Np 0318 by City Guide NY

LongIsland NASSAU EDITION

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM PARENTS.COM MARCH 2018

Camp Planner! • How Camp Preps Kids for College • Find Your Child’s Dream Camp NEW! Camps at a Glance • Transportation • Lunch • Flexible Hours • More

Ax Your Taxes Deductions Even Smart Parents Miss

End Bad Behavior In ONE Surprising Step

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

LongIslandParent

SUMMER GROWTH SPURT Usdan is an award-winning day camp for students ages 4-18 to explore music, dance, theater, visual arts, sports and more on our Long Island campus in the woods. JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, March 18 or Sunday, April 15. Reservations required. Visit usdan.org/visit.

FOR $100 OFF NEW STUDENT TUITION USE PROMO CODE: NASSAU

ANNIVERSARY SEASON

WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY 1-844-824-2778 | USDAN.ORG #50YEARSOFU

LongIslandParent

contents table of

march 2018

54 36

camp

How to Raise a Take-Charge Teen

Help your kid learn to make his own decisions instead of just following the crowd.

Family Fun in Manhattan

Two can’t-miss, family-friendly events in NYC, plus two venues to visit to make the most of your day

18 How Camp Prepares Kids for College 22 Camp Directory

33 Camps-at-a-Glance Chart

Spring Clean It!

Places in your home you should be cleaning on a regular basis, but likely aren’t

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 5 Things Parents Should Know About Bad Behavior 12 Fear Not, Little One 52 Sleep Training 101 54 How to Raise a Take-Charge Teen 58 Party Central 60 Professional Services 62 Meet the Doctor 64 Open Houses 65 Advertisers’ Index 66 Quotables

14 Fake Fur Pom

46 Make Filing Less Taxing

36 Family Fun in Manhattan

48 Spring Clean It!

37 Family Activities Calendar

56 Top ‘o the Morning to Ya!

45 Spring into March

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› facebook.com/nymetroparents

10 End Bad Behavior

17 Camp Planner! 46 Ax Your Taxes

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

LongIslandParent

raising kids editor’s note

MARCH 2018 • Vol.9 • No.10

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Deborah Skolnik MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva

Springing Forward— Confidently

ou can feel it in the air: Spring is on its way. Sure, we may still be stepping around slush puddles, but soon enough we’ll be soaking up sunshine, and the ground—well, outside Manhattan, at least—will be a gorgeous sea of green. No matter how many times you’ve experienced this change of seasons, it always seems like a miracle. If you’re a new parent, you may be praying for another miracle: a good night’s sleep. Well, believe it or not, that too is possible. Just read Bethany Braun-Silva’s article, “Sleep Training 101,” on page 52—it examines popular techniques you can use to get your baby to settle down peacefully each evening and minimize those middle-ofthe-night tears (his and yours). It also explains why you shouldn’t despair if your baby backslides a little from time to time. Over on page 54, Christina Vercelletto’s article, “How to Raise a Take-Charge Teen,” will help you guide your older kid through an amazing transformation too—one that turns her from a wishy-washy crowd-follower into someone who makes her own decisions, regardless of what her friends do. Of course, spring isn’t just bunnies and daffodils; there’s important work to be done. For starters, you’ll need to finish your taxes (sorry!). Don’t file them until you’ve read “Make Filing Less Taxing” on page 46—we share savvy pro tips that could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, a big help when you’re raising a family. Spring cleaning is another chore many of us tackle right about now, and we’ll show you how to make sure you really do the job right. Just turn to page 48 for Katelin Walling’s article, “Spring Clean It!”. We asked the experts to point out all the nooks and crannies that even the most enthusiastic housecleaners (not that we know any of those!) tend to overlook. Once you’re done de-griming them, you can rest easy knowing that your house is deep-down clean for you and your kids. Just as soon as you’ve gotten your house ready for warmer weather, you’ll start thinking about summertime. Have you made your child’s camp plans yet? Starting your search now will give you the time to find a program that really resonates with your kid’s personality and brings out his full potential. Read Stacey Ebert’s wonderful piece on page 18, “How Camp Prepares Kids for College,” to learn how a positive summer experience can help your child flourish not just now, but years down the road. Then check out our amazing new camp chart on page 33. We know you’re busy, so we made it easy for you to scan different camps’ services and offerings at a glance. With so many great choices listed, you’re bound to find the ideal program. It’s just one more reason to “spring forward” with plenty of energy and optimism. Enjoy!

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan, Westchester); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Cintia Feliz, Caitlin Sawicki To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents

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Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson, EJ Morales-Gomez, Linda Pierce Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Leonard Porter, Christopher Regalado DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan

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Deborah Skolnik Editorial Director

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CEO: David L. Miller General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239

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

ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf

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

Patients will always see Dr. Elbaz to ensure consistency and build trust.

Dr. Rania Elbaz, DDS Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Columbia Dental School Graduate

The Personal Attention Your Child Needs and Deserves. Participating with most major insurance plans. Comprehensive Dental Care for Infants, Children, Adolescents and those with Special Needs.

Our office is a warm and kid-friendly environment that our patients look forward to visiting! • Evening and Saturday appointments available • 24-hour emergency coverage for our patients • Sedation available when needed

1756A Merrick Avenue • Merrick • 516-547-1997 www.MerrickPediatricDentistry.com

Conveniently Located less than a mile south of the Southern State Parkway

LongIslandParent

raising kids new places, new programs

Courtesy Future Star

Campers participating in Future Stars’ photog raphy and videography sessions will learn digital pho to and video skills usi the Adobe Creative Sui ng te.

ic Dentistry

Who: Future Stars Summer Camps at Old Westbury and Farmingdale What’s New: Web design and coding for third through ninth grades, and photography and videography for fifth to 10th grades. Children in the web design and coding programs will learn web development and coding concepts using Java Script. These programs will be available July 23-Aug. 3 in SUNY College at Old Westbury’s computer lab. Children in photography and videography will film a variety of subjects around Farmingdale State College, including sports programs and special events. These programs will be available July 16-27. The programs were added this year in part because of their popularity, according to David Stapleton, camp director. Want More Info: SUNY College at Old Westbury, 223 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury; 516-262-5008; and Farmingdale State College, 2350 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale; 516-531-6242; fscamps.com

Day Camps in Farmingdale and Old Westbury to Offer New Programming

Courtesy Shinin

Who: Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. What’s New: The Manhasset office, which opened in October. The full-service pediatric practice treats children of all ages. The dental team aims to create a fun and friendly environment for kids where parents are encouraged to be in the exam rooms with their children. “We are caring and gentle. My goal is for children to not be afraid of the dentist. We strive to make every visit exciting and fun for kids!” says Rod Stern, D.D.S., owner of the practice. “My staff and I are great with kids because we really love what we do.” Want More Info: 444 Community Drive, Manhasset; 516-4875437; shingsmilespediatricdentistry.com

g Smiles Pediatr

Pediatric Dental Office Opens in Manhasset

ironment s to create a fun env iatric Dentistry aim and games. s, TV ds, Shining Smiles Ped iPa , ms d treatment roo for kids with theme

Who: The Green Vale School Summer Camp What’s New: Kelly Flink, who is in her first year as the school’s director of early childhood, will partner with Cami Gallagher, camp director, to bring programming for young children to the school’s camp. The summer camp programs for 2-year-olds include Mommy & Me, Little Naturalists, and Splash & Laugh. “This is a great opportunity for families from Long Island who are looking for a day camp experience for their two-year-old,” says Alexis Morledge, director of admissions. Camps will be held on The Green Vale School’s 40-acre campus, and members of the school’s faculty will act as counselors. Want More Info: 250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville; 516-6212420; greenvaleschool.org 8

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy The Green Vale School

Day Camp in Old Brookville Welcomes New Early Childhood Director, Adds Programming

Children enrolled in The Green Vale School’s summer camp programs will have opportunities for outdoor play.

A Y D C S I AM S A P O A

zi ma

umm ng S

e rs . . . L i f e l on g

Frie

Tully Park at Michael J. Tully Park Specialized Early Start Program: Ages 3-5

Low child/staff ratio • Early childhood experienced staff • Ready for September enrichment Scheduling accommodates physical and creative needs of campers.

Traditional Day Camp: Ages 6-11

Teen Travel: Ages 12-14

Daily trips to museums, beaches, baseball games & amusement parks Overnight camp excursions & late-night socials!

