/2Qu6h6S.

2nd Annual Jawonio Hometown Heroes Bowlathon

WHEN: Tuesday, July 23, 7pm WHERE: New City Bowl and Batting Cages, 90 N Main St., New City AGES: All WHAT: Proceeds will help fund a summer cabin for children with special needs. WANT TO GO? $20. 845-708-2022. jawonio.org/hometownheroes.

Zumbini with Flo FREE

WHEN: July 11-Aug. 8, Thursday, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The program combines music, dance, and educational tools for 45 minutes of bonding, learning, and fun. WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org. ›› RocklandParent 31

Tykes Tuesday: Big Jeff FREE

MINI

MUSICIANS Tykes Tuesday: The Dizzy Chicken Show FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, July 2, 11am-12pm WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This show is upbeat, fun, and full of important messages. WANT TO GO? 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

Fireworks & Concert FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, July 2, 6-10pm WHERE: Nanuet High School, 103 Church St., Nanuet AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy inflatable bouncers, concert by FDR Drive, and fireworks. WANT TO GO? 845-639-2000. town.clarkstown.ny.us.

Tykes Tuesday: The Bossy Frog Band FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, July 9, 11am-12pm WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The Bossy Frog Band thrills young audiences with their interactive, banjo-driven, costume-character-dancing musical performance. WANT TO GO? 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

WHEN: Tuesday, July 16, 11am-12pm WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Hear Big Jeff and his music for kids. WANT TO GO? 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

Tykes Tuesday: Two of a Kind FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, July 23, 11am-12pm WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Two of a Kind delights audiences with their music, good humor, and audience participation. WANT TO GO? 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

Tykes Tuesday: Aaron Short FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, July 30, 11am-12pm WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Aaron Short is a musician who has been working with children at some of NYC’s best schools including Apple Seeds and is also a qualified Music Together teacher. WANT TO GO? 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

Music on the Hudson Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Through July 30: Tuesdays, 7pm WHERE: Memorial Park, Piermont Avenue, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Pull up a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy some great tunes. WANT TO GO? 845-480-6088. visitnyack.org.

Local Businesses Have Gifts For Your Children

Bounce! Trampoline Sports - Valley Cottage - 2 hours FREE Open Bounce Time

New City Bowl & Batting Cages special offer - One FREE Game of Bowling

Palisades Climb Adventure Birthday - One FREE complimentary day pass

Enroll Your Children nymetroparents.com/birthdayclub 32

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Jill’s Ceramics Birthday Party One FREE item to paint

NYMetroParents

Camp Packing Lists Whether they are leaving home for the day or for the month, sending your little ones off to camp can be nerve-wracking. You want to give them every chance to stay safe, have fun, make friends and learn new skills. This starts with knowing what to pack in their camp bag.

Day Camp

Sleepaway Camp

Even though kids aren’t spending the night, they still need to be prepared for the elements. The following essentials should be packed in a durable backpack that has extra side pockets:

Your child’s sleepaway camp will provide a packing list, which will include the basics: shorts, T-shirts, towels, and flashlights. You should abide closely by that list. But what about those items that only experienced camp parents can recommend? We asked some sleepaway pros to reveal what off-list items they’ve learned are essential gear:

m Hat with visor for sun protection and to shield their eyes during outdoor activities

m Extra clothes—they will get dirty and wet. m Plastic bags for wet swimsuit and clothes m Insect repellent wipes, which are easier for children to reapply

m A lunch that won’t melt (hint: no chocolate) packed in a thermal tote bag

m Small backpack for m Waterproof watch m Photographs of family mD ecorations for the bunk

m A family picture to remind them of home

m Clip on fan

m Wet wipes

m Duct tape

m Waterproof sunscreen with 30 SPF or higher

m Head lamp

m Waterproof windbreaker or light jacket for

m Shower caddy and

rain or hikes

m Water shoes m A reusable water bottle

m Deck of cards

day trips

shower shoes

m Pre-addressed and stamped envelopes

m Extra batteries

m Reusable water bottle m Washcloths m Baby wipes m An extra pair of eyeglasses

m A costume m A bunk organizer that hooks onto their bunk to hold flashlight, books, etc.

m Extra blankets m A letter from home m Floor mat to wipe their feet before getting into bed

Summer Camps DAY CAMPS Camp Ramaquois

30 Mountain Road, Pomona 845-354-1600 ramaquois.com Camp Ramaquois is “a day camp as complete as sleepaway camp,” situated on 44 acres in Rockland County. From adventurous activities to creative arts and athletic activities, boys and girls ages 3-15 experience a traditional day camp program filled with a variety of stimulating activities.

Green Meadow Waldorf School

307 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-356-2514 gmws.org Run by trained Waldorf teachers, our summer programs take place on more than 11 acres of farm, fields, forests, gardens, and streams. Parents appreciate our unplugged environment, ecological sustainability, and commitment to organic food.

The Lindgren Nursery School and Camp

211 Irving Ave., Closter, NJ 201-768-3550 lindgrenschool.com/summer-camp Set in our spacious woodland oasis, Lindgren is a haven unlike any camp in the local area. Pools, pavilions, and farm animals create a true outdoor camp experience. Local elementary teachers and artisans bring talents to each department. Campers meet for a Red Cross swim lesson with their troop daily.

CAMPS - SPECIALTY CAMPS The Academy For Martial Arts

8 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-359-4500 rocklandkarate.com 7-11 Suffern Place, Suffern 845-368-3209 martialartssuffern.com Your child can receive self-defense training, get fit, and improve their focus and self-confidence—all while having a great time this summer at TAMA. In addition, we will offer plenty of other activities to keep them active and entertained including

games, big-screen movies, and arts and crafts. Enroll in advance.

Bright Beginnings Preschool & Childcare

6 Charles St., New City 914-420-5785 2 Mountainview Court, Pomona brightbeginningsofrockland.com We offer a fun, affordable summer program for children 6 months-school age. Private cul-de-sac location with an acre of property for outdoor play. Program includes meals, water table and sprinkler play, dance lessons, arts and crafts, physical education, and theme weeks. NYS-licensed/NAFCC accredited facility. Staff are CPR- and first aid-certified.

Camp Venture Summer Camp

58 Oak Colony Road, Stony Point 845-624-3868 venturerockland.org/programs/ summer-camp Camp Venture is proud to offer a summer day camp for all children, but specializing in providing kids with special needs a unique camping experience. Our one- to seven-week integrated camp is a fun, nurturing place for Rockland children with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Activities include swimming, art, and noncompetitive sports. Morning and teen programs available.

Clarkstown Theatre Company

8 Second St., Lower Level, New City 845-708-2288 clarkstowntheatrecompany.com We are a year-round theater company offering acting classes, music theater workshops, and intimate original showpieces. In addition to after-school classes, we are offering a new threeweek summer program that involves your child in an original production from start to finish. “We keep our casts small, so the experience is huge!”

