Brooklyn rooklyn Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM PARENTS.COM JUNE 2018
Here Comes Summer! • Fun Ways to Keep Kids Learning • Savvy Tips to $ave on Vacations • Awesome Activities Near You
The Daddy/Baby Bond: Real Fathers Tell All
Is Your Home Safe? 10 Things to Do Before Traveling
HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS
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“ANDREW LLOYD WEBBERREUTERS HAS BROADWAY ROCKING!” “FISTS OF ALL AGES SHALL BE PUMPING!” VANITY FAIR
BASED ON THE HIT MOVIE
SchoolOfRockTheMusical.com | WINTER GARDEN THEATRE | 50TH & BROADWAY ORIGINAL CAST RECORDING AVAILABLE ON WARNER BROS. RECORDS PHOTO BY DAVID PEROU © 2015 RUG LTD
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contents table of
Original photo by ›› PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com)
june 2018
28 40 summer fun
44
16 Fun Ways to Stem the Summer Slide 20 Summer Fun Directory
Summertime Shine
Find nearby beaches, carousels, amuseument parks, and strawberry festivals for a fun June
Prep Your Home for Your Vacation Ten things to do before traveling to keep your house safe—and give you peace of mind
College Crash Course
Conversations to have with your teen before he heads off to college to ensure he has a successful four years
raising kids
things to do
family life
6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Traveling With Your Pet 12 Drowning Devices…and Diversions 42 The Beauty of Daddy-Baby Bonding 44 College Crash Course 46 Professional Services and Party Central 47 Open Houses 48 Meet the Doctor 49 Advertisers’ Index 50 Quotables
13 Freeze Style
38 Vacationing on a Budget
28 Summertime Shine
40 Prep Your Home for Your Vacation
29 Family Activities Calendar 36 Family Fun in Manhattan
NYMetroParents
Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 16 Fun Ways to Keep Kids Learning 20 Awesome Activities Near You 38 Savvy Tips to $ave on Vacations 40 Is Your Home Safe? 42 The Daddy/Baby Bond facebook.com/nymetroparents
@NYMetroParents Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!
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raising kids editor’s note
JUNE 2018 • Vol.14 • No.11
NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Deborah Skolnik MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf ASSISTANT EDITOR: Melissa Wickes
Summer, We’ve Missed You!
W
inter felt like it would never end. And then when it finally, finally did, the rain started. So we’re making no apologies for being extra-psyched for summer this year! That’s right: It’s time to haul out the cooler, unfold the lounge chairs, fire up the grill, and…did you think I was going to say relax? Come on, you’ve got kids! If you slack off, your children probably will too. Research shows that on average in summer they lose a month’s worth of the knowledge they acquired during the school year. But don’t worry, we’ve got an easy solution: Turn to p. 16 to read “Fun Ways to Stem the Summer Slide” by Christina Vercelletto. It features eight fascinating places where kids can learn something new while having a uniquely entertaining time. And how about overnight trips? Chances are you’re hoping to go on one with the fam this season. It can be tricky to plan a relaxing getaway that doesn’t put some stress on your finances, though. That’s why we hit up leading travel experts for their best moneysaving advice, shared in Melissa Wickes’ piece “Vacationing on a Budget” on p. 38. Read it and you’ll learn about secret sources of affordable travel packages, credit-card tricks that earn you deep discounts, and more. But don’t hit the road just yet! First have a look at “Prep Your Home for Your Vacation” on p. 40—security experts shared their best tips on how to keep your home burglarproof even while you’re away. Of course we haven’t forgotten about Father’s Day. Dad power is a very real thing, and Jennie Russo’s feature, “The Beauty of Daddy-Baby Bonding” on p. 42, proves it. She got four real dads to dish on what makes fathers feel close to their newborns, and the things they did to build that all-important feeling of attachment. Speaking of powerful attachments, if you have a college-bound kid, you’re probably feeling kind of misty about his impending departure. Don’t miss “College Crash Course” (p. 44) by Caitlin Sawicki. It gives the lowdown on some very important conversations you need to have with your child to assure his success as he heads for higher education. Valerie Goldstein discusses how she got schooled—in the art of unplugging, that is—in her hilarious and touching essay, “Drowning Devices…and Diversions” on p. 12. When her toddler dropped her phone in the toilet, Valerie lost all her contacts for a while—but found herself in closer touch with her children and her sense of inner peace. One last thing I want to mention: Time’s almost up for you to enter our contest to get your child on the cover of our magazines. Doesn’t your cutie deserve a shot at fame— and doesn’t your whole family deserve a great, FREE vacation? That’s the grand prize, and there’s more besides. Entering is easy—go to nymetroparents.com/covercontest and upload a favorite photo of your child, ages 2-16. Good luck! Hoping your month is the very picture of happiness. Deborah Skolnik Editorial Director, NYMetroParents
REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan, Westchester); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Alana Coopersmith To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents
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Maritime
raising kids new places, new programs Who: Camp Maritime What’s New: The inaugural season of the camp, which will begin June 25. The camp will offer a variety of activities for children ages 8-14 who have an interest in maritime culture. Campers will learn skills such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, sailing, and motorboating. Children must have basic swimming skills and be capable of light exertion to participate in camp. The camp is based at its 30-foot private dock on Emmons Avenue, but staff has access to 144 launch sites around the city. The curriculum is based on experiential, student-centered discovery learning. All activities are hands-on and led by experienced educators and sailors. Want More Info: 3000 Emmons Ave., Sheepshead Bay; 718-332-4859; campmaritime.com
Courtesy Camp
Nautical-Themed Camp to Open in Sheepshead Bay
ter sport ers a variety of wa Camp Maritime off wind surfing. ing lud inc , ies related activit
Who: Urban Explorers Day Camp What’s New: Enrichment curriculum for all ages to go along with NYC field trips. Urban Explorers Day Camp has four board of education-licensed teachers instructing students using an age-appropriate curriculum merged with classic camp fun. Campers will partake in a variety of activities that teach music, karate, and theater, as well as basketball, which will be taught by the coach of a local high school basketball team. “We offer structure, but the kids don’t feel it,” says camp director Chris DiGennaro. “The city is the classroom and students will learn about the places they will visit during the week of the day trip through fun actvities.” Want More Info: 3832 Flatlands Ave., Marine Park; 718-951-9732; urbanexplorers.nyc
Courtesy Urban Explorers
Brooklyn Camp Introduces Enrichment Curriculum with Day Trips Throughout the City
Campers at Urban Explorers are taught by experienced educators certified by the New York board of education.
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June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
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raising kids in the know
Traveling With Your Pet ›› By Bethany Braun-Silva and Jeff Weber, D.V.M.
I
f you’ll be enjoying a getaway this summer, make sure to include Fido! As overwhelming as traveling with a cat or dog may seem, it’s doable if you prepare. Jeff Weber, D.V.M., shares five things you should know about traveling with your furry friend. With proper planning and preparedness, traveling with your pets can be great fun and hassle-free! Familiarize your pet with travel. If you’ll be taking a road trip, acclimate him to car rides through brief practice runs. Once the drive is complete, give praise and a treat. Increase the time gradually so he becomes accustomed. Use this same approach to get her used to a carrier or crate. Make a thorough packing list. You’ll want to take along the essentials, of course, such as a leash, food bowl, medications your pet needs, a favorite toy, and litter box (if you have a cat). But don’t forget important documents as well such as his medical records and emergency information. Double-check that her collar-tag has your contact information in case you get separated, and that you have a photo of her on hand. Consider medications or supplements to help him with car or motion sickness; consult your veterinarian first. Dogs have sensitive GI tracts, so fill a gallon jug with your local water. At every stop, fill the jug back to the top so new water is gradually introduced. Keep pets restrained in a car either with a harness attached to a seat belt, or a pet carrier anchored with a seat belt. Pets running
freely in a car distract the driver. Plan stops around feeding times and bathroom breaks. Make sure to connect the leash to his collar before opening the car door. Never leave her in a parked car. A parked car with a panting, nervous dog inside can get hot, very quickly. Understand your airline’s pet policies. Not all airlines allow pets; others limit the number of animals per flight, in cabin and in cargo. Be sure your pet’s physical condition is compatible with flight. Discuss illnesses, injuries, and health risks with your veterinarian. Certain dog breeds have special respiratory considerations. Find pet-friendly accommodations. Let friends or family know you’re bringing your pet. There may be a resident animal that might not be so welcoming. Bring some new toys and help out with pet-related chores. Or find a pet-friendly hotel and ask about the size of animal allowed.
A graduate of the University of California Davis Veterinary School, Jeff Weber, D.V.M., established his Los Angeles-based clinic, Century Veterinary Group, in 1988. To learn more, visit drjeff.com.
Where Happy, Healthy Smiles Dr. T. Francis Are Second Nature Board Certified Pediatric Dentist 150 Fourth Avenue (Between Butler St. & Douglas St.) Brooklyn, NY 11217 718-488-0200 www.parkslopekidsdental.com Tues 2-6 Wed 2-6 Thu 8-5 Fri 8-5 Sat 8-2 A Brand New, State-of-the-Art Pediatric Dental Office Participating With Most Insurances Latex-free Office
We understand the importance of creating a strong foundation for oral health early on, which is why we focus on making dental care fun for kids! When children enjoy their time here, they’re that much more likely to enjoy beautiful, healthy smiles for life!! By appointment only!!!! Call Today! PkSlpKidsDental 10
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
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At The George Washington University Online High School, we offer highly personalized learning, and intensive college advising for 8th through 12th graders. With our academically challenging education, your student will be well-prepared for college.
Learn more at an online information session. Visit gwuohs.com/events or call 855.748.4731 for more details. BrooklynParent 11
Courtesy Valerie Goldstein
raising kids voices
Drowning Devices…and Diversions ›› How I became a more mindful parent when my daughter flushed my phone By Valerie Goldstein
I
t has been awhile since my cellphone took a memorable dive into the toilet. My then 14-month-old daughter took it, unbeknownst to me, and decided to play with it in the toilet like a sprightly kitten. Within the 2 minutes it took for me to give my son antibiotics for strep throat, that little nugget let my cellular device sink to the bottom of the bowl to its final porcelain resting place. She flushed my memories and contacts, but managed to give me a newfound freedom. I did not possess one single ounce of anger or frustration (I could never be mad at that face, anyhow). I just prayed my photos from the past two years could somehow be restored. Who backs up their phone, right? Sigh. I envisioned myself without my phone for a couple of days. I didn’t have any upcoming phone conferences, so survival was possible. In the first 24 hours sans phone, I would reach into my empty pocket to text someone, or want to take a photo of my children to preserve the memory. By day two, I lost the urge to do my daily Facebook check or read the news from a tiny screen. Not once did I hear, “Mommy, look at me!” I was already present and watching. There was no need to glance down at a text message, or investigate why I was receiving a “ping” every other minute. Oh, those group chats... I felt as if I were more tuned in to each child, and truly able to give each one my full attention. In the couple of weeks following my phone’s complete engulfment into the washroom water abyss, each child made great strides. My then 4-year-old started reading three-letter words, my then 3-year-old was able to identify all of his shapes, as well as half of his letters and numbers, and my then 14-month-old said “purple” and something that resembles “caterpillar”. We regularly spend a great deal of time reading together, but for those few weeks, I was able to spend more time reading to them individually, as well as focusing on their age-appropriate skills. I could not help but wonder: Was my lack of phone contributing to these
Valerie Goldstein with her family
milestones? In addition, it felt like our 1-on-1 cuddle times were longer, and we spoke about the highlights of our day in detail. Not to mention, our finger painting and rock-finding explorations were more frequent. My mom commented that I seemed more relaxed without my cellphone. I felt less tense by not reading stress-inducing posts on social media sites or foreboding articles that made me fret. I found myself reading tangible articles, and reveling in the smell and touch of paper, like I always have (National Geographic Traveler is my newfound love). I checked Facebook on a couple of occasions, but my broken iPad is slower than the dial-up AOL I used in high school. I’m glad it’s as slow as molasses because I think my mind had been craving a much-needed break from social media and other nonsensical outlets. I think we all need this, whether you have children or not. Exactly three weeks after the incidental immersion, I received my new phone. While my contacts took an additional week to be restored, I was finally able to look up anything in an instant. Surprisingly, I did not touch it until the following day. Maybe it’s like after Hurricane Sandy, when I still sat in the dark even though the power was restored. I was used to not having power for 14 days, so it took time for me to register that I could finally turn the lights on. I had grown used to not having my phone on me at all times, and deep down, I know I had a couple of great weeks without it. I did not miss the interruptions, or having my attention diverted from the important things in life. With a phone back in my life, I am going to strive to put away electronic devices until my children are asleep. My objective will continue to be more mindful, present, and living in the here and now with my family. They are my everything, and each precious moment does not necessarily need to be captured through the lens of my phone. The sights, sounds, and sensations I take in by being in the moment will far surpass dozens of digital prints I deem as being perfect.
Valerie Goldstein is a freelance writer who lives in Northport with her husband and three children, ages 5, 4, and 2. She conducts presentations for preschool and elementary students on disabilities and those with different abilities to promote social awareness and inspire discussions on acceptance and diversity. She has been published in Woman’s Day and ADVANCE for Occupational Therapy Practitioners. She writes about being a mother with disabilities and other inspiring topics at myfiretoinspire.blogspot.com.
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June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
things to do
Freeze Style
diy corner
Nothing screams summertime and fun camp days to us quite like tie-dyeing T-shirts, but we’re ready for a new take on the multi-colored tops. Enter Kid Made Modern’s galaxylike T-shirt, which uses frozen cubes of dye that have been smashed up with a hammer. So prepare your materials and head outside for an afternoon of custom T-shirt making fun!
You will need: • Dye • Ice cube trays • Plastic sandwich bags • Hammer • Cloth for hammering • Washed T-shirt Step 1: Prepare dye colors and freeze them in ice cube trays. Place the frozen cubes in plastic bags. Step 2: Place the cloth on top of the bag and lightly break the cubes apart with the hammer.
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Step 3: This part can get messy so best to do this outside. Sprinkle the frozen dye onto the T-shirt as you like. Step 4: Continue sprinkling the frozen dye onto the T-shirt until your design is complete. Step 5: Watch the dye diffuse and blend and then shake the dye off when you feel the design is finished. Rinse and “set” per the dye instructions on the box.
Project and images courtesy Kid Made Modern
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Academy of Early Education
Fall Enrollment Pre-K For All Summer Camp Late & Early Care Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play, children learn how to learn. Come find out why our preschool graduates are reading by the time they enter kindergarten. Open daily from 6:30AM - 6:30PM
412 Kings Highway • Brooklyn, NY 11223 718-627-7340 • www.TheLearningExperience.com Academy of Early Education
Now Accepting Applications for the 2018-19 school year
2018-19 school year. We are also accepting applications for grades 10 and 11. At UFT we give all students the opportunity to achieve academic and personal excellence. We will graduate students who are fully prepared for a demanding college education and satisfying career. We will prepare students for meaningful lives as full democratic citizens in a free society.
