Fairfield Parent November 2016 by City Guide NY

Fairf ieldParent NOVEMBER 2016

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

FAIRFIELDPARENT.COM

An Ounce of Prevention Tips for keeping your kids healthy

Toddlers & 911

Teaching kids to handle emergencies

t n e

r R a lP G FO Y

Decision 2016

The election comes to local classrooms

ia IN THE P c pe NN EN U

S PLA H OW W R G

WHERE TO GO ICE-SKATING

•

THANKSGIVING SIDE DISHES

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Contents

November 2016 ›› Features

14 The Voters of Tomorrow How local teachers are using the election to engage students and raise civic awareness

16 Better Than an Apple a Day Tips to help kids aviod common health problems, and how to treat them when it fails 22 A New Spin on Thanksgiving Favorites Three variations on traditional side dishes to amp up our favorite fall feast 42 All Grown Up What to consider when your child with special needs turns 21—and is no longer a child 44 Taking a Child with Autism to the Movies Five tips from a mom who’s been there

46 Planning for the Worst Teaching toddlers and preschoolers how to handle emergencies

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 Quotables 10 Voices: When Awkward Becomes Unsafe 13 NYMP Q&A: Marie Kondo talks about the art of organizing

Fun & Activities

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

12 Media Matters: Apps for Learning & Fun 12 DIY Corner: Hot Glue Magic Wand 24 Outing: Morris-Jumel Mansion 27 Family Activities Calendar 40 Where-To Guide: Ice-Skating

Directories

20 45 48 49 49 50

Health & Wellness Directory Special Needs Directory Meet the Health Care Professional Open Houses Party Planner Advertisers’ Index

ON THE COVER ›› 14 Decision 2016 16 An Ounce of Prevention 22 Thanksgiving Side Dishes facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

40 Where to Go Ice-Skating 42 Planning for When They Grow Up

46 Toddlers & 911

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

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NOVEMBER 2016 • Vol.9 • No.2

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

EDITOR’S NOTE

DEPUTY EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling

Planning for Whatever Comes

e had a fire in our home last year, small but terrifying. A crackling noise woke my wife and me early one morning, and it took only a groggy second to notice flames leaping up just beyond the foot of our bed, sparked by an old extension cord. While my wife hustled the kids outside, I doused the fire before the firefighters even arrived. Afterward, we talked to our children about what to do in case of another fire, especially if a grown-up can’t get to them. I was reminded of this scary episode while editing this month’s feature about teaching toddlers to handle emergencies (p. 46)—and learned that we didn’t go far enough in training our children to handle such situations. There is more we can do to prepare them for a moment we hope will never come, and I hope all of you will do the same. When it comes to avoiding dangerous situations, we parents are always on guard. But illness—short-term and long-term, serious and less so—seems to lurk everywhere. To help, we’ve put together a helpful guide to preventing common childhood health problems, from cold and flu to diabetes and depression (p. 16). And since illness will sometimes come despite our best efforts, we offer our seasonal directory of health care professionals (p. 20). As parents, we all have a certain vision for how our kids’ lives will progress. For parents of children with severe special needs, however, these milestones are not always possible, and the vision of their children’s future may be very different. As their children approach adulthood, there are many unique issues parents of kids with special needs face. To help them, Samantha Neudorf speaks with experts about how parents should prepare for the future (p. 42). At Thanksgiving time, we can all take a moment to count the blessings we have in life, no matter what challenges we face. It’s also a time when many of us focus on helping others through community service. If your kids—or your whole family—do volunteer work, we want to hear about it! We’re launching the NYMetroParents Caring Kids Awards to recognize those who are helping to make the world a better place. See below for details. Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving, filled with blessings and peace. Michael Kress Editorial Director

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

ADVERTISING SALES Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 Jeunesse Jackson, Linda Pierce Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Ellen Klein Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Randi Shulman, Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Ellen Klein, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Fairfield Parent 914-397-0200 Judy Samuels, Randi Shulman Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager, Dani Pollack Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Lisa Herlihy, Karen Shapiro To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Ray C. Guédez, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro TRAFFIC MANAGER: Alexis Brower ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan

PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jiyon Son DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth

ACCOUNTING

The NYMetroParents

Caring Kids AWARDS

So many children and teenagers dedicate time to helping in our communities, and plenty of families do volunteer work together. If this describes your kids or your family, enter The NYMetroParents Caring Kids Awards, and be eligible to win a $500 gift card!

Here’s how it works: • Go to nymetroparents.com/caring-kids between Nov. 1 and Nov. 30. • 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. 6

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

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UOTABLES My daughter, a quintessential all-American girl, loves to sing, dance, and perform. She has indulged in ballet, gymnastics, drama, musical theater, piano lessons—and she’s only 6 years old. I tell her she can do anything she can imagine and I want to make sure she knows it and gets to try. —NYC mom Galina Nemirovsky in a post entitled “’Living Vicariously Through My Children’ Club” on her blog heartseverywhere.com

in an instagram Raise your kids to reach new heights...Literally and figuratively. #ApplePicking #Fall #Autumn #HoodieSeason #DamianJai #Dadlife #dedicateddads #idad #toddlerproblems #Citydads #LifeofDad (Posted by @itzmvp, aka Mario Coronado, a dad in Valley Stream, NY)

THE BLESSING OF SIBLINGS

in an instagram Another day, another Instagram wall. Love spotting these colorful murals all over town. #nyc #streetart #instanyc #citystreets #instagramwall #underthesea #instaart #exploreyourcity #chelsea #mural

“Having a sibling is a gift, which should be savored forever.” —Roslyn Haber, Ed.D., and Marlyn Press, Ed.D., in an article on nymetroparents.com entitled “How to Promote Positive Sibling Relationships.” Read more at nymetroparents.com/siblings

(Posted by @globetrottingmommy, aka Lyla Gleason, a Manhattan mom who blogs at globetrottingmommy.com)

“Listen to your body, and especially to that little voice deep inside. I promise there are no guidebooks that will lead you into this journey of parenting feeling fully equipped, but if you listen to that voice you will always be led in the right direction for you.” —Holly Schumacher in a post entitled “My Best Parenting Advice: Go Easy On Yourself “on the website scarymommy.com

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: MAKE IT A MEANINGFUL THANKSGIVING: Find new traditions to try at nymetroparents.com/thanks NURTURE GRATITUDE: How to teach your kids to be thankful (nymetroparents.com/thankful) MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Find places to volunteer this Thanksgiving (nymetroparents.com/volunteer) NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM: Find tips for applying to NYC high schools at nymetroparents.com/high-school

Is your child struggling in school? We can help. Winston Preparatory School

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The Winston Preparatory School does not discriminate against applicants and students on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin.

LEGO Extravaganza! ®

3 DAYS ONLY! Dec 2 – 4 • CT Convention Center

First time back in Connecticut since 2013! Don’t miss over 3 acres of LEGO® family fun! The extremely popular LEGO KidsFest offers LEGO lovers an exciting, interactive experience — packed with activities and creative fun for the entire family! LEG O

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Visit www.LEGOkidsfest.com for tickets and more information! LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick & Knob configurations and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. LEGO KidsFest is produced by BuzzEngine. ©2016

Fairf ieldParent

VOICES When Awkward Becomes Unsafe ›› Our kids interact regularly with people who are different and might make them uncomfortable. Sometimes, though, ‘uncomfortable’ becomes dangerous. By Ann Lapin

don’t know if it was a parenting fail or not but it certainly didn’t feel good—not for me, and not for her. Our middle child had an after-school function with three other schools. Gavri, our eldest, had attended the same function two years before and joined us, curious to see if she’d recognize any alumni from her year. Sure enough, close to the end of the evening, I spotted Gavri sitting on a windowsill with a teenager from one of the other schools. I snapped a picture of the two girls in long skirts, one with fair skin and a sweater modestly covering her shoulders, one with dark skin and a hijab. I planned to caption it, “Stolen Moments,” along with some witty hashtag, no doubt. I recognized the young woman from earlier in the evening: She had approached me when the schools—two Jewish and two Muslim—took time to recite their respective afternoon prayers. I suspected from her overly affectionate behavior that she might have some social delays. But Gavri was smiling and nodding her head as the girl talked to her. My children spend a lot of time with people who are “different.” Our family hosts a free meal at our synagogue every week. Every week, my children interact with folks who want a free meal and folks who need a free meal. My husband serves as rabbi for a local retirement residence, and we visit their Shabbat (Sabbath) table at least monthly. My kids help set the table and serve the residents. My children are used to feeling uncomfortable. They are sometimes annoyed that this is how we have chosen to live our lives—surrounded by people who are “different”—as well as the fact that we expect them to actively engage with all of these people. “Arrrrgh! But I’m BORED! I don’t WANT to!” they might argue. “I don’t care,” I have responded. I have definitely told my children that I don’t care about their feelings in situations like these. Big mistake. At one point during the after-school function, I looked up and the girl had her arm around Gavri. But what had at first looked like two teenage girls sharing personal space and innocent secrets soon looked more like the other girl dragging my daughter from one person to the other. I finally realized Gavri had a combined look of “I’m so flattered she likes me!” and “OK, this dragging is a little awkward and uncomfortable—OMG, when will she STOP?!” I had ignored any inclination I had that my daughter was unsafe

because they were such a vision of harmony—a picture of peace and unity and the innocence of youth. But there was something about the way Gavri was pressing her lips into a smile as she was dragged from person to person. There was something about the way she seemed to plead with me with her eyes. I knew something was wrong even if I didn’t know what it was. So I approached them. “Do you need a break?” I asked Gavri. She didn’t quite answer. So I asked in Hebrew, a language we both speak but I knew the other child would not understand, “Do you need help?” She replied. “Maybe...kinda...yeah...” I ended up having to remove the girl’s arm from around Gavri’s shoulders. When she walked away, Gavri started crying. She hadn’t really believed that anything bad would happen, but felt scared nonetheless. The girl had actually whispered threatening comments in her ear, but Gavri could tell the girl had delays and didn’t want to hurt her feelings by asking for help “I realized afterward I should have asked you for help in Hebrew,” she said the next day. I pointed out that because she is regularly pushed outside her comfort zone, spending time with people who are different than she is, she is used to suppressing expressions of discomfort. But this crossed a line. “There doesn’t have to be a ‘should have,’” I told her. “Now you know, going forward, sometimes your feelings have to be more important than someone else’s. It wasn’t so nice for me to speak to you in Hebrew in front of someone else (who wouldn’t understand), was it?” Gavri nodded. “It’s not my job to be nice. It’s my job to be your mommy.” I know it’s the exposure Gavri has to people who make her feel uncomfortable and the fact that she placed greater emphasis on the other girl’s feelings than her own that caused Gavri to not ask for help outright or even to really advocate for herself. It really is important to us that our children learn to tolerate a little discomfort. I’m hoping, going forward, our children will feel confident and understand the distinction between “uncomfortable” and “unsafe.” I’ve also made an effort to begin reminding my children that everybody’s feelings count—including theirs.

Ann Lapin and her family live in Bronx, NY. They have been an interim boarding care family for more than four years. Ann owns a Mary Kay business and teaches classes at Fit Figure Boot Camp in the northwest Bronx. Follow her at facebook.com/annephrat and on Twitter @ann4marykay.

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

Pediatric Dentistry

@ Westport Dental Associates Westport Dental Associates is thrilled to announce that Hannah Ahn, DDS will be expanding our practice as our board certified pediatric dentist. Serving Westport and surrounding towns since 1963 for all your family's dental needs! Stanley P. Freeman, DDS, Brian S. Duchan, DMD, Adam J. Freeman, DDS, Alison Kudish, DMD

www.pediatricdentistryofwestport.com • 203-635-7070 • 329 Riverside Ave, Westport Fairf ieldParent 11

Puffin Rock Music (iPhone, iPod Touch,

Media Matters: APPS

Recommended Age: 3+ H H HH This

iPad, Chromebook)

gentle music-maker won’t overwh

elm the senses.

Apps for Fun & Learning

Homer—#1 Learn to Read Progra m: Educational Games, Stories and Songs (iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad) Recommended Age: 4+ H H H H H This beautifu l app promotes skills and a love

Isoland (iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad) HHHH An artis Recommended Age: 9+

of reading.

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enture

Mimo: Learn How To Code Throug h Interactive Tutorials and Quizzes! (iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad) Recommended Age: 12+ HHHH Mini-lesson s build big coding know-how for

tweens to adults.

In Theaters Nov. 18: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Parents need to know that Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is based on J.K. Rowling’s original story about Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), the author of a Hogwarts textbook that describes various beasts and dragons. The movie follows Newt’s adventures in New York’s secret community of witches and wizards 70 years before Harry Potter first arrived at Hogwarts. As in the Harry Potter movie saga, there may be some action and violence to watch out for as Newt searches for his misplaced magical creatures in the No-Maj (American for “Muggle”) world.