Coupé Theatre Studio

430 Market St., Nanuet 845-623-2808 coupedance.com Coupé offers a variety of exciting summer programs for students ages 4 through teens and a

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Ballet Intensive (by audition). Programs feature age-appropriate classes in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip-hop, musical theater, acro and acrodance, voice training, and acting. Trips to Broadway shows, and ballet at Lincoln Center. Flexible schedules.

Danceworks

69 Lake Road, Congers 845-268-4669 Danceworks will be offering a craft and dance camp this summer. The program is for kids in pre-K through third grade and will be held from July 8-Aug. 2. Please call our studio at 845268-4669 for day and time availability. Danceworks specializes in children, encouraging a friendly and noncompetitive atmosphere.

German Language SchoolWestwood

Saturday only class and Summer Camp 47 Berkeley Ave., Westwood, NJ 201-825-9770 germanschoolnj.org info@germanschoolnj.org The German Language School-Westwood, a non-profit organization in Bergen County offers German Language Immersion Summer All Day Camp in Alpine, NJ for campers age 5 and older. Activities include swimming, archery, rock climbing, nature walks, daily German lessons, and other outdoor activities. Before- and after-care available. Tuition includes lunch. Email or call for details.

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio 61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202 vickistudio.com We are the best alternative to an all-day camp, at reasonable rates! We cater to ages 16 months (diapers welcomed) to 5 years. This multi-arts program includes music, creative movement, theme weeks, and tumbling. Other special summer programs for ages 2½ to adult include a variety of dance and combination classes.

RoCA Summer Camp/Rockland Center for the Arts

Amy Alinkofsky, camp director 27 S. Greenbush Road, West Nyack 845-358-0877 x18

rocklandartcenter.org amy@rocklandartcenter.org RoCA features one of the region’s most comprehensive art programs. At Camp RoCA, with guidance from teaching artists, campers explore various art forms in studio-based activities where they learn cooperation, personal development, and self-esteem. Available five or three days-a-week, two, four, six, or eight weeks. July 1-Aug. 23.

St. Thomas Aquinas College, STEAM Summer Camp

125 Route 340, Sparkill 845-398-4100 stac.edu/steam Summer STEAM Camps at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill are designed for middle school level students, fifth-ninth grades. Starting July 8- Aug. 2, the College will host a series of STEAM camps in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, sponsored by Orange and Rockland.

Vision Sports Club

Youth Fit Zone 37 W. Jefferson Ave., Pearl River 845-517-1400 gym 845-517-1427 parties visionsportsclub.com Join the summer fun at Vision Sports Club Summer Blast Program! 9am-12:30pm summer sessions July 1-Aug. 30 for kids ages 5-13. Enjoy crafts, sports, obstacle course, bubble ball, games, music, and movies. Pay by the day—no commitment!

West Rock Indoor Sports and Entertainment Complex

21 Pralle Lane, Nanuet 845-623-3636 westrockindoor.com Our All Sports and Basketball Camps feature fun-filled instruction, sports, and games. Campers will improve their conditioning and sports skills in our state-of-the art, air-conditioned facility featuring six Har-Tru tennis courts, two regulation-size basketball courts, and indoor turf fields. Offering flexible schedules, extended hours, multi-week discounts, and lunch options.

NYMetroParents

Make the Most of a Parent-Teacher Conference A parent-teacher conference is an ideal opportunity to get the lowdown on your child’s academic life—but how do you maximize your limited time and get all the information you need? With the help of Dana Stahl, M.Ed., author of The ABCs of Learning Issues, Diane Marzitliano and Danielle Monick, sixth and eighth grade teachers at M.S. 137, and Allyson Moyal, an Old Westbury mother of three, we compiled a list of the most important questions to ask.

Instead of focusing on your child’s grades, ask more probing questions:

mW hat are my child’s strongest and weakest subjects?

m Is my child sought out during structured or unstructured time?

m Does my child have one or two friends with whom he feels comfortable?

m Is my child submitting homework on time?

m Is my child socially comfortable?

m What is the quality of my child’s homework? mC an you provide examples of my child’s strengths and weaknesses?

One of the most important things to discuss is the child’s attention level:

m Is my child paying attention in class?

If your child’s teacher brings up any academic concerns, you may want to consider delving in deeper with questions such as:

m Is my child engaged in lectures and assigned

mW hat additional assistance or support do you

m Does my child appear to zone out? Is my child

recommend?

mD oes a disparity exist between my child’s knowledge base in class and her performance on examinations? Social interactions at school can interfere with learning, so be sure to ask:

m Is my child getting along well with his peers?

tasks?

actively disruptive? If your child’s teacher confirms your child is struggling to pay attention, you may want to ask:

m Is your level of concern for my child’s attention issues sufficient to warrant a ‘Child Study Team’ meeting?

m Do you think an evaluation is warranted to understand why attention issues are present?

Remember, a parent-teacher conference is not only an opportunity for you to learn about your child, but an opportunity for his teacher to learn from you. Don’t forget to offer your own information—especially if there is a recent event (divorce, move, new sibling, etc.) that might be affecting your child.

NYMetroParents

The Essential College Visit and Interview Checklist College visits and interviews are valuable for the college to get to know your son or daughter as more than just a file. To make the most of a college visit and college interview, Tony Di Giacomo, Ph.D., educator and founder of Novella Prep, a college planning service, shares tip to ensure the college visit and interview are a success.

Pre-Visit

Before setting foot on campus:

m Review the Office of Undergraduate Admissions page for application requirements

m Explore the undergraduate majors page and relevant departmental pages

The College Visit

The following questions will help you gain insight into the college, and whether it is a good fit: About the application:

mW hat kind of characteristics are you looking for in an applicant?*

mH ow much does GPA matter compared to standardized tests?

mH ow important are SAT or ACT scores?

m How much weight is put on the college essay?

m What percent of students are admitted early decision vs. regular decision? How do these applicant populations vary?

mW hat does your college value in terms of extracurriculars?

About the college: m How does class size vary by college within the university or by major?

m What types of activities are available for students to get to know their peers and participate in the college community?

mW hat kinds of social activities are available to students, in the first two years?*

mH ow competitive are students? How collaborative?*

m How does this college make a student feel at home or not overwhelmed?* About connecting college to career:

m I s there a formal process for career counseling providing support for students junior or senior year?

mW hat kinds of internships are available?*

m How active is the alumni network for supporting job placement or field interviews to learn more about potential career paths?*

The On-Campus Interview

Applicants who are able to request an on-campus interview, who are selected upon applying to

be interviewed, or who only have the choice for alumni interviews should take advantage of this opportunity to further personalize and showcase who you are. An on-campus interview by admissions staff member: In addition to asking the above questions marked with an asterisk (*), ask: About the application:

mW hat does your college value in a resume?

mH ow much does GPA or class difficulty matter in comparison to test scores? About me:

mD o you have any suggestions for me to improve my chances of admission?