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1-718-927-5540 14
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
online extras Itching for an unexpected New York adventure? Find 37 off-the-beaten-path things to do and see in NYC at ›› nymetroparents.com/unexpected There’s so much to do and see in the New York metro area, it can feel overwhelming. So check out our list of top 100 can’t-miss events, venues, and activities in the region at ›› nymetroparents.com/summer-100
Want to plan a family vacation that’s within driving distance? Read about eight of our favorite destinations all within a 3-hour car ride at ›› nymetroparents.com/nearby-vacations Keeping your kids safe from drowning while they’re in the water is important, but what about when they’re out? Read about dry and secondary drowning at ›› nymetroparents.com/dry-drowning
inside
raising kids summer fun
16 F un Ways to Stem the Summer Slide: Eight educational day trips to keep your kids entertained while learning all season long. ummer Fun Directory: Find 20 S summer classes, programs, activities, and excursions in Brooklyn.
Photos courtesy New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Fun Ways to Stem the
Summer Slide
›› Keep your kids entertained while learning something new all season long. By Christina Vercelletto
S
ummer vacation. Those two words conjure up the happiest, most carefree memories of childhood. But aside from lazy, hazy days, summer brings something else: a phenomenon experts call “summer slide.” On average, student achievement scores decline over summer vacation by one month as compared to where they were in June, states a report by the Brookings Institution. And the loss was larger at middle and high school grades than in elementary school. These days, between camp, vacations, birthday parties, and sports, kids don’t have much time to reinforce the academic skills they learned during the school year. And even if they did, there’s no way you’re actually going to make your kid do math worksheets instead of hitting the beach. So, however understandable the summer learning loss is, the result is kids, and their teachers, have to play catch-up in September. What’s a fun-minded, but achievement-conscious, parent to do? Compromise, of course. We scoured our region to identify fascinating places you can take the kids that have an educational spin, yet still have that “school’s out!” vibe. No matter where you live, or what your kid’s personality is like, you’ll find the perfect idea on this list. If he’s a nature-lover, explore Piermont Marsh & Pier Piermont, Rockland County dec.ny.gov A federal estuarine sanctuary, the Piermont Marsh (pictured above) spans 2 miles on the western shore of the Tappan Zee. “The pier is a great scenic 16
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
walk and has a lot of history,” says Stephanie Mullen, a mom in Blauvelt. Families can hike or bike the trails, kayak, or canoe. If you have a license, you can fish or crab off the mile-long pier while taking in views of the Hudson River and Palisades Ridge. Birds are everywhere; during the summer, keep an eye out for species such as double-crested cormorants, ruddy ducks, blue jays, yellow-rumped warblers, and bald eagles. Harbor seals and snapping turtles have also been spotted in the area. If you’d like to bring a picnic lunch, it’s allowed at adjacent Tallman Mountain State Park. There’s also a fascinating historical aspect to this destination. During World War II, more than half a million soldiers left for Europe from the pier, and those who came home returned directly to it. Every Memorial Day, a three-story high “watchfire” is lit for 24 hours at the end of the pier to symbolically light the way home for the soldiers who perished in the conflict. If she says math is boring, visit National Museum of Mathematics 11 E. 26th St., Nomad, Manhattan momath.org Some kids can get turned off to math when they associate it with dull drills to find the right answer. The antidote? Seeing math for what it is: the patterns that undergird the world around us. Enter “MoMath” with its more than 30 interactive exhibits, including a laser beam “wall,” a Jumbotron floor that illuminates the spatial relationship of everyone standing
CAMP MARKETPLACE
on it, a design studio for creating 3-D designs, and a café devoted to digital puzzles. And good luck dragging your kids away from Robot Swarm, an interactive exhibit that has glowing, robotic creatures that resemble crabs reacting to their every move based on one of several directives. If he has a big imagination, head to Old Bethpage Village Restoration 1303 Round Swamp Road, Bethpage, Nassau County, Long Island obvrnassau.com Long Island kids have been taking field trips to this Colonial Williamsburg-esque hamlet, snacking on root beer and pretzels at the Noon Inn bar and buying candy sticks at the Layton General Store, since the 1970s. The authentic homes and shops—the oldest built in 1730—will entrance any kid who likes to imagine what life was like in another time. A blacksmith hammers away in his shop, while across the way the hatter is putting the finishing touches on a man’s chapeau. Women are sewing and knitting, candles are being made, pottery is being shaped, and tin is being worked into housewares. The village runs special programs year-round. Two of the most popular in the summer are the Civil War encampment weekends and baseball games played using 1860 rules and equipment. “Jack, who’s in little league, loved watching this old-time game!” shares Melissa Koehler of Seaford. If your kid is really enamored of the whole experience when you visit, you may want to sign him up for one of the summer “Junior Apprentice” weeks. He’ll go to school in an 1845 schoolhouse, make ice cream with a crank, do farm chores, make a scarecrow (a necessity, not a decoration), play 1860s games, and take part in military drills, something even 10-year-olds did back then. If she hates art class, walk around Hudson River Museum 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers, Westchester County hrm.org Does your child think art period is a waste of time? Give her a boost (and make next year angst-free) with a visit to Hudson River Museum. The three summer exhibits running concurrently showcase art that isn’t exactly traditional. Force Field displays the work of Brooklyn artist Christine Hiebert: line drawings, made with charcoal, graphite, and ink, and even dirt. Artist Ellen Kozak and composer Scott D. Miller collaborated on Riverthatflowsbothways, a four-channel video installation. Taking its name from the translation of the Native American word for the Hudson River, the videos don’t show scenic views or much realism at all, but instead have viewers feeling the movement of a river. Variations on a Theme displays the minimalist art of Donald Judd, a collection of 16 etchings. Judd wanted his art to be self-evident, meaning whatever the viewer sees is what it is. Your child will go home knowing she can be an artist after all. Among the permanent exhibits, Red Grooms: The Bookstore, a funky, immersive, pop-art installation, is a kid magnet. “Every time we went there, Grace made a beeline for The Bookstore,” recalls Darcy Falcone, a mom of two in New Rochelle. If he’s not interested unless it’s digital, visit New York Hall of Science 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens nysci.org Presented in the Great Hall, Connected Worlds is an exhibit that shows kids, in real time, how even their slightest movements impact the rest of planet Earth. Six environments are fed by a 38-foot-high waterfall that flows across an interactive floor. It’ll be crystal-clear how what we do here has repercussions across the world, and vice versa. Mini (15-minute) interactive science demonstrations are happening throughout the summer, during which NYSCI Explainers demonstrate easy-to-grasp experiments in chemistry, physics, and biology.
N U F ER HERE
S M T R M A T U S S
REGISTER TODAY!
CHELSEA PIERS SUMMER CAMPS The Area’s Best Youth Sports Day Camps for Ages 3 -17 years. Transportation from Brooklyn. Golf • Performance Golf • Ice Hockey Acceleration Hockey • Ice Skating • Gymnastics Basketball • Elite Soccer • Sports Academy Ninja + Parkour • Urban Adventure for Teens
chelseapiers.com/camps
continued on next page ››
BrooklynParent 17 BP 1-2p Camp 6-18.indd 1
5/7/18 3:28 PM
SUMMER
CAMP
›› continued from previous page Courtesy Brooklyn Public Library
2018
CAMP MARKETPLACE
6-13 YEARS 9:30AM - 4:30PM
WEEK 1: JULY 9-13
WEEK 2:
JULY 16-20
WEEK 4: JULY 30AUG 3
Brooklyn Public Library, Central Branch, is a 1941 art deco landmark.
WEEK 5: AUG 6-10
WEEK 6: AUG 13-17
$675 per week STREB Lab for Action Mechanics
51 North 1st street, Brooklyn, NY 11249 PH:718-384-6491 WEB: www.streb.org EMAIL: info@streb.org
Tae Kwon Do Classes 4 weeks $49
plus free uniform
526 Court Street • Brooklyn, NY
(718) 625-5425
7909 3rd Avenue • Brooklyn, NY
(718) 492-5425
Best Martial Arts Camp Ever! $70 per day plus extra for Extended Hours
CrossFit Kids - Indoor/Outdoor Sports - Soccer - Basketball - Softball - Bowling - Field Trips
New After School Center in Bay Ridge 7811-3rd Ave • Call for Information! • 718-238-2975
nyctaekwondostudio.com
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If she thinks libraries are just for books, spend time at Brooklyn Public Library, Central Branch 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn bklynlibrary.org If your child stopped asking to go to the library when she was 5, this is the perfect place to reignite her interest. The Central Branch in Brooklyn, a 1941 art deco landmark, is on the National Register of Historic Places. It rivals the better-known New York Public Library in the wow-factor, thanks to the 50-foot-high entry portico and 15 bronze sculptures of famous characters and authors of American literature. Far from being a storehouse of books overseen by a shushing librarian, BPL will surprise and delight any kid who hasn’t been to a library in a while. The Tech Loft houses 27 computers for children ages 16 and younger. The Universal Maker Space will inspire kids to put down their phone (for a few minutes, anyway) and get creative. With a parent’s supervision, kids can take over the amateur recording studio, equipped with an iMac editing workstation, DSLR camera, and microphone, to make their own audio or video masterpiece. High school students can learn new computer skills in a two-week summer technology institute, and then help patrons use library computers (fulfilling school community service requirements and polishing up college applications). Before you go, duck into the Popular Library department and introduce your kid to ancient relics: a typewriter and a phone book. If Stephen Hawking was his hero, go to The Vanderbilt Reichert Planetarium 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport, Suffolk County, Long Island vanderbiltmuseum.org Long Island parents with a kid who’s into astronomy need not truck in to the Upper West Side for stellar educational fun. The Vanderbilt’s Reichert Planetarium recently got a $4-million makeover. The theater offers top-notch educational programs for families, some developed by the most prestigious planetariums around the world. The sky shows recreate celestial events before your eyes on a 60-foot dome. “The Vanderbilt has been one of our go-tos for ages,” says Ruthie Bein, a mom of four in Babylon. “And when you’re done with the planetarium, there’s an interesting museum and mansion on the same beautiful property.” The rooftop observatory is open every Friday night, weather permitting. Led by a professional astronomy educator, you and your kids can look deep into the night sky through the Vanderbilt’s 16-inch Meade reflecting telescope. Christina Vercelletto, a former editor at NYMetroParents, Parenting, Scholastic Parent & Child, and Woman’s Day, lives on Long Island with her kids, a chiweenie, Pickles, and a 20-pound calico, Chub-Chub.
CAMP MARKETPLACE
Call for a Personal Tour Anytime!
June 25- Aug 3, 2018
LeifEricsonDaySchool
BECOME THE ARTIST YOU ARE MEANT TO BE Summer Arts at BROOKLYN FRIENDS SCHOOL offers a world of opportunity for children ages 7 to 12 to enhance their talents, learn new skills, stretch their imaginations, and make good friends. Join us for summer-in-the-city adventures, swimming, first-hand arts experiences, field trips, creative workshops, and much more.
Three sessions, June and July 2018
375 Pearl Street in Brooklyn near MetroTech & Boro Hall 718.852.1029 ext. 248
brooklynfriends.org/bfssummer
WE OFFER EARLYBIRD & AFTERCAMP, AS WELL AS SIBLING DISCOUNTS. BrooklynParent 19
Summer fun ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS
Land of Make Believe
354 Great Meadows Road, Route 611, Hope, NJ 908-459-9000 lomb.com The No. 1 Amusement Park in northern New Jersey is the perfect day trip destination! A magical amusement park and a pirate-themed state-of-the-art water park features short lines, free parking, low prices, and awesome family fun. Ride the Scream Machine 360, our Ultimate New Thrill Experience this season! Bring your own food and enjoy our beautiful picnic grove. Safe, wholesome, family atmosphere is just minutes away. Open Memorial Day weekend, then weekends in June. Open daily, 10am-6pm from June 16–Sept. 3. Visit us on Facebook.
Rab’s Country Lanes
1600 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island 718-979-1600 bowlatrabs.com fran@bowlatrabs.com Rab’s Country Lanes has been providing a fun, safe haven for Staten Island residents for more than 20 years. Rab’s provides a venue perfect for recreational, competitive, social play, and to celebrate any special occasion. It is more than just your neighborhood bowling alley: try Cosmic Bowling complete with a LED light show, or play the Laser Maze Challenge, in which you navigate through a puzzle of lasers. Also features a lounge, snack bar and pizzeria, and meeting rooms.
Wheel Fun Rentals - Marine Park
Avenue U and East 33rd Street, Marine Park 917-533-6196 LeFrak Center at Lakeside, 171 East Drive, Prospect Park 718-462-0010 9000 Bay Parkway, Bensonhurst Park 805-650-7770 Flushing Meadows Corona Park David Dinkins Circle, Meridian Road, Queens 929-343-2366 Flushing Meadows Corona Park at North Meadow Lake Meadow Lake Road West, Queens 917-231-5519 wheelfunrentals.com Rent some fun with Wheel Fun Rentals! Take a spin around the park on our iconic fourwheel, carriage-style bike called the Surrey. Or feel the splash of the water on a pedal boat. No matter your age or riding ability,
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there is something for you. Rentals products include specialty cycles, family bikes, twowheel bikes, bike attachments, pedal boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. Product fleet varies by location. Special group rates available for birthday parties and summer camp directors. Convenient locations in Brooklyn and Queens. wheelfunrentals.com; 805-650-7770.
Wild West City
50 Lackawanna Drive, Stanhope, NJ 973-347-8900 wildwestcity.com Come on down to Wild West City: the perfect place for a fun, unique, and educational day trip for all. We have a number of special events and shows that are sure to be hits with the entire family. Wild West City is a western heritage theme park that brings the old west back to life through portrayals of real-life western characters, legendary events, and a frontier town re-creation. Featuring 22 different live-action shows throughout the course of the day, we offer visitors the chance to “live” in the old west!
PROGRAMS & CLASSES April’s Dance-N-Feet
9409 and 9411 Avenue L 718-272-1813 4626 Flatlands Ave. 718-692-4809 aprilsdancingfeet.com Our classes are for ages 2 through adult. We teach ballet, tap, hip-hop, jazz, pointe, gymnastics, majorette, Caribbean, African, boys’ classes, adult classes, lyrical, praise dance, karate, private lessons, and competition classes. Call or stop into one of our three convenient Brooklyn locations for more information. We offer summer camp from July 7-Aug. 11 at the 4626 Flatlands Ave. location.
Brienza’s Academic Advantage Inc.
8696 18th Ave. 1902 Ave. T 718-232-0114 brienzas.com Brienza’s Academic Advantage offers a wide variety of academic programs for students attending kindergarten through 12th grade. We specialize in reading and math tutoring along with TACHS, SHSAT, Regents, SAT, and ACT preparation. Our programs provide students with the opportunity to increase their skills and knowledge, enabling them to reach their full potential and gain motivation and confidence. Programs offered are tutoring in all subjects, test preparation courses, Mandated Summer
School programs, and SETSS (P-4) services to qualified students. Please register early, as space is limited.
Brooklyn College Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts
234 Roosevelt Hall, 2900 Bedford Ave. 718-951-4111 bcprepcenter.org For 40 years, The Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College has offered private and group classes in music (piano, winds, percussion, brass, traditional and Suzuki strings), theater (audition prep, acting, and musical theater), and dance (from ballet to hip-hop and beyond), for children and teens of all levels. Prep Center’s Teen Division also includes Live-Action Filmmaking and Beat-Making classes, focusing on the newest technologies in film and composition! Our professional teachers, well-known experts in their fields, encourage students’ growth at all levels. Registration is underway for summer.
