Bp 1217 by City Guide NY

Brooklyn Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM DECEMBER 2017

Family Vacation Guide • Washington, D.C., with kids • Cruises that leave from NYC • Why teens will love Niagara Falls

Holiday Fun! Tree and menorah lightings, Nutcracker performances, & Hanukkah recipes

The Big Apple Circus Is Back

A behind-the-scenes look at why it’s ‘better than ever’

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

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NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

December 2017 ››

Features

12 The Big Top is Back After filing for bankruptcy, the Big Apple Circus returns—under new ownership—to Lincoln Center.

16 How to Choose the Perfect Family Cruise for Your Crew Find the right cruise for your family with these tips and a roundup of cruise lines departing from the New York area. 20 A Capital Adventure As it turns out, Washington, D.C., is a great place to take young kids. 22 I Took a 14-Year-Old YouTube Addict to Niagara Falls Seven surprises of taking a mother-daughter weekend trip to the falls 40 Celebrate the Festival of Lights Three international dishes to enjoy for Hanukkah

44 5 Ways to Connect with Your Partner Being a new mom can be tough on you and your partner. Here are five tips to keep your bond strong. 46 How Can I Introduce Technology into My Child’s Life in a Safe and Appropriate Manner? Smart devices can be great tools—when they’re used wisely.

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 Quotables 9 NYMP Q&A: Blogger Emma Johnson discusses raising kids as a single mom. 50 Voices: Reflections of a [Not So] ‘Very Cool Dad’

Fun & Activities

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com)

10 DIY Corner: Crafty Gift Guide 11 Media Matters: Apps That Keep Families Close 24 Outing: Pleasantville, Westchester County 25 Family Activities Calendar 36 Where-To Guide: Cut Your Own Christmas Tree 38 Where-To Guide: Kid-Friendly Museums

Directories 42 47 47 48 49

#SnapShot2017 Party Central Professional Services Meet the Health Care Professional Advertisers’ Index

››

ON THE COVER ›› 12 The Big Apple Circus is Back Holiday Fun: 25 Lightings and Nutcracker performances 40 Hanukkah recipes Family Vacation Guide: 16 Cruises that leave from NYC 20 Washington, D.C., with kids 22 Why teens will love Niagara Falls facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

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

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DECEMBER 2017 • Vol.14 • No.5

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Deborah Skolnik

EDITOR’S NOTE

MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf

A Season of Cheer, and Changes

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Jordan Laird

appy holidays! As 2017 dwindles and 2018 dawns, it’s a time for changes everywhere, including here at NYMetroParents. I’m Deborah Skolnik, the brand’s new editorial director. Though you and I don’t know each other well—yet—we already have plenty in common, because I’m in the trenches right alongside you, raising children. I know what it’s like to hold a laughing baby up over my head and have her drool right into my open mouth (a mistake I made only once); to spend an afternoon scrubbing my living-room walls because my toddler decorated them with a red china marker; to lie awake at night with an aching heart after preschool graduation, and elementary and middle school graduation, as well. My daughters are 13 and 17 now, which means I’ve also figured out the best way to embarrass adolescents (by dancing/ pointing/breathing in public). I bet you’re familiar with some of these things, too. But I also know that every mom and dad’s journey is unique. That’s why I’m so excited to work for a brand with such a great motto: “Helping parents make better decisions.” We understand that your time, money, and energy are precious commodities, and we’re here to show you how to make the most of all three. Leaf through this issue, and you’ll see exactly what I mean. Planning a holiday trip over your long-awaited winter break? Cruising with kids is more popular than ever, but the children’s programs on ships can vary widely. To help you figure it all out, we’ve got the ultimate guide to family-friendly cruises that leave from the NYC area, by Emma Steven (p. 16). If you’re more of a landlubber, you’ll want to check out Judy Koutsky’s report on touring Washington, D.C., with her elementary-school-aged sons (p. 20), as well the surprising discoveries that Christina Vercelletto made while visiting Niagara Falls with her teenage daughter (p. 22). Of course, there’s plenty of fun to be had right around here. Katelin Walling treats us to a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the Big Apple Circus (p. 12), which is back at Lincoln Center and better than ever…we’re talking seven-people-making-a-pyramidon-a-high-wire better. (And you thought your life is a balancing act!) If you’ve ever thought about cutting your own Christmas tree, we’ll show you the best places to do it (p. 36). In addition, our roundup of kid-friendly museums (p. 38) will help you inject a little culture into this month’s stretch of delightfully school-free days. We at NYMetroParents are here to help you do your best, in the way that’s best for you. But no matter what, I hope everyone reading this letter has a holiday season that’s exactly the same—filled with joy, peace, laughter, and love. Deborah Skolnik Editorial Director

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UOTABLES Blogging has a way of curating our life and trying to make things always look perfect and that’s just not reality. Some days I’m isolated from the world and my only window to what’s going on is my computer and some days I’m running around the city and sweating my ass off trying to get the stroller up and down those damn subway steps. —Allison Cooper, in a post entitled “Thoughts On Quieting My Mind,” on her blog projectmotherhoodnyc.com

in an instagram This pretty much sums up the past year... “Hey Mom and Dad, you guys still can’t keep up with me? Ha!” #jdpodolsky #cashmeoutsidehowboutdat (Posted by Manhattan mom @callybabie, aka Caroline Wexler)

A SPECIAL HOLIDAY FOR SPECIAL KIDS

in an instagram I ❤ Bay Ridge! #bayridge #bayridgebrooklyn #brooklynkids #atreegrowsinbrooklyn #brooklynliving #nycliving #scooter #microscooter #afterschool #kindergartener (Posted by @usjapanfam, aka Heather Tomoyasu, who blogs at usjapanfam.com)

“Every tantrum is different, every kid is different, every situation unfolds differently. Sometimes you’re in a good mood and taking a leisurely walk in the park, sometimes you’re already frustrated and running late. Sometimes you’re at home, sometimes you’re in Target, sometimes you’re at a restaurant... Sometimes there’s an obvious reason for the tantrum (you denied the kid a toy, you took the iPad away, big brother ate a candy bar in front of little brother), and sometimes there is no reason at all.” —Mike Julianelle, in a post entitled “Expert Tips for Parents Are Great (In Theory),” on his blog dadandburied.com

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

“The holidays can be fun, exciting, and filled with lots of activities, especially right here in New York City. Some of those can be loud and crowded, too. When you have a child with special needs, this time of year can be challenging. While I want my son to be part of it, not everything works for him and his needs. After lots of trial and error, I have figured out the best way to make him feel included, while hopefully having him understand what is going on. I do have to work extra hard to make this happen but I know it is worth it in the end.” In an article entitled “Spending the Holidays with a Child with Autism,” by Dana Greenburg; read the full piece at nymetroparents.com/holidays-autism.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: SEE THE WINDOWS: Find department-store holiday displays at nymetroparents.com/windows. CHOO CHOO!: See where to find holiday train shows at nymetroparents.com/holiday-trains. COLD & FLU SEASON: Learn how to avoid common childhood illnesses at nymetroparents.com/prevent. HIT THE ICE: Find ice-skating rinks near you at nymetroparents.com/ice-skating.

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Emma Johnson is the founder of the blog WealthySingleMommy.com, geared toward successful women who are raising kids solo, and recently wrote the book The Kickass Single Mom. What does it mean to be a “kickass single mom”? The goal is for women to live life fully on their own terms. We are living in a time of unprecedented opportunity, rights, and freedom for women. How do we make the most of these, while also honoring our own needs and dreams? This means each woman must think and act outside of any preconceived boxes. However, there are some tenets of “kickassiness”: Having or striving for financial independence, prioritizing our romantic needs, giving back, and focusing on being the kind of women we want our daughters to grow up to be, and our sons to embrace as their peers in every regard. What are your tips for successful co-parenting? Start from a position of 50-50. Except in cases of abuse, each parent should be presumed equal and competent, with the same rights and responsibilities for the children. This means equal time with the kids; equal say in matters like education, health, and religion; and equal priority for each parent’s extended family, including new romantic partners. Not long ago my work travel schedule suddenly became incredibly busy, and both my boyfriend and my ex’s girlfriend offered to help with the kids. A few years ago my ex and I wouldn’t have been able to negotiate that without a brawl, but I am here to tell you this kind of cooperation is an incredible gift to the kids and their adults, both logistically and emotionally. Also, whenever possible, eliminate or minimize money tension between your kids’ dad and yourself. If you are constantly fighting over money, or one person is angry with the other over sums paid or not paid, find ways to automate any payments, make transparent out-of-pocket expenses for the kids (for things like health care, extracurricular activities, child care), or bring in a mediator to smooth things over. What are the advantages for kids being raised by a single mom? Many women find that single motherhood suits them far better than parenting inside of a traditional partnership. The kids benefit from mothers who are living their best lives. Also, single moms tend to take on tasks that have traditionally been assigned to men, such as breadwinning, home repairs, and yard work. Kids in these families are graced with an enlightened view of what men and women can and should do. All children in single-mom families have the advantage of knowing that family can mean different things to different people. Chances are, kids of single moms will have less time with their mother, because she works more and/or because they spend more time with their other parent. Lots of research has found that children benefit from the closer relationships they form with the other caregivers in their lives, such as grandparents and babysitters.

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DIY CORNER Crafty Gift Guide

By Katelin Walling

From subscription boxes to one-off kits, these crafty gifts give your DIY-lover the satisfaction of creating his or her own gift. Bonus: All materials needed to complete each project are included in the kit, or are common household items, so you won’t have to go to the store for a last-minute supply run.

Court esy K iwiCo

7 DIY Kits for the Crafter in Your Life

Creative Crates at Your Door

The subscription-based KiwiCo offers boxes for ages newborn to 2, 3-4, 5-8, and 9 and older that include creative materials or a full project and more, depending on the age range. Created to celebrate kids’ natural creativity and curiosity while helping parents bring enriching experiences to their children, boxes can be gifted in one-, three-, six-, or 12-month subscriptions. ($16.95-$19.95 per month; kiwico.com)

Court esy

Inspired by Netflix’s Project MC2, the Project MC2 Perfume Science Kit encourages girls to use STEAM skills to make their own signature scent. The set comes with a mini science lab and two scents; common kitchen ingredients such as lemon juice and vanilla also can be used to create fragrances. Other kits in the line include Crayon Makeup and H2O Nail. ($19.99-$29.99; toysrus.com)

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Founded in 2012 by designer Todd Oldham to inspire kids’ creativity and inventiveness, Kid Made Modern has kits for all the crafters in your life. You’ll find a wide range of appealing projects, from drawing comic books to designing jewelry and customizing musical instruments. ($14.99-$39.99; kidmademodern.com)

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Aspiring artists will appreciate the Art Making with MoMA kits, designed by Museum of Modern Art educators. They’re an easy way to create original artwork, while exploring the materials and techniques favored by such artists as Jacob Lawrence, Jackson Pollock, and Vincent van Gogh. Selections include Storytelling Art, Action Painting, and Brushstroke and Color-Mixing. ($16-$25; store.moma.org)

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Knit 1, Purl 1 Whether your crafter is an experienced knitter or picking up the needles for the first time, We Are Knitters offers a project kit that’s right at his or her skill level. Using sustainable, natural, and sometimes recycled fibers, the (aspiring) knitter in your life can make anything from a clutch or hat to a blanket or sweater. ($29-$250; weareknitters.com)

Courtesy We Are Knitters

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Little candy lovers can DIY their own sweet treats with Glee Gum’s Make Your Own candy kits, which are designed to connect kids to the global community. Made from natural ingredients, the easy-to-use kits teach kids why seaweed is the secret to gummies, how rainforest rubber gives gum its bounce, and why the story of chocolate begins in the tropics. ($13.95; gleegum.com)

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In Theaters Dec. 15: Ferdinand Parents need to know that Ferdinand is an animated, modernized take on the classic picture book The Story of Ferdinand. Ferdinand (voiced by John Cena) is a gentle bull who prefers sniffing flowers to fighting in an arena. But when villains see how big and scary-looking he is, they kidnap him to make him fight. He must rely on new friends (Kate McKinnon, Gina Rodriguez, David Tennant, and more) to escape and stay true to himself. The bright, colorful animation goes far beyond the book’s ink illustrations, and it’s safe to expect lots more slapstick and some rude humor. But overall this looks like a sweet, funny movie that kids and families will enjoy.

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Katelin Walling

“As long as you need to love, laugh, and wonder, the Big Apple Circus is here for you,” Ringmaster Ty McFarlan said at the end of the show.

The Big Top is Back

››

After filing for bankruptcy, the Big Apple Circus returns—under new ownership—to Lincoln Center, with Nik Wallenda and Grandma the Clown as headliners. By Katelin Walling

“

ood…good…good…good…good…good.” Grandma the Clown and I stopped talking mid-conversation—and I held my breath—as we gazed at the high wire in the Big Apple Circus tent. Nik Wallenda and his troupe were practicing the Wallenda Seven Person Pyramid during the last week of rehearsals before the circus officially opened, and I had a front-row seat. Other than the hum of the fans running to inflate the safety air mattress in the ring, all I could hear was the mid-walk check-in from the high-wire walkers—and it’s no different in performances. When I saw the full show during opening weekend, even the babies and toddlers in the audience seemed to realize that something dangerous and awesome was going on 40 feet in the air and didn’t make a sound. If the Wallenda name isn’t familiar to you, it will be once you see the Big Apple Circus this winter. Nik Wallenda, a seventh-generation member of the legendary Wallenda family, is headlining the 40th anniversary season of the Big Apple Circus with Barry Lubin, aka Grandma the Clown, who is appearing in her 26th season with the Circus.

‘The Big Apple Circus is Bigger and Better Than Ever’

I know what you’re thinking: Didn’t the Big Apple Circus file for bankruptcy last year? You’re right; it did. And that’s when Neil Kahanovitz, its chairman, stepped in. “I put together a group of people who wanted to keep the Big Apple Circus alive and in New York City,” he says. That group, Big Top Works, acquired the circus nearly a year ago. Kahanovitz—a spinal surgeon who took a five-year leave of absence from medical school in his 20s to be a circus performer—had compelling reasons to save the Big Apple Circus. “It’s one of the shining stars of the unique culture in New York City. You have Lincoln Center, which is the premier performing arts center in the United States, and right there for almost three months during the holiday season, you have what is now the pre-eminent circus in America,” he says. “And for decades and generations, people have grown used to bringing their kids and now grandchildren to see the Big Apple Circus, so it’s really part of New York’s cultural history.”