The Alumni Interview

The alumni interview can include all of the on-campus interview questions, as well as:

mH ow did this college prepare you for your career path?

mW hat advice do you have for me as an applicant? In general?

Education DAYCARE & CHILDCARE St. Catharine Early Childhood Center

517 Western Highway, Blauvelt 845-359-4330 stcatharineprek.org Our program provides an opportunity for young children to join together in a loving, nurturing, educational, fun environment. Phonemic awareness skills, social, cognitive, and fine and gross motor skills are introduced through creative curriculum. A wonderful place for preschoolers to learn, grow, and have fun!

Tutor Time Childcare Learning Center

227 N. Main St., New City 845-708-8270 tutortimenewcity.com Tutor Time Childcare Learning Center in New City provides early education and care to children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Its proprietary LifeSmart curriculum was designed to grow the whole child cognitively, socially, physically, and emotionally. We offer full- and part-time programs, and a state-of-art facility with security cameras.

PRESCHOOLS Bright Beginnings Preschool & Childcare

6 Charles St., New City 914-420-5785 2 Mountainview Court, Pomona brightbeginningsofrockland.com We offer two great locations to meet your preschool and childcare needs for ages 2 to school-age. Owned and operated by a NYS-certified elementary teacher, we follow a full NYS pre-K curriculum, offer before- and after-school programs, flexible scheduling, NYS-licensed/NAFCC accredited facility. Staff are CPR- and first aid-certified.

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio

61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202 vickistudio.com Kreative Kids is a toddler and nursery program for ages 16 months to 4 years (diapers welcomed)! Classes are divided by age. We offer arts and crafts, music with instruments, singing, creative movement, tumbling, story time, snack time, and early learning skills. We offer small class sizes and flexible, extended hours.

The Lindgren Nursery School and Camp

211 Irving Ave., Closter, NJ 201-768-3550 lindgrenschool.com/summer-camp It is our mission to engage young children in direct and meaningful experiences with the natural world and other people. Our campus includes seven classrooms, 3½ acres of gardens, play areas, and farm animals. Daily program is a balance of indoor and outdoor free play, teacher-directed experiences, and small group activities.

St. Catharine Early Childhood Center

Tutor Time Childcare Learning Center

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Green Meadow Waldorf School

307 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-356-2514 gmws.org Green Meadow Waldorf School in Chestnut Ridge offers Parent and Child classes for babies and toddlers age 3 and younger, serves children from nursery to 12th grade, and runs popular summer programs. Founded in 1950, one of the oldest, largest Waldorf schools in the U.S., with approximately 375 students.

SPECIAL NEEDS Otto Specht School

260 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-352-5020 x130 ottospechtschool.org info@ottospecht.org At Otto Specht School, we work to discover each child’s path to lifelong learning, offering exceptional educational programs that reach beyond the four walls of a traditional classroom. Designed for students with learning challenges and developmental delays, we offer kindergarten-12th, Transitional Life Skills, and 21 plus programming.

Clemente Orthodontics Where Excellence Is A Family Tradition Dr. Marissa Clemente

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tutortimenewcity.com Tutor Time Childcare Learning Center in New City provides early education and care to children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Its proprietary LifeSmart curriculum was designed to grow the whole child cognitively, socially, physically, and emotionally. We offer full- and part-time programs, and a state-of-art facility with security cameras.

Dr. Michael Clemente

We are now excited to offer Acceledent to our patients!!

Dr. Nicole Clemente

38 Years In Rockland

• Private Treatment Rooms • All Digital X-Rays • Flexible Payment Plans • Accepted

• Impression Free Invisalign • Super Elite Premier Invisalign Provider • Complimentary Consultations • Orthodontics for Adults & Children

603 South Route 304 New City, NY 845-638-6646 • clementeorthodontics.com RocklandParent 37

NYMetroParents

5 Time Management Tips for Kids Do you have an elementary school student who is exploring all of her various interests in afterschool activities? Or is your high-schooler focused on band or soccer and working a part-time job? Whatever your child’s after-school schedule looks like, learning time management skills will set him up for a lifetime of success. (Don’t even get us started on college, when you have no control of her daily calendar!) Below, you’ll find tips for helping him think through tasks and commitments to ensure everything gets done.

Avoid overscheduling.

It may be tempting to sign your child up for a different after-school class every day, but Melanie WilsonTaylor, M.D., F.A.A.P., of South Slope Pediatrics in Brooklyn, recommends choosing the one or two she is really excited about. Limiting the number of after-school activities will help prevent stress and anxiety that can come with overscheduling. Plus, while homework may seem easy in September, as the year progresses, the amount and complexity of homework increases as your child learns new material. You can always sign her up for more extracurriculars later in the year.

Use an assignment book.

When it comes to keeping track of homework assignments, there’s nothing better than having one spot he can jot down tasks for each subject. Emily Levy, Ed.D., founder and director of EBL Coaching in Manhattan, recommends students create a five-column grid for each day. The first (and widest) column should be for Assignments, then have Estimated Time, Actual Time, Order, and Done. Once your child gets home, she should think through her assignments, write an estimate for how long each task will take, and decide an order to tackle the assignments. After each assignment is completed, he should mark how long it actually took to help him better gauge future assignments. An “x” should be put in the “done” column only when the homework is placed in her backpack to take to school.

Determine an after-school schedule.

Pick up a dry-erase monthly calendar your child can use to note after-school activities, assignment due dates, sports games or other school activities, and work schedule (if you have a teen). Once the calendar is filled in with the extracurricular commitments, designate a block of time each day when homework will be done and stick to it, suggests Lisa Rappaport, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist in NYC. Will it be after dinner but before evening screen time? Will it be between when school gets out and dance class?

Designate a homework spot.

Whether it’s at the kitchen counter, the dining room table, or a desk in the bedroom, having one spot where your child does his homework—that’s stocked with all the supplies he’ll need—will set him up for homework success.

Help assess larger assignments.

Help your child break down projects and long-term tasks into smaller steps that she can write in the assignment book, Dr. Levy advises. Think about writing a research paper; he’ll need to create an outline, find sources, write the paper, compile a list of sources, and do final edits. With practice, she can use this strategy independently to successfully conquer bigger assignments.

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Classes ART

Jill’s Ceramics

180 Germonds Road, West Nyack 845-623-4975 jillceramics.com; jillsceramics@aol.com “Where children and adults create their own functional works of art.” Established for more than 37 years, we offer a huge variety of plaster pieces that can be painted and taken home same-day, or glazed ceramics with a large assortment of finishes. Open ceramic times and free instruction offered weekly.

RoCA Summer Camp/Rockland Center for the Arts

Amy Alinkofsky, camp director 27 S. Greenbush Road, West Nyack 845-358-0877 x18 rocklandartcenter.org amy@rocklandartcenter.org ROCA has been a hub of creative arts activities for families for more than 70 years. We offer an array of studio art classes for children, ages 3 through teens, during convenient hours. Classes include ceramics, cartooning, painting, drawing, photography, and preschool art. Check online for 2019 summer and fall schedule.

