Brooklyn Parent September 2018 by City Guide NY

Brooklyn rooklyn Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM SEPTEMBER 2018

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Find the perfect activity and school for your child

Saving for College It’s never too soon to start!

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HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

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Discover the Joy of Music & Dance!

Music, Dance, and Musical Theater Instruction for all ages Private Lessons • Group Classes • After School Classes Introducing... an expanded selection of Early Childhood Music and Movement SIGN UP FOR FALL CLASSES TODAY! 718 - 638 - 5660 • www.brooklynmusicschool.org • 126 St. Felix Street, Brooklyn, NY

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

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

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

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

BrooklynParent

contents table of

Original photo by ›› Big Apple Portraits (bigappleportraits.com) Clothing provided by Land’s End (landsend.com)

september 2018

16 30

back-to-school

Cute Stuff Alert!

A behind-the-scenes look at our annual cover contest photo shoot

Family Fun a Ride Away

Two can’t miss venues in Nassau County, plus a native American Museum in Connecticut and a Museum and Planetarium in Suffolk County.

18 Help Your Young Learner Thrive 20 Back-to-School Directory

25 Education Planner 28 After-School Planner

raising kids 6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 11 5 Rights Your Child Has in School 12 A Farewell to My Foster Daughter 16 Cute Stuff Alert! 42 The Beneﬁts of Baby Classes 44 From Friends to Falling Out 50 Party Central 50 Professional Services 52 Meet the Doctor 53 Advertisers’ Index 54 Quotables

things to do 14 Squeezy Bottle Rocket 30 Family Fun in Manhattan

Kitchen: Trending

Five big design fads happening in kitchens right now, according to interior designers

family life 46 Saving for Higher Education 48 Kitchen: Trending

31 Family Activities Calendar

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 16 And the Winner Is... 18 Help Your Student Thrive 20 Resources to Get Ready for Class 25 Education Planner 28 After-School Planner 46 Saving for College facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

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BrooklynParent

SEPTEMBER 2018 • Vol.15 • No.2

raising kids editor’s note

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling ASSISTANT EDITORS: Anja Webb, Melissa Wickes

Lots to Learn!

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT: Deborah Skolnik

e’re finally settling into a new school year. Your kids will be learning lots of new things, but did you ever stop to think about all you’ll be learning, too? For my family, this fall is the ultimate “teachable moment”: We packed up our older daughter and dropped her off at college for the first time. Now I’m learning how to be a parent even when my child is hours away. I’m figuring out how to temper my worry for her safety and happiness with pride that I raised a kid who’s ready to face the world without me. Whether you’re dropping off your toddler at day care or nursery school, waving your big kid onto a bus, or watching him disappear through those school doors, I’m right there with you in the trenches, feeling that pang of separation—and also that joy. If it makes you feel better, even the smallest of children get big benefits from learning lessons and interacting with their peers. Christina Vercelletto’s piece “The Benefits of Baby Classes,” on p. 40, explores the way infants and toddlers develop both socially and intellectually by being in a structured yet playful setting. And have you ever wondered what you as a parent can do to help your child succeed in school? You’ll want to read Alana Coopersmith’s story, “Help Your Young Learner Thrive” on p. 20. It explores kids’ different learning styles, and explains how to find the schools and activities that can help your unique child excel. Of course, navigating childhood and adolescence can be a challenge for kids at times. As children grow and change, even longstanding friendships can wane or abruptly end. Find out how you can help your child with the transition by reading Samantha Neudorf’s thoughtful article, “From Friends to Falling Out” on p. 42. With the right guidance, kids can find closure—and even a silver lining. And here’s a thought that will blow your mind: From the moment your child is born, it’s a good idea to be thinking about…college. Yes, even though it seems so far away, it’s wise to come up with a plan to shoulder all or part of the expenses. The estimated cost of a four-year private college 18 years from now tops $300,000! That may make you feel hopeless, but we’ll show you how to reach your goals in Barbara Russo’s story “Saving for Higher Education” on p. 44. It’s never too soon—or too late—to start saving! Ready for a lighter lesson? Katelin Walling’s got it for you with her fun piece, “Kitchen: Trending” (p. 46). It gives the 411 on what’s hot in kitchen design and accessories. We’ll show you how to bring the heart of your home up-to-date and make it cozier than ever. (And you don’t need to do a total renovation either—even a few minor changes can do the trick.) Lastly, don’t miss this month’s touching essay by Lindsay Smith, “A Farewell to My Foster Daughter” on p. 12. She cared for a beautiful baby girl from birth, but ultimately realized that the most loving thing she could do was give her to a family to permanently adopt. It’s a lesson that will resonate with every parent, since raising a child, for a year or straight through to adulthood, is ultimately—as I’ve learned—about letting go. Hoping your back-to-school season is exciting and enlightening!

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan, Westchester); Karen Lo (Brooklyn); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke

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Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson, Manager EJ Morales-Gomez Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents To Submit News: nymetroparents.com/submitnews

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OPERATIONS

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

PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR|PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz

MARKETING

MARKETING DIRECTOR: Ryan Christopher ASSISTANT MARKETING MANGER: Kristine Pulaski

Deborah Skolnik Director of Content

FINANCE

P.S. Got a personal story you’d like to share? We’d love to consider it for our Voices essay column. Send your submissions to editor@nymetroparents.com.

CONTROLLER: David Friedman CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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

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

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN •ROCKLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2017, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

problem-solving

build your own computer

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self-confidence

communications spa science

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creativity

empowerment

coding

mobile apps

robotics collaboration

writing Minecraft & Javascript python

exploration web development

3-d animation & special effects

discovery

Real Fun Skills. Real World Success.

engineering Internet of Things focus

Saturday Enrichment Program St. Francis College 180 Remsen Street Brooklyn, New York 11201 Near Borough Hall

BrooklynParent

it Sunset Park

raising kids new places, new programs

Who: CrossFit Sunset Park What’s New: Children’s classes, which started July 2. Classes are divided into three ages groups: 5-9 years, 10-12 years, and 13-17 years. The exercises the participants do are aimed at teaching proper movement and improving endurance, stamina, cardiovascular capacity, strength, ﬂexibility, and overall conditioning. Training consists of teaching fundamental body movements as well as basic gymnastics. Teen classes will be more structured with longer training components. When the staff deems them ready, the teens will be introduced to weighted exercises, and the strength and gymnastic training will advance as the teens’ skill level progresses. Want More Info: 5723 2nd Ave., Sunset Park; 718-354-5556; crossfitsunsetpark.com

Courtesy CrossF

Fitness Center in Sunset Park Offering Classes for Children Ages 5 to 17

ldren will ight, although chi olve only body we ropes, light p jum , Most exercises inv ers row r, use a pullup ba also learn how to to. xes for jumping on wall balls, and bo

Courtesy Ume Ume

In Ume Ume Music + Arts, children learn abo ut the world through music and the arts in a fun and academic sett ing without the commitment that com es with enrolling in a full-time preschool, according to Christo s Stavropoulos, CEO and co-founder of Um e Ume.

Who: Science, Language& Arts International School What’s New: The main campus in Downtown Brooklyn, Mandarin immersion track, and after-school program expansion for students from other schools starting this fall. Students interested in gaining ﬂuency in Mandarin can enroll in a full immersion track starting as early as nursery and pre-K. As students advance in grade level, classes transition from 95 percent target language immersion to 60 percent target language immersion and 40 percent English by fifth grade. “The new building is giving us the opportunity to grow into our original vision, which we were previously unable to do in our smaller space,” says Jennifer Wilkin, SLA founder and head of school. Want More Info: 9 Hanover Place, Downtown Brooklyn; 718-636-3836; slaschool.org; info@slaschool.org 8

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

International School

Independent School Moves to Downtown Brooklyn

The new campus is reﬂective of Scien ce, Language, & Arts International School’s growth.

Courtesy Science, Language & Arts

Who: Ume Ume Music + Arts of Park Slope What’s New: ‘Jump Start’ Preschool Alternative Program fall registration, which opened in June. The program offers families an academic alternative to a traditional preschool as children transition and are preparing for the next step on their educational journey. Admission is ongoing throughout the year. Flexible one-, two-, and three-day options on Mondays, Wednesdays, and/or Fridays from 9-11am are available and feature an original academic curriculum created specifically for ages 2-4. Ume Ume also offers enrichment programs, day camps, violin and piano lessons, birthday parties, and drop-in classes. Want More Info: 319 4th Ave., Park Slope; 718-768-0800; umeumearts.com

Music + Arts

Park Slope Music and Arts School Now Offering Preschool Alternative Program

Simplicity Compassion Peace Scholarship Integrity Equality Joy Patience Kindness At Brooklyn Friends we have all the makings of a great education. Join us for a tour this fall 375 Pearl & 116 Lawrence Streets Brooklyn, NY 11201 718.852-1029 www.brooklynfriends.org

HEADSTART

URBAN STRATEGIES, INC. EARLY LEARN PROGRAM 1091 SUTTER AVENUE, BROOKLYN NY 11208

TEL: 718-647-7700/718-235-6151 FAX: 718-235-2206 EMAIL: USHEADSTART1@AOL.COM

Urban Strategies Early Learn Program provides Child Care and Head Start services for children 2-5 years old. Urban Strategies is a safe and supportive Early Learn Program that promotes discovery and growth. Our program combines state-of-the-art facilities, a nationally recognized early childhood curriculum. We collaborate with families to help each child achieve Pre-kindergarten readiness. Get ready to invest in your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future as a life-long learner. BrooklynParent

raising kids child care

Improving the ParentNanny Relationship ›› Courtesy Mommybites.com

f you follow any of the ever-popular parenting boards or groups on social media sites, you’ve likely encountered more than one mother venting about her nanny. There seems to be a rise in the ideology that nannies must inherently be all-knowing, psychic, and micromanaged all at the same time. While in most cases this is simply a (major) miscommunication, rest assured there are easy steps you can take to ensure the nannyparent relationship is harmonious for all. Nannies: Moms aren’t all over-privileged tyrants. In most cases, moms are just tired, frazzled, and stressed out—with probably a hint of guilt thrown in for hiring a nanny in the first place. Moms: Nannies can’t read your mind. They aren’t out to steal your husbands either. Nor do they like being micromanaged to the point of a mental breakdown (would you like that kind of work environment?). The biggest “trick” to ensuring a healthy working relationship for everyone involved? Communication. Talk to each other in great detail both before the commitment begins and during the employment contract as well. It’s the only way you’ll both be on the same page, and it will iron out any misconceptions before they can even occur.

This goes without saying, but there needs to be a clear-cut set of instructions, rules, and/or guidelines that give details on what’s expected of everyone in the family (not just the nanny). Behaviors and discipline efforts need to be addressed up front. Schedules, routines, and any things or areas in the home that are off limits should be outlined as well. You can’t expect your nanny to know you planned to dress your kids in that outfit on Sunday if you didn’t tell her so. Nannies aren’t psychic.

Mommybites’ mom-generated nanny, babysitter, and nanny-share boards have been some of the most popular child-care resources in New York City since 2006. You can find nannies and babysitters as well as help them get new jobs. Join this community of moms and receive weekly parenting advice at mommybites.com/newyork.

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

raising kids in the know

The Mary Louis Academy

TMLA+

5 Rights Children Have in School ›› By Marion M. Walsh, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

Marion M. Walsh, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

ederal and state laws protect the rights of students in school, yet many parents are unaware of their child’s legal protections as a student. Here are five rights that your child—from kindergarten to high school—possesses in a public school: The right to be safe: Ultimately, every parent’s biggest concern is the safety of his or her child. Luckily, with certain limitations, teachers and administrators have the general duty to act as a parent when protecting their students, under the doctrine of in loco parentis. While this is not a guarantee of safety, your child has the right to supervision in school and the right to be safe from foreseeable harm. The right to freedom of speech: It is important to know when your school district is legally allowed to stop your child from protesting or speaking up. This is far less often than you probably imagine. Students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate,” according to the U.S. Supreme Court. Under the First Amendment, students have the right to free speech, as long as it does not cause a substantial disruption in school or interfere with the rights of others. The right to be free from severe and pervasive bullying and harassment: Bullying can have a devastating effect on any child and it is the obligation of the school to take reasonable steps to protect students from that harm. New York State’s Dignity for All Students Act seeks to provide students with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, harassment, and bullying in school or at school-related activities. This includes off-campus harassment or bullying where there is some sort of connection to the school. The right to evaluations and a free appropriate public education for students with disabilities: School districts have an obligation to identify and evaluate students suspected of having a special need that may impact learning. If a student is eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the school district must create an Individualized Education Program, which must provide instruction and services designed to meet the needs of a child. Parents have the right to challenge IEPs or lack of services in a due process hearing. Students with special needs also have the right to receive accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

At The Mary Louis Academy, you will find your own voice—distinctive, confident, intelligent, creative, and empowered—a voice that will be one of your greatest assets in life.

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 14, 2018 10am-3pm

SHADOW A STUDENT buddy@tmla.org

Please pre-register for our open house at tmla.org

VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.tmla.org

The Mary Louis Academy is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, New York. Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and Chartered by the State of NY.

The right to a free public education, regardless of race, color, national origin, or even immigration status: Families do not have to prove their immigration status to enroll their children in school, and public schools cannot deny undocumented children an education. This list is not inclusive of all rights and services your child has in school. If you believe your child’s rights have been abridged, consult with an experienced attorney. Marion M. Walsh, Esq., a partner with the firm Littman Krooks LLP, leads the education law practice. She has worked in education law for 20 years and has been an advocate for children in many capacities.

176-21 Wexford Terrace, Jamaica Estates, NY 11432 Phone: 718-297-2120 | Fax: 718-739-0037 @WEARETMLA | #HILLTOPPERNATION | TACHS #016 BrooklynParent 11

Ashley Formica Photography

raising kids voices

A Farewell to My Foster Daughter ››

Our story didn’t end in adoption, but it still had a very happy ending. By Lindsay Smith

here are some moments you never forget. Those times in your life—happy, tragic, heartbreaking—that are forever seared in your memory. Vivid details, emotions…time freezes, and you know for the rest of your life, you’ll know exactly where you were in that moment. That’s what it was like when I got the text message from the social worker. I was standing outside my car, waiting for my husband to leave work, one day away from giving birth to our third baby. At the sound of the soft ding, I looked down and read the message. “We got the order!” it said. And before I could stop myself, the tears were slipping down my cheeks. I’d wished and hoped for this moment. But standing there on that fall day, looking at that text message, all I felt was the wind being knocked from me. She’s leaving. Oh my God, she’s really leaving. From the first day our foster daughter entered our lives—two days old, right from the hospital—I knew this moment was coming. It had always been expected that she would be adopted. We’re foster parents, this is what we do: take in children for a short period of time, love them well, give them a safe and secure home, and then send them home. We’d been doing it for years at this point; we knew the drill. But we’d never had a newborn. Never raised a baby right from the beginning. I hadn’t gotten up in the middle of the night to feed a newborn, to rock a baby to sleep since my own babies. I hadn’t known the thrill of a first smile, first giggle, hadn’t felt the weight of a sleeping baby in seven years. It wasn’t hard to fall in love; it didn’t take long to wonder if we could adopt her. I feel like we hear a lot of those stories, the ones where the foster family adopts a child. Or adoption stories in general. And we hear them so often for good reason—they’re good stories. Redemptive and hopeful, they remind us of what’s good in the world. That wasn’t our story, though. We talked about it; I thought about it often, but it never felt as though it was the best decision for us. A few months into her placement, we found out we were

Lindsay Smith and her family

(unexpectedly) pregnant with our third child. That news certainly contributed to our decision, but at the core of it was the sense that adoption wasn’t to be our story. I struggled with it. I loved her so much; we all did. Saying goodbye to her was the hardest thing I have ever done, and I wondered if we had done the right thing. Would she understand why we didn’t adopt her? Had we inadvertently made her life more difficult by choosing not to adopt her and asking her to transition to another family? Would I ever stop missing her? It was so hard to believe something that hurt this much was the best thing for everyone involved. And then I met her family. I could see it when they saw her for the first time—this was one of their moments. I knew watching them that they would never forget the first time they laid eyes on their baby girl. It was such a privilege to witness the coming together of this family, to see this girl who I raised and loved so much be so adored by this couple. I saw them fall in love with her the way that we had; I watched how she fit with them, and I knew we made the right decision. This was her family. These were her people. This was their story, and we helped to make it happen. When we started fostering, I expected the most incredible feeling would be adopting a child who had come into your home. It didn’t take too long for me to realize the real gift in fostering is having a small part in bringing families together—in opening your heart and home for children and families who need it, and even breaking your own heart and saying goodbye. Sometimes, I still wonder what our family would have looked like if we’d been able to adopt her. But then I get a text from her mama and it has a picture or a video, and she tells me of new words and silly faces, and I know. I know she is happy. I know her family loves her. I know she will grow up feeling safe and secure. And I know we were so blessed to have been a part of it, to lay a foundation, to bridge the gap until she went to her forever family. That was our story, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Lindsay Smith believes that stories might just change the world. Her writing tackles issues around feminism, social justice, and parenting, and sometimes the intersection of all three. Learn more about her work and writing at lvsmithauthor.wordpress.com.