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

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

DIY CORNER IMAGINARY PLAY

Hot Glue Magic Wand

Constructed from everyday materials, this magic wand is both customizable and quick to assemble, making this a project perfect for mass production and outfitting a classroom full of wizards. Supplies 1 sheet of copy paper Clear tape or masking tape 1 unsharpened wooden pencil 1 marble or similar small trinket Craft paint (brown suggested)

Tools Hot glue gun Pliers (optional) Paintbrush

Directions 1. On a flat surface, slowly roll a sheet of copy paper (or an old wizard wanted poster) into a tight paper cone. When finished, one end should come to a point, while the other end should have a ¼to ½-inch opening in it. Once it’s tightly rolled, use clear tape or masking tape along the side of the cone to fasten it in place. The finished cone will be roughly 10-13 inches long. 2. Slide an unsharpened wooden pencil into the open end of the paper cone, with the eraser end facing out. Wedge the pencil into the tip of the cone until the combined assembly is 11-15 inches long. Secure the pencil by adding some hot glue to the open end of the paper cone, around the wedged pencil. Additional hot glue can be used to strengthen the wand tip as well.

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

3. With your fingers, dislodge the pencil’s eraser from the metal band that holds it in place. Avoid bending the metal band. Add hot glue to the inside of the empty metal band, and then attach a small marble or a similar small trinket. Add more hot glue around the bottom of the attached item for increased strength. When dry, the attached item will serve as the wellspring of your wand’s mystical powers—and the ideal base for your wand’s finger grip! 4. With the glue gun, add front and back grip details 3-4 inches apart. As the glue dries, increase the thickness of the new grip details by adding additional layers of glue. With more glue, create custom textures around the grip area of the wand shaft. When the hot glue has dried, use craft paint to add some color. Excerpted from John Austin’s Labcraft Wizards, currently in stores. © 2016 by John Austin. Used with permission from Chicago Review Press. All rights reserved.

NYMP Q&A

Tidying Up With Kids ›› By Bethany Braun

Marie Kondo is an organizing guru, founder of the KonMari method, and author of the New York Times best-sellers The Life‑Changing Magic of Tidying Up and Spark Joy. What are your tips for parents to stay organized with kids? The first thing parents should teach their child is not how to organize toys, but how to fold clothes correctly. Folding clothes is equivalent to taking care of what you wear daily, and by habituating your children to fold clothes, they naturally begin to learn the KonMari way of organizing—to value the things that are important to you. Do you find that there is value for children in being raised in an organized home? Being organized means knowing what is important to you, and also knowing what it means to value what is important to you. Children with these skills have the power to make decisions and accomplish things under their own criteria when they face many situations as they grow up. Any tips for negotiating with a child who might not want to give up or let go of certain items? If the item is something valuable to the child, there is absolutely no need to let go of it. Parents should not decide whether the item is necessary or not. What is important is how the child feels about it, and whether the child wants to keep and take care of the item. Can you recommend any organizational tips that children can practice? Like I said before, to teach children how to fold clothes first. Other than that, it is basically the same with adults—to keep only what you want to keep and value, to designate a “home” (a specific spot to keep things) for each item that you own, and to put the items back to their “homes” every day. How do you balance children’s creativity, which can also be messy, with an organized home? There are two points. First, designate a play area for the child. Teach the child where the play area is, and whatever goes out of the area, put it back every time. The second point is to put each item back to its “home” every day. It depends on the age of the child, but if they are still little, parents should put the item back in its “home.” If they are big enough to think for themselves, parents should teach them to put the things that they value back to their “home” every day.

DANIEL TIGER © 2016 The Fred Rogers Company; ELMO™ © 2016 Sesame Workshop; TM FRED FLINTSTONE & © 2016 Hanna-Barbera; MR. POTATO HEAD © 2016 Hasbro; OCTONAUTS™ Meomi Design Inc. Copyright © 2016 Vampire Squid Productions Ltd, a member of the Silvergate Media group of companies. All rights reserved; PADDINGTON BEAR ™ © 2016 Paddington & Co. Ltd.

Fairf ieldParent 13

The Voters of Tomorrow

››

How local teachers are using the election and its aftermath to engage students and raise civic awareness. By Melissa Kagan

very four years, educators use the presidential election to impart valuable lessons to students about the electoral process, democracy, government, and the responsibilities of citizenship. While many teachers avoid discussing matters of personal opinion, they are finding creative ways to use the campaign as fodder for especially impactful lessons and classroom activities. Teachers across the region have implemented lesson plans and programs for students of all ages, and many have ambitious plans for the weeks leading up to Election Day and beyond, as they dissect and discuss the results. Because the 2016 election has been especially contentious, Jen Hickey, a sixth grade Individuals and Societies (formerly known as social studies) teacher at Dobbs Ferry Middle School in Dobbs Ferry, NY, is using this opportunity to teach her students about respect and how it’s possible to get a point across without using inflammatory language. “This will prepare them for adulthood,” she says. “In order to be taken seriously, it’s important to sound educated while discussing topics such as the election.” Hickey oversees a lesson in which students work in small groups and read excerpts from the candidate’s websites. They focus on five issues the students have identified as being important to them. However, the excerpts are labeled 14

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

as Candidate A and Candidate B, instead of identifying the candidate with whom they are associated. “After reading all of the text excerpts, students decide which candidate their views align better with and vote for that candidate,” Hickey says. “After all of the classes have voted, at the end of the day, we announce who was Candidate A and who was Candidate B. In our next class, we talk about their vote and would it have been any different if they knew which candidate was A and B. It’s a great opportunity for students to have conversations with each other and also their families about how they voted on certain issues.”

Debating the Issues

Students at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Hall Regional School in Bellmore, NY, are required to watch the presidential debates and engage in discussions about the campaign during time set aside for current events every Friday. “I want my students to know where each candidate stands on key issues so they can see how their opinions impact our country’s economy,” says Laura Sena, a middle school social studies teacher at the school. The seniors in Richard Salerno’s Advanced Placement Government class at Iona Preparatory School in New Rochelle, NY, are also

encouraged to engage in debate. “I partner up with our speechand-debate coach Charles Sloat, using his debate methodology on our shared project,” Salerno says. “We coordinate topics to be debated by my students on our blog. This year our first two topics were fashioned to discuss the 2016 presidential election.” The first topic for debate was whether social media coverage of the presidential race this year will do more to influence the outcome of the election than traditional news outlets. The second topic focused on whether contempt for the candidates has made many Americans feel disenfranchised—and whether that will lead to a particularly low voter turnout.

Voter Registration

Speaking of turnout, eighth grade students at Pelham Middle School in Pelham, NY, are focusing heavily on voter registration and how to get people to the polls. The students have been tasked with creating public service announcements to encourage voting, and discussions and lessons have emphasized citizens’ responsibilities. “In addition to the PSAs and the analysis of last year’s voter turnout, we are also asking students to interview relatives about their voting experiences,” says Maria Thompson, director of humanities at the Pelham Public Schools. “We want to find out what they remember most about their first time voting and their last time voting.” Some schools took their election lessons outside of the classroom. Five Oceanside High School students were randomly selected by their social studies teacher, Laura Trongard, to attend a day-long series of election-related events at Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY. Their day culminated with attending the first debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, which took place on campus. Members of the Massapequa, NY, mock trial team also spent the day on Hofstra’s campus, taking part in various media events. They were involved in panel discussions led by political correspondents, witnessed historical reenactments of the 1872 and 1972 debates, learned about the role social media is playing in this election, saw a video art display on the issues at stake, and participated in a mock vote. Their day concluded by participating in a debate party, during which they were able to watch a live feed of the debate in an auditorium on campus with students from other area high schools.

Mock Elections

Pelham students will participate in a mock online election, which will occur just prior to Election Day, with the results posted online as well. Mock elections like this are particularly successful at energizing young people to take an interest in voting, teachers say. “The mock election gives students the chance to understand how the election system works,” Hickey says. “My hope is that when the students become old enough to vote, they will remember what they learned here and take the time to study the issues before they vote in a real election.” The mock election at Dobbs Ferry Middle School will require students in sixth through eighth grades to “sign in” at a polling site and cast their vote. The school will post interviews with students at the “polling site” throughout the day on its Facebook page and announce who the students “elected” for President.

Engaging Even the Youngest Students

This time of the year, even the youngest children know something is up. They see a running stream of political advertisements on television, flyers coming in the mail with photos of politicians, and the ubiquitous lawn signs. To address the election with the younger set, many schools are turning to visual displays. Elementary schools in Pelham, for instance, have set up “word walls” highlighting vocabulary related to the election so kids can make the connection between what they sometimes hear at home and how it relates to the real world. Some educators, such as those at the Green Ivy Schools in Manhattan, approach the topic differently when it comes to the younger grades, waiting for them to raise the issue and ask questions. “Because we are committed to relevant and purposeful inquiry, we would explore the particular aspects of the election children ask about and want to pursue deeper knowledge in,” says Christina Stanfield, chief marketing officer at Green Ivy, “rather than preformulating how we want them to view any important election.” Whatever the approach, teachers know that a presidential election offers a once-in-four years opportunity to add some real-world excitement and engagement to their curriculum. “Our lessons are ideal for preparing students for life outside of the classroom,” Hickey says. “We want to open their eyes beyond Dobbs Ferry to create educated global citizens,” she says. Melissa Kagan is the former editor-in-chief of the now-defunct lifetimemoms.com. She is currently a freelance writer whose work has been featured in Mommy Poppins, Westchester Magazine, and Westchester Family. She lives in Pelham, NY, with her husband and two children.

presents

Special Guest Artist

Choreographed & Directed by

Eric Otto - Cavalier Former dancer with ABT, NYCB & more

Alan Woodard

Performed by the students of Connecticut Dance School

Sunday, December 11 th Two Performances

1:00 pm & 4:00 pm Quick Center for the Arts Fairfield University

Tickets: $40/$25 Call the Box Office 203.254.4010 or www.fairfield.edu/arts/quickcenterforthearts

Fairf ieldParent 15

Better Than an Apple a Day

››

Prevention is always preferable to having to treat your sick child. We asked area pediatricians how to help kids avoid common childhood health problems—and how to treat them when that fails. By Alison Kotch

hat’s more challenging than dealing with the ever-changing demands of parenting? Dealing with sick children: They’re miserable, and you want to do everything you can to make them better, fast. Your first instinct might be to call your pediatrician for advice once they’re under the weather, but let’s face it: You’d rather they didn’t get sick in the first place. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by conflicting online research and advice, so we asked local pediatricians how to prevent and treat several common health problems, so your little one can get back to happy and healthy, fast.

Cold and Flu

Among the most common and easily transmitted fall/winter/backto-school illnesses, colds and flu can strike regularly, as they’re spread by mucus and saliva. Symptoms: While a stuffy or runny nose, coughing, sore throat, and fever can be symptoms of both cold and flu, you’ll know if it’s the flu if your child is complaining—a lot. “I tell my parents all the time that snots are ok—kids are full of snots,” says Elissa Rubin, M.D., of Happy and Healthy Pediatrics in Mineola, NY. “If they’re miserable, that’s what you should pay attention to and look to avoid.” Causes: Sharing food or drink, or spending time in close contact with someone who is already sick Prevention: The flu vaccine is the best preventative measure: Once your child is 6 months old, it’s safe to get it. Other than that, “there’s no bubble to put our kids in to avoid all germ exposure,” 16

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says Stanley Jacob, M.D., of Helping Kids Pediatrics in New City, NY. But you can reduce the spread of germs by encouraging frequent hand washing to stop the illness from spreading. Treatment: Lots of rest, and avoiding exposure to others who are sick will help; electrolyte-enhanced fluids such as juice will go a long way toward helping strengthen the immune system to help it fight off infection.

Ear Infection

Aside from cavities, ear infections are one of the most common bacterial infections, and they occur when the middle ear becomes inflamed: Fluid builds up behind the eardrum, causing an earache. While five out of six kids will have one by their third birthday, these infections drop off by age 5 or 6. Symptoms: While ear pain is the most recognizable (your child will probably tell you she’s hurting), look out for ear pulling, which could be a sign of wax buildup and/or infection. Causes: In some children, viruses are the culprit; others might just be more prone to them. However, environmental factors such as smoking in the home or allowing your child to go to sleep with a bottle can also contribute. Prevention: “There is no way to prevent an ear infection, but talk to your doctor if your child is having recurrent ones for a otolaryngology referral,” recommends Dyan Hes, M.D., medical director of Gramercy Pediatrics in Manhattan.