DANCE Coupé Theatre Studio

430 Market St., Nanuet 845-623-2808 coupedance.com For more than 45 years Coup Theatre Studio has offered the finest training in all areas of the performing arts. Classes include ballet, pre-pointe and pointe, variations, partnering, jazz, contemporary jazz, acro, tap, modern dance, hiphop, theater dance, musical theater, acting, and vocal technique. For students ages 3 through adult.

Danceworks

69 Lake Road, Congers 845-268-4669 Offering classes in creative dance, pre-ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, and hip-hop for ages 3 through teen as well as adult ballet workout classes (free babysitting). Specializing in children—encouraging a friendly, noncompetitive atmosphere. Several children have gone on to study at the School of American Ballet in Manhattan. Free trial classes.

Vicki’s Dance Studio and Kreative Kids 61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202

vickistudio.com For more than 30 years, Vicki’s Studio has been inspiring and motivating students. They offer beginner to advanced classes for ages 2-adult, including jazz, tap, hip-hop, ballet, pointe, lyrical, modern, creative movement, boys hip-hop, gymnastics, combination classes, and musical theater classes. For experienced dancers they offer a competitive dance team (try-outs required).

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

German Language School-Westwood

Saturday only class and Summer Camp 47 Berkeley Ave., Westwood, NJ 201-825-9770 germanschoolnj.org info@germanschoolnj.org The German Language School Westwood is a non-profit organization in Bergen County. We welcome students of all nationalities and backgrounds. Most classes meet on Saturday mornings, for children of all levels, with additional adult classes offered on evenings. All teachers are experienced language instructors.

STEM St. Thomas Aquinas College, STEAM Summer Camp

125 Route 340, Sparkill 845-398-4100 stac.edu/steam Summer STEAM Camps at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill are designed for middle school level students, fifth-ninth grades. Starting July 8-Aug. 2, the College will host a series of STEAM camps in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, sponsored by Orange and Rockland.

THEATER Clarkstown Theatre Company

8 Second St., Lower Level, New City 845-708-2288 clarkstowntheatrecompany.com Clarkstown Theatre Company began in our community to create and develop artists as actors and performers. We are a year-round studio that offers acting classes, musical theater workshops, and intimate, original showpieces. Join us where the craft of theater is experienced in a warm and positive environment with professional instructors.

Sports

GYMNASTICS & CHEERLEADING

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics and Fitness

401 Market St., Nanuet Mall South, Nanuet 845-623-2553 tumble-beegymnastics.com Tumble-Bee Gymnastics and Fitness offers an education in gymnastics, fitness, and fun. Serving Rockland for more than 30 years, we offer programs for children ages 10 months to 12 years. Our staff is warm, caring, and well-trained to work with your child building confidence and self-esteem to achieve success in the future.

MARTIAL ARTS The Academy For Martial Arts

8 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-359-4500 rocklandkarate.com 7-11 Suffern Place, Suffern 845-368-3209 martialartssuffern.com As a parent, you want to protect your child from dangerous situations. Martial arts lessons are a fantastic solution and TAMA has been teaching them for more than 20 years. Every kid should learn self-defense. It’s like learning to swim—it’s lots of fun, can save your life, and builds self-control and self-confidence.

PROGRAMS - MULTI-SPORTS New City Bowl and Batting Cages

90 N. Main St., New City 845-634-4977 newcitybowlandbattingcages.com Children love bowling! We offer something for everyone-all ages and abilities are welcome. All league members get a shirt, awards, trophies, free practice, and membership in our VIB club for discounts. Join a league and participate in every game. We offer inexpensive clinics and camps for those who want to improve.

West Rock Indoor Sports and Entertainment Complex

21 Pralle Lane, Nanuet 845-623-3636 westrockindoor.com Rockland’s premier facility for sports training, development, birthday parties, and special events, offers programs for children and adults in basketball, soccer, lacrosse, baseball, tennis, and fitness. Our skilled staff ensures your child has the perfect mix of fun, physical activity, and training.

Jill’s Ceramics

Where children & adults create their own functional works of art

Call for Extended Group Hours / Pricing & Current Weekend Hours

• Kids Birthday Parties • Adult’s Night Out • Specialty Items For Every Holiday • Paint & Go or Glaze & Fire

Mon, Tues & Wed 930am-300pm Tues & Thurs 700pm-930pm Friday Kids Classes 300-500pm

180 Germonds Rd. West Nyack, NY • 845-623-4975 • www.jillsceramics.com RocklandParent 39

NYMetroParents

What to Do After Diagnosis When you notice signs of delay in your child’s development, your next steps may be unclear. INCLUDEnyc (includenyc.org; 212-677-4660; Spanish: 212-677-4668), the leading provider of training and information for young people (birth to 26) with any disability and their families, shares what you can do to secure educational, therapeutic, and community-based services for your child. Early Intervention (birth to 3)

m This is a free program offered through the New York State Department of Health for eligible children with developmental delays. m Children can receive physical, occupational, and speech therapies; counseling; assistive technology; respite, vision, and psychological services; and more. m Find an office in your community at health.ny.gov.

Preschool Special Education (ages 3-5)

m Your child may receive special education services through the Committee on Preschool Special Education. When your referral is received, you’ll be assigned a CPSE administrator and receive a packet that includes a list of evaluation sites. m Select an agency to conduct the evaluation, which may include psychological, psychosocial, speech, physical, or occupational therapy evaluations. m Then, you’ll meet with CPSE to determine if your child is eligible for preschool special education services. If so, then an Individualized Education Program will be created.

Preparing for Kindergarten (children turning 5 by the end of the year)

mD uring the kindergarten application process, you’re encouraged to attend 40

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

an orientation and submit applications in the fall of the previous year. An admission offer to register for a school, whether or not it will be final placement, will arrive mid-March. Special education services will be provided by the child’s school or other arrangements will be made. mA t the same time, you’ll develop a kindergarten IEP (the Turning 5 process). m F or children already receiving preschool special education services, your child will be referred to the Committee on Special Education. The only evaluation included in Turning 5 is a classroom observation and review of existing documentation. Additional evaluations can be requested. m I f your child doesn’t receive services in preschool, but you believe he or she may need them in kindergarten, contact the CSE in your district and make a referral for special education services. A referral can also be made to the school’s IEP team once a student enrolls or at any point after that.

School Age (ages 5-21)

m I f a child enters school without an IEP, but you suspect they may have a disability, you can request an evaluation from the school’s IEP team. Within 10 school days, you’ll receive a consent form. The evaluation, IEP meeting, and offer of services,

if eligible, should not take more than 60 school days from the date the consent form is signed. m If attending a private or charter school, make requests to the CSE in that school’s district. m E valuations must be done in a language your child understands. Results must be translated into a language you understand.