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Social Media Icons 2017:

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Call 866.206.1741 (TTY 711) AffinityPlan.org/CHP To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777.

BrooklynParent 13

THE SCHOOL

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things to do

diy corner

Squeezy Bottle Rocket

Now that summer is coming to an end, it’s time for the kids to put their thinking caps back on. And what better way to kick off the back-toschool season than by making a science craft? Get down to learning business by making this bottle rocket from Emma Vanstone’s “This is Rocket Science” to learn about trajectory! Trajectory is the path an object follows as it flies through the air. Imagine the path a ball takes when you throw it. If you throw the ball straight upward, its trajectory is different than if you throw it forward toward someone else. Rockets initially fly vertically upward through the lower, denser parts of the atmosphere but then turn so they are on the correct path to enter orbit around the Earth. This means their overall trajectory is a curved path, rather than the vertical path you might expect. This easy-to-construct rocket is great for investigating how the angle a rocket is launched from affects its flight. The rockets work because as you squeeze the bottle, air is forced out of the straw in the bottle and pushes against the rocket straw. This force causes the rocket straw to fly through the air. Materials

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Empty water bottles with a sports cap Scissors 2 straws, 1 wide enough fit over the other

Modeling clay Cardstock or paper Felt tip pens Tape

Directions To make the bottle part of the rocket, it’s really important to make sure the sports cap is completely airtight. If air can escape, your rocket won’t fly very far. Cut the thinner straw into quarters and put one segment into the center of the sports cap. Seal the straw around the cap using modeling clay. You can check if the seal is complete by squeezing the bottle: If the seal is secure, all of the air from the bottle should come out of the straw, not the bottle neck. This is your rocket launcher! To make the rocket part, first cut the wider straw into quarters and seal one end with tape; this is to stop air from escaping. Draw a rocket shape with felt tip pens on the cardstock or paper. Remember, the lighter the rocket, the farther it will fly. Attach the paper rocket onto one side of the rocket straw using tape and place it onto the straw in the rocket launcher. Squeeze the rocket launcher hard, and you should find that the rocket shoots up into the air. Try launching at different angles to see how you can make the rocket fly farther.

Reprinted from This is Rocket Science by Emma Vanstone with permission from Page Street Publishing Co. Photography by Charlotte Dart.

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718-488-0200 BrooklynParent 15

Cute Stuff

Alert!

Meet the winners and ﬁnalists of the 2018 NYMetroParents Cover Contest!

Daniela ››

GRAND PRI

Age: 3 Hometown: Manhattan Jaden loves to play Fortnite.

››

WINNERS

Jaden

››

Age: 14 Hometown: Suffolk Daniela’s role model is her mom because of everything she does for her and her family.

Daniela

Age: 14 Hometown: Suffolk County Daniela’s role model is her mom because of everything she does for her and her family.

e knew it wasn’t going to be easy to pick finalists in our annual contest. But it was 1,300 times harder than we even imagined— that’s how many adorable entries poured in from every corner of the New York metro area! Once we were done oohing and aahing and narrowed it down, we invited the finalists to a glam photo shoot at Big Apple Portraits in Manhattan (unfortunately one finalist couldn’t make it). It was pouring that day, but inside it was pure sunshine, thanks to the kids’ radiant smiles and way-cool outfits (thank you, Lands’ End!) Everybody rocked the runway, but in the end it was 3-year-old Jaden from Manhattan and 14-year-old Daniela from Suffolk County who won the grand prizes. Jaden and his family will celebrate the big win with a two-day stay at Woodloch Pines Resort, while Daniela will take her modeling skills to the next level with a scholarship to Barbizon Modeling and Acting Studio. Scarlett, our Fan Favorite from Queens, received a family pack of tickets to Sesame Place. Want to see more of these beautiful faces? We don’t blame you. Stay tuned—many if not all of our finalists and winners will appear on our future covers—and Sophia is featured this month!

›› Dillon

Age: 11 Hometown: Westchester County Dillon’s favorite subject in school is English. He says he’s pretty good at it and he ﬁnds it interesting.

Chazz ››

Age: 12 wn: Hometo n tta Manha ve any ha ld u o zc If Chaz would r owe it superp ability to be the hift. shape s

›› Aaliyah

Age: 4 Hometow n: Rockland County Aaliyah’s favorite th ing to do for fu n is to play upsta irs all by herself .

phia ›› So ge: 4

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E T I R O V A F N

Help Your Young Learner Thrive ›› Just as your child is one-of-a-kind, her learning style is unique, too. Here’s how to help her succeed regardless of how she processes information. By Alana Coopersmith

icture this: There’s a classroom full of students singing songs about plant cycles. In the next classroom, students are planting their own bean sprouts to observe the plant cycle in action. In still another classroom, students are creating diagrams to see plant structures and systems. While the children are learning in different ways in each of these scenarios, they’re all learning the same science curriculum. In an ideal world, all schools would be set up in a similar manner or all teachers would incorporate each teaching method in their classrooms because just as each child has a unique personality, likes, and dislikes, each child has a unique learning style. But what is a learning style exactly? It refers to a person’s preference for how she learns, processes, and retains information—“how [people] make sense of the world around them,” says Jeff Wu, representative for The Tutorverse, a tutoring company that supplements classroom learning. There are eight commonly identified learning styles: • Visual-Spatial learners do well with visual aids such as pictures, diagrams, colors, and mind maps. • Auditory-Rhythmic learners retain information by using melodies, rhythms, sounds, and recordings. • Kinesthetic-Tactile learners need hands-on learning opportunities, including building, drawing, and role-play. • Verbal-Linguistic learners crave words, reading aloud, writing, speaking, and creating mnemonic devices. • Logical-Mathematic learners prefer to learn by using logic, reasoning, and systems to explain and understand concepts. • Social-Interpersonal learners thrive by relating to and working with others. • Solitary-Intrapersonal learners prefer study and work alone. • Naturalist learners thrive by experiencing nature. 18 September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Learning styles are on a spectrum and are not mutually exclusive; there are countless style combinations. And numerous variables influence your child’s learning style, including internal factors such as personality and interests, and external factors such as how he interacts with other people and how he perceives the world. No matter what your child’s learning style is, though, there are ways to help her thrive, both in and out of the classroom.

Determine Her Learning Style

Parents have an innate sense of how their child learns just by observing and knowing him, says Mariaemma Willis, M.S., education specialist, author, and co-founder of Learning Success Institute, an educational consulting service that offers services catered to personal learning styles. Ever since your child was a baby, she has been hinting at how her brain best processes and retains information. Did he grow up building with Legos? He might learn best by doing, not seeing or hearing. Did she start making to-do lists before she even had anything to do? She may learn best by writing down and seeing information. In addition to your observations, there are plenty of resources available to further your understanding of how your child learns. Assessments like Willis’s Self-Portrait Power Traits Online Assessment will pinpoint your child’s learning strengths and preferences. Even simply Googling “learning style assessment” will result in millions of helpful resources.

Find the Right School

Alina Adams, author of Getting Into NYC Kindergarten and Getting Into NYC High-School and a columnist for NewYorkSchoolTalk.org, emphasizes the significance of making sure your child’s school is the best one for his learning needs. “Schools exist for nearly every sort of learner, but the challenge is finding this school,” she explains. For parents whose

children are struggling in the classroom, Adams recommends first figuring out the problem. Is your daughter constantly reprimanded because she can’t stay in her seat? Look for a school that allows students to move around during the day. Is your son frustrated because schoolwork is simply being explained? There are schools that allow kids to learn by doing. The most positive effect of choosing the right school for your child is she won’t get turned off to learning, Adams says. “We’re happiest when we’re learning and applying what we’ve learned towards a goal. A school that reinforces a child’s passion for learning by fitting how they best learn is a school that will set them up well for the rest of their life” she says. “Deciding you hate learning at the start of your life is as devastating as deciding you hate drinking, eating, or breathing.”

Seek Outside Help

A major issue for students of all learning styles and abilities tends to be that a teacher instructs a class of 27-32 kids, on average, in one way, at one pace. This may be fine for some students, but for many others it may not be the right style or speed. “There are only three to five students in every class that have the magic formula that traditional classrooms are set up for…the rest are shortchanged,” Willis says. Because of this, Wu advises parents seek out a tutor for their child, which will reinforce what he learned in school. Oftentimes too, the tutor will translate your child’s work in a way he can best understand it. To pick the right outside help for your child, Wu suggests two pre-emptive steps. First, understand what your personal goal is for your child, what your child’s goal is for herself, and what she is struggling with. Second, look at the education professionals’ experience and reputation. There are two standard goals for your child when working with an outside educator, Wu explains. The first is to build his confidence and get him to recognize he can do it! The second is to achieve an improvement in your child’s results. The benefit of working with a tutor 1-on-1

DGK

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is “they can really hone in on the strengths of your child and figure out new ways to explain things to really help your child,” Wu says.

Support Your Child at Home

There are steps you can take at home to help build and reinforce positive learning habits for your child. Wu, Willis, and Adams all agree that the best way to help is to engage her using the following techniques: Create and encourage real-life learning experiences. Visit one of the numerous museums in the New York metro area and explore and talk about the exhibits, or go on a hike and talk about the native species you pass. The opportunities to create real-life learning are endless. Ask him questions. Find out his likes and interests. Doing this creates the perfect opportunity to customize real-life learning to his interests. Model good educational behaviors. David Norment, an educator for 22 years and father of three, stresses the importance of not only spending positive quality time with your children, but also being an educational role model. “If you want them to read, read in front of them. If you want them to prioritize current affairs, watch the news with them,” he suggests. Establish guidelines and an environment for homework. Eliminate distractions, whatever they may be for your child, and create an environment in which she can best work. Some kids study best in short bursts with music in the background, while others prefer to get it all done in one sitting with nothing else going on in the room. Wu emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations for your child as well as creating a system that includes a schedule. To figure out which environment and schedule works best for your child, ask. If the system doesn’t work on the first try, make small tweaks until you find the right fit. Alana Coopersmith was a summer 2018 editorial intern for NYMetroParents.

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Back-to-School A. Fantis Parochial School

Pre-K3 through eighth grade, including UPK Theodore G. Tasoulas, principal 195 State St. afantis.org Since 1963, A. Fantis Parochial School of Sts. Constantine and Helen Cathedral has established a tradition of excellence in Brooklyn Heights. A. Fantis provides a modern education infused with Hellenic culture and Christian values. We promote academic excellence and strength of character in a small, nurturing environment that cultivates scholars who will mature into responsible citizens and real-world problem solvers. Our high school admissions team has helped our graduates enter their schools of choice, including Stuyvesant, Poly Prep, and Dominican Academy. We invite you to tour the facility at the next open house.

Affinity Health Plan

866-247-5678 affinityplan.org Affinity is an independent, nonprofit organization driven by the mission to help its members, their families, and their communities lead healthier lives. Over the past 32 years, Affinity has built one of the area’s largest physician networks, which includes 40,000 providers and 85 hospitals. Affinity offers a variety of programs under Medicare, Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Enriched Health on the New York State of Health Marketplace for members in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, as well as Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange counties.

April’s Dance-N-Feet

9409 and 9411 Ave. L 718-272-1813 4626 Flatlands Ave. 718-692-4809 aprilsdancingfeet.com Our classes are for ages 2-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 by one of our three convenient Brooklyn locations for more information.

Art’s House Schools of Music, Dance & Fine Art

1003 Surf Ave. 718-996-2000 artshouseschools.org arts_house1@yahoo.com Art’s House Schools’ (AHS) mission is to provide culture in the humanities for children, while providing them with the opportunity to build self-esteem, self-confidence, and

develop poise, grace, and balance. AHS provides music, dance, and art training and instruction to children ages 3-17. The School of Dance offers classes in preschool dance, ballet, tap, hip-hop, modern dance, and acro/tumbling. The School of Music offers private lessons in piano, voice, violin, guitar, and pre-school music. The School of Fine Art offers classes in painting, drawing, mixed media, and arts and crafts.

BASIS Independent Brooklyn

556 Columbia St. 929-210-1362 basisindependentbrooklyn.com alexandra.hancock@basisindependent.com BASIS Independent Brooklyn, kindergarten-10th grade, features the STEM-focused liberal arts course of study that places its sister schools at the very top of the world’s academic achievers. With master teachers and an expert learning specialist in each class, every student finds support to accomplish more than he or she ever expected. Early-bird and late-bird hours, along with dedicated transportation by bus or water taxi, make BASIS Independent Brooklyn the best choice for New York children to ignite their passion for lifelong learning.

Blue School

241 Water St., Manhattan 212-228-6341 blueschool.org Blue School is an independent school for ages 2 through eighth grade where the dynamic balance of academic mastery, creative thinking, self and social intelligence instills a lifelong passion for learning. Blue School values exploration, play, creativity, and self-awareness, family, and community connection. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry, observation, and reflection, encouraging children to become bold, creative, and compassionate innovators. The campus in lower Manhattan features thoughtfully designed classrooms, designated lab spaces for art, STEAM, science, music, and drama, as well as a gymnasium, Wonder Room, Upcycling Center, Materials Library, and outdoor terraces.

Brienza’s Academic Advantage Inc.

Several Locations in Brooklyn and Staten Island Call for a location near you! 718-232-0114 brienzas.com Brienza’s Academic Advantage offers a wide variety of academic programs for students attending kindergarten-12th grade. We specialize in reading and math tutoring along with TACHS, SHSAT, Regents, SAT, and ACT

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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. Call our office to speak to one of our educational specialists.

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. Call for fall program registration.

Brooklyn Friends School

375 Pearl St. 718-852-1029 brooklynfriends.org jmartin@brooklynfriends.org Intellect, energy, and heart characterize a Brooklyn Friends School education. A college preparatory, coed, Quaker day school of 900 students in preschool-12th grade, BFS was founded in downtown Brooklyn in 1867. It is one is one of the oldest, continuously operating, independent schools in New York City and draws students from all five boroughs. Special features include the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, a Family Center for children age 2, and top-rate academics, arts, and athletics programs with a focus on equity, inclusion, civic engagement, and service learning.