Treatment: While your initial reaction might be to agree to put your child on antibiotics, stat, many physicians and parents are opting for the “watch and wait” approach. “If a child comes in with pain and an infection and has a cold, the recommendation is to wait for 24 hours and see how they’re doing, rather than just knee-jerk prescribe antibiotics,” says Christina Johns, M.D., senior medical advisor for PM Pediatrics, which has locations in New Jersey and the New York metro area. “Sometimes they feel better naturally, and the body becomes better at getting rid of it faster.”

Diabetes

In children without diabetes, the pancreas releases insulin into the bloodstream after meals, helping the body regulate blood sugar naturally; between meals, the liver releases stored glycogen and converts it into glucose, keeping blood sugar within a normal range. While the causes of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are different, both cause a buildup of sugar in the blood that needs to be regulated. Symptoms: Extreme hunger, weight loss, excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, irritability, and blurred vision Causes: While Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by genetics or exposure to viruses such as Coxsackie or Epstein-Barr, as children’s lifestyles become increasingly more sedentary (thanks, television and technology!), Type 2 diabetes is becoming more common: “We think of Type 2 as adult-onset diabetes, but with the obesity epidemic on the rise, we’re seeing it in 9- and 10-yearold kids,” Dr. Johns says. Prevention: There is no known way to prevent or cure Type 1—you’ll need to administer insulin shots for life—but Type 2 is avoidable. To prevent Type 2 diabetes, it’s important to be a good

role model through your own exercise and dietary habits. “If you keep your children active with at least 30-45 minutes of exercise daily and limit television and video games to no more than two hours, you can stay ahead of the potential development of diabetes and manage it if it comes—hopefully prevent it,” Dr. Jacob says. Treatment: If your child has Type 1 diabetes, topical anesthetics and a pep talk can ease the anxiety that can come with daily shots, Dr. Jacob says. A child psychiatrist can also assist with open communication about how to manage a chronic disease. For kids with Type 2, a healthy diet and daily exercise is key. Plus, studies have shown that people with diabetes tend to have low vitamin D, so adding dairy can help, too: Aim for two or three 8-ounce glasses of milk per day.

Depression

While the occasional bout of sadness is normal, depression can often go untreated because parents mistake it for normal emotional or psychological changes that occur as your child matures—and early depression can also be masked by acting out. Symptoms: Loss of interest in activities at home or school, hopelessness, appetite or sleep fluctuations, lack of energy, anxiety, anger, and not spending time with friends Causes: Change in family setting (divorce, death of a family member, moving); bullying, academic or social pressure. Lack of parental connection can also be an issue: “We live in a generation where parents look at their cellphones more than their children,” Dr. Rubin says. Be aware that the causes of a child’s depression are not always apparent, and it may not take a major event or obvious problem to spark depression. continued on next page ››

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Prevention: Trust your instincts, and let your children know you’re there to talk (and just as importantly, listen) during the tough times. “Let them know that you’re there but be open minded, and remember what it was like to be their age,” Dr. Jacob advises. “Actively listen and engage, be observant and ask questions—but realize when they need space.” Treatment: Since depression can be caused by neurotransmitters being out of balance, this is one case where a child’s psychiatrist can recommend medication—in combination with cognitive behavioral therapy—as a form of treatment. Just as important: Tending to your own mental health. “Parents need to be aware of their own anxieties, since issues from their own childhood often resurface,” adds Dr. Rubin. “Anxiety and depression is taught behavior. Break that cycle by being aware of your own emotions and monitoring them.”

Obesity

While some children are naturally heavier due to excess muscle from fat, bone, muscle, water, or a combination of all of the above, obesity is on the rise: According to the CDC, 1 in 6 children in the United States is obese. Symptoms: Children are considered obese when their body mass index is at or above the 95th percentile compared to children of similar age and sex. (To calculate BMI, divide your child’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters). Causes: Poor diet and a lack of exercise are top causes, but stress (and the emotional eating response to it) can also be contributing factors, especially if you’re guilty of this as a parent. “If you eat when you’re stressed or relate emotions to food, kids will notice that and do it too,” Dr. Rubin says. Prevention: Getting your kids interested in and excited about food at an early age is key. Try taking them to the store and letting them pick out their own fruits and vegetables, or allowing them to be involved in food preparation at home. Doing this will encourage kids to select fruit as a snack instead of sugary treats, Dr. Johns says. Another tip: Instead of rewarding accomplishments like a great report card with ice cream, ask your child what activity or outing he wants to do to celebrate instead. Treatment: If your child isn’t involved or interested in sports, take a walk with her, or offer to watch him doing his favorite activity. “What kids like more than anything is attention,” Dr. Johns says. “Whether it’s jumping rope or shooting hoops, they’ll be more likely to do something if you watch and give them positive feedback.”

Asthma

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If you’re wondering if your child’s cough could possibly be asthma, consider this: Most children with asthma have symptoms before age 5 and experience recurring coughing or wheezing that gets worse in the presence of irritants such as smoke or dust mites. Symptoms: Coughing at night, wheezing while breathing out, and/or fast breathing that causes the skin to tighten around the neck or ribs. A good test if you can’t tell: Have your child take a deep breath. If he starts coughing at the end or has spastic, relentless coughing fits, he likely has asthma, Dr. Rubin says. Causes: Although allergens and exercise can trigger asthma, the change in seasons can, too—especially the cold, dry air that winter brings. Genetics can also play a part, and so can your family pet (but don’t worry, you won’t need to get rid of it!) Prevention: If your household has pets, your pediatrician can administer a blood test to find out if your fluffy loved ones are the culprit. If they are, don’t worry: You can limit the pet to certain rooms in the house, or install a HEPA air filter to purify air in your

child’s room. Cleaning your home regularly (to reduce dust) and not smoking indoors can also help her breathe easy. Treatment: While a rescue inhaler can help children with intermittent asthma ward off periodic attacks, children with prolonged attacks will need to administer medication from a controller inhaler daily. Regardless of the type of asthma your child has, it’s wise to have an inhaler on hand—at home and at school. “Kids will let you know when they have tightness in their chest and ask for relief,” Dr. Rubin adds.

Bedwetting

Also known as enuresis, bedwetting is a common childhood problem that can be embarrassing for children, and frustrating and stressful for parents. The good news is that it’s usually easy to treat and typically stops on its own as your child learns how to control his or her bladder during the late stages of potty training. Symptoms: Touch your child’s sheets in the morning. If they’re wet or she comes downstairs with wet PJs, you’ll know something’s up. Causes: While some children can inherit it from their parents, others fall into such a deep sleep that their bladder just lets go. Even if your child is already potty trained when it occurs, younger children often regress due to divorce, separation, or during life changes, such as moving. Prevention: Behavioral change, such as limiting drinks and caffeine prior to bedtime, can help. In addition, products designed to treat the condition, called wet stop alarms, trigger an alarm that reminds your child to get up to use the bathroom. Treatment: Whatever you do, don’t make your child feel ashamed. Some children experience it until age 9 or 10, and pullups are a great solution to avoid frequent loads of laundry. Finally, don’t torture yourself thinking you’re doing something wrong. “No child will go to college wearing a diaper—they just need time to mature,” Dr. Rubin says.

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Nightmares

Any parent who’s had to comfort her child in the middle of the night knows that nightmares are a common—but easily fixed— childhood health problem. While young children in their “afraid of the dark” phase are most susceptible to nightmares, they can affect children at any age. Symptoms: Luckily, this one’s easy: Your child will likely let you know that she’s scared to go to bed (or wake you in the middle of the night, looking for comfort). Causes: Fear of the dark, lack of sleep, exposure to scary or unsettling TV without context Prevention: “Parents should make sure that children aren’t exposed to anything frightening on the TV or Internet, and discuss if there are any stressors leading to nightmares. Often, they will pass with time,” Dr. Hes says. Treatment: “There’s not much a parent can do but comfort during these times,” Dr. Hes says. A night-light, bedtime security object, or temporary distraction—such as face-washing, a back rub, or calming conversation about what’s troubling them—can help soothe them back to sleep. Remember, no child is healthy all the time and no amount of preventative effort is going to be 100-percent effective. So don’t beat yourself up when your child gets sick, and focus instead on giving her the TLC and medical care she needs to get back on her feet as quickly as she can!

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Fairf ieldParent 19

Health & Wellness A LOCAL GUIDE FOR YOUR FAMILY’S NEEDS! Health All Natural Lice Removal Service

203-702-3379 liceladyct.com liceladyct@aol.com All Natural Lice Removal Service, located in Brookfield. Your child will be lice-free in one visit (except extreme cases). This pediatrician recommended service is 100-percent guaranteed, safe, and non-toxic. Lice have become extremely resistant to over-thecounter chemicals. You will save time, money, and a lot of stress by coming here first. Read our reviews and testimonials. Sameday appointments are available.

Children’s Therapy and Learning Center

2228 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 201, Fairfield 203-908-4433 childtherapycenter.com Children’s Therapy and Learning Center is Fairfield’s leading pediatric clinic offering integrative and collaborative care for children and their families. Services provided include occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, academic tutoring, social skills instruction and groups, handwriting instruction and groups, and summer learning camp. Age appropriate interventions for infants and toddlers, young children, school-aged children, adolescents, and young adults are provided by our licensed and certified professional team. Our staff is comprised of therapists, teachers, consultants, and medical assistants. Most major insurances accepted.

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, ages 1 to teens, 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!

Excel Urgent Care of Fairfield and Stamford Westport Urgent Care

excel-urgentcare.com Excel Urgent Care of Fairfield and Stamford, and Westport Urgent Care provide prompt access to trusted physicians and compassionate care when you need it. Our team delivers state-of-the-art care with a community feel. Most insurance accepted. When you have a non-life-threatening illness or injury, our skilled providers will diagnose and treat your condition with minimal wait times. The next time you or your child needs a physical, visit Excel Urgent Care of Fairfield and Stamford or Westport Urgent Care. No appointment is necessary, but feel free to check in online. Open seven days a week!

MY SMILE Orthodontics, Dr. Maria Karayiannis, D.M.D.

865 River Road, Suite 307, Shelton 203-538-5014 72 Park St., Suite 97, New Canaan 731 Main St., Unit 104, Monroe 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 post-graduate 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.

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.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.”

Pediatric Dentistry @ Westport Dental Associates

329 Riverside Ave., Westport 203-635-7070 pediatricdentistryofwestport.com drahn@westportdental.com We are now open at our new state-of-the-art office! Dr. Hannah Ahn emphasizes the importance of the age 1 visit and feels strongly that starting early helps create a lifetime of healthy habits. We have created a kid friendly environment that includes a fun photo wall with props, a TV on the ceiling, a prize station, and other fun elements. Our goal is to provide the best dental care while keeping the experience fun and memorable for everyone. Feel free to contact us for a tour!

Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut Locations in Norwalk, Danbury, Trumbull, Stamford, and Poughkeepsie, NY 761 Main Ave., Suite 200, Norwalk 103 Newtown Road, Suite 1A, Danbury 115 Technology Drive, Suite C200, Trumbull

1290 Summer St., Suite 3200, Stamford 68 W. Cedar St., Poughkeepsie, NY 203-286-4254 rmact.com At Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut, we have one goal: to help our patients succeed in building the families they desire. Every day, our physicians, nurses, and team work toward accomplishing this goal with all of our patients who entrust us with their family-building dreams. Outstanding care begins with a partnership between patients and an award-winning team of board-certified fertility doctors. Patients are offered comprehensive services including acupuncture, nutrition counseling, and therapy. We are proud to offer world-class personalized fertility treatment services that include in vitro fertilization (IVF), intra-uterine insemination (IUI), egg donation, and genetic embryo screening (PGS).

St. Vincent’s Special Needs Services

95 Merritt Blvd., Trumbull 203-386-2715 stvincentsspecialneeds.org St. Vincent’s Special Needs Services is a trusted provider of lifelong education and therapeutic services. Our special education school for children, ages 3-21, is an alternative placement option for children with developmental disabilities, special health care needs, and autism spectrum disorders. Physical, occupational, speech-language, and aquatic therapies are all offered as part of each student’s individualized education plan. Parent education and transition support services, adult day and work services, and residential placements are also available.

Stamford Health

1 Hospital Plaza, Stamford 203-276-1000 healingreimagined.stamfordhealth.org The new Stamford Hospital in Fairfield County was designed to provide a unique healing environment. Key features include 180 private patient rooms with

private bathrooms to provide comfort, promote healing, and prevent infection. A new Emergency Department holds double the amount of treatment space, offering separate and dedicated treatment areas for cardiac care, behavioral health, trauma, and pediatric patients. Larger operating rooms accommodate both current and future technology, and a central location for all Heart & Vascular Institute services. There are two family lounges per patient floor with centralized nurses’ stations.