Oasis Features: 8:30am-5:30pm + extended day • Hot Lunch Option • Flexible Enrollment: 2-8 weeks AC Transportation • Professional soccer stadium with turf field Baseball fields & Tennis Courts • Pool with water features & slide Special Events: Carnivals, Tie Dye, Scavenger Hunts, Color War, Day Trips

Join us for an info session on March 22nd at 7:00 pm in the Vending Machine Room.

As Close to Sleepaway Camp As You Can Get!

@oasisdaycamps

LongIslandParent

raising kids in the know

5 Things Parents Should Know About Bad Behavior ››

By Bethany Braun-Silva with Catherine Pearlman, Ph.D., LCSW

arenting is easy,” said no one ever. It involves dealing with endless laundry, poop, and stomach viruses, plus making lunches, grocery shopping, cleaning up messes, and much more. It sometimes can be a thankless job, but it’s the job for which we signed up. We parent out of love, and mostly, even with the work, it’s a joy. However, there is a lot of unpleasantness that isn’t an inevitable part of the job, namely dealing with kids’ whining, complaining, tantrums, and wheedling. These button-pushing, parentprovoking behaviors are mostly learned, but they can be unlearned in a flash. When that happens, parenting becomes less like a job and a lot more fun. Here, Catherine Pearlman, Ph.D., LCSW, author of Ignore It!: How Selectively Looking The Other Way Can Decrease Behavioral Problems and Increase Parenting Satisfaction, shares five important points parents should know about kids’ annoying and attention-seeking behaviors.

“

1. Kids whine, complain, and negotiate all for one simple reason: because it works. Begging for an ice pop or complaining about having to eat broccoli tends to get the desired response. Either kids get to avoid something they don’t want to do, or they get something they desperately want, like another brownie or more screen time. If the behavior doesn’t produce these rewards, children will find other, more appropriate ways to behave. 2. Behavior that is reinforced will be repeated. Kids are smart cookies. Once they break the parenting code and figure out how to get more of what they want and less of

what they don’t, they will use these effective techniques to their advantage. Children aren’t deviant monsters; they are just learning from their parents how to work the system. If you knew what to do to get a free Frappuccino at Starbucks, wouldn’t you do it? 3. When parents change how they respond to a behavior, the behavior changes. The good news is children notice very quickly when their tried-and-true behaviors are no longer effective. If kids throw a tantrum but it gets them nothing, they decide it’s not worth it. When arguing and begging for more screen time produces no more time and no additional attention, kids give it up. 4. To avoid rewarding or reinforcing misbehavior, ignore it. Once you’ve said “no” to a pack of gum at Target or a balloon at the stationery store, ignore the whining and complaining. Also ignore it when your child tries to negotiate for fewer carrots at dinner, or burps for attention. Without any reward, kids will quickly drop these behaviors. Why would kids beg, whine, or negotiate if nothing comes of it? 5. Ignore the misbehavior, not the child. Kids still need attention, so give it to them, just not following misbehavior. Instead, catch them when they’re listening, being kind, or following directions, then reward them for those actions. An important caveat of ignoring misbehavior: Don’t ignore your child’s pain or anyone who is in pain as a result of your child’s behavior.

Catherine Pearlman, Ph.D., LCSW, is an assistant professor at Brandman University and the author of Ignore It!: How Selectively Looking The Other Way Can Decrease Behavioral Problems and Increase Parenting Satisfaction. Visit Dr. Pearlman’s website, thefamilycoach.com.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

• Comfortable Care for Kids of All Ages • Fun, Friendly, Doctor & Team • Parents Welcome In Treatment Rooms • No Mercury Fillings

Evening and Weekend Hours Available

• BPA-Free Fillings & Sealants

We Participate with most Insurance and Union Plans!

Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. Rod Stern, D.D.S. 444 Community Dr. Suite 201 Manhasset, NY 11030 (516) 487-5437 | www.sspdny.com LongIslandParent 11

raising kids voices

Fear Not, Little One

››

How my daughter’s journey from fearless to fearful (and back again) changed the way I parent. By Whitney C. Harris

was afraid of many things as a child. From thunder and lightning to E.T. and our neighbor’s dog, I always found something to freak out about. I was leery of department stores and getting lost in their maze-like clothing racks. I was so scared of the board game Operation that I had to wear earmuffs to mask the constant buzzing sound when my older sister played with her friends. I couldn’t even look at my father’s heavy-duty liquid soap bottle because the giant greasy hands on it were totally terrifying to me. This summer my daughter turned 2 years old, and as all the parenting literature promised, she started to develop some fears herself. Despite my own experience with this, I felt helpless and perplexed. Rather than a gradual introduction to shock and fright, we’ve been dealing with the sudden appearance of fears, some from seemingly nowhere. My once-fearless toddler started clinging to me if a dad entered the playground, and crying if strangers looked at her for too long in the grocery store. The “stranger danger” was short lived, but she still gets very irritable when unfamiliar men are around. My daughter still seemed fairly intrepid this summer, swimming (with assistance from her floaties!) in the Hudson River or socializing with a new playgroup—until the smoke alarm in her bedroom went off three times in one evening. From then on, bedtime, naptime, and anything within one hour of these sacred rituals became riddled with anxiety triggers. It would start with some clinginess during her pre-bed meal, then tears while I was cleaning up, which led to protests at going upstairs and reading books, then screaming “No beep beep!” until it erupted into a full-blown meltdown on her bedroom floor. It was impossible to stop and heartbreaking to witness. My brave little girl was completely distraught, and I felt powerless to comfort her. So I learned a slightly different kind of parenting, with plenty of listening and less talking, and more creative problem solving than usual. I soon realized that my daughter desperately wanted to talk about the “beep beep,” so

I gave her every opportunity to repeat the story of what happened that night. “Beep beep. Daddy fixed it. We go outside,” she would say over and over again, recounting how the alarm blared, my husband shut it off, and then we went outside to call our local fire department just to make sure there wasn’t any carbon monoxide setting off the alarm. She wanted to put Elmo stickers on the alarm, so I found our tallest stool and managed to stick a few around its perimeter on her bedroom ceiling. Then I started pointing out all the happy beeps that we hear throughout the day. The microwave, which means her breakfast sausage is ready! My phone alarm, which means it’s time to get ready for preschool! Or the “beep beep” of her grandmother’s car just parked in our driveway, which always means a fun, lollipop-fueled visit. We even tried an at-home version of art therapy, drawing a picture of her bedroom together, her crib surrounded by books and stuffed animals, and the all-important “beep beep” at the top right-hand corner, with Elmo stickers nearby, of course. Our journey from fearless to fearful and back again just goes to show that I’ll probably never parent the same exact kid or in the same exact ways two years in a row, and that’s a good thing because it helps both me and my daughter grow. The first year was all about patience (breast-feeding, sleep regressions, and teething, for starters), but the second year has been about becoming more flexible and nimble, always ready to meet her wherever she needs me. A few weeks ago, my daughter’s bedtime routine went back to normal. She stopped talking about the “beep beep” entirely. It fell off her list of hot topics, which currently includes pigs, birthdays (dates, cakes, songs, presents, all of it), and the names of all her friends’ baby brothers and sisters. But now, instead of screaming out from her crib in fear, she’s shouting out in anger. “Put my arm under the blankie! Put my arm under!” she demands with increasing frustration. It’s been a long, cold winter. But at least she’s not afraid of Jack Frost—yet.

Whitney C. Harris is a freelance writer and NYMetroParents’ Manhattan and Westchester calendar editor. She lives in Sleepy Hollow with her husband, a toddler, and a dog.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Greater Long Island Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re invited to join more than 20 greater Long Island private schools and hundreds of educators and parents for this annual, education-centered event. Private school representatives will be present to share information about their respective programs and answer questions.

Tuesday, April 17th

6:00 - 8:00 PM Chateau Briand in Carle Place 400 Old Country Rd., Carle Place, NY 11514

Participating

SCHOOLS

Pre-register: This event is free to all who attend, so spots will fill up quickly. For questions, or to register please visit LIPrivateSchoolFair.com or call 516.364.5414.

East Woods School Friends Academy Fusion Academy Woodbury - Long Island The Green Vale School Harbor Country Day School Harmondy Heights School The Knox School The Laurel Hill School Lawrence Woodmere Academy Long Island Lutheran Middle High School Portledge School

Sponsored by:

Ross School Sappo School Schechter School of Long Island Smithtown Christian School The Stony Brook School Valley Stream Christian Academy Vincent Smith School Waldorf School of Garden City Winston Preparatory School and more...