Brooklyn Music School

126 Saint Felix St. 718-638-5660 brooklynmusicschool.org contactus@brooklynmusicschool.org Brooklyn’s best after-school program, Arts Reaching Youth (ARY), offers a range of creative options with classes in music, dance, theater, and the performing arts, along with homework support and healthy snacks. Free after-school pickup from selected schools, and our location in Brooklyn’s cultural district is convenient for families with

kids in grades kindergarten-fifth from Brooklyn. Appropriate for children ages 5-12. When students participate in ARY they have the opportunity to join group music or dance classes, ensembles such as Rock Band or the orchestra, or develop musical theater skills.

Brooklyn Tennis Academy

718-745-7776 brooklyntennisacademy.com Brooklyn Tennis Academy is dedicated to assisting every tennis player, beginner and advanced alike. We are a local tennis center in Brooklyn dedicated to providing exceptional tennis lessons at an affordable price. Lessons are taught by professionally rated instructors. Indoor and outdoor sessions offered for ages 7-11 twice a week from 3:30-6pm. Six-to-one child-to-coach ratio. Beginner and intermediate levels with instructional, fun curriculum that progresses week-to-week. Students must wear sneakers. Sibling discounts available upon request. Visit brooklyntennisacademy.com for more information or call 718-745-7776.

Brooklyn Waldorf School

11 Jefferson Ave. 718-783-3270 brooklynwaldorf.org Brooklyn Waldorf School, located at 11 Jefferson Ave. in Bedford–Stuyvesant, offers a cohesive, time-tested education for children ages pre-K to eighth grade. At BWS, we believe that educating children means creating a nurturing and inspiring place for them to discover themselves and their potential. Founded in 2005, BWS was created to form a culturally, financially, and ethnically diverse school. The school is an associate member of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) and a full member of the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN).

CBE Kids-Congregation Beth Elohim

274 Garfield Place, Park Slope 718-768-3814 congregationbethelohim.org bfinkelstein@cbebk.org CBE KIDS after-school program at Congregation Beth Elohim offers children a wide variety of enrichment classes and recreational activities in a safe and caring environment. We believe each child develops at his or her own pace. All of our enrichment classes are taught by teachers or experienced freelance artists. Some of our classes include: art, video, sewing, jewelry, bit bots, Legos, instructional swim, circus arts, ballet, and theater. Our program is also available onsite at P.S. 295 and P.S. 39. Registration continued on page 22 ››

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‹‹ continued from page 20

on a trimester basis is available online at cbebk.org/afterschool.

Changing Tomorrow Academy

257 Gold St. 205-701-3333 changingtomorrowacademy.com info@changingtomorrowacademy.com We offer a Montessori-based, developmental program for children 3 months-5 years. We believe in carefully-prepared environments that support and nurture the individual needs of each child. Our director is trained by the center for Montessori Education NY, a recognized leader in Montessori education world-wide. Our teachers are Montessori trained and use authentic Montessori materials, while being supported by the Montessori-trained educational director. Montessori-based curriculum, strict safety policies, extended hours and schedule flexibility, qualified and experienced teachers, custom-catered organic meals, CPR-trained staff, and full time registered nurse.

Crossfit Kids Program - Crossfit Sunset Park

5723 2nd Ave. crossfitsunsetpark.com crossfitsunsetpark@gmail.com At CrossFit Sunset Park we are a team of coaches and athletes with two common goals, fitness and friendship. We

are committed to providing the very best training in strength and conditioning. In our children’s program the focus is on teaching proper movement and exercise, building strong bones, muscles, and character. CrossFit classes are offered for kids and teens ages 5-17. The first class is a free trial class! It is recommended that children attend at least two classes per week to enhance their learning experience and create a routine.

The Dimitrios and Georgia Kaloidis Parochial School (DGK)

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church 8502 Ridge Blvd. 718-836-8096 dgkschool.com principal@dgkschool.org The Dimitrios and Georgia Kaloidis Greek American Parochial School is committed to providing students from nursery, pre-K, and kindergarten through eighth grade, with a quality education that emphasizes academic achievement and social, emotional, and spiritual development, while preparing them for 21st-century college and career readiness.

Dutch Total Soccer - Aviator Sports

3159 Flatbush Ave. 718-758-7500 facebook.com/dtsnewyork dts-ny.com Dutch Total Soccer NY Fall Skills Classes starting again in September!

Dutch Total Soccer runs specialized indoor soccer classes all year-round for ages 18 months-15 years. We focus on players’ overall development and specific skills required in today’s game. DTS classes will assist children’s development into multi-dimensional players that are comfortable in all situations on the field. DTS classes are held on weekdays and weekends at Aviator Sports Bay Ridge and Socceroof in Brooklyn, as well as multiple locations on Long Island. Information and registration at dts-ny.com.

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 tailor a curriculum by understanding the learning abilities of the student. With ongoing guidance, 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.

Fred Ellis - Music Teacher and Music Therapist CD

fredellis.com frdde8@aol.com Fred Ellis, an NYC elementary music teacher and music therapist, debuts his CD of original songs. His objectives are to not only teach musical skills and knowledge, but to help children develop their mental, physical, communication, and social skills. The CD can be used to reach these objectives. The songs are designed to encourage socialization, love, and respect for cultural diversity. Through music, we, as people, can form one big family. Available at fredellis.com, itunes.com, cdbaby.com, and amazon.com.

Huntington Learning Center

808 Union St., Park Slope 718-230-4600 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington Learning Center is the premier tutoring and test prep provider for kindergarten-12th grade. Founded in 1977, its mission is to give every student the best education possible. The company prides itself on personalized attention and proven results with individualized programs taught by certified teachers at accredited centers. Areas of instruction include phonics, reading, writing, continued on page 24 ››

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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BrooklynParent 23

‹‹ continued from page 22 vocabulary, math, science, ACT, SAT, PSAT, high school entrance exams, and state and other standardized exams. To learn more and locate a center near you, visit huntingtonhelps.com.

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 the perfect 2-hour after-school program for kindergarten-fifth grade families who are looking for a unique, low-pressure, and fun music education experience. Our dynamic music program allows children to use our three modern music education classrooms to learn all about the keyboard, music theory, music composition, and production and to gain experience in group performance using keyboards, guitar, bass, drums, vocals, electronic, and computer-based live performance techniques. No matter what skill level your child is at, we will provide a fun, educational, and inspiring experience for them each week!

The Learnatory

St. Francis College, 180 Remsen St. 347-787-0435 thelearnatory.org dthompson@thelearnatory.org The Learnatory at St. Francis College believes all students deserve access to world-class, hands-on, experiential learning empowering them to develop skills to thrive in college, succeed in careers, and optimize entrepreneurial opportunities. That’s why our programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, Digital Arts, and Medicine (STEAM) provide engaging learning enrichment opportunities in after-school programs and on Saturdays for students in grades third–10th. Our research-supported approach develops the curiosity to explore, confidence to discover, and the character to build with excellence. We inspire. Contact us: thelearnatory.org, 347-787-0435.

Lil’ Footprints

7805 20th Ave. 718-234-5890 2033 76th St. 917-903-7838 lilfootprintsdaycare.com Lil’ Footprints is a family oriented

daycare. We have been in business for 15 years. We set goals to help your child advance as much as possible. For ages 2-5, we offer a 5-day program from 7am-6:30pm, a part-time schedule, outdoor playground, Italian lessons, yoga, and dance classes. Our staff is fully certified and prepared to meet your child’s every need. Each day will include circle time, craft time, and snack! Call for an appointment to visit our school. We can’t wait to have the pleasure of teaching your child.

Little Hands & Feet

718-680-KIDS (5437) littlehandsandfeetdaycare.com Little Hands & Feet was founded by Aneshah, who has been certified in childcare for 20 years. Our goal is to provide a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment while focusing on educational and social development. We believe each child is special and unique. Our staff is dedicated, qualified, and trained. At Little Hands & Feet be assured it is a home away from home and your child will have the best care available. Monday-Friday, 6:30am6:30pm. Pre-K for all 8:30am-2:50pm (early-care and after-care available for enrolled students).

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 Childcare Center, we provide a carefully crafted curriculum to fit various learning styles. Children are provided opportunities to explore with hands-on learning activities to enrich and inspire creativity and learning. Our philosophy centers on the idea that children should be taught how to think and not what to think. Therefore, our teaching methods are designed to create a learning environment where children have a voice and where teachers provide a safe place for children to express their thoughts, and develop innovative ideas.

Mary Louis Academy: Empowering Young Women Since 1936

176-21 Wexford Terrace, Jamaica Estates 718-297-2120 tmla.org The Mary Louis Academy has established several exciting initiatives designed to provide young women with increased opportunities to achieve academic success, develop leadership skills, set career goals, and form strategies to achieve those goals. Successful completion of a program, all of which begin September 2018, will be recognized at graduation with a special designation certificate. The academic concentrations will include: Pre-Med, Dual-Language/International Studies Program, S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), Fine Art, Music, and

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Physical Education and Wellness. For more info visit: tmla.org.

Mommybites

213 W. 35th St., suite 12W mommybites.com/newyork info@mommybites.com Mommybites is the go-to parenting community for resources, support, and education for expectant moms, new moms, and moms with young children. Mommybites offers expert parenting advice and online classes on parenting topics. In the NY area, Mommybites hosts boutique mommyand-me holiday events. Since 2006, its Nanny Board has been connecting families with mom-recommended NYC nannies. Moms can look for flexible work or help with projects on the Jobs Board. Families can find fun events on the Events Board. Mommybites also holds raffles and posts casting calls for kids and families.

Music Together

BayRidge, Bensonhurst, Sheepshead Bay, Midwood, Marine Park 718- 499-2866 musictogetherbr.com Brooklyn Heights, Dumbo, Boerum Hill 718-855-0908 musictogetherkiddiekorner.com Fort Greene, Clinton Hill, Bed Stuy tamtambrooklyn.com 718-809-4542 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 6. Free trial classes offered to sample a class before enrolling. Sessions start in September, January, April, and July.

Redeemer St. John’s Nursery School

939 83rd St. 718-833-7700 Redeemer St. John’s Nursery School has served the community for more than 40 years and is licensed by the New York City Department of Health. Our goal is to foster a child’s positive self-image, encourage curiosity, and promote cooperation by providing rich experiences and opportunities for problem solving, self-expression, and logical thinking. Thematic curriculum focuses on fun, age-appropriate activities-integrated into all subject areas. We offer a 2-day toddler program, 3-day nursery program, free UPK program, and an after-school program from 2:30-6pm through The Ridge Creative Center.

Saint Saviour Catholic Academy

701 8th Ave., Park Slope 718-768-8000 x4 saintsaviourcatholicacademy.org nlynch@sscaparkslope.org Saint Saviour Catholic Academy prepares students from nursery-eighth

grade for higher education. We welcome and support diversity of ethnicity, race, religion, socioeconomic background, and learning style. Our academy offers a balanced curriculum of rigorous academics, designed to meet the common core standards, and a vibrant arts program paired with the spiritual teachings of Catholicism. We welcome you to visit our academy! Schedule a visit with our director of admissions, Julian Parham Santana, see contact information above.

The School at the Mark Morris Dance Center

3 Lafayette Ave., Fort Green 718-624-8400 mmdg.orgmmdg.org/school info@mmdg.org Founded on the principle of choreographer Mark Morris that dance should be available to everyone, The School at the Mark Morris Dance Center offers year-round, community-based dance and music programming for children 18 months to 18 years, in a fully inclusive and nurturing environment located in the heart of the Brooklyn Cultural District. The School’s diverse and professional faculty provide progressive, non-competitive instruction with classes accompanied by live music. Though we are a non-recital school, there are opportunities for students to perform and parents to see their dancers in action.

Science, Language & Arts International School

9 Hanover Place 718–636–3836 slaschool.org Science, Language & Arts International School (SLA), grades pre-K-sixth, now offers extended-day programming: A huge selection of after-school enrichment, including Camp Half-Blood, Shakespeare Players, Kung Fu, Creative Dance, Clay Animation, and Capoeira. Immerse your child in a second language! A rich and rigorous arts-integrated STEM curriculum is the heart of our progressive French and Mandarin immersion school. Substantial scholarships available for families joining our Mandarin immersion pre-K. A few spots in French (grades pre-Ksixth) and Mandarin (pre-K) available at our new downtown Brooklyn campus. SLA is a true international community!

Smart Start Early Learning Center

8411 Fort Hamilton Parkway 718-921-1868 smartstart@verizon.net While providing a safe, warm, and nurturing environment, our staff addresses the social, emotional, and physical needs of children. Through thematic units, arts and crafts, and dramatic play, the “whole” child will flourish. Full- and part-time classes for ages 2-3, and free universal pre-K for age 4, with extended-day option. Open year-round; summer program available.

St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy

241 Prospect Park West 718-768-7629 sjwca.org St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy offers Toddler Time, pre-K3, pre-K4, and grades kindergarten-eighth. The academy is a safe, encouraging environment that challenges bright minds to discover the best in themselves, their classmates, and the world. Development of character, self-discipline, and respect are strong pillars of SJWCA’s curriculum and culture. SJWCA offers affordable after-school, Spanish, music, computer and coding, honors club, SETSS, OT, speech services, IEP, and nurse. Prime location in Windsor Terrace, nearby Prospect Park. F/G train across the street. Bus and tuition assistance is available for those who qualify.

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 Join Stepping Stones for the school year September-June to share the joys of early exploration and discovery. The children at Stepping Stones achieve successful social skills and build a good rapport with their peers and teachers. Watch your child grow through hands-on learning and small group instruction based on an independent and creative curriculum. Full-time and part-time programs for ages 2-4, as well as an after-school program are offered.

Treasure Island

347 74th St. (corner of 4th Avenue and 74th Street) 718-238-7676 silbekidz@aol.com Every child deserves a champion who connects with them and helps them to become the best that they can be. At Treasure Island you will find that our staff are champions for all children, helping each child to become a confident, motivated, engaged learner. The program promotes social competencies, active thinking, problem-solving skills, and an awareness of the diversity in our world, building a foundation of respect for differences. We serve children ages 2½-4. Hours are 7:15am6pm Monday-Friday. Meals included. Music and Zumba, and UPK are available. Maria Nogueira, director.

Ume Ume Music + Arts

319 4th Ave. (between 2nd & 3rd Street), Park Slope 718-768-0800 umeumearts.com info@umeumearts.com Our name, “ume ume,” reflects the focus of our program and the importance of bringing everyone together (ume = you + me), as we create and learn about our world through the arts. Ume Ume implements a completely original

curriculum through an arts integrated approach to learning. We develop a young child’s familiarity with music, dance, and art while encouraging experimentation, exploration, and creative thinking. We offer daily drop-in classes, day camps, private and group lessons in violin and piano, birthday parties, and our all new ‘Jump Start’ Preschool Alternative Program.

Urban Strategies Inc., Early Learn Program

Urban Strategies Early Learning 1091 Sutter Ave. (at Atkins Avenue) 1084 Elton St. (at Flatland Avenue) Urban Strategies UPK Program 255 Atkins Ave. 1405 Bushwick Ave. 718-235-6151 usheadstart1@aol.com usdaycare1@ aol.com Urban Strategies Early Learn Program provides childcare and Head Start services for children ages 2-5. Urban Strategies is a safe and supportive Early Learn Program that promotes discovery and growth. Our program combines state-of-the-art facilities, and a nationally recognized early childhood curriculum. We collaborate with families to help each child achieve pre-kindergarten readiness. Get ready to invest in your child’s future as a lifelong learner.