Western Connecticut Health Network

At Western Connecticut Health Network–We Know You Well wchn.org As flu season approaches, it is important for parents to consider vaccinating their children against this year’s flu strains. The circulating flu virus changes from year to year, so a previous vaccine is no guarantee of protection. Children who get the shot are much less likely to get flu than those who don’t get the shot. A vaccine won’t make you flu-proof, but it will greatly reduce your child’s chances of severe illness or hospitalization. Even healthy children can become very ill with flu. Please consider vaccinating now, before flu season peaks later this winter. —Gregory Dworkin, M.D.

Westport Family Counseling

250 Post Road E., Suite 106, Westport 203-227-4555 westportfamilycounseling.org Westport Family Counseling is a group practice with a team of therapists in downtown Westport. We work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. WFC treats a variety of issues including life transitions, depression, anxiety, marital difficulties, stress management, parenting challenges, OCD, ADHD, and trauma. We also offer nutritional counseling and DBT Groups for adolescents and adults. Additionally, we have a staff psychiatrist and offer medication management services. Call 203-227-4555, email wfc@wfcmail.org, or visit westportfamilycounseling.org for more information.

Sara Ysaac-Garcia, D.M.D. Board-certified pediatric dentist

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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, inflat-

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Sky Zone Trampoline Park

13 Francis J. Clarke Circle, Bethel 203-428-4080 skyzone.com/bethel events.bethel@skyzone.com 360 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, Norwalk 203-939-7222 skyzone.com/norwalk events.norwalk@skyzone.com Throw your child the best party ever at Sky Zone! Your kids and their friends will experience the “wow” of jumping, flying, and flipping on our wall-to-wall trampoline courts. Give your child the best gift of all: pure joy! Throwing a great party can get complicated, but Sky Zone makes it easy. Just bring the kids, and we do the rest. Your child will thank you and go home happy (and maybe even a little healthier)! Reserve today and see why Sky Zone was voted “Best Party Ever!”

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Connecticut Dance School

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FOOD & NUTRITION

A New Spin on Thanksgiving Favorites ›› Three cookbook authors share their takes on traditional side dishes to amp up our favorite fall feast. Oyster Stuffing for American Thanksgiving American Thanksgiving is always a big hit at our farmhouse. Each year, I carefully plan a harvest menu using as many ingredients from the farm as possible. We invite family and friends and generally serve the traditional stuffed turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, but I always like to add a few surprises depending on what is left in the garden as well. One Thanksgiving, a fellow American expat living in Dublin joined us at the farm. She made an unforgettable oyster stuffing that we have adopted as a new Thanksgiving tradition ever since. Here’s my take on it. Serves 8-10 Ingredients 11 cups crusty bread cut into ½-inch cubes 6 slices bacon, coarsely chopped 6 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing the pan 6 shallots, thinly sliced 1 leek, thinly sliced 4 celery stalks, thinly sliced 40 medium (about 1 lb) oysters, shucked, with 1 cup of the liquor reserved

1 cup chicken stock ¼ cup sherry 1/ 3 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley 2 tbsp. chopped thyme leaves 2 tbsp. chopped sage leaves 1 tsp. sweet marjoram, chopped 1 tbsp. fennel seeds ½ tsp. hot pepper sauce Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions 1. P reheat the oven to 300˚F. Butter a 2-quart oval baking dish; set aside. 22

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

2. Arrange the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake, stirring occasionally, until dried but not browned, approximately 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool. 3. Cook the bacon in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until it is crisp and the fat has rendered, approximately 10 minutes. Add 4 tablespoons of the melted butter. Add the shallots, leek, and celery; reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, approximately 10 minutes. 4. Add the oyster liquor, chicken stock, sherry, parsley, thyme, sage, marjoram, fennel seeds, hot pepper sauce, and salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Scrape the mixture into a large bowl, and stir in the bread cubes and oysters. Set aside to allow the flavors to come together for 10 minutes. 5. Raise the oven temperature to 400°F. Transfer the oyster mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, drizzle with the remaining butter, and continue baking until golden brown and crusty, approximately 15 minutes more. 6. Serve immediately. Scullery Notes Fresh oysters are best, but if you are in a pinch, canned or jarred oysters in liquor will work as well. From The Farmette Cookbook, © 2016 by Imen McDonnell. Reprinted by arrangement with Roost Books, an imprint of Shambhala Publications Inc., Boulder, CO. roostbooks.com

Eggplant Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Squash with Ginger Shallot Browned Butter

Eggplant mashed potatoes? Sounds a little crazy, right? Trust me— they’re not! This recipe is perfection, as well as a wonderfully creative way of hiding extra veggies in a well-loved dish. The inspiration for this was sort of random: I once had a comment on my blog about putting tahini in mashed potatoes. Months and months later, while I was cooking, my mind jumped back to that comment. My taste buds and brain went from tahini to hummus to babaganoush to eggplant to “Hey! That might not be too bad!” And it wasn’t bad—in fact, it was awesome! Just make sure you roast the eggplant to complete creaminess, and you’ll have yourself a surprisingly delicious side dish featuring a double dose of vegetables!

I could happily eat plain roasted squash on a regular basis. Its natural sweetness paired with a sprinkle of salt and wrapped in a crisp-on-theoutside, soft-on-the-inside bite is near perfection. But since I like to make it easy to spice things up, I often dress my roasted squash in ginger shallot browned butter. And boy, is it mouthwateringly good.

Serves 4 as a side dish Ingredients 1 small eggplant, halved Olive oil for roasting 1 tsp. salt, plus more for baking eggplant 3 medium creamer potatoes, chopped

2 tbsp. dairy-free butter Splash of dairy-free milk Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Directions 1. P reheat the oven to 400°F.  2. B rush the flesh side of the eggplant with olive oil and sprinkle it with salt. 3. P lace the eggplant halves peel side down on a baking sheet and cook for 30-40 minutes (depending on the size), until the insides are very, very tender. Pierce through the top to test the inside; the softer, the better. 4. W hile the eggplant is roasting, place the potatoes in a medium pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the potatoes are soft. 5. D rain the water from the potatoes and place them in a large bowl. Remove the peel, if you prefer. 6. S coop out the inside of the eggplant and place it in the mixing bowl with the potato. Discard the peel. 7. W hip the potatoes, eggplant, butter, and salt together until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk, if necessary. 8. Season with salt and pepper. A Note About This Recipe: While I don’t like to rely on “hidden vegetable” meals, since I think kids should learn to love every vegetable on its own (okay, well, maybe not every one), sometimes they are the quickest way to get your kid to start eating less-palatable veggies. This dish works like a charm. Tip: Garlic mashed potatoes? Yes, please! Since you’ll be heating up the oven to cook the eggplant anyway, consider roasting a whole head of garlic, too, and mixing it in with the potatoes. Kid-Friendly Tip: Nutritional yeast, always and forever. A sad day for Marlowe (the author’s daughter) involves mashed potatoes without it. Throw in a tablespoon when you whip the potatoes.

Recipe from The Plantiful Table: Easy, From-the-Earth Recipes for the Whole Family, copyright © Andrea Duclos, 2015. Reprinted by permission of the publisher, The Experiment. Available wherever books are sold. theexperimentpublishing.com

Serves 4 Ingredients Approximately 6 cups peeled, seeded, and cubed butternut squash, cut into 1- to 2-inch pieces (from one mediumsize squash or two 20-ounce packages of precut squash) 2 tbsp. olive oil

¼ tsp. salt, plus more to taste Freshly ground black pepper 4 tbsp. (½ stick) unsalted butter ½ cup thinly sliced shallots 2 tsp. chopped fresh ginger Chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, toss the squash with the olive oil, the ¼ teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Spread the squash in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet (set the empty bowl aside to keep cleanup to a minimum) and roast until tender all the way through and caramelized in spots, approximately 40 minutes. (Make sure that the squash can hold its shape well enough to be handled without getting mushy.) 2. In the meantime, in a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted completely and begins to foam, start swirling the pan continuously. Watch carefully as the butter cooks and turns color: once you see it turn chestnut brown, remove the pan from the heat and add the shallots and ginger. Swirl the pan a couple more times and return to the heat. 3. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the ginger is fragrant and the shallots are soft and caramelized in spots, approximately 3 minutes. Take off the heat for good and set aside. 4. R emove the squash from the oven and carefully transfer it to the bowl you’ve set aside. Pour the ginger shallot browned butter over the squash and gently toss. Season with more salt and pepper to taste, if desired, and garnish with chives, if using. Serve immediately. Make It Easier: Get help from the store—or a very sharp knife. Let’s be honest, dealing with butternut squash can be a total drag. Although you don’t always get the same vibrant flavor out of the precut kind you can find in most supermarkets nowadays, I find the shortcut totally worth it, especially when roasting will coax out so much delicious flavor. If you can’t find or just refuse to buy precut (hey, we all choose the hard path for something!), make it easy by using a sharp knife and sharp peeler. Start by cutting off each end of the squash, then peel—with a peeler, not your knife. Once you’ve removed all the skin, stand the squash upright on one of the cut ends. It should be stable so that you can cut the vegetable in half lengthwise. Once split open, you can scoop out the seeds with a spoon and cut each half where the neck meets the body. The neck will be solid; cut it into slices at whatever thickness you like (1½-2 inches is good), then cut each slice into strips and, after that, cubes. Cut each remaining half in slices and each slice into cubes. You did it. Excerpted from Make It Easy: 120 Mix-and-Match Recipes to Cook From Scratch—with Smart Store-Bought Shortcuts When You Need Them by Stacie Billis. Copyright © 2016. Available from Da Capo Lifelong Books, an imprint of Perseus Books, LLC, a subsidiary of Hachette Book Group, Inc.

Fairf ieldParent 23

OUTINGS: Morris-Jumel Mansion

nymetroparents.com/outings

Manhattan’s Oldest House 1

1 Inside the historical mansion, visitors can see the way people lived centuries ago. 2 Children take care of the lush gardens surrounding the property. 3 The outside of the Morris-Jumel Mansion, NYC’s oldest house. 4 Many people including George Washington have called the mansion home. 5 The mansion offers

yoga on the grounds.

Morris-Jumel Mansion serves as a cultural resource for national and international visitors and particularly the diverse residents of New York City. Visitors will learn about the lives of the people who have been an important part of the history of this mansion, which includes both the Morris and Jumel families and even George Washington. Harlem Renaissance artists and many immigrant groups have been neighbors to the mansion as well.

Year-Round Features

The mansion provides an unsurpassed educational history for children and young adults via writing, critical thinking, and art. The adult program focuses on theater, music, lectures, and tours of the mansion. Docent-guided tours of the mansion are offered regularly—$12 for adults and $9 for students and seniors. Lead by one of the mansion’s expert docents, families can learn about the rich history of the mansion, the famous people who have come through it over the years, and the rich lives of people from centuries ago. 24

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

School tours, full of hands-on learning adventures, are beloved by students. Kids learn about archaeology, the Revolutionary War, and more. The garden and grounds are spectacular, and events such as yoga and picnicking are a wonderful way to see the manicured landscape, the lush greenery, and fresh flowers. Various art exhibitions from artists worldwide are on display year-round and change season by season.

illusions that create a moving image. The event is free with the price of museum admission. RSVP by calling 212-923-8008 or email education@morrisjumel.org. This event is recommended for kids ages 8-14. An additional Family Day is scheduled for Nov. 19 during which you can make homemade butter and learn about colonial-style cooking to prep for Thanksgiving. It’s free to attend this mouthwatering event with the price of museum admission.

November Highlights

Details

This month offers some exciting programs and events that are not to be missed. From Nov. 3-5, see a theatrical performance from 8-9pm entitled Fancy Me Mad. The play is set in Baltimore and will intrigue the audience with a story of a young man visiting the home of his recently deceased grandmother at which he learns of her obsession with Edgar Allen Poe. Family Day will be held Nov. 5 from 11am1pm. Families can create a movie as they were made in the 1860s using zoetropes—optical

Address: 65 Jumel Terrace, Manhattan Directions: Approximately a 1-hour drive from Norwalk Hours: Monday, by appointment only; Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm. The museum is closed on New Year’s, Memorial, Labor, Thanksgiving, and Christmas days. Admission: $10; $8 seniors and students; free for children 12 and younger and members For more information: 212-923-8008 or morrisjumel.org

Courtesy Morris-Jumel Mansion

See an example of domestic life in New York City as the immigration of people from Europe to Washington Heights came forth in the late 1800s in this historical mansion. ›› By Melissa A. Kay

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November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

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Turn the page for details on The New York City Ballet Performs George Balanchine’s ‘The Nutcracker’ (No. 7 on our list).

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WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

NOVEMBER CALENDAR

28 Editor’s Hot Tickets

35 Show Time!

30 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Animal Lovers

36 Holiday Fun, Movers & Shakers

32 The Great Outdoors, Special Needs

37 On Screen

33 Must-Sees in NYC

38 Once Upon a Time, Smarty Pants

34 Crafty Kids, Browse & Buy

39 Kindness Crusaders

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!