Typically the creative team (including the director, choreographer, lighting designer, set designer, and musical supervisor) starts to plan the season almost two years in advance. “This year, because we didn’t know if we were going to be able to buy the circus, we jammed almost two years of activity from a production standpoint into six months,” Kahanovitz says. “It’s been very hectic and…it’s certainly paid off.” Once the performers were confirmed—this year’s show has high-wire walkers, acrobats, clowns, contortionists, and puppies and ponies, among others—the team figured out the run of show with the aim of keeping audience members of all ages captivated. “Pardon the pun, but it’s really a juggling act of putting the acts in the right order so that it flows and continues to build throughout the first act and into the second act,” Kahanovitz says. After the circus completes its almost three-month run in Manhattan, it will travel to Atlanta, GA; Washington, D.C.; Boston, MA; Baltimore, MD; and possibly a few more cities, taking the tour through July. Kahanovitz’s goal? “That people realize that the Big Apple Circus is bigger and better than ever, that the acts are bar none the best in the world and are all gathered in an incredible production setting that has been developed by New York and Broadway’s finest production teams.”

The Ultimate Balancing Act

Clowning Full Circle

Barry Lubin (Grandma the Clown), on the other hand, “never intended to go into the circus,” he says. While he’d been a bit of a clown growing up, he discovered a passion for professional clowning during his college years. At the time, he was a student at Emerson College in Boston, MA, and thought he was going to become a television director. “The stress level was so unbelievable that I changed majors and changed majors and after three years, I wanted to take a year off to figure it out,” he says. “Well, I never went back because during that year off, I auditioned for [Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey] Clown College and just got drawn to this. I ended up going to Clown College instead of finishing my senior year, and was offered contracts with the now-defunct Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and it just kept snowballing.”

continued on next page ››

ing Katelin Wall

With circus performing in his blood, Wallenda first began walking on the wire as a toddler. “I was about 18 months old…we were in California on a show called Circus Vargas, which is still running to this day, and I was walking up the tent line as my mom was helping me,” he recalls. By age 2, he was performing in the ring as a clown. As a young teen, the high wire beckoned again—“13 years old was my first performance up on a wire,” he says. Growing up in the circus was “an amazing life,” Wallenda says. His mother home-schooled him while they were on the road, and his field trips were to cultural meccas such as the Smithsonian and Gettysburg. “Wherever we were, we got to see history face to face,” he recalls. When the family was not touring, Wallenda attended private school. “It was a pretty awesome life for sure, to have a close family like that and to be able to see the world,” he says. “It’s an experience that most children don’t get.” Balancing his family life with performing is challenging for Wallenda, especially when walking on a wire across Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon—huge TV productions that came with a lot of media, a lot of training, and a lot of focus, he says. “The truth is, I went out and did those things because my passion was always performing under a big top,” he adds. “The idea was to go out and do these giant productions to raise attention and raise awareness of what happens [in the tent].” Though Wallenda completed these and other amazing feats (he holds six Guinness World Records for tightrope walking), he says the accomplishment he’s most proud of is raising his three children. While none of Wallenda’s kids have expressed interest in becoming the eighth generation of circus performers, his 15-yearold daughter is following in his footsteps as a home-schooler traveling with her parents and the Big Apple Circus. Wallenda also has two sons, a 19-year-old who enlisted in the Marines, and a 16-year-old who is back home in Sarasota, FL, playing high school football.

As for why Wallenda and his wife, Erendira, who also performs in the show, decided to join the Big Apple Circus this season? “We saw it as a great opportunity. …We saw it as ‘hey, our industry needs a shot in the arm and this is a great opportunity with new leaders, new owners, to go out there and show the United States that the circus industry is still strong and going strong and will continue on,’ ” he says. “This is the premier circus, without question, in the U.S., so we saw it as a great opportunity to come back to the industry that we love and be a part of reinvigorating it. I think as a whole this team can do great wonders for our industry and for our passion.”

Grandma the Clown, performed by Barry Lubin, is back for a 26th season with the Big Apple Circus.

Grandma the Clown was created at the beginning of Lubin’s career, when he was just 22 years old. “Grandma is a compilation of my two grandmothers, who I love very much, and my observation of senior citizens through the years. It’s one of many characters that I started off with, and it’s the one that audience members identified as the one they wanted to see more of,” he says. Lubin has now been performing for 43 years, and this year kicked off Grandma the Clown’s 26th season with the Big Apple Circus. He’d left back in 2012 to pursue other opportunities, one of which was to be the first professional clown to perform on all seven continents, which he completed in January with a show for penguins in Antarctica. “The great thing about Grandma is, in a person’s life a grandmother is a beloved figure...I pay tribute to senior citizens, I don’t make fun of senior citizens. And now, in fact, I am a senior citizen. I’ve come full circle. I was a 22-year-old little old lady and now I’m a 65-year-old little old lady.” His bio on the Big Apple Circus’ website says his daughters “have gracefully navigated the world having to explain that their father is also a Grandma.” Though his children are adults now, Lubin says balancing clowning with raising children was difficult. “Years and years and years ago, the family did travel together, but my wife and I decided we wanted our kids to have the opportunities to take swim classes and dance classes and have a social life that was more like a ‘normal’ child’s,” he says. “Over the years I have missed a lot of important moments in their lives, but I try to minimize that as much as I possibly can. They’re adult children now, so they tolerate it pretty well, and they did back then as well. [But] it made me ache when I had to miss a dance recital or something extremely important in their lives because they only got to do it once.” The chance to have more time with his daughters, who live locally, was part of the equation when deciding to be part of the

A Show for the Young and Young-at-Heart

Back in the arena, the tightrope walkers have finished practicing the Wallenda Seven Person Pyramid and are back on the ground. The staging team works quickly to break down and fold up the safety air mattress and set up for the next act to rehearse, just like they do during full performances. In addition to Wallenda and Grandma the Clown headlining the Big Apple Circus, this year’s show also includes Ty McFarlan as ringmaster; the Anastasini Brothers performing their icarian act (one brother does flips and does tricks while balancing on the other’s feet); Dandino, a roller-skating act; Elayne Kramer, a contortionist and seventh-generation circus performer; Jan Damm performing a ‘rola bola’ balancing act; Gamal Garcia Tuniziani, a juggler and third-generation circus performer; the Flying Tunizianis on trapeze; clown Joel Jeske, “who is a phenomenal partner” to Grandma the Clown, Lubin says; and Jenny Vidbel, who performs with her horses, ponies, and dogs. For those who are concerned about the welfare of the animals performing in the show, rest assured they are treated well. (When I visited the horses and ponies, who are rescue animals, in their clean stables during rehearsals, they were enjoying fresh hay.) “They are part of Jenny’s family. When she rescues these animals, she doesn’t really look at them as performers first. If they do work out to be performers and it’s something they like to do, then good. But if not, they spend the rest of their lives out in the pasture at the farm, which is in a gorgeous setting in upstate New York,” Kahanovitz says. “Those horses and ponies are just as happy as any horse or pony I’ve ever seen, and they’re immaculately taken care of. Jenny, first and foremost, is completely in love with every one of those animals.” And you can see that affection in the show. The Wallenda Seven Person Pyramid is the show’s finale—an act “that has never been done in New York City, and it’s something that people recognize as the most difficult aerial feat, particularly on the high line,” Kahanovitz says. The pyramid was first conceptualized in 1946, when Wallenda’s great grandfather sat “at his dining room table with a bunch of wine glasses, and said, this would be cool, and started stacking them up and created the seven-person pyramid. He started training for it on the wire in 1947 and performed it all the way through 1962,” Wallenda says. The family stopped performing the stunt that year when two of Wallenda’s uncles died and one Kateli n Wa lling

The Wallenda Seven Person Pyramid is “the most dangerous feat you can do in the circus world,” Nik Wallenda says.

Big Apple Circus’ 40th anniversary season. “Getting to spend the holidays with my kids…when I’m all over the globe is very difficult to do, obviously,” Lubin says. “I have a tradition with my kids where on Christmas Eve, we drive around and look at the lights in New Jersey and have dinner together. It’s a very small thing, but a very important thing.” Family time, and the fact that Big Apple Circus is the “best circus in the world,” he adds, made the decision relatively easy. “I’ve crossed almost everything off my bucket list and being back in New York is a big moment for me. When I stepped out of my trailer in makeup just now, to me it was like, this is pretty fantastic. It feels like coming home.”

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Nik Wallenda rides a bike across the high wire, while his wife, Erendira, hangs by her mouth 40 feet in the air.

was paralyzed from the waist down during a performance in Detroit, MI. The catastrophe occurred because one of the performers “was under the weather, slipped, and fell,” Wallenda says. The family brought the pyramid back to the high wire in 1998, and now New Yorkers young and young-at-heart can see “the most dangerous feat you can do in the circus world,” according to Wallenda. Producing a show that appeals to all ages is something Kahanovitz says is important to Big Top Works. “What really excites me is to talk to people as they leave the show, and they realize that this is not just a circus for children. It’s a circus for everyone. And we have put together a show that really has something for everyone. Clearly children love it, but what we’re really excited about is the fact that people in their 20s and 30s and parents and grandparents love it just as much, if not more.” The Big Apple Circus is at Damrosch Park in Lincoln Center, Manhattan, with performances through Jan. 7, 2018. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bigapplecircus.com.

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How to Choose the Perfect Family Cruise for Your Crew ›› Find the right cruise for your family with these tips and a roundup of cruise lines departing the New York area. By Emma Steven

ruises are the fastest-growing category in the leisure travel market—it’s estimated that more than 25 million people will set sail this year. But with so many cruise lines competing to woo families, how do you decide which one is perfect for you? To help, we have gathered tips on how to pick a cruise that fits your crew, along with a list of the best family cruise lines departing from the New York area. All aboard!

Things to Consider When Planning a Cruise What does your family need? Almost all cruises now offer some type of family programming, but the services and facilities vary between cruise lines and even individual ships. Some are better for babies and young kids, some for tweens and teens, and others are best for intergenerational parties. A ship that suits teens who want to entertain themselves may not be great for a sports-enthused tween, or a toddler obsessed with Disney princesses. Do you want drop-off activities for the 16

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

kids or to play together as a family? Scheduled or freestyle fun? Investigate what’s offered and consider what each member of the family needs. How old are your kids? Each cruise line splits its kids’ activities by different age ranges. Check that these work for your family, especially if you want siblings to play together. If you have really young kids, double-check that your chosen ship offers drop-off activities. Some will only allow potty-trained kids or children ages 3 and older in their programs. Most ships do not allow children who are not potty trained into the water areas and pools, so if you have a toddler, check first. What size ship suits your party? Larger and newer ships are more likely to have bigger cabins and family suites, as well as exciting-sounding facilities such as bowling alleys and ice-skating rinks. They can also have a party atmosphere and crowds. Smaller ships may have fewer activities, but some fam-

ilies prefer the more sedate atmosphere and shorter lines. If you have teens who like to wander, you’ll want to bring cellphones to keep track of them on a larger ship. How many days do you want the cruise to last? Most lines offer cruises ranging from three to 14 days. Up to seven days can be a good starting point for families and cruise newbies. After all, you don’t want to book a 14-day cruise and discover you hate it on day two! Consider how many days it will take your family to relax and settle in so you can come back from your vacation well rested. What lodgings suit your family’s needs? Each ship has a variety of accommodations, from basic cabins with dividing curtains, to suites with sea views and balconies. Some lines have better basic cabins, some better suites. If you have small kids and won’t be out every night, it’s worth making sure your cabin won’t be above a bar or nightclub. Do you want flexible or set dining times? Each cruise line has a multitude of restaurants and dining choices. Some offer flexible, casual dining where you can pick and choose from whatever cuisine you want. Others are more formal, giving you set times to dine each night. Almost all cruises will offer buffets as well as dining rooms, room service, and often at least one formal meal per trip.

What atmosphere do you want? Do you prefer a traditional, more formal ship or something more casual? A themed cruise or a trip with unrelated but exciting activities? Do you want to pick activities as you go, or to be scheduled? Some ships have a party atmosphere, while others are more laid-back. Figure out the ambience you desire overall as well as in the mornings and evenings.

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What type of entertainment interests you? Many cruise lines offer big-name performers and Broadway-worthy productions. Others have acrobatic shows, character meet-and-greets, or activity zones so the family can entertain themselves at a water park, ice-skating rink, or bowling alley.

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What is your perfect itinerary? From the New York area, the Caribbean is a popular choice for families. Other destinations include city stops in New England and Canada or beach-focused trips to the Bahamas and Bermuda. Some cruise lines stop in Orlando, FL, which is perfect if you want to hit the theme parks or other nearby attractions. Just keep in mind many of the organized activities on land can be expensive, so you may want to plan ahead and book your own entertainment. Read the fine print While some cruises are truly all-inclusive, others may charge more for certain things on board, excursions, or for activities during stops on land. Know what is—and isn’t—included in your ticket price, so you don’t have any surprises when it’s time to disembark.