Fusion Academy is a revolutionary private middle and high school with the smallest class size possible: one student and one teacher per classroom. Scheduling and curriculum are personalized, students may enroll at any time, and no homework goes home. LongIslandParent 13

things to do

diy corner

Fake Fur Pom

Look at these and tell me you don’t want them! I can’t tell you how much joy I get from wearing these furry guys on my feet every day. If you don’t feel brave enough to wear them on your shoes, sew on a jump ring and attach a key-ring ﬁnding, or even sew one onto a hair elastic for a cute ponytail bobble. Whatever you do, just get them in your life!

Things you need Felt pen or a pencil Fake fur material Compass or large roll of tape as a template Scissors

Needle and strong thread Toy stuffing / wadding Small coin, 1 inch in diameter Small piece of felt 2 shoe clips Glue gun

Directions 1. Draw two circles on your fur material, roughly 4¾ inches in diameter—a full roll of sticky tape is a good size to draw round. 2. Cut out the circles with scissors and put one to one side. Thread your needle with a double length of thread, leaving a thread tail of 4 inches. Tack around the edge of the fur disc, using a running stitch. 3. When you get back to where you started, go back out the disc with the needle so now you have two tail ends next to each other. Hold the disc and pull the tail ends to ruche up the disc into a pouch.

4. Put a small amount of stuffing inside the pouch so it fills out, almost into a ball shape. You can also use your fur off-cuts for stuffing. 5. Pull the tail ends and tie a knot to close up the opening. 6. Thread a needle onto the tail ends and sew a few stitches to secure. Repeat steps 2-6 to make another pompom. 7. Place your small coin on the felt and draw round it to make two circles. Cut them out. Sew a shoe clip onto each felt disc. 8. Attach the back of each felt disc to the base of a pompom, using a glue gun. Hold in place until the glue dries. 9. Clip the pompoms to your favorite pair of shoes and get dancing! Excerpted with permission from Dress You Up by Rosy Nicholas, photography by Adam Laycock; published by Quadrille April 2017; RRP $19.99 hardcover.

Our party planner will work with you to plan everything from start to finish, to ensure that the guest of honor and his/her friends have a fun and memorable birthday party experience.

• Ice skating • Skate rental • Pizza • Soda, water or juice Birthday parties take place during one of our indoor open skate sessions (maximum of two hours), and are available for kids ages six and older.

Call 516-441-0070 to learn more. Deposit of $100 required to book a party.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

EARLY CHILDHOOD THROUGH MIDDLE SCHOOL

Inspired to Excel, to Lead, to Care

Superior academics and emphasis at every age on character education, athletics, and performing and visual arts lead our graduates to excel in the top secondary schools and colleges nationwide.

Week-Long Camps Lead by GVS Teachers

: e r plo

Robotics Little Naturalists Baseball Sewing 101

Robotics

20 Offerings; Choose Your Fun!

Cooking Summer STEAM Coding Rocketry Leadership

Week A: June 18-22 Week B: June 25-29 Pirates & Princesses Fun in the Sun USA Olympians ...and more!

greenvaleschool.org/camps LongIslandParent 15

THE BEST LESSONS LAST A LIFETIME. Eye Level’s individualized approach to education empowers students with the confidence to take on new challenges, setting them on the path to find success in Math, English and beyond.

· Individualized Instruction · Basic Thinking & Critical Thinking Math · Reading Comprehension & Vocabulary · Integrated Writing Program

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE www.eyelevelfranchise.com

Williston Park

SPECIAL OFFER

61 Hillside Avenue Williston Park, NY 11596 516-747-7700

*On registration fee only

$50 OFF

•Valid only at participating centers •New students only •Must present one coupon per student •Cannot be combined with other offers •Valid until 3/31/18

Bring in your nearly new kid’s stuff, and we’ll pay you cash on the spot for all items accepted

Shoes and Accessories

• Casual and Dress Shoes • Sleepwear

WE ACCEPT ALL SEASON CHILDREN’S APPAREL All equipment and toys must be less than 5 years old and not be recalled

Furniture

• Changing Tables & Dressers • Bassinets & Cradles • Glider Rockers, Book Cases, Toy Boxes

Books and Toys

• Children’s Books • Infant-Preschool Toys • Outdoor Toys • Puzzles

Clothing

• Newborn to Size 14

(0-12 months must have tags)

• Play Clothes • Dresswear & Outerwear

Equipment • High Chairs & Swings • Gates • Pack N Plays , Bouncy Seats, Walkers, Exersaucers

DISCOVER

GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL! Goldfish Swim School is the premier learn-to-swim facility for kids ages 4 months to 12 years. We use our proven, confidence-building curriculum to promote a love of swimming and teach your children to be safer in and around the water. • 90° POOL • YEAR-ROUND LESSONS • SMALL CLASS SIZES

FARMINGDALE | GARDEN CITY 516.267.5120

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Call to Register TODAY and Receive a FREE Annual Membership Fee! Restrictions apply. Must present ad to redeem.

online extras The most important things kids learn at camp are the ones you can’t see. Here are 20 camp lessons we use every day ›› nymetroparents.com/camp-lessons

Summer camp can help kids become confident, independent, well-adjusted individuals. Read the benefits of camp at ›› nymetroparents.com/camp-benefits

Camp friends aren’t the only people who will have a lasting effect on your kid. Read about the special camper-counselor relationship at ›› nymetroparents.com/camper-counselor

Can you claim summer camp on your tax returns? Find out if your child’s summer camp qualifies for Child and Dependent Care Credit ›› nymetroparents.com/camp-deduction

inside

raising kids camp planner

18 How Camp Prepares Kids for College: Sending children to summer camp does more than keep them entertained—it prepares them for collegiate life. 22 Camp Directory: Find day camps, specialty camps, and sleepaway camps in and near Nassau County. 33 C amp Guide: This camps-at-a-glance chart makes it easier to find exactly what you want in a summer camp.

How Camp Prepares Kids for College ››

Sending children to summer camp does more than keep them entertained for the season—here are 10 ways it prepares them for the transition to collegiate life. By Stacey Ebert

t age 7 I went to day camp and by 10 I began going to sleepaway camp. Summer after summer I yearned for the end of school with excitement, though always with trepidation and a dash of worry as well. But the minute I opened the car door or the bus pulled up to my camp I was home, and that feeling never waned. Eight years after my first sleepaway camp experience, I headed off to college and that same mixture of emotions came along for the ride. Drawing on my camp experience, I was happy to discover, made the transition easier. Remembering the fun that superseded the fear, the compassion that outranked the chaos, and the learning that leveled the playing field helped more than any college preparatory book I could have read or any “what to know before you go to college” podcast I could have listened to (if those had existed at the time, of course!). What my camp friends and I learned stayed with us, transferred to others, and wove itself into the fabric of our being. As a camper and counselor, camp gave me the informal credits I needed to prepare for college. Here are 10 things I learned at camp that helped with the transition:

Learn to accept change.

This is probably the most significant lesson from camp that translates to college and then to life. Learning the only things we have control over are our attitudes, outlook, and responses is 18

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

not an easy feat. Our cabins were decided before we arrived, and sometimes our friends weren’t with us, or perhaps new friends left before the summer’s end. Counselors shifted each session, and the new ones had very different personalities than our previous leaders. We could fight these changes, be angry when they happened, and let it ruin our camp experience, or we could find a way to accept the change, experience the new, and learn and grow. In college, friendships, roommates, and even majors change. Dealing with change isn’t easy, but it’s fantastically necessary. As we progress in years, the changes we deal with get more difficult, so our ability to accept what we can’t change must grow—and camp starts that process.

Be flexible and go with the flow.

You go to canteen and it’s out of Strawberry Shortcakes that day. The cabin night you were waiting for got rained out, so now your evening activity is indoors in the lodge. These things happen. Camp teaches us to go with the flow—our tongues turning blue from a new favorite popsicle, wearing pajamas to evening program instead of wearing layers to the beach, and empathizing with a friend while focusing on having fun with new ones for the duration of camp. That flexibility is necessary in the college stages and beyond. Sometimes our choices are taken away, sometimes the abroad program is unavailable, and sometimes we can’t get into that last class needed to complete

CAMP MARKETPLACE

our major until the following semester. Camp teaches us to let go; that the more relaxed we can be, the easier the shifts will become; and that the more flexible we are, the better it is for our health and well-being.

SPEND THE MONTH OF

Embrace and learn from diversity.