UrbanGlass

647 Fulton St. 718-625-3685 urbanglass.org/classes Experience the magic of glass with weekend workshops at UrbanGlass this fall! Located in the heart of Brooklyn, our youth and all ages workshops offer a unique opportunity for learning across generations in techniques like glassblowing, neon, bead making, and fusing. Our educational programming is designed to introduce students to this unique material and expand the breadth and depth of their art making activities. Scholarships are available! Please contact karina@urbanglass.org to inquire about classes and financial aid, or for assistance with registration.

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE Celebrating 25 Years!

April’s Da Dan Dance-N-Feet nce-N-Fee ce-N-Feett Tap • Ballet • Jazz • Pointe • Gymnastics Karate • Praise • Modern African • Caribbean • Private Lessons Hip-Hop • Competition Classes • Lyrical Classes for Ages 2 – Adult / Boys Classes Available!

TAKE TWO CLASSES, GET THE THIRD ONE FOR HALF PRICE!

9409 Ave L.

9411 Ave L.

718-272-1813

(bet. E94th & E95th St.) (bet. E94th & E95th St.)

(bet. Schenectady & E46th St.)

718-692-4809

** Sibling Discounts And Multiple Class Discounts **

Art’s House Schools of Music, Dance and Fine Arts

World Of Wonders Daycare

7219 New Utrecht Ave. 718-621-4216 6705 13th Ave. worldofwondersdaycare.com wrldofwonders@aol.com World of Wonders Early Childcare Center is a premier program that provides a safe and nurturing environment. Our developmentally appropriate curriculum helps foster each child’s cognitive, emotional, physical, and social development through free play, dramatic play, computers, music and movement, and outdoor play. Our center is dedicated to providing high quality programs for toddlers and preschoolers ages 2-5. We strive to create a stimulating environment where every child is encouraged to reach his or her own potential. Watch for the grand opening of our new location at 6705 13th Ave.

4626 Flatlands Ave.

Music, Dance & Fine Art Lessons for All Ages

Tired of running between activities?

Save valuable hours each month by scheduling music, dance and art lessons for your children at the same time.

Private Music Lessons

Small Dance Classes (ages 3-17)

Piano Voice Guitar Violin Preschool Music

Pre-School Dance Ballet Tap Modern/ Hip-Hop Acro/Tumbling

Art Classes

Arts & Crafts Drawing Painting Photography

Visit our website for Helpful Free Parent Guides Art’s House Schools 1003 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Call us today to see how we can help you save time in your busy schedule.

718-996-2000 | www.ahsny.org

BrooklynParent 25

Education Planner Schools

Type Parochial Schools

afantis.org

Visit website

dgkschool.com

718-836-8096

tmla.org

718-297-2120

saintsaviourcatholicacademy.org

718-768-8000 x4

St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy

sjwca.org

718-768-7629

Changing Tomorrow Academy

changingtomorrowacademy.com

205-701-3333

lilfootprintsdaycare.com

Visit website

littlehandsandfeetdaycare.com

718-680-KIDS (5437)

Little Scholars Learning Center

littlescholarsnyc.com

718-210-3233

Music Together

musictogetherbr.com

718- 499-2866

A. Fantis Parochial School The Dimitrios and Georgia Kaloidis Parochial School (DGK) Mary Louis Academy: Empowering Young Women Since 1936 Saint Saviour Catholic Academy

Nursery & Preschools

Lil’ Footprints Little Hands & Feet

Redeemer St. John’s Nursery School

718-833-7700

Smart Start Early Learning Center

718-921-1868

Stepping Stones Nursery School

Private Schools

718-238-7676

Urban Strategies Inc., Early Learn Program

718-235-6151

World Of Wonders Daycare

worldofwondersdaycare.com

718-621-4216

BASIS Independent Brooklyn

basisindependentbrooklyn.com

929-210-1362

blueschool.org

212-228-6341

Brooklyn Friends School

brooklynfriends.org

718-852-1029

Brooklyn Waldorf School

brooklynwaldorf.org

718-783-3270

CBE Kids-Congregation Beth Elohim

congregationbethelohim.org

718-768-3814

Changing Tomorrow Academy

changingtomorrowacademy.com

205-701-3333

slaschool.org

718–636–3836

huntingtonhelps.com

718-230-4600

Science, Language & Arts International School Huntington Learning Center Urban Strategies Inc., Early Learn Program 26

718-630-1000

Treasure Island

Blue School

Special Education

steppingstones86.com

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

718-235-6151

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

Brooklyn Tennis Academy Located at McKinley Park 75th St. & Fort Hamilton Pkwy. » We offer Pee Wee Programs Ages 4-6 yrs. » Junior Programs, Ages 7-14 yrs. » Adult Beginner Clinics and Intermediate Adult Programs » All Programs are taught by Top Certiﬁed Professionals and we have absolutely the Best Prices in NYC! » We Offer programs on both weekdays & weekends

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 !

718.576.3514

94 LUQUER ST. BROOKLYN, NY 11231

keyl ab.nyc

DUTCH TOTAL SOCCER FALL SKILLS CLASS PROGRAM · · · · · · ·

CLASSES START SEPT 8! Registration: www.dts-ny.com Parent & Me 18 months-3 years Stepping into soccer ages 3-4 Junior classes ages 5-6 & 7-8 Skills & drills sessions ages 9-12 Advanced: Elite Invitational, Messi, Scoring & Finishing Adult Soccer Training & Scrimmages Weekdays & weekends at Aviator Sports, Brooklyn

3159 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11234 • 718-758-7500 NYdirector@dutchtotalsoccer.com | www.dts-ny.com | www.facebook.com/dtsnewyork

647 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217

YOUTH WORKSHOPS & SCHOLARSHIPS: GLASSBLOWING NEON BEADMAKING FUSING AND MORE... www.urbanglass.org

FALL TENNIS SPECIAL at McKinley Park Saturday • September 22nd for both Juniors and Adults

5 lessons for $100 If 2 people join you get a discount You don't need to spend a fortune to learn this great game!

Call 718-745-7776 BrooklynTennisAcademy.com

CROSSFIT KIDS PROGRAM CROSSFIT SUNSET PARK

5723 2nd Avenue • Brooklyn, NY 11220 www.crossfitsunsetpark.com • crossfitsunsetpark@gmail.com At CrossFit Sunset Park we are a team of coaches and athletes with two common goals, fitness and friendship. We are committed to providing you with the very best training in strength and conditioning. In our children’s program the focus is on teaching proper movement and exercise, building strong bones, muscles and character. Movements such as running, jumping, squatting, pulling ourselves up, picking ourselves up off the floor and handling weighted objects, are natural, and things we should be able to do without injury. Unfortunately for many of us in our society because of life demands we have filled our days with sedentary and minimally active jobs. Our children spend most of their days in school sitting for many hours. Although, of course, education is essential, so is movement. Movement is vital to our healthy existence, proper physical development, and better cognitive ability. We will provide our community with CrossFit classes for kids and teens (ages 5 to 17). The classes are divided into three different age groups, years 5 to 9; years 10 to 12; and years 13 to 17.

The first class is a FREE trial class It is strongly recommended that children attend at least two classes per week as this will enhance their learning experience and create a routine for children to follow. The program for the classes will consist of training specific skills on a weekly basis.

You are encouraged to go onto our website for more information about our facility and our coaches. You are also encouraged to go onto the CrossFit main site: www.crossfit.com to learn more about CrossFit and CrossFit Kids programs.

BrooklynParent 27

After-School Planner Classes & Programs

Activity Academic Enrichment

A. Fantis Parochial School

afantis.org

Visit Website

brienzas.com

718-232-0114

congregationbethelohim.org

718-768-3814

myeyelevel.com

Visit Website

huntingtonhelps.com

718-230-4600

thelearnatory.org

347-787-0435

artshouseschools.org

718-996-2000

congregationbethelohim.org

718-768-3814

UrbanGlass

urbanglass.org/classes

718-625-3685

April’s Dance-N-Feet

aprilsdancingfeet.com

Visit Website

Art’s House Schools of Music, Dance & Fine Art

artshouseschools.org

718-996-2000

bcprepcenter.org

718-951-4111

brooklynmusicschool.org

718-638-5660

joffreyballetschool.com

888-438-3808

mmdg.org/school

718-624-8400

afantis.org

Visit Website

artshouseschools.org

718-996-2000

bcprepcenter.org

718-951-4111

brooklynmusicschool.org

718-638-5660

keylab.nyc

718-576-3514

Brienza’s Academic Advantage Inc. CBE Kids-Congregation Beth Elohim Eye Level Brooklyn Huntington Learning Center The Learnatory Art

Art’s House Schools of Music, Dance & Fine Art CBE Kids-Congregation Beth Elohim

Dance

Brooklyn College Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts Brooklyn Music School Joffrey Ballet School The School at the Mark Morris Dance Center Foreign Language

A. Fantis Parochial School

Music

Art’s House Schools of Music, Dance & Fine Art Brooklyn College Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts Brooklyn Music School Keylab

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

After-School Planner Classes & Programs

Activity Sports

CBE Kids-Congregation Beth Elohim

congregationbethelohim.org

718-768-3814

crossfitsunsetpark.com

Visit Website

Dutch Total Soccer - Aviator Sports

dts-ny.com

718-758-7500

A. Fantis Parochial School

afantis.org

Visit Website

The Learnatory

thelearnatory.org

347-787-0435

Brooklyn College Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts

bcprepcenter.org

718-951-4111

congregationbethelohim.org

718-768-3814

Crossfit Kids Program Crossfit Sunset Park

STEM

Theater

CBE Kids-Congregation Beth Elohim

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

SMART START

Early Childhood Center, Inc. 8411 Fort Hamilton Pkwy. Brooklyn, NY 11209 718-921-1868 Fax-718-921-6713

Early Childcare Center 7215-7219 New Utrecht Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11228 | 718-621-4216

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

Watch for Our GRAND OPENING of World of Wonders Early Childcare Center II 6705-13th Ave.

REGISTERING NOW FOR BOTH LOCATIONS! 2yr old, 3yr old, & 4yr old programs.

Full and Part Time Programs | Board of Education Certified Teachers Licensed by N.Y.C. Department of Health | We accept Vouchers Our center is a premier program that provides a safe and nurturing environment. Our developmentally appropriate curriculum helps foster each child‛s cognitive, emotional, physical and social development through:

•Free Play •Dramatic Play •Arts •Crafts •Computers •Music and Movement •Outdoor Play

WWW.WORLDOFWONDERSDAYCARE.COM WRLDOFWONDERS@AOL.COM

BrooklynParent 29

things to do

outbound

Family Fun a Ride Away

The south terrace of the Westbury house has double doors that lead into the ballroom.

Old Westbury Gardens

Courtesy Pequot Museum and Research Center

The Old Westbury Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can visit the Charles II-style mansion on 200 acres of formal gardens, ponds, lakes, and landscaped grounds. Guided tours of Westbury House and Gardens, in-depth tours of the gardens, museum exhibits, family programs, outdoor concerts, slide lectures, workshops, gardening classes, and car shows are just some of the various fun activities Old Westbury Gardens has to offer. Visit It: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury; 516-333-0048; oldwestburygardens.org

Courtesy Nassau County NY

Christopher Morley Park features a recently renovated playground, three baseball fields (softball and hardball, including Little League) volleyball courts, and more.

Christopher Morley Park

Christopher Morley Park is a playground for all families with something every age will enjoy. Just north of the Long Island Expressway, this park is a haven filled with beautiful hiking trails and recreational activities, including 10 indoor tennis courts, four handball courts, four basketball courts, a recently renovated playground, golf, and ice-skating and swimming, weather permitting. The Christopher Morley “Knothole” is a one-room wooden cabin that visitors can occasionally explore during public programs. Visit It: Roslyn-North Hills, Searingtown Road, north of Long Island Expressway; 516-571-8113; nassaucountyny.gov

o and bey nd! Courtesy Vanderbilt Mansion

Courtesy Old Westbury Gardens

In Nassau County, NY…

Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center is tribally owned and operated.

The mansion was deeded to Suffolk County and opened as a museum in 1950.

Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center

Vanderbilt Mansion, Museum, and Planetarium

This museum highlights Native American culture through 85,000 square feet of permanent indoor exhibitions as well as special exhibits. Among the permanent exhibits are life-size dioramas, films, and interactive computer games such as Glacial Crevasse & A World of Ice, Arrival of the People, Life in a Cold Climate, The Changing Environment, Pequot Village, and Life of the Reservation. The Pequot Museum aims to transform how indigenous culture and peoples are represented. Visit It: 110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT; 800-411-9671; pequotmuseum.org

Take a tour of William K. Vanderbilt II’s 24-room, Spanish Revival mansion and learn the history of the Vanderbilt family. The rooms are filled with beautiful antiques, art, and family photos and will take you back in time to the privileged life on Long Island’s Gold Coast from the Jazz Age through the end of World War II. The museum also offers a newly renovated planetarium, one of the most advanced in the United States. Visit It: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport; 631-854-5579; vanderbiltmuseum.org

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

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Turn the page for details on World Brooklyn. (No. 6 on our list).

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nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: KAREN LO bkcal@davlermedia.com

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR

Editor’s Hot Tickets

Once Upon a Time

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

Crafty Kids, Browse & Buy

Smarty Pants, Showtime

Movers & Shakers

Great Outdoors

Mini Musicians, Fun Fairs & Festivals, Animal Lovers

Special Needs, Holiday Fun!

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!

NYC Unicycle Festival FREE

WHEN: Sept. 1-2, Saturday, Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 and 10 South St., Manhattan, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: A festival for recreational riders, world-class performers, mountain and off-road unicycle enthusiasts, mono-wheel vehicle inventors, and circus enthusiasts! WHY WE LOVE IT: You can try unicycling, or watch others play unicycle sports like basketball, hockey, and even sumo wrestling! WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Dinosaurs Rock

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 2, 12-3pm WHERE: Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: See and touch real, life-size, museum-quality dinosaurs and fossil specimens, like a mastodon leg, T-Rex skull, dinosaur egg, coprolite, and a dinosaur footprint! WHY WE LOVE IT: Is there a future paleontologist in your family? Find out at this blast from the past where you can get your hands on some real dinosaur relics. WANT TO GO? $10; $6 children ages 3-14; free for children 2 and younger. 718-442-3101. statenislandzoo.org.

Brooklyn Book Festival Children’s Day FREE

3 32

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 15, 10am-4pm WHERE: MetroTech Commons, MetroTech Walk and Lawrence St., Downtown Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a day-long celebration of books and authors that

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

1 features special art projects, workshops, costumed characters, and musical performances. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will leave the festival with plenty to read! WANT TO GO? 718-802-3830. brooklynbookfestival.org.

Halloween Harvest Festival

WHEN: Sept. 29- Oct. 28, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-8pm WHERE: Luna Park, 1000 Surf Ave., Coney Island AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Enjoy nonstop rides, candy, and face painting, pumpkin picking and decorating, caricatures, storytelling, pirate entertainment, Argghs and Crafts, a pirate puppet show, magic shows, and Tilly’s Tractor Race! WHY WE LOVE IT: Is it too soon to think about Halloween? No way! Spend a weekend at Luna Park and welcome the changing of the seasons with some pirate-themed mischief. WANT TO GO? $41; $29 children shorter than 48 inches; prices may be higher on-site. 718-373-5862. lunaparknyc.com.

Wafels & Dinges Factory Tour

WHEN: June 12- Nov. 9, Fridays, 10am WHERE: Wafels & Dinges Headquarters, 264 Butler St., Gowanus AGES: All WHAT: Take a tour inside the Royal Dinges Factory, the commissary, production space, and headquarters. WHY WE LOVE IT: Put your hands in some waffel dough, and cook your own fresh-made wafel in their custom-made irons! WANT TO GO? $25; $12.50 children ages 5-11; free for children younger than 5. 347-903-8687. dinges.nyc.