Family-Friendly Cruise Lines Departing the New York Area More and more families are taking to the high seas for vacation, and New York is a popular place to set sail. Now that you have the tools to plan your cruise, evaluate each cruise line to find the best fit before looking at the specific ships’ offerings. continued on next page ››

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Disney Cruise Line Disney offers some of the most popular cruises for families, particularly families with young children. With just one ship sailing from New York, the Disney Magic, you’ll have to book early. Where to? Itineraries to the Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean, Bermuda, and Canada. Bahamian cruises stop off at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. Families on this trip also get the chance to visit the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida as one of their stops. Highlights: The big draw is the opportunity to make your kid’s dreams come true as they meet their favorite characters. Options include tea with a princess, character breakfasts (select cruises of seven nights or more only), and character meet-and-greets. Other highlights include Disney movies on the big screen, dinner shows, and splashing in Goofy’s Pool. Disney cruises are famous for their Broadway-quality family entertainment and original shows. Exclusive to Disney Magic is Tangled: The Musical, the first-ever stage adaptation of the animated film. The Pirate Night deck party is also a big hit. Kids clubs: The ships have kids clubs for children ages 6 months and older, including a drop-off nursery (extra fee applies) for babies. Another bonus for families with young children: Disney is one of the only cruise lines with splash areas for kids still in diapers. Dining: Guests are given set dining times; eating at the same time each night with the same people, but rotating through different restaurants. There are also casual options, buffets, in-room, and, of course, character dining. Best for: Families with children ages 12 and younger, but Disney cruises attract fans of all ages. Old and young love the classic, Golden Age styling; famous customer service; and smaller size. To book: disneycruise.disney.go.com Carnival Cruise Line Families enjoy Carnival cruises in part because the ships have lots to do and offer good value for the money, along with a laid-back, social atmosphere. The brand-new Carnival Horizon is scheduled to set sail from New York starting May 2018. Where to? From New York, the Carnival Horizon will depart directly to Bermuda. An itinerary for an Eastern Caribbean cruise includes stops in Grand Turk, San Juan, and Amber Cove. Highlights: There’s a Seuss character breakfast (green eggs and ham, of course!), a parade, and themed activities. The new Carnival Horizon will also feature a Dr. Seuss-themed water park. The whole family can enjoy exciting water slides; two theaters, including an IMAX; and SportSquare, a large outdoor recreation area including mini golf, a ropes course, and foosball tables, to name a few of its many attractions. Carnival is also famous for its nightlife for grown-ups, including comedy clubs and big-name performers. Kids clubs: On offer for ages 2-17, including a special teen-only lounge with a DJ. Younger children do not have to be potty trained to attend, but children older than 3 will have their parents contacted if they need to be changed. Dining: Standout options include Bonsai Teppanyaki and Guy’s Burger Joint from Food Network personality Guy Fieri. Best for: Families with children ages 2 and older. Laid-back cruisers who like to be entertained all the time, even by the pool. Dr. Seuss fans and burger lovers. To book: carnival.com Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Line offers a relaxed atmosphere and a huge fleet. The Norwegian Escape, Breakaway, and Gem all sail from New York. 18

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Where to? The ships embarking from New York have itineraries to the Bahamas and Florida, Bermuda, Canada and New England, Eastern Canada and Quebec, and transatlantic (one-way) cruises to London, England. Cruises are also available to the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean. Norwegian Cruise Line is a specialist in the Caribbean and has its own island, Great Stirrup Cay, a stop on the Western Caribbean as well as Bahamas and Florida trips. Highlights: Norwegian Cruise Line introduced ‘Freestyle Cruising,’ which means you can follow your own schedule for activities and eating. This cruise line is famous for its nighttime performances and meal entertainment such as Cirque Dreams, an acrobatic and dance show. Kids clubs: The Guppies Nursery (exclusively on the Norwegian Escape), offers care for children ages 6 months to 3 years. Norwegian Cruise Line offers youth programs divided by age groups for children ages 6 months to 17 years. Activities might vary from ship to ship and depending on the age of your child, but some offerings include circus school, theme nights, parades, treasure hunts, and painting. Dining: Options include specialty dining, buffets, room service, and dining rooms. There are no set dining times, but reservations are available. Best for: Families who want to make their own schedule during the day and love shows. To book: ncl.com Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean cruises are a popular choice for families, with nonstop action for every age. Anthem of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas sail from Cape Liberty, NJ. Where to? Cruises departing Cape Liberty head to Bermuda, Bahamas, Eastern and Southern Caribbean, and also have itineraries to Bermuda and Boston, Canada and New England, and Bermuda and Caribbean. Cruises to the Bahamas will enjoy a stop at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean International’s private island, and passengers can also spend a day in Orlando exploring theme parks, the Kennedy Space Center, or Cocoa Beach. Royal Caribbean International also has Fall Foliage Northbound Cruises to experience peak fall, scheduled for September 2018. Highlights: Royal Caribbean is famous for its never-ending list of innovative play zones and activities, including a rock climbing wall, surfing simulator, trapeze school, and skydiving simulator. A partnership with DreamWorks brings character visits and parades on board from movies such as Shrek and Kung Fu Panda (available on Anthem of the Seas). Entertainment varies per ship but can include Broadway musicals such as CATS or Grease as well as original productions. Kids clubs: Fun and educational programs are offered by age group for children ages 6 months to 17 years. A drop-off nursery is offered on select ships including Anthem of the Seas. Royal Caribbean has great teen entertainment including parties and nightclubs, and offers group and in-cabin babysitting for children ages 1 and older. Select cruises have a Baby Splash Zone for children who are not completely potty trained. Dining: Choices range from casual to elegant, such as Johnny Rockets diner, Chef Jamie Oliver’s Jamie’s Italian (Anthem of the Seas), and Chef’s Table for five-course gourmet meals. Best for: Active families with teens or tweens. Cruisers who are always on the go and want to try everything. Musical lovers. Screenagers who will appreciate the high-speed Wi-Fi. To book: royalcaribbean.com

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Judy Koutsky

Clockwise from left: The author’s sons pose with the Washington Monument in the background during their trip to Washington, D.C., last spring; the author’s sons at the National Air and Space Museum; the author’s sons at the FDR Monument. Opposite page: The author’s sons enjoy ice cream treats at the National Mall.

A Capital Adventure

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With many historical venues and lots of walking required, a trip to Washington, D.C., seemed risky. Turns out, it’s a great place to take young kids. By Judy Koutsky

ost people think of Washington, D.C., as the quintessential eighth-grade graduation trip. The kids are old enough to understand (some, if not all) of the history, and with all the walking involved, they have the stamina for truly exploring the region. But last spring, when my boys were 6 and 8, in kindergarten and second grades, we thought perhaps a trip to our nation’s capital wasn’t a bad idea, especially given the tumultuous political election we’d just lived through. Could a trip there be educational and fun for two high-energy, short-attention-span kids? We decided to find out. We stayed at the River Inn, in large part because it’s affordable and centrally located: It’s near Georgetown, the Metro, and a mile away from the National Mall. Plus, the property has kitchens in all rooms and there’s a giant Whole Foods five minutes away (where we went daily). The staff at the hotel was extremely friendly and super knowledgeable; I was constantly asking their opinion on where to go and when. It’s not a fancy property, but for my family of four, it was a good fit. Turns out many people from the Northeast (and from our town) were in D.C. for spring break. Each family we talked to toured our

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

nation’s capital in a different way. Some did only one activity each day or focused on one area during their stay. We are a full-speedahead family, and so we make the most of every visit, which often means packing in as much as possible. Here’s what we did during our four-day trip to our nation’s capital.

The International Spy Museum

Even before heading to D.C., I had heard of this museum. It’s one of the few for which you have to pay to get in (it’s not a Smithsonian) and the $20 ticket price (for adults; kids are cheaper) can be tough to swallow for a family. Despite the price, the lines are long, a sure tip-off that this museum is popular. While much of it was above my kids’ heads (the idea of government spies was fictional in their mind), my younger son said this was his favorite museum of all that we visited.

The Newseum

This was hands-down my favorite. Like the spy museum, you have to pay to get in, but it was not super crowded. A highlight of the six-floor Newseum was the exhibit about the Berlin Wall, featuring

The National Zoo

The star attraction here is the pandas, and they were well worth the line to see. The zoo is free since it’s part of the Smithsonian, and there’s not a line to get in, just to see the pandas, which is also free. Both of my kids loved seeing these cuddly, cute creatures, and we spent a chunk of time simply watching them. The zoo is a good way to take a break from all the history and science museums.

National Air and Space Museum

This is the most-visited museum in Washington, D.C., and for good reason. We spent several hours taking in the various aircraft and space exhibits, plus we saw an IMAX movie. The kids loved this museum (and the IMAX); it’s well worth a full afternoon or day.

National Museum of Natural History

We saw another IMAX movie here and also spent time at the must-sees: the Hope Diamond and plenty of dinosaurs and mammals from around the world. For younger kids, make sure to take them to the Butterfly Pavilion, the O. Orkin Insect Zoo, and Q?rius, the hands-on lab that has a dedicated junior section for those ages 10 and younger. Also, Objects of Wonder focuses on a bunch of weird stuff that kids find fascinating, such as a hunk of whale earwax.

Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours

Even though we walked nearly 20,000 steps a day (it was fun to watch the numbers climb on our Fitbits!), having the option to jump on the bus and rest for a while was great. Also, I really appreciated the narrative on the bus. Everyone gets a set of headphones and sets the dial to their language preference. We took the bus to the zoo, to Arlington National Cemetery, around the National Mall and Tidal Basin, and toured much of D.C. that way.

Monuments and Memorials

The weather in D.C. the week we went was beautiful and perfect for walking. We visited many memorials—Lincoln, Washington, Jefferson, Martin Luther King Jr., Franklin Delano Roosevelt— and this was one of my favorite things we did. Simply being outside in such a beautiful setting and surrounded by inspirational quotes from great leaders appealed to and inspirited each of us.

Firefly Restaurant

Most of our dining while in Washington, D.C., was on-the-go. Truth be told, my kids are not great at sitting down for long periods of time, but I wanted to try Firefly since I had heard that it’s built around a large indoor tree, which sits in the middle of the room, and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and comfort food. Verdict: The pot roast is divine, definitely a favorite dish. Ingeniously, they give all children cookies to decorate as soon as they sit down. My boys took the project seriously and gave serious thought to where they were putting the sprinkles and chocolate chips. No iPads were needed to entertain them, and I was able to have adult conversation while the boys were preoccupied. Then when the food arrived, our waiter took the cookies away to be baked and brought them back for dessert. My kids thought this was the best restaurant ever! Turns out, there is plenty to do and see in Washington, D.C., for young kids. We enjoyed our visit so much, we are thinking about coming back next year. Judy Koutsky is a Westchester-based writer who writes often about travel, parenting, health, and lifestyle.

Judy Koutsky

an actual piece of the wall; my kids were fascinated by the idea that a city could be walled in and people were not free to leave. We also saw Pulitzer Prize-winning photographs, and the exhibit about Civil Rights was especially interesting to my kids. I feel like we all got an education from this museum.

Arlington National Cemetery

While some families avoid this stop, we thought it was an important one to visit. We went straight to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guard. My kids found this very fascinating: The guards change every 30 minutes. Then we slowly walked back and talked about soldiers and war at the level that was appropriate for them. Kids today know about these topics—how can they not, with what’s in the news every day?—and discussing it with them in a way they understand allowed them to ask questions and created an open dialogue.

Washington Nationals Baseball Game

My kids love sports; me, not so much. But even I got into the energy of a Nationals game. The crowd was so energetic that it was simply contagious. Plus, there are playgrounds on-site for kids who can’t sit still for hours. Before hitting the game, we stopped at a Shake Shack across the street from the park and feasted on burgers, fries, and shakes. Due to the location of the restaurant, pretty much everyone was going to the game, so the excitement started even before we entered the ball field. We went to an evening game, and it was a great way to spend a warm night, after walking all day. BrooklynParent 21

Christina Vercelletto

A view of Niagara Falls

I Took a 14-Year-Old YouTube Addict to Niagara Falls ››

A mother-daughter weekend in Niagara Falls felt like a preposterous idea. So I tried it, and here are the seven surprises I got. By Christina Vercelletto

f you have a child between the ages of 12 and 15, you’re often confused. They change friends, their taste in clothes, their favorite foods—sometimes overnight. They’re with you physically, but their minds and spirits definitely are not, as they look down at their phones for hours on end. Some days, nothing you do, or offer to do, is right. My 14-year-old daughter, Amelia, a good kid by any definition, jumps out of the car before I’ve even come to a complete stop at the home of her BFF of the week, and doesn’t look back. She stiffens a little when I hug her, remarking, “Mom, you’re like really close to my face right now.” Together time is now largely limited to mani-pedis—if she can bring a friend. That’s why a mother-daughter long weekend seemed like it might be tough to pull off without tears (on her part or mine) before the end of it. But a long weekend to Niagara Falls, that classic vacation destination where her grandma honeymooned

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

circa 1960? And without a friend in tow? I like a challenge, so I convinced her to go. (Fine, I pointed out we’d need mani-pedis for the trip). Here are the seven discoveries we made: We can agree on something. The flight from JFK was only about an hour, less time than many of us spend commuting to work. On the other end, Buffalo Niagara International Airport is as easy to get through as my garage. Maybe easier. There was no line (not one person!) in security, and it looked unusually clean for an airport. Or, at least, if you had a toddler who put a pretzel bit found on the floor in his mouth, you wouldn’t consider calling 911, as you may at LaGuardia. Amelia marveled, “This isn’t even like an airport…” I couldn’t agree more, I said. I felt hopeful.

She’s not beyond noticing when I’m not nearby. At Sheraton at the Falls, the pool area has two tropical aquariums. If you upgrade to a club-level room, well worth the splurge, you get free breakfast, hot food and all, so there is minimal morning rushing. And then at 5pm, they have gratis beer and wine and hearty snacks laid out, conveniently in a lovely glass-enclosed space right next to the pool. So there I sat, with my pinot noir, waving to Amelia when she looked up to see where I was. Wait! Did she just look around to see where I was? I’m still allowed to help her. Yes, it’s kitschy, and been around forever, but we donned the garbage bags they hand out as ponchos and boarded Maid of the Mist. How wet could we get, I wondered? I’ll just say this: If you go to Cave of the Winds first, keep the foam sandals they give you. This boat ride gives you a perspective you really can’t get any other way. When we got off, we looked like two madwomen, our hair wet yet somehow still windblown, and black mascara streaks running down our cheeks, donned in foam sandals and bright blue trash bags. We laughed. “Can you get my face?” she asked. I wiped her cheeks with a tissue. She did not say I was too close to her face. My utensils are not necessarily contaminated. When we arrived at Hibbard’s Original Frozen Custard in nearby Lewiston, which we were told has the custard to end all custard, Amelia tried the thick soft serve in cookies and cream. I got black raspberry. We ate our treats at picnic tables. She tried mine, off of my spoon, without saying “Ew, no…” She knows better than me sometimes. I’m the one who climbs the 377 steps to the crown of the Statue of Liberty, then, frozen in fear, tells everyone I’ll meet them back down in the lobby. I didn’t share Amelia’s enthusiasm about a Rainbow Air helicopter ride over the Falls. But she cajoled me, saying it would be fine, and what could happen when they do 40 rides a day, and she would hold my hand if she “really had to.” The floor was see-through. So unless I closed my eyes the whole time, there was no way to avoid seeing that I was really, really, really high up. I resolved not to let my 14-year-old daughter, who was giddy with excitement, see me close my eyes. And it was awesome.

Christina and Amelia Vercelletto prepare for a helicopter ride over Niagara Falls.