Wendy’s Taubman’s

At some point in every camp experience, we meet people who are different from us. Showing interest in those differences makes us better people, and learning from those differences widens our comfort zones and broadens our minds. Cabin and unit mates come from many backgrounds and all bring something different to the table. As the number of people with whom we interact increases, the amount of diversity we encounter grows. We meet people on day one of camp, and by day three we feel as if we’ve known them forever. Camp facilitates ease in meeting new people, lessens the fear in that meeting, and manages to make connecting with strangers more amazing than scary. Having that confidence in making new friends makes it much easier to do the same at freshman orientation. At camp and at school, we spend time with people, and we learn their desires and struggles, likes and dislikes, and upbringings and dreams of what’s to come. Camp and college provide an opportunity to make those strangers become fast friends, take notice of and embrace the differences, and learn more about the world around us.

Don’t be afraid to be yourself.

JULY

STARS OF TOMORROW

SUMMER CAMP MONDAY-FRIDAY 9:30AM-3PM

SPRING CLASSES

AGES 6-12

SPACE IS LIMITED

STILL AVAILABLE PRE K - TEENS

We all have strengths and weaknesses, successes and failures, likes and dislikes, dreams and aspirations, and things that bring us utter peace. If all of those were the same for our bunkmates, camp would be boring. I loved swim and arts and crafts. One of my best friends could spend her entire day at farm, while the other two practically lived at the barn with the horses. There were those who took to the talent show, while others shied away from the spotlight. There were those who were leaders and others who were not. All of us had a safe place to grow at camp. University campuses and courses widen that playing field too, but those of us who went to camp learned at an early age that we could be ourselves and be proud of who we are. It’s those lessons we reach for in the dorm room during moments that are coupled with the fear that we might not be enough.

Everyone gets homesick.

Perhaps it happened after you read a letter or email from home. Perhaps it happened after visiting day. Perhaps it happened after a bad dream, or when you fell off a horse, got your first tick, or had that first bellyache at camp. At one point or another, all of us had a twinge of homesickness. But at camp there was often someone with a friendly shoulder, an ear to lend, or open arms for a hug that lessened the ick and reminded us we could get through. Homesickness happens at college, too, but at camp we learned there’s another side, another day, and always someone to help, whether it’s your roommate, a friend, a professor, or an advisor. And sometimes we’re even better equipped to handle homesickness in college because we remember what it felt like at camp and how we overcame it. Feeling homesick happens to the most popular kid, the best athlete, and everyone in between. Homesickness is real, but it’s manageable. I learned that lesson at camp.

Respect yourself and others.

Camp provides us freedoms we might not have at home while encouraging us to make good choices, take care of ourselves, and use good judgment. These lessons continue after we leave the continued on next page ››

171 Eileen Way • Syosset, NY 11791

516.932.9173 www.stars-of-tomorrow.com LongIslandParent 19

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grounds in August. Camp discourages bullying, teaches us to speak up for fellow campers and ourselves, and reminds us that although we’re away from home and school our character still counts and our actions have consequences. College life comes with privileges of freedoms, new people and attitudes, and many of the same choices as camp. Remembering the advice of camp counselors from our youth who constantly reminded us to respect ourselves stays with us and often pops up in critical moments when we have difficult choices to make.

Share your skills and your stuff.

Jill always brought the coolest clothes and stuff to camp. No one knew more about all things agricultural than Erin. Mr. Bill could fix everything, and his wife made the best iced tea in the world (well, according to us). Carolyn showed us how to make a one-match fire, and Maryanne introduced us to our favorite crumb cake recipe. Some people shared stuff, some shared knowledge, and others shared experiences—and it all mattered. Those who had something to share felt good knowing they were able to help someone else. Those who benefited from the generosity felt a connection, a boost in positivity, and often a desire to continue to pay it forward. College is much the same. Sometimes it’s as simple as sharing a pizza, lending out a sweatshirt, copying class notes for a sick friend, or explaining a statistics problem at 3am to your stressed out roommate. At camp we borrowed clothes, lent encouragement, and shared our knowledge. It was never about who had or knew the most or the best of anything; it was about those with the biggest hearts, the kindest ears, and the ability to be there. It mattered then, and it will continue to matter throughout college and the years thereafter.

Everyone has something to teach and to learn.

Trish the nurse taught me how to safely remove a tick. Mr. Bill showed me how to chop down a tree. Laura taught us to sing our hearts out. Millie taught us to cook, Adrienne showed us how to make our well-worn beaded camp bracelets, and I stayed up nights studying lifeguarding with Jackie. We all pitched in and we all offered up what we knew. But it was more than just tangible things: Krista taught me to deal with change, campmates taught me the magic of friendship, and hundreds of counselors taught me kindness, courage, resilience, and perseverance. College was

no different. We learn from our professors, our advisors, our friends, our surroundings, and often locals and strangers. Having an open mind, acknowledging that lessons come in all forms, having willingness to share what we know, and showcasing the ability to listen and share—camp introduced us to these lessons, and for that we are forever grateful.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

The road from Girls’ Camp to Boys’ Camp was covered by the trees’ canopy and lined with shrubbery. At night, there were parts of the path where you could barely see the glow of the stars. Whenever we had events at Boys’ Camp, fear of that dark set in. Erin was always there with a hand to lend. If she walked in the middle of the road, anyone whose arms or hands were intertwined with hers was safe from the brush and the creatures of the night. In college, I never would have gotten through statistics without the help of my science- and mathminded friends. When the methods were confusing and laden with frustration, those friends stepped in to lend a hand. Camp taught us not to be afraid to ask for help, whether we needed a hug when we were sad, a boost to reach the top of the rope, a spot with that back-handspring, a buddy for swim, or a friend with whom to walk home. Later in life, we were filled with the knowledge that asking for help only made us stronger, and we were often prepared to lend a hand when asked.

Face your fears.

Nature’s creepy crawlies wound their webs in all sorts of knobby corners at camp, and our bathrooms were outside. Then there was the swim test in the first days of the season. Camp taught us the need to face our fears in order to conquer them, to not get swallowed up by those emotions, and to always offer to help others face their own fears. As our worlds grow, often so do our fears. College finds us in new spaces, with new people and new experiences. Each time we try to push past that comfort zone, there’s fear. Camp reminds us that those fears (whether of failure or spiders) are normal, don’t make us any “less,” and are conquerable. Jackie got back on the horse after she was thrown off, Jill got back in a canoe after she busted her foot, and I jumped off of the biggest rock I’ve ever seen. We knew the future was full of unknowns, failures were bound to happen, and obstacles would most certainly pop up, but we also knew all those things we had to overcome were manageable.

Stacey Ebert is a camper at heart who has spent more than 25 years in the camping and education industries in New York as a teacher, club advisor, counselor, and aquatics director. She is a published writer, blogger, event planner, volunteer manager, and educator always in search of joy. She loves travel, spending time outside, and is an avid yogi. She has visited more than 50 of the world’s countries, and met her Australian-born husband while on a trip in New Zealand. Check out her blog at thegiftoftravel.wordpress.com.

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LongIslandParent 21

Camp Directory DAY CAMPS

Beth Sholom Day Camp

401 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights 516-621-9257 bethsholomdaycamp.com office@bethsholomdaycamp.com Beth Sholom Day Camp offers boys and girls, ages 3-15, the opportunity to reach their goals in a friendly, noncompetitive atmosphere. Activities include music, dance, arts and crafts, karate, and outdoor sports. Red Cross swim instruction is offered in our three heated pools. BSDC provides door-to-door, air-conditioned transportation. Glatt Kosher lunches provided daily, and we are nut-free. BSDC offers fulland mini-day nursery programs. Fifth-eighth grades participate in a camp and trip program. A CIT program is available for ninth and 10th grades. bethsholomdaycamp.com or office@ bethsholomdaycamp.com.

Buckley Day Camp

2 I.U. Willets Road, Roslyn 516-365-7760 buckleycamp.com; info@buckleycamp.com Buckley Day Camp provides a unique environment in which children are given the opportunity to learn life skills in a fun, nurturing, and noncompetitive environment! Here, your children will experience a program designed to meet their individual needs. Nursery through kindergarten have a traditional day camp program, while first-seventh grades have an elective based program. Eighth-ninth grades participate in a camp travel program, and 10th-graders can join our CIT program. Swim instruction daily in four outdoor heated pools. Door-to-door transportation provided on air-conditioned mini buses. Lunch and snacks provided daily.

Camp East Woods

31 Yellow Cote Drive, Oyster Bay 516-922-4400 campeastwoods.com Camp East Woods offers special experiences for campers ages 2-15. With easy access from dozens of North Shore towns (Nassau and Suffolk), our camp is truly affordable. Our facilities, located on 46-acres, offer rain or shine accommodations: two gymnasiums, theater stage, art studio, woodworking shop, cooking facilities, air-conditioned lunch room, science and computer labs, library, nurse’s office, athletic fields, two pools, and a playground.