Election on the Farm

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 8, 11am-3pm WHERE: Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford AGES: All WHAT: Vote for your favorite farm animal during this annual election on the farm. Will the guinea hogs take the vote or be edged out by Dakota the Clydesdale or the new baby goats? WHY WE LOVE IT: Children get a chance to be part of the voting process and have their voices heard. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 4-17; free for children younger than 4. 203-322-1646. stamfordmuseum.org.

Family Focus: Election Day FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 8, 10:30am and 2pm WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: Step back in time when the people of Connecticut had to choose sides between King George and the Tories and George Washington and the Patriots. WHY WE LOVE IT: Every election seems to have its share of strong personalities...even the very first one! WANT TO GO? 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

Storytelling and Bonfires with Virginia Overton

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 12, 6-8pm WHERE: Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy fireside stories shared by local author Lauren Acampora and novelist and Interview magazine editor-at-large Christopher Bollen. Partake in seasonal refreshments for all ages. WHY WE LOVE IT: Can’t beat a cozy evening of stories and s’mores. WANT TO GO? $10 per family of four. 203-438-4519. aldrichart.org. 28

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

Pie Night

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 18, 6-8pm WHERE: Ogden House, 1520 Bronson Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: Before Thanksgiving, friends and families visited neighbors, sampling a variety of pies at each house. Enjoy this tradition with pie tasting and candlelight tours at the Ogden House. WHY WE LOVE IT: This tradition dates back to the early 1800s. WANT TO GO? Suggested donation: $5; $3 students. 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

‘The Mixed-Up Fairy Tale’

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 20, 1pm and 4pm WHERE: Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Court, Westport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: The audience must break a spell or Beauty will sleep for 100 years, convince Red Riding Hood to give up her cape, discover the secret under grandma’s bed, climb a beanstalk, and get a gold spoon from a 10-foot-tall giant. WHY WE LOVE IT: This interactive musical is sure to have the audience rolling in the aisles with laughter. WANT TO GO? $20. 203-227-4177. westportplayhouse.org.

‘Frosty the Snowman’

WHEN: Nov. 12–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.

S T. V I N C E N T S

The New York City Ballet Performs George Balanchine’s ‘The Nutcracker’

WHEN: Nov. 25–Dec. 31, see website for times WHERE: David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Tchaikovsky’s beloved melodies will transport you to a magical world in which mischievous mice besiege a battalion of soldiers, and an onstage blizzard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets. WHY WE LOVE IT: A New York holiday tradition—the original and the best! WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 212-496-0600. nycballet.com.

Heart and Seoul: Growing Up in Korea

gentler hands to guide. sharper minds to educate and empower. At St. Vincent’s Special Needs Services we see abilities, not disabilities, and act upon our mission to create opportunities for the children and adults in our care to live, learn, work and play in the community. We use the latest technology and provide individualized education plans to meet the unique needs of each person we serve to help them be as independent as possible. • Birth-to-three early intervention • Private school with individualized therapies for children ages 3-21 with multiple developmental disabilities, autism, and complex medical needs • Adult day & supported employment programs • Residential group homes for children and adults

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. WHY WE LOVE IT: Five modern-day Korean children open their hearts and invite you to take an intimate look into their lives. WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 1. 203-8990606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

Call (203) 375-6400 for more information.

95 Merritt Boulevard / Trumbull, CT

stvincentsspecialneeds.org

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.

A Billion Bricks: Lego® Super Heroes in Gotham

WHEN: Nov. 19–Feb. 5, 2017, Monday-Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sundays, 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 by Lego® bricks. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 4-17; free for children younger than 4. 203-322-1646. stamfordmuseum.org. ››

Carol Shoke Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel Learn, Play, Grow • Gan Katan (Mommy and Me) • Two, Threes and Pre-K • Afternoon Enrichment Options • “Spring into Summer” Program Registration opens in November for 2017-2018

Nurturing and growing the whole child in an environment of discovery and creativity guided by the traditions and values of Jewish life. Warm, professionally trained teachers inspire a lifetime love of learning.

Nancy Isaacs, Director: nIsaacs@tiwestport.org 203.227.1656 | www.tiwestport.org

Fairf ieldParent 29

UBS Parade Spectacular FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 20, 12pm WHERE: Stamford Downtown, Summer Street to Broad and Atlantic streets, Stamford AGES: All WHAT: Parade featuring everyone’s favorite giant balloon characters, award-winning marching bands, and fabulous floats. WANT TO GO? 203-348-5285. stamford-downtown.com.

ANIMAL LOVERS Coastal Bird Trip Cove Island Park

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

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

WHEN: Nov. 2-5, Wednesday and Saturday, 11am WHERE: Shubert Theater, 247 College St., New Haven AGES: All WHAT: Learn the history of the Shubert. Meet at the main lobby doors. WANT TO GO? 203-562-5666. shubert.com.

Family Fall Festival FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2:30-4pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: All WHAT: Drop in and make caramel apples, jump for doughnuts, make a craft, and listen to stories. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Family Festivities Kick-off Party FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 13, 1-4pm WHERE: Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Court, Westport AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy family activities including story reading and games. WANT TO GO? 203-227-4177. westportplayhouse.org.

Metro-North Railroad Presents Get There Safe! FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 3-3:45pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Together Railroads and Communities Keeping Safe is a free outreach program in partnership with the MTA Police department, designed to educate the community about rail safety. TRACKS covers three topics: grade crossing, track safety, and trespassing. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 5, 8:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Audubon Greenwich, 613 Riversville Road, Greenwich AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Seek out raptors, songbirds, shorebirds, and more. Meet at Cove Island Park, near the entrance gate at the southwest corner of the parking lot. WANT TO GO? $7. 203-930-1387. greenwich.audubon.org.

First Sunday Bird Walk FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 6, 9-11:10am WHERE: Greenwich Point Park, Tods Driftway and Shore Road, Old Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: Meet on the beach near southern concession stand. Bring binoculars. WANT TO GO? 203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Election Day Fun FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 8, 10am-1pm WHERE: Connecticut Audubon Society, 2325 Burr St., Fairfield AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Take a walk in the woods to explore the changes of the season. Make nature crafts indoors and meet this year’s slate of live animals running for Favorite Critter. WANT TO GO? $40. 203-259-6305. ctaudubon.org.

Backyard Birding FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 12, 10-11am WHERE: Connecticut Audubon Society, 2325 Burr St., Fairfield AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn how to identify Connecticut’s birds by sight and sound, see who is at the feeder this time of year, and find out about bird feeding habits. WANT TO GO? 203-259-6305. ctaudubon.org.

Turkeyfish Weekend

WHEN: Nov. 12-13, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Guests touch real turkeyfish spines while learning about lionfish and other invasive species, and what makes them such a challenge to native flora and fauna. 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.

Tales to Tails FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 11am-12pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5-12

WHAT: ROAR’s (Ridgefield Operation Animal Rescue) Therapy Dog Program will be bringing therapy dogs to the library for children to read to them. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Nature Nursery Fall Harvest

WHEN: Through Nov. 21: Mondays, 10-10:45am WHERE: Connecticut Audubon Society, 2325 Burr St., Fairfield AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children discover fun facts, create cool crafts, and meet interesting animals. WANT TO GO? $16 per class. 203-259-6305. ctaudubon.org.

8th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Village

WHEN: Nov. 25–Dec. 24, reindeer feedings: daily, 4pm; plus, Saturday-Sunday, 9am 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? Photo packages start at $29.99. 203-531-3047. greenwichreindeerfestival.com.

Animals Without Passports Special Exhibit

www.whimsiesdollhouseshop.com

WHEN: Through Jan. 2, 2017: daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All 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 Pangea: In the Footsteps of the Dinosaurs

WHEN: Nov. 19–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. ››

Is your child on the autism spectrum? Play an important role in research by having your child participate in a free and confidential study. If you have a child who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Yale has clinical studies available that examine your child’s social, communication, and emotional skills. This research will lead to new methods to develop, track, and assess treatments in ASD. You will receive a psychoeducational evaluation describing your child’s development over six months.

James McPartland, PhD, Principal Investigator

To find out more about the ABC-CT, call 203-785-6108 or visit www.asdbiomarkers.org

Studies are approved by the Yale Human Investigations Committee - HIC # 1509016477

Yale Fairf ieldParent 31

Fall Walk FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Connecticut Audubon Society, 2325 Burr St., Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: Hike the trails with a naturalist and discover the beauty of the fall season in the Larsen Sanctuary. WANT TO GO? Donations welcome. 203-259-6305. ctaudubon.org.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Warren Miller’s ‘Here, There and Everywhere’

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 4, 8pm WHERE: Stamford Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Take a free ski adventure in Crested Butte, tour Eastern Greenland by dog sled with Seth Wescott and Rob Kingwill, and follow Jess McMillan and Grete Eliassen on a Swiss holiday aboard the Glacier Express. WANT TO GO? $19.50. 203-325-1407. stamfordsymphony.org.

Fred Elser First Sunday Science at the Seaside Center: Discover Shellfishing FREE

Sunday Explorers

WHEN: Nov. 13-27, Sundays, 11:30am-4pm WHERE: Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This popular Sunday drop-in program offers a jam-packed day of crafts, hikes, and animal meet and greets. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 4-17; free for children younger than 4. 203-322-1646. stamfordmuseum.org.

Rising Tides Exhibition

WHEN: Through Feb. 28: 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.

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 6, 1:30-4pm WHERE: Greenwich Point Park, Tod’s Driftway, Old Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: The Greenwich Shellfish Commission will demonstrate shellfishing techniques and talk about how to collect clams and oysters from local waters. WANT TO GO? 203-413-6742. brucemuseum.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Touch-A-Truck & Chili Cook-Off

Sensory-Friendly Morning

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 6, 11am-3pm WHERE: Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford AGES: All WHAT: Get hands-on with some larger-than-life vehicles during TouchA-Truck. Find out how these trucks work, what purposes they serve, and climb inside a few. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 4-17; free for children younger than 4. 203-322-1646. stamfordmuseum.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 6, 8am-12pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Lights in the aquarium will be lower, and music and other sounds will be turned down or off. Aquarium educators will offer special tactile activities. 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.

Astronomy and Starcraft

FAP: Networking Autism Moms and Dads Pizza Group FREE

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 11, 8-10pm WHERE: Trumbull Nature and Arts Center, 7115 Main St., Trumbull AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Members of the Astronomical Society of New Haven bring their powerful telescopes so you can view the stars and planets close up. WANT TO GO? $10 per family. 203-452-4421. trumbullnatureandartscenter.org.

Astronomy Nights: Billions & Billions & Billions: An Explanation of Stars

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 18, 7pm WHERE: Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Start by enjoying an astronomy presentation, followed by a visit to view the night sky through a 22-inch telescope, weather permitting. WANT TO GO? $5; $3 for children younger 18. 203-322-1646. stamfordmuseum.org. 32

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Monday, Nov. 28, 7:30pm WHERE: Pizza Post, 522 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: De-stress at this meeting at which you can enjoy a glass of wine (on FAP) and relax among your tribe. WANT TO GO? 203-661-8510. autisticadults.net. ››

CityBound

Macy’s Inc.

Must-Sees in N Y C

Planning an Activity or Event for Children or Families? Get FREE Exposure on

Fairf ieldParent.com

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Fam

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Flying High for 90 Years

MSG Entertainment

The Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade marches onto Central Park West for its 90th (yes 90th!) year this month. Get up really early (6am) on Turkey Day to secure a spot to see the parade and take in the holiday atmosphere. Seeing the giant helium balloons, performers, and marching bands in person is a must-do Thanksgiving tradition. The whole family will be transfixed at the sight of favorites such as Spider-Man, Buzz Lightyear, and NYMetroParents.com/ SpongeBob. You can also check out the helium giants up close at the popular big balloon inflation event the day before, which has become as big an event as the parade itself! See nymetroparents. com for details. Nov. 24, 9am-12pm. Age: All. Parade begins at 77th Street and Central Park West, Upper West Side. 212-494-4495. macys.com/parade.

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High Kicks and Holiday Fun Whether it’s your first time or your 10th, a visit to the iconic Radio City Music Hall to see the The Christmas Spectacular Featuring The Radio City Rockettes is a New York holiday tradition. Audiences have been lining up since 1933 to see classic routines such as The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and The Living Nativity as well as high-kicking new numbers. Old fashioned fun that will appeal to all ages. Nov. 11-Jan. 2, 2016. Check website for show times. Age: 6 and older. $49-$120. Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Sixth Ave., Midtown. 866-858-0007. radiocitychristmas.com.

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 33

Dewey Knit FREE

WHEN: Nov. 2-16, Wednesdays, 4pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 9 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.