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

nymetroparents.com/register ››

World Brooklyn

WHEN: Aug. 14- Dec. 31, 10am-5pm Visit website for schedule. WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids take on the roles of shopkeeper, baker, grocer, shopper, designer, performer, and builder as they gain an understanding of the cooperative roles that help communities thrive. WHY WE LOVE IT: This exhibit features material objects and stores that belong to the real-life residents of Brooklyn’s many diverse neighborhoods. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Exhibition: Impractical Jokers: Homecoming

WHEN: July 12-March 17, Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Staten Island Museum at Snug Harbor, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: See original costumes, props, and art, and learn about behind-the-scenes production. WHY WE LOVE IT: This exhibit features plenty of interactive surprises that will make visitors feel like they’re part of the show itself! WANT TO GO? $8; $5 seniors and students with ID; $2 children ages 2-12. 718-727-1135. StatenIslandMuseum.org.

ColorLab

WHEN: May 24-24, Thursday, 2-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Learn about contemporary Afrofuturism through 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 to create fascinating artwork. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Donald Zucker and Barbara Hrbek Zucker Ocean Wonders: Sharks!

WHEN: June 30-30, daily, 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Aquarium, 602 Surf Ave., Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: See the more than 115 species, including sand tiger sharks, sandbar sharks, and loggerhead sea turtles, that live in this state-of-the-art exhibit. WHY WE LOVE IT: This awe-inspiring shark exhibit is a great complement to the upcoming Shark Week on the Discovery Channel! WANT TO GO? $12; free for children 2 and younger. 718-265-3474. nyaquarium.com.

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 six no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. The School at the Mark Morris Dance Center Open House 2018 FREE WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 9am-3pm WHERE: Mark Morris Dance Center, 3 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Sample music and world dance classes, meet faculty, and see performances. WANT TO GO? 718-624-8400. mmdg.org/openhouse.

Children’s Gardening Workshop: Critters of the Garden FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 9, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: North Pacific Playground, 473 Pacific St., Boerum Hill AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Children will meet worms, snails, spiders, and stick insects while learning about their habitat and planting a seedling to take home. WANT TO GO? 212-639-9675. nycgovparks.org.

Annual Family Emergency Preparedness Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 29, 12-5pm WHERE: Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Families will have the chance to meet emergency responders and check out their vehicles and equipment. Meet “Ready Girl” and receive a free comic book. WANT TO GO? 718-273-2060. sichildrensmuseum.org.

Immigrants: The Roots of Innovation

WHEN: March 10- Sept. 30, Saturdays, 12-3pm FREE WHERE: Conference House, Hylan Boulevard and Satterlee Street, Staten Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This exhibit highlights narratives of maritime navigation pioneers, so people today can understand how our ancestors learned how to travel vast oceans. WANT TO GO? 718-869-6327. conferencehouse.org.

Summer Open House FREE

WHEN: June 30- Sept. 30, 12-3pm Visit website for schedule. WHERE: H.H. Biddle House, 70 Satterlee St., Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Explore the property’s adjacent terracotta garden, the beachfront, historical items, nature inspired artwork, and grounds of this NYC historic treasure. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org. ››

BrooklynParent 33

Tiny Tot Theater

WHEN: Sept. 25- Dec. 25, 10:45-11:45 am, Wednesdays-Fridays WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Join the world of puppets and stories and make puppets. WANT TO GO? $36 per child; free for adults. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark/classes.

Totally Tots

WHEN: Jan. 3- 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; free for children younger than 1. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

Transit Tots

CRAFTY KIDS

‘Kazoo’ Magazine Issue #10 Launch Party and Workshop FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 11:30am; 1:30pm at PLG Location WHERE: Greenlight Bookstore, 686 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: 5-12 WHAT: For the launch of “The Action Issue,” featuring Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Liza Donnelly, and Leah Chase—Kazoo hosts a special magazine making workshop at Greenlight’s story time. WANT TO GO? 718-246-0200. greenlightbookstore.com.

September Drop-In Play

WHEN: Sept. 1-30, Weekends WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: Newborn-5 WHAT: Join in the drop-in art projects, play opportunities, explore art making materials, and learn how to make new friends in a communal play space. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Children’s Museum of the Arts Free Island Outpost FREE

WHEN: May 26- Oct. 31, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park and 10 South St., Manhattan, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Art workshops and art-viewing experiences, using various mediums. WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Little Artists

WHEN: Sept. 27- Dec. 20, 9:30-10:30am, Wednesdays-Fridays WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Explore art in the SPARK studio, experiment with materials, discover hidden objects on scavenger hunt challenges, and create masterworks. WANT TO GO? $36 per child; free for adults. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark/classes.

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Jan. 1- Dec. 31, Thursdays, 10:15-11am WHERE: New York Transit Museum, 99 Schermerhorn St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: Newborn-5 WHAT: Young train enthusiasts explore themes like animals underground, the people and buildings of New York City, and the city’s subways and buses. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 2-17. 718-694-1600. nytransitmuseum.org.

BROWSE & BUY The ShopUp NYC FREE

WHEN: Sept. 16-17, Sunday, 12-6pm; Monday, 10am-5pm WHERE: 501 Union, 501 Union St., Gowanus AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy one-of-a-kind independent boutiques and sweet activities. WANT TO GO? 831-818-2587. babyccinokids.com/shopup/.

44th Annual Atlantic Antic Street Fair FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 23, 12-6pm WHERE: Atlantic Avenue, between 4th Ave. and Hicks St., Boerum Hill AGES: All WHAT: Try international delicacies, unique merchandise with more than 500 vendors, one hundred local merchants, 15 stages, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-875-8993. atlanticave.org.

Smorgasburg FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 7: Sundays, 11am-6pm WHERE: Prospect Park, Breeze Hill, Ocean and Parkside avenues, Prospect Lefferts Garden AGES: All WHAT: Take in sun and enjoy delicious food from more than 100 local vendors. WANT TO GO? 718-928-6603. smorgasburg.com.

Farmer’s Market FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 3: Saturdays, 11am-3pm WHERE: Wyckoff House Museum, 5816 Clarendon Road, East Flatbush AGES: All WHAT: Stop and grab your veggies, fruits, and local crafts at affordable prices. WANT TO GO? 718-629-5400. wyckoffmuseum.org.

Farmer’s Market FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Saturdays, 8am-4pm WHERE: Grand Army Plaza at Prospect Park West, Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy farm fresh products and cooking demonstrations. WANT TO GO? 718-965-8945. prospectpark.org.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Yoga for Toddlers FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 6, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library - Leonard Library, 81 Devoe St., Williamsburg AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Toddlers can explore yoga under the supervision of an expert instructor. WANT TO GO? 718-486-6006. bklynlibrary.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC’s 14th Annual Walk for the Kids

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 15, 7:30AM - 2:00PM WHERE: The Neathermead, 95 Prospect Park West, Prospect Lefferts Garden AGES: All WHAT: A 5K walk and a picnic as part of Nickelodeon’s Worldwide Day of Play. WANT TO GO? $20; free for children 18 and younger. 212-686-2042. walkforthekids.org.

Kayaking FREE

WHEN: May 31- Sept. 30, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-2pm; Thursday, 5:30-6:45pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse at Pier 2, Furman and Clark streets, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: All levels are welcome and no experience is necessary to kayak. WANT TO GO? 718-802-0603. brooklynbridgepark.org.

L ER OO -OV LS H K SC L OO R- WA H TE N! L SC F A PE CA O W LO NOROM F

After-school enrichment in STEM, arts, language! SLA is an independent school focused on hands-on science, arts, and math in a language immersion environment. After-school is open to all students ages 2–12. Register for after-school classes: www.slaschool.org

Summertime Skating Rink

WHEN: May 26- Oct. 31, Monday-Thursday, 10am-5pm; Friday, 10am-9pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Mel’s Rink Governors Island, Ferries leave from Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and 10 South St., Manhattan, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: New Yorkers can skate outdoors during the summer months on an ice rink made from a synthetic material designed for metal ice-skates. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Pigeonholed Theater Company’s Acting Classes

WHEN: Sept. 12- Nov. 14, 3:45- 4:40pm and 4:45-5:45pm, Wednesdays WHERE: Chaos Studios, 247 Water St., Suite 202, DUMBO AGES: 5-17 WHAT: The classes incorporate improv, scene study, theater games, and more. The earlier class is for ages 5-8 and the later class is for ages 9-17. WANT TO GO? $30. 914-341-2959. pigeonholedtheater.org/classes-for-kids. ››

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FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS 39th Annual Richmond County Fair

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MUSICIANS RRPH Presents: Old Skool Hip Hop Dance Party for Kids

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 2, 12pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Ave., Williamsburg AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Enjoy games, stories, and classic hip-hop tracks. WANT TO GO? $12. 718-963-3369. therockandrollplayhouse.com/.

Live at the Archway 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: Check out Dumbo’s signature series, featuring musical performances, a pop-up gallery, and interactive art experience. WANT TO GO? 718-237-8700. dumbo.is.

Mozart for Munchkins Presents Our Musical Wilderness

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 4pm WHERE: Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet, 29 Jay St., Dumbo AGES: All WHAT: Listen to classics and sing-along favorites and try instruments WANT TO GO? $30; free for children younger than 12. 570-861-6081. mozartformunchkins.com/events.

Yo Re Mi Music and Movement

WHEN: Sept. 28- Dec. 21, 10:45-11:45am, Wednesdays-Fridays WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Through movement and live music, children explore culture WANT TO GO? $36 per child; free for adults. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark/classes.

Lavender Blues Music & Movement

WHEN: May 1- 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. WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.

The Buttons Weekend Sing-Along

WHEN: March 17-17, Saturdays, 11-11:45am WHERE: Edamama Cute Cuts & More, 568 Union Ave., Unit B, Williamsburg AGES: Newborn-5 WHAT: This sing-along features tunes to get everyone singing and dancing. WANT TO GO? $15; $5 per additional child. 718-388-3663. edamama.com.

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday-Monday, Sept. 1-3, 11am-6pm, WHERE: Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave., Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Check out circus performers, crafts and rides for the kids, live music, food, and contests demonstrating all the fairground favorites! WANT TO GO? $16; $11 children taller than 30 inches; free for children 30 inches and shorter. 718-351-1611. historicrichmondtown.org.

BRIC House 40th Birthday Party FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 15, 12-5pm WHERE: BRIC House, 647 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: An afternoon of celebration featuring art and live performances WANT TO GO? 718-683-5600. bricartsmedia.org.

World Maker Faire New York

WHEN: Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 22-23, 10am-6pm, WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: A family festival to make, learn, craft, recycle, build, and be inspired by celebrating arts, engineering, food, music, and technology. WHY WE LOVE IT: A special way to create some great family fun. WANT TO GO? Single Day Passes for Adult: advance $40, at door $50; youth and students: advance $25, at door $30; Weekend Passes Adult: advance $70, at door $80; Youth & Students advance $40, at door $50. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

West Indian American Day Junior Carnival Parade

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 1, 9am-4pm WHERE: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: Featuring live performances and band competitions. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-638-5000.

ANIMAL LOVERS

Keeper for a Day

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 2-3:30pm WHERE: New York Aquarium, 602 Surf Ave., Coney Island AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn what it’s like to care for the mammals of the aquarium. WANT TO GO? $60. 718-265-3474. nyaquarium.com.

Winged Jewels of the Forest: Images of Birds in the Surrounding Hudson Valley WHEN: Aug. 4- Oct. 28, 9:30am-5pm Monday-Friday; 10am-6pm Saturday-Sunday WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Photographs of birds from Rockefeller State Park Preserve WANT TO GO? $16, $13 children, students, and senior citizens. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

NYC Audubon Summer Residence FREE

WHEN: May 5- Oct. 28, Saturday-Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park and 10 South St., Manhattan, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Conservation artwork and free guided birdwalks. WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Classic Mew-vie Night

WHEN: April 20- Dec. 31, Third Friday of the month, 7:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Cat Cafe, 149 Atlantic Ave., Cobble Hill AGES: All WHAT: Watch a classic movie along with the cats of the Brooklyn Cat Cafe as they nap soundly in your lap and purr. WANT TO GO? $20. 347-946-2286. catcafebk.com.

Pediatric Immediate Care, PLLC Pediatric Urgent Care

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Touch Tank

WHEN: June 1- Dec. 31, Saturday-Sunday, 12:30-1pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Meet and touch real, live sea creatures like starfish and sea urchins. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

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Live Animal Adventure

WHEN: July 2- Dec. 31, Saturday-Sunday, 4:15pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join a museum educator to learn about and touch an animal from the museum’s living collection. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME Back To School ‘Baby Sitters Club’ Party with Gale Galligan

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 3pm WHERE: Stories Bookshop + Storytelling Lab, 458 Bergen St., Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Kristy’s Big Day with a reading, live drawing demo, book signing, rafﬂe, and a copy of Kristy’s Big Day! WANT TO GO? $15 admits 2 guests. 718-369-1167. storiesbk.com.

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Francie Latour Presents ‘Auntie Luce’s Talking Paintings’ FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 11:30am; 1:30pm at PLG Location WHERE: Greenlight Bookstore, 686 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Francie Latour presents her book with an interactive reading along with a coloring activity focused on Haitian heroes. WANT TO GO? 718-246-0200. greenlightbookstore.com.

Katie Yamasaki Presents ‘When the Cousins Came’ FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 29, 11:30am; 1:30pm at PLG Location WHERE: Greenlight Bookstore, 686 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: Newborn-5 WHAT: Yamasaki presents her book with an interactive reading and activities. WANT TO GO? 718-246-0200. greenlightbookstore.com.

Staff Story Time FREE

WHEN: Sept. 1-30, Saturdays and Sundays11:30am WHERE: Greenlight Bookstore PLG, 632 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Lefferts Garden AGES: Newborn-5 WHAT: Staff choose their favorite read-alouds to share with booklovers! WANT TO GO? 718-246-0200. greenlightbookstore.com.

Saturday Author Story Time FREE

WHEN: March 17-17, Saturdays, 11:30am and 1:30pm WHERE: Greenlight Bookstore, 686 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Authors and illustrators of picture books visit on Saturdays to read from their new books. WANT TO GO? 718-246-0200. greenlightbookstore.com. ››

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AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children will learn about artifacts from the museum’s collection through tactical investigation and relating to their own lives. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Escher: The Exhibition and Experience

SMARTY PANTS Native Voices: New England Tribal Families Exhibition

WHEN: June 30- Sept. 2, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, 10am-4:30pm; Thursday, 10am-5:30pm; Saturday, Sunday, 10am-5:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Join us for this opportunity to learn about the history and life of indigenous communities through oral history storytelling, large photo murals, hands-on activities, and collection objects. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Spanish at Spark with Espenate!

WHEN: June 8-Feb. 3, Monday-Wednesday and Friday-Sunday, 10am7pm; Thursday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Industry City, 34 34th St., Building 6, Sunset Park AGES: All WHAT: Experience the work of M.C. Escher in this exhibition featuring more than 200 original works. WANT TO GO? $20; $13 children ages 12-17; $6 children ages 5-11. eschernyc.com.

Friday/Saturday Drop-In

WHEN: March 16- Dec. 31, Friday-Saturday, 6:30-9:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Game Lab, 310 7th Ave., Park Slope AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Drop in for Dungeons and Dragons and other role-playing games that your kids and teens will love. WANT TO GO? $48. 718-788-1122. brooklyngamelab.com.

SHOW TIME!