Somehow, it didn’t bother me as much as I anticipated, though admittedly I avoided looking down at the floor. I just told myself I was on a plane, which somehow doesn’t bother me. Taking in the amazing views knowing I would only be able to see them for five minutes of my life distracted me from my distance from the Earth. She’s not too old for the Rainforest Café. Who else remembers this place? They had a few around here years ago. It’s fun, what with the indoor thunderstorms and animatronic tigers and all, but it’s definitely a place for kids. Something Amelia has been insisting she no longer is for a good two years now. But it was getting late, we were hungry, and the Rainforest Café is attached to the lobby of Sheraton at the Falls. You don’t even have to go outside. Turned out, she loved it. We shared a monstrous plate of nachos we barely put a dent in, and then she dug into pasta with veggies. I had a surprisingly good steak. Surprisingly because, well, steak at a kid’s place seemed dicey. But the gamble paid off. Seeing her sip raspberry lemonade from a plastic kid’s cup made my night. A little bit of the paranormal makes history cool. At my insistence, we hit a bounty of historic (read: educational) attractions just outside of Niagara Falls. The first was the NYPA Niagara Power Vista in Lewiston, with sophisticated, teenfriendly exhibits that made all that science information relatable to their day-to-day lives. Amelia didn’t emerge a hydropower genius, but she loved the motion simulator ride that replicates the journey of a single drop of water as it turns into energy. The ride sprays mist all over you, perchance we didn’t have enough back at the Falls. Go to Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown before or after the Power Vista, since they are only 10 minutes apart. At the fort, we explored the very same buildings that were occupied by NativeAmerican, French, British, and American soldiers in the 18th century, and got a feel for what life at the fort was like with reenactments by blacksmiths, coopers, and bakers. Our tour guide told us the story of a local newspaper reporter who wanted to stay overnight in one of the buildings that was reputed to be haunted. He barely lasted two hours. An episode of the erstwhile Syfy series Ghost Hunters had been filmed here. Amelia and I used to love that show—but when she got to be 12, she became lots less interested in watching TV with mom than staring at YouTube. The next day, we ventured underground at the Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride. As part of the 70-minute guided tour, you walk through a misty water tunnel that was blasted out of solid rock, and examine artifacts left behind by the Irish immigrants who did the work in the early days of the Erie Canal. Our tour guide, who was quite the character, informed us that if water drips on your head, it’s a year of good luck. Well, our tour group now has enough luck for our children’s children. I don’t think it’s going too far to bring an umbrella. The boat ride is a damp proposition, too. (Clearly, there is no eluding water in these parts.) A zip line across the canal is coming soon, they told us. And—what are the odds!—this tunnel was also the site of a Ghost Hunters episode. When we got back to our room that night, Amelia and I stayed up and streamed the episodes. Just like the good old days. Christina Vercelletto is a travel writer and a former editor at NYMetroParents, Parenting, Scholastic Parent & Child, and Woman’s Day. She lives on Long Island with her kids, a chiweenie, Pickles, and a 20-pound calico, Chub-Chub.

BrooklynParent 23

OUTINGS: Pleasantville, Westchester

nymetroparents.com/outings

5 Reasons We Love Pleasantville

Nature, film, and charm just a train ride from Manhattan. ›› By Kathryn Sheridan 2 Courtesy Jacob Burns Film Center

Courtesy Pleasantville Farmers Market

3 Courtesy New York State Parks

1 Jacob Burns Film Center offers a variety of indie, foreign, and documentary film screenings. 2 The Pleasantville Farmers Market often offers live music and entertainment for kids, such as Marco the Magician. 3 The Rockefeller State Park Preserve consists of more than 1,000 acres of picturesque land as well as Swan Lake.

he appropriately named village of Pleasantville in Westchester County has all the charm of a small community while boasting the benefits that come from being a train ride away from Manhattan. Pleasantville is familiar worldwide to the subscribers of Reader’s Digest, which made the village its headquarters and maintains a presence there. The village was noted in GQ’s list of “Top Ten Best Smelling Cities in the World.” They write, “If Norman Rockwell’s paintings emitted a scent, this is what it would be.” Here are the five reasons we love Pleasantville.

A Movie-Buff’s Haven

Credited with putting Pleasantville on the cultural map, the nonprofit Jacob Burns Film Center draws moviegoers in for screenings of indie, foreign, and documentary films. Film industry powerhouses such as George Clooney, Woody Allen, Robert Redford, and Stephen King have made guest appearances and speeches at the landmark theater. Programs and classes are offered for kids and adults of all ages to learn about film, storytelling, and production.

Fresh Produce Year-Round

Since 1998, the Pleasantville Farmers Market has provided year-round access to healthy, locally grown food. Today, it is the largest farmers market in Westchester County with more than 55 vendors and it attracts upwards of 2,500 people each week. Weekly vendors are posted on its website along with an interactive map so visitors can locate and learn more about them. Through Nov. 18 the market is located next to the Metro-North station at Memorial Plaza on Saturdays from 8:30am-1pm. Most weeks May-October the outdoor market features live music and events for kids, as well as health and culinary events. During the winter, Dec. 2-March 24, 2018 the market is housed in the local middle school on Saturdays from 8:30am-1pm.

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

The Preservation of Nature

Offering hiking trails, fishing, and panoramic views of the Hudson River, the Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a favorite outdoor destination of Pleasantville residents. The park consists of more than 1,000 acres of picturesque land donated by the Rockefeller family. The system of carriage roads created by John D. Rockefeller, a horse-lover, remain in use in the park. In the fall guests can enjoy peak fall foliage and in the spring visitors can view the Peony Monument’s 425 tree peonies in bloom next to the Rockefeller Art Gallery, which has rotating exhibits of two-dimensional arts.

Indie Literature Lovers

Located just around the corner from the Pleasantville Metro-North station, the Village Bookstore is an old-fashioned wonderland of good reads. The store also hosts author readings and poetry contests. Its most famous customers might be Bill and Hillary Clinton, who live in nearby Chappaqua and adopted the store after their local bookstore closed.

The Live Music Scene

Every year on a Saturday in July, thousands flock to the village for the Pleasantville Music Festival. The all-day event features a mix of established musicians and bands and newcomers on two stages. Families can bring blankets and chairs to enjoy a day of live rock and blues tunes during the next festival, July 14, 2018.

Want to Go?

Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 40-minute subway and Metro-North ride from Park Slope For more information: nymetroparents.com/pleasantville

Ideas When You Need Them:

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Turn the page for details on Holiday Handmade Cavalcade Brooklyn (No. 9 on our list).

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nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: ROSALIND MUGGERIDGE bkcal@davlermedia.com

DECEMBER CALENDAR

Editor’s Hot Tickets

Mini Musicians

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Crafty Kids

Dance Party

Movers & Shakers

Show Time!

Browse & Buy, Holiday Fun

Smarty Pants

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!

NYRR Jingle Bell Jog & Reindeer Run

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 8:30am-10pm, see website for session times WHERE: Prospect Park, The Nethermead, Center Drive, Park Slope AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: More than 5,000 runners, including children of all ages and abilities, will don antler headbands, jingle bells on their sneakers, and other holiday gear as they participate in the annual NYRR Jingle Bell Jog. As part of the 5k benefit race, NYRR is also hosting the “Reindeer Run,” a nearly ¾ of a mile race for children ages 7-12. WHY WE LOVE IT: Holiday-themed running attire and post-race hot chocolate will contribute to the cheerful and jovial morning. WANT TO GO? $50 Jingle Jog; free for Reindeer Run. nyrr.org.

Breakfast with the Animals

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 9-10:30am WHERE: New York Aquarium, Surf Avenue and West 8th Street, Coney Island AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy a light morning meal of “people food” along with child-focused activities incorporating movement, discovery, crafts, and guided and free play opportunities. Education instructors help facilitate an engaging and fun experience for all ages. WHY WE LOVE IT: This fun event ends with an amazing animal encounter. WANT TO GO? $45; $40 members. 718-265-3474. nyaquarium.com.

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Christmas in Richmond Town and Traditional Tree Lighting

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 3, 11am-7pm WHERE: Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave., Staten Island

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

AGES: All WHAT: Share in the holiday spirit, embracing Christmas present and past as Historic Richmond Town lights up the town on one of the most memorable nights of the holiday season. Experience a winter extravaganza that will offer shoppers unique holiday gifts and handmade decorations. WHY WE LOVE IT: The highlight of the event—the holiday tree lighting —is free to attend at 5pm. WANT TO GO? $5; free for children 6 years and younger. 718-3511611. historicrichmondtown.org.

Disney Tim Burton’s ‘The Night Before Christmas’

WHEN: Dec. 6-7, Wednesday-Thursday, 8pm WHERE: Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Prospect Heights AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A cast of singers and special guest artists will perform this popular film’s acclaimed songs live. Conductor John Mauceri will lead the full orchestra and choir performing the film’s classic score and songs live to picture. WHY WE LOVE IT: Tim Burton-inspired costumes are encouraged! WANT TO GO? $31 and up. 800-745-3000. barclayscenter.com.

Awa Sangho

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 10:30am and 2pm WHERE: Peter Jay Sharp Building, BAMcafé, 30 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Mali-born, NYC-based singer-songwriter Awa Sangho is a rising presence on the world music scene, delivering blues- and rock-tinted songs infused with the rhythms and resonance of West Africa. Known

for high-energy performances that showcase her drumming and dancing, she comes to BAM fresh off the release of her debut solo album, Ala Ta, a blend of Afro rhythms and acoustic instrumentation. WHY WE LOVE IT: Sangho’s message reverberates with compassion on a global scale. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-636-4100. bam.org/kids.

INTO OUR GIANT MINIATURE WORLD

Dancewave’s Holiday Fiesta

WHEN: Dec. 9-10, Saturday-Sunday, 3pm and 5pm WHERE: P.S. 133, 610 Baltic St., Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: See Dancewave’s Holiday Fiesta, a fun-filled family event featuring performances by the School at Dancewave, Dancewave Company Program, and Dwave in Motion students. WHY WE LOVE IT: This event brings the community together for two festive days of holiday cheer. WANT TO GO? $13. 917-522-4696. dancewave.org.

‘The Hip Hop Nutcracker’

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 16, 8pm WHERE: Kings Theatre, 1027 Flatbush Ave., Flatbush AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The Hip Hop Nutcracker re-imagines Tchaikovsky’s classic score through explosive hip-hop choreography. The show features a dozen allstar dancers, DJ, violinist, and vivid digital scenery. WHY WE LOVE IT: This unusual production brings the traditional Nutcracker story to life with a contemporary urban twist. WANT TO GO? $29 and up. 718-856-5464. kingstheatre.com.

Beastly Feast with Santa

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 16, 9:30-11am and 1-2:30pm WHERE: Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family to this fun event, which includes a breakfast or lunch buffet, intimate animal encounters, pictures with Santa, holiday songs and music, and holiday-themed activities and crafts. WHY WE LOVE IT: Meet with animals, including a sloth, groundhog, ferret, bird, turtle, lizard, and snake. WANT TO GO? $30; $20 children ages 3-14; free for children 2 and younger. 718-442-3101. statenislandzoo.org. WHEN: Dec. 16-17, Saturday, 11am-6:30pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Historical Society, 128 Pierrepont St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: The NY Handmade Collective, formerly Etsy NY Street Team, is showcasing its collective history as makers, and offering customers something a little bit different and new: the chance to explore the history of making in NYC, past in present. WHY WE LOVE IT: The Cavalcade has nine years worth of history and has become a must for holiday shoppers looking for unique and locally crafted gifts. WANT TO GO? Free admission. 718-415-7951. nyhandmadecollective.org.

216 WEST 44TH STREET gulliversgate.com

We treat:

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

Holiday Handmade Cavalcade Brooklyn

New Year’s Brunch with Lucy Kalantari and the Jazz Cats FREE

MONUMENTAL. MESMERIZING. MINIATURE.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 30, 12:30pm WHERE: Industry City, 220 36th St., Sunset Park AGES: All WHAT: Ring in the New Year with Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats as they perform holiday classics and originals from her third album, It’s the Holidays!, an EP commemorating the holidays between Halloween and New Year’s. WHY WE LOVE IT: The perfect New Year’s Eve celebration for little ones. WANT TO GO? lucykalantari.com. ››

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

(347) 564-3211 www.brooklynallergyDR.com

Skating Season is in Session!

Place a deposit ice skating birthday party during December and receive $100 off PLUS a machine rental choose from snow cone, popcorn or cotton candy! (subject to availability) To learn more, call (718) 758-7551 or visit

AviatorSports.com/birthday-parties

BrooklynParent 27

Santaland FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 24: daily, see website for store hours WHERE: Macy’s, 151 W. 34th St., 8th Floor, Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Visitors will wander through a 13,000-square-foot Christmas Village filled with holiday treasures, the biggest of which is Santa Claus himself. After meeting Santa, guests can buy a photo package. Visits are by reservation only this year. WANT TO GO? 212-494-4495. macys.com/santaland.

Holiday Open House FREE

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

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

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 3, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 990 Washington Ave., Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: Programs include Discovery Workshops for kids, Family Storytime, a winter wildlife nature walk, and a tour inside the Steinhardt Conservatory featuring tropical, desert, and Mediterranean climates. After touring the garden, warm up with seasonal brunch and lunch menus in Yellow Magnolia Cafe. WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 12. 718-623-7200. bbg.org.

The 12th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 4, 5pm WHERE: Pearl Street Triangle, Water Street between Pearl Street and Anchorage Place, Dumbo AGES: All WHAT: This year’s festivities include the lighting of a tree donated by Adam Parke Trees at Windswept Farm, calypso music from Brooklyn-based steel drum band Jah Pan, excerpts from the Nutcracker performed by Dumbo’s Gelsey Kirkland Dance Academy, hot cocoa, a visit from Santa Claus with a photobooth, and a toy drive of unwrapped toys for children for the Big Brooklyn Holiday Toy Drive. WANT TO GO? dumbo.is.

Family Christmas Bird Count FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 16, 10am-12pm WHERE: Prospect Park Audubon Center, Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue, Flatbush AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Blooming Naturalists of all ages can join a tradition more than 100 years in the making. Join Prospect Park Alliance in this nationwide bird census that helps conservation researchers track the long-term health of bird populations. WANT TO GO? 718-287-3400. prospectpark.org. 28

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Dec. 26-28, Tuesday-Thursday, 12-4pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park, Queens AGES: All WHAT: Warm up by the fireplaces of the decorated Adriance Farmhouse at this celebrated annual event. Take a tour of this historic landmark building and enjoy seasonal kids’ crafts and hot mulled cider throughout the afternoon. WANT TO GO? 718-347-3276. queensfarm.org.

CRAFTY KIDS Free Family Art Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 2:30-4pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library - Canarsie Branch, 1580 Rockaway Parkway, Canarsie AGES: All WHAT: Free Family Art Days are opportunities to play, imagine, and explore through a variety of art forms. Each month, our storytellers present crafts, songs, stories, and creative play around a different theme. These events are free for the public thanks to the generous donation of Spellbound supporters. WANT TO GO? 718-257-3547. bklynlibrary.org.

House Party: Truth Be Told FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 12-5pm WHERE: BRIC Arts Media House, 647 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: BRIC’s inclusive and welcoming programming encourages creativity and discovery. Join this event featuring dance classes, gaming, art-making and other participatory activities, culminating in a raucous all-ages dance party. For the December party, families spend the day exploring fact anad fiction and act as the detective, researcher, and judge. WANT TO GO? 718-683-5600. bricartsmedia.org.

