Fairfield Parent - December 2016

Fairf ieldParent DECEMBER 2016

Bridgeport • Danbury • Darien • Fairfield • Greenwich • New Canaan • Norwalk • Ridgefield • Stamford • Westport • Wilton and more

FAIRFIELDPARENT.COM

Staging a Holiday Classic

Behind the scenes at a local Nutcracker production

Weird Behavior Explained Why kids do the strangest things

Staycation Inspiration

Seven fun-filled itineraries for local family fun

CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE • MANNERS & ETIQUETTE SCHOOLS

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NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

December 2016 ››

24

Features

14 Upholding a Holiday Tradition A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to put on a performance of The Nutcracker

14

16 Minding Their Manners It may seem quaint, but etiquette schools for kids are thriving.

18 Make Your Own Hot Cocoa Four recipes that use favorite flavor combinations 20 Kids Do the Weirdest Things Some of your child’s strangest behaviors and habits, explained by experts 24 A Staycation a Day Ideas for seven fun-filled family days around the New York metro area 40 Travel Back in Time...

16 historical locations in the New York metro area to visit with your kids

20

18

46 Get as Good as You Give How to indulge in gift-giving instincts without spoiling your kids 48 Flu Shot 101 Four frequently asked questions

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 11 Voices: Pride and Fear 13 NYMP Q&A: Risa Klein, a certified nurse midwife, talks midwifery

Fun & Activities

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

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

by Appaman (appaman.com)

27

12 Media Matters: Virtual Stocking Stuffers 12 DIY Corner: Christmas Crackers 26 Outing: Vanderbilt Museum 27 Family Activities Calendar 38 Where-To Guide: Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

Directories 44 49 49 50

Winter Break Activities Meet the Health Care Professional Party Planner Advertisers’ Index

››

ON THE COVER ›› 14 Staging a Holiday Classic 16 Manners & Etiquette Schools 20 Weird Behavior Explained

facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

24 Staycation Inspiration

38 Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

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

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DECEMBER 2016 • Vol.9 • No.23

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

EDITOR’S NOTE

MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens

‘No Feet in Soup’

O

ne of my kids compulsively put her feet on everything, to the point where I had to institute a rule that’s become infamous in our household: “No feet in soup.” Another one can’t go more than a few minutes without her fingers in her belly button. I am sure many of you are nodding knowingly, since my kids are hardly unusual, even if the particulars differ person to person. Let’s face it: Kids do weird stuff, even they can’t explain why they do it. So we turned to the experts and asked them to explain kids’ unusual habits, from putting things up their noses to stripping in public to finding potty humor irresistible (p. 20).

Usually, these odd-but-normal behaviors fade as kids get older and move on to the next mysterious habit. But learning to navigate the world can be difficult for many children. Enter manners and etiquette schools. You may have thought these were a thing of the past, but they’re alive and well in our region. And while they still teach kids the basics—sitting and eating properly at the dinner table, making eye contact and conversing with adults, and so on—many also ready their students for a world where so much communication happens via social media, texts, and email. Megan Bailey takes a look at today’s manners and etiquette programs and how participants benefit from them (p. 16).

Holidays are, of course, a good time for kids to remember their manners, between the festive dinners and the presents for which they need to say thank you. It’s one of my favorite times of year, as I look forward to Hanukkah lights and my kids’ winter break. I often find, however, that I can’t decide what to do as a family, even when we are all eager for a fun outing. To help out, Bethany Braun-Silva offers seven “staycation” itineraries around the region (p. 24).

Even though I don’t celebrate Christmas myself, I’ll admit to loving the lights, decorations, and general vibe the season brings. I’ll also make another admission: I’ve never seen The Nutcracker. Not by design, nor by opposition to it—it’s just never happened. So I was fascinated to read what it takes to mount a local production of this holiday classic in Samantha Neudorf’s behind-the-scenes look (p. 14).

Whatever your plans this December, and whatever holiday(s) you celebrate, may the month—and the new year ahead—be filled with joy, peace, and health for all of you.

Michael Kress Editorial Director

SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ASSISTANT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Karen Demeter (Fairfield, Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERNS: Jonathan Perry, Kathryn Sheridan

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The NYMetroParents

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• Follow the directions there to tell us—in 75 words or less—about your child’s or your family’s community service efforts and the impact this volunteer work has on others. If you’d like, you can upload a photo or link to a video of them volunteering.

• Eight Caring Kids will each receive a $500 gift card and a letter of commendation, and many more will be featured in our magazine and/or website.

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

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UOTABLES Their quirks are the things that are important to me. Not photos of them looking perfect. …

When they were ready to go out that door, I was pretty sure that my heart might literally burst. My girls felt completely comfortable with themselves and completely beautiful.

What better gift is there to give them?

—Westchester, NY, mom Jennifer Garry, in a post entitled “School Picture Day Rebellion,” on her blog cuddlesandchaos.com

in an instagram Writing workshop at school ... I love every minute that I get to spend with my girls.

(Posted by @3citygirlsnyc, aka Nilsa K, who blogs at 3citygirlsnyc.wordpress.com)

A SPECIAL MILESTONE “My son has autism and, at age 13, recently saw a movie in a theater for the first time. It is not something I thought would work for him—until now.”

in an instagram It’s so nice here, Mama! Can I take a nap? deitar no chão sujo do parquinho, né?

Tão gostoso

(Posted by @blogmeandthecity, aka NYC mom Fernanda Seelos, who blogs at blogmeandthecity.com)

“Every mother should know she is not alone in this. It is going to take some getting used to. Everyone struggles at first—everyone—even if they don’t admit it.”

—Kate Bingham-Smith, in a post on scarymommy.com entitled “What Every Mother Should Know.”

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

—Manhattan mom Dana Greenberg in an article entitled “Taking a Child with Autism to the Movies: 5 Tips From a Mom Who’s Been There.” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/autism-movies.

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.

VOICES

Pride and Fear

››

The intense, mixed emotions of being the wife of a police officer. By Bethany Braun-Silva

D

uring Spirit Week at my son’s school, students were asked to dress up as what they wanted to be when they grew up. My son chose to be a baseball player, and I figured we would see lots of other ballplayers, along with plenty of doctors and superheroes. But that wasn’t the most popular choice among kids at his school—not even close.

As we approached the school, I noticed dozens of kids dressed as police officers, which surprised me. Boys and girls, younger as well as older kids, all decked out in navy blue uniforms and badges. I had a sense of pride, and I smiled at the innocence of these kids’ desires to serve and protect. I also got a rush of anxiety because, should these young children still want to be cops when they actually do grow up, they are in for a rough road. It’s a tough life, and police officers and their families need a lot of support—not to mention, it’s scary as all get out.

My husband is a New York City police officer, and he is very dedicated to his job. He takes it seriously; he does it with pride and rarely complains. With two young boys at home and a demanding job with even more demanding hours, the fact that my husband doesn’t complain isn’t just worth mentioning, it’s a feat in itself.

As a cop’s wife who also works, it has been tricky managing our schedules. He works nights, and so, between work and parenting duties, I sometimes go several days without interacting with my husband face to face. This is the norm, and the boys and I have grown accustomed to missing him and spending weekends without him. We try to capitalize on any time off my husband has by spending quality time together and doing fun things as a family.

However, with the recent bombings and ever-present threats in New York City, we’ve had even less time together than usual, since he has been working tons of overtime. As for me? I am more anxious than ever about his career given the current climate and recent police shootings.

At home, we talk about these things in private. Our sons are 4 and 1 and best left out of conversations about the dangers of their father’s job, at least for now. However, one day in the near future we will have to sit them down and explain the reality of being a police officer. We will have to tell them that police officers sometimes make the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect the people of their community. That sometimes officers make bad decisions. That while it is a noble, selfless profession, many officers misunderstand the responsibility they have to protect and serve.

In lieu of those talks, right now we have a strict family rule of saying “I love you” and giving hugs and kisses when Daddy leaves for work. It’s a great tradition that I’m sure many families enjoy, but in our home, as in many law-enforcement families, it is not to be missed, even on the busiest days. That’s the strange reality of living with a police officer. He might not come home after his shift. He might not come home ever again. That truth is something I carry with me always, but am sadly reminded of it more frequently of late.

We live in scary times and part of me just wants to run away from it all and move to a more serene environment—somewhere with a backyard and a garden, where I can give my kids a more innocent upbringing. But that’s out of the question given my husband’s job. Plus, the reality is there are dangers everywhere. I support my husband in his career, just as he supports me in mine.

Whatever happens, we will get through it as a family.

With all that being said, life is otherwise great. Our boys are happy and healthy, and I have pretty much adjusted to the demands of being a police officer’s wife. It’s unfortunate that we live with the ever-present knowledge of potential tragedy in our lives, but that just comes with the territory. On the other side of it, we have our own personal hero who protects and serves us daily.

My boys and I couldn’t be prouder.

Fairf ieldParent 11

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In Theaters Dec. 21: Sing

Our Partner: Common Sense Media An independent nonprof it that helps families make smart media choices.

Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org

Parents need to know that Sing is an animated comedy that looks like a mash-up between Zootopia and American Idol. In a world in which animals walk, talk, wear clothes, and— yes—sing, Buster, a koala (voiced by Matthew McConaughey), proposes to host a singing competition in a last-ditch effort to save his theater. Animals from near and far gather to vie for the prize money, including a gorilla trying to get out of his father’s gang (Taron Egerton), a suburban mama pig (Reese Witherspoon), and even a gambling mouse (Seth MacFarlane). Some of the humor might not be appropriate for the littlest kids, but overall Sing looks like a movie that kids and parents will be able to enjoy together.

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

DIY CORNER HOLIDAY FUN

Christmas Crackers

Making your own crackers is fun and easy, and it means you can put your own choice of novelties and silly handwritten jokes inside.

Make the crackers from colorful wrapping paper and trim them with sequins or glitter finished with pretty bows. Or throw in some confetti to add a fun element to your New Year’s Eve party.

You will need: • Cardboard toilet rolls • 8-by-8-inch piece of paper per cracker • Pencil • Ruler • Scissors

• Glue or sticky tape • Snaps for crackers (you can find these on Amazon.com) • Gifts, paper hats, and jokes • 8 inches of ribbon (¼-inch wide) per cracker • Sequin trim

Directions: 1. Lay the cardboard roll in the center of the paper and mark the position of each end using a pencil. Set the roll aside.

2. Using the marks made on the paper as a guide, fold the paper, right sides together, and press the folds flat. Using a ruler, mark out lines along the fold approximately ¾ inch apart, stopping approximately 1 inch in from the outside edge of the paper.

3. Use scissors to cut along the marked lines to create slits in the paper. Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the other side.

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

4. Now unfold the paper and lay it flat, wrong side facing up. Place the cardboard roll on top. Apply a dab of glue or use a small piece of double-sided tape to hold the paper on the roll. Wrap the paper around the roll as tightly as you can. Apply glue along the whole edge of the paper and press firmly in place. Allow to dry completely.

5. Push the cracker snap through the open end of the roll. This is also the time to insert any small gifts or trinkets, a paper hat, and a joke or other motto.

6. Cut the ribbon in half and tie a length of ribbon around one end of the cracker. Tie in a knot. Repeat at the other end. Trim the ends of the ribbon on the diagonal with scissors to prevent them fraying.

7. Measure the circumference of the cracker and cut three lengths of sequin trim to fit. Glue the sequin trim in rows around the cracker. Allow glue to dry completely.

Crackers Safety: Crackers snaps are a low-risk fire hazard and must always be used with adult supervision. Never pull a snap on its own.

Visit nymetroparents.com/crackers for step-by-step photos.

Excerpted from My First Christmas Craft Book, Cico Kidz, $14.95; rylandpeters.com.

Photography by CICO Books 2016.

What a Midwife Does ››

By Bethany Braun-Silva

Risa Klein is a certified nurse midwife with an office on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, NY. She was the “birth consultant” for the feature films Baby Mama and Laze.

Are there any misconceptions about midwives you want to set straight? Midwives are very smart. We go through very rigorous academic accredited midwifery schools. Sometimes people think midwives only do home-births for impoverished, poverty-stricken people around the world, and that’s really not true. Midwives serve women of all socio-economic backgrounds and what we do is we pride ourselves on understanding what is normal for each woman we see. We also do GYN-care, conscious conception planning, and contraceptive planning. Basically, midwives have a holistic view of the process of birth and childbirth is just an organic, natural process. Midwives see it as normal, it’s not a disease; it’s nothing to be afraid of.

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Can any woman see a midwife during her pregnancy? We take NBG-0044-TrainShow_NyMetroParents_3.55x4.7_Dec01_v1.indd 1 care of healthy, low-risk women. We don’t take care of women with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, or other metabolic diseases. We could co-manage women, but for the most part we take care of healthy women, but we are educated and experienced to screen for other risk factors. So many women think, “Oh, I’ll be safer with an OB,” but if there’s a true medical issue, then we will refer, consult, and collaborate with an obstetrician, with a perinatologist, or with a genetic counselor. So what I could share is that a lot of people don’t understand the magnitude of experience midwives have in terms of understanding the medical Let’s you keep track of everything piece of it, and knowing when to and how to recognize if there is a challenge, and when to consult and co-manage. from your laptop, tablet or phone.

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Any tips for woman to help make pregnancy an easier, more enjoyable process? Many women are working very hard, and they’re going up and down stairs and going to the gym, but unbeknownst to them, they’re throwing themselves into pre-term labor and their waters are breaking early because they’re doing too much. So I really encourage women to go slow. My phrase is, “be boring.” Modify work, go in late, work from home, do what you can so you can enjoy the last few weeks and not risk a premature labor. In our country we have very high infant morbidity and mortality, and it’s truly something that I believe could be avoided with positive communication about eating well, having protein in the diet, making sure a woman’s blood volume stays high, and getting enough rest. If a woman is dizzy by exercising and running around and forgetting to eat or drink, those all set up for preterm labor contractions.

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Samantha Neudorf

Julieta Cervantes

The party scene from the Westchester Ballet Company’s 2015 production of The Nutcracker

Logrea Dance Academy students rehearse the finale from The Nutcracker in October.