Summer Tween Movie - ‘Spiderwick Chronicles’ FREE

WHEN: Sept. 26- Dec. 19, 9:30-10:30am, Visit website for schedule. WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Through game-based interactions children build cognitive, fine-gross motor, social, and artistic skills, and learn Spanish. WANT TO GO? $36 per child; free for adults. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 5, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library - Leonard Library, 81 Devoe St., Williamsburg AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Jared, Simon, and Mallory Grace move into a secluded estate, and notice strange things happening. WANT TO GO? 718-486-6006. bklynlibrary.org.

French at Spark with ABC Languages!

Femmelody Chamber Music Festival

WHEN: Sept. 26- Dec. 19, 10:45-11:45am, Visit website for schedule. WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Through song, theatrical play, and movement, children become familiar with French vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. WANT TO GO? $36 per child; free for adults. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark/classes.

Baby Sign Language

WHEN: Sept. 25- Dec. 25, 9:45-10:45am, Visit website for schedule. WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Students will learn the basics of the language, including numbers, colors, greetings, and family terms through a variety of songs and games. WANT TO GO? $36 per child; free for adults. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark/classes.

Waterfront Exhibition

WHEN: March 1- Dec. 31, Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Historical Society Dumbo, 55 Water St., Dumbo AGES: All WHAT: Waterfront is an exhibition and multimedia experience that presents stories of workers, artists, industries, activists, families, neighborhoods, and ecosystems. WANT TO GO? $10; $6 seniors and teachers; free for members and students. 917-775-4636. brooklynhistory.org/dumbo.

Holding History

WHEN: March 5- Dec. 31, Sundays, 11am WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights 38

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 9, 2pm WHERE: Park Church Co-op, 129 Russell St., Greenpoint AGES: All WHAT: This concert will explore women’s contributions to popular music styles. WANT TO GO? $20; $10 student. 856-701-7265. withfriends.co/event/413364/femmelody_chamber_music_festival.

Movies Under the Stars: ‘Despicable Me 3’ FREE

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 14, 7:15-9pm WHERE: Owl’s Head Park, 68th Street and Colonial Road, Sunset Park AGES: All WHAT: Gru meets his long-lost twin brother, Dru, who wants to team up with him for one last criminal heist. WANT TO GO? 718-748-5950. nycgovparks.org.

RRPH Presents: The Music of Simon & Garfunkel for Kids

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 23, 12pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Ave., Williamsburg AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This show introduces a new generation of listeners to the singing duo with hits like “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “America.” WANT TO GO? $12. 718-963-3369. therockandrollplayhouse.com/.

‘The Snow Queen’ and ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’

WHEN: Sept. 1- Dec. 16, Saturday-Sunday, 12:30 and 2:30pm WHERE: Puppetworks, 338 6th Ave., Park Slope AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Hans Christian Anderson’s classic fairy tales adapted for marionettes WANT TO GO? $11; $10 children. 718-965-3391. puppetworks.org.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Outdoor Skills: Shelter Building FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 1, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Blue Heron Nature Center (in Blue Heron Park), 222 Poillon Ave., Staten Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This program will teach participants about the basics of shelter building in wilderness situations. WANT TO GO? 212-306-1311. nycgovparks.org.

Freshwater Fishing FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 2, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Clove Lakes Park, 1150 Clove Road, Staten Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about the ethics of fishing and the ecology of NYC WANT TO GO? 718-967-3542. nycgovparks.org.

Nature Discovery: Pond Life FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 16, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Green-Wood Cemetery, 500 25th St., Sunset Park AGES: All WHAT: Use dip nets to comb the pond and learn all about pond species WANT TO GO? 718-768-7300. green-wood.com.

Gardening with Hester FREE

WHEN: Aug. 20- Sept. 24, Mondays, 10:15-11am WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library - Park Slope Branch, 431 6th Ave., Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: Learn about gardening in urban and small spaces. WANT TO GO? 718-832-1853. bklynlibrary.org/locations/park-slope.

Weekday Nature Exploration FREE

WHEN: May 1- 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 for free nature education programs. WANT TO GO? 718-421-2021. nycgovparks.org.

Coastal Cleanup

WHEN: June 8- Oct. 3, see website for dates, 10am-12pm WHERE: Pier 1, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Old Fulton Street, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Help remove trash from Pier 1 salt marshes and beaches. WANT TO GO? 718-683-5600. brooklynbridgepark.org.

Governors Island Open Season

WHEN: May 1- Oct. 31, Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park and 10 South St., Manhattan, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy lush landscapes, concerts, and free programming. WANT TO GO? $3; free for children younger than 13; free for all passengers Saturday-Sunday until 11:30am. 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Wild Waterfront

WHEN: Sept. 28- Dec. 28, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Take a close look at some of the plants and animals in Brooklyn. WANT TO GO? $36 per child; free for adults. 9177754636. brooklynkids.org/spark/classes. ››

Brooklyn Waldorf School:

Education That Nourishes The Human Spirit

Provides an education that concentrates on the whole being of its students through: • The Integration of Critical Thinking • Emotional Intelligence • Arts, Math and Sciences

Brooklyn Waldorf School, located in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bedford–Stuyvesant, provides a broad and comprehensive curriculum. Guided by the principles of Rudolf Steiner, BWS fosters independent thinkers and collaborators. BWS embraces subject integration beyond math and science. We believe that a well-rounded education pushes students to engage in the act of learning beyond textbooks.

Brooklyn Waldorf School, located at 11 Jefferson Avenue in Brooklyn, NY Tel: (718) 783–3270 | www.brooklynwaldof.org| info@brooklynwaldorf.org BrooklynParent 39

HOLIDAY FUN! Labor Day at Prospect Park FREE

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 3, 12-6pm WHERE: Prospect Park Audubon Center, Lincoln Road and Ocean Ave., Flatbush AGES: All WHAT: Activities include Bird Nerd Game Hour, Nature on the Go!, a Race Around the Farm Yard, and $2.50 carousel rides at the Children’s Corner. WANT TO GO? 718-287-3400. prospectpark.org.

Fall 2018 Sukkot

SPECIAL NEEDS Our Garden Club FREE

WHEN: Sept. 5-12, Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library-Central Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Plant seeds, read stories, sing and take home plants. WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org/locations/central.

Discovery Garden Early Opening for Children and Families of All Abilities FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 9-11am WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 900 Washington Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Water, weed, and plant in the garden, use tools to explore, and read stories! An ASL translator will be stationed in the garden, and each exhibit features sound, visual, and tactile elements designed for accessibility. WANT TO GO? 718-623-7200. bbg.org.

TDF Autism Friendly Performance: ‘The Lion King’

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 30, 1pm WHERE: The Minskoff Theatre, 200 W. 45th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Adjustments to lighting and sound will be made to the performance for individuals on the autism spectrum, with sensory and communication disorders, or with other learning disabilities. WANT TO GO? $25.50 and up. 212-912-9770. tdf.org.

Deaf Jam Celebration

WHEN: Sept. 26-27, Wednesday-Thursday,11am-4pm WHERE: Green Meadows Farm, 3159 Flatbush Ave., Floyd Bennett Field AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Sukkot with a petting zoo, a kid-friendly haunted house, a hayride, giant wagon slide, a chance to drive the bulldozer, and a free pumpkin! WANT TO GO? $9. 718-470-0224. greenmeadowsfarmny.com.

Autumn Festival 2018 FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 30, 12-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park - Pier 1 Promenade, Old Fulton St., Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Commemorate one of the largest holidays celebrated throughout Asia, a time to enjoy a successful harvest, as well as an occasion for reunions among friends and relatives. WANT TO GO? 718-683-5600. brooklynbridgepark.org/events/chinese-cultural-day-autumn-festival.

Sukkot

WHEN: Sept. 23-30, Visit website for schedule. WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Join as BCM celebrates Sukkot with book readings, kosher food tastings, and music! See a Sukkah and learn about the holiday’s origins! WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Pumpkin Picking

WHEN: Sept. 29- Oct. 21, 11am-4pm, Visit website for schedule. WHERE: Green Meadows Farm, 3159 Flatbush Ave., Floyd Bennett Field AGES: All WHAT: Visit the farm’s friendly animals, giggle on a hayride, pick your own pumpkin in the patch with multiple sizes! WANT TO GO? $9. 718-470-0224. greenmeadowsfarmny.com.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 30, 2pm WHERE: Waterfront Museum, 290 Conover St., Red Hook AGES: All WHAT: Watch the PBS Documentary Deaf Jam followed by an interactive sign language workshop with the film’s main character and director. WANT TO GO? $5-$20. 718-624-4719. waterfrontmuseum.org.

Sensory Room Family Hours

WHEN: June 2- Dec. 31, Thursday and Saturday-Sunday, 2-4:45pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: The Sensory Room is a welcoming environment for children on the autism spectrum. WANT TO GO? $9; $1 for children 1 and younger. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

Coming up next month: OCT. 13: Family Workshop: Stop-Motion Animation at BRIC House, Fort Greene OCT. 21: Aquarium Mornings with the Animals at New York Aquarium, Coney Island OCT. 27: Coney Island Children’s Halloween Parade, Coney Island

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

things to do

where-to guide

Fall You Want and More

Compiled by Anja Webb

With back-to-school season in full swing and cooler weather on the way, September is the perfect time to take a moment to relax with your family and clear out a weekend for these quintessential fall activities. Take a day trip to pick apples and de-stress on the farm. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more exhilarating, venture out to some of our favorite amusement parks and catch a rollercoaster or two. And now that it’s not too hot, you can spend a little more time outside, connecting with nature. Try an after-school trip to a zoo or botanical garden to keep your kids busy. And for a night on the town with your family, what better activity than good ol’ fashioned bowling? With these guides, you won’t have to hear “I dunno, whatever you wanna do” this September!

BOWLING ALLEYS Melody Lanes

461 37th St., Greenwood 718-832-2695; melodylanesny.com Sunday-Thursday, 9-12am; Friday-Saturday, 9-3am Enjoy family bowling discounts, a snack bar, bowling leagues, and a bar serving cocktails, beers, and wine. Melody Lanes is also available for birthday parties, corporate parties, and fundraisers. Family bowling night deals are every night from 5-7pm, and junior daily specials are 9am-5pm on weekdays. Find more>> nymetroparents.com/bowling

AMUSEMENT PARKS Adventurer’s Park

1824 Shore Parkway, Bensonhurst 718-975-2748; adventurerspark.com Through Sept. 3, check the website for times. Price: Single ticket: $3.75; 10 tickets for $31; 30 tickets for $80; Go-Karts for $8 ($12 with a passenger). Calling all adventurers! With family rides, water boats, and mini golf, this amusement park has something for everyone. Check website for attractions. Find more>> nymetroparents.com/amusementparks

APPLE PICKING Hurd’s Family Farm

3302 Avenue U, Marine Park 718-421-2021; saltmarshalliance.org Through November: Saturday-Sunday, 12-4pm Admission: Free The center houses nature exhibits and fish tanks for viewing. It serves as a starting point for walking tours and workshop sites for nature-themed educational programs.

2187 State Route 32, Modena 845-883-7825; hurdsfamilyfarm.com Open daily, 9am-5pm Pick your own apples through early November with more than 20 varieties at the 120-acre farm. Apple cider doughnuts, hot and cold apple cider, applesauce, apple butter, and jams and preserves available for purchase. Visit the café for savory and sweet foods, all made with apples.

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ZOOS, NATURE CENTERS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS Salt Marsh Nature Center

raising kids baby

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The Benefits of Baby Classes ›› Time spent with your baby in the company of other wee ones is more than just fun for both of you. It’s a solid plan for bolstering your child’s burgeoning social skills. By Christina Vercelletto

he first time my son had any real interaction with a fellow child, he was maybe 4 months old. It was right before the Thanksgiving turkey was served. The son of a family friend, scarcely a month older than he and held on an adjacent lap, clutched my bambino’s calf. He turned, smiled, and promptly blew a raspberry. The two of them proceeded to coo at each other with hands flapping and gums smacking until the pumpkin pie came out. I then realized it was time to get my little one out of our house more regularly. Part of the reason I signed the two of us up for our first class— Babies Boogie at the West Islip library—was my interest in…okay, desperation for…conversing with grown-ups and feeling like a human being once in a while. And there isn’t any shame in that game. “Mothers tend to flock to these programs because of the opportunity to interact and socialize with other mothers who are at a similar stage of life. An upbeat outlook and positive mood in mothers transfers to their babies and is overall a wonderful benefit for all,” says Karen Hopkins, M.D., a developmental-behavioral pediatrician at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone in Manhattan. But aside from the perks for you, these types of classes actually can play an important part in your little one’s healthy development. Read on for a rundown for all the ways it can help her grow.

A Tiny Caterpillar Becomes a Social Butterﬂy

According to Jasmin Terrany, LMHC, a Manhattan psychotherapist and author of Extraordinary Mommy: A Loving Guide to Mastering Life’s Most Important Job, infant interaction builds both social skills 42

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

and budding confidence. Of course, your child’s first playmate is you. All that talking, beaming, and singing you do throughout the day become the first building blocks of your newborn’s socialization. At around 3 or 4 months, your little guy is ready to spread his wings in larger groups outside of your home. “Many new parents get accustomed to shutting out the world in order to bond with their new babies,” says Mandi Silverman, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist at Manhattan’s Child Mind Institute. But attending classes with other babies and unfamiliar adults, can help get an infant comfortable with the outside world, Dr. Silverman says. Social learning—when babies are motivated to try new skills because they see others using them—can take hold. Mom of two Melly Shotter, an office manager on Long Island, was pleasantly surprised by her 5-month-old son’s reaction to his first music class. “Practically from the start of the very first session, he started giggling and seemed so alert and interested in everything...It was a wake-up call that I’m not the only one who needed a social life!” Shotter laughs.

Big Payoffs; Plenty of Options

Parent and baby classes come in many variations, from massage, music, and swimming to movement—even yoga! These classes often welcome participants as young as 3 months. But before you register, you might wonder: Can babies this little really pick up any social skills to speak of in these play date-classroom hybrids? The short answer from child development experts? Yep. “The benefits are vast,” Dr. Silverman insists. “It’s never too early for parents to expose their babies to the world in small, developmen-

tally appropriate ways. Mom-baby classes are a perfect way to do so, which is why there are so many options to choose from.” A study published in Developmental Science compared babies and parents who took part in music classes with parent-baby pairs who just listened to the same music while doing other things. The babies in the participatory classes were more musically aware and had finer-tuned gestures and increased social skills after the classes ended. “The benefits of Mommy- or Daddy-and-Me classes on a child’s development cannot be overstated,” agrees Katie Davis, M.D., a developmental psychologist at Park Avenue Pediatric Neuropsychology in Manhattan. Although your baby won’t be communicating with her tiny classmates verbally, “repeated exposure to other children in a safe, supported setting can help build social skills and confidence,” Dr. Hopkins notes. And that repeated part is important. “If you are doing the class so that they will learn a specific skill, then frequency and consistency would be the key,” Terrany agrees. Indeed, Darci Falcone of Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, shares how sticking to the baby signing class her daughter took made it a success. She was dubious at first, though. “I was ready to stop after a few sessions, but at the encouragement of a friend who attended with us, we kept going regularly,” Falcone recalls. Given the range of options to choose from, it’s simple enough to try out a few classes and see which type your baby seems to enjoy most.