Community-Based Services (all ages)

m The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities provides free services and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Eligibility is determined based on disability and individual need regardless of family income and other insurance. m Call your Developmental Disabilities Regional Office to speak to a Front Door team member and register for a Front Door information session, where you’ll learn more about services and the OPWDD eligibility process. If your child is found eligible, you will choose a Care Coordination Organization to coordinate support and services. m OPWDD eligibility requirements are the same for all ages though “provisional eligibility” may apply to children younger than 8. “Standard eligibility” needs to be established after age 8. Start scheduling evaluations when your child turns 7.

Special Needs CLASSES & FUN Camp Venture Summer Camp

Otto Specht School

260 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-352-5020 x130 ottospechtschool.org info@ottospecht.org At Otto Specht School, we work to discover each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s path to lifelong learning, offering exceptional educational programs that reach beyond the four walls of a traditional classroom. Designed for students with learning challenges and developmental delays, we offer kindergarten-12th, Transitional Life Skills, and 21 plus programming.

MEDICAL PROVIDERS/DENTISTS Bear Brook Dental Care

305 W. Grand Ave., Suite 100, Montvale, NJ 201-746-9474 bearbrookdentalcare.com info@bearbrookdentalcare.com We are a multi-specialty dental practice with our adult dentist,

Dr. Kiwon Lee, and our pediatric dental specialist, Dr. Tommy Lee. We provide comprehensive dental care, from toddlerhood through adulthood, in the most technologically advanced and comfortable environment. Dr. Kiwon Lee also expertly treats snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with dental appliances.

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dentistry of the Palisades Dr. Varsha Reddy, Dr. Alexandra Delfiner, Dr. Michael Ayoub, Dr. Keerthi Vittal 99 Dutch Hill Road, Suite 1100, Orangeburg 845-359-8080 cdofpalisades.com As a board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Varsha Reddy, and her team of specialists are experts in pediatric oral health care. Dr. Reddy has worked closely with children with special needs and has helped them have positive experiences at her office through her individualized desensitization program.

Dental Wellness of Suffern

Sherri Alpert, D.D.S. 2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern 845-918-1801 dentalwellnessofsuffern.com dentalwellness@optonline.net Dr. Alpert is excited to offer drill-free, needle-free dentistry with the Solea CO2 Laser. A parent herself, Dr. Alpert enjoys working with children who are apprehensive about the dentist, as well as those with special needs, creating a fun environment with magic tricks, a wall mural, and a lot of patience.

ORTHODONTIST

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Marita Smith, D.D.S. Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Nyack Pediatric Dentistry

Sachdev Family Orthodontics

124 E. Ramapo Road, Suite 2, Garnerville 845-786-7736 sfojustsmile.com sfojustsmile@gmail.com We provide individualized braces and Invisalign treatment to kids-adults (including patients with special needs). Dr. Ameeta Sachdev has been in the dental field for two decades with dual dental degrees from India and the U.S. Most insurances accepted, evening and Saturday

hours, and 24-hour emergency service available.

Smile More Kidz Dr. Darren Tong

140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan 845-367-7782 smilemorekidz.com Dr. Tong is a certified pediatric dentist and has been voted Favorite Kids Doc by NJ Family Magazine for five consecutive years. He specializes in treating children with special needs. Dr. Tong is patient, friendly, and has a kind personality that connects with children and helps them relax and be comfortable.

THERAPY & COUNSELORS Lipson Family Coaching - Melissa Lipson

SPOTS Special Programs in Occupational Therapy Services

30 Ramland Road, Orangeburg 845-848-2228 spotsot.com SPOTS is a pediatric occupational therapy practice that provides services for toddlers-teens. We are committed to fostering a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self-esteem and confidence while utilizing their strengths to improve areas of difficulty, such as sensory processing skills, fine and gross motor skills, handwriting skills, social skills, attention, and self-regulation skills.

Lipson Family CoachingStrengthening your Family

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NYMetroParents

How to Treat Common Stains Who hasn’t come across a surprise stain while doing laundry? Mary Gagliardi (aka Dr. Laundry for Clorox) says the first step is to always read the care label. If the garment contains spandex, use a colorsafe bleach, such as Clorox 2, and avoid anything with sodium hydrochloride in it. Leather, suede, and silk should be treated professionally. For everything else, Dr. Laundry has the following advice: If your clothing has these stains, replace the garment:

m If garment is white, wash in hot

m Dried paint m Permanent marker

m If garment has color, apply

An oil-based stain, such as pesto, marinara, or grease splatter from cooking: m T reat the oil first, then worry about the color stain.

m Apply liquid dish soap to stain on dry fabric, rub it in, wait 5 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

m Repeat if necessary. m Then, wash according to care label with detergent and appropriate bleach product to treat the color part of the stain.

Mechanical grease (bike chains or car oil) or set-in oil stains: m L estoil Heavy-Duty MultiPurpose Cleaner is a fabricsafe solvent that’s great for stripping oil.

m T o test if it’s safe for your fabric, apply a small amount to a hidden patch on the garment, wait a few minutes, and rinse.

mA pply Lestoil to grease stain as pretreatment, let sit for a few minutes, then wash according to the care label.

Diaper explosions: m R inse away as much of the stain as you can with cool water.

water with detergent and ½ cup of bleach. color-safe bleach as pretreatment and wash in hottest temperature possible.

Vomit or spit up: m P retreat stain with detergent and rinse; then pretreat with color-safe bleach and wash.

m For cold-water washing, soak the item in a gallon of water with detergent for 30 minutes before washing.

Blood: m L iquid Clorox 2 works really well because the hydrogen peroxide in it breaks up the blood proteins.

m For a fresh stain, apply pretreatment, let sit for 10 minutes, and rinse with cold water.

m For dried on blood, do the pretreatment twice, then wash according to care label.

Grass and mud: m R inse off as much mud as possible, even if it’s already dry.

m Presoak the garment for 30 minutes in cool water mixed with powder detergent that includes an enzyme.

m Pretreat with appropriate bleach product, then wash according to care label.

Non-oil-based food stains: m P retreat with appropriate bleach product, then wash according to care label.

Red wine: m P our club soda on stain, which will help rinse out the wine.

mA pply appropriate pretreatment and wash according to care label.

Sweat or pit stains: m I f the shirt is white and 100-percent cotton, machine wash in hot water with regular bleach.

m If not 100-percent cotton, pretreat with liquid detergent containing an enzyme or Clorox bleach pen gel.

m I f neither works, experiment with a different deodorant.

Lipstick: m L ay out a washcloth on a table, place garment on top with stain facing the washcloth. Take another washcloth with liquid detergent on it and blot the stain, pushing detergent through fabric. This pushes the stain from the garment onto the washcloth.

m Repeat above step, moving washcloth on table around so you’re working on a clean spot.

m Once lipstick no longer transfers, apply appropriate pretreatment, then wash on hottest temperature possible.