Brooklyn Friends School Summer Programs
375 Pearl St. 718-852-1029 brooklynfriends.org jmartin@brooklynfriends.org A nurturing environment fostering creativity, individual expression, and social interaction through activities including painting, collage, cooking, storytelling, drumming, dance, and tennis. Kids in kindergarten to second grade are afforded an enriching experience of specialty classes, swimming, cooking, arts, group games, and field trips encouraging creative exploration, physical awareness, and social interaction, including free play on the rooftop playground. For older children (ages 8-14), Summer Arts combines studio work with field trips to museums and artists’ studios. There are three sessions from mid-June through the end of July.
Camp Maritime
3000 Emmons Ave., Sheepshead Bay 718-332-4859 campmaritime.com Camp Maritime provides an exciting, academic, youth development and leadership program, blending nautical activities, science, and wellness! Taught in small groups by U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains and certified lifeguards and educators. Camp runs Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm, June 25-Aug. 31. Water activities include sailing, boating, windsurfing, kite boarding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, scuba continued on page 22››
CAMP MARKETPLACE
Music, Theater, Dance & Filmmaking www.BCprepCenter.org 718-951-4111 2900 Beford Avenue 234 Roosevelt Hall Brooklyn, NY 11210
6-week Summer Session starts on June 14: call/e-mail to register today!
Teen Division I Classes for the Very Young I Private lessons I Weekly Performances
E ARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 17 months – 5 years | Half or Full Day Early Morning/Curbside Drop Off | After School Care Lunch Program | Afternoon Enrichments including Science, Learning with Numbers & Letters, and more
Registration for this academic year is still open. For more information contact Caryn Symons, Early Childhood Director 914.472.3300 x336 | symonsc@jccmw.org 999 Wilmot rd Scarsdale NY | www.jccmw.org BrooklynParent 21
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diving, surfing, snorkeling, and fishing. On the final week, campers plan extended voyages—reading tide schedules, commanding the navigation, managing sail trim, and steering the course. Ten-week, five-week, or two-week programs and door-to-door pickup service available.
CBE KIDS CAMP Elementary and Travel camps
274 Garfield Place, Park Slope 718-768-3814 cbebk.org/camp bfinkelstein@cbebk.org CBE Kids Camps offer campers a summer of new experiences! The Elementary Division (ages 4½-9) includes swimming, sports, music, gymnastics, arts and crafts, nature, and circus arts. Movin’ On, CBE’s Travel Camp, uses the Temple House as a base for daily trips in and around Manhattan, two overnights, electives, and special events. Ha’Geemnasia, CBE KIDS Hebrew Camp, offers native Hebrew speaking counselors. Hebrew is integrated into the daily activities such as swim, sports, art, cooking, and dance. Transportation is available.
Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex Summer Camps
West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, Manhattan Camps: 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Located along the Hudson River, Chelsea Piers is a 28-acre sports village that offers NYC’s biggest and most flexible summer camp program! For 22 summers, athletes of all ages have enjoyed the most dynamic sports curriculum available. With up to 11 weeks and 15 sports to choose from, we have a camp for every athlete and schedule. Our coaches are dedicated year-round to provide athletes with a clean, safe, friendly, and fun environment. Transportation service from many Manhattan and Brooklyn neighborhoods and after care are available. Summer Camps run June 18-Aug. 31.
Dutch Total Soccer - Aviator Sports
3159 Flatbush Ave. 718-758-7500 dts-ny.com facebook.com/dtsnewyork Dutch Total Soccer Summer Skills Camps are offered at Aviator, Brooklyn from July 2– Aug. 10. Indoor and outdoor turf is available. Weekly sign up is possible. DTS Summer Camps offer a great balance between instructional training and games. Morning sessions consist of training and instructing players in technical aspects of the game. Afternoon sessions will be game-oriented. Camps are open to boys and girls ages 5-15. Junior half-day camps for ages 5-7, regular camps for ages 8-15, and advanced camps for ages 8-15.
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Eye Level Brooklyn
Eye Level Sheepshead Bay 1605 Voorhees Ave. 718-891-5437, Veronica Verdino Eye Level Park Slope 150 4th Ave. 718-260-8100, Daisy Farrugia myeyelevel.com Many parents today are facing educational challenges and looking for answers to help their children succeed academically. Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic advancement, Eye Level is the answer. Eye Level offers math and English programs for ages 3-14. Our instructors are able to tailor a curriculum by understanding the learning abilities of the students. With ongoing guidance of our instructors, each student will set attainable goals and learn at a comfortable pace. With each success, the student grows more self-confident, self-motivated, and self-directed in the quest for knowledge.
FasTracKids
Williamsburg, Sheepshead Bay, Bay Ridge/ Dyker Heights, Park Slope 347-983-2229 ftkny.com Summer camp is designed for children ages 4-10. Sessions last for one week at a time. We have full- or half-day sessions available. Fastpaced, fun, and fully interactive, these learning adventures will captivate and entertain as they deliver truly meaningful lessons. Nine enrichment topics are explored. Math and English classes, as well as computers, arts and crafts, puzzles, games, and yoga are offered. Call for details!
Joffrey Ballet School
434 Sixth Ave., 5th Floor, Manhattan 888-438-3808 joffreyballetschool.com The Joffrey Ballet School offers classes in Musical Theater, Hip-Hop, Jazz and Contemporary Ballet, and more. We specialize in dancers ranging in age from 2-18. We also offer superb adult evening dance fitness classes. The Musical Theater classes for kids are instructed by actual Broadway stars. Come and experience our more than 60 years of excellence in dance training. You will love the way we care for your child’s dance training. Come and grow with us.
Keylab
94 Luquer St. 718-576-3514 keylab.nyc info@keylab.nyc Keylab offers flexible scheduling and pricing for summer camps! Our camps are educational, inspiring, and fun! Booking a camp experience at Keylab is a great way to get your kids involved with music, film, podcasting, and more. Camps run Monday-Friday, 9:30am-3:30pm, for kids ages 6-12 of all
skill levels. Book a full five-day camp, a single day, or purchase three-, five- or, 10-day camp packages. The more days you book, the better your price! Visit keylab.nyc/camps, email info@keylab.nyc, or call 718-576-3514 for more information.
The Learnatory
St. Francis College, 180 Remsen St. 347-787-0435 thelearnatory.org dthompson@thelearnatory.org The Learnatory Summer Camp is the fast track to developing kids for 21st-century success! Academic growth, personal development, and professional preparation are all rolled into one fun-filled summer of excitement at The Learnatory! From math to music, reading to robotics, summertime becomes a memorable experience for kids ages 7-17 as they do new things, make new friends, and keep their minds sharp. Your child could kick-start a pathway to success with more than 30 innovative courses that are so much fun, they won’t even notice they’re learning!
Leif Ericson Day School’s Summer Creative Arts & Music Program (SCAMP)
1037 72nd St. 718-748-9023, Christine Hauge, principal ledsny.org Leif Ericson Day School’s Summer Creative Arts and Music Program begins its 21st year of fun this June through early August. Children in pre-K to seventh grade enjoy computers, art, music, movement, and drama. Professional, caring staff and junior counselors are enthusiastic and attentive. Limited group size allows for a more fulfilling experience. All activities are on-site. Two snacks provided daily. SCAMP hours are 9am-3pm with “Early Bird” care (8am) and “Late Bird” care (5pm) for additional fees.
Little Scholars Learning Center
52 Quentin Road 448 Neptune Ave. 104 West End Ave. 4123 Avenue U 718-210-3233 littlescholarsnyc.com littlescholarsnyc@gmail.com At Little Scholars Learning Center our goal is to provide the highest quality of early childhood education using theories from creative and high-scope educational models. Little Scholars is always innovating, that is why our ideas and curriculum will always stimulate all five areas of development (social and emotional, cognitive, physical and motor, self-help and adaptive, and communicative and language). Through books, daily activities, and each child’s unique way of learning, we can accomplish and establish a curriculum that is best for you and your child’s needs. “Children must be taught how to think not what to think,” Margaret Mead. continued on page 24 ››
CAMP MARKETPLACE
ELEMENTARY DAY CAMP
(Entering K - 4th grade)
swim (on site pool), gymnastics, sports, maker’s space, art, nature, circus arts,
HA’GEEMNASIA
(Entering K - 4th grade) Unique Israeli-style Hebrew immersion camp. Activities include Israeli culture, art, dance, cooking, swimming, sports, and
MOVIN’ ON TRAVEL CAMP
Bus Transportation Available
AWESOME CAMPS FOR AWESOME KIDS Congregation Beth Elohim welcomes campers from all backgrounds!
(Entering 4th – 9th grade) Independence in a safe and structured
Special events, program electives, three
LEARN MORE: CBEBK.ORG
CELEBRATING OUR 40TH SUMMER IN PARK SLOPE! For more information, please contact: Bobbie Finkelstein, Director of Youth Services
BrooklynParent 23
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Mill Basin Day Camp
5945 Strickland Ave. 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Summers are times to spend with friends, make memories, and share experiences that last a lifetime. MBDC is dedicated to providing exciting and fulfilling camp experiences for children through fun, recreational, and safe activities. Our modern, air-conditioned, and private facility offers a wide range of activities for children entering pre-K through ninth grade. There are five individual camps, each with unique and innovative programming. Bring the family for a personal tour of the facility and discussion of the camp program.
Music Together
Bay Ridge/Bensonhurst/Sheepshead Bay Midwood/Marine Park 718-499-2866 musictogetherbr.com Brooklyn Heights/Boerum Hill 718-855-0908 musictogetheratkiddiekorner.com South Park Slope/Kensington/Windsor Terrace/ Ditmas Park 718-369-0528 hootenannybrooklyn.com Music Together is a nationwide educational program founded on the belief that all children are musical, and that music is a perfect way for children to learn and grow. We sing, dance, and play instruments in a fun, informal, supportive atmosphere. Limited to 12 children with parent or caregiver. Classes meet once a week for 45 minutes. Morning, afternoon, evening, or weekend class times available. Newborn to age 5. Free demonstration classes offered. Sessions start in September, January, April, and July.
New York City Tae Kwon Do
7909 3rd Ave. 526 Court St. 718-625-5425 gotaekwondo.com nyctkd@aol.com We offer eight weeks of exciting, well-rounded training in taekwondo, soccer, basketball, softball, and bowling. We also offer weekly safety and leadership, and fun, educational field trips. Choose from one-five days a week and oneeight weeks. Camp hours are 8am-3pm, $70 per day (extra cost for extended hours).
The Park Slope Day Camp
Ronny Schindler, executive director 718-788-7732 parkslopedaycamp.com For 27 years, Park Slope Day Camp has been providing Brooklyn families with a safe, nurturing, and unique day camp experience. Located in Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Carroll Gardens, and Bay Ridge, we offer a wide variety of activities and options including
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traditional, circus, soccer, and travel camps. Flexible and accommodating schedules for parents; professional management; enthusiastic, caring, and well-trained staff; air-conditioned buses; transportation to and from camp in most Brooklyn locations; and accredited by the American Camp Association. Be part of the spirit that has kept us growing for 27 years!
RAINE AND RILEY’S Children’s Clothing Store
9002 3rd Ave. 347-497-3450 raineandrileys.com raineandrileys@yahoo.com RAINE AND RILEY’S offers Summer Session Yoga Classes. Pre-teen Yoga is offered Mondays from 5:30-6pm for children ages 9-13. After a busy weekend, pre-teens can stay Zen with friends in this laid-back yoga class for beginners; $20 per class ($5 per additional child). Yoga For Yogis is offered Wednesdays from 5:45-6:30pm for children ages 3-8. Where imagination and yoga meet, join us for playtime and stretch in this one-ofa-kind Yogi experience; $20 per class ($5 per additional child). For additional information, email us at raineandrileys@yahoo.com.
Science, Language & Arts International School
126 St. Felix St. 718–636–3836 slaschool.org/camp Outdoor adventures and summer fun—in French or Mandarin! Whether your child is a beginner or native speaker, SLA’s unique scaffolded immersion approach ensures that your child’s language skills will grow in a supportive and joyful learning environment. Mention NYMetroParents and receive $50 off your second week of camp. Register today at slaschool.org/camp. To learn about SLA’s innovative, project-based, language-immersive approach, join us for a spring tour. Limited seats remain for children in nursery– fifth grade for the 2018-19 year. Tour dates and tour registration: pws.inresonance.com/ school/slaschool/inquiry.php. Questions? Email info@slaschool.org.
Smart Start Early Learning Center
8411 Fort Hamilton Parkway 718-921-1868 smartstart@verizon.net Summer Fun at Smart Start is an extension of our preschool program with the addition of water play and fun outdoor activities. Enrollment options include our regular school day program (8:30am-3pm), our full-time program (7am-6:30pm), and a five-week, part-time (9am-12pm) summer program. Your child’s day will be filled with fun and learning. Activities include art, music, movement, outdoor playtime, and center time. Smart Start Early Childhood Center Inc. is licensed for children ages 2-5. Call 718-9211868 for further information or check us out on the web at smartstartecc.com.
Stepping Stones Nursery School
245 86th St., Bay Ridge 718-630-1000 Stepping Stones-The Next Step 9321 Ridge Blvd. 718-630-1001 steppingstones86.com steppingstones86@aol.com Stepping Stones believes in engaging every child in large and small muscle activities, sensory and discovery exploration, social interaction, and creative expression for ages 2-6. Join us for a fun summer camp where your child will be creating fun activities, traveling on local trips, going to the park, playing with water in our playground, themed lessons, and enrichment classes including yoga, science, and no-bake cooking. Stepping Stones is open from 7am-6:30pm from July 2-Aug. 24.
STREB SUMMER CAMP at SLAM
51 N. 1st St. 718-384-6491 streb.org Spend the summer creating and performing in your very own circus! Step right up and enter SLAM’s three-ring circus: Fly on the trapeze! Bounce on the trampoline! Walk the tightrope! Create action moves in the splash pool! Fly, fall, slam, slide, soar with POPACTION and your favorite action heroes! Choose one week or all! Each week builds upon the skills learned in the previous weeks. Camps are open level; no previous experience required. There will be a performance every Friday of Circus Camp (ages 6-13). Camp options for ages 3-5 available as well.
Urban Explorers Day Camp
38-32 Flatlands Ave. 718-951-9732 urbanexplorers.nyc admin@urbanexplorers.nyc Urban Explorers has more than 40 years of experience providing fun-filled, educationally sound programs geared toward a child’s learning and socialization. Each day provides new and exciting activities, each week new and exciting trips. Research shows that program diversity naturally enhances a child’s curiosity and innate ability to learn. This leads to our belief that the more children explore, the faster they discover themselves. If you live anywhere in Brooklyn, the Rockaways, or near the Brooklyn-Queens border, we will gladly provide free door-to-door transportation.