Camp W - Where Friendships are Made

121 Wolf Hill Road, Melville 631-692-6222 campwdaycamp.com; info@campwdaycamp.com Camp W is a traditional and affordable day

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

camp for children ages 4-14. Campers enjoy exciting camp activities including sports, swimming, creative arts, computers, rocketry, and cooking. Unique schedules with an all-elective afternoon gives children an amazing summer experience! Our small camper-to-staff ratio allows us to really get to know all campers. It’s a place where everyone becomes a family. Transportation, discounts, before and after care are available. We have created an atmosphere where each and every camper builds confidence and self-esteem in an exciting and nurturing environment.

Camps ‘R’ Us Where Summer Vacation Is Our Job

sports, STEAM, and specialty camp programs at three outstanding collegiate locations (The College at Old Westbury, Farmingdale State College, and St. Joseph’s College Patchogue). Programs are offered to boys and girls entering kindergarten-ninth grade. Future Stars programs help campers improve their skills in their chosen activities, and a balanced day ensures the perfect blend of instruction and fun. Stop by open house events to view the facilities, meet the staff, and take advantage of enrollment savings. See you in the summer!

Hofstra Summer Camps

Locations in Baldwin, Bellmore, East Rockaway, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Saint James, Syosset, Valley Stream, and West Islip 516-935-CAMP (2267) campsrus.org; info@campsrus.org At Camps ‘R’ Us, we strive to provide the very best summer day camp experience available with award-winning programming, including sports, arts and crafts, gaming, gaga, go-karts, swimming, bowling, trips, and special events. Our campuses are hosted by some of the top private schools on Long Island, and feature premier indoor and outdoor facilities and equipment. Our highly experienced and expertly trained staff members are among the best and brightest in camping. Combine that with our unique affordability, and Camps ‘R’ Us has earned the reputation as one of the best summer camps on Long Island.

101 Oak St., Uniondale 516-463-CAMP (2267) hofstra.edu/camp ce-camps@hofstra.edu Hofstra Summer Camps offer boys and girls, ages 5-17, more than 70 programs. There’s something for everyone—from theater to sports, gaming, art, music, STEM and STEAM, academics, culinary, dance, YouTube Studio, Adventure Education, and even a Super Hero Academy. At our camp, kids will explore their interests, learn valuable social skills, and have fun while gaining confidence. Daily swim instruction for many programs in Hoftra’s 50-meter, Olympic-sized, indoor pool. Door-to-door, air-conditioned transportation available. Lunch included; we offer gluten-free and Kosher food, and are peanut-allergy sensitive. Contact us at 516-463-CAMP (2267) or email ce-camps@hofstra.edu.

Countryside Montessori School

Kenwal Day Camp

354 Lakeville Road, Lower Level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 cmsgn.com; info@cmsgn.com Countryside Montessori School runs a summer camp during July and August for children ages 18 months to 6 years. Camp has weekly themes that revolve around the projects and discussions the children have. Toddlers have play-based mornings spent in our playground. Primary (ages 3 years and older) spends part of the mornings doing academics then spends afternoons in the playground while toddlers nap. Camp is a great way to acclimate your child to a school environment. Please contact us for information on enrollment at 516-4668422 or info@cmsgn.com.

Future Stars Summer Camps

The College at Old Westbury, Old Westbury 516-876-3490 Farmingdale State College 2350 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale St. Joseph’s College 155 W. Roe Blvd., Patchogue fscamps.com Future Stars Summer Camps offer weekly

100 Drexel Ave., Melville 631-694-3399 kenwaldaycamp.com Kenwal Day Camp, the “camp that cares,” fosters a positive attitude and high self-esteem in its campers, ages 3-15, who participate, have fun, and try their best. Situated on 20 magnificent acres, with nature trails, a man-made lake, with the finest facilities and equipment. Small group size ensures campers hours of exploration, excitement, and maximum attention from our staff. Activities include inflatable water park, mini golf, arts and crafts, sports, theater, dance, swimming, zip lines, go-karts, rope rappelling, and special events. We provide an atmosphere filled with memories that your child will cherish forever.

Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp

516-238-4586 livoyagersdaycamp.com livoyagersdaycamp@gmail.com Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp is an exciting, action-packed, and safe summer experience, for boys any girls, ages 4-14. We offer continued on page 24 ››

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CAMP MARKETPLACE

DOROTHY P. FLINT NASSAU COUNTY 4-H CAMP 4-H Co-Ed Sleepaway Camp Making Memories and Friendships That Last a Lifetime

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activities that include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, rock climbing, gymnastics, talent shows, and special events, plus amazing adventure trips to Splish Splash, Adventureland, Boomers, museums, iMax theaters, Fire Island, Bayville Adventure Park, aquariums, and Chocolate Factory! Our staff is CPR-, first aid-, and AED-certified. Lifeguards and nurse on staff and licensed. CIT program is available. Free transportation in Suffolk and Nassau counties.

M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym & Early Childcare Education Center A Rainbow of Programs Under One Roof!

Located at 3186 Sound Avenue, Riverhead, NY Visit us online at www.ccenassau.org or call (516) 433-7970 ex. 11

OPEN HOUSE: April 7 • May 5th • May 19th • 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. th

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH SUMMER 2018 MONDAY - FRIDAY PROGRAM July 2-27, 2018 | 9:00am to 3:30pm

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Mid-Island Y JCC

45 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview 516-822-3535 miyjcc.org summercamp@miyjcc.org Mid-Island Y JCC Summer Camp, the largest Jewish day camp on Long Island, offers so much to so many. In-building camps for infants through pre-K are offered as well as outdoor day camp for all ages. Specialty camps available such as performing arts, sports, teen travel, CIT, and inclusion programs for children with special needs. All while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime!

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth

announces its 38th annual summer program for gifted children. The summer

program runs on Monday to Friday from July 2-27. The program is open to gifted children entering grades 2-8 in September 2018. The program expands students’ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

For information call 516-299-2160 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth Now find us on Facebook

Oasis Day Camps INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

LIU Post • College of Education, Information and Technology • 720 Northern Blvd. • Brookville, NY 11548-1300 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth • Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, Director

2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore 516-221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-496-7765 matsskidsgym.com Join us for up to eight weeks of summertime fun. This year’s theme will be full of “Emoji” with “Feeling Summer Fun” for ages 18 months to 12 years. Flexible full- and half-day programs. Small group sizes, fully air-conditioned, playgrounds with water activities, large newly refurbished gymnastics gyms, weekly theme-based arts and crafts, music, field trips (ages 5 and older), and lots of “specialties” to keep your child active. Lunch included. Extended early and after care available. Registration now open! Call for pricing.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Oasis at LIU Post 720 Northern Blvd., Greenvale 646-519-5066 liupost@oasischildren.com Oasis on the Sound David Zimmerman, camp director Port Washington Senior Center

80 Manorhaven Blvd., Manorhaven 718-596-4900 onthesound@oasischildren.com Oasis at Tully Park Jason Miradoli, camp director Michael J. Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Ave., New Hyde Park 718-596-4900 tullypark@oasischildren.com oasischildren.com Oasis Camp offers programs for children ages 3 years to sixth grade! With facilities in Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, Westchester, and New Jersey, Oasis features mature staff with low camper-tostaff ratio and a warm environment in which kids can participate in activities tailored to their interests. The Early Start camp for kids ages 3 years to kindergarten offers sports, daily Red Cross swim, arts, dance, theater, and a Ready for September enrichment program. The Traditional Camp (first-sixth grades) provides campers with sports, crafts, theater, dance, and Red Cross swim. Teen Travel has daily trips, team building, and overnights.

Old Westbury Summer Camp

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury 516-626-9268 oldwestburysummercamp.org Old Westbury Summer Camp is located on 14 beautiful, wooded acres. Children develop friendships in a safe and fun environment and embrace our family atmosphere, returning year after year. OWSC offers something for every child and family–exciting activities and workshops, multiple discounts, flexible scheduling, bus transportation, and Red Cross-certified swim instruction daily. Please visit an open house: Feb. 25, March 11 or 18, April 14 or 22, May 6 or 19, or June 3 or 16 from 10am-12pm, or request a private tour. For more information, visit our website: oldwestburysummercamp.org.