Upholding a Holiday Tradition

››

A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to plan, choreograph, and perform The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday show. By Samantha Neudorf

A

t 1pm on a recent Saturday, Beth Fritz-Logrea ushers all of her ballet students into the studio to begin rehearsing the snow scene from Act I of The Nutcracker. The girls stand in position and Fritz-Logrea walks up to them to go over placement on the stage at Logrea Dance Academy in Ossining, NY. Each girl is given a number, which corresponds to a marker on the stage designating where she should stand. Twenty minutes after first inviting the students in, they’re all in place and Fritz-Logrea walks to the front of the studio, sits in a director’s chair, and cues her husband, Jean Logrea, to start the music from the top of the snow scene. Rehearsal has begun.

The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition that kids and adults look forward to each year. First performed at the Imperial Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1892, the ballet is Alexandre Dumas père’s adaptation of the story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, written by E.T.A. Hoffmann. Despite those roots, it was not until 1964 that The Nutcracker gained popularity. That’s when George Balanchine—considered by many as the “Father of American Ballet”—debuted his rendition of the ballet at New York City Center.

In Balanchine’s words, his Nutcracker was to be “full-length and expensive,” according to Vanity Fair. He envisioned a grandiose tree for the background, and somehow managed to get a $40,000 tree commissioned to make the magic of The Nutcracker feel as real as possible.

That magic, as well as the tradition of this ballet, are still very much alive and well today—at major venues such as Lincoln Center as well as at regional and local theaters seemingly everywhere. No matter where it is produced, the grace and beauty on display is the 14

December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

result of countless hours of hard work by dedicated dancers, many of them teens at local high schools.

A Ballet Family

Westchester Ballet Company’s version of this classic has been the responsibility of co-directors Jean Logrea and Beth Fritz-Logrea since they became owners of the dance troupe in 1985. A year later, they founded the Logrea Dance Academy and named it the official school of the Westchester Ballet Company.

Though Fritz-Logrea stopped personally performing in the production 25 years ago, she is both the choreographer and director of the show. Her husband has played the role of Uncle Drosselmeyer for the past 31 years, while their son, Nick, will be performing in his 25th Nutcracker show in several different roles: the butler in the party scene, the Mouse King, the Arabian pas de deux, and a soloist for the company’s Ukranian variation—an added scene that is not usually performed in other Nutcracker productions.

Nick says the best part about performing each year is being on stage. “There’s something about being on stage and being in front of a large group of people and performing for them then getting the satisfaction of them applauding you at the end,” Nick says.

“It’s a big adrenaline rush, something that I’ve loved from the very beginning.”

Balancing High School with Rehearsal

Back at rehearsal, there are nearly 28 girls who have been cast in the snow scene, divided into two groups, each of which will perform at two of the four shows. Fritz-Logrea runs through the scene with the first cast for the first time this season. All of these dancers are

wearing pointe shoes and are between ages 11-18, including the dance studio’s three graduating seniors: Charlotte Chandler, Clare Hammonds, and Molly Powers.

These three girls have been dancing for 15 years and have been performing in the Westchester Ballet Company’s Nutcracker for 10-12 years each. Powers and Chandler first started out as mice and Hammonds was a page; this year, they each have three roles— Chandler, a 17-year-old from Cross River, NY, is a snow soloist, Chinese soloist, and the Dew Drop Fairy; Hammonds, a 17-yearold from Ossining, is a snow soloist, in the gigue variation, and is the flower soloist; Powers, a 17-year-old from Hawthorne, NY, is a party scene guest, in the snow scene, and is a flower soloist.

The teens dance ballet six days a week, which is how they’ve grown close to one another. “We’re all such good friends and the community surrounding us helps to put on the performance,” Hammonds says. “That plays a huge part in performance week for us.”

The most challenging part for these seniors is juggling college applications and extracurricular activities with dance rehearsals six days a week. Saturday rehearsals for The Nutcracker are four hours long.

“This teaches you time management because you’re here so often, but you need to focus on your studies, too,” says Powers, a member of the National Honor Society at her school.

The end of the snow scene transitions into one in which Clara, the main character, travels to the Land of Sweets with the Nutcracker Prince. Clara is played by 14-year-old Rylee Carpenter of Ossining.

She has played Clara for the past three years, and aspires to perform on Broadway when she is older.

“I love being able to act, especially doing Clara,” Carpenter says.

“I love the feeling of acting and dancing because it just lets me express myself more.” She also takes theater and singing lessons in addition to dance.

Tim Bohrman, a 14-year-old from Carmel, NY, is Logrea Dance Studio’s oldest boy, and has been dancing for 10 years. He will play Fritz, the lead soldier, and the Chinese soloist in this year’s performance, and this is his first year as a soloist. “A lot of the guy parts are a lot of fun because there’s usually a lot of cool jumps and turns,” he says.

Bohrman started taking ballet after his older sister—who is now 20 and a trainee with the Orlando Ballet Company in Florida— started taking lessons. Though Bohrman also takes modern and tap at the dance studio, he says his favorite dance is ballet and intends to join a ballet company, just like his older sister.

Planning the Production

To mount an ambitious production such as The Nutcracker, the Logreas start thinking about the show as early as late July or early August. Right after their spring season is over in May, they sit down and discuss which dancers are returning and start calling guest dancers to see if they will be available.

Auditions for this year’s Nutcracker were held in mid-September, and are typically open to whoever would like to be a part of it.

Students at Logrea Dance Studio are not required to participate in The Nutcracker, and they are also not guaranteed a role just because they are a part of the company. Rehearsals begin a week after auditions and run until performance week—Dec. 16-18 this year.

In order to ensure the production is staged as planned, there are also many logistics to be considered. Westchester Ballet Company board members must consult with the performance venue—the Westchester County Center in White Plains—and the county Parks

and Recreation department to take care of contracts. They also have to coordinate with the stage crew at Westchester County Center about technicalities such as lighting and set changes.

The Logreas are able to bring in guest dancers from ballet companies around the world because of the connections they have made over the years as ballet dancers themselves. Beth and Jean met when they both danced at the Graz Opera House in Austria.

There are usually four to five guest dancers who perform in their show, and the Logreas say it is good experience for their students to see what it is like to dance among a professional. “[To see] how they carry themselves on and off the stage, how they prepare for the production in the warm-up class, how early they arrive to the theater—it’s just good for the kids to witness,” Logrea says.

Keeping the Magic Alive

After the Mouse King is slayed on stage during the performance, a screen comes down, the Nutcracker Prince comes to life, and Drosselmeyer introduces him to Clara. The music crescendos, the lights dim, and dry ice blocks are placed to create the illusion of a dreamlike fog—then the snow scene begins. Nick says that is his favorite scene from the show.

“I know dancers that have graduated from us and have come back to watch… they still say to this day that they always cry during the beginning of the snow scene,” Nick says. “I still get chills every time that music comes up.”

Logrea recalls a time when a college student visited Westchester and watched the show—particularly the transition into the snow scene. “He said, ‘I’ve never seen anything like that before, and I will never forget that in my life,’” Logrea says.

It’s what every Nutcracker performer everywhere hopes for, performance after performance of this holiday-season tradition.

WHERE TO SEE PERFORMANCES OF THE NUTCRACKER IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY Staples High School 70 North Ave., Westport Dec. 3, 3pm and 7pm; Dec. 4, 2pm $25, $15 students and seniors. westportdance.com.

New Canaan High School 11 Farm Road, New Canaan Dec. 2-4, times vary $15-$55. neadance.com.

Klein Memorial Auditorium 910 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport Dec. 10, 1pm and 7pm; Dec. 11, 1pm $20-$50. newenglandballet.org.

New Haven Ballet Shubert Performing Arts Center 247 College St., New Haven Dec. 9, 7pm; Dec. 10-11, 1pm and 5pm $24-$68. shubert.com.

Danbury High School Auditorium 43 Clapboard Ridge Road, Danbury Dec. 9-11, times vary $10-$30. danburymusiccentre.org.

Westport Country Playhouse 25 Powers Court, Westport Dec. 10-11, 1pm and 4pm $40, $30 seniors, $25 children and students. westportplayhouse.org.

The Ridgefield Playhouse 80 E. Ridge Road, Ridgefield Dec. 16-18, times vary $25 adult, $20 child. ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

Palace Theater 61 Atlantic St., Stamford Dec. 17, 2pm and 6pm; Dec. 18, 1pm and 5pm $40-$75. connecticutballet.org.

Fairf ieldParent 15

Courtesy Fleur de Lis Academy

Students at Fleur de Lis Academy in Norwalk prepare for the day’s lesson.

Minding Their Manners

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It may seem quaint in today’s world, but etiquette schools for kids are thriving nonetheless. By Megan Bailey

I

t seemed to be that whenever 5-year-old Belle sat down for dinner, most of it would end up on the floor rather than in her mouth. She overlooked the fork and knife and used the tools she was born with—her fingers. As a result, Belle’s parents got tired of crawling under the table to pick up whatever they’d had for dinner that night. But they couldn’t seem to get Belle to stop, so they turned to some outside help.

That’s right: We’re talking etiquette school. Belle’s mom, Anne, decided to enroll her in a dining course at Beaumont Etiquette in Manhattan, NY. Not wanting it to feel like a punishment, Anne set out to make sure Belle saw it as a fun and light-hearted activity. When the day came to start, Anne made it a big deal for Belle, dressing her daughter in a cute party dress, letting her put on some makeup, and getting her excited about using fancy tableware.

During class time, Beumont’s founder and director, Myka Meier, taught Belle the basics of mealtime etiquette, including where your napkin goes, when to use a fork and a spoon, and how you shouldn’t put your feet up while eating.

Today, Anne is happy to report, Belle’s food now reaches her mouth instead of the floor, she utilizes her silverware, and she even stirs her mother’s tea on a regular basis. “Do you think Myka would be proud that I did this?” Belle will ask Anne from time to time. Or she will turn to her little brother and say, “Good, Jack.

You’re eating over the plate!”

“She picked up some things from it, and I think it was a great thing, and I know she had fun doing it,” Anne says. “It was more of a fun activity than a class.”

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In our fast-paced world, in which families are eating together less often and informality seems to rule the day, it may seem as if manners and etiquette are a thing of the fabled past. But Belle is far from the only area child who’s learned a thing or two from a program like Beaumont’s. Schools, classes, and private teachers dedicated to spreading the gospel of good manners are still thriving in 2016.

“I think we’re all seeing a big increase in business because it’s becoming almost trendy again, it’s becoming cool,” Meier says. “I think the millennial generation and onward have a lot of new challenges in everyday life, and we have to cater to the changes that are happening around us.”

Manners vs. Etiquette

To understand what goes on in these programs, it’s helpful to define some terminology, starting with the fact that manners and etiquette are not, in fact, the same thing.

“Good manners never change,” says Michelle Sperry, founder and director of Fleur de Lis Academy in Norwalk. “For example, 100 years ago it wasn’t okay to bonk someone over the head and take their food. And, it still isn’t okay to do that.”

Etiquette, on the other hand, is culturally specific, dependent on time and place. “Etiquette is a set of rules,” Sperry continues. “It changes with each era, style, demographic, etc. For example, 100 years ago people used to eat with their hands. Now, we eat with forks and knives, although in some cultures they still eat with their hands. But, nonetheless, these things will change.”

Manners, then, are basic social skills, such as holding the door

for someone or sharing toys with friends, while etiquette programs cover modern American norms, which can include making eye contact with others or shaking hands.

“All parents want their child to be successful. However, success is not only measured in academia, but through the way we teach our children to show courtesy, respect, honesty, and politeness,” says Dianne Marsch, founder and director of the Etiquette School of Manhattan in Manhattan, NY.

Today’s Needs

Most parents who send their children to these programs have modest goals, seeking attainable improvements in their kids’ behavior. “Most of the time the parents just want the kids to listen a little bit more, to chew their food with their mouths closed—it’s mainly that. If these things are not addressed now, later on they will be harder to learn,” says Arely Mendoza-Cantos, founder and director of Always Gracious, a manners and etiquette school for youth on Long Island, NY. “I find that young kids are really eager to please their parents and show their manners.”

Many programs today include classes on digital etiquette—how to behave online, and how and when to put the device down and be present in the real world. “We have social media, and children especially are on computers all day and that sometimes is their preferred method of communication,” Meier says. “So, I found that they were losing really basic social skills.”

Despite the emphasis on technology and digital media, many of the schools find their more traditional classes, especially those covering mealtime behavior, are the most popular. Educating today’s youth on how to communicate clearly—face-to-face and through their screens—how to conduct themselves in professional settings, and how to act at the dinner table are skills that can have an impact on their future and ultimately give them an advantage over those who have not been brushing up.

“It’s interesting, a kid in our very modern world who has great social skills and great manners and great etiquette really stands out, because for most kids the bar is so low when it comes to social skills,” says Faye de Muyshondt, founder and director of the Manhattan, NY, etiquette school Socialsklz:-). “Parents are always trying to give our kids the competitive edge, but really the competitive edge in the modern world is an awesome set of social skills and a great foundation of manners and etiquette in life, because most kids don’t have it.”

With the introduction of social media and the rise of technology, there is a newfound urgency to etiquette education. “Is it okay to text someone who’s more senior than you and use emojis? Is it okay to still be writing old-fashioned thank you letters?

Just going over and making it a bit more relevant to today— that’s the whole point of it—for it to be practical etiquette that they use every day,” Meier says.

Despite our digital world’s dizzying pace of change, knowing how to chew your food politely or conduct yourself during an interview are skills that are ultimately timeless. On the other hand, maybe putting our pinkies up and carrying a handkerchief are, indeed, a bit outdated. The key is to find the balance, and today’s schools understand the difference.

“The more students we can teach all of these social, communication, and leadership skills to, it can change an entire generation,” Marsch says. “And I love every day that I can teach and make a difference in the life of someone.”

A GLIMPSE INSIDE LOCAL MANNERS AND ETIQUETTE PROGRAMS Alice Austen House 2 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 718-816-4506 info@aliceausten.org aliceausten.org The Alice Austen House isn’t primarily focused on etiquette, but there is a reason its programs include this topic: Austen, a prolific photographer in the early years of the medium, lived for many years with Gertrude Tate, who taught etiquette and manners. Family courses are offered at the house or programs can be set up in schools and can focus on social etiquette, communication skills, or table manners.

Always Gracious: The Academy of Etiquette 516-593-3817 alwaysgracious@optonline.net alwaysgracious.com Long Island’s Always Gracious has no set location, offering its programs—which include social etiquette, table etiquette, and image and style classes—in a family’s home, or for groups of 10 or more participants, on-site at a school or office. Lessons are also offered for the Spanishspeaking community.