Snow Globe Wonderland

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 10, 10:30am WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: A sprinkle of creativity and a dash of imagination are all you need to design and create your own winter wonderland snow globe. WANT TO GO? $6. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Chanukah Art Festival

WHEN: Dec. 13-20, Wednesday-Thursday and Sunday-Wednesday, see website for times WHERE: Jewish Children’s Museum, 792 Eastern Parkway, Crown Heights

Harlem Globetrotters

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: The Harlem Globetrotters bring their 2018 World Tour to Barclays Center to take on their long-time adversaries the Washington Generals. WANT TO GO? $18 and up. 718-933-3000. barclayscenter.com.

New York Road Runners Open Run FREE

AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the ancient art of oil-pressing in an interactive olive pressing workshop, customize a doughnut, create your own bead design to add to the giant dazzling menorah, and experiment with vibrant ink and customizable stencils at a silk-screening workshop. Program varies by day, see website for complete schedule. WANT TO GO? $13. 718-907-8833. jcm.museum.

December Drop-in Play

WHEN: Dec. 2-30, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This month at SPARK, children are encouraged to make unique artworks to share with friends, caregivers, and family members as part of BCM’s month-long Kwanzaa celebration. Explore Adinkra Printing, handprint Kinara paintings, Kwanzaa necklaces, and more. WANT TO GO? $15. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.

GingerBread Lane 2017 Workshops

WHEN: Through Dec. 30: Saturday-Sunday, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens AGES: All WHAT: These workshops will take participants to the road, track, and water with all of the fixings to design a truly sweet car, boat, or train. Each participant will receive a kit with all of the materials that Chef Jon Lovitch uses to create his GingerBread Lane exhibit: gingerbread pieces, icing, and candy. WANT TO GO? $15 per project. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Family Fun Series

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2., 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Mark Morris Dance Center, 3 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Designed for the whole family, you will learn the fundamentals of a variety of dance, fitness, and music genres from Bhangra to salsa, music and singing, hip-hop, and more. WANT TO GO? $25 for a family of 2-3; $30 for a family of 4-6. 718-6248400. markmorrisdancegroup.org.

WHEN: Through Dec. 27: Tuesdays, 7pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 6, Atlantic Avenue and Furman Street, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: A community-based initiative that empowers local volunteers to bring free weekly runs to local neighborhood parks. Open to all ages, experience levels, walkers, strollers, and dogs. WANT TO GO? 718-222-9939. brooklynbridgepark.org.

SPARK by Brooklyn Children’s Museum

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Tuesday and Friday-Sunday, 1-5pm; Wednesday, 1-3pm; Thursday, 1-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: SPARK is an art and play space featuring an outpost of the popular Brooklyn Block Lab exhibit, as well as daily art and design workshops, music classes, birthday parties, and more. WANT TO GO? $15; free on Thursdays. 718-624-4719. brooklynkids.org.

Sundays@Senesh

WHEN: Through March 25, 2018: Sundays, 9am-12pm WHERE: Hannah Senesh Community Day School, 342 Smith St., Carroll Gardens AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This programming and indoor playspace includes a full-size, sunlit gym play area that encourages exploration, interaction, and discovery. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-858-8663. hannahsenesh.org.

Ice Skating Season

WHEN: Through April 2, 2018: Monday-Thursday, 9am-5:15pm; Friday, 9am-9pm; Saturday, 11:30am-9pm; Sunday, 11:30am-5:15pm WHERE: Le Frak Center at Lakeside, Prospect Park, Parkside/Ocean avenues entrance or Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance, Prospect Lefferts Gardens AGES: All WHAT: In addition to public ice skating, the LeFrak Center features figure skating, ice hockey, curling, dining, and an array of special events. WANT TO GO? $6 weekdays; $9 weekends and holidays; $6 skate rentals. 718-462-0010. lakesidebrooklyn.com. ››

Mommy & Me Classes: Wonders of Play

WHEN: Through Dec. 14: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1pm WHERE: RecessDumbo, 81 Washington St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Come and play with your little one. The class includes storytelling, imaginative play, music, arts, and sensory activities. The Tuesday class is for children younger than 1, and the Thursday class is for children 2 and younger. WANT TO GO? $26 drop-in fee. 917-618 1324. playnbeyond.com. BrooklynParent 29

HOLIDAY FUN WinterFest 2017: A Day of Family Fun

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 11am-4pm WHERE: Brooklyn Friends School, 375 Pearl St., Downtown Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Attend WinterFest for workshops, craft activities, shopping, eating, and entertainment, including a free performance by PBS Kids host Steve Songs. WANT TO GO? Free admission. 718-852-1029. brooklynfriends.org/winterfest.

BROWSE & BUY

Sinterklass: Saint Nicholas Day

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 1, 4-9pm WHERE: Bay Ridge, 101st Street and Fort Hamilton Parkway, Bay Ridge AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy this exclusive and diverse holiday experience at the military base and explore unique gifts created by local artisans and artists, traditional food, carousel, Santa, and more. Tree lighting at 5:30pm. WANT TO GO? 718-630-4771. hamilton.armymwr.com.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 1-3pm WHERE: The Wyckoff House Museum, 5816 Clarendon Road, Canarsie AGES: All WHAT: In the Dutch tradition, visitors can feed St. Nicholas’s faithful horse carrots and hay; children are invited to sign the Red Book with St. Nicholas before he tells the traditional tale of The Bakers Dozen; sip hot cider; play colonial games; create a holiday pomander; decorate a Dutch clog for Sinterklaas; and dress the tree for the tree lighting that will close the day. WANT TO GO? $5; $3 children. 718-629-5400. wyckoffmuseum.org.

Brooklyn Waldorf School Winter Fair

8 Days of Klezmer

Fort Hamilton Holiday Market & Tree Lighting Spectacular FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 11am-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Waldorf School, 11 Jefferson Ave., Bedford Stuyvesant AGES: All WHAT: This historic building will be transformed into an array of enchanting worlds for all ages. Hand-dip candles, spin a jump rope, get a treasure from the Pocket Fairy, and shop for handmade crafts and gifts. WANT TO GO? Free admission. 718-783-3270. brooklynwaldorf.org.

Greencycle Holiday Swap

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 12-3pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library - Leonard Branch, 81 Devoe St., Greenpoint AGES: All WHAT: Bring cleaned, gently used, and working items over to Greencycle Swap. All remaining items will be donated to local schools, churches, Goodwilll, and/or Vietnam Vets of America. WANT TO GO? $5 suggested donation. 347-987-2765. townsquareinc.com.

Winter Wonderland Staten Island

WHEN: Through Dec. 23: Thursday-Sunday, 11am WHERE: Richmond County Bank Ballpark, 75 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Laid out on the field of the Richmond County Bank Ballpark, this event will take guests on a trip to a winter alpine village, featuring the wonderful holiday themes and feelings that we all know and love. Attractions include ice-skating, a 34-vendor holiday market, a nightly light show, Santa’s Workshop, and a life sized working Gingerbread House bakery. WANT TO GO? $10; fees vary for activities. 718-816-4506. winterwonderlandsi.com.

Holiday Market

WHEN: Through Dec. 24: Saturday-Sunday, 12-6pm WHERE: Calabar Imports, 351 Tompkins Ave., Bedford Stuyvesant AGES: All WHAT: This market is focused on handmade goods made by artisans, designers, and makers in Brooklyn. WANT TO GO? 718-928-3970. calabar-imports.com. 30

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 3, 3pm WHERE: Kingsborough Community College, The Leon M. Goldstein Performing Arts Center, 2001 Oriental Blvd., Manhattan Beach AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Join this celebration of the Festival of Lights. Explore the unique spirit of klezmer with melodies of joyful sorrow, as well as Gypsy-flavored Hanukkah favorites. WANT TO GO? $30-$32. 718-368-5596. onstageatkingsborough.org.

Santa Brunch

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 9:30am, 11:30am, and 1:30pm WHERE: t.b.d. Brooklyn, 224 Franklin St., Greenpoint AGES: All WHAT: Santa’s coming to Greenpoint for a fun time at t.b.d. Brooklyn. The brunch includes an all-you-can-eat homemade pancake brunch with Santa, music with Rock’n’Lolo, fun arts and crafts, Queen Elsa, and photos with Santa. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 online; $10 for children younger than 1; $5 for children younger than 1 online. 347-599-1410. townsquareinc.com.

Skate with Santa

WHEN: Dec. 2-16, Saturdays, 12-2pm WHERE: Lefrak Center at Lakeside, Parkside/Ocean avenues entrance or Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance, Prospect Park AGES: All

WHAT: Santa’s hitting the ice at Lakeside, every weekend through December. Join him at the LeFrak Center and sign up for a free 15-minute skate lesson at 1pm or 1:15pm to get a taste of the Skate School this holiday season. WANT TO GO? $9; $6 skate rentals. 718-462-0010. lakesidebrooklyn.com.

Candlelight Tours

WHEN: Dec. 9-16, Saturdays, 5-8:30pm WHERE: Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave., Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Journey through 300 years of tradition and discover how America’s most festive season came to be. The town will be illuminated by candles, oil lamps and the warmth of a flickering hearth, and enlivened by holiday sweets. The tour ends with a festive wassail bowl reception in the courthouse. WANT TO GO? $24; $12 for children 12 and younger. 718-351-1611. historicrichmondtown.org.

Plaza and 9th Street. WANT TO GO? 718-965-8951. prospectpark.org.

‘Christmas Spectacular’ Starring the Radio City Rockettes

WHEN: Through Jan. 1: daily, see website for times WHERE: Radio City, 1260 Sixth Ave., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Combining the old with the new, the Christmas Spectacular brilliantly takes audiences on

a gorgeously choreographed journey from Santa’s workshop at the North Pole, to the streets of Manhattan, to a beautifully classic Living Nativity. WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 212247-4777. rockettes.com/christmas.

2017 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree (and Lighting) FREE WHEN: Through Jan. 7, 2018: daily, 5:30am-11:30pm WHERE: Rockefeller Center, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown,

Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Bundle up and squeeze through the crowded sidewalks to see this year’s towering Christmas tree. If you’re keen on seeing the tree lighting, join tens of thousands to see the performances and lighting live, or watch it on TV. The ceremony is on a first-come, first-served basis and starts at 7pm. WANT TO GO? 212-332-6868. rockefellercenter.com. ››

Brunch with Santa

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 17, 9-11am and 12-3pm WHERE: Aviator Sports and Events Center, 3159 Flatbush Ave., Marine Park AGES: All WHAT: This event features a full brunch menu, arts and crafts, cupcake decorating, and a picture with Santa. Adults will also receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $22; $20 for children 13 and younger; free for children younger than 3. 718-7587565. aviatorsports.com.

New Year’s Eve in Prospect Park FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 31, 11pm WHERE: Prospect Park/Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Park West and Grand Army Plaza, Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: Join Prospect Park Alliance for this annual fireworks celebration. Help kick off the New Year with fireworks, live music, and more. Locations for viewing the fireworks include Grand Army Plaza, the park’s West Drive, and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army

On View Now Baboon Appliqué from an Animal Mummy (detail). Possibly from Saqqara, Egypt. Ptolemaic Period, 305–30 B.C.E. Linen, 5½ x 2 in. (14.2 x 5.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum; Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 37.272E. (Photo: Gavin Ashworth, Brooklyn Museum)

BrooklynParent 31

Brandenburgers Holiday Concert

WHEN: Dec. 16-17, Saturday, 7pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: The Old Stone House, Washington Park, Third Street and 5th Avenue, Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: The house band, the Brooklyn Brandenburgers, will perform its annual holiday concert featuring music by Georg Philipp Telemann, W. A. Mozart, Gene Glickman, Astor Piazzolla, Arthur Foote, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Johann Sebastian Bach. WANT TO GO? $10; free for children younger than 16. 718-768-3195. oldstonehouse.org.

Rock and Roll for Kids

MINI

MUSICIANS Events for Youth and Families: Come on Over and Dance with the Suzi Shelton Band FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 17: Sundays, 11am WHERE: Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Ave., Williamsburg AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The Rock and Roll Playhouse uses music to educate children and explore their creativity. This unique program is designed to keep children moving, playing, and singing while simultaneously listening to classic tunes and reaching developmental milestones. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-963-3369. brooklynbowl.com.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 1pm WHERE: Brooklyn Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: Award-winning singer-songwriter and local family favorite Suzi Shelton will perform a fun-filled show with her band that will engage and inspire your kids to come on over and dance. Packed with songs that are upbeat and heart-felt, Suzi will showcase tunes from her soon-to-bereleased album, as well as old favorites like “Go, FireTruck, Go,” “Cinnamon Bear,” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org.

Stomp, Clap, and Sing with Mil’s Trills FREE

Stomp, Clap, and Sing with Jeremy Plays Guitar FREE

Neighborhood Family Concerts FREE

Los Pleneros de la 21: ‘Christmas in El Barrio’

Little Orchestra Society Presents the Three C’s… Culture, Classical Music, and Composing

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 5, 11am-12pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library, Central Branch, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Grab your kids for a sing-along dance party with the educational band Jeremy Plays Guitar. WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org. WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 10, 3pm WHERE: Kumble Theater, 1 University Plaza, Fort Greene AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Los Pleneros de la 21 is an East Harlem traditional performing music group and nonprofit organization created to foster awareness and appreciation of bomba and plena, two Puerto Rican cultural expressions. The unique sound combines the raw percussion elements of bomba and plena music with contemporary and urban genres like jazz, salsa, and even hip-hop. WANT TO GO? $25; $12.50 for children 12 and younger. 718-951-4500. brooklyncenter.org.

The Knights: A Brooklyn Schubertiade Family Matinee

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 10, 2pm WHERE: BRIC Arts Media House, 647 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: At this performance, The Knights cozy up to an intimate afternoon of poetry, music, song, and art, including Brooklyn-based composer Angelica Negron. WANT TO GO? $12; $10 in advance. 718-683-5600. bricartsmedia.org. 32

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 19, 11am-12pm WHERE: Brooklyn Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Mil’s Trills is a children’s music project led by Amelia Robinson that invites families to celebrate the community through original tunes and a cast of musical guests. A highly interactive experience, audiences are encouraged to be part of the show and discover a world of instruments. WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org. WHEN: Through Dec. 23: Saturdays, 4pm WHERE: Bargemusic, 334 Furman St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Walk across the gangplank of a renovated coffee barge for a 1-hour, family-friendly performance, including a Q-and-A session with the musicians. WANT TO GO? 718-624-4924. bargemusic.org.