Services FINANCE & INSURANCE

Fidelis Care New York

888-FIDELIS (343-3547) fideliscare.org Fidelis Care is a mission-driven health plan offering quality, affordable coverage for children and adults of all ages and at all stages of life. With more than 1.7 million members statewide, Fidelis Care believes that all New Yorkers should have access to affordable, quality health insurance.

SHOPPING Palisades Center

1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack 845-348-1000 palisadescenter.com Palisades Center is one of the largest shopping centers in the U.S.! Located just 15 miles north of Manhattan in West Nyack, Palisades Center offers premier shopping, dining, and entertain-

PROVIDING KID APPROVED DENTAL CARE!

ment for all ages. This four-level shopping center offers the best of the best, all under one roof.

‘Tilly...A Deer’s Tale’

Toyriffic2 Toy Store

1581 Route 202, Pomona 845-362-6053 toyriffic2.com toyriffic2@aol.com Looking for the perfect birthday gift? Come visit our unique toy store in Pomona. We offer a great selection of Melissa & Doug crafts and many other quality, affordable, educational toys, crafts, games, and puzzles for kids of all ages, both boys and girls.

Marita Smith, DDS Board Certiﬁed Pediatric Dentist

Specializing in Dental Care for Children of All Ages State of the Art Dental Care & Facility Evening & Saturday Hours Available 24 Hour Emergency Service Available Most Dental Insurances Accepted Nitrous Oxide available for children when necessary Se Habla Espanol

Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona, NY 10970 drsmith@smithslittlesmiles.com

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RocklandParent 43

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8 Things to Do When You Move Congrats! You just found a home to raise your children in! While moving can be overwhelming (especially with small children in the mix), there are some often-overlooked tasks you’ll want to tackle ASAP. On the other hand, there are also things you may think need to be done immediately that can be moved to your long-term to-do list. Sarah Fishburne, director of trend and design at Home Depot, weighs in on what to do before moving, on move-in day, and after moving to make the process a little easier.

Before Moving In Change the locks on external doors.

Nearly 37 percent of new movers don’t do this, according to a survey conducted by Home Depot. It’s easy to do, whether you tackle the project yourself or hire a locksmith. After all, you never know who might have keys to the old lock.

Replace the keypad if you have an automatic garage door opener.

The directions for resetting the pin probably got tossed long ago, so it may be easier to install a new one, Fishburne advises.

Fix any issues noted in the home inspection. In the home-buying process, you’ll want to have an inspector look through the house to ensure everything is up to code. If there is anything noted as an issue, it’s important to take care of that ASAP—especially since it could affect your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Get a homeowner’s insurance policy (or update your renter’s insurance).

Once you have these policies squared away, make hard copies and store them in a fireproof safe as well as in a secondary location should something happen to your home. Other documentation to keep in the fire-proof safe are birth and marriage certificates, bank statements, passports and driver’s licenses, health insurance, mortgage papers, social security cards, car titles and registrations, and legal documents.

Move-In Day Call utility companies to update your accounts. Cancel services at your old address. At the same

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

time, schedule appointments (if necessary) to set up services at your new home if you’re using the same company. Otherwise, set up accounts with new providers. While you’re at it, update your address with credit cards, bank statements, subscriptions, and friends and family.

Tackle unpacking rooms one by one.

It’s not realistic to get the whole house unpacked as soon as the last box is unloaded from the moving truck. Concentrate on getting the most-used rooms unpacked first (the kitchen, bedrooms, bathroom, and living room), then move on to play rooms, offices, etc., Fishburne advises.

After Moving In Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If they’re old, you’ll want to install new ones, which have improved technology—and some have batteries that can last for 10 years, Fishburne says. At the very least, put fresh batteries in existing detectors.

Make small changes to personalize your home. Without committing to a total renovation, there are easy modifications you can make that will have a big impact. Change out the handles on doors and cabinets, replace towel bars and curtain rods in the bathrooms, and swap out old light fixtures, Fishburne recommends. Paint will become your best friend (or perhaps enemy) in making an old space feel new. Paint rooms, kitchen cabinets, your front door, and even the exterior of the house. And, of course, give your home some curb appeal with flowers, new numbers, and even a new mailbox.

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• Orthodontics • General Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Pediatric Dentistry • Laser Dentistry • Welcoming Children With Special Needs

845-359-8080 cdofpalisades.com

www.tillyadeerstale.com

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Angela Boudounis-Hatzis, DDS

• Specialist in dentistry for children and adolescents

• New, state of the art facility

• Digital X-rays used

• Insurance friendly

• Patients seen on time

• Warm and friendly staff. Stop in and meet us!

265 N. Highland Ave - Suite 101 (Rte 9W-in Children of America Bldg) Nyack, NY Tel: 845-512-8434 www.nyackpediatricdentistry.com

Perhaps it’s the teacher who kneels down to greet your child, the Tutor Towne® village that brings amazement to your child’s face, or just the good feeling you get here. With programs that focus on nurturing your child’s self-esteem while promoting creativity, character, fitness and learning, its a curriculum you won’t see anywhere else. Visit us today. When you do...you’ll feel it too. • Infant and toddler care • Pre-school and Pre-kindergarten • Open 6:30am to 6:30pm • Full and part-time programs • Live updates on the Brightwheel App • Zono Sanatizing Cabinet • Proprietary curriculum

www.Tutortimenewcity.com 227 N. Main New City, NY 10956 | 845-708-8270 | ttnewcity@verizon.net

BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE THIS SUMMER WITH THE

SMILE! • Invisalign & Braces for Kids & Adults • A modern office with a “family” feel. • Most Insurances Accepted SACHDEV FAMILY ORTHODONTICS 124 E. Ramapo Road, Suite #2 Garnerville, NY 10923 sfojustsmile@gmail.com • 845-786-7736 RocklandParent 45

Meet the

Health Care Professional Bobby Crohn, D.D.S. Monroe Dental Office 400 State Route 17M, suite 2, Monroe 845-782-0189 monroedentaloffice.com monroedental@optonline.net

Dr. Crohn graduated from SUNY Stony Brook with a degree in biology. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University at Buffalo in 1992, and he completed his general practice residency at Danbury Hospital in 1993. Dr. Crohn has done extensive additional training in implant dentistry including training with Dr. Nick Elian at Vistara Institute, DentalXP Symposiums, and training at Zimmerman Institute. Dr. Crohn is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He offers state-of-the art treatment including on-site cone beam 3-D imaging.

Marita Smith, D.D.S. Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-414-9626 smithslittlesmiles.com drsmith@smithslittlesmiles.com

Dr. Marita Smith is a board-certified pediatric dentist dedicated to providing excellent dental care for children from infancy-adolescence in a warm and friendly environment. As a mother of two, Dr. Smith knows how important it is for a child to be comfortable and stress-free during their dental visits. Dr. Smith places great focus on prevention and her goal is to keep your child’s smile healthy! Most insurances accepted. Evening and Saturday hours and 24-hour emergency service available. Se habla Español.