Beaumont Etiquette 5 Columbus Circle, #1701, Manhattan, NY 212-390-1557 info@beaumontetiquette.com beaumontetiquette.com Beaumont Etiquette offers training one-on-one or in small groups and customizes courses based on a survey parents or guardians fill out about their child when they enroll. Beaumont Etiquette also offers online courses for children. In addition to classes on social skills and American dining manners, among others, its roster covers international dining and travel etiquette.

Etiquette School of Manhattan 101 W. 23rd St., Suite 525, Manhattan, NY 877-506-2663 dianne@etiquetteschool.org nyc.etiquetteschool.org At the Etiquette School of Manhattan, founder and director Dianne Marsch mostly avoids classrooms and teaches her courses at restaurants, in private groups, or in schools. In addition to programs about dining, basic manners, and social skills, the school offers classes that include parents and grandparents as well as a Nanny Educational Etiquette Certification program (also taught in Spanish). Marsch also works with many low-income families and at-risk kids, teaching them the skills they need to transition into adulthood.

Fleur de Lis Academy 327 Main Ave., Norwalk 203-210-7155 enrollmanners@gmail.com fleurdelisacademy.com Fleur de Lis Academy runs several programs, one of which is First Impressions, covering manners and etiquette. It offers classes, private and semi-private lessons, workshops, leadership training, in-school sessions, and other programs.

Socialsklz:-) 250 W. 85th St., Suite 1B, Manhattan, NY 212-579-5300 info@socialsklz.com socialsklz.com Socialsklz:-) offers many public workshops and caters to our digital age (hence the emoticon and slang in the title). It offers a wide range of courses, from basic workshops to technology courses to CAMPsocialsklz:-).

Megan Bailey is a former NYMetroParents intern.

Fairf ieldParent 17

FOOD & NUTRITION

Make Your Own Hot Cocoa

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Four hot chocolate recipes that use favorite flavor combinations. By Chelsie Jangord Nothing makes us enjoy winter more than coming in from the cold and enjoying a nice, steamy cup of hot cocoa. While these recipes call for specific vegan ingredients, feel free to use what you have in your cupboard.

Orange Hot Chocolate Makes 2-3 cups

Ingredients 3 cups non-dairy milk 2 Tbsp. cocoa powder 2 Tbsp. sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1/ 3 cup vegan chocolate chips Zest and juice of 1 orange Instructions In a saucepan over low heat, whisk together milk, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, orange juice, and zest. Once thoroughly combined and heated, pour into mugs and top with Dandies Mini Marshmallows. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa Mix

Yields: Approximately 3 cups of dry mix Ingredients Dandies Pumpkin Marshmallows 1 cup cocoa powder 1 bag of vegan chocolate chips, frozen 3 Tbsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 Tbsp. cornstarch ½ cup powdered sugar Instructions Add frozen chocolate chips (it is very important that they’ve been thoroughly frozen) to a food processor and blend until chips have turned into a fine powder. In a mixing bowl whisk together chocolate chip powder, cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, powdered sugar, and cornstarch. Fill a Mason jar with cocoa mix and top with Pumpkin Dandies to make a great gift that will stay good for up to a month.

To make a cup of a hot cocoa, bring 1½ cups of non-dairy milk to a boil, add 3-4 Tbsp. of mix, and stir. Reduce heat and let simmer, stirring often to remove any clumps. Taste as you go: If you like your cocoa on the sweeter side, add an extra tablespoon of mix. Top with Pumpkin Dandies and enjoy!

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Instructions In a saucepan over low heat, whisk together all the hot chocolate ingredients. Once thoroughly combined and heated, pour into mugs and top with Dandies. Up your game by drizzling on some additional peanut butter! The longer it sits the thicker it gets. If you prefer a thinner hot chocolate, you can add more non-dairy milk to reach the desired consistency.

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Fairf ieldParent 19

Kids Do the Weirdest Things

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Some of your child’s strangest behaviors and habits, explained by experts. By Laurie Sue Brockway

W

hen my son was in kindergarten, the teacher called me in to tell me the staff was taking up a collection so that I could buy him new clothing. He’d been wearing the same clothes every day for two weeks, and the staff assumed it was because I was not able to properly clothe him. It took everything for me not to burst out laughing as I explained that my son decided he would wear only black pants and a favorite black sweatshirt—so I’d bought him five pairs of the same pants and sweatshirts and washed his clothes constantly. But I told him that it was the same outfit every day. When the teacher asked if he had other clothes, he apparently said no.

Don’t get me started on the phase in which he insisted on wearing his Superman cape to school. Or the stuffed cat that had to be with us as all times. Kids do weird things. Really weird things. We asked experts to comment on some of the unusual traits we are bound to see as our kids grow.

Toddlers

Touching everything. If you feel like smudgy fingerprints cover every surface in your home, you’re not alone. “Many toddlers learn by touching,” says Mary Ellen Renna, M.D., a pediatrician in practice in Jericho, NY, and author of 10 Steps to Almost Perfect Parenting. “They are tactile learners. They need to touch, manipulate, open, tear, and pull items. They need to see what sounds they make, how they feel, what it tastes like.”

Eating and licking gross things. Toddlers do not discriminate 20

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when it comes or putting things in their mouths or up to their lips—dirt and snot included. “Children are inherently curious,” says Deena Blanchard, M.D., a Brooklyn, NY- and Manhattan, NY-based pediatric and postpartum depression expert with Premier Pediatrics and a mom of three boys. “As they grow and explore the world, they will explore with all their senses. Early exploration is often oral in nature.” That’s why parents have to make sure there are no small pieces of things on the floor or within grasp. “The good news is that as children get older these habits fade,” Dr. Blanchard says.

Flushing stuff down the toilet. Remember that time when you couldn’t find a toy or your sunglasses, and then you heard a splash? “Kids are attracted to the toilet more between ages 18 months and 2½ years, when they are developing their bathroom skills—toilet training,” Dr. Renna says. “Once they develop the aversion to their waste products, they don’t play around the toilet as much.”

Taking over cellphones. Phones and other mobile devices are very attractive because they are filled with colors and sounds, Dr. Renna says. “They also have games and songs that are entertaining.” That doesn’t mean they should play with them. “I don’t believe kids should have access to a parent’s phone,” she says. “Too much potential danger there.”

Small Children

Sticking things up their noses—and elsewhere. Kids are usually led by the desire to see how things fit into other things.

“It is rare for children to put things in various places to act out or purposely annoy their parents,” Dr. Blanchard says.

“It is much more likely that they are curious about what it would feel like to put a pretzel in their nose, or if a bead could fit inside their ear.” She says to talk to children about how their bodily orifices work and explain, We only put food in our mouths and that it’s not healthy or safe for your body to put things in your nose or ear. Most children grow out of these behaviors by age 5 or 6, or after they have to see a doctor to have something removed from an ear or nose. “It’s not actually a fun experience and that works in our favor as parents,” Dr. Blanchard says.

Peeing on, or in, stuff. While dogs do it to mark their territory, kids do it to experiment and explore. “I know a 4-year-old who urinated in a backpack because he wanted to see what it felt like,” Dr. Blanchard says. To make sure it doesn’t happen again, focus on the positive and make it a teachable moment. “For example,” she says, “you can say, ‘I sometimes wonder what things may feel like too. It is important to only go pee in the potty or your pull up so we can keep the house clean.’” Also, tell children to check with you if they aren’t sure about whether they should do something.

Clinging to an object of affection. Linus isn’t the only one who likes his security blanket. “The object in some way represents the parent who the child does not want to separate from,” says Gail Saltz, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychiatry at The New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornel School of Medicine and host of “The Power of Different” podcast. “The parent can come and go, so the object provides comfort and permanence in staying with the child and being snuggled or held.” Termed a transitional object, it can be a blanket, a stuffed animal, or toy—something that can be carried around. “Parents know if you leave it at home or it gets lost, there is hell to pay in the form of tantrums or refusal to go anywhere without it,” Dr. Saltz says.

Making animal noises and sounds. There are a number of things that inspire kids to roar, purr, or make odd or loud noises. “It may be dramatic play, actually pretending to be an animal,” says Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist. “It would not be unusual for a 3- or 4-year-old to pretend he or she was an animal until they tired of doing so.” It can also be to gain attention, or to make parents or peers laugh, she adds.

Inviting imaginary friends to dinner. Imaginary friends can be helpful to kids who have gone through trauma and can serve as allies to any child. “These friends are sometimes only in the child’s head but can sometimes be seen in great detail by the child,” Dr. Saltz says. “It may be one or multiple people, animals or fantasy beings and is often viewed in a real friend way, with discussion, shared feelings, and inclusion in family activities.” This is all a reflection of this child’s imagination and creativity, and is more likely to occur for a child who has enough unstructured play time to invent a friend, she says.

Stripping in public. “Young children can be unselfconscious about their bodies such that they may spontaneously strip off their clothing because they feel hot, or too restricted, or just like the feel of being naked—but obviously not when it’s cold out,” Dr. Tausig-Edwards says. “Sometimes, they may want to show the world their ‘big boy underpants’ or something they are proud of, which could also include genitalia if they feel this is

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important.” She says this behavior usually stops due to caregiver reprimands and/or pressure from peers in social situations such as birthday parties or playdates. It should clear up completely during the first year of preschool if not before.

Drawing a masterpiece on a freshly painted wall. Remember that time when your kids unleashed their inner Michelangelos in unsolicited wall murals—furniture, upholstery, and other items?

“This behavior can be an expression of artistic impulses and/or a method of gaining our attention,” Dr. Tausig-Edwards says. Or kids just think it is a good idea at the time. She suggests hanging large sheets of butcher paper with masking or some other nonmarking tape on all four corners and then invite your children to draw only on the paper. “You will know fairly quickly whether the driver of their behavior is more of an artistic impulse or more of an attention-getting one.”

Decorating a sibling’s face with magic markers. They’re not trying to ruin their sister or brother’s good looks out of jealousy.

“It’s usually part of fun, curiosity, or an imagination game,” Dr. Blanchard says. “It’s rarely manipulative or purposefully intent on upsetting someone. Kids are fun, curious little beings. They aren’t yet fully aware of the consequences of their actions and likely have not thought it through.” While this may lead to some coloring on your baby, it also leads to a time where your child is super fun to play with and talk to, she says. “Their minds are open and the world is their oyster. Try to embrace this period and guide your child in making good choices.”

Older Kids

Refusing to talk about their day at school. Some kids just need downtime when they get home.

“As a mom of three boys, I totally understand the frustration of asking your child how was your day at school and getting back, ‘fine.’” Dr. Blanchard says. “After a long day at school kids may not be in the mood to talk or review their day.”

Try asking your child more specific questions instead of broad ones, such as: What did you eat for lunch? Or, What made you smile today?

Or wait until bedtime to chat, when kids are more relaxed.

Giving the pet a makeover. Some kids like to dress up pets like dolls and put barrettes on long-haired dogs, but Rachel Barrack, a veterinarian with Animal Acupuncture, has also seen cases of kids trying to add color. “Kids love to color with markers and crayons, but keep these away from your pets,” says Barrack, who practices in NYC. She says that body glitter and nail polish are also not safe.

Holding pets (or siblings) up like Simba. The sweet scene in the Lion King inspires kids to hold their pets up like a baby lion.

However, Barrack says, “this is not only scary for them, but you can drop them.” That goes for little sister or brother, too. “We don’t want to encourage children to do any weird things with pets,” Barrack says, suggesting pet-friendly alternative activities such as cuddling, teaching and learning new tricks, exercise, reading, and “pet-friendly” arts and crafts.

Playing with prickly things. Some foods need close parental supervision. Naresh C. Rao, D.O., FAOASM, of Sports Medicine at Chelsea in Manhattan, NY, shares a cautionary tale about a

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

9-year-old sister and 6-year-old brother who saw a prickly pear in a grocery store. “The sister picked it up, and it felt fuzzy. She then told her brother to pick it up,” he says. “After both of them held it, they felt pain and told mom.” As it turned out, he says, “The slivers from the Prickly Pear had to be removed by a pediatric dermatologist because the spikes were so small that the doctor needed specialized equipment to have it removed from their skin.”

Creating obstacle courses. Dr. Rao, who lives in Scarsdale, NY, and was on Team USA’s sports medicine team for the 2016 Summer Olympics, has treated injuries relating to kids playing around in cars.

One 9-year-old boy decided to buckle all the seat belts in the back of mom’s minivan and swing through them like an obstacle course. “He then convinced his 11-year-old sister to join him,” Dr. Rao says. “She got through one but then got caught up in the next one. It was so tightly wrapped around her body that the latching mechanism would not release.” The seat belt needed to be cut to free her.

Tweens

Girls going gaga over male pop idols. It’s a rite of passage that harkens back beyond Elvis and the Beatles and the Backstreet Boys.

“Teen idols are often fantasy romantic partners when tweens and teens first start to have crushes,” Dr. Saltz says. “It is a safe way to express and experience romantic and sexual feelings in an exciting way.” Teens and tweens feel close to the idol by going to concerts and playing their music, which explains why parents find themselves shelling out money for tickets, T-shirts, and posters. Because adolescent brains are more primed for risk taking and emotionality, a teen may go to great lengths to be close to and experience their idol, Dr. Saltz says.

Boys using potty humor.

“Boys love potty humor—farts and poop jokes never get old— and that’s why they will read a series like Captain Underpants over and over again,” says Hillary Tubin, former literacy educator and author of Boys and Books: What You Need to Know. “Boys also love to read in the weirdest positions: standing, squeezed into a tiny space, in a fort, on their backs with their arms raised and the book high in the air, and while moving around to name a few.” She says boys are the happiest when they get to read a book such as Captain Underpants squeezed into a tiny space made into a fort, with a flashlight in hand and their favorite pet close by.

Being tied to electronic devices. The romance begins early on and by the time kids have cellphones and iPads they might as well have been born with the device firmly attached to their hand. Texting is how teens communicate. “We live in a world of constant motion and as such they grab anything to keep constantly busy,” says technology expert Donna Conroy, co-founder of House Monkey. Always monitor use, she says, and get kids to take a time-out from devices as much as possible.

Laurie Sue Brockway is a journalist and author who has written extensively on love, romance, marriage, parenting, well-being, and emotional health. Her work has appeared in hundreds of print and online publications, including Woman’s Day, Everyday Health, and The Huffington Post.