Cupcake Club FREE

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 18, 4-5pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Follow step-by-step instructions to decorate a fancy cupcake. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Saturday ArtLab: Magnificent Castles

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 9-10:15am and 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Westport Arts Center, 51 Riverside Ave., Westport AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore pen and ink techniques in this workshops that invite you to design your own medieval or fantasy castle. WANT TO GO? $40. 203-222-7070. westportartscenter.org.

CRAFTY KIDS

Pre-K Weekend Workshop: Pulled String Painting Party

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 2, 4pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: All WHAT: Brainstorm ideas for creating a CD cover of yourself or your rock band, as part of the monthly artist-in-residence challenge. WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 10am-5pm WHERE: Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Find twigs in the museum’s Sculpture Garden, and transform them into dazzling mobiles. WANT TO GO? 203-438-4519. aldrichart.org.

An Afternoon with Chef Dorie Greenspan FREE

Afternoon Studios: Lighted Lanterns

Workshop with Artist in Residence, Miggs Burroughs FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 5, 1pm WHERE: Fairfield University Bookstore, 1499 Post Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: The author of Dorie’s Cookies will be on hand to sign copies of her book. WANT TO GO? 203-255-7756. fairfieldbookstore.com.

Miniature Monsters: Election Day Workshop

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 8, 10am-12pm and 2-4pm WHERE: Westport Arts Center, 51 Riverside Ave., Westport AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Inspired by illustrator Lance Cardinal’s Floozles, create your very own out of this world creature out of clay. WANT TO GO? $50. 203-222-7070. westportartscenter.org.

Button Making for Teens FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Swing by the Innovation Station and learn how to use the library’s new button maker. Create unique designs, add slogans, and go home with a few fun buttons. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org. 34

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 3-4pm WHERE: Westport Arts Center, 51 Riverside Ave., Westport AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Create intricate abstract art using string and paint. Learn different techniques for pulling, splattering, and dribbling paint in a creative and purposeful way. WANT TO GO? $30. 203-222-7070. westportarts.z2systems.com.

Third Saturdays FREE

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 25, 2-4pm WHERE: Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield AGES: All WHAT: Join artist Alissa Siegal to design paper lanterns for the holiday season. Turn your lantern into an animal or simply add colors and materials to make your own unique work of art. WANT TO GO? $10; free for children younger than 18. 203-438-4519. aldrichart.org.

BROWSE & BUY CraftWestport

WHEN: Nov. 5-6, Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Staples High School, 70 North Ave., Westport AGES: All WHAT: CraftWestport is a pop-up marketplace of local artists and will include fun, budget-friendly items great for the holiday season. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 12-17; free for children younger than 12. 845-331-7900. craftwestport.com.

SHOW TIME! Building 429 with Colton Dixon

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 2, 7pm WHERE: Stamford Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Building 429 brings The Earthshaker Tour to The Palace this fall along with American Idol contestant Colton Dixon and special guests Finding Favour. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 203-325-4466. palacestamford.org.

Sacred Heart Academy Presents ‘The Little Mermaid’

WHEN: Nov. 4-5, Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm and 8pm WHERE: Shubert Theater, 247 College St., New Haven AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Based on the animated motion picture, this stage musical is performed by the students of Sacred Heart Academy. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 203-562-5666. shubert.com.

PEDIATRIC THERAPY SERVICES Occupational Therapy Speech and Language Therapy Sensory Processing Skills Social Skills Groups Feeding Therapy and Oral-Motor Skills Early Intervention Support Specialized Young Adult Services Most Insurance Plans Accepted! 2228 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 201, Fairfield, CT 06825 Tel 203-908-4433 ● Fax 203-908-4449 www.childtherapycenter.com

‘Scottish Fantasy’

WHEN: Nov. 12-13, Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: Stamford Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford AGES: All WHAT: Head to the misty, windy shores of Scotland and experience the quintessential Scottish sounds of bagpipes and music inspired by its landscape. WANT TO GO? $25; free for children younger than 18 on Sunday. 203-325-1407. stamfordsymphony.org.

American Traditional Music from The Quickstep Trio FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 13, 2pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: All WHAT: Folk songs and fiery fiddles are features in the Quickstep Trio’s concert of American music. WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

MAKE THIS SCHOOL YEAR GREATER THAN LAST YEAR! As your child gears up to head back to school, Mathnasium is here to help set the stage for success! Our unique teaching method is designed to strengthen math foundations, boost confidence, and ultimately, make math make sense. Whether your child is ahead of the curve, performing at grade level, or falling behind, together, we can make this school year greater than last year!

‘A Dickens Tale’

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E. Ridge Ave., Ridgefield AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Actors recreate Victorian England in this beloved retelling of the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol. WANT TO GO? $15. 203-438-5795. ridgefieldplayhouse.org. ››

Math Help and Enrichment

Mathnasium of Greenwich 407 E. Putnam Ave Cos Cob, CT 203-861-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com/greenwich

Test Prep

Mathnasium of Darien 15 Corbin Dr Darien, CT 203-655-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com/darien

Homework Help

Mathnasium of Fairfield 1700 Post Rd Fairfield, CT 203-259-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com/fairfield

Fairf ieldParent 35

Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 20, 1-4:30pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: All WHAT: From turkey centerpieces to celebratory place mats, you’ll find something fun to make and take away. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

90th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade FREE

HOLIDAY FUN Family Focus: Veteran’s Day FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 24, 9am-12pm WHERE: Central Park West and 77th Street to Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street, via Central Park South and Sixth Avenue, Upper West Side and Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: If you want to see it in person, arrive early and well before the parade starts to secure a good spot, or watch the whole thing on TV while still in your PJs. WANT TO GO? 212-494-4495. macys.com/parade.

Lantern Light Tours

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 11, 10:30am and 2pm WHERE: Fairfield Museum and History Center, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield AGES: All WHAT: View soldiers’ uniforms and discover how the community came together in tough times throughout history. WANT TO GO? 203-259-1598. fairfieldhistory.org.

WHEN: Nov. 25–Dec. 23, Friday-Satuday, 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.

Rock Shabbat: The Shabbatones FREE

‘The Polar Express’

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 11, 6:30pm WHERE: Temple Shalom, 259 Richards Ave., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: A musical Shabbat experience featuring Temple Shalom’s own rock band, The Shabbatones. WANT TO GO? 203-866-0148. templeshalomweb.org.

Gratitude Boxes for Thanksgiving

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 1-3pm WHERE: Trumbull Nature and Arts Center, 7115 Main St., Trumbull AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Children will make beautiful gifts with miniature water paints, twigs, and glitter, and bundle them into a box perfect for the Thanksgiving holiday. WANT TO GO? $20 per child. 203-452-4421. trumbullnatureandartscenter.org.

The Enchanted Forest

WHEN: Nov. 18-20, Friday-Sunday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Hyatt Regency Greenwich, 1800 E. Putnam Ave., Old Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: Activities include decorating gingerbread houses, breakfast with Santa, shopping for children and adults, as well as opportunities to bid on decorated Christmas trees and wreaths. WANT TO GO? $5 and up. 203-869-1979. 501auctions.com/jlg.

Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’

WHEN: Nov. 18-20, Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2pm and 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Shubert Theater, 247 College St., New Haven AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Charles Dickens’ story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge captures all the warmth, goodwill, and memories of the holiday season. WANT TO GO? $43 and up. 203-562-5666. shubert.com. 36

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Nov. 25–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.

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion’s Holiday Exhibit

WHEN: Nov. 25–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.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Pre-K Zumba FREE

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 4, 11am-12pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3-5 WHAT: In this interactive and easy-to-follow Latin-inspired class, children dance to the music and rhythms of other countries. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Making at the Barnes & Noble Mini Maker Faire FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 6, 1:30-4:30pm WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 1076 Post Road E., Westport AGES: All

Movie Theater Thursdays: ‘American Girl: Lea to the Rescue’ FREE

WHAT: Join the Westport Library MakerSpace Team for a day of making. WANT TO GO? 203-221-7955.

US Army Field Band and Men’s Chorus FREE

WHEN: Monday, Nov. 7, 7pm WHERE: The Palace Theater, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford AGES: All WHAT: The U.S. Army Field Band includes four performing components: the Concert Band, the Soldiers’ Chorus, the Jazz Ambassadors, and The Volunteers. WANT TO GO? 203-325-4466. stamfordcenterforthearts.org.

Movement and Dance for Little Ones FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 14: Mondays, 11-11:30am WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children and their caregivers are invited to join a fun time of moving, grooving, jumping, shaking, singing, and playing instruments. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

6th Annual Young Choreographers Festival

WHEN: Monday, Nov. 28, 2-3:45pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Born for adventure, Lea Clark heads deep into the Brazilian rainforest, where her most exciting story awaits. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

‘Born to Be Wild’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: call, text, or go online for IMAX show times 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: Sunday, Nov. 20, 5:30pm WHERE: Palace Theater, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Dancers are given an opportunity to explore their creativity by choreographing original dance numbers, to be showcased at the event. WANT TO GO? $28; $17 for children younger than 13. 203-325-4466. stamfordcenterforthearts.org.

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.

Itsy Bitsy Playgroup FREE

‘Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean’

WHEN: Nov. 2-30, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Temple Sholom, 300 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich AGES: 2 and younger, adult WHAT: Led by an early childhood and music specialist, moms and their babies bond during music time, gross motor play, and more. WANT TO GO? 203-869-7191. templesholom.com.

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. ››

Day After Thanksgiving Movies: ‘Finding Dory’ FREE

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 25, 10:15am-12pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Enjoy watching the sequel to Pixar’s Finding Nemo. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Day After Thanksgiving Movies: ‘The Jungle Book 2’ FREE

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 25, 2-3:45pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3 and older WHAT: When Mowgli wanders back to the wild for some swinging fun, he soon finds the man-eating tiger Shere Khan is lurking in the shadows and planning his revenge. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org. Fairf ieldParent 37

AGES: 2 and younger WHAT: The emphasis is on books, with some songs and toy time. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Pajamas, Birthdays & Shabbat FREE

ONCE UPON A TIME! Mother and Daughter Book Club FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 5, 3-4pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5-8, adult WHAT: In this session, read Kate DiCamillo’s Flora and Ulysses about a very intelligent girl and a very interesting squirrel, with a lot of heart and humor along the way. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Ambler Farm Reads FREE

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 18, 5:30pm WHERE: Temple Sholom, 300 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy a Friday night Shabbat filled with ruach (spirit), singing, dancing, and stroytelling. Plus, celebrate November birthdays. Children can wear pajamas. WANT TO GO? 203-869-7191. templesholom.com.

Teddy Bear Picnic FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 22, 11-11:30am WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Bring your own teddy bear and enjoy teddy-bearific stories, songs, and crafts. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

SMARTY PANTS

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2:15-3pm WHERE: Ambler Farm, 257 Hurlbutt St., Wilton AGES: 2-4, adult WHAT: Children and their caregivers meet at Ambler Farm to enjoy theme-based stories as well as a nature walk. Be sure to bring a library card. WANT TO GO? 203-834-1143. amblerfarm.org.

Young Adult Lit Fest FREE

Ready Readers FREE

Electricity Exhibit

WHEN: Through Nov. 14: Mondays, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children will hear stories, watch short book films, and participate in fun activities and crafts. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Terrific Tales for Twos and Three FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 15: Tuesdays, 10:15-10:45am WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 2-3 WHAT: Children sing songs, listen to stories, and enjoy playtime together while building literacy and social skills. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Books for Babies FREE

WHEN: Thorugh Nov. 16: Wednesdays, 10:15-10:45am WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 2 and younger WHAT: There will be singing, playing, and enjoying gentle stories geared for babies. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Wonderful Ones and Twos FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 16: Wednesdays, 11-11:30am WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 38

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 5, 9:30am-12pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Meet the authors of The Loose Ends List, The Weight of Zero, The Girl Who Fell, and The Mystery of Hollow Places as they discuss their inspirations. WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org. WHEN: Through Nov. 6: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich AGES: All WHAT: Electricity brings the science and history of electricity to life through engaging hands-on interactives including Plasma Tubes, Jumping Rings, Solenoid, and Jacob’s Ladder. This exhibit, developed by The Franklin Institute, will even show how your own body can become a battery. WANT TO GO? $7; $6 children; free for children younger than 5. 203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Afternoons at the Bruce: Little Landscapes

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 8, 1-3pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich AGES: 5-10 WHAT: Workshops explore the museum’s collections and exhibitions. WANT TO GO? $25. 203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Mysterious Book Society FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 8, 4:30pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Discuss The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan. Register online. WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

Let’s Make Something! Building with Blocks FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 12, 2-3pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton

AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Using the concept of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math), take part in an hour of creating in the Children’s Library. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

Volcanoes Erupt

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 12, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Trumbull Nature and Arts Center, 7115 Main St., Trumbull AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn all about volcanoes and what makes their lava flow. Make and bring home your own volcano. WANT TO GO? $20 per child. 203-452-4421. trumbullnatureandartscenter.org.