WHEN: Through Dec. 28: Thursdays, 3pm and 4pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: The Little Orchestra Society is in residence at Brooklyn Children’s Museum for a series of family music workshops. Each session explores music of a different culture, engaging children, parents, and caregivers through movement, song, composition, and an introduction to world instruments. WANT TO GO? $11. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

The Yellow Sneaker Puppet Show

WHEN: Through March 14, 2018: Wednesdays, 10-10:45am WHERE: Blue Marble Ice Cream, 186 Underhill Ave., Prospect Heights AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Kids will love this 45 minute interactive sing-along with puppets, combining original songs, oldies, and traditional children’s music. Bring your little ones to sing, clap, dance, and shake their sillies out. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 siblings. 718-399-6926. bluemarbleicecream.com.

DANCE PARTY Moscow Ballet’s ‘Great Russian Nutcracker’

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: Kings Theatre, 1027 Flatbush Ave., Flatbush AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate this Christmas with the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, featuring over-the-top production values and world-class Russian artists. Larger-than-life puppets and nesting dolls and gloriously hand-crafted costumes bring the Christmas spirit of life. WANT TO GO? $45 and up. 718-856-5464. kingstheatre.com.

‘The Nutcracker Ballet’

Community Dance Class FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 11, 6:30pm WHERE: BRIC House Ballroom, 647 Fulton St., Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: All ages and skill levels are welcome to join this series of community dance classes taught by Ronald K. Brown and members of his company, Evidence, A Dance Company, which blends traditional African dance with contemporary choreography and spoken word providing a unique view of human struggles, tragedies, and triumphs. WANT TO GO? 718-683-5600. bricartsmedia.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 2pm WHERE: Master Theater, 1029 Brighton Beach Ave., Brighton Beach AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The New York Children’s Dance Theater and Nika Ballet Studio present his classic Christmas fairy tale that tells the story of a young girl named Mari, how she dreamed of the brave Nutcracker Prince, their amazing journey to the Kingdom of Sweets, and a fierce battle against the Mouse Queen. WANT TO GO? $25-$55. 718-732-3838. mastertheater.com.

Events for Youth and Families: Fiesta Flamenca FREE

‘Nutcracker Sweets’

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 17, 3pm WHERE: Kingsborough Community College, The Leon M. Goldstein Performing Arts Center, 2001 Oriental Blvd., Manhattan Beach AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The Nutcracker, a perennial holiday favorite, is an enchanting adventure through a little girl’s fantasy world of fairies, princes, toy soldiers, and an army of mice. Be transported by this full-scale production, with Tchaikovsky’s wondrous score, choreography by world-renowned Marius Petipa and The Mariinsky’s Vasily Vainonen, and 40 of Russia’s brightest ballet stars in glorious costumes. WANT TO GO? $30-$32. 718-368-5596. onstageatkingsborough.org. ››

WHEN: Dec. 7-10, Thursday-Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: GK ArtsCenter, 29 Jay St., Dumbo AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy this holiday performance showcasing the Professional Training Program students of Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet. The performance includes Act 2 of The Nutcracker and other classical ballet excerpts, including Sleeping Beauty, Le Corsaire, and Flames of Paris. WANT TO GO? $25; $10 for children 12 and younger. 212-600-0047. gkartscenter.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 16, 1pm WHERE: Brooklyn Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana invites you to experience the cultural richness and traditions of flamenco with a holiday flair. WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org.

‘The Nutcracker’

BrooklynParent 33

‘Little Red Riding Hood’

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 15, 7pm WHERE: The Brooklyn Music School Theater, 126 Saint Felix St., Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: Presented by young musical theater performers, this imaginative production will feature the classic and original characters highlighting Little Red’s journey through the unfamiliar woods and her encounter with the clever trickster wolf. In this production, the creatures of the forest and trees come alive as the mother’s song echoes through the entire journey. WANT TO GO? $20; free for children 11 and younger. 917-605-0662. brooklynmusicschool.org.

‘Pinocchio’

WHEN: Through Dec. 17: Saturday-Sunday, 12:30pm and 2:30pm WHERE: Puppetworks, 338 6th Ave., Park Slope AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy Carlo Collodi’s beloved folktale from 1883, Adventures of a Marionette. The show was adapted for marionettes by Nicolas Coppola. WANT TO GO? $11; $10 for children younger than 12. 718-965-3391. puppetworks.org.

SHOW TIME The Cybertronic Spree

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 2pm WHERE: Peter Jay Sharp Building, BAMcafé, 30 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Transformers from planet Cybertron traverse an interplanetary space bridge to grace BAM with the most metal of sci-fi anthems. Covering the original 1986 soundtrack to The Transformers: The Movie, plus a handful of other kid-approved 80s tunes, this band of robot rockers is sure to bring smiles and headbangs to cartoon lovers of all ages. Come dressed as your favorite cartoon or robot character. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-636-4100. bam.org/kids.

Ken Burns Presents Restored ‘The Brooklyn Bridge’ with Q&A WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 7, 7pm WHERE: Brooklyn Museum, Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Auditorium, 3rd Floor, 200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns presents the first public screening of his newly restored Academy Award-nominated documentary The Brooklyn Bridge. The screening is followed by a discussion with Burns and New York Times reporter Jim Dwyer. WANT TO GO? $16. 718-638-5000. brooklynmuseum.org.

Events for Youth and Families: ‘Scrooge’ FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 9, 1pm WHERE: Brooklyn Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: This holiday musical tradition, based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, A Christmas Carol, tells the story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he learns the true spirit of the holidays. Presented by Plaza Theatrical Productions Inc. WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org.

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

‘Interstellar Cinderella’

WHEN: Through Dec. 17: Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: New York City Children’s Theater, The Beckett Theatre, 410 W. 42nd St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Cinderella of the future is an engineer hoping to revolutionize space travel with a new invention. She’s eager to show the prince her hyper warp speed engine at the space parade, but her evil stepmother tries to get in the way. WANT TO GO? $29.25. 212-573-8791. nycchildrenstheater.org.

‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’

WHEN: Through Dec. 30: Saturdays and select weekdays, 11am WHERE: St. Luke’s Theatre, 308 W. 46th St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A highly theatrical adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ classic book brings audiences along as Peter, Susan, Lucy, and Edmund courageously battle the forces of evil, discovering that love is the deepest magic of all. WANT TO GO? $35. 212-239-6200. narniaoffbroadway.com.

‘The Three Bears Holiday Bash’

WHEN: Through Dec. 30: Tuesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre in Central Park, West 81st Street and Central Park West, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: This holiday variety show combines song, dance, and puppetry while drawing from the stories of Hanukkah, the Night Before Christmas, and Kwanzaa. WANT TO GO? $12; $8 children. 212-360-1399. cityparksfoundation.org.

Magic at Coney

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Sundays, 12pm. No show Dec. 24. WHERE: Coney Island Museum, 1208 Surf Ave., Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a magical variety show highlighting a vast array of magicians and featuring illusionists, escape artists, and mentalists from around the world. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 for children 12 and younger. 718-372-5159. coneyisland.com.

SMARTY PANTS Science Saturday FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 2, 11am-2pm WHERE: P.S./I.S. 121 Magnet School of Applied Life Sciences, 5301 20th Ave., Mapleton AGES: All WHAT: Learn science through engaging activities conducted by staff and PTA. WANT TO GO? 718-377-8845. publicschool121.org.

Get Kinetic

WHEN: Dec. 2-10, Friday-Saturday, 1:30-2:15pm WHERE: New York Transit Museum, Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Downtown Brooklyn AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Inspired by Rube Goldberg devices, this workshop involves joining a team to plan and construct wacky, winding machines of miraculous motion. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 2-17. 718-694-1600. nytransitmuseum.org.

City of Science 2017: Brooklyn FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 10, 10am-4pm WHERE: Park Slope Armory YMCA, 361 15th St., South Slope AGES: All WHAT: Join the World Science Festival and Con Edison for this largerthan-life, touring event during which the wondrous properties of science, technology, engineering, and math collide. Filled with interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities, and enormous exhibitions, this program unleashes everyone’s inner scientist. WANT TO GO? 212-348-1400. worldsciencefestival.com.

Library Lab: Coding FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 20: Wednesdays, 4pm WHERE: Brooklyn Central Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Heights AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore science, technology, engineering, and math concepts with fun, free activities that will spark curiosity through hands-on experiments. WANT TO GO? 718-230-2100. bklynlibrary.org.

Train Operators Workshop

WHEN: Through Dec. 23: Saturday-Sunday, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: New York Transit Museum, Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Downtown Brooklyn AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Drop by the Computer Lab to take control of a NYC subway car and operate it over virtual miles of track in this realistic game. WANT TO GO? $7; $5 seniors and children ages 2-17. 718-694-1792. nytransitmuseum.org.

Brooklyn Block Lab and Studio

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Thursday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: In the museum’s second floor studio, which focuses on art and architecture, visitors of all ages develop their engineering skills as they engage in open block play with large Imagination Playground blocks and table top sized Kapla Planks and Magnatiles, as well as artist James Paulius’ house-shaped wooden blocks and pegs from his installation Sky Village. WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

Soulful Creatures: Animal Mummies in Ancient Egypt

WHEN: Through Jan. 21, 2018: Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: The mummification of animals in Egypt has remained largely a mystery. This exhibit explores the religious purpose of these mummies, how they were made, and why there are so many. WANT TO GO? $16; $10 students and seniors; free for children 19 and younger. 718-638-5000. brooklynmuseum.org.

From Fulton Ferry: Building Downtown Brooklyn

WHEN: Through March 31, 2018: Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: New York Transit Museum, Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Downtown Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Using archival photographs and objects from the museum’s extensive collection, this exhibit celebrates centuries of investment and innovation in transportation that made the evolution of Downtown Brooklyn possible, and explores transportation’s key role in the commercial and residential development of Brooklyn and the Greater New York region. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 2-17. 718-694-1600. nytransitmuseum.org.

Kid Fun Days

WHEN: Dec. 27-28, Wednesday-Thursday, 12-3pm WHERE: Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway, Staten Island AGES: All WHAT: Visit the zoo for an exciting school recess break with ongoing activities, fun crafts, a wildlife movie, and animal presentations. Meet in the Tropical Forest, Africa wing and Reptile wing where you will see animals that live in warmth year round. WANT TO GO? $10; $6 children ages 3-14. 718-442-3101. statenislandzoo.org.

Coming up next month: JAN. 6, 2018: Neighborhood Concert: Sinkane at Brooklyn Museum, Prospect Heights JAN. 11-12, 2018: B – The Underwater Bubble Show at St. George Theatre, Staten Island JAN. 15, 2018: The 32nd Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at BAM Howard Gilman Opera House, Fort Greene

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WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

››

Research by Melissa Wickes

Bring holiday cheer and family bonding from the farm to your home by cutting your own Christmas tree this winter. Head to a local tree farm and spend a few fun hours seeking out your family’s perfect tree, then cut it yourself. You can also load up on some festive wreaths, garlands, and baked goods to make the holiday merry and bright! As always, call ahead of time to confirm hours and tree availability before planning your adventure. and assistance provided. Pre-cut trees, handmade wreaths, and crafts also available. Santa appearances on weekends, 12-5pm. Shamrock Express train rides (weather permitting) and a fire pit to enjoy while you’re waiting for your ride. Ornaments, nutcrackers, tree toppers, and more available in the gift shop. No pets allowed.

New Jersey

Long Island Elwood Pumpkin Farm 1500 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-368-8626; elwoodpumpkinfarm. com/elwood-christmas-tree-farm Nov. 23-Dec. 24, weekdays, 3pm-dusk, and weekends, 10am-dusk. Pre-cut tree lot is open every day until 7pm. Bring your own saw to cut your tree. Staff will help you tie your tree to your car (no charge). Grandpa Tony’s Tree Farm 305 Weeks Ave., Manorville 516-639-3587 Nov. 27-Dec. 24, daily, 8am-4:30pm. Call to schedule an appointment. Matt’s Christmas Tree Farm 309 Weeks Ave., Manorville 631-874-6260 mattschristmastreefarm.com Nov. 24-Dec 24, Wednesday-Monday, 8am-4:30pm. More than 10,000 trees ranging from 2-foot table toppers to 10foot ceiling scrapers. Bow saws and netting available. Trailer rides back from the field.

Loading and tying assistance provided. Candy canes available for kids. Leashed dogs welcome. Potted trees also available. Mike’s Christmas Tree Farm 323 Weeks Ave., Manorville 631-874-3551; mikeschristmastreefarm.com Nov. 24-Dec. 24, daily, 8am-4:30pm. Fresh wreaths also available. Tree wrapping and saws provided. Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm 30105 Main Road, Cutchogue 631-734-8641; santaschristmastreefarm.com Thanksgiving weekend through December (until inventory sells out), daily, 9am6pm; call to check availability. Tools and assistance provided. Santa appearances on weekends. Christmas shop on premises. Tree shaker and free saws available; no chainsaws allowed. Shamrock Christmas Tree Farm 20685 Main Road, Mattituck 631-298-4619 or 631-298-4118 shamrockchristmastreefarm.com Nov. 24-Dec. 24, daily, 9am-5pm. Tools

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Morris County Hidden Pond Tree Farm 4 W. Field Road, Mendham 973-865-6362; hiddenpondtreefarm.com Nov. 24-Dec. 20, Tuesday-Sunday, 9am5pm. Pre-cut trees also available. All trees grown at the farm are pesticide-free. Refreshments available. Free hay rides (weather permitting). Marshmallow roasting around the bonfire and free hot chocolate on weekends. Christmas shop with wreaths, greenery, centerpieces, and other decorations. After the first weekend, call for updates on availability before visiting. Rolling Green Farm 61 Hacklebarney Road, Long Valley 908-879-7457 Nov. 24-Dec. 24, Black Friday and weekends, 10am-5pm. Cut your own trees. Wreaths, tree sprays, and antiques for sale in the shop. Sussex County Country Heritage Farm 129 Plains Road, Augusta 973-875-5590; countryheritagefarm.com Nov. 24-Dec. 18, weekends, 9am-4pm. Saws provided. Christmas shop with decorations, ornaments, wreaths, holly, tree stands, and garland on-site. Hayride to haul tree back from field provided. Giordano’s Tree Farm 350 Route 94 S. (at Hilltop Drive), Newton 908-231-8847; giordanostreefarm.com Dec. 2-3, Saturday-Sunday, 8:30am-dark.