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Market Fairf ieldParent 23

Courtesy MSG Entertainment Courtesy Billy Beez

Courtesy Cradle of Aviation Museum

Courtesy Brooklyn Boulders

Celebrate the holidays with the beloved Radio City Rockettes and witness the iconic kickline.

Kids take in the view at Brooklyn Boulders. A Grumman F-11ATiger, one of 75 aircraft at Cradle of Aviation Museum Billy Beez’s play space will keep the kids busy for hours.

A Staycation a Day

››

Ideas for seven fun-filled family days around our region. By Bethany Braun-Silva

T

here’s no better way to create lasting memories as a family than taking a trip together, especially around the holidays. As a mom of two young boys, however, I know how hard—and expensive—it can be to take a trip. The good news is you don’t need to get on an airplane or even stay at a hotel to have a memorable and exciting winter break. The New York metro area offers such a wealth of things to do with kids that there are virtually endless possibilities for a “vacation” right here at home. To help, we’ve created a list of seven great local “staycation” itineraries—a week’s worth of kid-focused fun for you and your family to enjoy this holiday season.

Brooklyn, NY

Courtesy Stepping Stones Museum for Children

Check out Brooklyn Boulders, at which adults and kids can scale mountain-like fixtures in Boerum Hill.

You can also experience a bit of history at the New York Transit Museum in Downtown Brooklyn. Got an animal-lover on your hands? Head to Coney Island and visit the New York Aquarium to marvel at the sea turtles, sharks, seals, and more.

Fairfield County

The Stepping Stones Museum for Children offers kids educational fun.

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Check out the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, which is home to a special “Animals Without Passports” exhibit through Jan. 2, 2017. The Stepping Stones Museum for Children, also in Norwalk, offers a great variety of activities, including Zumba® classes for kids and an Elf Workshop in which children can create their own Christmas tree ornament. Top off the day by catching a performance of The Nutcracker at The Palace in Stamford.

December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

Long Island, NY

Garden City’s Cradle of Aviation Museum features more than 75 aircraft and spacecraft, a dozen cockpits, and 30 hands-on exhibits. You can keep the learning going with a trip to Sagamore Hill in Oyster Bay, Theodore Roosevelt’s home, which offers tours and ranger activities for kids. Kids can also enjoy troutfeeding demonstrations and tours at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium in Cold Spring Harbor and take a trip back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration in Old Bethpage, at which they can take part in the junior apprenticeship program, dress in authentic period clothing, and learn historic crafts.

Manhattan, NY

Start at everyone’s favorite, the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side. You can then take a short trip downtown—walk through Central Park if it’s not too cold—to experience the holiday fun

at Rockefeller Center or take in the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Finish up with some grub at Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Midtown, since you’re sure to be hungry.

PARTIES ARE FUN & EASY!

Include all activities, arcade tokens, pizza and party host!

Queens, NY

Head to Corona to experience GingerBread Lane at the New York Hall of Science. It won the Guinness World Record—in 2013, 2014, and 2015—for the largest gingerbread village. You can also see a family-friendly show at Flushing Town Hall or check out the annual Holiday Market there. Next, head over to Funtopia USA for some arcade fun in Middle Village.

Courtesy New York Hall of Science

INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK & FUN ZONE

Kids take in the amazing feat that is GingerBread Lane at the New York Hall of Science.

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Rockland County, NY

Head to the Palisades Center in West Nyack for some serious family fun all in one place. Kids and adults can take on the ropes course at Palisades Climb Adventure. Afterward, parents can sit back while their kids jump and play at Billy Beez, an indoor play space. Younger kids will enjoy the Ferris wheel and carousel just off the food court, while older ones can catch a movie or IMAX and go ice-skating.

280 Garfield Ave, Stratford, CT • 203-989- 3357

Does Your Kid need a haircut?

Westchester County, NY

Courtesy Legoland Discovery Center

Have a museum-filled day at the Katonah Museum of Art in Katonah or the Westchester Children’s Museum in Rye (or both!).

Afterward, head over to Ridge Hill in Yonkers for an afternoon at Legoland Discovery Center, to experience the festive creations at Bricktacular. Walk just a block or two within Ridge Hill to find a bite to eat or be truly adventurous and try indoor skydiving at iFly.

ResouRces ARticles

Find everything you need, faster at

Kids can build and learn with Legos at Legoland Discovery Center.

Fairf ieldParent 25

OUTINGS: Vanderbilt Museum

nymetroparents.com/outings

Mansion, Museum, and Planetarium 1

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Courtesy Vanderbilt Museum

William K. Vanderbilt II, who was an ocean and natural world enthusiast, posthumously helped to turn his sprawling estate into a museum for marine-life and natural history. ›› By Melissa A. Kay

3

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1 Winter is a festive time at the mansion. 2 The museum is home to numerous pieces of fine art. 3 The Vanderbilt’s Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium offers fun and educational programs for kids and adults. 4 William K. Vanderbilt II collected tools from expeditions around the world, which can be seen in exhibits in the museum. 5 The mansion is a “living museum,” which can be toured regularly.

Vanderbilt Museum is a wonderful educational experience and an interesting and exciting combination of mansion, marine and natural history museum, planetarium, and park.

Year-Round Fun

The mansion offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a renowned family from the Jazz Age through the end of World War II. Set atop 43 breathtaking acres, see the SpanishRevival style mansion and its distinctive architecture. Check out oceanic expeditions, global journeys, islands, marine life, bird and insect life, and more in the many exhibits at the museum. Specimens in the exhibits show the artisanal talents of Asian, Pacific, and African cultures including their artifacts, clothing, and utensils. The Reichert Planetarium is one of the most advanced in the country. Visitors can see seasonal shows and special features created for families and school audiences under the 60-foot dome.

The $4 million makeover has revealed new seating, a renovated lobby, and a gift shop.

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

December Highlights

Come to Vanderbilt to hear live Beatles music in the planetarium. On Dec. 11 from 7-8:30pm, The Liverpool Shuffle, a Long Island Beatles tribute band, will play songs beloved by generations under the dome. Tickets are $20 for adults in advance or $25 at the door. Kids ages 5-15 pay $15 and kids ages 5 and younger may attend for free. While the band plays, a montage will be projected into the planetarium’s dome, featuring 1960’s photos, news clippings, pop-culture iconic moments, and more. On various dates in December, see Laser Holidays, an all-ages program featuring laser lights and digital artwork set to holiday music. The kids will enjoy the music in an exquisite venue with family and friends.

Annual Events

Through Jan. 2, 2017, come to the planetarium to see Long Island Skies. Following the program, and weather permitting, the planetarium staff will open the Observatory.

One World, One Sky depicts Sesame Street’s

Elmo and Big Bird, who discover that they see the same stars as their friend Hu Hu Zhu, who lives in China. Night Sky, Live! features lectures by an astronomy educator who will use the planetarium’s Starball to show viewers what the Long Island night sky will look like on the very day they visit the venue.

Details

Address: 180 Little Neck Road,

Centerport, NY

Directions: Approximately a 1½-hour drive

from Norwalk Hours: Through April 10, 2017: museum: Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday, 124pm (the last mansion tour is at 4pm); planetarium: Tuesday, Friday-Sunday, see website for show times.

Admission: $7; $6 students with ID and seniors ages 62 and older; $3 children 12 and younger. Planetarium show and mansion tours: an additional $5 each per person.

For more information: 631-854-5579 or vanderbiltmuseum.org

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Turn the page for details on 8th Annual Greenwich Holiday Stroll Weekend (No. 2 on our list).

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DECEMBER CALENDAR

28 Editor’s Hot Tickets 30 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!,

Animal Lovers

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nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: KAREN DEMETER ffeditor@davlermedia.com

33 Show Time!,

Must-Sees in NYC 34 Holiday Fun

31 Once Upon a Time

35 On Screen

32 The Great Outdoors,

Movers & Shakers

36 Crafty Kids,

Smarty Pants

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EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 10 events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to.

Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!

1

Lego KidsFest®

WHEN: Dec. 2-4, Friday, 4-8:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-1:30pm and 3-7:30pm WHERE: CT Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd., Hartford AGES: All WHAT: Lego KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of Lego building and experiences together in this entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Lego appeals to all ages and is a great family activity!

WANT TO GO? $19-$22; free for children younger than 3. 877-5284757. legokidsfest.com.

8th Annual Greenwich Holiday Stroll Weekend FREE

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WHEN: Dec. 3-4, Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Downtown Greenwich, Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: This holiday event features a live nativity, horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, and entertainment tents.

WHY WE LOVE IT: There will even be a designated station to write a letter to Santa!

WANT TO GO? 203-531-3047. greenwichreindeerfestival.com.

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Festival of Lights FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 9, 5-9pm WHERE: Mystic Aquarium & Olde Mistick Village, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic AGES: All WHAT: Hundreds of luminaria light up the village and aquarium while seasonal entertainment and storytellers keep the holiday spirit. Food donations benefit the Gemma E. Moran United Way Labor Food Center.

WHY WE LOVE IT: After your stroll, you’re invited to sip hot chocolate and visit with Santa while enjoying aquarium exhibits.

WANT TO GO? Free with non-perishable food item donation. 860-5725955. mysticaquarium.org.

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

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STEM for Kids FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 20: Tuesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore, experiment, build, and have fun with science, technology, engineering, and math. Each week will be a different topic.

Registration required.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will be challenged to learn and have fun at the same time!

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

‘Elf The Musical’

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WHEN: Dec. 20-24, Tuesday-Wednesday, 7pm; Thursday, 1pm and 7pm; Friday, 2pm and 7:30pm; Saturday, 11am WHERE: Shubert Theater, 247 College St., New Haven AGES: 5 and older WHAT: With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.

WHY WE LOVE IT: No one embodies the holiday spirit better than Buddy the elf!

WANT TO GO? $42 and up. 203-562-5666. shubert.com.

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‘Frosty the Snowman’

WHEN: Through Dec. 29: Saturday-Sunday, 12pm and 2:30pm WHERE: Downtown Cabaret Theatre, 263 Golden Hill St., Bridgeport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: All it takes is some snow, some clever children, and a magic hat to bring Frosty the Snowman to life in this brand-new cabaret original.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This new take on an old story will get everyone into the holiday spirit.

WANT TO GO? $23. 203-576-1636. downtowncabaret.org.

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

nymetroparents.com/register ››

7

Planning an Activity or Event for Children or Families?

Santa Dives with Sharks

WHEN: Dec. 1-31, Thursday and Saturday-Sunday, 12:15pm and 2:15pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Santa Claus will join The Maritime Aquarium’s dive team to demonstrate that sharks aren’t the blood-thirsty killers of myth.

WHY WE LOVE IT: And you thought coming down the chimney was risky...

WANT TO GO? $22.95; $20.95 children ages 13-17; $15.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 203-8520700. maritimeaquarium.org.

016 2 s e i t i v i ct Frida Family A Thurssday 6

Holiday Express Train Show

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WHEN: Dec. 2-Jan. 8, 2017: daily, 10am-4pm WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: Model trains wind around a winter wonderland of a spectacularly decorated tree and beautiful holiday scenery.

NYMetroParents.com/ WHY WE LOVE IT: A perfect holiday scene...in miniature!

WANT TO GO? $5; $3 seniors and students; free for children younger than 6. 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

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2016 Festival of Lighthouses Contest

WHEN: Through Jan. 16, 2017: daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Aquarium galleries will be illuminated by 20 lighthouses, creatively built by area artists and amateurs.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Past lighthouses have been made out of unusual materials such as furnace filters, paper clips, candy, gingerbread, and crocheted yarn.

WANT TO GO? $22.95; $20.95 children ages 13-17; $15.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 203-8520700. maritimeaquarium.org.

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A Billion Bricks: Lego® Super Heroes in Gotham

Get FREE Exposure on

10

WHEN: Through Feb. 5, 2017: MondaySaturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford AGES: All WHAT: The team from ILUGNY will recreate a fantasy Gotham City, featuring some of the most iconic buildings in New York City.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s always neat to see a city like New York built out of Lego® bricks.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 4-17; free for children younger than 4. 203-322-1646. stamfordmuseum.org. ››

27 26 25

Submit your entries online to

FairfieldParent.com/submitevent All entries subject to editor’s review and acceptance.

Announce it to more than 100,000 parents who are visiting Fairf ieldParent.com every month.

Be featured on the largest family activities Calendar in the metropolitan New York area.

Fairf ieldParent 29

Holiday Open House/5th Anniversary Celebration FREE

WHEN: Dec. 10-11, Saturday, 11am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Fairfield University Bookstore, 1499 Post Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: On Saturday at 1pm, Santa will arrive by fire truck and Fairfield University’s a cappella groups perform. On Sunday, there will be an interactive music demonstration.

WANT TO GO? 203-255-7756. fairfieldbookstore.com.

ANIMAL LOVERS First Sunday Bird Walk FREE

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

Backyard Birding 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.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 10-11am WHERE: Connecticut Audubon Society, 2325 Burr St., Fairfield AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn to identify Connecticut’s birds, find out about bird feeding habits, and receive tips on ways to attract birds to your feeders.

WANT TO GO? 203-259-6305. ctaudubon.org.

Pillow Concert: Suzuki All Stars FREE

Tales to Tails FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 3pm WHERE: Suzuki Music School of Westport, The Blake Recital Room, 246 Post Road E., Westport AGES: All WHAT: Bring a pillow and see the Suzuki School’s senior students performing Sibelius, Prokofiev, and Beethoven.

WANT TO GO? 203-227-9474. suzukischools.org/pillow-concerts.

Caryn Lin and her Electric Violin FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 5, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Children see three-dimensional sound waves as Lin plays all varieties of music from Bach to techno. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Shubert Backstage Tours FREE

WHEN: Dec. 3-7, Saturday and Wednesday, 11am WHERE: Shubert Theater, 247 College St., New Haven AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Discover the incredible history of the legendary Shubert. Meet at the main lobby doors.

WANT TO GO? 203-562-5666. shubert.com.

Chamber Singers of the Fairfield County Children’s Choir FREE WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 7pm WHERE: St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School Fairfield, 1719 Post Road, Fairfield AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The Fairfield Country Children’s Choir who will present a concert featuring renaissance, holiday, and gospel vocal selections.

WANT TO GO? 866-581-1812. fairfieldcampfair.com.