Thomas School of Horsemanship Summer Day Camp

250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840 tshcamp.com tsh@tshcamp.com For more than 70 years Thomas School of Horsemanship has been a day camp where children expand their knowledge of horses and participate in the daily activities that a traditional camp offers. Each continued on page 26 ››

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Is Your Child Bored Of The Same Old Town Or School Camp? FOLLOW US

for fo or boys boys and and girls girls ages ag ges 4-14 4 14 4

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day our campers attend riding, horse science, instructional swim, free swim, sports, art, theater, and STEM. Each week we host an exciting special day that includes friendly competition and team spirit. We feel passionately about children having fun-filled days while learning some of life’s most important lessons: responsibility, caring, kindness, and critical thinking.

YMCA of Long Island

What are your kids doing this summer???

For more information, please visit www.buckleycamp.com or for a personal tour, call 516-365-7760 2 I.U. Willets Road, Roslyn, NY, 11576

SUMMER

DANCE STUDY @EGLEVSKY

855-2YMCALI (296-2254) Camp Locations: Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org/summer-day-camp tamar.simpson@ymcali.org YMCA Summer Day Camp offers children positive developmental experiences and encourages them to forge bonds with each other and with staff, building confidence through skill-building activities suited to their age. Each of our Ys offers a robust and fun-filled summer day camp program. Please check your local branch for specific offerings and pricing. You can also view a camp brochure with full program descriptions at ymcali.org.

Young People’s Day Camps Nassau 516-650-1856; 631-476-3330 ypdc.com Young People’s Day Camp of Nassau County, conveniently located in Hicksville, caters to children ages 4-15. We have been providing boys and girls with summer fun for more than 45 years! YPDC’s philosophy is to “grow” children intellectually, physically, and spiritually in a safe, fun environment! We offer twoto eight-week programs with exciting trips, arts and crafts, yoga, karate, carnivals, talent shows, special event days, instructional sports, and both recreational and instructional swim. YPDC is a family-owned and -operated program that offers a lunch program for a nominal fee and free doorto-door transportation to all areas in Nassau County.

CAMP OUTINGS @ Play Amusements

229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com Come to @ Play Amusements this

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

summer, where the sun always shines! @ Play Amusements is the ideal place for your next camp trip. Fully air-conditioned with a restaurant on premises. Activities for all ages include Laser Tag, Carousel, Tea Cup Ride, Bumper Cars, Himalaya Coaster Rides, Inflatable Zone, Adventure Maze, Toddler Center, and Ultimate Arcade! Organized check-in and personalized service have made us a premier choice for camps and groups. Come out of the heat and rain and step into the fun.

SLEEPAWAY CAMPS Camp Clio

Held at Camp Claire 15 Oakland Ave., Lyme, CT Middlesex County Camp 298 E. Haddam Moodus Road, Moodus, CT 212-472-5207 campclio.org Camp Clio and our new Camp Clio Teen offer a unique experience for adopted children (ages 9-12) and teens (ages 13-16). Camp Clio campers and counselors (themselves adopted and serving as role models) share the intimacy and safety of being with other adopted friends, providing the opportunity to share feelings and adoption stories with others who understand adoption without explanation because they are “just like me”—all in a fun camp environment. Camp Clio Teen: July 1-13. Camp Clio Youth: July 1-21. Campers may come for one or more sessions. Scholarships available.

Camp Huntington

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com dfalk@camphuntington.com Camp Huntington, a coed, residential summer camp for children and young adults with autism, and related developmental and learning disabilities, and ADD. Ability levels mild to moderate-severe. Located in High Falls in the beautiful Catskill Mountain region, the camp provides therapeutically and instructionally designed recreation programs in summer and certain weekends during the year. Programs offer structured daily activities designed to be safe, learning-based, fun, and rewarding. Positive continued on page 28 ››

CAMP MARKETPLACE

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Camp Clio

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Discover the joy of making music together with your family! Find a location near you in Long Island or Queens: www.MusicTogetherLI-Queens.com

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reinforcement motivates children to be happy and participate meaningfully. Activities encourage improvement in self-management and independence, and advancement in social and life skills. camphuntington.com.

THOMAS SCHOOL OF HORSEMANSHIP SUMMER CAMP HAS IT ALL!

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Melville, NY

Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp

3186 Sound Ave., Riverhead 516-433-7970 x11 ccenassau.org Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp in Riverhead is a coed, recreational, eight-week sleepaway camp. A three-day, two-nights “mini camp” is also offered. Stay-over weekends are available! We are located on 140-acres of woodland, farmland, and beachfront on the Long Island Sound. The location includes a 10-acre working farm, swimming, kayaking, adventure course, nature-science education center, horseback riding, archery, arts, and sports. The atmosphere fosters independence, leadership development, and self-esteem. We are a “cellphone-free” camp! Accredited by the American Camp Association and operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County.

SPECIALTY CAMPS Have the best summer ever!

With more than 70 programs, Hofstra Summer Camps has something for everyone. Learn more at a FREE Open House on April 21, featuring discounts for parents and carnival fun for kids from 12-2 p.m.

516-463-CAMP | HOFSTRA.EDU/CAMP

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March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Art League of Long Island Summer Art Adventure

30 DeForest Road, Dix Hills 631-462-5400 Summer Pre-College Portfolio Development 107 E. Deer Park Road, Dix Hills artleagueli.org info@artleague.org Summer Art Adventure offers kids and teens ages 5-14 fun and creative activities in a variety of visual arts mediums led by certified art professionals. Flexible options allow kids ages 5-10 to join one or all of five weekly themed sessions. Pre-teens and teens ages 11-14 can participate in one or both two-week sessions. Summer Pre-College Portfolio Development is geared to teens ages 15-18 interested in pursuing careers in art and design. Participants can enroll in one or both three-week sessions.

Camp Clio

Held at Camp Claire 15 Oakland Ave., Lyme, CT Middlesex County Camp 298 E. Haddam Moodus Road, Moodus, CT 212-472-5207

campclio.org Camp Clio and our new Camp Clio Teen offer a unique experience for adopted children (ages 9-12) and teens (ages 13-16). Camp Clio campers and counselors (themselves adopted and serving as role models) share the intimacy and safety of being with other adopted friends, providing the opportunity to share feelings and adoption stories with others who understand adoption without explanation because they are “just like me”—all in a fun camp environment. Camp Clio Teen: July 1-13. Camp Clio Youth: July 1-21. Campers may come for one or more sessions. Scholarships available.

Camp Huntington

The Coder School Syosset

45 Ira Road, Syosset 516-584-4244 syosset.thecoderschool.com syosset@thecoderschool.com In our increasingly tech-driven world, knowing how to code is an invaluable skill. The Coder School Syosset has weeklong camps, all summer long, to get your kids learning how to code. Choose from a variety of levels and programs ranging from beginner to advanced. Our camps include building websites, learning various languages such as Scratch and Python, and some new additions including artificial intelligence and

coding robots and drones. Join us at Long Island’s No. 1 coding program and let’s get our kids ready to change the world!

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium Nature Summer Camp

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org steved@cshfishhatchery.org Give your young explorers, pre-K to 12th grades, a summer surrounded by nature. Encourage their love of science with handson activities, nature crafts, live animals, and outdoor adventure nature camps. Expeditions to nearby salt marsh, ponds, and woodlands. 2018 programs: Close Encounters of the Natural Kind, Curious Naturalists, Field Explorers, Junior Biologists, Turtle Trackers, Fly Fishing, Orienteering, Outdoor Photography Fun, Oobleck!, Cool Experiments for a Hot Day, Pond Adventures, Salt Marsh Exploration, and Naturalists-in-Training (CIT) Program. One- to four-day camps are available. Summer fun at a great price! Prepare to get wet and muddy!

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center

1 Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor 516-367-5170 dnalc.org; dnalc@cshl.edu The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center is the world’s first science center devoted entirely to genetics education. Each summer since 1985 our laboratory classrooms have filled with students participating in five-day science camps. We offer fun and challenging programs for science enthusiasts entering sixth through 12th grades. Guided by our experienced educators, students use sophisticated laboratory and computer equipment to perform experiments several grade levels ahead of their peers.

Destination Science - The fun science day camp for curious kids 5 to 11! Multiple locations in Nassau and Suffolk counties 888-909-2822 destinationscience.org Destination Science kids experience “Aha!” moments of understanding, creativity, and curiosity while engineering, building, experimenting, and playing with

astonishing gadgets and fantastic gizmos. Our top notch, enthusiastic educators make STEM learning an adventure! Build Soccer-Bots and Rube Cube Goldberg-like contraptions; roller coasters, carnivals, and marine explorers; build and train four robots and engineer with techno toys; build a dinosaur roverbot and launch to a fantastical planet. 2018 topics: Science Makers and Inventors Camp, Amusement Park Science Camp, Transforming Robots Camp, and Rovers Rocketing to Space Camp.