Saws and tree wrapping provided. Santa visits. Ten-foot trees available. More than 1,000 trees up to 9 feet tall, dozens of trees as tall as 20 feet. All trees are $42. Assistance is available for wrapping and tying to car. Bailing available. Holiday Tree Farm 44 Augusta Hill Road, Augusta 973-948-7488 holidaytreefarmnj.com Nov. 24-Dec. 18, Friday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. Saws provided. Christmas shop on premises with wreaths for sale. Shale Hills Farm 98 Pond School Road, Sussex 973-875-4231 shalehillsfarm.com Nov. 24-Dec. 24, weekends only, 9:30am-dark. Santa appearances throughout the day. Christmas movies in the hayloft and a petting zoo full of animals in the barn. Stonerow Tree Farm 242 Wykertown Road, Branchville 973-875-7968 (farm) 973-948-6463 (office) stonerowfarm.com Opens Nov. 25, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-4pm. Douglas Fir, Blue Spruce, Fraser Fir, and Cannon Fir trees on sale for $50. Saws and twine available. Dogs welcome on a leash. Warren County Evergreen Valley Christmas Tree Farm 77 Jackson Valley Road, Washington 908-835-0557 evergreenvalleychristmastrees.com Nov. 24-Dec. 24, Friday-Saturday, 10am-sundown; Sunday-Thursday, 12pm-sundown. Tools and assistance provided. Wagon rides and hot chocolate available on weekends. Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm, LLC 249 County Road 519, Belvidere 908-475-4508; wyckoffs.com

Nov. 24-Dec. 24, daily, 8am4:30pm. Christmas barn open weekends, 9am-4:30pm. Country gift shop with holiday decorations open 9am-4:30pm weekends only. Hayrides on weekends only, weather permitting. Thousands of trees available. Leashed dogs welcome. Middlesex County Barclay’s Tree Farm 35 Orchardside Drive, Cranbury

609-799-1855 barclaystreefarm.com Nov. 24-Dec. 24, weekends, 9am-5pm. Tools and assistance provided. Fresh plain or decorated wreaths and tree stands for sale. Leashed dogs allowed. Simonson Farms Two locations: 260 Dey Road and 120 Cranbury Neck Road, Cranbury

609-799-0140 simonsonfarms.com Nov 24.-Dec 23, weekdays, 12-7pm (weather permitting), and weekends, 9am-6pm. Saws provided and free netting is available. Santa visits on the weekends of Nov. 24-Dec. 16. Wreaths available for purchase.

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

BrooklynParent 37

WHERE-TO GUIDE

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Kid-Friendly Museums

›› Research by Barbara Russo

Courtesy New York Transit Museum

Dig up dirt on extinct species, go back in time with a history lesson, and immerse yourself in another culture without leaving your own backyard—all of this is possible at local children’s museums! There’s no shortage of exciting destinations where your kids can soak up equal parts education and excitement. All of these museums have exhibits specifically geared toward the kid crowd, so no one will be disappointed when you set out on your adventure. Most destinations even have tours, so you and your kids can become experts on presidents, dinosaurs, tornados, or whatever you wish, all in a day’s admission! Hours and exhibitions are subject to change—please call ahead or check the website to confirm. This museum celebrates Jewish culture through hands-on exhibits focusing on Jewish holidays, biblical history, the land of Israel, and contemporary Jewish life. It features multimedia exhibits, an art gallery, two state-of-the-art computer labs, a game show studio, a 75-seat audiovisual theater, a miniature golf course, and a craft workshop. Micro Museum 123 Smith St., Boerum Hill 718-797-3116; micromuseum.com Hours: Saturday, 12-7pm (walk-in hours); Sunday-Friday, 9am-9pm (bookings or appointments only) Admission: $2 Dedicated to big art, this small venue in downtown Brooklyn features interactive media and visual and performing arts. Kids can get behind the wheel of a vintage bus in the On the Streets exhibit at the New York Transit Museum in Downtown Brooklyn.

Brooklyn Children’s Museum 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights 718-735-4400; brooklynkids.org Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm; Thursdays, 10am-6pm Admission: $11; free for members and children younger than 1; free for all on Thursdays, 2-6pm This colorful museum includes permanent exhibits such as Neighborhood Nature, where kids can take on the role of field scientists to observe life forms and document the environment of a freshwater pond, saltwater beach, urban woodland, and community garden; Totally Tots, an early learner exhibit for kids ages 5 and younger that includes Water Wonders, Art Studio, Building Zone, and Little Theater; and World Brooklyn, where visitors can take a trip through Brooklyn (or at least, a childsized model of the city), to learn about its diversity through the stories of real people and places. 38

Brooklyn Museum 200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights 718-638-5000; brooklynmuseum.org Hours: Wednesday, 11am-6pm; Thursday, 11am-10pm; Friday-Sunday, 11am-6pm Admission: Suggested contribution: $16; $10 students and seniors; free for ages 19 and younger Housed in a 560,000-square-foot BeauxArts building, it is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S. with world-renowned permanent art collections. The museum is located close to Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and the Prospect Park Zoo. Jewish Children’s Museum 792 Eastern Parkway, Crown Heights 718-467-0600; jcm.museum Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10am-4pm; Sunday, 10am-5:30pm Admission: $13; $10 seniors; free for children younger than 2

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

New York Transit Museum 99 Schermerhorn St., Downtown Brooklyn 718-694-1600; nytransitmuseum.org Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm Admission: $10; $5 children and seniors; seniors free on Wednesdays At the largest museum in the U.S. dedicated to urban public transportation history, galleries showcase the tale of building NYC’s 113-year-old subway system. Housed underground in an authentic 1936 subway station in Downtown Brooklyn, the Transit Museum’s working platform level spans a full city block and is home to a rotating selection of 20 vintage subway and elevated cars dating back to 1907.

Manhattan 9/11 Memorial Museum 180 Greenwich St., Financial District 212-312-8800; 911memorial.org Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 9am-8pm; Friday-Saturday, 9am-9pm. Last entry:

Sunday-Thursday, 6pm; Friday, 7pm Admission: $24; $18 seniors, veterans, and college students; $15 children ages 7-17; free for members and children younger than 7 The 9/11 Memorial Museum offers age-appropriate entry points into the history of the World Trade Center, 9/11, and its aftermath. On Saturdays, children can participate in drop-in activity stations tied to artifacts and themes. All programs are free to ticketed museum visitors. American Museum of Natural History Central Park West at 79th Street, Upper West Side 212-769-5100; amnh.org Hours: daily, 10am-5:45pm Admission: Suggested donation: $23; $18 students and seniors; $13 children ages 2-12 One of the largest museums in the world, the collections are made up of more than 32 million specimens and artifacts. Currently on view: The Titanosaur, open through Jan. 19, 2020, the fossil remains of a recently discovered 122-footlong dinosaur. Center for Architecture 536 LaGuardia Place, Soho 212-358-6133; cfafoundation.org Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am8pm; Saturday, 11am-5pm Admission: FREE The Center for Architecture promotes understanding and appreciation of architecture and design through educational programs for K-12 schools, families, and the general public. Learn more about the buildings and streetscapes that make up our city by visiting the galleries with changing exhibitions on current topics in architecture, or by attending one of the hands-on design workshops. Programs include 2-hour weekend family workshops, birthday parties, summer and vacation design studios, field trips for school groups, and inschool residencies.

Children’s Museum of Manhattan The Tisch Building, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side 212-721-1223; cmom.org Hours: Sunday and Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday and Monday public school holidays, 10am-7pm. Monday closed for winter except for school groups. Admission: $14; $11 seniors; free for children younger than 1; free for all the first Friday of each month, 5-8pm CMOM inspires kids to learn about themselves and the world around them through interactive exhibits and programs such as America to Zanzibar: Muslim Cultures Near and Far, in which children and families celebrate the diversity of Muslim cultures through art, architecture, design, and music. PlayWorks: A permanent exhibit where children ages 4 and younger feed alphabet letters to a talking dragon, drive a fire truck, and more while exploring language, art, science, and imagination. Let’s Dance!: Visitors bounce, glide, and leap in an exhibit space designed to introduce children and families to the delights of dance. Children’s Museum of the Arts 103 Charlton St., Soho 212-274-0986; cmany.org Hours: Monday, 12-5pm; Thursday-Friday, 12-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm Admission: $12; pay as you wish for seniors; free for children younger than 1; pay as you wish Thursdays, 4-6pm A hands-on arts museum that engages young artists with a clay bar, fine art studio, WEE space (for ages 5 and younger), and a media lab and sound booth. DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society 170 Central Park West at Richard Gilder Way, Upper West Side 212-873-3400; nyhistory.org

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, 10am-6pm; Friday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. Admission: $21; $16 seniors, educators, and active military; $13 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for kids younger than 4; pay as you wish Fridays, 6-8pm. Admission includes entrance into the New-York Historical Society. Located on the lower level of the New-York Historical Society, this is the first-ever museum that brings American history to life through the eyes of children. Targeted toward ages 8-13, the museum features life stories of a diverse selection of youngsters who lived in NYC from the late 17th to the 20th centuries. Museum Scavenger Hunts: Families team up for a historical scavenger hunt through the museum. Participation prizes are awarded. Jewish Museum 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side 212-423-3200 thejewishmuseum.org Hours: Saturday-Tuesday, 11am-5:45pm; Thursday, 11am-8pm; Friday, 11am-4pm Admission: $15; $12 seniors; $7.50 students; free for children 18 and younger. Pay as you wish on Thursdays after 5pm and free admission on Saturdays From dancing with celebrated kindie performers at a live concert, to excavating ancient replicas in a simulated archaeological dig, to designing mixed-media artworks, families enjoy a wide range of programs at the Jewish Museum. On Sundays and select weekdays, families can participate in the Museum’s Drop-in Art Workshop, attend music and theater performances, and explore art exhibitions together. They can also visit Archaeology Zone, an interactive exhibition designed for children, as well as engage in holiday programs and specialized art workshops during winter vacation weeks.

Metropolitan Museum of Art 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side 212-535-7710 metmuseum.org Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 10am-5:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 10am-9pm Admission: $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12 The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s programs for kids and families are designed to spark imagination, creativity, and lifelong connections with art. Drop-in programs such as Art Trek and Sunday Studio offer fun through looking, learning, and creating art together. Sign up for classes taught by educators and artists who use the entire museum as an expanded classroom. Get started with #MetKids, a new digital art feature made for, with, and by kids ages 7-12 that includes an interactive map, videos starring kid reporters, and more. Find it at metmuseum.org/metkids. Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden 421 E. 61st St., Upper East Side 212-838-6878; mvhm.org Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-4pm Admission: $8; $7 seniors and students with ID; free for children younger than 12 Travel back in time to an early 19th-century country resort where New Yorkers came for a day of fun and relaxation. Family-friendly tours highlight activities that were popular in the 1800s. Touch Collection baskets encourage children to roleplay life during this time. In the Children’s Corner, young visitors can dress up in reproduction clothing for pretend play in a replica of the historic kitchen. Afterward, try out historic toys and games in the museum’s backyard garden. Upcoming family programs include Teddy Bear Tea and Washington’s Birthday Ball.

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

Mowie Kay

FOOD & NUTRITION

Potato dumplings and potato spinach croquettes

Celebrate the Festival of Lights ››

Three international dishes to enjoy for Hanukkah By Paola Gavin “Over their two thousand years of exile, Jews migrated across the world, taking their culinary heritage and traditions with them. Wherever they went, they adapted local and regional dishes to fit their own strict dietary laws and, as a result, Jewish food today encompasses an enormous variety of cuisines and cooking styles,” Paola Gavin writes in her recently published cookbook, Hazana: Jewish Vegetarian Cooking. This Hanukkah (Dec. 12-20), why not enjoy tasty recipes with Russian, Turkish, and Italian roots?

Potato dumplings stuffed with curd cheese and chives Pampushki from Russia

Pampushki can be fried or boiled, sweet or savory. For sweet pampushki, simply omit the chives from the filling, add a tablespoon or two of sugar and the grated rind of a lemon, then serve lightly dusted with sugar. In Russia they generally fry pampushki in vegetable oil, but as I believe cooking with vegetable oils can be bad for your health, I prefer to use olive oil instead. Serves 4 1 lb. potatoes, peeled 2½ cups mashed potato Olive oil, for shallow frying For the filling: 8 oz. curd (pot or farmer’s) cheese 1 egg yolk

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1-2 tablespoons finely chopped chives Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. To make the filling, place the curd cheese, egg yolk, and chives in a bowl and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. 2. Coarsely grate the potatoes, then squeeze out as much water as possible. Place in a bowl with the mashed potato, season with salt and pepper, and mix well. Form the potato mixture into balls about the size of an egg. Punch a hole in the center with your forefinger and fill with a teaspoonful of filling, then close up to seal the filling inside. Flatten slightly and shallow-fry until golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Potato and spinach croquettes

Fritikas de spinaka kon patatas from Turkey

These delicious little croquettes may be served as a light main course or a side dish. Traditionally they are often prepared for Rosh Hashanah, or for Passover—in which case, matzo meal is used instead of flour. Serves 4-5 8 oz. spinach 2 lb. potatoes 2 eggs, separated Salt and freshly ground black pepper Flour or matzo meal, for dredging Olive oil, for deep-frying

Open year-round, Rolling admission Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 6:00 pm 1. Wash the spinach thoroughly, then cook in a covered saucepan over a moderate heat for 5 minutes or until wilted— the water clinging to the leaves is sufficient to prevent scorching. Drain well and squeeze dry, then chop finely. 2. Boil the potatoes in plenty of lightly salted water for 25 minutes or until tender. Drain and, when cool enough to handle, peel and then force through a sieve or mash with a potato ricer. Add the spinach and egg yolks and mix well. Season with salt and pepper. Shape into balls the size of a walnut and flatten slightly, then set aside to cool. 3. Meanwhile, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Dip the croquettes into the egg white then roll in flour. Working in batches, deep-fry the croquettes in hot oil until golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Apple fritters

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Fritelle di mele from Italy

These delicious apple fritters are often made for Chanukah and Tu Bi-Shevat, the Festival of the Trees. For a variation, try making them with other fruit, such as bananas, strawberries, apricots, or figs. Serves 4-6 4 tart apples 4-5 tablespoons brandy Olive oil, for deep-frying Icing (confectioners’) sugar, for dusting For the batter: 1 cup unbleached plain (all-purpose) flour Pinch of salt 1 teaspoon sugar 1 egg, separated 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons dry white wine 1. For the batter, combine the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl and make a well in the center. Add the egg yolk, olive oil, wine, and 5 tablespoons water and mix well, then gradually stir in up to another 5 tablespoons water to make a smooth batter. Leave to stand for 30 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, peel and core the apples and cut into rounds about ¼-inch thick. Place in a shallow bowl and pour over the brandy. Let the apples steep for 30 minutes. 3. To finish the batter, in another bowl, whisk the egg white until stiff and then gently fold into the batter. Working in batches, dip the apple rings into the batter and deep-fry in hot oil until golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels and serve at once, dusted with icing sugar.

Recipes excerpted with permission from Hazana: Jewish Vegetarian Cooking by Paola Gavin, published by Quadrille October 2017, RRP $35.00 hardcover.