UrbanGlass
647 Fulton St. 718-625-3685 urbanglass.org/classes Experience the magic of glass with summer camps at UrbanGlass! Located in the heart of Brooklyn, we offer weekend Family Camps and weeklong Youth Camps in glassblowing, neon, bead making, and fusing. These workshops are designed to introduce students to this unique material and expand
continued on page 26 ››
CAMP MARKETPLACE
YMCA
Hey! Moms and Dads Look what we have for you
SUMMER CAMPS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
CLASSES
Check out our 45 minute online education classes, presented by leading experts.
Bonus: Check out library of hundreds of expert written article
NANNIES & BABYSITTERS
Looking for one? We have tens of referred Nannies and Babysitters
Bonus: Do you want to help your Nanny find her next family? This is the best resource in NYC.
JOBS
FOR MOMS
Let’s face it, Moms make great part time employees. Check out the jobs for companies looking specifically to hire a mom.
Bonus: If you are looking for an opportunity, you can post on mommybites.
EVENTS FOR YOUNG FAMILIES
Check our activities targeted just for you and your families.
Bonus: Local organizations can post their events on mommybites.com/newyork
ymcanyc.org/camp
NEW YORK CITY’S YMCA
Celebrating 25 Years!
April’s Dance-N-Feet Tap • Ballet • Jazz • Pointe • Gymnastics Majorette • Karate • Praise Dancing African • Caribbean • Private Lessons Hip-Hop • Competition Classes • Lyrical Classes for Ages 2 – Adult / Boys Classes Available!
6 WEEK SUMMER PROGRAM
Get on the
(East 46th Street Location) July 7th to August 11th
list for newest offerings mommybites.com/newyork Connecting moms and moms-to-be with parenting resources, education, and support since 2006
9409 Ave L.
9411 Ave L.
(bet. E94th & E95th St.) (bet. E94th & E95th St.)
718-272-1813
718-272-1813
4626 Flatlands Ave. (bet. Schenectady & E46th St.)
718-692-4809
** Sibling Discounts And Multiple Class Discounts **
When registering, bring this ad for a free pair of tights.
BrooklynParent 25
CAMP MARKETPLACE
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the breadth and depth of their art-making activities. Pair any two workshops for a multi-studio experience and get a discounted rate! We also offer financial aid through need-based scholarships. Visit urbanglass.org/classes/ scholarships and choose “Youth Scholarship” under scholarship type to apply.
BROOKLYN’S MUSIC EDUCATION CHOICE
FOR T ODAY’S MODERN FAMILY
Fun and exciting group piano, music composition & production, and performance/band classes for ages 5 to adult.
ENROLL TODAY!
94 LUQUER ST. BROOKLYN, NY 11231
718.576.3514 keyl ab.nyc DUTCH TOTAL SOCCER SUMMER SKILLS CAMP 6 weeks of Soccer Camps – July 2nd through August 10th • Indoor and outdoor turf available • Weekly sign up possible • Junior half day camps ages 5-7 • Full day camps ages 8-15 • Advanced camps ages 8-15 • Late stay and bus service options available Dutch Total Soccer (DTS) Summer Camps offer a great balance between instructional training & games in which players are required to use the skills they have learned. DTS Summer Camps are open to boys and girls ages 5-15. 3159 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11234 • 718-758-7500 NYdirector@dutchtotalsoccer.com | www.dts-ny.com | www.facebook.com/dtsnewyork
Summer Camp for Kids at UrbanGlass SUMMER CAMP DATES dates: June 9 - August 11 times: 10-3:00pm We Offer • weekend family camps for all ages • week-long youth camps for ages 9-18 in glassblowing, neon, beadmaking, fusing and more!
647 Fulton Street | Brooklyn, NY 11217 karina@urbanglass.org | 718-625-3685 x247 | urbanglass.org/classes 26
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zoos and Aquarium
1-800- 433-4149 The Bronx Zoo 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx 718-220-5132 Central Park Zoo 830 Fifth Ave., Manhattan 212-438-6583 Queens Zoo 53-51 111th St., Corona 718-271-7361 Prospect Park Zoo 450 Flatbush Ave. 718-399-7327 New York Aquarium 602 Surf Ave. 718-265-3457 wcs.org/education/programs Summer just got wild! Send your animal lover to summer camp at the Prospect Park Zoo and New York Aquarium! Campers will enjoy up-close animal experiences, Wildlife Theater performances, and age appropriate, hands-on STEM activities. Join us at the aquarium for keeper chats, behind the scenes experiences, and exclusive early morning access to the new Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit! Use promo code NYMETRO to receive an exclusive 10-percent discount off your purchase of summer camp! For more information, please visit our website at wcs.org/parks/camps, call 800-433-4149, or email edu@wcs.org.
YMCA Summer Camps
ymcanyc.org/camp bit.ly/2FgUwLs rho@ymcanyc.org At YMCA Summer Camps, children learn leadership skills and develop self-confidence in a safe, accepting, and stimulating environment. They also build robots, go on field trips, shoot hoops, learn to swim, make new friends, and laugh all summer long! Our creative, educational camp programming—structured around the Y’s values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—helps campers reach their fullest potential, physically, mentally, and emotionally. With six locations in Manhattan and the Bronx, find the perfect camp for your child! Visit us at ymcanyc.org/camp to learn more today!
Young People’s Day Camp of Brooklyn
718-951-9732 800-DAY-CAMP (329-2267) ypdc.com Since 1972, our family-run camp has provided safe, fun summers for thousands of youngsters, ages 4-15. YPDC is accredited by the ACA and the New York Camp Directors Association, and is supervised by licensed teachers and administrators. Our philosophy is to “grow” children intellectually, physically, and spiritually in a fun environment. Activities include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, music, dance, natural science, academics, educational and recreational field trips, and special events. Door-to-door transportation is available at no additional charge. Two- to eight-week sessions are available. Ask about special discounts.
BrooklynParent
SALES OPENING MAGAZINES • WEBSITES SOCIAL MEDIA • EMAIL send resumé to dmgsales@davlermedia.com
CAMP MARKETPLACE
WHERE EXPLORATION BEGINS!
www.campmaritime.com
718.332. 4859
Our childcare programs consist of a comprehensive educational curriculum that provides an optimal environment for every child to thrive, succeed and excel. Programs are for ages 6 months through 5 years. We provide Math, Literacy, Art & Enrichment Programs.
NYC’S FIRST AND ONLY ALL WATER
ADVENTURE CAMP • SAILING • BOATING • WINDSURFING • KITE BOARDING
• STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING
• SURFING
• Math, Literacy, Art & Enrichment Programs
• KAYAKING • SCUBA DIVING
• SNORKELING
• For Ages 3 Months Through 5 Years
• FISHING
• Full & Half Day Childcare Services • Accepting Childcare Vouchers • Sign up or Schedule A Tour • Spaces Limited
JUNE 25 AUGUST 31 CHILDREN AGES 7-14
REGISTER T O D AY !
3000 Emmons Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235
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SMART START
Early Childhood Center, Inc. 8411 Fort Hamilton Pkwy. Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-921-1868 Fax-718-921-6713
REGISTER NOW! For Fall & Camp 2018 Full/Part Time Sessions available for: 2 year old class & 3 year old class
FREE Full Day D.O.E. Pre-K For All! Our curriculum helps children understand and develop skills which will enable them to succeed and make sense of the world through: Dramatic Play, Free Play, Outdoor Play, Arts, Crafts, Music, and Movement while incorporating: Literacy, Math, Science, and Social Studies Child Centered, Certified Teachers, Extended Hours, Year Round Care
BrooklynParent 27
things to do
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Summertime where-to guide
Shine
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Compiled by Samantha Neudorf
It’s finally summer, which means it’s time to do all of your favorite outdoor activities! Nothing screams summer quite like that first drive to the beach to sit in the sand and dip your toes in the ocean. Summer also means trips to amusement parks or carousels (if your child is not ready to take on the big roller coasters). Finally, June marks the beginning of strawberry season, with festivals and fairs happening in and around the New York City area. Grab your hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, and get out there to enjoy the warm weather because school’s out for summer!
CAROUSELS
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Prospect Park Carousel 95 Prospect Park W., Children’s Corner (near the Willink entrance at Flatbush Avenue and Empire Boulevard), Prospect Heights 718-965-8951; prospectpark.org/visit-the-park/places-to-go/carousel Hours: Thursday-Sunday and holidays, 12-5pm Price: $2 per ride; $9 for five rides; free for children younger than 12 on Thursdays in August Located next to Lefferts Historic House and the Prospect Park Zoo, this 100-year-old carousel was hand-carved by designer Charles Carmel and features 53 horses as well as a lion, a giraffe, a deer, and two dragon-pulled chariots. It is wheelchair accessible.
Manhattan Beach Oriental Boulevard, between Ocean Avenue and Mackenzie Street, Brooklyn 718-646-5913; 212-639-9675 nycgovparks.org/parks/manhattanbeachpark Hours: daily, 10am-6pm; lifeguards on duty May 27 to Labor Day, 10am-6pm. Cost: Beach: FREE. Parking: $6 weekdays, $20 weekends and holidays. Attractions: Boardwalk, two playgrounds, large baseball diamond, tennis, basketball, and handball courts Find more>> nymetroparents.com/beaches
Jim McDonnell
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BEACHES
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Find more>> nymetroparents.com/carousels
Located alongside the famous Coney Island Boardwalk, Luna Park offers mild to extreme thrill rides.
AMUSEMENT PARKS
Alstede Farms Strawberry Harvest Festival 1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester, NJ 908-258-6245; alstedefarms.com/strawberry-harvest-festival Hours: June 2-24, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm Head out to the farm country and enjoy strawberries at their finest. There will be lots of strawberry-themed foods, such as ice cream, slushies, shakes, and cakes to try and take home. Enjoy a hayride down to the strawberry patch. Kids can have a blast on a pony ride or a tractor train. See the farm animals and the corn kingdom too! There’s lots of fun to be had and sweet strawberries to eat.
Luna Park at Coney Island 1000 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn 718-373-5862; lunaparknyc.com Hours: May 25-Sept. 3: daily; hours vary. Sept. 8-Oct. 28: weekends. Check online for full details. Pricing: $1 per credit; 48 credits: $40; 75 credits: $60; and 140 credits: $100; $42 and up for Any Day Luna Pass, which includes unlimited rides for any day of the week, and 1 ride entitlement on Go Karts and Slingshot; $29 and up for Fixed Date Luna Pass. Check online for additional deals. Mild to extreme thrill rides, games, and dining. New attraction this year: Astro Tower is a 137-foot tall tower that drops and bounces you up and down with sunning views from the top of the ride.
Find more>> nymetroparents.com/strawberries
Find more>> nymetroparents.com/amusementparks
STRAWBERRY FESTIVALS
Ideas When You Need Them:
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Turn the page for details on Figment Festival (No. 7 on our list).
JUNE
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nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: KAREN LO bkcal@davlermedia.com
CALENDAR 30
Editor’s Hot Tickets
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We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!
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Mini Musicians, Crafty Kids
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Movers & Shakers, Once Upon a Time
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Fun Fairs & Festivals, The Great Outdoors
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Smarty Pants, Show Time!
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EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS
Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 10 events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!
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Great Fish Count: 1 Fish, 2 Fish, I Fish, You Fish FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 2, 9-11am WHERE: Kaiser Park, 2529 Neptune Ave., Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: Now in its third year, this hands-on event is a celebration of the marine life in the waters surrounding our five boroughs. Top marine biologists and scientists will work with you and your kids to discover and count the many species of fish and marine creatures right here in our own city waterways. All equipment will be provided, including waders. WHY WE LOVE IT: Put your waterproof clothes to good use during this fun and scientific way to learn more about the diverse marine life living right here in New York’s waters! WANT TO GO? worldsciencefestival.com.
Graphic Novel Character Building Workshop with Justin Hansen
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WHEN: Saturday, June 2, 3-4pm WHERE: Stories Bookshop + Storytelling Lab, 458 Bergen St., Park Slope AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Join graphic novel author and illustrator Justin LaRocca Hansen to dive into the art of telling stories through pictures. Children will design characters and put those characters into their own comic book page. There will be live drawing, comic making, book signing, and lots of talk about comics. WHY WE LOVE IT: Is your child the next Stan Lee? Find out during this introduction to comic book illustration and design. WANT TO GO? $30. 718-369-1167. storiesbk.com.
Carnival and Science Spectacular
WHEN: Saturday, June 2, 1-5pm WHERE: Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: The 2018 Con Edison Carnival & Science Spectacular is an annual fundraising festival that takes place on the meadow in front of the museum and includes rides carnival games, STEAM activity booths, robotics demonstrations, and science shows.
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June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: Tickets include access to the museum, a bounce house, robots, a solar car, lasers, a rock climbing wall, and more. WANT TO GO? $16; $13 in advance. 718-273-2060. sichildrensmuseum.org.
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Historic New York: Coney Island FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 3, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Coney Island Boardwalk, Boardwalk and West 10th Street, Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: Between about 1880 and World War II, Coney Island was the largest amusement area in the United States, attracting several million visitors per year. Join the Urban Park Rangers for a walking tour of this famous amusement park. WHY WE LOVE IT: While you’re here, check out the newly renovated Aquatheater at the New York Aquarium. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.
Free Indoor Concert FREE
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WHEN: Sunday, June 17, 3pm WHERE: Music Hall at Snug Harbor Cultural Center, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a free concert featuring the Very Young Composers of the New York Philharmonic, an afternoon program that introduces students in third-fifth grade to the instruments that make up a full orchestra. WHY WE LOVE IT: In addition to works by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, this performance will also feature original compositions by students. WANT TO GO? 718-273-2060. nyphil.org.
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Prospect Park Soiree
WHEN: Saturday, June 23, 5-11pm WHERE: The Peninsula, Prospect Park, Well House Drive, Windsor Terrace AGES: All WHAT: Join the Prospect Park Alliance at the most celebrated party of
the year. Show off your creativity with a show-stopping topper—a fabulous hat or headpiece of your choosing—as well as table décor that celebrates the beautiful surroundings, and raise your glass in a toast to Brooklyn’s Backyard. WHY WE LOVE IT: If you didn’t quite make it to the Met Gala, here’s your chance to dress up and dance all night for a great cause! WANT TO GO? $45. 718-965-8951. prospectpark.org.
Figment Festival FREE
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WHEN: June 23-24, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 AGES: All WHAT: Figment is a free annual participatory arts event that celebrates creativity by challenging artists and participants to find new ways to create, share, and dream. For one weekend each summer, it transforms Governors Island into a large-scale collaborative artwork— and then it’s gone. WHY WE LOVE IT: Artistic creativity has no age limit! Anyone is welcome to contribute to this massive, but fleeting, art festival. WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. newyork.figmentproject.org.
Breakfast with the Beasts
WHEN: Saturday, June 30, 9:30-11am WHERE: Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Start your day at the zoo with breakfast with the animals. After, listen to an animal presentation, go on a tour of the zoo commissary, and participate in a special animal feeding. WHY WE LOVE IT: Your family will love this safari-esque chance to get a closer look at the “local” wildlife. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children ages 3-15; free for children younger than 2. 718-442-3101. statenislandzoo.org.