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WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 9-11am WHERE: Greenwich Point Park, Tods Driftway and Shore Road, Old Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: Meet on the beach near the southern concession stand.

Bring binoculars.

WANT TO GO? 203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 17, 11am-12pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Ridgefield Operation Animal Rescue’s Therapy Dog Program will be bringing therapy dogs to the library for children to read to them.

Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Breakfast with Frosty and Friends

WHEN: Dec. 10-24, Saturday-Sunday, 9-10am WHERE: Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Take pictures with Frosty, Stripes the Tiger, and Thirsty—Aquarion’s penguins—while you enjoy breakfast. Reservations recommended.

WANT TO GO? $20; free for children younger than 3. 203-394-6563. beardsleyzoo.org.

8th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Village

WHEN: Through Dec. 24: Monday-Friday, 12-6pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 9am-4pm. Reindeer feedings: daily, 9am and 3:30pm WHERE: Sam Bridge Nursery and Greenhouses, 437 North St., Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: Visitors can have their photo taken with Santa, meet the reindeer, and ride on a holiday carousel and the North Pole Express Train.

WANT TO GO? $29.99 and up for photo packages. 203-531-3047. greenwichreindeerfestival.com.

Animals Without Passports Special Exhibit

WHEN: Through Jan. 2, 2017: daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All

Classic Book Discussion FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Stratford Library, 2203 Main St., Stratford AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Bring your favorite holiday classic to share. Holiday refreshments and suggestions of wonderful books will be provided.

WANT TO GO? 203-385-4167. stratfordlibrary.org.

Mysterious Book Society FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 4:30pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Discuss Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling.

Register online.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

‘My Weird School’ Book Club FREE WHAT: Learn the challenges of humpback whales’ annual 3,000-mile migration between New England and the Caribbean.

WANT TO GO? $19.95; $17.95 children ages 13-17; $12.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Last Days of Pangaea: In the Footsteps of the Dinosaurs

WHEN: Through April 3, 2017: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: The exhibit features fossils and life restoration models of some of the species that thrived in the Triassic period.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 students; free for children younger than 5 and on Tuesdays. 203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Animal Feedings at Earthplace

WHEN: Through Jan. 1, 2017: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 11am; Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 4pm WHERE: Earthplace, 10 Woodside Lane, Westport AGES: All WHAT: Join Earthplace staff in the Animal Hall and Connecticut Birds of Prey exhibit for scheduled feeding times. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, watch the animals in Animal Hall get fed. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, it’s time to feed the Birds of Prey. The activity takes place year-round.

WANT TO GO? $7; $5 children ages 1-12. 203-227-7253. earthplace.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME!

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 18, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Stratford Library, 2203 Main St., Stratford AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Come enjoy this hilarious series with other My Weird School fans.

WANT TO GO? 203-385-4167. stratfordlibrary.org.

Show Me a Tale: ‘The Crystal Heart: A Vietnamese Legend’ WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 18, 2-3pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Listen to this Vietnamese legend and create a woven miniature basket boat.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

December Story Times

WHEN: Dec. 6-21, Tuesday-Wednesday, 10:15-10:45am WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children sing songs, listen to stories, and enjoy playtime while building literacy and social skills.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Choo Choo Storytime

WHEN: Dec. 7-28, Wednesday-Thursday, 10:30-11am WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Discover adventures on the tracks with books that spark the imagination.

WANT TO GO? $5; $3 children ages 6-22; free for children younger than 6. 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org. ››

Author Rob Wilder FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 1, 7pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Rob Wilder talks about his new title and first young adult novel, Nickel.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

Mother and Daughter Book Club FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 3-4pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Read Eleanor Estes’s iconic book The Hundred Dresses, which teaches a life lesson about the power of kindness.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Fairf ieldParent 31

Rising Tides Exhibition

WHEN: Through Feb. 28, 2017: daily, 10am-4pm WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: Discover the Fairfield shoreline’s long history of coastal resilience through photographs, artifacts, and documents. Examine how climate change presents new challenges for the future.

WANT TO GO? $5; $3 for children younger than 12. 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Fun with Lynn Lewis FREE

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Tree Lighting Ceremony FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 1, 4pm WHERE: Stew Leonard’s-Danbury, 99 Federal Road, Danbury AGES: All WHAT: Hot cocoa, face painting, fire trucks, Rudolph, and Stew Leonard’s Wow the Cow get families into the holiday spirit.

WANT TO GO? 203-790-8030. stewleonards.com.

Wilton Holiday Stroll FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 2, 5:30-7:30pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy refreshments and the warmth of the fireplace and take an “ornament” from the Giving Tree to help the library with its wish list.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Family Nature Adventures: Wildlife CSI

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: New Canaan Nature Center, 144 Oenoke Ridge, New Canaan AGES: 3-12, adult WHAT: Observe the animal clues left behind at the scene of a natural “crime.”

WANT TO GO? $15. 203-966-9577. newcanaannature.org.

Fall Celestial Viewing with Maker Kevin Green FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6-9pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: All WHAT: Join physics and astronomy professor Kevin Green for celestial viewing with the library telescopes, weather permitting.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

Lantern Light Tours

WHEN: Through Dec. 23: Friday-Saturday, 5pm WHERE: Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Each lantern light tour is a 70-minute progressive performance that leads the audience through locations around Mystic Seaport to tell a heartwarming holiday story based on the classic The Nutcracker.

WANT TO GO? $32; $25 children ages 5-17; free for children younger than 5. 860-572-5331. mysticseaport.org.

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 2, 11am-12pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: There will be songs and dancing for all. Lewis will bring a special friend so that kids can play with him.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Accessibility Day

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 9am-5pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, Mathews Park, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Reduced admission for families of those with special needs.

WANT TO GO? $3. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

Closer to Our Community: Aquarium Food Drive Weekend

WHEN: Dec. 10-11, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Donations will go to Person-to-Person of Norwalk, a community-supported agency that provides emergency assistance to those in need.

WANT TO GO? $22.95; $20.95 children ages 13-17; $15.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Fairfield Museum Hosts Al’s Angels Toy Drive

WHEN: Dec. 5-11, check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: Bring a new, unwrapped toy when you visit Holiday Express Train Show and receive one free admission. The toys will be distributed to children with cancer, rare blood diseases, and financial hardship.

WANT TO GO? $5; $3 children ages 6-22; free for children younger than 6. 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

Itsy Bitsy Playgroup FREE

WHEN: Dec. 7-14, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Temple Sholom, 300 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich AGES: 2 and younger WHAT: Led by an early childhood and music specialist, this playgroup provides moms and their babies the opportunity to bond during music time, gross motor play, and more.

WANT TO GO? 203-869-7191. templesholom.com.

Movement and Dance Winter Fun for Little Ones FREE WHEN: Dec. 5-19, Mondays, 11-11:30am WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: Newborn to 5, adult WHAT: Moving, grooving, jumping, shaking and singing.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Stamford Symphony Presents Handel’s Messiah Featuring The Pro Arte Singers

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 8pm WHERE: Basilica of St. John the Evangelist, 279 Atlantic St., Stamford AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Stamford Symphony will be performing an abbreviated version of the Messiah that will include Part I and the Hallelujah Chorus.

WANT TO GO? $25-$55. 203-325-4466. stamfordsymphony.org.

CityBound

Must-Sees in N Y C Jayme Thornton

SHOW TIME!

Free Family Concert: Argus Quartet FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 3-4pm WHERE: Byram Shubert Library, 21 Mead Ave., Greenwich AGES: 5 and older WHAT: As Yale’s fellowship quartet-in-residence, the Argus Quartet performs classic chamber music alongside new works. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? 203-531-0426. curiosityconcerts.org.

A Joyful Noise: Percussion FREE

New Haven Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’ FREE

WHEN: Dec. 9-11, Friday, 7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 1pm and 5pm WHERE: Shubert Theater, 247 College St., New Haven AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Artistic Director Lisa Sanborn’s production, performed by students of New Haven Ballet and featuring the New Haven Ballet Orchestra.

WANT TO GO? $25.50 and up. 203-562-5666. shubert.com.

Holiday Music From Pizzazz Strings Ensemble FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 11, 2pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: All WHAT: Selections include Vivaldi, Strauss, and jazzy and pop Christmas and Hanukkah favorites.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

I’m With The Band The best-selling, award-winning, Laurie Berkner Band rolls into town this month for one morning only! This special holiday concert will celebrate the season with a mix of traditional songs, Berkner classics, and new songs. Berkner is famous for being the queen of kiddie rock and performing shows that little ones love but don’t send the parents to sleep. Get your tickets early! Dec. 3; 11am.

Age: All. $37.50-$100. New York Society for Ethical Culture, 2 W. 64th St., Upper West Side. 212-799-5000. laurieberkner.com

John Minchillo / AP Images for Macy’s Inc

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 3-4pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: All WHAT: Members of the Norwalk Symphony demonstrate instruments, play for the children, and answer questions.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Pink Martini Holiday Spectacular

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 16, 8pm WHERE: Shubert Theater, 247 College St., New Haven AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The ensemble’s vintage-chic style is a concoction of sultry Latin music, swinging jazz, cabaret, and more, with a twist of holiday gems.

WANT TO GO? $34 and up. 203-562-5666. shubert.com.

Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance Presents ‘The Nutcracker’

WHEN: Dec. 16-18, Friday, 6pm; Saturday, 2pm and 6pm; Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: The Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E. Ridge Road, Ridgefield AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Tchaikovsky’s soaring score, graceful ballerinas, wooden soldiers who come to life, and a bigger-than-life Christmas tree make the holidays bright.

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 children. 203-438-5795. ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

‘Radio City Christmas Spectacular’ Featuring The Rockettes

WHEN: Through Jan. 2, 2017: see website for show times WHERE: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Sixth Ave., Midtown, Manhattan, NY AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrate the holiday season in a way that only Radio City can deliver: with this celebrated Christmas spectacle in an iconic venue.

WANT TO GO? $46 and up. 866-858-0007. radiocitychristmas.com. ››

The North Pole On 34th Street Macy’s Santaland starts just after Thanksgiving and sees our hero in a red suit turn the 8th floor of the famous store into a Christmassy North Pole. Complete with cheerful elves, animatronic displays, presents, and most importantly, Santa himself! Book early for a shorter wait time; this is one of New York City’s most famous holiday treats. Don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa. For shorter wait times come early in the day and in the season, or book a Santaland Express Pass to skip the line.

Nov. 25-Dec. 24. 9am-9pm (with some exceptions, see website).

Age: All. Free to visit and photography package purchase is optional. Packages start at $20.99. Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., Midtown. 212-695-4400. macys.com/santaland.

Fairf ieldParent 33

AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Celebrate Hanukkah with Latin Grammy award-winning artist Mister G and a funky musical journey in English, Spanish, Yiddish, and Hebrew.

WANT TO GO? $25. 203-552-1818. jccgreenwich.org.

Greenwich Choral Society’s Holiday Concert: Holiday Brass

WHEN: Dec. 3-4, Saturday, 4pm; Sunday, 2:30pm and 5pm WHERE: Christ Church, 254 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: This year’s concert features Jonathan Willcocks’ Magnificat, a melodious and rhythmical setting of the Song of Mary from the Gospel of Luke.

WANT TO GO? $28-$45. 203-622-5136. greenwichchoralsociety.org.

Christmas with the Celts

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 9, 8pm WHERE: Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E. Ridge Ave., Ridgefield AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This is a celebration of the holiday spirit, people, community, and common connections.

WANT TO GO? $47.50. 203-438-5795. ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

Latkes and Pajamas FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 9, 5:30pm WHERE: Temple Sholom, 300 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy a Friday night Shabbat dinner filled with ruach (spirit), singing, and dancing. Kids can wear their pajamas.

WANT TO GO? 203-869-7191. templesholom.com.

Holiday Handbell Performance

HOLIDAY FUN Munchkin Morning with Santa

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 2, 8:30-10am WHERE: Mystic Aquarium, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic AGES: All WHAT: Children enjoy fun seasonal and animal-themed crafts and activities, as well as a visit with Santa.

WANT TO GO? $30; $18 children. 860-572-5955. mysticaquarium.org.

Family Holiday Happenings: Breakfast with Santa

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 9:30am WHERE: Garden Education Center, 130 Bible St., Cos Cob AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Bring your family and friends to celebrate the season together.

Registraton required.

WANT TO GO? $10; $4 children. 203-869-9242. gecgreenwich.org.

35th Anniversary Production of ‘The Nutcracker’

WHEN: Dec. 3-4, Saturday, 3pm and 7pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Staples High School, 70 North Ave., Westport AGES: 3 and older WHAT: This is the 35th anniversary performance of The Nutcracker performed by Westport’s Academy of Dance Students along with special guests.

WANT TO GO? $25; $15 students and seniors. 203-226-9987. westportdance.com.

Hanukkah Party Featuring Mister G

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 3-5pm WHERE: Carmel Academy, 270 Lake Ave., Greenwich 34

December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 2pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a holiday handbell performance by Shelton’s Trinity Lutheran Church Bell Choir.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

St. Lucia Swedish Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 5:15-7:30pm WHERE: Christ and Holy Trinity Church, 75 Church Lane, Westport AGES: All WHAT: The Swedish School of CT will hold its annual children’s Lucia procession and concert. Afterward, enjoy traditional Swedish pastries and shopping.

WANT TO GO? $15; $40 per family. smartkidswithld.org.

Wilton Singers Holiday Sing

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 11, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: All WHAT: Wilton Singers perform highlights from their Holiday Feast and invite the audience to sing along. Santa will pay a visit, and a portion of the proceeds support Wilton Library.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children; $20 per family. 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Solstice Celebration FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 21, 6-7pm WHERE: Stratford Library, 2203 Main St., Stratford AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Sing holiday songs and make a lantern to bring home to

brighten the dark days of winter.

WANT TO GO? 203-385-4167. stratfordlibrary.org.

North Pole Comes to Stepping Stones

WHEN: Dec. 3-24, Saturdays, 11am-12pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Meet and greet with Santa, take pictures, and meet some of Santa’s friends. Enjoy a colorful scratch-art activity while waiting for your turn.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

Chanukah Celebration FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 27, 4-4:30pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Celebrate the Festival of Lights with stories and songs.

Children are invited to share what they know or learn something new.

Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Winterfest

WHEN: Dec. 26-Jan. 1, 2017, Monday-Sunday, 10am-3pm WHERE: Mystic Aquarium, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic AGES: All WHAT: Holiday toys come to life; chefs create masterpieces from ice, chocolate, and gingerbread; and Santa will be at his workshop. Bring an unused toy to donate.

WANT TO GO? $34.99; $28.99 children ages 13-17; $24.99 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 860-572-5955. mysticaquarium.org.

WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Academy Award-winner Morgan Freeman lends his voice to this film, which follows orphaned baby orangutans and elephants and the people who rescue and raise them for eventual release back into the wild.

WANT TO GO? $9.50; $7 children ages 2-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘A Beautiful Planet’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Made in cooperation with NASA, the film features a breathtaking portrait of Earth and the effects humanity has had on it over time, captured by the astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

WANT TO GO? $9.50; $7 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘National Parks Adventure’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Join world-class mountaineer Conrad Anker, photographer Max Lowe, and artist Rachel Pohl as they bike, hike, and climb their way across America’s most pristine parks.

WANT TO GO? $9.50; $7 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean’

ON SCREEN

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: see website for dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: The film introduces audiences to more than 30 species of animals—some no bigger than 1 inch long, but shown in exquisite detail on the aquarium’s six-story screen.

WANT TO GO? $11.50; $10.50 children ages 13-17; $9.50 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ FREE

‘The Polar Express’

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 19, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Watch the movie and make a Charlie Brown Christmas tree in miniature form. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

‘The Polar Express’ Pajama Parties

WHEN: Dec. 10-18, Saturday-Sunday, 9am WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Come in pajamas, enjoy a gourmet hot chocolate, then watch the The Polar Express on the IMAX screen. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $17; $15 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

WHEN: Through Jan. 2, 2017: see the website for dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: 3 and older WHAT: On Christmas Eve, a magical locomotive takes children on a magical trip to the North Pole to show them that Santa Claus really does exist.

WANT TO GO? $11.50; $10.50 children ages 13-17; $9.50 children ages 2-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org. ››

Vacation Film Festival FREE

WHEN: Dec. 27-29, Tuesday-Thursday, 2pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Watch The Good Dinosaur on Tuesday, Home on Wednesday, and The Secret Life of Pets on Thursday.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

‘Born to Be Wild’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: call, text, or go online for IMAX show times

Fairf ieldParent 35

Candy House Workshop

WHEN: Dec. 10-11, Saturday, 10-11:30am and 12-1:30pm; Sunday, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: Bring a holiday scene decorated with gumdrops, peppermints, marshmallows, licorice, and delicious treats to life.

WANT TO GO? $15 per house. 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

Dewey Knit FREE

WHEN: Dec. 7-14, Wednesdays, 4pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn how to knit, get help with a project, or just hang out to knit.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

Art Adventures: Contemporary Art

CRAFTY KIDS Creative Kids: Dragonflies

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 2-3pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Decorate a bamboo dragonfly balancing toy and learn about Vietnamese culture.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

Workshop with Artist-in-Residence Miggs Burroughs FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 6, 4pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Brainstorm ideas for creating your own word cloud, as part of the monthly artist-in-residence challenge. For all artistic abilities.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

Holiday Ornaments for Middle School Students FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 7, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Make holiday ornaments. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Cranberry Wreath Making

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Connecticut Audubon Society, 2325 Burr St., Fairfield AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Create festive wreaths to brighten your holiday table or front door.

WANT TO GO? $18 per wreath. 203-259-6305 x109. ctaudubon.org.

Korean Creations: Illuminated Sutra Scrolls

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 11, 11-11:45am and 12-12:45pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Join local Korean-American artist Leeah Joo to illustrate a story in the style of the ancient Korean monks.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 18, 1-3pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Participants craft fun and creative works of art inspired by the museum’s collections and exhibitions.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 students; free for children younger than 5.

203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Holiday Crafts FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 18, 1-4:30pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Make a gingerbread ornament or a pipe cleaner candy cane.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Build a Train Workshop

WHEN: Dec. 27-30, Tuesday-Friday, 11am-12pm and 1-2pm WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Bring a smock and put together wooden parts with glue to construct a mini model train.

WANT TO GO? $5. 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

SMARTY PANTS Family Day: Dinosaurs!

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 1-4pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy activities inspired by the museum’s collections and exhibits with a Digging Dinosaurs performance by a Diane Edgecomb at 2pm.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 students; free for children younger than 5.

203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Family Maker Sunday: Little Bits FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 1:30-4:30pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: No soldering, wiring, or programming needed to use these electronic building blocks to create inventions and simple machines.

WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

Cursive Class FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 8, 4-5pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Practice the lost art of cursive handwriting. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Performance Series: Vietnamese Heritage Center

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 17, 2-3pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Learn about the language and culture of Vietnam while enjoying a traditional dance and game.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 7, 2017 2 PM – 4 PM

Homeschool at The Aldrich: Glisten, Glimmer, Glow

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 23, 10-11:30am WHERE: Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Create artwork that glows, drawing inspiration from exhibiting artist Peter Liversidge’s RGB light installation.

WANT TO GO? $15. 203-438-4519. aldrichart.org.

EverWonder Experience

WHEN: Dec. 1-31, Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: EverWonder Children’s Museum, 31 Pecks Lane, Newtown AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: EverWonder cultivates a lifelong love of learning in children by encouraging them to think, inquire, and wonder about the world around them. It offers hands-on exhibits and programming to spark imagination in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.

WANT TO GO? $7. 203-364-4009. everwondermuseum.org.

ACCREDITED PROGRAM National Association for the Education of Young Children

Come join us to learn more about our preschool programs for ages 2-5, to meet our experienced and dedicated teachers and discover what an NAEYC program means for your child.

(203)838-4266 | fivemilerivernurseryschool.com | director@fmrns.com

Treasures of the Peabody: 150 Years of Exploration and Discovery

WHEN: Through Jan. 8, 2017: 12-5pm WHERE: Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, 170 Whitney Ave., New Haven AGES: All WHAT: Learn the Peabody’s story, beginning with the founding of Yale in 1701 and the early evolution of science in America, to the expeditions and cutting-edge research that curators are leading today.

WANT TO GO? $6-$13. 203-432-5050. peabody.yale.edu.

Heart and Seoul: Growing Up in Korea

WHEN: Through Jan. 8, 2017: daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The exhibit uses traditional folktales as well as current day personal stories told by Korean children to engage visitors.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion’s Holiday Exhibit

WHEN: Through Jan. 8, 2017: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-4pm WHERE: Lockwood-Mathews Mansion, 295 West Ave., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: This exhibit will trace the development of the holiday traditions during the Victorian era in America.

WANT TO GO? $10; $6 children ages 8-18. 203-838-9799. lockwoodmathewsmansion.com.

21st 8

New Drumming Program for ages 4 to 8 years old!

Coming up next month: JAN. 7: Superhero Mobiles at Stamford Museum & Nature Center, Stamford JAN. 22: Biscuit at the Westport Country Playhouse, Westport JAN. 29: Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom with Peter Gros at The Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield Fairf ieldParent 37

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

››

Research by Jonathan Perry and Kathryn Sheridan

Bring holiday cheer and family bonding from the farm to your home by cutting your own Christmas tree this winter. Head to your 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. is provided in wrapping and loading the tree onto your car.

Litchfield County

Busy Acres Tree Farm 548 Quassapaug Road, Woodbury 203-695-4785; busyacrestreefarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 24, weekdays, 12-3:30pm, and weekends, 9am-3:30pm. Saws and twine provided. Tree carts provided to help transport your tree. Handmade wreaths also available. Cash or checks only.

Southeast New York Westchester County

Everett’s Corner Tree Farm 136 Sherwood Road, Easton 203-268-2508 everettscorner.com Nov. 25 and Dec. 3-4 and 10-11: 9am-dusk.

Tools and tree transportation provided. Free baling and twine to secure your tree available.

Jones Family Farm 606 Walnut Tree Hill Road, Shelton 203-929-8425 jonesfamilyfarms.com Through Dec. 24, daily (except Thanksgiving Day), 9am-5:30pm. Arrive before 4pm if you plan on cutting your own tree with a provided saw. Twine and tree baling services available. Holiday decorations and traditional crafts and ornaments for sale.

Refreshments available. Leashed dogs welcome during Christmas time, but are not allowed in gift shops or winery.

Maple Row Farm 555 N. Park Ave., Easton 203-261-9577; mrfarm.com Nov. 27-Dec. 23, daily, 9am-4:30pm. Tree baling and assistance provided. Saws are provided or bring your own (no chainsaws 38

December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

allowed). Wreaths, roping, and tree stands available. Hayrides, crafts, refreshments, and gift store open on weekends. Pre-cut trees also available for sale.

Stuart’s Farm 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs 914-245-2784; stuartsfarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 24, Wednesday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. Handsaws and baling available.

Wreaths, garland, and roping for sale. Bakery is open with hot and cold cider, fruit pies, fresh apple cider doughnuts, jams, and jellies. Leashed dogs welcome.

Paproski’s Castle Hill Farm 25 Sugar Lane and 5 Hattertown Road, Newtown 203-426-5487 Nov. 28-Dec. 24, weekends, 9am-5pm, and weekdays, 2-5pm. Provides assistance in wrapping and tying your tree to your car. After, enjoy complementary hot cider and cookies by the farmhouse fire, or take a hike across the 5-acre farm. Also offers pre-cut trees and handmade wreaths.

Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights 914-245-5111; wilkensfarm.com Nov. 26 until they run out of trees, 10am4pm daily. Each family member gets a free cup of hot cider while you choose and cut your own tree. There is a farm market, bakery, and gift shop on-site with roping, wreaths, tree stands, and decorations for sale.

Hartford County

Hardwick Tree Farm 213 Wood St., Mahopac 845-528-5814 Nov. 25-Dec. 18, Saturdays and Sundays, and Black Friday. 9am-dusk. Saws and baling provided. Free hot cider and cookies.

Rose’s Berry Farm, LLC 295 Matson Hill Road, South Glastonbury 860-633-7467; 860-633-6001 rosesberryfarm.com Through Dec. 23; Friday-Sunday, 9am4pm. Christmas shop with decorations, frozen pies, homemade jams, and hot chocolate. Tree skirts, tree stands, and ornaments available for purchase. Assistance

Putnam County

Dutchess County

Abel’s Trees 435 N. Clove Road, Verbank

845-677-6395; abelstrees.com Nov. 25-Dec. 25, weekends and Black Friday, 9amsunset. Baling and handling assistance provided. Free hot chocolate and wagon rides to fields. Wreaths, tree stands, tree preservatives, and automatic tree-watering devices also available. All size trees available, including trees taller than 12 feet. Hot foods available for purchase. Cash and checks only. Saws available.

Nov. 25-Dec. 18, SaturdaySunday, 9:30am-4:30pm.

Handsaws and free baling available. Help available.

Fresh, handmade holiday wreaths are available for sale.

Free candy canes for kids and complimentary hot mulled cider. Hot chocolate for sale.

bilmarnurseriesinc.com Nov. 26-Dec. 24, MondayFriday, 12-4:30pm, and weekends, 9am-4:30pm. Hay wagon rides to and from the fields on weekends. Tools and baling provided. Cut-your-own trees only. Hot food available for purchase on weekends.

Fabulous Firs 664-702 Van Wagner Road, Poughkeepsie 845-590-3337

Hahn Farm 1697 Salt Point Turnpike

(Route 115), Salt Point 845-266-3680 hahnfarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 23, weekdays, 12-4pm, and weekends, 9:30am-4pm. Pre-cut trees also available. Rides to and from the fields provided (free on weekends). Families receive a complimentary cup of hot chocolate with tree purchase (weekends only).

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

Battenfeld Christmas Tree Farm 856 Route 199, Red Hook 845-758-8018 christmastreefarm.us Nov. 25-Dec. 18 (subject to change), daily, 8am-4pm.

Horse-drawn wagon rides.

Handmade decorated wreaths for sale. Farm map and discount coupon available on the website.

Bilmar Nurseries 26 Bilmar Blvd. and off of Traver Road, Pleasant Valley 845-635-3206 bilmarnurseriesinc.com Nov. 26-Dec. 24, weekends, 9am-5pm, and weekdays, 10am-5pm. Hay wagon rides to and from the fields on weekends. Tools and baling provided. Cut-your-own and pre-cut trees available. Hot food available for purchase on weekends.

BJ’s Christmas Tree Farm 14 Evergreen Path, Pleasant Valley 845-635-1587 bjschristmastrees.com Nov. 25-Dec. 20, weekends, 9am-4pm. Offers a variety of tree types, as well as handmade wreaths and decorations.

Complimentary hot chocolate and cider. Will bale and drill your tree, and carry and tie it to your car.

Evergreen Farm 407 N. Tower Hill Road, Millbrook 845-677-3785 christmastreefarm.biz Fairf ieldParent 39

Steve Turner

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum illustrates the splendor of the Gilded Age.

Travel Back in Time…

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16 historical locations in the New York metro area that are perfect for an educational day trip

L

ooking for fun day trips that will keep you and your kids entertained while learning during the fall and on weekends?

We’ve compiled a chronological list of 16 historic places in the New York metro area that offer plenty of fun while keeping the kids engaged.

Historic Richmond Town

441 Clarke Ave., Staten Island 718-351-1611 historicrichmondtown.org Hours: 1-5pm Wednesday-Sunday Guided Tours: Wednesday-Friday, 2:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 2pm and 3:30pm Admission: $8; $6 seniors and students ages 12-17; $5 children ages 4-11; free for children younger than 4; free every Friday, and for members and active duty military with ID Richmond Town was settled in the late 16th and early 17th centuries as a crossroads settlement among the scattered farms of Staten Island. Now a living history village, the site covers 50 acres and features more than 30 historic structures, including homes and commercial and civic buildings, as well as a historical museum.

All buildings are original and more than half of them remain in the same spot they were built. (One home is 350 years old!) At Decker Farm, the oldest continually operating farm in New York, take a self-guided tour and enjoy the organic, seasonal produce sold at the farm stand.

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By Karen Demeter

Queens County Farm Museum

73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park 718-347-3276 queensfarm.org Farmhouse tours: 11am-4pm Saturday-Sunday (call to confirm) Outdoor visiting: 10am-5pm daily, year-round Admission: FREE, except during public events The museum occupies the largest remaining tract of undisturbed farmland in the city (47 acres) and is the longest continuously farmed site in New York state. The site includes historic farm buildings, livestock, farm vehicles, and an orchard and herb garden. Organized group visits must pre-register and pay a fee.