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Summer Program for the Gifted Challenging Creative Enriching CAMP

Grades K – 8

3, 4 & 5 Day Workshops

June 25th – August 31st

Enriching brilliant minds every day… in every way.

Drama Kids

Locations throughout North Nassau County 516-360-5026 dramakids.com/ny6 Drama Kids offers exciting programs for children ages 4-17. Kids have tons of fun and develop important self-confidence, self-esteem, and verbal communication skills that will help them personally and academically. Activities include mini scripts, speaking skills, creative movement, snippets, story starters, whole group improvisations, and everyone’s favorite theater games. We also showcase our work in a small performance for the fall, spring, and full-day camp programs. Our weekly camps: Make Them Laugh and Far Out Fables are available for full- and half-day adventures this summer. Enroll today! “The difference is dramatic.”

Is your child

GIFTED? Year-Round Enrichment

All Subject Areas Ages 2-16

Classes Offered 7 Days a Week Nassau & Suffolk Locations

631-549-2313

www.VillageEastGifted.com

Eglevsky Ballet

700 Hicksville Road, Suite 102, Bethpage 516-746-1115 eglevskyballet.org Eglevsky Ballet, under the artistic direction of Maurice Brandon Curry, provides professional caliber training for students of all ages and abilities. Eglevsky presents an annual production of The Nutcracker, two summer intensives, master classes, performing opportunities, and community education. The July Summer Intensive is geared toward serious dancers. This is a full-day program, with classes in ballet, pointe, variations, modern, jazz, character, Pilates, and pas de deux. Housing is available. The August Summer Intensive is a half-day program, Monday-Friday, and focuses on development of ballet fundamentals. continued on next page ››

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Eye Level of Williston Park

61 Hillside Ave., Williston Park 516-747-7700 eyelevelwillistonpark.com Don’t let your child suffer from Summer Brain Drain! After a year of rigorous academia, it can be easy for a child to slip into the relaxing activities of summer without a care in the world. However, three months free of school can often have a detrimental impact on a child’s education. Fortunately, Eye Level of Williston Park offers the academic programs that students need to enter the coming school year prepared to take on any challenge! Call us now at 516747- 7700 to schedule a free diagnostic assessment.

Green Vale School

250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville 516-621-2420 greenvaleschool.org Green Vale hosts two week-long sessions of camp each June for ages 2-14. A half-day format allows kids to dive into one of more than 20 offerings including outdoor games, art, science play, cooking, leadership, and sports. All camps are led by Green Vale’s renowned teachers on a 40-acre campus. For complete camp listings, visit greenvaleschool.org. Learn more about school and summer programs at a free Open Play session April 3 or 4. RSVP to admissions@greenvaleshool.org.

Hofstra Summer Camps

peanut-allergy sensitive. Contact us at 516-463-CAMP (2267) or email ce-camps@hofstra.edu.

Kenwal Day Camp - Extreme Teens Travel Program

100 Drexel Ave., Melville 631-694-3399 kenwaldaycamp.com Kenwal’s “Extreme Teens Travel Program” is the perfect blend of outdoor camp activities, as well as overnight and local travel experiences. The program creates an opportunity for campers grades seventh-11th, to enjoy an unforgettable summer on the road with their peers. Additionally, “Extreme Teens” will enjoy the comforts of home during camp days and local day trips. Our Extreme Teen program is a chance for campers to be active, confident, resilient, unplug from technology, develop lifelong skills, grow more independent, learn social skills, and make true friends.

Key to My Art Inc.

10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 131 Main St., East Rockaway keytomyart.com/nymetroparents.html info@keytomyart.com Not looking to commit to an entire summer of camp? Kids love art? We offer two sessions a day. 10am-12pm for ages 5-7 and 1-3pm for ages 8 and older. You choose your days! Each week is a different theme, different projects each day! Drawing, painting, sculpture, and collage—your child will get their hands on all different materials! Run by a NYS-certified art teacher, all artistic assistants are friendly and love working with children! The more you book, the more you save. Save up to 25 percent! Call or email for more information: 631-608-9048; info@ keytomyart.com; keytomyart.com.

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, director LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 liu.edu/giftedyouth The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the increasing recognition of society’s special responsibilities for children with demonstrably superior intellectual ability. The LIU Center for Gifted Youth brings together two important elements of education for the gifted: extraordinary

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

teachers recruited from leading schools in the metropolitan area and university-level facilities. These two factors, combined with an administrative and psychological team schooled in the needs of gifted children, give the program at LIU Post unique strengths in producing positive benefits for young people admitted to the program.

Long Island High School for the Arts Summer Arts Academy: sixth to 12th grades 239 Cold Spring Road, Syosset 516-622-5678 nassauboces.org/lihsa The Long Island High School for the Arts offers a four-week Summer Arts Academy that promises to be a rewarding experience for all aspiring artists in sixth through 12th grade. The program offers students professional-level classes designed to provide challenging artistic opportunities taught by practicing artists. Students have the choice to focus on one of LIHSA’s major disciplines: Theatre, Music, Dance, Fine Art, Digital Media, Special Effect, or Filmmaking. For more information or to find out what’s new for summer 2018, please call 516622-5678. Open house April 28.

Long Island Whole Child Academy Mentoring Scientific Minds Summer STEM Program

175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville 347-668-3676 liwholechild.org info@liwholechild.org Looking for an exciting, flexible addition to your child’s summer adventure? Mentoring Scientific Minds3 offers three, two-week sessions guaranteed to engross the most curious minds. Build submersible ROVs, “see” underwater; study rescued sunken treasures; and learn orienteering and survival skills outdoors at Environmental Boot Camp. Join our Flight Team to fly any airplane to any airport in the world with our own “Captain Joe,” and flight simulator. Build mini drones and robots, and learn electronics and engineering at our own Makers’ Space. Call now for information: 347-558-3676.

Mad Science of Long Island

Call for locations throughout Long Island: 855-264-1672 madscienceli.com info@madscienceli.com Mad Science will have children experiencing science in a whole new

light this summer with fun and interactive activities. The camps will run throughout Long Island with weekly full- and half-day themed sessions such as Secret Agent Lab, Robotics Lab, Robot Engineers, Advanced Robotics, Brixology, Science in Motion, Crazy Chemworks and NASA Space Explorers!

Mathnasium Learning Centers

Five Towns 414 Central Ave., Cedarhurst 516-569-1500 Great Neck 11 Great Neck Road, Great Neck 516-482-MATH (6284) Lynbrook 381 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-881-7997 New Hyde Park 810 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park 516-616-MATH (6284) Roslyn 217A Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights 516-484-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com Do you want your child to avoid the “summer slide?” Summer is a great time to catch up on math and get ahead! In our relaxed, homework-free environment, Mathnasium enables kids to focus on sharpening their mental math skills. Instead of the dreaded “summer slide,” Mathnasium students develop and maintain the knowledge and confidence needed to hit the ground running when school begins in the fall. Mathnasium is a learning center where kids go to catch up, keep up, or get ahead in math. Programs run year-round for kids of all ages.

Music Together

Various locations; find the location near you musictogetherli-queens.com While the big kids are at camp this summer, have some family-style, music-makin’ fun with your little ones. Once a week for six weeks, you’ll sing, dance, and play with your baby, toddler, or preschooler in a play-based, developmentally appropriate musical environment. Some centers even offer classes for the big kids too! Founded in 1987, Music Together is a research-based program. Each family receives a CD or download set and songbook so you can continue the fun at home with the rest of the family. Find a location near you in Queens or on Long Island: musictogetherli-queens.com. continued on page 32 ››

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Countryside Montessori School

2018

An Education Where Children Thrive Under the Guidance of Great Teacher in an Environment that Stimulates Creativity and Individual Potential!

Come Visit an Open House!

A proven system celebrating over 100 years of practice, research and worldwide recognition • Our fully equipped spacious classroom offer the most enriched curriculum OPEN HOUSE available for 18 months - 6 years. th March 11 2pm - 5pm • Fully affiliated with the American Montessori Society since 1998.

10AM - 12PM

Feb 25 Mar 11 & 18 Apr 14 & 22 May 6 & 19 Jun 3 & 16

• Early drop-off and Extended day available.