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Swale Comes to Brooklyn Army Terminal FREE
WHEN: Through July 1: Saturday-Sunday, 12-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Army Terminal, 140 58th St., Sunset Park AGES: All WHAT: Swale, the Floating Food Forest created by artist Mary Mattingly, will bring educational programming to the local Brooklyn community with 5,000 square feet of edible perennial garden and opportunities for New Yorkers to get involved in building ecological resilience through promoting food as a public commons. WHY WE LOVE IT: Teach your young ones about the value of community, sustainability, and eating well. You can also forage for free! WANT TO GO? 212-691-2800. swaleny.org.
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ColorLab
WHEN: Year-round: Thursday, 2-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: ColorLab is BCM’s new family art studio inspired by contemporary African-American, Afro-Caribbean, and African artists, with rotating programs that will feature the work and material inspirations of contemporary artists. Learn about Afrofuturism through a toolbox containing books, materials, and prompts to guide creating. WHY WE LOVE IT: Inspired by modern African and African-American artwork, children will be given the tools and materials to create fascinating artwork of their own. WANT TO GO? $11. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.
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WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE
Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. Classic Wooden Car Workshop FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 2, 9am-12pm WHERE: Home Depot Gowanus, 550 Hamilton Ave., Gowanus AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Share the nostalgic pastime of car modeling with your child in this classic car hands-on workshop. Build a vintage General Motors-style wooden car and customize it with paint and stickers. WANT TO GO? 718-832-8553. homedepot.com.
Farmhouse Family Day FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 16, 11am-3pm WHERE: The Wyckoff House Museum, 5816 Clarendon Road, Canarsie AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Bring the family to explore New York City’s oldest house. Seasonal activities inside the historic house and around the gardens include scavenger hunts, artifact investigation, gardening, self-guided exploration, and hands-on activities. WANT TO GO? 718-629-5400. wyckoffmuseum.org.
Dance, Drum & Imagination Summer Camp Info Session FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 17, 12:30-1:30pm WHERE: RestorationART, 1368 Fulton St., Bedford-Stuyvesant AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join this free summer camp info session to learn more about the program, meet the teaching artists, and get a taste of the camp experience. The two camp themes are infused with song, story, percussion, and a variety of crafts. WANT TO GO? 718-935-9700. cumbedance.org.
McKinley Family Day FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 23, 12-3pm WHERE: McKinley Park, 7th Avenue and 75th Street, Dyker Heights AGES: All WHAT: Bring the whole family for an afternoon of games, arts and crafts, face painting, music, popcorn, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-748-5200. nycgovparks.org.
Immigrants: The Roots of Innovation FREE
WHEN: Through June 30: Saturdays, 12-3pm WHERE: Conference House, Hylan Boulevard and Satterlee Street, Staten Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This exhibit highlights narratives of important pioneers in the fields of maritime navigation and communication so people today can understand how our ancestors started making the world “smaller” slowly but surely over centuries by learning how to travel vast oceans. WANT TO GO? 718-869-6327. conferencehouse.org. ›› BrooklynParent 31
CRAFTY KIDS Prize Winning Poppas
MINI
MUSICIANS Sing-Along with Ari the Singalong Guy
WHEN: Through June 29: Fridays, 11am WHERE: The Knitting Factory, 361 Metropolitan Ave., Williamsburg AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: An interactive sing-along filled with classic and original songs. WANT TO GO? $10 per family. 347-529-6696. aribrand.com.
Shabbat Songs and Stories FREE
WHEN: Through June 29: Fridays, 9:30-10:15am WHERE: Kings Bay Y at Fort Greene & Clinton Hill, 309 Grand Ave., Suite 1, Clinton Hill AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Neighborhood families are encouraged to join with students from the Early Childhood Programs for music, dancing, stories, and snacks. WANT TO GO? 718-872-9445. fortgreeneclintonhilly.org.
The Gathering of Hands FREE
WHEN: June 23-29, Saturday and Monday-Friday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 AGES: All WHAT: A three-part series that celebrates drumming, unity, and community as they relate to the African diaspora. WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.
WHEN: Sunday, June 10, 1-4pm WHERE: Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Create a handmade trophy to give to Dad for being great. WANT TO GO? $8. 718-273-2060. sichildrensmuseum.org.
Art Adventures!
WHEN: Through June 20: Wednesdays, 11:15am-12:15pm WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Each week children and caregivers explore art in the Spark studio, experiment with materials, discover hidden objects from the BCM collection on scavenger hunt challenges, and create masterworks. WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.
June 2018 Drop-In Play
WHEN: June 1-30, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Activities invite young artists to build fine motor skills, explore artmaking materials, and learn how to make new friends in a communal play space. WANT TO GO? $15. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.
Creativity Lab
WHEN: Through Aug. 31: Sundays, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: Take inspiration from our galleries and get messy, experiment with materials, and learn artistic techniques with a new project each month. WANT TO GO? $16; free for children younger than 19. 718-638-5000. brooklynmuseum.org.
Children’s Museum of the Arts Free Island Outpost FREE
WHEN: Through July 13: Fridays, 10-11am WHERE: Crispus Attucks Playground, 1030 Fulton St., Clinton Hill AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Kids can participate in this interactive, educational, and fun series. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.
WHEN: Through Oct. 31: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 AGES: All WHAT: Visit the Children’s Museum of the Art’s Free Art Island Outpost for hands-on art making workshops and art-viewing experiences. Young artists will be inspired and challenged to explore big projects utilizing found objects and traditional mediums. WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.
Live at the Archway FREE
Totally Tots
Lavender Blues Music & Movement
Transit Tots
FAB Friday Kids’ Concerts FREE
WHEN: June 14-Sept. 20, Thursdays, 6-8pm WHERE: Archway Under the Manhattan Bridge, Water Street between Adams Street and Anchorage Place, Dumbo AGES: All WHAT: Dumbo’s signature series, featuring dynamic musical performances, a pop-up gallery, and interactive art experience. WANT TO GO? 718-237-8700. dumbo.is. WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Thursdays, 10:45-11:45am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Kids develop an understanding of rhythm and music, build awareness of their body, and develop social and coordination skills. WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark. 32
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-4:30pm; Thursday, 10am-5:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This pint-sized paradise features nine different sensory play areas including water, sand, music, dress up, and blocks. WANT TO GO? $11. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org. WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Thursdays, 10:15-11am WHERE: New York Transit Museum, 99 Schermerhorn St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Young train enthusiasts explore themes like animals underground, the people and buildings of NYC, and, of course, the city’s subways and buses. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 2-17. 718-694-1600. nytransitmuseum.org.
MOVERS & SHAKERS ONCE UPON A TIME Basic Canoeing FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 9, 11am-2pm WHERE: Boathouse at Prospect Park Audubon Center, Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue, Flatbush AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Trained Urban Park Rangers will lead you on canoe adventures. WANT TO GO? 718-287-3400. prospectpark.org.
Block Party Exhibit
Summer Reading Kickoff-Libraries Rock! FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 9, 10am-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library, Ulmer Park Library, 2602 Bath Ave., Gravesend AGES: All WHAT: Get cool stuff just for signing up for summer reading, and enjoy traditional folk dancing by the Calpulli Youth Dance Company. WANT TO GO? 718-265-3443. bklynlibrary.org.
Storytime and Activities Featuring ‘Incredibles 2: Sweet Dreams, Jack-Jack’ FREE
WHEN: Through June 10: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Block Party brings together the elements of the iconic Brooklyn block party all under one roof, including a series of dimensional stoops set against a backdrop of artistic facades of residential buildings and different “street” and green spaces to play games, meet friends, relax, and have fun. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1; pay as you wish on Thursdays, 2-6pm. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.
WHEN: Saturday, June 9, 11am WHERE: Barnes & Noble, 106 Court St., Downtown Brooklyn AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The Incredibles are back navigating the heroics of everyday life when a new villain hatches a brilliant and dangerous plot that only the Incredibles can overcome together. Activities to follow. WANT TO GO? 718-246-4996. bn.com.
Brooklyn Cyclones Opening Night
Author Storytime: ‘Pet Dad’ with Elanna Allen FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 16, 6:30pm WHERE: MCU Park, 1904 Surf Avenue, Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: The Brooklyn Cyclones play the Staten Island Yankees. WANT TO GO? $12-$17. 718-372-5596. brooklyncyclones.com.
The Little People Father’s Day Party
WHEN: Sunday, June 10, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Stories Bookshop + Storytelling Lab, 458 Bergen St., Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: Plum wants the perfect pet, but instead realizes she has the perfect dad in this charming and hilarious picture book that’s great for Father’s Day. WANT TO GO? 718-369-1167. storiesbk.com.
WHEN: Sunday, June 17, 1-4pm WHERE: The PSU Clubhouse/Siloam Presbyterian Church, 260 Jefferson Ave., Bedford-Stuyvesant AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Celebrate fathers, grandfathers, and father figures in our lives at The Little People Party’s new summer home. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 additional siblings. 646-707-4371. thelittlepeople.party.
Tiny Tot Theater
Mini Monkeys Learn and Play Group FREE
Drop-in Art, Poems, and Stories
WHEN: Through June 25: Wednesdays, 9-11:30am WHERE: Monkey Do! Yoga, 279 3rd Ave., Gowanus AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Storybooks, integrated movement and mindfulness, language development, art, and music are all part of the weekly enrichment activities offered in Mini Monkeys Learn and Play groups. WANT TO GO? 347-987-3797. monkeydoyoga.com.
Double Dutch FREE
WHEN: Through Aug. 15: Wednesdays, 7-9pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 2, Furman and Clark streets, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Open Ropes is free and open to everyone of any age, skill, and jump style. Instructors are on-hand to provide basic Double Dutch instruction. WANT TO GO? 718-802-0603. brooklynbridgepark.org.
Kayaking FREE
WHEN: Through Sept. 30: Thursday, 5:30-6:45pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-2pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse at Pier 2, Furman and Clark streets, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Kayak with the Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse at the Pier 2 floating dock! Children younger than 18 must have an adult guardian present. All levels are welcome and no experience is necessary. WANT TO GO? 718-802-0603. brooklynbridgepark.org.
WHEN: Through June 21: Thursdays, 12-1pm WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Along with a storyteller/puppeteer from Spellbound Theatre, explore creative play, movement, and puppet making. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $36. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark. WHEN: Through June 25: Mondays, 4pm WHERE: Stories Bookshop + Storytelling Lab, 458 Bergen St., Park Slope AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids read a book and make a craft. Story and project change weekly. WANT TO GO? $15. 718-369-1167. storiesbk.com.
Babies and Books FREE
WHEN: June 1-July 31, Thursdays, 10-10:30am WHERE: Greenpoint YMCA, 99 Meserole Ave., Greenpoint AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Hear delightful stories, learn fun songs and rhymes, play with toys, and meet other families and caregivers in your neighborhood. WANT TO GO? 718-389-3700. ymcanyc.org/greenpoint.
Saturday Author Story Time FREE
WHEN: Year-round: Saturdays, 11:30am and 1:30pm WHERE: Greenlight Bookstore, 686 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Authors and illustrators of picture books often visit on Saturdays to read from their new books, and neighborhood performers. WANT TO GO? 718-246-0200. greenlightbookstore.com.
Drag Queen Story Hour
WHEN: Saturday, June 9, 11am-12pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: This interactive art and storytime celebrates the uniqueness of all. WANT TO GO? $11. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org. ›› BrooklynParent 33
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Stargazing in Brooklyn Bridge Park FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 2, 7-11pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 1, Old Fulton Street, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy multiple telescopes for stargazing; an LED-lit balloon chain installation; and world-renowned scientists and chefs discussing the vagaries of cooking, eating, and staying alive in outer space. WANT TO GO? 718-683-5600. brooklynbridgepark.org/events.
FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Red Hook Fest FREE
WHEN: June 1-2, Friday, 5:30-8:30pm; Saturday, 2-7pm WHERE: Erie Basin Park at IKEA, 1 Beard St., Red Hook AGES: All WHAT: The annual fest returns with free live music and dance performances. WANT TO GO? 718-643-6790. redhookfest.com.
Go Green! Brooklyn Festival FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 2, 12-5pm WHERE: McCarren Park, 900 Lorimer St., Williamsburg AGES: All WHAT: This event features green exhibitors, a Greencycle Swap, and more. WANT TO GO? 347-987-2765. gogreenbk.nyc.
P.S. 132’s 14th Annual Kite Festival
WHEN: Sunday, June 3, 12-5pm WHERE: East River State Park, 90 Kent Ave., Williamsburg AGES: All WHAT: The festival features biodegradable kites, kite decorating, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-599-7301. ps132ny.com.
6th Annual Spring Carnival FREE
Discovery Day FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 3, 11am WHERE: Freshkills Park, 350 Wild Ave., Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Discovery Day is a special opportunity to spend a summer afternoon exploring the future park while the site is closed to the public. WANT TO GO? 212-602-5374. freshkillspark.org.
Family Discovery Weekends
WHEN: Through June 3: Saturdays, 10am-12pm; Sundays, 1-3pm WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 990 Washington Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Hands-on stations throughout the meadow, woodland, and marsh habitats, and in the vegetable garden encourage families to explore nature. WANT TO GO? $15; $8 students and seniors; free for children younger than 12. 718-623-7200. bbg.org.
Wild Waterfront
WHEN: Through June 20: Wednesdays, 10-11am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Explore Brooklyn’s waterfront and learn about local plants and animals. WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.
The Means of a Ready Escape
WHEN: Sunday, June 3, 11am-5pm WHERE: P.S. 38, 450 Pacific St., Boerum Hill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Expect a fun day of food, rides, and activities. WANT TO GO? 718-330-9305. pacificschool.org.
WHEN: Through July 13: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Historical Society, 128 Pierrepont St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This exhibit highlights 150 years of social history in Brooklyn. WANT TO GO? $10; free for children younger than 12. 718-222-4111. brooklynhistory.org.
Juneteenth Family Fun Day FREE
Saturday Volunteer Corps FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 16, 11am-6pm WHERE: Gershwin Park, Vermont Street between Linden Boulevard and Stanley Avenue, East New York AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the cultural diversity that makes NYC one-of-a-kind. WANT TO GO? 929-285-1089. juneteenthny.com.
The 36th Annual Mermaid Parade FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 16, 1pm WHERE: Coney Island USA, 1208 Surf Ave., Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: This year’s Queen Mermaid and King Neptune are Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman. WANT TO GO? 718-594-7895. coneyisland.com.
Make Music New York FREE
WHEN: Thursday, June 21, see website for times WHERE: Various venues citywide, see website for addresses, New York AGES: All WHAT: Features more than 1,000 concerts, music lessons, and more in public. WANT TO GO? 917-779-9709. makemusicny.org.
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WHEN: Through Sept. 30: Saturdays, 10am-2pm WHERE: Prospect Park, Parkside Avenue between Flatbush and Ocean avenues, Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: Volunteers will take on a different section of the park and engage in various tasks such as tree care and litter patrol. Registration requred. WANT TO GO? 718-965-8951. prospectpark.org.
Weekday Nature Exploration FREE
WHEN: Through Sept. 30: Thursday-Friday, 12-4pm WHERE: Audubon Center at the Boathouse, Prospect Park near the Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance, Prospect Lefferts Gardens AGES: All WHAT: Join Prospect Park Alliance for free nature education programs. WANT TO GO? 718-421-2021. nycgovparks.org.