Lefferts Historic House

Prospect Park, Brooklyn 718-789-2822 prospectpark.org Hours: Nov. 3-Jan. 1, 2017: Saturday-Sunday, 12-4pm Admission: $3 suggested donation This home is located in the park’s Children’s Corner, near the carousel and the Prospect Park Zoo. Families learn about life in colonial times through the homestead’s working gardens, historic artifacts and documents, period rooms, and exhibits. Visitors can try using traditional tools, churn butter, make candles, and play with old-fashioned toys.

Philipsburg Manor

381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow 914-366-6900 (914-631-3992 on weekends) hudsonvalley.org Hours: Wednesday-Sunday and holidays, admission by timed tours only: 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm. Also at 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm, and 3:30pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Admission: $12; $10 seniors; $6 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3 and members Take a guided tour of the 300-year-old manor house, barn, and gristmill to experience what life was like for Dutch farmers living in the 18th century. Visitors learn how to thresh wheat, see how the rushing waters of the nearby river worked the mill, and learn about Northern slaves who worked the farm during this period.

Take a docent-led tour of the Bush-Holley House, a National Historic Landmark.

Bush-Holley House

39 Strickland Road, Cos Cob, CT 203-869-6899; hstg.org Hours: March-December: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-4pm; JanuaryFebruary: Saturday-Sunday, 12-4pm; docent-led tours at 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm or by appointment.

Admission: $10; $8 students and seniors; free for children younger than 7 and members Prosperous merchants built this home in 1730; it was later used as a boarding house and gathering place for prominent American artists and arbiters. A National Historic Landmark, it is one of 18 museums participating in the Connecticut art trail.

The 1750 Ogden House & Gardens

1520 Bronson Road, Fairfield, CT 203-259-1598; fairfieldhistory.org Guided tours: June-September, Sundays 1-4pm and by appointment.

Admission: $5; $3 students ages 6-22 and seniors; free for children younger than 6 and members This mid-18th-century farmhouse provides a glimpse into the life of a middle-class colonial family. David Ogden built the house in 1750, and various members of the Ogden family lived there for the next 125 years. The Fairfield Museum and History Center, which operates the Ogden House, is located at 370 Beach Road (about a 10-minute drive) and is open 10am-4pm daily. continued on next page ››

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Fairf ieldParent 41

‹‹ continued from previous page

Old Bethpage Village Restoration

1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage 516-572-8400; nassaucountyny.gov Hours: 10am-4pm Wednesday-Sunday; last ticket sold at 3pm Admission: $10; $7 children ages 5-12, seniors, and volunteer firefighters; free for children younger than 5 This 209-acre recreated village allows visitors to experience a typical, rural Long Island farm village complete with homes, farms, and businesses. The site hosts old-time “base-ball” tournaments throughout the year.

Fort Montgomery State Historic Site

690 Route 9W, Fort Montgomery 845-446-2134; palisadesparksconservancy.org Hours: Mid-April through Oct. 31: 9am-5pm WednesdaySunday; November-March: by appointment Admission: FREE; $3 per person for group tours This scenic spot overlooking the Hudson River was the site of a revolutionary battle fought on Oct. 6, 1777. American Patriots, outnumbered 3-to-1, lost the battle to the British.

Visitors learn more about this military post at the site’s museum, which displays artifacts, weapons, and large-scale models of the fort and the attack as well as a 15-minute movie recreating the battle.

Van Cortlandt Manor

525 S. Riverside, Croton-on-Hudson 914-366-6900 (914-271-8981 on weekends) hudsonvalley.org Guided tours: July 1-Aug. 28: Friday-Sunday. Admission by timed tours only: 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, 3pm. Groups by reservation March-August and mid-November-December.

Admission: $12; $10 seniors; $6 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3 and members Visit the home of a prominent New York family that settled here after the American Revolution. In addition to seeing period furnishings, you can watch costumed guides demonstrate oldfashioned trades such as blacksmithing, open-hearth cooking, spinning, and other crafts of the period. Visit the Ferry House, built before 1750, to see what a rural tavern was like for travelers during the late 18th to early 19th centuries. The tour also addresses social issues such as religion and slave emancipation.

Built between 1804 and 1808, Boscobel is considered one of the finest examples of Federal-style architecture in New York.

Boscobel House & Gardens

The Dyckman Farmhouse is an extraordinary reminder of early Manhattan and an important part of its diverse Inwood neighborhood.

Dyckman Farmhouse

4881 Broadway (at 204th Street), Inwood 212-304-9422; dyckmanfarmhouse.org Hours: December-February, Friday and Saturday 11am-4pm, other times by appointment only; Thursday-Saturday, 11am-4pm; Sunday, 11am-3pm Admission: Museum: donation-based; Garden: free In the children’s book The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton, a home in the country watches over time as a city is built around and above her. The little pink farmhouse is eventually picked up and moved out into the country again. The Dyckman Farmhouse also witnessed a transition from farmland to city but amazingly survived the wrecking ball, becoming a museum in 1916.

Visitors can now take a self-guided tour of this Dutch Colonialstyle farmhouse and learn who lived there and how it survived when others houses of its time did not. Call if you have a group of six or more.

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1601 Route 9D, Garrison 845-265-3638; boscobel.org Hours: April 1-Oct. 31: Wednesday-Monday, 9:30am-5pm; Nov. 1-Dec. 31: Wednesday-Monday, 9:30am-4pm. Guided tours offered November-December, 10am-3pm, and AprilOctober, 10am-4pm Admission: $17; $14 seniors 62 and older; $8 children ages 6-14; free for children younger than 6 and members, $45 for a family of four.

This Federal-style home with scenic views of the Hudson River was conceived by States Morris Dyckman, a Loyalist who made his fortune working for British quartermasters during the Revolutionary War. The home was completed by his wife Elizabeth after Dyckman died in 1806. Boscobel was originally built 15 miles away in Montrose but, to avoid demolition, was taken apart and painstakingly put back together in its present location. Entrance to the house by guided tour only.

Walt Whitman Birthplace

246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-427-5240; waltwhitman.org Hours: Winter through June 15: 1-4pm Wednesday-Friday; 11am-4pm Saturday-Sunday. June 15-Labor Day: 11am-4pm

Karen M. Sharman

Monday-Friday; 11am-5pm Saturday-Sunday. Group tours by appointment (call two weeks in advance).

Admission: $6; $5 seniors, veterans, and groups; $4 students; free for children younger than 6 and members Legendary poet Walt Whitman was born in 1819 at this Long Island farmhouse, which is now the only New York State Historic Site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It contains many portraits of Whitman as well as his original letters, manuscripts, artifacts, and a rare recording of his voice. The house hosts poetry readings, lectures, concerts, and other special events throughout the year.

“It is a beautiful spot, capable of being made a little paradise,” Washington Irving once wrote of Sunnyside. He designed the house and grounds himself.

718-885-1461; bpmm.org Hours: Mansion: Wednesday and Saturday-Sunday, 12-4pm yearround. Guided tours at 12:15pm, 1:15pm, 2:15pm, and 3:15pm.

Admission: $5; $3 students and seniors; free for children younger than 6. Gardens and grounds open year-round 8:30am to dusk and admission is free.

Thomas Pell bought this land from Native Americans as part of a 9,000-acre tract. The estate was reduced to 200 acres and eventually bought by Robert Bartow in 1836. The Grecian-style home with Greek Revival interiors became a museum in 1946. It is the last surviving architecturally important house overlooking Long Island Sound, out of more than a dozen that once existed.

Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum

295 West Ave., Norwalk, CT 203-838-9799; lockwoodmathewsmansion.com Guided tours: April to early January, Wednesday-Sunday at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm Admission: $10; $8 seniors; $6 for students ages 8-18; free for children younger than 8 and members This Second Empire-style mansion with Victorian-era furnishings and interiors was once home to the Lockwood family and, several years later, the Mathews family. Now a National Historic Landmark, it has survived threats from bankruptcy, demolition, and I-95, and it stands today adjacent to the Stepping Stones Museum for Children.

Washington Irving’s Sunnyside

Richard Warren

3 W. Sunnyside Lane, Irvington 914-366-6900 (914-591-8763 on weekends); hudsonvalley.org Guided tours: May 1-Nov. 13: Wednesday-Sunday, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2pm, 2:30pm, 3pm, 3:30pm; weekends: every half hour, first tour starts at 10am, last tour starts 3:30pm. Admission by timed tour only. Group tours by reservation through December.

Admission: $12; $10 seniors; $6 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3 and members A costumed guide leads a tour through the home of the man who wrote The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle. Many of the furnishings in the house are original, making it one of the more authentic examples of 19th century life nearby.

During the summer at Old Westbury Gardens, kids can enjoy the great outdoors.

Old Westbury Gardens

Visitors are invited to tour the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum and admire its mid19th-century furnishings, or stroll around the grounds and the formal terraced garden behind the house.

Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum 895 Shore Road, Bronx

71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury 516-333-0048; oldwestburygardens.org Hours: Until Nov. 22: Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4pm; Westbury House open 11am-4pm; April 25-Oct. 31: 10am-5pm daily (except Tuesdays); house open 11am-4:30pm. Guided tours are given every half hour (based on volunteer availability), call for start times.

Admission: $12; $10 seniors older than 62 and students with vaild ID; $7 children ages 7-17; free for children younger than 7 and members.

This Gold Coast mansion, located on the North Shore of Long Island, was occupied by the Phipps family for more than 50 years. It sits on 200 acres of formal gardens and is now a cultural destination spot for family programs and events, summer pop concerts, the annual Scottish Games, and educator-led talks and tours.

Fairf ieldParent 43

Winter Break Activities Bounce! Trampoline Sports: Danbury

21 Prindle Lane, Danbury 203-942-2449 bouncedanbury.com info@bouncedanbury.com Bounce! Danbury combines the best of all the Bounce! facilities! Two trampoline bungee jumps, a huge main jump court with additional dodgeball courts, five foam pits, two Ninja-style Bounce! Xtreme obstacle courses, an enormous separate Bounce! Jr. Zone with its own mini slam dunk basketball hoop, a laser light extravaganza for Jump n Glow, multiple party rooms of every size with glow-in-the-dark themes, a parent lounge area with nine TV viewing options streamed right to your cellphone, a spectacular mezzanine observation deck with 40 charging stations, and an arcade with an array of challenging video games. Check website for special holiday break hours.

The Discovery Museum and Planetarium

4450 Park Ave., Bridgeport 203-372-3521 discoverymuseum.org Explore energy in Discovery Museum’s newest interactive exhibit, Energy Network, opening Dec. 6! Enjoy additional daily planetarium shows (including One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure for children ages 6 and younger) over the school holiday vacation. Come celebrate snowflakes Dec. 28-30 with fun Snow Science demonstrations and take-home activities. Ring in the new year on Jan. 2 with kids’ programs and activities, then join us on Monday, Jan. 16, for a special Martin Luther King Day celebration! Check our website for holiday hours and upcoming events.

Funfuzion at New Roc City

29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle, NY Party Central: 914-637-7575, option 1

funfuziononline.com Enjoy a continental breakfast with us and meet Santa and his elves on Dec. 17 from 9:30–11:30am! Take selfies with Santa and his elves while you boogie down the ChaCha Slide and limbo below the Limbo Stick.

We can also put together a unique party experience for your December birthday child and friends. We have Lazer Tag, bowling, miniature golf, and arcade fun throughout the holiday season.

Jump Off Indoor Trampoline Park & Fun Zone

280 Garfield Ave., Stratford 203-989-3357 jumpoffct.com jumpoffct@gmail.com Jump Off is the coolest new place for family fun and amazing parties with 13,000 square feet of connected, world-class trampolines in a 27,500-square-foot, brand-new facility!

Trampolines galore: Get ready for dodge ball, air dunk, jump-in foam pit or air bag, balance on our slack line, and gladiator on with our battle beam. Our Play Zone includes three floors of an indoor playground with slides, tubes, ball pits, bazookas, a waterbed, inflatables, and toddler area. Animal rides on wheels, Arcade Zone with prizes, and a Lazer Maze!

Music Together of Fairfield County

76 Walbin Court, Fairfield 203-256-1656 ctmusictogether.com Music Together of Fairfield County is offering special two-week holiday mini-sessions and special demo events! Try a Rhythm Kids class for children ages 3½-8, in which we sing, dance, and play djembe drums to rhythms from around the world! Or come to our mixed-age classes for children newborn to age 5! For more information, go to ctmusictogether.com.

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Rockin’ Jump

Rockin’ Jump: Mount Kisco 333 N. Bedford Road, Mount Kisco, NY 914-743-5730 mtk.rockinjump.com info@mtk.rockinjump.com Rockin’ Jump: Trumbull 25 Trefoil Drive, Trumbull 203-880-5577 trumbull.rockinjump.com trumbull-ct@rockinjump.com Ready to soar in open jump arenas, play trampoline dodgeball, do flips and somersaults, climb with friends, and do fitness challenges? Want a new alternative in the area for birthday parties and family gatherings, where quality food and private party rooms are guaranteed, and fun for the whole family? Rockin’ Jump is the place to be! From kids’ parties to corporate retreats, youth groups to family reunions, you can find everything you want. No arcades here—just fitness disguised as fun for all ages. Check location websites for special winter school break hours.

Smugglers’ Notch Resort

4323 Vermont Route 108 S., Jeffersonville, VT 888-393-9097 smuggs.com Find your family’s perfect winter vacation at Smugglers’ Notch Vermont. With 1,000 acres of mountain terrain, you’ll find something for everyone. Three inter-connected mountains offer terrain to meet all types of skiers and riders. Kids at Smugglers’, as well as adults, are treated to the best ski and snowboard programs in the East. With on-hill activities focused on fun, learning has never been so appealing, especially for the No. 1 Kid Friendly Resort in the Eastern U.S. and Canada as voted by the readers of SKI Magazine.

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Fairf ieldParent 45

Get as Good as You Give!

››

We all want to grant our kids’ every wish, especially during the holidays—but is showering them with presents really best? How to model the spirit of giving without spoiling your child, make generosity a part of your family’s routine, and bring smiles to their faces. By Katelin Walling

B

efore families sit down for Thanksgiving dinner, stores put out holiday decorations. With all the hype and commercialism of the extended season, it’s hard to not feel pressure to get your children the most extravagant gifts.