Science Sunday: In the Footsteps of Dinosaurs

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 20, 1-3pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Participants will explore simple science concepts and subjects while partaking in fun, kid-friendly experiments, projects, and crafts 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.

KINDNESS CRUSADERS

Bruce Beginnings FREE

Closer to Our Community: Aquarium Coat Drive Weekend

WHEN: Nov. 1-29, Tuesdays, 11-11:45am and 1-1:45pm WHERE: Bruce Museum Seaside Center, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Explore the museum’s collections through picture books and hands-on activities. Topics include Into the Woods, Seeing Sculptures, Wigwam Ways, Little Lands, and Dinosaur Roar. WANT TO GO? 203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

EverWonder Experience

WHEN: Nov. 1-30, Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sundays, 11am-5pm WHERE: EverWonder Children’s Museum, 31 Pecks Lane, Newtown AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Hands-on exhibits and programming spark imagination in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. WANT TO GO? $7. 203-364-4009. everwondermuseum.org.

STEM for Kids FREE

WHEN: Nov. 15-Dec. 20, Tuesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore, experiment, build, and just have fun with science, technology, engineering, and math. Each week will be a different topic. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

WHEN: Nov. 5-6, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk AGES: All WHAT: Donate new or gently used coats, gloves, or boots and receive $5 off children’s admission. Donations will go to the Open Door Shelter of Norwalk. 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.

Volunteer Expo for Grades 6-12 FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 10, 4-6pm WHERE: Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Teens meet representatives from local organizations to get involved with volunteering. WANT TO GO? 203-291-4800. westportlibrary.org.

Destroy Your Hard Drive

WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 19, 10am-4pm WHERE: Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton AGES: All WHAT: Let Wilton Library’s Robotics team take care of your old computer as a team fundraiser. They’ll destroy your hard-drive while you wait. WANT TO GO? $20 per computer. 203-762-3950. wiltonlibrary.org.

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.

Coming up next month: DEC. 4: Family Day: Dinosaurs! at the Bruce Museum, Greenwich DEC. 10: Polar Express Pajama Party at Maritime Aquarium, Norwalk DEC. 18: A Very Electric Christmas at Westport Country Playhouse, Westport

Fairf ieldParent 39

WHERE-TO GUIDE

Ice-Skating

nymetroparents.com/where-to

›› Research by Jonathan Perry and Kathryn Sheridan

Time to lace up your skates and practice your figure eights! Winter is upon us and local rinks are ready to have you on the ice. Whether you’re just learning to skate or a total pro, ice-skating is fun for the whole family. Plus, if you don’t land that jump you’ve been working on, you can always cheer up with a cup of cocoa at many ice rink concession stands. As always, call ahead to verify hours and prices before your ice-skating outing. Hours: Year-round: Hours vary, check the website. Price: $12; $10 children ages 12 and younger; $6.50 skate rental; $8 skate aids for children ages 6 and younger ($5 deposit required) Stamford Twin Rinks 1063 Hope St., Stamford 203-968-9000; 203-321-1516 stamfordtwinrinks.com Hours: Year-round: Monday, 9am-1:45pm; Tuesday, 10:30am-1:45pm; Wednesday, 9am-1:30pm; Thursday, 9-11:45am; Friday, 9am-1:45pm and 8-10pm; Saturday, 12:30-2pm; Sunday, 12:30-2pm. Price: $9; $10 Friday night skating; $4.50 skate rental. Preferred customer discount cards available.

Indoor Rinks

Danbury Ice Arena 1 Independence Way, Danbury 203-794-1704 danburyice.com Hours: Year-round: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 11am-2pm; Wednesday, 11am-2pm; Friday, 11am-2pm and DJ Teen Night for ages 13 and older, 8:30-10:30pm; Saturday, 1:10-3:10pm; Sunday, 2:30-4:30pm. Schedule is subject to change, please check website. Price: $9; $7 for children 12 and younger; $6 seniors; $4 skate rental; $4 helmet rental. DJ Skate on Fridays: $10 Darien Ice Rink 55 Old Kings Highway N., Darien 203-655-8251 darienicerink.com Hours: Year-round: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 9:50-11:50am and 12-2pm; Wednesday and Friday, 12-2pm; Sunday, 1-2:50pm. Schedule subject to change, check the website for updates. Price: $7; $6 children; $5 seniors; $4 skate rental.

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink Sue Merz Way off Sherman Avenue, Greenwich 203-531-8560; greenwichct.org Hours: Monday, 12-1:30pm; Tuesday, 12-1:30pm, 6:30-7:45pm, and adults-only skate 7:45-9pm; Wednesday, 12-1:30pm and 3:30-5pm; Thursday, 12-1:30pm; Friday, 12-1:30pm, 3:30-5pm, and 7:309pm; Saturday-Sunday, 2-4pm. Price: Proof of Greenwich residency is required for admission. A Greenwich resident may bring a non-resident as a guest. $8/$10 guest; $6 children ages 5-15/$8 guest; free for ages 65 and older ($8 guest) and children younger than 4. Fairfield Ice Academy 85 Mill Plain Road (Building J), Fairfield 203-254-8399 fairfieldiceacademy.com Hours: Year-round. Hours vary, check the website. Price: $7; $5 skate rental; $10 Friday night teen disco 7:45pm. Sports Center of Connecticut 784 River Road, Shelton 203-929-6500; sportscenterct.com

Terry Conners Ice Rink Cove Island Park, 1125 Cove Road, Stamford 203-977-4728; tcrink.com Hours: Year-round: Monday and Wednesday, 10am-2:30pm; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 11:30am-2:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 12:20-1:50pm. Check website for changes to the schedule. Price: $8; $6 children and students 18 and younger; free for seniors; $4 skate rental; $4 training aids. Multi-use discount card available for residents only. Winter Garden Ice Arena 111 Prospect Ridge, Ridgefield 203-438-4423; wintergardenarena.com Hours: September-May: Monday-Friday, 10am-2pm. Starting Thanksgiving Sundays, 2:20-3:30pm. Beginning in November, there will be Friday Disco Nights for $10 from 8:50-9:50pm. Price: $8; $5 children; free for children younger than 3; $4 skate rental; $5 helmet rental. Wonderland of Ice 123 Glenwood Ave., Bridgeport 203-576-8110; wonderlandofice.com Hours: Year-round: Monday-Friday, 11am-

2:30pm; Saturday, 2:30-4:30pm; Sunday, 2-4pm. Schedule is subject to change. See website for monthly updates. Price: $7; $5 children ages 12 and younger; $5 skate rental; $5 skate aid rental.

Westchester County, NY Outdoor Rinks

Ebersole Ice Rink Delfino Park, 110 Lake St., White Plains 914-422-1390; 914-422-1348 ebersoleicerink.com Hours: Wednesday, 12-2pm; Thursday, 12-2pm; Friday, 3-5pm and 8-10pm; Saturday, 1:15-4:30pm and 8:30-10:15pm (adults only); Sunday, 1-5pm. Price: $10 adults; $8 children 18 and younger; $5 seniors; $5 skate rental.

Discount Cards for 12 sessions) and season passes available.

Price: $8 adults and children; $5 seniors. $4 skate rental.

The Ice Hutch 655 Garden Ave., Mount Vernon 914-699-6787; 914-668-1165 icehutch.com Hours: Year-round. Call for weekly schedule. Through Oct. 31: Tuesday, 3-5pm, and Saturday, 1-2:30pm. Schedule updated two months in advance; November and December schedule available end of October.

Westchester Skating Academy 91 Fairview Park Drive, Elmsford 914-347-8232; skatewsa.com Hours: Year-round: Monday, 11:40am-1:10pm and 1:30-4:30pm; Tuesday, 9:3011:30am and 1:30-3:30pm (Mondays and Tuesdays are subject to change during the

winter season); Wednesday, 9:3011:30am, 11:40am-1:10pm, and 1:30-4:30pm; Thursday, 9:3011:30am; Friday, 9:30-11:30am, 11:40am-1:20pm, 1:30-4:30pm, and 7:30-10pm; Saturday-Sunday, 1:30-4pm. Extended hours during holiday periods. Hours subject to change. Check website. Price: $11; $10 children ages 4-10; $6.25 seniors and children younger than 3; $4.50 skate rental.

Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/ice-skating

Indoor Rinks

EJ Murray Memorial Skating Center: Ice Skating Rink 348 Tuckahoe Road, Yonkers 914-377-6469; yonkersny.gov Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 9:30am-12:30pm; Friday, 9:30am-12:30pm and 8:3010:30pm; Saturday, 12:302:50pm and 8:30-10:30pm; Sunday, 12:30-2:50pm and 7:10-8:30pm. Extended hours during holiday periods; call for schedule. Price: $10; $4 skate rental. Hommocks Park Ice Rink 140 Hommocks Road, Larchmont 914-834-1069 hommocksparkicerink.org Hours: Oct. 1-April 15, 2017: Monday, 12:30-2:30pm; Tuesday and Thursday, 1-5:15pm; Friday, 1-5:15pm and 7:15-9:15pm; Saturday, 1-5:15pm; Sunday, 11am5:15pm (During October the Sunday Public Sessions end at 4pm). See website for special holiday weekday schedule. Price: $8.50; $7.50 children younger than 12; $6.50 seniors; $4.50 skate rental. Discount with resident ID card (and

Fairf ieldParent 41

SPECIAL NEEDS

All Grown Up

››

What to consider when your child with special needs turns 21—and is no longer a child. By Samantha Neudorf

s parents, we hope for our children to grow up and— difficult though it may be for us emotionally—fly the coop to live on their own as full-fledged, independent adults. But if you have a child with special needs, these concerns may run deeper, and that goal may seem elusive or even impossible. That is why parents should start to consider what happens to their children with special needs, no matter how young they may be, well before they turn 21. The first thing to consider is what your child with special needs will do after completing high school. Will she go to college? Will he attend a vocational school? Will she live on her own? These are all conversations you should be having now. Here are some points to consider when planning the future for your child with special needs.

Obtaining Guardianship

If your child has health issues, you may want to consider applying for guardianship, because once your child with special needs turns 18, you as the parent may not have access to his health care information because of HIPAA: the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Under HIPAA, patients older than 18 have their own rights to privacy for their medical records, meaning parents or caregivers do not automatically have the right to this information. One way to work around this, if your child is unable to take care of himself,

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

is to obtain guardianship—which means, essentially, that you will retain legal responsibility for your child even though he is of age to be considered an adult. Bernard Krooks is an attorney and founding partner of Littman Krooks, a law firm that specializes in elder law and special-needs planning, with offices in Manhattan and White Plains, NY. Krooks advises that parents start to apply for guardianship by the time their child is 17 years old because the process could take longer than six months. The guardianship process involves petitioning the court. Parents begin by filling out an application to certify that their child does indeed have a disability, and a doctor must submit a form to verify this. The application must also specify why the child with special needs is not able to care for himself. Then there will be a hearing in front of a judge, which is why it may be valuable to hire a special needs attorney to assist in the process. Krooks also suggests setting up a special needs trust to create a supplementary source of funds to pay for everyday necessities that government benefits will not cover, such as services that are not covered by Medicaid. “The reality is what the government gives you is decreasing due to fiscal constraints,” Krooks says, “so it’s very important to have a special needs trust to pay for things that help improve the quality of life of somebody with disabilities.”

Pursuing Higher Education

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, children are entitled to free and appropriate public education by federal law, and schools must provide them with an education through 12th grade. The IDEA covers 13 kinds of disabilities, including autism, deafness, orthopedic impairment, and visual impairment. As a part of the IDEA, children with special needs will receive an Individualized Education Program, which is a document that specifies what your child’s disability is and how the school will support her. The IEP will specify how the child is doing in school, educational goals, and transition planning to prepare him for life after high school. In order for a child to move on to college, she will need a regents diploma if she went to high school in New York, and will have to undergo psychoeducational testing to analyze the mental processes that might affect her educational performance. Once a child takes this test, he can apply to college and the school will provide the proper accommodations when taking exams. Lara Bakshi, special needs and special education attorney and founder of Bakshi Law in Manhattan and West Islip, NY, strongly advises that, if they are able to, children with special needs either receive a higher education or pursue a vocational program. “The most important thing for a child with special needs is to be able to interact with their peers that are not special,” Bakshi says. Bakshi suggests that a child with special needs attend a small liberal arts college because it will be more structured and less overwhelming than a large university. If he decides to attend a vocational school, programs such as the Boards of Cooperative Educational Services, which has 37 locations across New York state, are popular choices. There are programs, such as Career and Technical Education to learn how to operate different machineries. Littman Krooks, among other companies, employs people with special needs in its office to help with administrative tasks that include making photocopies, filing paperwork, and helping with shredding and scanning documents.