Coastal Cleanup FREE
WHEN: Through Oct. 3: See website for dates, 10am-12pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 1, Old Fulton Street, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Volunteers 16 and younger must be accompanied by a guardian. WANT TO GO? 718-683-5600. brooklynbridgepark.org.
SMARTY PANTS
SHOW TIME!
Jungle Discovery
BTB Presents ‘James and the Giant Peach Jr.’
WHEN: Through June 10: Sunday-Thursday, 12-5pm WHERE: Jewish Children’s Museum, 792 Eastern Parkway, Crown Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children will learn lessons from the animals that live in the jungle. WANT TO GO? $13; $10 seniors. 718-467-0600. jcm.museum.
In Search of Earth’s Secrets: A Pop-Up Science Encounter
WHEN: June 1-17, Thursday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, 99 Plymouth, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Explore the stories of Earth’s past through the research of the JOIDES Resolution vessel. WANT TO GO? 718-222-9939. brooklynbridgepark.org.
French for Little Ones
WHEN: Through June 22: Fridays, 10:45-11:45am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Through song, theatrical play, and movement, children and caregivers become familiar with French. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.
Spanish at Spark with Espáñate!
WHEN: Through June 22: Fridays, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children will build Spanish speaking skills as well as fine motor, social, and artistic skills through games and music. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.
Drop-in Class: Puppets, Stories and Songs in French
WHEN: Through June 23: 12:30pm WHERE: The Language and Laughter Studio, 137 Nevins St., Boerum Hill AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: This interactive class is designed to nurture and stimulate the creativity and imagination of young children in a foreign language. WANT TO GO? $35. 718-596-2233. thelanguageandlaughterstudio.com.
Train Operators Workshop
WHEN: Through June 30: Saturday-Sunday, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: New York Transit Museum, 99 Schermerhorn St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Drop by the computer lab to take control of a NYC subway car and operate it over virtual miles of track in an incredibly realistic game. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 seniors and children ages 2-17. 718-694-1792. nytransitmuseum.org.
Brooklyn Block Lab and Studio
WHEN: Through June 30: Thursday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Visitors of all ages develop their engineering skills as they engage in open block play. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.
WHEN: June 1-2, Friday, 6:30pm; Saturday, 1:30pm WHERE: New Dorp Moravian Church Theatre, 2205 Richmond Road, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: A brand-new take on this “masterpeach” of a tale. WANT TO GO? $12. 718-351-0090. newdorpmoravian.org.
Little Laffs Children’s Variety Show
WHEN: Sundays, June 3, 11am WHERE: Jalopy Theatre, 315 Columbia St., Carroll Gardens AGES: 3-8 WHAT: A variety show for kids that mixes juggling, balloon art, and more. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children; $25 per family. 718-395-3214. littlelaffsny.com.
NYC Parks Retro Drive-In Cinema: ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 3, 8:20-11:20pm WHERE: Manhattan Beach Parking Lot, Oriental Avenue and Hastings Street, Manhattan Beach AGES: All WHAT: Based on the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, this 1971 comedy-drama centers on Tevye, the father of five daughters, and his attempts to maintain his Jewish traditions. WANT TO GO? 347-788-8669. nycgovparks.org.
Movies Under the Stars: ‘Black Panther’ FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 16, 8-10:30pm WHERE: Bloomingdale Park, Ramona and Lenevar avenues, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: A superhero known as Black Panther defends Wakanda, a technologically advanced country in Africa that has hidden itself away from the rest of the world. WANT TO GO? 718-217-4685. nycgovparks.org.
‘The Jungle Book’
WHEN: Through Aug. 19: Saturday-Sunday, 12:30pm and 2:30pm WHERE: Puppetworks, 338 6th Ave., Park Slope AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Enjoy an artful retelling of The Jungle Book. WANT TO GO? $11; $10 children. 718-965-3391. puppetworks.org.
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WHEN: Saturdays, June 2, 16, and 30, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: The tour brings you through an 83-acre site and reveals the history of this 19th-century campus alongside tales of strange occurrences. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-273-2060. snug-harbor.org.
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BrooklynParent 35
things to do
outbound
Family Fun a Ride Away Courtesy Cradle of Aviation Museum
Courtesy The WaterFront Center
In Nassau County, NY…
A Grumman F-11A Tiger Blue Angel on display at the Cradle of Aviation museum.
The Cradle of Aviation Museum
Sailing classes are available for children in fourth grade and older.
The WaterFront Center
There’s something for everyone at the WaterFront Center, which offers a variety of programs and activities for people of all ages and abilities. Take a tour of the harbor, go on a sunset cruise, learn about Oyster Bay marine life, or even go for brunch on the bay. The WaterFront Center is a perfect way to get your family on the water and learning about what lives in it. Visit It: 1 W. End Ave., Oyster Bay; 516-922-SAIL (7245); thewaterfrontcenter.org
This museum has so much to offer you have to see it for yourself. Explore more than 150,000 square feet featuring 75 air and spacecraft from a hot air balloon to an Apollo Lunar Module. The eight exhibit galleries on display teach visitors all about aviation, about Long Island’s role in aviation, and more. Listen to aerospace stories told by volunteer docents, climb into half a dozen cockpits, and explore more than 30 hands-on exhibits. Visit It: Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City; 516-572-4111; cradleofaviation.org
Courtesy Fantasy Fliers
Courtesy Field Station Dinosaurs
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The Field Station: Dinosaurs exhibits are realistic-looking and life-sized.
Fantasy Fliers has been flying over the Lower Hudson Valley for more than 30 years.
Field Station: Dinosaurs
Fantasy Balloon Flights
This prehistoric attraction combines the work of creative artists with innovative science to create an educational and exciting experience for the whole family. The exhibit has more than 30 life-sized, robotic dinosaurs made by the collaborative efforts of roboticists and artists. Children can view the awesome display in Overpeck Park surrounded by natural woods, as well as participate in workshops and activities to learn all about dinosaurs. Visit It: Overpeck County Park, Leonia, NJ; 855-999-9010; fieldstationdinosaurs.com 36
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
Really get away from the hustle and bustle with your family on an affordable hot air balloon ride with Fantasy Balloon Flight. The full-service hot air balloon company has been flying over the Lower Hudson Valley area since 1984. Ken and Lana Smith, the business owners, are Federal Aviation Administration-certified licensed commercial pilots with more than 65 years of combined flight experience. Rides are offered May-November. Visit It: Randall Airport, Airport Road, Middletown; 845-856-7103; fantasyfliers.com
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BrooklynParent 37
family life finances
Vacationing on a Budget
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Family trips can be relaxing, but they can put unwanted stress on your wallet. By Melissa Wickes
V
acations are something we look forward to the whole year. They provide a rare chance to wind down, go on fun adventures, and spend quality time with the ones we love. Unfortunately, vacation expenses add up, and planning a trip in the most cost-effective way can be overwhelming. In fact, New York University’s 2017 Family Travel survey revealed that 30 percent of the middle-income families and 25 percent of the high-range income families who participated found affordability to be their main challenge when planning a trip. If both groups of respondents found affordability to be a challenge, what does this mean? Low cost is not necessarily the ultimate goal; the expected “bang for your buck” is. Whether that translates into using only credit card points for a flight with a ton of legroom or finding a decently priced hotel room with a great ocean view, planning an affordable family vacation is a daunting task. So how do we maximize our families’ fun without dipping into our savings? Read on for insider advice from leading travel experts.
More Bang for Your Buck
There are many travel-planning websites, apps, and services. In fact, the sheer number can make the process harder to navigate than airport security. Lyla Gleeson, an NYC mom and founder of GlobetrottingMommy.com, has whittled down those sites and apps into an easy-to-navigate A-list: TripAdvisor: By comparing the prices of more than 200 websites, this site helps families book the best hotels, airlines, attractions, and restaurants for the lowest cost. TripAdvisor also hosts an online travel community, providing a place to read reviews and ask questions about your upcoming trip. 38
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
“TripAdvisor is my favorite website for planning a vacation in terms of activities and lodging,” Gleeson says. “I love reading hotel reviews to gain the inside scoop on rooms to request and rooms to avoid.” Travelzoo: This site recommends deals that pass Travelzoo’s high quality standards from the best companies. The deals listed are not based on what the travel companies pay Travelzoo; they’re featured because Travelzoo considers them to be genuinely good travel or entertainment deals. Groupon: The deals offered on Groupon are available in 15 countries and more than 500 markets globally, including savings on activities, attractions, and dining. Users can buy deals on the site or the app. When you’re visiting a new city, the best thing to do beforehand is check Groupon for discounts on amusement parks and other family-friendly local activities, according to Gleeson. Hopper: If you want to know the best time to buy a flight, this mobile app will clue you in. You can even “follow” a flight, enabling notifications when the price changes. “I always use the Hopper app to track prices and alert me when to buy,” Gleeson says. HotelTonight: This mobile app makes it easy to book last-minute hotel rooms at amazing rates for tonight, tomorrow, and next week. The unsold rooms in a hotel go onto the app, which can score you some heavy discounts, Gleeson says. If you’re not looking to risk it with a last-minute deal, Gleeson recommends booking your travel plans at least three to six months in advance for vacations during a school break or holiday week.
“If you’re planning a big holiday trip or family reunion, a year or two in advance is the norm for popular hotels and cruises, especially for Christmas,” Gleeson says. “Always be flexible when booking air and hotels because sometimes moving a trip by a day or two can save hundreds of dollars. It isn’t always doable, but you will get the best deals when you travel mid-week.” You can also score various deals through corporate employee discounts. Ask the human resources contact in your office if your company is partnered with any corporate discount websites such as Plum Benefits for deals on shows, theme parks, hotel stays, and more. There are also lesser-known discounts that you may not have considered, and they’re easy to claim. Birthday, senior citizen, teacher, military, and kids eat or stay free discounts are a no-brainer! Costco and AAA sometimes offer special travel savings to their members as well. Have a museum junkie in the family? Ask your local library if members can receive any free museum offerings, and do a quick search online to see if any museums at your destination offer pay-what-you-wish or free-admission days. For even more savings, cash-back sites like Ebates.com will pay you a percentage of what you spend on certain other sites. Some of the above resources, such as Groupon, frequently partner with these sites.
Planning with Points
You’re going to spend money on your vacation, so why not get rewarded for it? The best part is, these days you don’t even need a credit card to earn rewards. “Although credit cards are the fastest way to rack up points and miles, you can earn them just by flying, shopping, dining, and more,” says Emily McNutt, news editor at The Points Guy, the travel advice blog. “If you have a frequent-flyer account, you can earn miles by flying with that airline or partner airlines. Or, if you want to earn miles without flying, you can do online shopping through an airline shopping portal, granting you bonus miles for every dollar spent.” This is good news because while credit cards require certain credit scores, credit balances, and other qualifications to apply, none of that applies to collect miles through an airline’s program. And while you’re at it, check to see if the airline has retail partners. For instance, if you link your JetBlue TrueBlue account to your Lyft app, you can earn miles each time you take a Lyft to and from an airport. Of course, don’t write off credit card rewards either. Some cards, such as the IHG Rewards Club Premium, offer a free one-night hotel voucher each year if you spend a minimum annually, according to McNutt. Chase Sapphire Preferred and Amex Platinum have travel perks including credits for Uber and refunds for TSA Pre Check enrollment, Gleeson says. “Points and miles are a currency, and should be treated with the same value in mind that you have when dealing with cash,” McNutt says. “Usually, you’ll get the best value out of redeeming your points or miles for free travel—flights or hotel stays.” When planning a Disney trip, the Chase Disney credit card is very convenient, according to Lauren Holt, a member of Disney Parks Mom’s Panel, a group of people that are experienced in planning Disney trips. For every Disney trip you book using this card, you get six months to pay it off, interest free. The card also helps you garner Disney reward credit at the park, including discounts on tours, restaurants, and merchandise. What many people don’t know is, not every travel rewards program locks you into a certain airline based on the travel card you have. While certain cards, such as a Delta co-branded Amex card, only allow you to fly with that particular airline, many offer greater flexibility. Though planning ahead can help you save money and stress, Holt suggests leaving some room during your trip for spontaneity. “The planning can be very helpful, but don’t feel like you need to have an itinerary for every single minute,” Gleeson says. “Leave room for unscripted moments.” The unexpected fun you may have will add extra value to your already affordable vacation!
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family life home
Prep Your Home for Your Vacation Ten things to do before traveling to keep your house safe—and give you peace of mind
S
ummer is fast approaching, which means it’s time for sun, fun, and a family vacation. Unfortunately, it’s also busy season for criminals who take advantage of the fact that homeowners will be away for days or weeks at a time. Most home burglaries take place in July and August, when windows are more likely to be left open and families leave for excursions, according to information from Esurance. As if property theft wasn’t enough to threaten your house while you’re away, plumbing and other utility mishaps could result in property damage and big financial problems when you return. The good news? There are some simple things you can do to prepare your house before you leave to help prevent these catastrophes from occurring. The below list of tips from home-protection experts will help you enjoy a stress-free and relaxing holiday without worrying about things back home.
Make Your House Look Occupied
The simplest yet most effective thing you can do to thwart burglars is to leave a few lights on around the house, giving the appearance that someone is home. Dale Martin, co-vice president of claims at Franklin Mutual Insurance, recommends setting interior and exterior lights on an automatic timer. Another telltale sign no one is home is a full mailbox. “Have a family member or trusted neighbor collect the mail, newspaper, and packages, or have the post office put a temporary hold on delivery,” Martin says.
Arrange for Yard Care
An unkempt lawn can be another clear indicator that a house is empty. Mow your lawn before you leave, or “ask a trusted neighbor or lawn service to keep the yard cut and maintained while you’re away,” Martin advises. 40 June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
››
By Barbara Russo
Prevent Potential Water Damage
Avoid a plumbing disaster by turning off the main water supply valve to your home before you head out, Martin recommends. Doing so will help prevent small leaks that may occur from turning into a nightmare scenario of a flooded house, destroyed property, and huge repair bills. You can also do a quick search for leaks or cracks in water lines that lead to sinks and toilets, and get them fixed before you leave. And make sure gutters, downspouts, and drains are clear. “If water overflows from its proper channels, it can seep under siding and flood the basement,” says Kristie Bergey, a leasing and sales agent at Very Real Estate in Philadelphia.
Run the Dishwasher
“After the cycle has finished, empty the dishwasher, then leave the door open,” Bergey recommends. “That will allow the interior to dry, and it won’t smell musty by the time you get home.” Bergey also recommends flushing the toilet and leaving the lid up so the water doesn’t become stagnant.
Unplug Appliances
Do a double check before you leave to unplug small appliances, especially ones you’ll be using right before you walk out the door. “Make sure you unplug things like hair curlers, irons. You’re packing and you’re in a rush, you can leave something plugged in that is potentially a dangerous situation,” says Anthony Marino, a licensed associate real estate broker based in southwest and downtown Brooklyn.