Kastin Orthodontics 6 Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-354-7233 kastinorthodontics.com drkastin09@yahoo.com

With 17 years of orthodontic experience, Dr. Brett Kastin prides his practice on conservative early treatment and cost-free childhood dental monitoring, enabling the most effective treatment possible, as well as being a knowledgeable, compassionate clinician and friend. He utilizes state-of-theart materials and customized treatment. Dr. Kastin is a certified Invisalign® provider, has been president of the Rockland County Dental Society since 2006, and was voted Rockland’s “Top Orthodontist” by the dentists of Rockland County for the past 10 years. Initial exams are complimentary, as are children’s recall appointments.

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Tenafly Pediatrics 74 Pascack Road, Park Ridge, NJ 201-326-7120 Offices also in Tenafly, Fort Lee, Clifton, Paramus, and Oakland, NJ tenaflypediatrics.com

Dr. David Schaumberger is one of the pediatricians working out of our newly expanded Park Ridge office. As someone who lives nearby, he enjoys working in Northern Bergen and Rockland counties. Dr. Schaumberger completed his pediatric residency from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York and has been working at Tenafly Pediatrics since 2001. On a personal note, he enjoys ethnic cuisine and spending time with his three children. Tenafly Pediatrics is a recent Angie’s List winner with offices conveniently located throughout Bergen County.

A & R Advanced Dental Group, Anna Alekseyeva, D.D.S., Roman Izmailov, D.D.S. 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-364-9400 aradvanceddental.com

At A&R Advanced Dental Group, patient satisfaction and comfort is our No. 1 priority. We are a cutting-edge practice that delivers state-of-the-art dental care to our patients. Dr. Roman Izmailov and Dr. Anna Alekseyeva have more than 30 years of experience in all phases of dentistry, including high-quality and affordable dental implants, zirconia crowns, porcelain veneers, fixed bridges, root canal treatments, teeth whitening, and composite fillings. Evening appointments are available and we accept most insurances.

Sachdev Family Orthodontics 124 E. Ramapo Road, Suite 2, Garnerville 845-786-7736 sfojustsmile.com sfojustsmile@gmail.com Facebook.com/sachdevfamilyorthodontics Instagram: @sachdevfamilyorthodontics

At Sachdev Family Orthodontics, we provide individualized braces and Invisalign treatment to kids and adults. Dr. Ameeta Sachdev has been in the dental field for two decades with dual dental degrees from India and the U.S. She teaches orthodontics at St. Barnabas Hospital, Bronx. She pays attention to detail, whether it is designing the state-of-the-art office herself or perfecting your smile. Being committed to serve, she is an active supporter of community events and local art. Most insurance accepted, evening and Saturday hours, and 24hour emergency service available.

Bear Brook Dental Care Dr. Kiwon Lee, D.D.S. Adult Dentistry & Dental Medicine for Sleep Apnea 305 W. Grand Ave., Suite 100, Montvale, NJ 201-746-9474 bearbrookdentalcare.com; info@bearbrookdentalcare.com

Dr. Kiwon Lee received his D.D.S. degree from Columbia University and completed his residency at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center. Dr. Lee is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is also a Diplomate of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Dr. Kiwon Lee is well-recognized in the industry as one of the most experienced dental sleep medicine providers, having successfully managed more than 500 obstructive sleep apnea patients during his career and being featured as an expert on “American Health Front” on WCBS-TV, CBS, Channel 2.

Crystal Run 2 Centerock Road, West Nyack 845-348-1100 crystalrunhealthcare.com

Crystal Run Healthcare is a premier multispecialty group medical practice with more than 400 providers, offering the convenience of Primary Care and nearly 50 medical specialties. Our state-of-the-art West Nyack facility offers patients easy access to quality health care with more than 20 medical and surgical specialties, including adolescent medicine, pediatrics, maternal-fetal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, including urogynecology. Our innovative facility boasts an Infusion Center, Urgent Care, diagnostic testing services, on-siteon Saving money LOOKING FOR laboratory services, diagnostic imaging, and women’s imaging. Crystal Run New York City also has offices in Haverstraw, Stony Point, and a Suffern.

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Dr. Tommy Lee specializes in pediatric dentistry. He treats patients from infancyadolescence, including children with special needs. Understanding that many dental phobias develop in early childhood, Dr. Lee will take great care to ensure your kids grow up with a positive outlook on oral health. Even the most nervous child will leave with a healthier smile under Dr. Lee’s care. Dr. Lee earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree at Boston University and completed his pediatric dental specialty training at Yale School of Medicine. Most major insurance accepted.

Dental Wellness of Suffern Sherri Alpert, D.D.S. 2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern 845-918-1801 dentalwellnessofsuffern.com dentalwellness@optonline.net

Dr. Alpert is excited to offer drill-free, needle-free dentistry with the Solea CO2 Laser. Her practice offers comfortable cosmetic dentistry for the entire family including implants and full-mouth reconstruction if necessary. Dental Wellness of Suffern provides natural, effective, quality dental care to make your visit as enjoyable, comfortable, and relaxing as possible. A parent herself, Dr. Alpert enjoys working with children who are apprehensive about the dentist, creating a fun environment with magic tricks, a wall mural, and a Find the Dental Helpers game.

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Smile More Kidz Meet Your Smile Team 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan 845-367-7782 smilemorekidz.com

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Bear Brook Children’s Dental Specialists Dr. Tommy Lee, D.M.D., Pediatric Dentist 305 W. Grand Ave., Suite 100, Montvale, NJ 201-746-9474 bearbrookdentalcare.com info@bearbrookdentalcare.com

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S. Ramaswamy, D.D.S. 515 S. Main St., New City 845-634-9603 ramaswamysmile.com info@ramaswamysmile.com

Our state-of-the-art office specializes in helping our patients achieve beautiful smiles. All work on our patients is expertly provided personally by Dr. Ramaswamy and not delegated to auxiliaries. Dr. Ramaswamy belongs to an elite group of orthodontists that have board certification with the American Board of Orthodontists. Only 25 percent of orthodontists have achieved this recognition and have this commitment to the standards of specialty practice. He attends continuing education courses yearly to ensure the best care possible. Invisalign certified. Most insurance accepted.

Occupational Therapy for Toddlers to Teens! SPOTS provides Occupational Therapy evaluations, individual and group therapy services. We are committed to improving: • Sensory Processing Skills New • Fine and Gross Motor Skill Development Orangeburg • Handwriting Remediation Location • Social Skills • Attention and Self-Regulation Skills Call us today for a complimentary phone consultation to see how occupational therapy can help your child.