Love and Learning for the Long Term

That fun class you take with baby right now can also have far-reaching positive effects. A study in Early Child Development and Care discovered that compared to a control group, moms who attended music and movement classes were more adept at responding to their infants and using a more variable pitch when speaking to their child. That could give a baby a head start on language skills. Plus experts agree group baby classes can represent an early opportunity to develop social and behavioral skills that are crucial for academic readiness down the road. Keep in mind, though, that you shouldn’t let your best of intentions get in the way of keeping your baby’s age and developmental stage top of mind. “As in any setting a mother or caregiver is in with a baby, it is important to understand your baby’s cues, to know when a situation that started out as fun may not continue to be positive or pleasurable, and to not force the interaction this time, so that the next time he or she will be ready,” Dr. Hopkins urges. The most important gift you can give your child, in a group class or any other setting for that matter, is being fully present. While it’s wonderful to make friends, Terrany cautions against letting the babies in a class entertain each other, so to speak, while the parents just chat away and check their phones the whole time. The No. 1 benefit of most baby classes is the undistracted, quality time we are giving our children. “With babies, who can’t demand our attention the same way older kids do, it can be so easy to get distracted, so setting aside this time to connect with our children can be beneficial,” Terrany says. Just take it slow, following your baby’s lead. Then as you learn and grow together, you’ll be enjoying classes side by side for years to come.

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Christina Vercelletto is a former editor at NYMetroParents, Parenting, Scholastic Parent & Child, and Woman’s Day.

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BrooklynParent 43

raising kids teen

From Friends to Falling Out

How teens can cope with friendship breakups

››

By Samantha Neudorf

t the end of my freshman year in high school, two friends I thought I was close with stopped talking to me for no reason. They decided not to invite me to one of their birthday parties and when I asked why I was excluded, their response was one of them “just did not want to be friends with you anymore.” Navigating friendships as a teenager can be tricky. This is the age when kids are trying to figure out who they are, meeting new people, getting involved in different activities, and going through physical and emotional changes. Kids who have been friends since childhood may drift away from each other because they no longer have anything in common. Though friend breakups are common in the teen years, they can be devastating—after all, friends can act as a strong support system. It’s important to remember not all friendships may last, but going through a rough patch can help kids learn how to build better relationships with others. Here are some ways to help your teen learn how to resolve problems, be a better friend, and know when to move on from a bad friendship.

“We really look at a situation and ask both parties to take responsibility for whatever occurred, whether that was a miscommunication or any action that was not a positive one,” Wilson says. “Then we look at both of their parts to see if they’re willing to apologize to each other and come to some kind of a meeting of the minds.” If the problems lie beyond a counselor’s realm of expertise, parents may choose to send their teen to a behavioral psychologist to try to help her with any deeper issues within herself. “A lot of times it’s just helping [teens] navigate their own self-esteem and identity formation to develop healthy relationships around them,” says Adam S. Weissman, Ph.D., a clinical-behavioral psychologist and the founder and director of The Child & Family Institute, a cognitive-behavioral therapy center with locations in Westchester, Manhattan, and Brooklyn. “Sometimes if they really are trying to maintain a friendship or develop a new friendship, there’s definitely some social skills and tips for overcoming social anxiety or worry about what that person thinks of them,” Dr. Weissman says.

Suggest a Sit-Down

Encourage Equal Friendships

If a teen is having issues with a friend at school and needs to seek advice from someone, a guidance counselor’s role is to be a mediator. A counselor can set up separate or group meetings with the students involved, depending on how comfortable they are being in a room together. Jeanmarie Wilson has been a high school guidance counselor for more than 20 years at Smithtown High School West in Suffolk County and recommends having all parties communicate to work through the issue they are trying to resolve. 44 September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Oftentimes teens may put themselves in situations in which the people they call friends are using them, or they are not being their authentic selves in order to gain popularity and please others. Explain to your teen that if the dynamic feels as though he’s giving more than he’s getting, it’s a sign the friendship is unbalanced. “A friendship is a product of how [teens] choose to engage with their social environment, and that’s usually a reflection on how they feel about themselves,” Dr. Weissman says.

The key to any relationship, whether it’s platonic or romantic, is to have two-way communication and for both parties to feel there is reciprocity. Let your teen know that if she’s unhappy in a situation, conveying her feelings to the other person lets them know she cares enough to be open and honest in communicating, and that she respects herself enough to say she is upset. Then she also needs to be a good listener and understand where the other person is coming from. “Give thought in what you say to people, how you say it, and respect others for who they are—you can’t expect them to be perfect all of the time,” Wilson says.

Help Your Teen Limit His Social Media Exposure

Social media nowadays can really mess with a teenager’s head. He can find himself overanalyzing subtext that may or may not be in captions and Instagram stories, fretting over not receiving enough likes and comments on a post, or feeling FOMO (fear of missing out) when friends are hanging out without him. Social media can create unnecessary drama, so it’s best to avoid spending too much time on apps and have more face-to-face conversations. “It’s really important not to use social media as a form for expressing things that are really sensitive topics,” Wilson says. “I would advise communicating to the person directly and not posting your feelings or texting anything that needs to be said in person to avoid miscommunication.” Teenagers may feel pressure to look or live like “influencers” on the Internet, which can lead to feeling inadequate or unhappy. Remind your child social media is curated and the best way to feel better is to log off once in a while (this advice can apply to adults too). Apps such as Moment or Checky can monitor how many times she checks her phone to make her more aware of reducing screen time. “Spending hours on social media becomes more depressing over time and you start feeling guilty of the things you’re not doing,” Dr. Weissman says. “If you’re that kid who’s going on there and self-esteem is an issue for you, you’re going to use that as your barometer to find how people value you.”

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Put a Friendship’s End in Perspective

Though it is ideal to resolve an issue among friends and continue the friendship, sometimes after laying all of the problems and feelings out on the table, the friendship cannot go back to what it was and does not work out. Not everyone will remain your teen’s friend, but every friendship or brief encounter can help him understand what types of qualities he values in a friend moving forward. Encourage your child not to view a friendship breakup as a failure, but rather as an opportunity to grow and continue to learn how to be a better friend. Once she lets the not-so-great-people out of her life, she can make room for better ones to create more meaningful friendships. “Some kids are going through the motions and figuring out who they are and trying to be popular, and sometimes those kids have a hard time being a good friend,” Dr. Weissman says. “Having open and real conversations about what’s going on for each other can be an important sense of support and can make a real valuable friendship that can last beyond high school, but it takes a certain level of maturity for that to happen and I think some kids are not there yet.” As high school progressed beyond my freshman year, those two friends who excluded me ended up drifting apart themselves, and finding new groups to hang out with. Teens who say they’ve found their BFFL (best friends for life) may not always end up staying friends for life, and that’s okay. Friends come and go throughout high school to make room for better ones down the road.

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Samantha Neudorf is a former editor at NYMetroParents. She currently resides in Astoria, Queens with her cat and holds a journalism degree from Hofstra University. You will most likely ﬁnd her gallivanting around New York City or at brunch.

BrooklynParent 45

family life finances

Saving for Higher Education

››

College is costly, but more often than not, necessary for your child’s success in life. Here’s how to start saving for higher education so you get the most for your dollar without breaking the bank. By Barbara Russo

new baby in the house is certainly something to celebrate. This wonderful addition to the family also brings with it some heavy responsibilities for parents for many years to come. Sleep cycles change, babysitters need to be found, and soon enough it’s time for baby to start day care and preschool. Expenses will accompany every milestone a child hits. One of the most costly ones is college. When you have a newborn or toddler, college seems a world away. But time flies, so it’s never too early to start saving for higher education. “Parents should begin to plan for their children’s education as soon as they are born,” says Nancy Curtin, CFP, CLTC. Another reason to save: Admission costs are likely to increase as the years go by. Today, the average four-year cost for a public university is $101,000 and $167,000 for a private university. In 18 years, the projected average cost for a public college is $184,000 and $303,000 for private, according to Curtin. With such exorbitant expenses, how exactly should you begin to save? What are some steps to take to ensure college will be paid for?

Some of these options include 529 plans, Roth IRAs, and high-yield savings accounts. The 529 is one of the most common ways parents start saving for college. It is specifically designed for higher education expenses. “You put after-tax money into this account, your earnings are not taxed, and you can withdraw the money tax-free to pay for college. Many states will give you a state tax deduction for your contributions,” Epperson says. “Plus, this year there’s an extra perk. Under the new federal tax laws, up to ten thousand dollars a year of your 529 plan money can be used to pay for private school tuition for kindergarten through twelfth grade. Your money in the 529 can be invested in a range of assets based on your child’s age and when they will be going to college.” Parents who have multiple kids may think they need to open separate 529s for each child, but that’s not necessarily the case. Plus, it can be overwhelming to manage. Epperson suggests parents contribute as much as they can to a 529 for their first child. If they wind up not needing all of the money, they can change the beneficiary of the account without any penalties.

Diversify Your Savings

The 529 plan is a great foundation, but once he starts school, it’s important to start focusing on his academic success, too. “The reality is that grades and test scores weigh heavily in the scholarship and financial aid process for college,” says Anne Huntington, vice president of Huntington Learning Center. “One way that parents can save for their children’s college education is by investing in their academic and skills progress early.”

“There are several ways to save, and the best way to go may be to put your college savings in several places,” says Sharon Epperson, CNBC senior personal finance correspondent and host of Retire Well, a digital video series designed to help viewers of all ages manage their money. “Diversify where you save in terms of the type of accounts that you choose and what you invest in.” 46

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Encourage Good Grades

Huntington cites how students who attend the learning center achieved higher grades and ultimately received an impressive amount in scholarship funding. “Our individualized test prep programs’ results are tremendous and show that after only three months of tutoring, students on average achieved a 5.2 point increases on the ACT and 238 point increase on the SAT,” she says. “In addition to the point increases, on average, our seniors in the tri-state area last year [each] received over $50,000 in scholarship offers.”

value, there’s any number of college education calculators online. I do this typically during financial planning. You can search to solve for how much you need to save each month, each year to actually achieve that goal.” There are some other factors to keep in mind within these calculations, Boneparth adds. “There [are] a lot of assumptions in there—the return on the money you’re investing, the inflation rate of college education and tuition. But if you’ve quantified it by time and value and have used

the calculator and have solved for what it’s going to take every month, you’ll have something here that you can use. You can take that information and plug it into your budget.”

Include Your Kids

One last tip from the experts is to get your kids involved. Talk about school with them, and get them to start saving once they have a job and start earning money. “Encourage each child to open a Roth IRA when they start earning money. You want to get them

in the habit of saving a portion, at least twenty percent, of what they earn,” Epperson says. “Saving more early on will encourage them to keep saving, even if it’s a little less, later. Also, each child can have their own high yield savings account. When you start teaching them to manage their own money, show them the benefits of saving in their own account. Talking about saving can provide some great teachable moments.” Barbara Russo is a freelance writer who holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the City University of New York.

Create a Registry

As your child grows, there are other ways to keep the savings going. For example, when arranging birthday parties or other special events, consider asking guests to contribute to your child’s 529 rather than giving a physical gift. “It may not win best gift on the day of the birthday party, but it sure will come in handy down the road,” says Pete Wylie, vice president of Student Lending at CommonBond, a financial service that refinances graduate and undergraduate loans. There are even websites that allow people to register online to send gifts to 529 accounts, including Ugift529.com, GiftofCollege. com, and LEAF College Savings (leafsavings.com).

Remember It’s Never Too Late

As important as it is to start saving early, it’s never too late. It might also give you a better idea of what type of education you’re saving for, and whether your child is likely to attend community college, a private institution, or another type of school. If your child knows what kind of career path she wants to take, that can also be helpful in figuring out which school to attend. The most expensive school doesn’t always mean the best education. “The first step to do is to get some kind of idea as to what college education we’re talking about,” says Douglas Boneparth, a certified financial planner and author of The Millennial Money Fix. “Once you have time and

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Courtesy Debra Funt

Courtesy Jennifer Morris

family life home

This kitchen in the Bronx, designed by Jennifer Morris, perfectly displays the color trend in cabinets.

Brooklyn-based designer Jennifer Morris added a pop of color in this Fort Greene kitchen with a yellow sink.

Debra Funt, a Scarsdale-based interior designer, incorporated metal barstools, pendant lights, and more in an all-white kitchen.

Kitchen: Trending

››

Interior designers share the five big design fads happening in kitchens right now.

ore and more, the kitchen is becoming the heart of the home—just look at home design shows, including Nate & Jeremiah by Design and Fixer Upper, for inspiration. “It’s not only the central hub for a family,” says Debra Funt, founder and president of Debra Funt Interiors in Scarsdale, “it looks like it’s integrated into your living space.” So just how do you achieve that integration in your kitchen? Here are five big trends you can incorporate now to give the new heart of the home a cozy feel, whether you’re a homeowner and can make drastic changes, or you’re a renter who can, at most, paint.

Pops of Color

While soft neutrals that create a serene space are still popular in the kitchen, Jennifer Morris, principal at Brooklyn-based JMorris Design, says more people are being adventurous with color accents including navy and cobalt blues, jewel tones, and bright yellow. And these colors are being incorporated in numerous ways. If you’re feeling daring, paint the walls (or just an accent wall) or cabinetry a bold color. “It also can just be one half of the cabinetry instead of feeling like you’re investing in the expression of a full kitchen,” Morris says. “I’ve seen it in just the lower cabinets where you’re seeing a dark, rich color and then the upper cabinets are a little bit safer.” If you decide to paint your cabinets, “for durability reasons as well as aesthetic, the high-gloss trend for cabinets is not going away anytime soon, but we are also seeing a lot more satin finishes, 48

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

By Katelin Walling

which is a great option if you want an overall more matte look,” says Nivara Xaykao, Benjamin Moore color and design expert. “Also be sure to consider the light in the kitchen, as this will impact how the color will look on walls and cabinets.” Another color trend in kitchens is pale and milky colors (think matte too), according to Xaykao. And appliance brands are following suit with matte finishes, including De’Longhi’s Dedica DeLuxe Espresso Maker and Lattissima One, which come in matte white, and Café, A Matte Collection of appliances that come in matte white and matte black. If you just want to dip your toe in adding color to your kitchen, go for colorful accessories, such as hand towels, area carpets, soap containers, curtains, and décor items.

Metal Accents

“People are into a more modern aesthetic. Right now I’m seeing a lot of industrial happening,” Funt says. “In the city, people tend to be open to a lot of metal accents right now when I’m doing a kitchen renovation.” If you have barstools at an island or counter, swap out your old ones for some trendy metal ones, change the knobs and pulls on cabinets for metallic options, replace the outdated lighting fixture for one that looks industrial, update your faucet for a trendier style, or upgrade some old countertop appliances to ones with metallic finishes. Café, A Matte Collection is on-trend in this aspect, too. After choosing matte black or matte white, you can “update and

personalize with these accessories in the form of hardware and knobs,” says Maggie Bellinger, CMF, senior designer with Café, A Matte Collection. That hardware is offered in four finishes in line with the metallic trend: brushed copper, bronze, black, or stainless. Want to add metallic accents but not sure what finish to choose? “Warmer gold tones are looking particularly fresh at the moment,” Xaykao says.

Fun Backsplashes

If you want to add color but adding accessories isn’t enough color for you (and painting is too much), Morris suggests updating the backsplash because it’s “very low risk.” It’s also a fun way to incorporate metal accents in the kitchen, with metallic inlays or tiles as part of the design. “It is something that can be removed or replaced in a relatively inexpensive way for the labor and materials. …It’s usually in the smallest area, but it’s something you see so much,” she says. If you want the wow-factor without a lot of color, try one large piece of frosted glass or sandblasted mirror (bonus: They’re both easy to clean with Windex!). And if monochromatic is more your style, install single-color tiles in an unexpected pattern (think herringbone).