Pay Your Bills
Or make sure you schedule payments so you don’t miss important due dates. Travelers often use credit cards, so it’s especially important to
make sure those bills are paid. “Sometimes, if you don’t pay your credit card on time, they’ll lock your account until it’s paid. Then, all of a sudden you’re making calls or having to pay over the phone,” Marino says. It’s also a good idea to let your credit card companies, bank, and cellphone service know in advance you’ll be traveling. Otherwise, your out-of-town purchases can look like suspicious activity, resulting in a hold being placed on your cards.
Are You a Parent or Caregiver with a Young Child Facing
Behavioral, Social or Anxiety Challenges?
Arm the Alarms
Bergey advises homeowners to let their security companies know they’ll be away. “Give a family member or friend your alarm code, the security company’s phone number, your itinerary, and contact numbers,” she says. “Press the test button on your smoke alarms to make sure they work, and change the battery if necessary.”
Consider Smart-Home Technology
Smart home cameras and surveillance systems are all the rage in home security these days. They tend to be easier to install than fullfledged security systems, and being wire-free, it’s much harder for a burglar to take apart the system before attempting to break in. The technology works through your cellphone or tablet, allowing you to see what’s going on back home. “When people go on vacation, they tend to make changes to household care routines to make sure things run smoothly while they’re gone, like coordinating with the house cleaner and keeping the dog walker on a tighter schedule,” according to Alex Teichman, CEO and co-founder of Lighthouse AI, which manufactures a 3-D sensing smart-home security camera. “Smart home cameras ensure your home continues to run normally while you’re away on holiday or even if you’re traveling locally.”
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If you’re going away without your car, make sure you’re parked for alternate side of the street laws. You don’t want to come back with a bunch of tickets on your windshield. “Depending on how long and when you’re going to be away, try to find a place where you can either park and have it okay for the week, or have someone, like a family member, potentially move your car for you,” Marino says. If your house has a driveway, have that be your car’s home while you’re away. If you have a garage, Bergey recommends parking your car outside against the doors to block access. “Remove garage door remotes from the car and unplug the electric door opener—the box unit attached to the garage ceiling—so that the door can’t be opened while you’re away,” she says. “Make sure to lock the car and garage doors.”
Don’t Post Your Trip on Social Media
It may be tempting to tell the world about your upcoming tropical getaway or camping experience, but doing so could be dangerous. Most home-security experts will agree that announcing you’re not home on social media is an open invitation to burglars. Wait until you return to post that selfie of you with a palm tree or exploring the Grand Canyon. Some things seem obvious to do before you say, “bon voyage,” but a gentle reminder can’t hurt. If possible, ask a trusted neighbor or family member to check in on the house every so often. And of course, make arrangements for your beloved pets and plants, and take the time to make sure all your doors and windows are locked. A double check for peace of mind before you get going is a good idea, too. It’ll make lounging on the beach much more relaxing. Barbara Russo is a freelance writer who holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the City University of New York. She enjoys playing guitar, following current events, and hanging out with her pet rabbits.
BrooklynParent 41
raising kids baby
Sponsored by
The Beauty of Daddy-Baby Bonding
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Forming close ties with a newborn can be difficult for fathers, but that relationship has lasting benefits. Four dads weigh in. By Jennie Russo
L
et’s face it: Parenthood is scary for both new mothers and fathers. One of the scariest moments of all, in fact, comes when they’re handed their infant in the hospital. What happens next can be very different for women versus men. Mothers tend to bond with their newborns immediately, but some fathers struggle to feel that special closeness. So what makes for a rough start to fatherhood? It isn’t only about biology: Social stereotypes, the workplace, and gender role expectations are all partly to blame. Although the U.S. Department of Labor says that paternity leave—especially longer leaves of several weeks or months—can promote parent-child bonding, improve outcomes for children, and even increase gender equality at home and work, many new fathers don’t take it. While New York’s paid family leave is certainly encouraging more new dads to step off from the workplace for a little while, there is still a serious imbalance between maternity and paternity leave. Fathers are pressured by society and employers to return to work much sooner than they should. They are seen as breadwinners, not caregivers, unless they have the option to be a stay-at-home dad. Unfortunately, according to the DOL, fewer than half the countries in the world provide men with access to paid leave to care for a new child, while virtually all provide paid maternity leaves. On average, 70 percent of new fathers take 10 days or fewer after their baby is born—not nearly enough time to adjust to parenthood and create that everlasting bond with their child.
Confidence and Patience Are Key
“The process of bonding with a new baby is natural for most mothers,” says Mary Beth Steinfield, M.D., developmental and behavioral pediatrician at University of California Davis Medical Center and University 42
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
of California Davis Children’s Hospital. A mother’s instincts generally kick in immediately as she starts to differentiate her baby’s cries, wants, and needs based on body language alone. But not all women jump right into motherhood knowing exactly what to do and when. In those instances, “giving the father time to bond with the baby can be a crucial step,” says Christina Johnson, mother of an 8-month-old. A father may also be able to take the lead when a mother has a complicated delivery such as an emergency C-section, which was the case for Johnson. “For the first few days I wasn’t able to do anything,” she says. “He was the one who fed and changed her.” In situations like this one, a father has an opportune moment to step in and not only help the mother but create his own bond starting right after delivery. Even when the moment arises, though, “fathers often feel less confident than new mothers,” according to Dr. Steinfield. Here is what most people don’t realize: Fathers “can become just as nurturing as mothers,” and “are capable of a strong bonding attachment to their infants during the newborn period,” says William Sears, M.D., associate professor of pediatrics at University of California Irvine School of Medicine. In fact, there’s scientific evidence to back up that statement. Although dads are not involved in some of the physical aspects of child rearing, research has discovered they show elevated levels of oxytocin that match the oxytocin levels in mothers. Oxytocin plays a major role in making “a healthy father-baby bond,” says Ruth Feldman, Ph.D., a professor of developmental social neuroscience at Bar-Ilan University in Israel. A baby’s instant attachment to mom may seem like a blockade for some dads, but for Brandon Foltz, Salvatore Ferro, John Fontain, and Chad Patoray, it was never an issue. These dads say they were just happy to be
fathers. Although they may not be the ones who gave birth, they’ve been more than capable of connecting with their children on a mental and emotional level, as well as participating in their newborn’s care.
A Relationship Worth the Work
Although not all fathers find it easy to bond with their baby right from birth, it’s worth working at the relationship, experts say. A study by the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, & Neonatal Nursing found that when fathers delay bonding with their newborns, they risk altering the longterm course of paternal involvement as the infant progresses throughout childhood and adolescence. Delayed bonding also increases the risk that a dad will experience postpartum depression, the study discovered. Perseverance is key. “For dads, it sometimes seems difficult to bond with their newborns because they always seem to want their mom,” Ferro explains. “What I used to do is if the baby started crying, instead of my wife holding him, I would pick him up, cradle him, talk or sing to him, and wait for him to fall asleep. As he got a little older, whenever he would cry he would reach his arms out for me.” Infants aren’t always the most exciting to watch or interact with, which may make it frustrating to find a way to connect. “When your child is an infant, it’s tough for a male to bond. At first, he just lies there and does nothing,” Foltz admits. His advice? “Take it in because he is always changing and molding. My baby, at six weeks, doesn’t even look the same as when he was born. His habits are always changing too.” As the baby continues to grow and form a personality, the relationship between father and baby will become more lively and obvious. Other things Fontain, Foltz, Ferro, and Patoray did to bond with their babies include taking their infants for a walk, talking to them, holding them as much as possible, playing with them, sleeping next to them, having skin-to-skin contact, doing tummy time together, and giving hugs and kisses. Additionally, mothers can hand off feeding duties to Dad. (If they’re breast-feeding, Mom can pump and allow Dad to bottle-feed the baby.) This way Dad gets the same intimate bonding time as Mom.
Bonding Beyond Infancy
As infants get older, the way fathers bond with them naturally shifts, too. Foltz, Fontain, Patoray, and Ferro share ideas for continued father-child closeness: • Shoulder a fair share of chores. Foltz stresses the importance of taking over some tasks such as bath time and diaper changes. • Be there for the child. Patoray urges fathers to “not miss a thing,” from major milestones to little moments. • Resist taking the easy way out. Fontain advises fathers to play with their kids, not just put them in front of the TV. • Use interests as a way to connect. Ferro says passing down his love for soccer gave him and his son a common interest in later years. Johnson agrees that the little things, like changing a stinky diaper or reading a story, “go a long way.” These are all moments that matter in children’s development and bond creation with their father. As unsatisfying as it may seem at the time, it ultimately adds up to a wonderful father-baby relationship. Jenny Russo, a graduate of the College of Saint Elizabeth and New York University, is a freelance writer and editor and full-time marketing associate.
From our sponsors: The mission of Allied Foundation is to impact and improve the health and well-being of residents within Allied Physicians Group’s geographical footprint, which currently includes Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk), Queens, Brooklyn, Richmond, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange. The Allied Foundation funds community-based strategies and initiatives, including Breastfeeding Support (toll-free Support Line: 866-621-2769; Breast Milk Depots), Community Education (free app—AlliedPG—and lectures about such topics as ADHD, managing food allergies, behavioral health, and infant CPR), Early Childhood Literacy (proud partner of Reach Out and Read and The BookFairies); and Community Service (Diaper Bank of Long Island). For more information, visit alliedfoundation.org.
#ReclaimingMyPride
Metrosource.com/reclaimingmypride | Oneworldobservatory.com
Each exhibit ticket purchased will raise funds for the Ali Forney Center
Images are of submissions to the contest and are not finalists. Exhibited works are subject to change without notice.
Finalist artists showcased in the exhibition entered their works into Metrosource’s Reclaiming My Pride contest to express what pride means to them in the spirit of community, creativity, and charity.
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BrooklynParent 43
raising kids teen
College Crash Course
››
How to help your teen prepare for—and succeed in—his first year of higher education By Caitlin Sawicki
C
Since attending college is likely the first time your teen will be on his own, give him more independence this summer. Have her practice for college by letting her have a later curfew or not “checking in” with her as often as you normally would. It could make the transition to being in charge of his own schedule easier. “If they make a mistake, you want them to make it while they’re still at home, so you are there for them,” Fireborn says.
they’re the reasons your teen is there, after all. College courses tend to have more rigorous syllabi than high school, so it can be difficult for some students to keep up. But the scare tactics some high school teachers love to use about professors only caring about their paycheck and not their students are often false and can lead to discouragement. “Professors are not in the business of wanting to fail students,” says Rogernelle Griffin, director of William Paterson University’s Academic Success Center. “If students don’t have a grasp of the material or [are] intimidated, they’ll withdraw [from the class] and not be engaged.” But students have to be the one to initiate contact, according to Griffin. A professor won’t know if a student is struggling unless the student approaches her and takes advantage of her office hours. Parents should encourage self-advocacy and tell their teen it’s okay to ask for help, Griffin says. Many academic advisors and tutoring centers have open door policies and can answer any questions students may have. If your teen is struggling, Griffin recommends asking him, “Have you visited the academic success center?” instead of pressuring him by saying, “I’m paying all this money.” And just talking about it isn’t enough, Fireborn says. It is also important for teens to check their school’s resources as soon as possible, especially if your teen has learning disabilities. “By being aware of what’s offered, if something arises, you know where to go for help,” Fireborn says. In addition to encouraging their teen to speak up for herself, parents should suggest she get involved in clubs and activities on campus. Students who are involved in extracurricular activities tend to get better grades, says Zoe Ragouzeos, Ph.D., LCSW, executive director of Counseling and Wellness Services at New York University.
Advocating for Academic Success
Staying Healthy
ollege is a brand-new experience for teens, and while it can be exciting, it can also be overwhelming. The number one thing parents can do to prepare their teen for her first semester is to talk to her and let her know it’s okay to experience a range of conflicting emotions. Katherine Fireborn, parenting expert and head of the Fireborn Institute, which helps students thrive in school through parent education, says teens are likely experiencing a lot of emotions about the transition and tend to focus on the negative. “You really want to talk about preparing for college,” Fireborn says. “It is totally different than anything they’ve ever experienced. Ask what they’re looking forward to, what they’re scared of.” But don’t be overbearing or push the subject too hard with your teen since it can lead to feelings of uncertainty, Fireborn notes. If your teen seems to be uninterested in talking, it can help to share fun stories with him about your college experience and what you were excited for, such as going out with friends during the week or extracurricular activities. Having conversations with your teen about what to expect and how to handle herself will go a long way to ensuring she is successful at college.
Slowly Letting Go
Classes and academic work are essential to the college experience— 44
June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
Talking to your teen about his physical and mental health while he’s
in school is important to his success. A good mental health discussion for parents to have with their teen is the importance of eating well, getting adequate sleep, and setting time aside to unwind, Dr. Ragouzeos says. But decide how much you’re going to do for your teen once she’s in college, she advises. There is a line between advocating for your teen and not teaching him how to be his own advocate. Megan Hener, certified personal trainer and owner of Meg Hener Fitness in Clifton, NJ, believes lack of structure is the number one culprit for deteriorating physical and mental health in college students, along with exhaustion from over scheduling. “Sometimes meal prepping takes time and a lot of college students do not want to invest the time out of their already packed schedules. The same goes for workouts,” she says. But a healthy lifestyle is so important. “There are no negatives to living a healthy lifestyle and it’s setting the stage for the rest of your life,” Hener says. “When you do something for yourself daily, it gives you an opportunity to clear your head and feel good about yourself.” Share these tips with your teen to help her stay healthy: Find on-campus resources. If your teen is on medication and/or is seeing a therapist prior to college, have her connect with and learn about her school’s resources before she arrives, Dr. Ragouzeos recommends.
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Make time for fitness. A busy lifestyle is no excuse to neglect physical wellbeing. Hener’s an entrepreneur and mom of two, yet still clears one to two hours a day for her workouts. “I set aside that time no matter what, whether it’s not scheduling clients or waking up extra early,” she says. Choose healthier options. Eating fresh, full, and balanced meals with healthy proteins and fats cuts down on snacking and latenight binge eating. “Packing healthy snacks [helps to avoid] hitting the vending machines,” Hener says. “Looking at menus before going out to eat and knowing what you will order can reduce giving into peer pressure to make an unhealthy choice.” Get a workout buddy or register for a group workout. Once you get into a groove of incorporating workouts into your daily life, it becomes something you actually look forward to. Drink in moderation if you are of legal age. Avoiding alcohol may not feel like an option to some college students, but refraining from drinking every night and choosing a light beer over sweeter drinks is a way to watch sugar intake. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Many schools have anonymous hotlines and can connect students to external sources if needed.
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Being Safe at Parties
ACTIVITIES
It is important to remind your child that movies depicting college party scenes are not reality. Give her these tips for having fun wisely: Have a designated driver. This person should be determined before she and her group of friends go to the party. Ask if she has Uber or Lyft on her smartphone for easy access. (She should always double check that the driver and license plate match what’s on her phone.) Have a buddy system. Be sure your teen knows to arrive at and leave the party in the same Uber, Lyft, or designated driver’s car as his friends. Keep an eye on your drinks, even nonalcoholic ones. This will decrease any chances of her drink being tampered with. Though you may not be ready to talk about your child leaving the nest just yet, having discussions with your teen about these topics can prevent future issues. “You don’t want to wait until there is a problem or scramble at the last minute,” Dr. Ragouzeos says.