“One kid can’t have a better Christmas than the other one, so you keep upping the ante. The pressure is so much. I start getting a stomachache, like, in November,” said comedian Louis C.K., talking about buying gifts for his daughters in his appearance on the nowdefunct The Tonight Show with Jay Leno on NBC on Jan. 6, 2014.

“I actually do think that one Christmas with nothing would make [my kids] more generous, more cautious, and smarter people, so it would actually be good parenting to have one Christmas where [they] get nothing,” he said of not wanting to give in to the contagious gift-buying frenzy. “But I can’t do it. I can’t do what’s right for my kids.”

You don’t need to go to the extreme measure of refraining from giving your children gifts this holiday season to encourage them to be more grateful, more generous beings.

Understand how we got to ‘affluenza.’

Entitled children are not born, they’re made, according to Wednesday Martin, Ph.D., a social researcher with a background in anthropology and author of Primates of Park Avenue, who lives in New York City.

Our modern culture is a time of “ecological relief,” Dr. Martin says—meaning we’re not foraging for food, hunting prey, or primarily occupied with matters of survival. “One of the things that means is, that to a completely unprecedented extent, we can invest really heavily in each and every child we have versus the way it was in our evolutionary prehistory when humans had to balance care for their offspring with care for themselves,” Dr. Martin says. “They were always playing the numbers game—how much attention can I give this child without dying myself?”

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“Affluenza”—which “is characterized by a sense of entitlement, an inability to delay gratification, an exaggerated belief in the ability to control one’s life, and a diminished capacity for empathy and compassion,” according to Josh Glawe, LCSW, who provides individual, family, marital, and group therapy in Parsippany, NJ— also stems from the fact that we, as primates, give gifts because we live to make social connections, Dr. Martin says.

“We long to belong. We long to build connections and cement relationships, and gifts are one of the ways that we do that. By giving something to someone we say, ‘I value you. I like you. You mean something to me.’ But now, because we live in a state of ecological relief, sometimes we give really lavish gifts,” Dr. Martin says. “And we know that most people around the holiday, no matter what their financial situation, give to the outer extent that is possible for them.”

Counteract the ‘gimmes.’

Glawe says the most important step to guard against the escalating effects of entitlement is to recognize the problem and work toward a more balanced view of the role of money and material items to your child, as well as within the family as a whole. Once this has been determined, there are a few easy things you can do with your children to help them become more gracious.

Name your blessings. Beyond counting your blessings, naming them is a great way to reflect on the things you’re grateful for each day. “There are so many ways that you can do that,” says Andrea Reiser, a Westport-based happiness coach and co-author of Letters From Home: A Wake-Up Call for Success and Wealth.

Reiser suggests you write your blessings down once a week; go around the dinner table and have each family member mention a few things they’re grateful for. Or participate in the “100 Days of Happiness” (100happydays.com) challenge by capturing images

of things that make you happy or that you’re grateful for 100 days in a row—71 percent of people who tried have cited “lack of time” as the main reason they were unable to complete the challenge. Let’s instill in our kids that making time for happiness is a worthwhile priority!

Show gratitude every day. Be a grateful parent and tell your children why you’re grateful for them. “It models what gratitude is and it also helps them build self-esteem because they realize you love them for certain skills, qualities, and characteristics, and it makes them feel good to know they’re appreciated,” Reiser says.

Parents should also model gratitude by saying “thank you” sincerely and often in your everyday life. “Yes, the grocery store cashier is paid to ring up your order, but say ‘thank you’ to that person just for the interaction that you’ve had with them,” Reiser suggests.

Help children express gratitude. Unfortunately, thank-you notes have largely disappeared from our culture, Reiser says.

“There are so many ways you can make it easier for kids to send thank-you notes, even if it’s a thank-you email, to make the child acknowledge that they received something from someone else and show that they appreciate it,” she adds.

Create a form note for younger kids on which they fill in the blanks for who gave them the gift, what they received, and sign it or maybe draw a picture. Take older kids shopping for their own stationery to send handwritten notes. And remember: A phone call to the giver is a simple way to say thank you, especially in this age of texts.

“I think that gratitude is such a great solution because it kind of counteracts the ‘gimmes’,” Reiser adds. “Really instilling gratitude in kids and living it yourself as a model goes so far to change the entitlement culture.”

Indulge your gift-giving instincts.

So, how can you indulge in some of your gift-giving instincts without spoiling your kids?

Give the gift of time. We live in a very fast-paced, hyped-up culture, so we give lavish gifts because it’s the most efficient way to say “I love you,” Dr. Martin says. But the most extravagant, most precious gift you can give your child? Your time.

Dr. Martin suggests you give children gift certificates, such as 1 hour of arts-and-crafts with Mommy or the opportunity to help Daddy make dinner. Or give a board game, which is something that will facilitate everyone spending time together, and then commit to a family game night once a week.

“As your child is opening a gift, talk about how using it will allow you to spend time together,” Dr. Martin says. “What you’re modeling is that a gift is a route to a social and personal connection.”

Spend money doing rather than having. “I’m huge into giving kids experiences rather than material stuff—spending time instead of spending money, and also asking relatives to do the same,” Reiser says. “It’s so much more meaningful and lasting to have experiences together.”

A 2014 study by Amit Kumar, Matthew A. Killingsworth, and Thomas Gilovich titled “Waiting for Merlot” found that experiential purchases (spending money on doing) tends to provide longer-lasting happiness than material purchases (spending money on having). So you’ll be happier buying experiences for you and your child, and your child will be happier because you’ll be spending time with him.

Set realistic expectations. The only way to prevent your children from feeling extreme disappointment when they don’t get everything they want is to talk about expectations beforehand. “I grew up celebrating Hanukkah, and we did not get a gift every night for the eight days of Hanukkah, but we knew that up front,” Reiser says.

“Maybe the first and fourth and eighth nights my mom would give us a gift. We didn’t know exactly what nights to expect them, but we knew we weren’t getting something every night, and it just made it more realistic.”

Once you’ve set expectations with your child, share with relatives and ask them to follow suit with you. Reiser adds that there may be some initial disappointment, but you have to remind the child that you discussed expectations beforehand and to appreciate the things they were given.

While it may not be easy during the holidays, Reiser suggests asking your child to participate in purchasing the newest gadget or fashion accessory they want. “Then, they have a little more investment in it, and it’s more rewarding when they finally get to that point where they’ve saved up enough to be able to buy it,” she says.

Keep the charitable feeling year-round.

“In general, I don’t believe that kids act selfishly because they genuinely don’t care about others. It’s more that they aren’t really sure how to help others and give back because they aren’t being taught,” says Todd Patkin, author of Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine In. “Ultimately, raising children who understand the value of giving back—and whose lives reflect that knowledge—is one of the most philanthropically-minded things parents can do.”

The best way to teach your children is to set an example for them.

Whether it’s donating time, money, or items to an organization, or simply a random act of kindness such as helping an older person with their groceries or taking homemade soup to a sick friend, showing your kids that you take a little time every day to be kind to someone is “going to go just as far as going to a soup kitchen but in a different way that’s profound,” Dr. Martin says.

And if you see something happening in a charitable way, Resier says you should point it out to your children so they have real life experiences within their own community.

After showing your children a few ways you give back, get them involved in giving back, too—just keep them interested. Use your kids’ interests to focus on what they might want to do, whether it’s supporting a charitable foundation monetarily or volunteering, Reiser suggests. If your child likes animals, volunteer at the local humane society; if she loves reading, take her to buy and donate books to a literacy foundation.

One way Reiser kept her four sons interested in donating money when they were young was to connect the act to baseball. Each child picked a baseball statistic to follow for the family’s favorite team, the Boston Red Sox. “One of them would pledge one dollar each time Big Papi (David Ortiz) hit a home run. Another might give 50 cents for each strikeout during the month of August. It was a fun way to incorporate an interest of theirs and keep them engaged on how much money we were donating,” Reiser says.

Again, setting expectations is key. “At the end of the day, kids are still kids. You can’t expect them to always want to donate their toys,” Patkin says. “Be conscious of your children’s ages and capabilities, and (without being too quick to exclude them from an activity or event that might not be ‘fun’ from start to finish) keep in mind that your budding philanthropists are still kids.”

Fairf ieldParent 47

Flu Shot 101

›› Four frequently asked questions. By Aimée Kahn, M.D., MPH

Can I get the flu from the flu shot?

This is a common misconception regarding the influenza vaccine, so let’s clear the air. The influenza vaccine that’s given by an injection (shot) does not contain any living virus. To make the vaccine, the virus is heated and inactivated prior to testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This means the virus cannot infect you and cause you to have the flu infection.

What can happen, though, is one person may have an illness brewing around the same time as getting the vaccine. Then, that person feels worse after the flu shot and assumes it is the flu. But again, this is not possible because the flu shot does not have a live virus—so you are safe. The protection from the vaccine takes approximately two weeks to start working. If you’re exposed to the flu virus within two weeks of receiving the vaccine, you are not yet fully protected and you could get sick. The most common side effects of getting the vaccine are soreness at the site of injection, headache, and muscle ache—which only last one to two days.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

The influenza vaccine is recommended for all people ages 6 months and older. The best way to protect newborns younger than 6 months from the flu is for caregivers to get vaccinated. Also, all pregnant mothers are at a higher risk of getting sicker from the flu than others and are recommended to get the influenza vaccine during pregnancy. This not only offers protection from the flu for the mother, but for the newborn as well for several months after birth. If you have a serious anaphylactic allergy to eggs, talk to your doctor before getting the influenza vaccine.

I hate needles; is there another way to get the vaccine?

The influenza vaccine is available in two forms: an injection and nasal spray. The nasal spray does contain a live vaccine;

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however, the virus is weakened and then tested by the FDA. Unfortunately, during the 2016-2017 flu season, the nasal spray is not recommended as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

But do I really need to get the flu vaccine?

There are many benefits to getting the influenza vaccine. The flu vaccine can prevent you from getting sick from the flu.

Vaccination also reduces the chances of flu-related hospitalizations from complications of the infection. As mentioned, vaccination during pregnancy protects the mother and newborn, which is especially important as babies’ immune systems are not as strong as those who are older and can have much worse outcomes with infection. It is impossible for the vaccine to cover every single strain of the influenza virus. If you’re infected but have gotten the flu shot, your symptoms will be milder and not as severe as if you are unvaccinated. Getting the vaccine reduces the chances that you will get the flu.

Catching the flu can cause a very serious illness that can result in hospitalization and even death. Every year, nearly 100 children die in the U.S. from complications of the flu. Young children and those older than 65 are more likely to have worse symptoms from the infection. Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headaches, nasal congestion, and feeling tired. Children are more likely to also have vomiting and diarrhea, compared to older age groups. You’re most likely to spread the infection one day before symptoms start and up to a week or more after. If you’re feeling these symptoms, believe your child is, or need to get the flu shot, see your primary care doctor or pediatrician.

Aimée Kahn, M.D., MPH, is board-certified and specializes in pediatrics.

Dr. Kahn is seeing patients in Crystal Run Healthcare’s West Nyack, NY, office.

Meet the Health Care

PROFESSIONAL To be in this section, call 914-379-0200 or email nympads@davlermedia.com

Andrew J. Parker, M.D. Parker Ear, Nose and Throat 148 East Ave., Suite 2-I, Norwalk 203-866-8121 611 Post Road E., Westport 49 Locust Ave., Suite 104, New Canaan parkerent.com

Dr. Parker’s expertise and extensive training in pediatric ENT is your assurance that he is the right doctor to help you make important decisions about your child’s ears, tonsils, and adenoids. He and his friendly, professional staff, are ready to help care for your child at their three convenient offices in Norwalk, Westport, and New Canaan. Please call the office for an appointment or go online at parkerent.com. When you’re at the office, please pick up a complimentary copy of “What Every Parent Should Know About Tonsils, Adenoids and Ear Tubes.”

Sara Ysaac-Garcia, D.M.D. Board-certified pediatric dentist 999 Silver Lane, Trumbull 203-590-1588 56 Garden St., 2nd floor, Seymour 203-590-1578; ilovemypediatricdentist.com

After earning her doctor of dental medicine degree, Dr. Sara completed a postgraduate residency at Sacred Heart Hospital in Allentown, PA. She then practiced dentistry in community health centers, and was a clinical instructor at the University of Connecticut Health Center Advanced Education in General Dentistry.

Dr. Sara received her postgraduate certificate in pediatric dentistry from the University of Connecticut Health Center, and is now a diplomat of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Most of all, she cherishes the relationships she’s formed with her pediatric patients.

Pediatric Dentistry @ Westport Dental Associates 22 Imperial Ave., Westport 203 635-7070 pediatricdentistryofwestport.com drahn@westportdental.com

Dr. Ahn graduated from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and completed her pediatric specialty training at Columbia University Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital. As a board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Ahn’s goal is to provide exceptional and professional dental care in a fun, friendly environment. She believes that a lifetime of healthy, bright smiles starts at an early age and encourages parents to start their children’s dental care at the age of 1. She is excited to become a part of the Westport community and is looking forward to meeting your children’s dental needs.

Dental Care Kids 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4426 dentalcarekids.com

At Dental Care Kids, we are board-certified pediatric and orthodontic dentists specializing in children’s dental care, including sedation for children who are fearful or have special needs. One step inside the office, and you will know we are all about kids. We combine state-of-the-art, low-dose digital X-rays and technology with an office décor one parent called “Dental Disneyland,” to create a fun learning experience that will help your children on the way to a lifetime of better dental health.

Dr. Maria Karayiannis, D.M.D. MY SMILE Orthodontics 865 River Road, Suite 307, Shelton 72 Park St., Suite 97, New Canaan 731 Main St., Unit 104, Monroe 203-538-5014; mysmilect.com

Dr. Karayiannis graduated from McGill University where she received her B.S. in physiology, as well as her D.M.D. Dr. Karayiannis moved to Long Island to further her dental education at Stony Brook University where she received her A.E.G.D., and her postgraduate certificate in orthodontics. A free consultation will give you the opportunity to learn more about orthodontics and Invisalign®. State-of-the-art equipment, including the iTero® scanner for digital impressions, keep patients more comfortable while delivering precise imagery quick! Children and adults welcome. Trusted and experienced—you will love your smile.

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December 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

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Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

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