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30 Ramland Road Orangeburg, NY 10962 845-848-2228 | www.SPOTSOT.com RocklandParent 47

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NEED to plan the perfect party? FIND venues, entertainers, suppliers,

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NYMetroParents.com

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

Rockland Center for the Arts .........................................23

Good Samaritan Hospital ..............................................52

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................9

Kastin & Newman Orthodontics......................................46 Lipson Family Coaching.................................................41

birthday / party services

dance

Nyack Pediatric Dentistry ..............................................45

Academy for Martial Arts ...............................................43

Coupe Theatre Studio ...................................................23

Sachdev Family Orthodontics...................................45, 46

Jill’s Ceramics ................................................................39

Danceworks ...................................................................37

Smile More Dentistry ...............................................26, 47

New City Bowling & Batting Cages ................................26

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio ............................26

Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry...................43, 46

Palisades Climb Adventure ..............................................9

Spots OT........................................................................47

Rockland Parent Party Planner......................................48

developmental

SweetGuy Ice Cream Truck .........................................21

Otto Specht School ..........................................................8

Suresh Ramaswamy. D.D.S. ...................................41, 47 Tenafly Pediatrics ..........................................................46

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................9 Vision Sports Club .........................................................45

education

West Rock Indoor...........................................................43

German Language School Westwood ...........................23 Green Meadow Waldorf School .......................................7

camps

Lindgren School & Camp ...............................................25

Academy for Martial Arts ...............................................43

Otto Specht School ..........................................................8

Camp Ramaquois ..........................................................23

St Catharine Early Childhood Center ............................26

Clarkstown Theatre Company .......................................25

Tutor Time - New City ....................................................45

Coupe Theatre Studio ...................................................23 Danceworks ...................................................................37

family entertainment / events / outings

German Language School Westwood ...........................23

Jill’s Ceramics ................................................................39

Green Meadow Waldorf School .......................................7

New City Bowling & Batting Cages ................................26

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio ............................26

Palisades Center .............................................................3

Lindgren School & Camp ...............................................25

Palisades Climb Adventure ..............................................9

performing arts / acting Clarkstown Theatre Company .......................................25 Coupe Theatre Studio ...................................................23

restaurant / food services Palisades Center .............................................................3 SweetGuy Ice Cream Truck .........................................21

retail Palisades Center .............................................................3 Tilly...A Deer’s Tale.........................................................45

special needs

Rockland Center for the Arts .........................................23 St Thomas Aquinas College ..........................................21

fitness

Vision Sports Club .........................................................45

Danceworks ...................................................................37

West Rock Indoor...........................................................43

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................9 Vision Sports Club .........................................................45

Children’s Dentistry of the Palisades .............................45 Lipson Family Coaching.................................................41 Nyack Pediatric Dentistry ..............................................45 Otto Specht School ..........................................................8 Spots OT........................................................................47

child care / day care

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................9

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio ............................26

health

St Catharine Early Childhood Center ............................26

Bear Brook Dental Care ..........................................21, 47

Tutor Time - New City ....................................................45

Children’s Dentistry of the Palisades .............................45

sports

Clemente Orthodontics ..................................................37

Academy for Martial Arts ...............................................43

classes

Crystal Run Healthcare..............................................2, 47

New City Bowling & Batting Cages ................................26

Clarkstown Theatre Company .......................................25

Dental Wellness of Suffern.................................25, 46, 47

Palisades Climb Adventure ..............................................9

German Language School Westwood ...........................23

Fidelis Care New York .....................................................5

West Rock Indoor...........................................................43

RocklandParent 49

raising kids voices

Fear Factor

››

I let my son watch scary movies—and we’re both happier.

t started with Stranger Things. My husband, my son Henri, and I watched the first season together and loved it. I was terrified, but Henri was cool as a cucumber. He’s always loved scary stuff. Even as a toddler, he was never freaked out by gruesome Halloween costumes or macabre movies such as Coraline. There was only one occasion when he woke me up in the middle of the night from a nightmare. He was 4 years old at the time and he dreamed of a skeleton called Masterpiece. His retelling of it scared the bejeezus out of me, but he—having unloaded it all—managed to go right back to bed. When the second season of Stranger Things came out, Henri and a group of friends got together to binge-watch it. I know some other parents gave us the hairy eyeball for allowing our 11-year-old to watch it, and frankly, I also questioned the appropriateness. But then something magical happened. This pack of boys, who normally just played online, suddenly wanted to be like Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Will—which meant riding their bikes to each other’s houses and going in search of adventures. It made my 1980s inner child sing with happiness. And it also made me realize that some scary things are okay. But then came It, the Stephen King movie. He wanted to see it and I wasn’t so sure. “Please, mom. I promise, it’s not too scary. Dad said it’s okay.” I wasn’t as concerned about the scariness as I was about the

By Patti Woods

violence and language—but I also knew he was already exposed to a lot of that. And honestly, I wanted a night to hang with my increasingly independent son. So, one Saturday night, I relented. My husband went to bed early, leaving Henri and me and a big bowl of popcorn. The previews alone had my heart thumping. “It’s not real, Mom,” he continually reminded me. I wrapped myself tightly in a blanket and white-knuckled it, trying not to scream. How could he be so calm? And then it happened. During the scene when Pennywise the Clown peeks out from the sewer, Henri reached out and grabbed my hand. This was a child who never wanted me to hold his hand—even when he was a little kid crossing the street or walking into the first day of school. So, when he tightly squeezed my fingers, Pennywise took a backseat to the utter joy glowing in me. He needed me! My tough tween son actually still could be vulnerable. I won’t go so far as to say he snuggled with me that night, but for two hours, we experienced something together. I’m still not a fan of scary movies, but I’m not against them either. Stranger Things helped him tighten the bonds of his friendships and It gave him a gentle reminder that it’s still okay to need your mom. Now I can’t wait to surprise him with a trip to the local haunted house.

Patti Woods is a freelance writer living in Connecticut. Her work has appeared in many places such as The Boston Globe, The Christian Science Monitor, Today’s Parent, The Week, and more. She is the author of Lost Restaurants of Fairfield (The History Press, 2015).

July 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY! NYMetroParents.com is parents' Party Central—one-stop shopping for the best in: H Party Places (for the trendiest, newest, or most classic locale) H Entertainers (clowns, balloon twisting, magicians, spa parties & so much more!) H Gift-Giving (from charitable ideas to the best presents for every age) H At-Home Party Themes (think pirates, princesses, superheroes, Harry Potter…) H Planning Help H Tips & Tricks from the Pros (…and parents who’ve been there!) Bergen•RocklandParent NORTH

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Class Is In!

After-School Activities

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Back-to-School Resource Guide Pack a Smarter Lunch Ease the Morning Rush Advocate for Your Twins

How to Manage Kids’ Schedules

What Makes a Good Mentor?

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Events

Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

Where-To Guide: Berry Picking

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Dinosaur Fun

Where-To Guide: Apple Picking • Outing: New York Hall of Science

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