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Deciding Where to Live

The other big question to consider is where your child with special needs should live because she will technically no longer be a child after turning 21. Krooks says that parents tend to keep their children at home, but the problem is it’s not preparing them to live independently. “Statistically speaking, the parents will predecease the child,” Krooks says. “Years ago, children with special needs did not have a normal, typical life expectancy, but now many kids, even with Down syndrome and other special needs, are able to live a full or close to full life expectancy.” Parents should therefore consider helping their child with spcial needs find a place to live in proximity to his doctors, he says. Krooks suggests finding a specialist who has worked in the area for a long time and to establish a relationship with the doctor throughout the child’s lifetime. “The sooner you plan for this, the fewer things that you’ll be unprepared for along the way,” Krooks says.

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EVENTS

SPECIAL NEEDS

Taking a Child with Autism to the Movies ›› Five tips from a mom who’s been there. By Dana Greenberg

y 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. When we walked past the movie theater and he said he wanted to go see a movie, I got so excited. It was time to plan for this event. Challenges I knew we would face included the darkness, the loud sounds, sitting still, and staying quiet. This is what I did to prepare him and what I’d advise any parent of a child with autism to do to get your child ready to see a movie in the theater: Pick the right movie and prepare for it: I did research to see what was playing that would be appropriate and keep his interest for as long as possible. I looked to see what the running times were as well—the shorter the better for him. Once I found the right movie, we watched the trailer a bunch of times. We talked about it for a few days before actually going. I pointed out any ads I saw for that movie on top of taxis or at bus stops. I tried my best to keep the title in his head, to keep him exciting about going. Plan snacks beforehand: If your child is a popcorn lover, like mine is, this is an easy one! I also brought a few others for back up. Ask your child what he would like to eat—let him be part of choosing so there will be no surprises. Plan to bring everything inside with you, so once you are watching the movie you will not need to get up out of your seats. I had water ready, also, and plenty of napkins.

Choose the best time: Think about what time of day would be easiest for your child. For me, it was the first show on a Sunday morning, with the hope of a small audience. Before heading over, we ran around in the park to let out some energy. I was hoping this would make it easier for him to sit longer. Skip the previews: We thought that for his first time at the theater, it would be a good idea to skip the previews. We arrived just in time for the main event. That cut approximately 15 minutes off the sitting time. If necessary, leave the moment the movie finishes instead of sitting through the credits. This also helps you avoid any crowds at the end. Do whatever you need to limit the sitting-still and staying-quiet time. Ease into the theater: We started out standing in the back of the theater, not even being able to see the screen at first. I let my son guide me about what he felt comfortable doing. After standing for a few minutes, we turned the corner where the screen became visible. After standing in that spot for a few more minutes, my son walked over and sat down in a chair. We were in! I did not know if this day would ever come, but I could not have been more pleased with how it went. He sat beautifully and watched the entire movie. I think the prep really paid off. Not only was I proud of him, but I am so happy we now have another activity we can add to our list.

Dana Greenberg is a mom of twins living in Manhattan. Dana’s site theautismclub.com was created as a way to connect moms who have kids with special needs, like her son Jack—who has autism—and offer them a space to tell their stories.

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls, NY 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com; dfalk@camphuntington.com Camp Huntington is a coed, residential program for children (ages 6-22) with autism and related learning and developmental needs. Our summer and weekend camp programs maximize a child’s potential, and locate and develop strengths and hidden abilities. Campers enjoy fun-filled days while learning practical social and life skills. Our unique program of adaptive, therapeutic recreation combines key elements that encourage progress: structured programming, nurturing care, a positive setting, and academic instruction to meet IEP goals.

Children’s Therapy and Learning Center

2228 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 201, Fairfield 203-908-4433; childtherapycenter.com Children’s Therapy and Learning Center is Fairfield’s leading pediatric clinic offering integrative and collaborative care for children and their families. Services provided include occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, academic tutoring, social skills instruction and groups, handwriting instruction and groups, and summer learning camp. Age appropriate interventions for infants and toddlers, young children, school-aged children, adolescents, and young adults are provided by our licensed and certified professional team. Our staff is comprised of therapists, teachers, consultants, and medical assistants. Most major insurances accepted.

St. Vincent’s Special Needs Services

95 Merritt Blvd., Trumbull 203-386-2715; stvincentsspecialneeds.org St. Vincent’s Special Needs Services is a trusted provider of lifelong education and therapeutic services. Our special education school for children, ages 3-21, is an alternative placement option for children with developmental disabilities, special health care needs, and autism spectrum disorders. Physical, occupational, speech-language, and aquatic therapies are all offered as part of each student’s individualized education plan. Parent education and transition support services, adult day and work services, and residential placements are also available.

Winston Preparatory School-CT

57 W. Rocks Road, Norwalk 203-229-0465; winstonprep.edu Winston Preparatory School is an innovative day school for students in fourth through 12th grades with learning differences such as dyslexia, nonverbal learning disabilities, and executive functioning difficulties. We do this through a process that understands each student, individualizes a program to meet their needs, and that builds a powerful sense of community. We call this process the Continuous Feedback System. This system is designed to deeply understand each student’s specific learning profile including their strengths and potential.

Yale Child Study Center - Autism Biomarkers Consortium for Clinical Trials (ABC-CT) 40 Temple St., New Haven 203-785-6108; asdbiomarkers.org; abc-ct@yale.edu Is your child on the autism spectrum? Play an important role in research by having your child participate in a free and confidential study. If you have a child who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, Yale has clinical studies available that examine your child’s social, communication, and emotional skills. This research will lead to new methods to develop, track, and assess treatments in ASD. You will receive a psychoeducational evaluation describing your child’s development over six months. Studies are approved by the Yale Human Investigation Committee-1509016477.

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Fairf ieldParent 45

Planning for the Worst

››

Teaching toddlers and preschoolers how to handle emergencies. By Melissa Kagan

o your little ones know what to do in the event of an emergency? If the answer is no, it’s time to equip them with some basic skills so they can manage worst-case scenarios independently and confidently. While it’s a topic many parents avoid because they don’t want to scare their toddlers and preschoolers, readying your family for a fire, serious injury, or any other emergency is one of the most important lessons you can teach them. Most small children can be taught to handle the basics of emergency situations, but the first step is to define what an actual emergency is. Generally speaking, a problem requires the attention of a parent or trusted adult, while an actual emergency warrants the assistance of police, emergency medical, or firefighter services. Giving examples will make it easier to establish which situations fall under which category. A fire in the house or an unconscious family member qualifies as emergencies. A stolen bike, a scraped knee, or a lost pet do not.

Calling 911

The first step is to teach your kids how to dial 911. You can unplug a landline and teach even a 3-year-old to dial the numbers.

November 2016 | fairfieldparent.com

And while you may think your kid is an expert at mobile devices, show them how to use a cellphone. “Many cellphones also have an emergency button that can be used to call for help,” explains Michelle Tween, director of early childhood education at The Chapel School in Bronxville, NY. It’s also important to stress to kids that they should only dial 911 for emergencies. “Kids of all ages need to realize that police or fire trucks will arrive, even if the kids call just out of curiosity,” says Barbara Schori, director of the Ridge Street Country School in Rye Brook, NY. Also, prepare youngsters for any questions they will be asked by an emergency operator, such as “Where are you calling from?” or “What is your emergency?” It’s natural to be nervous when urgent situations arise, but being prepared for these questions will help. “A small child may forget his or her own address,” Tween says, “but calls can be traced, so if they do forget, they will still get the help they need.” Paul J. Donahue, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and founder and director of Child Development Associates in Scarsdale, NY, recommends telling kids ahead of time that the operator is there to help them and that they can trust the voice at the other end of the line. “This will help little kids to remain calm so that they will be able to stay on the line for as long as the operator needs to them to.”

Take the Fear Out of Situations Ahead of Time

Loud sirens, smoke alarms, and firefighters in uniform are all examples of things that can be very scary to young children. Tween recommends taking the time to familiarize toddlers and preschoolers with them ahead of time. “Take a family trip to your local fire department and show them the equipment the firefighters will be wearing or holding,” she says. “This will give them a frame of reference should a fire actually occur and the fire department shows up.” This would also be a good time to have a discussion about the Stop, Drop, and Roll and Stay Low and Roll techniques. Tween also recommends intentionally setting off fire alarms and the carbon monoxide detectors in your house during a family meeting so that your kids can hear what they sound like in a controlled environment. (If your alarms connect directly with the local fire department, don’t forget to disable them beforehand, or else you will have real-life firefighters at your door in minutes.) “These sounds can be very loud and scary so you want your kids to be familiar with what they sound like ahead of time in order to reduce panic or anxiety,” she says. You can further involve toddlers and preschoolers by asking them to help you change batteries in fire detection devices and assemble emergency supply kits. Create and practice your escape plan with your family from every room in the house. Practice staying low to the floor and checking for hot doors using the back of your hand. It’s just like a routine school fire drill—but in your home. “Involving your kids will empower them,” Tween says.

Provide Reassurance

It’s easy to become so wrapped up in teaching small children the basics of emergency preparedness you forget how easily overwhelmed they can become. While you’re teaching them how to handle an emergency, make sure you also explain they are safe and protected. Let them know these things probably won’t happen, but it’s your job to make sure they know what to do in a worst-case scenario. Barbara Klein, director of the Huguenot Nursery School in Pelham, NY, runs emergency drills during the school year, but it is done without frightening her students. “Our goal is to be prepared for any event, but to keep it low key for the children,” she says. “I feel strongly that at this age the children should not have to worry about ‘what might happen’ and to feel safe knowing the teachers will always look out for them.”

First Aid

Emergencies happen, but it isn’t always the child who needs emergency care. If a parent or caregiver is injured, it may be the child who must administer basic care until emergency medical services arrives. For this reason, children should be taught basic first aid. If a child finds herself with an incapacitated caregiver, her own survival may depend on knowing what steps to take. Her sharp mind is limited only by her physical strength and emotional state. Helping feels good and soothing someone feels important and grown-up. Learning a few first-aid principles does more than prepare kids for the worst: It also helps them develop their compassion, self-esteem, and sense of purpose. Here’s how to do it in an age-appropriate way: • Introduce basic first aid (treating scrapes and bruises) by using a doll.

• Videotape your child treating a friend’s mock injury and then review the tape with all of the children, asking what could have been done better or more safely. • Engage with their natural love of playing “doctor” by pretending to be their imaginary patient and telling them your symptoms. • Ham it up! Use ketchup for blood, white rags for bandages, socks stuffed inside clothing to indicate swelling. • Go through the first aid kit together, and have some extra bits of gauze, tape, and cotton balls on hand so your child can practice with real tools—smaller kids get a special thrill out of these materials. • Focus on emergencies your family is most likely to encounter such as someone who has epilepsy. Make sure your child is aware of the conditions and knows how to name them to emergency personnel. • Finally, remember part of our job as parents is to assure kids they never need to be a hero or overstep their abilities. Make sure children know their first and most important job is to stay safe themselves. Melissa Kagan is the former editor-in-chief of the now-defunct lifetimemoms. com. She is currently a freelance writer whose work has been featured in Mommy Poppins, Westchester Magazine, and Westchester Family. She lives in Pelham, NY, with her husband and two children.

MORE NON-THREATENING IDEAS TO GET YOUR KIDS READY FOR EMERGENCIES • B rainstorm words that relate to emergency preparedness and create flashcards to review and discuss with your child. • Encourage children to prepare a skit or role-play how your family should respond to an emergency such as a fire in the house. • Preschoolers may find it easier to use songs to learn your phone number. Tunes such as “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” lend themselves to this exercise. • Break out the glitter glue, scissors, and construction paper to have your child write out important phone numbers in a decorative fashion.

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Meet the Health Care

PROFESSIONAL

To be in this section, call 914-397-0200 or email nympads@davlermedia.com 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

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.

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.

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.

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Landmark Preschool

Redding (Georgetown) Campus: 20 Portland Ave., Redding (20 months to 5s) Kimberly Swabsin: 203-544-8393 Ridgefield Campus: 223 W. Mountain Road Landmark Preschool (1s-4s) Ridgefield Academy (2s to Eighth Grade) David Suter: 203-894-1800 x112 ridgefieldacademy.org Westport Campus: 11 Burr Road, Westport (2s-5s) Gretchen Sabek: 203-226-6982 landmarkpreschool.org Landmark Preschool is an independent preschool. Please call to arrange a tour of the Westport campus.

Temple Israel Carol Shoke Early Childhood Center

Nancy Isaacs, director 14 Coleytown Road, Westport 203-227-1293 tiwestport.org To schedule an appointment to visit our school, please contact our director.

Winston Preparatory School-CT

57 W. Rocks Road, Norwalk 203-229-0465 winstonprep.edu Come to an open house to learn more about our educational philosophy and tour our school. Visit our website to sign up: winstonprep.edu/apply-now.

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