Serving the Brooklyn Heights and Park Slope communities of Brooklyn, NY, Brooklyn Family Orthodontics is proud to provide quality care and individual attention to our patients in a modern, notice on activities, state-of-the-art facility
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Caitlin Sawicki, a former NYMP editorial intern, is a recent college graduate.
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Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS PEDIATRIC IMMEDIATE CARE 698 Manhattan Ave. 718-389-PEDS (7337) 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-ofthe-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted. SPECIAL NEEDS LITTLE OPTICS INC. 192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, Queens 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside, Queens 718-468-7500; hablamos Español littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional eye care for children, including infants, and young adults. We also alleviate any self-esteem issues associated with the stigma of wearing glasses. When your child leaves Little Optics, rest assured that they will feel confident. THERAPY & COUNSELORS MR. SPEECH PATHOLOGY 347-399-4836 mrspeechpathology.com info@mrspeechpathology.com Eugene Chuprin is a bilingual (English-Russian) speech-language pathologist conducting evaluations and providing therapy in the New York City area. His specialty is treating pediatrics with language disorders, articulation disorders, and stuttering. TUTORS & TEST PREP EYE LEVEL BROOKLYN Eye Level Sheepshead Bay 1605 Voorhees Ave. 718-891-5437, Veronica Verdino Eye Level Park Slope 150 4th Ave. 718-260-8100, Daisy Farrugia myeyelevel.com Eye Level offers math and English programs for ages 3-14. Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic education, Eye Level is the answer. SCIENTIA TUTORING Servicing Brooklyn and Manhattan scientia.brooklyn@gmail.com Experienced, understanding, compassionate, independent school teachers offer support for Spanish, Latin, French, English, essays, literature, physics, biology, chemistry, algebra, and geometry—all levels. 46
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Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources. PARTY ENTERTAINMENT CLOWNS.COM Proudly serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000; 718-971-5862 clowns.com We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals. PARTY PLACES BOUNCEU 6722 Fort Hamilton Parkway (entrance on 67th Street and 9th Avenue), Dyker Heights 347-450-5867 bounceu.com/brooklyn-ny BounceU, the premier birthday party and play experience in all of Brooklyn. We’re a 30,000-square-foot indoor recreational facility with “YUGE” inflatable play equipment. CHELSEA PIERS SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, Manhattan Field House Registration Desk: 212-336-6500 x6520 chelseapiers.com/youth Why cross the bridge for your next birthday party? Because Chelsea Piers parties are action-packed, entertaining, and hassle-free, with more sports, activities, and fun than any other party venue in NYC! FAIRYTALE ISLAND 7110-3rd Ave. 646-667-9096 facebook.com/fairytaleislandplayground icecream124@hotmail.com Fairytale Island provides a high quality, safe, and amazing indoor space for hosting birthday parties. This environment will also encourage social, emotional, language, cognitive, and physical skill development. INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Manhattan 646-381-5010 intrepidmuseum.org groupsales@intrepidmuseum.org Celebrate your child’s birthday with a
one-of-a-kind party! The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will captivate groups of all ages and interests. Choose from exciting themes, value packages, and customization options to create a birthday adventure they’ll remember forever! KIDS ‘N ACTION 1149 McDonald Ave. 718-377-1818 kidsnaction.com steven@kidsnaction.com Fun and thrills are what your kids will have at Kids ‘N Action. Kids never get bored enjoying our thrilling indoor roller coaster, amusing winding train, exciting go-karts, and action-filled arcade games. Parties include unlimited soft play and rides. WHEEL FUN RENTALS - MARINE PARK Avenue U and East 33rd Street, Marine Park 917-533-6196 LeFrak Center at Lakeside, 171 East Drive, Prospect Park 718-462-0010 9000 Bay Parkway, Bensonhurst Park 805-650-7770 Flushing Meadows Corona Park, David Dinkins Circle, Meridian Road, Queens 929-343-2366 Flushing Meadows Corona Park at North Meadow Lake, Meadow Lake Road West, Queens 917-231-5519 wheelfunrentals.com Wheel Fun Rentals is the perfect place for birthday parties! Kids and adults can explore the area on one of our specialty bikes, or go on a Surrey Scavenger Hunt! WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIETY (WCS) ZOOS AND AQUARIUM Bronx Zoo 800-433-4149; bzeducation@wcs.org Central Park Zoo 212-439-6551; cpzbirthdayparties@wcs.org New York Aquarium 800-433-4149; nyaeducation@wcs.org Prospect Park Zoo 718-399-7339 x327 ppzbirthdayparties@wcs.org Queens Zoo 718-271-1500 x313; qzeducation@wcs.org wcs.org/birthdays If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime birthday adventure, we have you covered! Our birthdays combine live animal meet and greets, visits to our exhibits, and hands-on activities to make your party animal’s birthday a truly unforgettable experience!
OPENHOUSES 2018 CBE KIDS CAMP Elementary and Travel camps
274 Garfield Place, Park Slope 718-768-3814 cbebk.org/camp bfinkelstein@cbebk.org Please call for a personal tour and to learn more about our programs.
The Learnatory
St. Francis College, 180 Remsen St. 347-787-0435 thelearnatory.org dthompson@thelearnatory.org Join us for an open house on June 3 from 1-4pm. Robotics and game design class demos. Free animation class! RSVP at 347787-0435.
Mill Basin Day Camp
5945 Strickland Ave. 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Join us for an open house on June 3 or 16 from 11am-2pm.
RAINE & RILEY'S Children's Clothing Join us for our NEW Summer/ Fall Yoga Sessions! • Wednesday Nights | 5:45pm (Ages 3yr - 8yrs) • Monday Nights | 5:30pm (Ages 8yr - 13yrs)
Science, Language & Arts International School
126 St. Felix St. 718–636–3836 slaschool.org/camp Join us for a tour and open house May 30 at the main campus, or June 5 at the Annex. See the school and meet the staff!
For more info, email: RaineandRileyEvents@yahoo.com
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Meet the
Health Care Professional Pediatric Immediate Care 698 Manhattan Ave. 718-389-PEDS (7337) 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337); pediatricimmediatecare.com
Dr. Charlot Cascya - Allergy and Asthma Care of Brooklyn 10 Plaza St. E., Suite 1E 311 Saint Nicholas Ave., Ridgewood 347-564-3211 brooklynallergydr.com
Park Slope Kids Dental Care 150 4th Ave. 718-488-0200 parkslopekidsdental.com
Brooklyn Family Orthodontics Alexis K. Fermanis, D.D.S., M.S. 142 Joralemon St., 6B, Brooklyn Heights 73 8th Ave., at Union Street, Park Slope 718-395-6582; bkfamilyortho.com
Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-ofthe-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted. Complete pediatric and adolescent care, as well as baby, camp, school, and sports physicals. Certified urgent care recommended by Urgent Care Association of America. Thirty years of dedication to our patients. The offices are open seven days a week including holidays, 8am-11pm.
At Park Slope Kids Dental Care, children who are first seen for a friendly examination and cleaning are able to enjoy the dental experience and build a bond of trust with us. A customized dental plan that includes prevention, growth development, and possible treatment is created to fit your child’s specific dental needs. We are committed to giving children the best possible experiences at our office to help set them up for a lifetime of good oral health.
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Dr. Cascya Charlot is an award-winning, Harvard Medical School-trained physician who is board-certified in pediatric and adult allergy and immunology. She is the chief of pediatric allergy at Methodist Hospital in Park Slope, and medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of Brooklyn, in Park Slope and Williamsburg. She evaluates patients for a wide variety of allergic conditions including asthma, eczema, food allergies, sinusitis, and environmental allergies. Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades including the prestigious Patients’ Choice “Most Compassionate Doctor” award in 2012 and 2013.
Dr. Alexis Fermanis is an orthodontic specialist who practiced in Brooklyn for 10 years before starting Brooklyn Family Orthodontics in 2014. She is a native New Yorker and enjoys running and traveling in her free time. Dr. Fermanis believes that a beautiful smile makes a great first impression and she is passionate about providing that to her patients. She is active in her alumni societies and local dental organizations, and regularly attends continuing-education classes so she can provide the most successful results for her patients.
raising kids ad index NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! birthday / party services
Smart Start.....................................................................27
NYC Tae Kwon Do..........................................................18
Wheel Fun Rentals.........................................................35
Urban Glass....................................................................26
Raine & Riley’s...............................................................47
camps
dance
health
April’s Dance - N - Feet..................................................25
April’s Dance - N - Feet..................................................25
Allergy & Asthma Care of Brooklyn..........................45, 48
Joffrey Ballet School.........................................................8
Brooklyn Family Orthodontics...................................45, 48
Brooklyn Friends School.................................................19 Camp Maritime...............................................................27 Chelsea Piers.................................................................17 Congregation Beth Elohim..............................................23 Dutch Total Soccer Brooklyn..........................................26 FasTracKids Brooklyn / Staten Island............................23 JCC of Mid-Westchester.................................................21 Joffrey Ballet School.........................................................8 Keylab.............................................................................26 Leif Ericson Day School.................................................19 Little Scholars.................................................................27 Mill Basin Day Camp........................................................5 NYC Tae Kwon Do..........................................................18 Park Slope Day Camp....................................................52 Rab’s Country Lanes........................................................3 Science, Language & Arts International School.............27 Smart Start.....................................................................27 Streb...............................................................................18 The Learnatory.................................................................9 Urban Explorers Day Camp..............................................7 Urban Glass....................................................................26 YMCA of Greater New York............................................25
child care / day care JCC of Mid-Westchester.................................................21 Mommybites...................................................................25 Smart Start.....................................................................27
classes April’s Dance - N - Feet..................................................25
Streb...............................................................................18
developmental YMCA of Greater New York............................................25
education Brienza’s Academic Advantage......................................13 Brooklyn College Prep Center For Performing Arts........21 Brooklyn Friends School.................................................19
Park Slope Kids Dental Care....................................10, 48 Pediatric Immediate Care.........................................39, 48
music Brooklyn College Prep Center For Performing Arts........21 Keylab.............................................................................26 Llingsworth Music...........................................................47 Music Together of Bay Ridge..........................................39
Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate..........................11
performing arts / acting
FasTracKids Brooklyn / Staten Island............................23
Joffrey Ballet School.........................................................8
JCC of Mid-Westchester.................................................21 K12 ................................................................................11
religious
Leif Ericson Day School.................................................19
Leif Ericson Day School.................................................19
Little Scholars.................................................................27 Music Together of Bay Ridge..........................................39 OHEL Children’s Home & Family...................................41 Science, Language & Arts International School.............27 The Learnatory.................................................................9 The Learning Experience - Brooklyn..............................14 UFT Charter School........................................................14
family entertainment / events / outings Land of Make Believe.....................................................37 Llingsworth Music...........................................................47 National Museum of the American Indian.......................37 OHEL Children’s Home & Family...................................41 Rab’s Country Lanes........................................................3
Brienza’s Academic Advantage......................................13
School of Rock ................................................................2
Brooklyn College Prep Center For Performing Arts........21
Wheel Fun Rentals.........................................................35
Brooklyn Friends School.................................................19
Wild West City................................................................37
Chelsea Piers.................................................................17 Dutch Total Soccer Brooklyn..........................................26
family travel
Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate..........................11
Land of Make Believe.....................................................37
Keylab.............................................................................26
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Little Scholars.................................................................27
retail Llingsworth Music...........................................................47 Raine & Riley’s...............................................................47
special needs JCC of Mid-Westchester.................................................21 OHEL Children’s Home & Family...................................41
sports Camp Maritime...............................................................27 Chelsea Piers.................................................................17 Dutch Total Soccer Brooklyn..........................................26 Mill Basin Day Camp........................................................5 NYC Tae Kwon Do..........................................................18 Streb...............................................................................18 Urban Explorers Day Camp..............................................7 YMCA of Greater New York............................................25
theater School of Rock ................................................................2
tutors
Music Together of Bay Ridge..........................................39
fitness
Brienza’s Academic Advantage......................................13
Rab’s Country Lanes........................................................3
Camp Maritime...............................................................27
FasTracKids Brooklyn / Staten Island............................23
Raine & Riley’s...............................................................47
Mill Basin Day Camp........................................................5
The Learnatory.................................................................9
BrooklynParent 49
raising kids quotables
What are you most looking forward to doing with your kids this summer? “Nothing! Having four kids means making four lunches and driving to four different after-school activities. I’m looking forward to taking a break and spending some quality time as a family doing nothing.” —Sabrina Marquez, Haverstraw, Rockland County
“We take a trip every summer to the Poconos. This year my husband’s family will be joining too, and I’m so excited about slowing things down a bit and getting away from our busy Brooklyn neighborhood.” —Corrina Inez, Williamsburg
“My oldest daughter will be attending camp for the first time. I’m excited to visit her on Parent’s Day and learn about all the great things she is experiencing. Camp was such a special time in my life, and I’m happy to share that with my daughter.” —Rachel Fisher, Manhattan
in an instagram “Long work weeks allow me to appreciate these moments that much more. I live for the moment that I get to unplug and sneak away with my little people to explore, discover, and take in the beauty of nature. What I have realized is minus the devices I barely have to use my motivational mom voice.”
“I love taking my kids to the playground in the summer, especially at dusk, when the sun is starting to set but it’s still warm out. It’s just one of those uniquely New York experiences, being outside in the city at night with kids. It’s almost magical.” —Lisa Terk, Long Island City, Queens
“The beaches on Long Island are where it’s at during the summer. This summer my kids are learning to surf, so I can’t wait to see them on their boards!” —Christine Feldenberg, Smithtown, Long Island
(Posted by @geaninecilenti aka Bronx mom, Geanine Cilenti)
Because on those nights, when that sweet little girl asks for one more thing (whether it’s another glass of water or another book or another snuggle), she doesn’t understand. She doesn’t understand that for the last two hours, you said “please eat your dinner” and “please stop falling off of your chair” and “yes, you need to eat at least once carrot” and “we don’t slap each other’s butts at the table”… and then you washed the hair of a small human who writhed in pain and spit fire at you as shampoo clearly is a form of torture and then wrestled him into pajama bottoms as he tried wriggling away in a 10-minute long game of pretending to be a slippery eel. -Karen Johnson in a post entitled “Why I F*cking Hate Bedtime,” on scarymommy.com.
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June 2018 | nymetroparents.com
Stay Cool When It’s HOT Outside! “Whenever high heat and humidity reach critical levels, any activities that last 15 minutes or more should not be too intense. Before prolonged physical activity (think baseball, soccer, or any kind of running), your child should be well hydrated. During the activity, make sure your child drinks periodically, even if he is not thirsty.” —Danielle Sullivan in an article entitled “Outdoor Summer Safety For Kids”; read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/ summer-safety.
More NYMetroParents.com Highlights: CELEBRATE DAD: Find tips for making Father’s Day extra special at nymetroparents.com/fathers-day. DAY TRIP: Visit Hyde Park, home of President Franklin Roosevelt (nymetroparents.com/hyde-park). ACTIVITY QUIZ: Plan the perfect day for your family at nymetroparents.com/activity-quiz. FREE ADVICE: Download a helpful parenting guide at nymetroparents.com/freebies.
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