Living Room Décor in the Kitchen

“A lot of times we think of it as a sterile environment, but we’re starting to see framed artwork and paintings and photography…in the kitchen. I find that pretty fascinating where it’s almost a second living space,” Bellinger agrees. “So people want their pieces in the kitchen to actually look like the rest of their home.” Incorporate items in your kitchen that you would typically put in a living room, such as vases, candlesticks, artwork, and sofas or loveseats at the breakfast table, to give your kitchen a lived-in feel.

Susan Walsh, Principal Nathan Lynch Director of Admissions, Marketing, and Development

Tech-y Touches

As with other facets of our lives, technology is slowly creeping into kitchen design and trends. “I think generally a lot of people are looking at their home system as something they can maintain the control of from an environmental point of view, such as power saving, and in the kitchen there’s room for all of those things,” Morris says. The easiest thing you can do to incorporate the energy-saving tech trend is to replace your old light bulbs with LED ones. They use 2025 percent of the energy and last 15-25 times longer than traditional incandescent light bulbs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In terms of kitchen appliances, they’ve been “making huge leaps and bounds,” Morris says. Samsung’s Family Hub refrigerator, for example, is Energy Star-certified and has a touchscreen, which allows you to take photos of the inside of your fridge to see what you have and what you need when you’re not home, create grocery lists you can share instantly to any connected smartphone, write memos and sync family calendars, and even keep you entertained in the kitchen with streaming music and TV mirroring. And brands such as LG, GE, and Bosch offer smart ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, and more that can all be controlled and monitored from brand-specific apps on a smartphone. If you’re ready to tackle some of bigger design changes mentioned above, start “paying attention to other friends’ homes,” Morris advises. Ask questions about how certain materials have worked out for them, how they like their smart appliances, and whether they have any recommendations for contractors or handymen. And do your research: how are smart appliances rated and do they come with warranties, what is the best value for you, is one material easier to care for and more durable than another? Once you figure out your needs, “the trends should be the icing on your cake,” Morris says.

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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 St. & 9th Ave), 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

646-381-5166 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!

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, state-of-the-art facility

Orthodontic Specialist for Children and Adults Brooklyn Heights: 142 Joralmon Street | Suite 6B Park Slope: 73 8th Avenue (at Union Street) T: 718-625-2299 E: info@bkfamilyortho.com W: bkfamilyortho.com

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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!

Family Farm OPEN HOUSES 2018 Hurds We Grow Fun A. Fantis Parochial School

Pre-K3 through eighth grade, including UPK Theodore G. Tasoulas, principal 195 State St. afantis.org Join us for an information session on Thursday Sept. 20 at 6pm, and Wednesday Sept. 26 at 9am.

The School at the Mark Morris Dance Center

3 Lafayette Ave., Fort Green 718-624-8400 mmdg.orgmmdg.org/school info@mmdg.org Join us for an open house on Saturday, Sept. 8, from 9am–3pm.

 U-Pick Apples & Pumpkins  Cider Donuts  Over 25 FREE Hurds Applesauce Outdoor Activities with barn purchase.  NEW Wild Apple $5 value! Exp. end of 2018 season | BP Obstacle Course 2187 State Rte. 32, Modena • 845-883-7825

HurdsFamilyFarm.com

Science, Language & Arts International School

9 Hanover Place 718–636–3836 slaschool.org Join us for an open house on Sept. 25 or Oct. 4 at 9am, Oct. 15 at 6:30pm, Oct. 17 at 9am, Nov. 2 at 9am, or Nov. 13 at 6:30pm.

St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy

241 Prospect Park West 718-768-7629 sjwca.org Join us for an open house on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 12-2pm. Toddler Time at SJWCA starts on Sept. 28. For inquiries or to schedule a tour, contact kschneck@sjwca.org.

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 Join us for an open house on Wednesday Oct. 24 at 6pm at The Next Step, 9321 Ridge Blvd. for children born in 2015.

We treat:

• Food Allergies • Asthma • Eczema • Hay Fever • Sinus Issues • Recurrent Infections • Hives • Insect Allergies & much more! Board certified pediatric & adult allergist.

10 Plaza Street East Suite 1E Brooklyn, NY 11238 & 311 Saint Nicholas Ave., Ridgewood, NY 11385

(347) 564-3211 www.brooklynallergyDR.com

UrbanGlass

647 Fulton St. 718-625-3685 urbanglass.org/classes Join us for Open Studios: Ancient Glass on Saturday, Sept. 23 from 1-5pm. Watch demonstrations, participate in hands-on activities, and tour our space. Free and open to all ages!

Registering Now!

1270-Bayridge Pkway BIG BEAUTIFUL BRIGHT STIMULATING WELCOMING & NURTURING ENVIRONMENT Professional Dedicated Experienced Staff who will care for your children!

Call for Information about our Infant and Toddler Program!

FREE FULL DAY U.P.K for ALL!

“We believe every child is special” Hours of operation is Mon-Fri 6:30am to 6:30pm

718-680-KIDS

www.littlehandsandfeetdaycare.com All Teachers Certified and Licensed by Dept of Ed & CPR trained

• Provides A Safe, Loving, Environment For Children • We Accept Children From 8 Weeks To 5 Years Of Age • We accommodate for younger babies, infants & toddlers • Also available, 5 Day Program from 7:00 A.M. - 6:30 P.M.

• Our Mission Is To Provide A Quality Childcare Experience That Helps Your Child Develop Physically, Socially and Emotionally

www.LilFootprintsDaycare.com 7805 20th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11214 Tel: 718-234-5890 • Fax: 718-234-5832

2033 76th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11214 Tel: 917-903-7838

BrooklynParent 51

Meet the

Health Care Professional

Park Slope Kids Dental Care 150 4th Ave. 718-488-0200 parkslopekidsdental.com

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.

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

Keith Breglio, M.D. Maimonides Children’s Hospital Pediatric Gastroenterology 4802 10th Ave. 718-283-7500

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.

Dr. Keith Breglio, one of Brooklyn’s top doctors, is a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist at Maimonides Children’s Hospital. He treats a wide variety of conditions including inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis), celiac disease, and gastroesophageal reflux. Dr. Breglio focuses on not only treating the disease itself, but also combating any fears and concerns children and their parents might have. This allows his patients to enjoy this wonderful period of growth despite the illness being treated.

Monita Mendiratta, M.D. Maimonides Children’s Hospital Pediatric Pulmonology, Sleep Medicine 4802 10th Ave. 718-283-7500

Dr. Mendiratta is a highly respected, board-certified pediatric pulmonologist who specializes in pediatric sleep medicine and pediatric pulmonology. After her pediatric training at Maimonides, she completed her pulmonary fellowship at the nationally renowned Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Mendiratta leads a multidisciplinary team that diagnoses and treats sleep disorders in infants and children related to medical, developmental, or behavioral conditions in our Institute for Sleep and Breathing Disorders. She also has expertise in respiratory conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, and chronic cough.

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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 for her patients. She is active in her alumni societies and local dental organizations and regularly attends continuing education classes so that she can provide the most successful results for her patients.

Lynn Model, M.D. Maimonides Children’s Hospital and Pediatric Trauma Center Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery 984 50th St. 718-283-7384

Dr. Lynn Model is a highly regarded and experienced pediatric surgeon. She completed her residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital and fellowship in pediatric surgery at Miami Children’s Hospital. Dr. Model is board-certified in general surgery and trauma and critical care. She provides services ranging from prenatal consultations to complex laparoscopic surgeries all with compassion and delivered in a child-friendly environment. Dr. Model also leads an interdisciplinary pediatric trauma surgery team, which is part of the only pediatric trauma center in Brooklyn.

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES

La Récré De Paris

CBE Kids: Congregation Beth Elohim

Need to plan the perfect party? FIND venues, entertainers, suppliers, and other ideas to create the ideal party in our online Parent Resources Directory.

NYMetroParents.com

274 Garfield Place, Park Slope

Servicing Brooklyn and Manhattan

Ha’Geemnasia is CBE’s Hebrew language and Israeli culture after-school program. All Ha’Geemnasia classes allow children to have fun while engaging in activities with Israeli teachers. Ha’Geemnasia offers after-school pickup from local schools.

The art of teaching children French through recreation is our way of approaching a new language. Come and join us for a creative, loving, and fun experience.

718-768-3814 congregationbethelohim.org • bfinkelstein@cbebk.org

917-436-0477 larecredeparis.com • info@larecredeparis.com

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

Brooklyn Music School.....................................................2 Congregation Beth Elohim..............................................23 Dutch Total Soccer Brooklyn .........................................27 Key Lab NYC .................................................................27 Leif Ericson Day School.................................................10 Smart Start.....................................................................29 Stepping Stones Preschool ...........................................45 Treasure Island...............................................................45

child care / day care

Changing Tomorrow Academy........................................56 Lil’ Footprints..................................................................51 Little Hands and Feet ....................................................51 Little Scholars ................................................................14 Mommybites...................................................................55 Redeemer St. John Nursery School ..............................35 Smart Start.....................................................................29 Stepping Stones Preschool ...........................................45 Treasure Island...............................................................45 Urban Strategies Early Learning Center ..........................9 World of Wonder Day Care ...........................................29

classes

April’s Dance - N - Feet .................................................25 Blue School....................................................................22 Brienza’s Academic Advantage......................................23 Brooklyn College Prep Ctr For Perf Arts.........................21 Brooklyn Music School.....................................................2 Brooklyn Tennis Academy .............................................27 Congregation Beth Elohim..............................................23 CrossFit Kids..................................................................27 DGK Parochial School of Holy Cross ............................19 Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate............................5 Joffrey Ballet School ......................................................21 Key Lab NYC .................................................................27 Lil’ Footprints..................................................................51 Little Hands and Feet ....................................................51 Mark Morris Dance Group .............................................14 Music Together of Bay Ridge .........................................43 Redeemer St. John Nursery School ..............................35 Smart Start.....................................................................29 The Learnatory.................................................................7 Urban Glass ...................................................................27 World of Wonder Day Care ...........................................29

dance

fitness

April’s Dance - N - Feet .................................................25 Art’s House Schools ......................................................25 Joffrey Ballet School ......................................................21 Mark Morris Dance Group .............................................14

Brooklyn Tennis Academy .............................................27 CrossFit Kids..................................................................27 Dutch Total Soccer Brooklyn .........................................27

education

Affinity Health Plan.........................................................13 Allergy & Asthma Care of Brooklyn..........................51, 52 Brooklyn Family Orthodontics...................................50, 52 Fidelis Care New York .....................................................3 Maimonides Medical Center ....................................47, 52 Park Slope Kids Dental Care....................................15, 52 Pediatric Immediate Care.........................................37, 52

A Fantis Parochial School ..............................................35 Basis Independent School .............................................15 Blue School....................................................................22 Brienza’s Academic Advantage......................................23 Brooklyn College Prep Ctr For Perf Arts.........................21 Brooklyn Friends School ..................................................9 Brooklyn Waldorf School................................................39 Changing Tomorrow Academy........................................56 Congregation Beth Elohim..............................................23 DGK Parochial School of Holy Cross ............................19 Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate............................5 Huntington Learning Center ..........................................22 Leif Ericson Day School.................................................10 Lil’ Footprints..................................................................51 Little Hands and Feet ....................................................51 Little Scholars ................................................................14 Mary Louis Academy (The) ............................................11 Music Together of Bay Ridge .........................................43 Redeemer St. John Nursery School ..............................35 Science Language & Arts Intl School.............................35 St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy .....................43 St. Saviours Catholic Academy .....................................49 Stepping Stones Preschool ...........................................45 Treasure Island...............................................................45 Urban Strategies Early Learning Center ..........................9 World of Wonder Day Care ...........................................29

family entertainment / events / outings

Hurd’s Family Farms......................................................51 Llingsworth Music...........................................................51 Wild West City................................................................37

family travel

Hurd’s Family Farms......................................................51 Wild West City................................................................37

financial planning / insurance

Affinity Health Plan.........................................................13

health

music

Art’s House Schools ......................................................25 Brooklyn College Prep Ctr For Perf Arts.........................21 Brooklyn Music School.....................................................2 Key Lab NYC .................................................................27 Llingsworth Music...........................................................51 Mark Morris Dance Group .............................................14 Music Together of Bay Ridge .........................................43

performing arts / acting

Joffrey Ballet School ......................................................21

religious

DGK Parochial School of Holy Cross ............................19 Leif Ericson Day School.................................................10 Mary Louis Academy (The) ............................................11 St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy .....................43 St. Saviours Catholic Academy .....................................49

retail

Llingsworth Music...........................................................51

special needs

Huntington Learning Center ..........................................22 Urban Strategies Early Learning Center ..........................9

sports

tutors

Brienza’s Academic Advantage......................................23 Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate............................5 Huntington Learning Center ..........................................22

BrooklynParent 53

raising kids quotables

How do you get your kids excited to go back to school? “I tell my daughter my favorite memory from whichever grade she’s entering that year. This year she will be going into second grade, so I told her that was the year I won an award at the science fair. She’s psyched!” —Melissa Ann Ferreira, Queens

“Tell them they’ll be able to see their friends every day.” —Noelle Sarno Uno, Brooklyn

“I look up really cool DIY projects for school supplies and once a week throughout the summer we make the projects ourselves. My daughter can’t wait to show her friends all the cool stuff we made for school.” —Tyaisha Harvey Greene, Suffolk

“I would leave notes in my children’s lunchboxes to get them excited and remind them that I love them.” —Adena Saperstein, Nassau

“We go to Target and get back-to-school supplies!” —Melissa Brown Eisenberg, Westchester

Downtime is rare in the life of a mom. Between deciding on schools and creating spreadsheets, it seems the day has begun and finished before we’ve had time to take a single breath. Downtime might seem like a thing of legend to us, but it can be a reality if we make it a priority. How we each make it happen is up to us, but happen it must. — Jazmin Cybulski, in a post entitled “Simple Ways to Minimize the Stress of Being a Supermom” on themogulmom.com

“Are you stressing about gathering school supplies, schedules and time management? Parental stress can be picked up by your child so stay calm, watch what you say, and show confidence.” — Michelle Spreckels, in a post entitled “How to Ease Back-to-School Anxiety” on momtrends.com

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

“I remind them that they can’t go back to camp until they finish another year of school!” —Lisa Novick Bloom, Manhattan

“We talk about the exciting things they will learn in their new grade and all the upcoming fall happenings they look forward to.” —Tara Suzanne, Rockland

LET TWEENS ARGUE “Rather than shut down arguments, give your child ample time to execute her case. Arguing is a critical skill that tweens desperately need as they proceed into adolescence. Think about it: To turn down a beer at a party or resist a boyfriend’s sexual advances, your child needs a strong argumentative muscle. Standing up to you serves as practice for standing up for his or her beliefs and values.” — Margaret Sagarese in an article entitled “Why Your Difficult Tween is Right on Track.” Read the whole story at nymetroparents.com/difficult-tween

More NYMetroParents.com Highlights: FARM FRESH: Your guide to farmers’ markets in the New York area (nymetroparents.com/farmers-markets) SPORTS SAFETY: Learn how to keep your child safe and healthy during sports practices and games (nymetroparents. com/safe-sports) OH BABY: 5 Things to Know About Your Postpartum Body (nymetroparents.com/postpartum) BAKE IT SPECIAL: Try the Ace of Cakes’ favorite brownie recipe for bake sales (nymetroparents.com/brownies)

Nanny Board

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recommended nannies

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mommybites.com/newyork Parenting resources, education, and support since 2006

Changing Tomorrow Academy Brand New State of the Art Year Round Montessori Program

路 We offer care for children 3 months to 5 years old 路 Located in Downtown Brooklyn 路 Medical Provider on Site 路 Catered Organic snacks and lunch

accepting applications

www.ChangingTomorrowAcademy.com 257 Gold Street Brooklyn, NY 11201

205-701-3333