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nymetroparents Don’t miss “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” live at Kings Theatre on Saturday, Dec. 16! Tickets on sale now: http://bit.ly/2hyOpYd

nymetroparents Call or come see us at our open houses for summer and fall 2018 enrollment! We can’t wait to show you our fun and exciting program!

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nymetroparents CBE Kids Camps: Elementary Division, Ha’Geemnasia Hebrew Camp, Movin’ On Travel Camp CBE Kids Camp | 274 Garfield Place, Park Slope | 718-768-3814 x210 | cbebk.org

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5 Ways to Connect with Your Partner ››

Being a new, first-time mom can be tough on you, as well as your relationship with your partner. Here are five ways to keep your bond strong. By Mitzi Bockmann

eing a mom and a partner can be tough. From the moment your child is born, all of your genetic material calls to you to make this child your priority. To make sure he or she survives in this perilous world. Unfortunately it is this exact thing that can create a huge divide between you and your partner. Until your child is born you put your relationship with your partner first. Suddenly that is no longer the case and that can cause severe strain between the two of you, strain that can stretch a marriage to breaking without a little care and keeping. Here are five things you can do to make sure your partner feels cherished:

Do for your partner the things that make him or her feel loved.

This is easier said than done because we don’t always know what makes our partner feel special and appreciated. In his book, The 5 Love Languages, Gary Chapman lists five ways someone wants to be loved: physical touch, words of affection, quality time, acts of

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

service, and receiving gifts. Both you and your partner should visit 5lovelanguages.com and take the test so you can learn what you each need to feel loved.

Tell your partner that you love them.

I hear it all the time. I tell a client to tell their partner that they love them and my client says, “He/She knows that I love them.” Maybe this is true and maybe it is not. Regardless, you should look your partner in the eye and tell him or her every day that you love them. It means a lot for people to be told that they are loved, or that they are beautiful, or that you miss them. They might “know it” already, but words are very meaningful.

Touch your partner.

Touch is one of the most primeval ways to communicate with another person. Long before there were words, scientists say, humans beings communicated with gestures and touch. Animals still do. We know the importance of touch with our babies, that

touch encourages bonding and trust. Take that same perspective with your partner. Hug him when he walks in the door, take her hand in the store, wrap yourself around him when you go to sleep at night. Touching your partner will speak volumes about the love that you have for her.

Be kind to your partner.

I know this seems basic, but it is something that gets lost in the chaos of family a life. I know, from personal experience, that as our family grew, as my life became more stressful, I took it out on my husband—I nitpicked and nagged and snapped and even yelled at him for things that were often not his fault. And I saw the hurt in his eyes every time I did it. I would take it all back if I could. My not being kind to him created a chasm between us that was hard to repair.

Give your partner freedom.

You know the saying “If you love someone let them go.” Often, amidst the chaos of everyday life, we cling to our partners as a life raft, needing them with us always to keep us from drowning in the messiness. This clinginess can actually drive someone away, however, because your partner will become resentful of your need to constantly have her by your side. Both of you should regularly have some time away from the chaos, sometimes together and sometimes apart. We were all individuals once, before we became a couple and then a family, and it’s important to nurture that individual in ourselves, so that we can be a better partner and a better parent.

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How Can I Introduce Technology Into My Child’s Life In a Safe and Appropriate Manner? ›› Smart devices can be great tools—when they’re used wisely. By Laura Hart

any parents find technology use among their children to be a topic of anxiety. Some fear an interest in technology may lead to an over-saturation of video games and lack of academic or social focus. What many parents don’t realize is, technology usage should be a tool to help children think creatively and eagerly engage in learning. Learning and growing are not one-size-fits-all experiences, as many educators may have led us to believe. Developing a creative and confident learner is something you build by noticing, listening, and engaging with your child in what interests them. To this end, introducing your child to technology is an exciting experience, as there are infinite fun and engaging approaches. When thinking about technology introduction and integration, there are a few things to consider, all of which remain true when speaking about grade-school students, adolescents, or grown adults. First, technology should be used as a supplement to foster interest and enthusiasm in life, rather than a necessity a child is

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

pushed toward out of fear that they will not succeed or be ready to face the next challenge in life. The second thing to remember is, it’s quite difficult not to have some aspect of technology in your child’s life. The key is to make sure they have the opportunity to play with it, as they might play with clay, painting, or music. Having this ability will naturally lead children toward the coding, robotics, stop-motion animation, or maker activities that provide so much of what professionals in the 21st-century job market are looking for. Creativity, the ability to work in a team, the ability to take a large challenge and break it down into smaller tasks, and to communicate well with others are all skills fostered through technology use. And they’re more necessary than ever for the future facing our children. Although there are countless applications and networks through which to introduce children to technology, the key is trusting your children to make good decisions and being there to support their choices.

PartyCentral Professional Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources PARTY ENTERTAINMENT CLOWNS.COM Proudly serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000; 718-971-5862 clowns.com We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals. PARTY PLACES ART FUN STUDIO 547 92nd St. 718-680-0508 artfunstudio.com; alla@artfunstudio.com Canvas and ceramic painting art studio in Brooklyn. Plan a child’s budget-friendly birthday party or adult’s Sip and Paint event, check our classes or just walk in for spontaneous fun! 70 five-star reviews on Google and Yelp. Fun and creative packages for all ages. AVIATOR SPORTS AND EVENTS CENTER 3159 Flatbush Ave. 718-758-7551 aviatorsports.com/birthday-parties There are 11 birthday party packages at Aviator Sports that make it easy to create a memorable birthday party for children. All parties include a private party room throughout the duration of the party, and a dedicated party host! BOUNCEU 6722 Fort Hamilton Parkway, entrance on

67th Street and 9th Avenue, Dyker Heights 347-450-5867 bounceu.com/brooklyn-ny BounceU, the premier birthday party and play experience in all of Brooklyn. We’re a 30,000-square-foot indoor recreational facility with “YUGE” inflatable play equipment. CHELSEA PIERS SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park 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. KIDS ‘N ACTION 1149 McDonald Ave. 718-377-1818 kidsnaction.com steven@kidsnaction.com Fun and thrills are what your kids will have at Kids ‘N Action. Kids never get bored enjoying our thrilling indoor roller coaster, amusing winding train, exciting go-karts, and action-filled arcade games. Parties include unlimited soft play and rides.

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Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS PEDIATRIC IMMEDIATE CARE 698 Manhattan Ave.; 718-389-PEDS (7337) 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown; 631-864-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-of-theart medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted. EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS STRATEGIC STAFFING WORKS Brooklyn and Long Island locations 631-649-6573 strategicstaffingworks.com; strategicstaffingworks@gmail.com Offers workshops designed to help parents, family, and friends aid people with diverse abilities in their search for volunteer opportunities related to their field of college interest. SPECIAL NEEDS LITTLE OPTICS INC. 192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, Queens 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside, Queens 718-468-7500; hablamos Español littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional eye care for children, including infants and young adults. We also alleviate any self-esteem issues associated with the stigma of wearing glasses. When your child leaves Little Optics, rest assured that they will feel confident.

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sendSTAFFING resuméWORKS to dmgsales@davlermedia.com STRATEGIC Brooklyn and Long Island locations 631-649-6573 strategicstaffingworks.com; strategicstaffingworks@gmail.com Offers workshops designed to help parents, family, and friends aid people with diverse abilities in their search for employment and life-fulfilling volunteer opportunities.

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SALES OPENING MAGAZINES • WEBSITES • SOCIAL MEDIA • EMAIL send resumé to dmgsales@davlermedia.com

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To be in this section, call 212-315-0800 or email nympads@davlermedia.com Pediatric Immediate Care 698 Manhattan Ave. 718-389-PEDS (7337) 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337); pediatricimmediatecare.com

Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-of-theart 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.

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.

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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

Dr. Alexis Fermanis is an orthodontic specialist who practiced in Brooklyn for 10 years before starting Brooklyn Family Orthodontics in 2014. She is a native New Yorker and enjoys running and traveling in her free time. Dr. Fermanis believes that a beautiful smile makes a great first impression and she is passionate about providing that to her patients. She is active in her alumni societies and local dental organizations and regularly attends continuing education classes, so she can provide the most successful results for her patients.

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

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.

Lois Jackson, D.D.S., P.C. and Associates 16 Court St., Suite 2211 718-855-8833 505 LaGuardia Place, Suite L4, Greenwich Village, near Washington Square Park 212-995-8888; lajacksondds@aol.com

Dr. Lois Jackson is very experienced in pediatric dental care for children, adolescents, and patients with special-needs. She is the president of the New York State Association of Pediatric Dentists. To give back to the community, Dr. Jackson volunteers and supports numerous civic and cultural organizations. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the Camp Brooklyn (sending children to camp), Flatbush Development Corporation, East Midwood Jewish Center, and Fisk Terrace Neighborhood Association. Dr. Jackson was a Nickelodeon Parents’ Pick for Best Dentist for two years running!

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Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts................................ 2

Two by Two Childcare................................................ 45

Brooklyn Events Center, Barclays Center.................... 5

Smart Start................................................................... 9

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING

PLAY SPACES

CHILD CARE / DAY CARE

College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors............................. 17

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts................................ 2

Treasure Island............................................................. 7

EVENTS / OUTINGS

AuPairCare by Intrax.................................................... 7

Llingsworth Music....................................................... 45

Storybook Land............................................................ 7

Treasure Island............................................................. 7 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts................................ 2

Pediatric Immediate Care....................................... 9, 48

Fairytale Island............................................................. 5 Gulliver’s Gate............................................................ 27 Kings Theatre at the Ambassador Theatre................. 37

RETAIL Llingsworth Music....................................................... 45

SPECIAL EVENTS Brooklyn Events Center, Barclays Center.................... 5 Kings Theatre at the Ambassador Theatre................. 37

Llingsworth Music....................................................... 45 New York Botanical Garden........................................ 17

SPORTS

Rab’s Country Lanes.................................................. 52

Aviator Sports Recreation........................................... 27

FITNESS

THEATER

Kids N Action.............................................................. 15

Kings Theatre at the Ambassador Theatre................. 37

Brienza’s Academic Advantage.................................... 3

HEALTH

TUTORS

Rab’s Country Lanes.................................................. 52

Allergy & Asthma Care of Brooklyn...................... 27, 48

Brienza’s Academic Advantage.................................... 3

Storybook Land............................................................ 7 Treasure Island............................................................. 7 Two by Two Childcare................................................ 45

CLASSES

BrooklynParent 49

VOICES

Reflfle fl ctions of a [Not So] ‘Very Cool Dad’ ››

After years of working at parenting magazines and websites, our former editorial director says goodbye to the beat. By Michael Kress

was in the grocery store with my kids recently, and in an effort to get them to take a break from trying to kill each other long enough for me to check out, I decided to ask them directly: “Please take a break from killing each other so I can check out.” It didn’t really work, but it did catch the attention of a young woman passing by, who turned to me with a big smile and told me I was a “very cool dad.” Of that I am not sure, but the interjection was enough to somehow silence my kids long enough to allow me to pay and flee. Mission accomplished. Of course, my first instinct was to figure out how I’d write about the anecdote. That’s what we journalists do, and for the past seven years—the last two-plus at NYMetroParents—my career, and my passion, has focused on parenting magazines and websites. Now, as I say goodbye to the beat and begin a new chapter, I am feeling wistful but am also looking forward to my return to being a parenting civilian rather than a professional. When people hear I work in parenting media, they tend to ask for the best piece of advice I’ve learned, or make some comment about how I must be a great parent because of my job. Underlying the question or comment is the assumption that there is some Secret to Perfect Parenting lying somewhere waiting to be unlocked. Of course, there is not, and the articles I’ve published would never claim there is. Ask me instead about the safest way to put a baby to sleep or whether kids’ allowance should be dependant on their doing chores, and then we can have an indepth conversation. Parenting media, like parenting itself, is usually focused on the micro and the mundane—on solving the specific challenge or achieving the unique goal of the moment. In short, it strives to aid in the day-to-day struggles and adventures of modern parenting, rather than propose a Pefect Parenting Plan. That said, I have picked up a few lessons here and there, from the content I’ve edited and my own decade of experience as a parent. What are those? Here are just a few highlights: Michael Kress is the former editorial director of NYMetroParents and the father of three girls.

December 2017 | nymetroparents.com

1. Kids’ moods will change in a heartbeat. The child throwing an epic tantrum will shrug it off and move on, while the siblings at war will suddenly be playing and laughing together—all while we adults continue to fume and shake, feeling the effects of the conflict long after our kids have forgotten about it. There is a saying about certain cities that if you don’t like the weather, wait a little while and it will change; so, too, for kids’ moods and behaviors. If you have the wherewithal to wait it out, this rough moment will certainly pass. 2. There is no substitute for being present. The best gift we can give our kids is time and attention. Unfortunately, there is the not-small matter of careers and income, and this is one of the harder things for many of us to give, especially in our commutecrazy metro area. At the very least, we can make sure to make the most of the time we do have during the week with our kids and on the weekends, being present not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. Which means: Put down that phone (advice I preach better than I practice). 3. There is nothing more important than raising your kids to be kind. Resilience, academic success, social skills—these things are all important. But I’d give anything to know my kids will live lives of empathy, generosity, and kindness. The greatest moments I can recall as a parent? When I see one of my kids going out of her way to help a sister, friend, or occasionally, my wife or me. 4. Fart jokes are always funny. This is a universal truth that transcends age, gender, or interest. It just is. And that is a fact that can come in handy when stress levels get high and anxiety needs to be released. A bonus of working in parenting media is the free swag—and I must give a shout-out to all the companies that shipped toys and books and baby products that have enriched our lives and occasionally merited a review or mention. My kids, to be clear, are devastated that I am leaving. And there is so much I will miss, too, and not just the goodies. The true reward has been in digging into the issues that matter so much to our lives as parents, learning and growing from the content we’ve published, and sharing it with you to help all of us be the best parents we can be. I look forward to continuing to be part of this community, as a parenting civilian and a reader.

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

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SEPTEMBER 2012

NORTHVALE • NORWOOD • OLD TAPPAN • PARK RIDGE • RAMSEY • RIDGEWOOD • SADDLE RIVER/UPPER SADDLE RIVER • WALDWICK • WESTWOOD • WYCKOFF

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LongIslandParent Parent SPETEMBER 2012

Class Is In!

After-School Activities

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SLOW DOWN!

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

How to Manage Kids’ Schedules

What Makes a Good Mentor?

+ 174 Family

+ 130 Family

(see our calendar, p. 26)

(see our calendar, p. 32)

Events

Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

Where-To Guide: Berry Picking

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Dinosaur Fun

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

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

BrooklynParent 51