Or call to schedule a tour (516) 626-9268

Enjoy 14 Acres of Fun & Sun, Swim Lessons Every Day, Professional Tennis Lessons, Door-To-Door Busing Available (Select your AM and PM locations), Before & After Care Available, Daily Lunch Included

oldwestburysummercamp.org

354 Lakeville Road Great Neck, NY • 516-466-8422 Visit our website: www.CMSGN.com

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury, NY 11568 CAMP EAST WOODS OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2018 2/8/18 2:36 PM

OWSC-NYMetro2018-3.55x4.7.indd 1

E x p lor e M or e ! Located on 46 Acres in Oyster Bay, NY For Ages 2 - 15 Half Day & 3 Day Options Available

• Build Friendships • Create Memories • Develop Social & Life Skills

OPEN HOUSES:

March 11th 10am-1pm, May 19th 10am-1pm and by appointment

Summer Day Camp June 25th - August 10th Single or Multi Week Options Available • 9-3PM Extended Day Available

Private Swim & Music Instruction Available

• Aquatics • Music • Arts & Crafts • Woodworking • Junior Chefs • Performing Arts • Creative Writing • Improv • Team & Individual Sports

CAMP MORE, SAVE MORE PROMOTION! Save Up To

20%

On Tuition For 7 Weeks!

WAYS TO SAVE: • Sibling Discounts • Early Bird Savings • Referral Credits

17415971H705

Fun & Innovating Program Includes:

31 Yellow Cote Road, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 @campeastwoods For more information www.campeastwoods.com/camp@eastwoods.org / 516.922.4437

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Spin DJ Academy

202 Merrick Road, 2nd ﬂoor, Rockville Centre 16 Broadway, Amityville 631-608-8858 spindjcademy.com Spin DJ Camp is an interactive DJ education camp teaching campers everything they need to be the life of the party in a social and creative setting! Our two-week camp program includes DJ and Music Production classes using the hottest gear, a fun and social group environment, and special guest DJs to inspire. At the end of each session students will create a live performance, recorded DJ set, and live video!

Stars of Tomorrow

171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-932-9173 stars-of-tomorrow.com The Stars of Tomorrow Summer Program consists of 20 days Monday-Friday during the month of July from 9:30am3pm. The cost is $1,500. Each day consists of singing, dancing, and acting, with a musical production for parents on the last day. Children bring their lunch, but we offer snacks without nuts all day long. Students have access to a huge gym for exercise, and we are down the block from bowling and other field trips.

Thomas School of Horsemanship Summer Day Camp

250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840

tshcamp.com tsh@tshcamp.com For more than 70 years Thomas School of Horsemanship has been a day camp where children expand their knowledge of horses and participate in the daily activities that a traditional camp offers. Each day our campers attend riding, horse science, instructional swim, free swim, sports, art, theater and STEM. Each week we host an exciting special day that includes friendly competition and team spirit. We feel passionately about children having fun filled days while learning some of life’s most important lessons: responsibility, caring, kindness, and critical thinking.

Unlimited Sports Action

30 Beechwood Ave., Port Washington 516-767-7675 unlimitedsportsaction.com info@unlimitedsportsaction.com Day camp at Unlimited Sports Action gives your child the opportunity to play a variety of sports and fun-filled activities each day. Your child will have a unique opportunity to play and have fun with other campers the same age. Designed to inspire learning through a range of physical activities and games, our multi-sport summer camp offers a low-pressure, yet high-energy environment allowing your child to excel in a range of sports. These games and activities, combined with our professional coaching staff, ensure a great summer experience!

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.org Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts, the nation’s pre-eminent arts day camp, offers more than 70 programs of study in the arts—visual art, dance, music, theater, writing—and arts-related fields—nature, chess, and recreational arts. Each summer, more than 1,500 students ages 4-18 are immersed in art and nature and surrounded by friends who share their interests and enthusiasm. Transportation is provided in air-conditioned buses departing from throughout the New York metro and Long Island areas. Two-, three-, four-, and seven-week sessions are offered from June 25-Aug. 10.

Village East Gifted Camp ThinkTank Summer Academic Program

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted® summer program “Camp ThinkTank”, is an academic summer program for the gifted learner. We offer three- and four-day and evening workshops for participants in firstsixth grades. Using its trademarked teaching approach, one or more of the following curriculum areas are covered in each workshop: Civil Engineering and Infrastructures,

Cultural Geography, Human Civilization and Achievements, STEAM, Anatomy-Physiology-Pathology, Architectural Symbolism and Design, Philosophy and Artistic Expression, Culinary Science and Techniques, Entrepreneurship, Marketing and Animal Studies, and Statistical Game Design. Multiple workshops and sibling discounts are available.

Village East Gifted Camp ThinkTank Summer “STREAM” Program

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted® summer “STREAM” program (incorporating art and writing). “Camp ThinkTank,” is a summer steam program for the gifted learner. We offer three- and four-day workshops for participants in first-sixth grades. Using its trademarked teaching approach, one or more of the following curriculum areas are covered in each workshop: Civil Engineering and Infrastructures, Microbiology, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, 3D Design and Printing, Human Civilization and Achievements, Anatomy-Physiology-Pathology, Structural Symbolism, Robotics, Coding and Arduino Boards, Culinary Science and Techniques, Animal Studies, Earth Science, Statistical Game Design, and CAD Architecture.

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Destination Science The fun science day camp for curious kids 5-11!

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activities for families?

Save $30/wk! Ends 3/31/18

Subscribe to our family activity

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11 Long Island Locations destinationscience.org 888-909-2822 32

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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Art League of Long Island artleagueli.net Beth Sholom Day Camp bethsholomdaycamp.com Buckley Day Camp buckleycamp.com Camp Clio campclio.org Camp East Woods campeastwoods.com

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Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium cshfishhatchery.org

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center dnalc.org

Destination Science: The FUN Science Day Camp For Curious Kids 5-11!

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destinationscience.org

Future Stars Summer Camps fscamps.com gershsummerprogram.com Hofstra Summer Camps hofstra.edu Kenwal Day Camp kenwaldaycamp.com Key to My Art keytomyart.com

Challenge Courses

Fine Arts

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finassauboces.org

livoyagersdaycamp.com

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Long Island High School for the Arts Summer Arts Academy Long Island Voyagers Day Camp

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Countryside Montessori School cmsgn.com

Gersh Academy at West Hills Day Camp

Special Needs

Nature/Petting Zoo

CIT (counselor-in-training)

Travel

Horseback Riding

Competitive Sports

Theater

STEAM/Robotics

PROGRAMS:

Scholarship

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Guide

SERVICES:

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M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym & E.C.E.C. matsskidsgym.com

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Mill Neck Foundation/ Lutheran Friends of the Deaf lutheranfriendsofthedeaf.org

Oasis Camp at LIU Post oasischildren.com

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Oasis Camp at Tully Park oasischildren.com

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Oasis Camp On The Sound oasischildren.com

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Old Westbury Summer Camp oldwestburysummercamp.org

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Stars of Tomorrow stars-of-tomorrow.com Sylvan of Mineola sylvanlearning.com The Coder School thecoderschool.com The Green Vale School greenvaleschool.org Thomas School of Horsemanship

tshcamp.com

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

usdan.org

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villageeastgifted.com

Young People’s Day Camp of Nassau ypdc.com

Village East Gifted Camp ThinkTank

YMCA of Long Island ymcali.org

Challenge Courses

Fine Arts

Special Needs

Nature/Petting Zoo

CIT (counselor-in-training)

Horseback Riding

Competitive Sports

Theater

STEAM/Robotics

PROGRAMS:

Scholarship

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Guide

SERVICES:

Travel

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80+

diverse exhibitors

Sunday, April 29, 2018 10 AM – 4:30 PM Long Island Hilton/Huntington 598 Broad Hollow Road (Rt. 110), Melville

Tons of fun classes for kids of all ages to enjoy!

Tickets $5 no charge for ages 2 & younger

Find the best on Long Island: • • • •

Childcare, schools and camps After school activities and fun places Health and wellness professionals Tutoring and special needs … and much more!

2 Tickets for the Price of 1! Online or at the event. Use code “Parent” at

www.AllKidsFair.com Offer expires 4/29/18

Meet QuackerJack from the L.I. Ducks

FREE

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Bounce House, Petting Zoo, Face Painting, Balloon Animals & Popcorn. See Live Butterflies, Play with Robots, and Meet an 8 ½ Foot Snake!

For more info, visit

www.AllKidsFair.com or call 516-621-1446

Mitzvah Market magazine Your Source for Ideas & Inspiration

Mıtzvah Market 2017-2018

MITZVAHMARKET.COM

Your Mitzvah CHECKLIST, Budget Worksheet and TIMELINE

Get Your FREE Copy Your single source for: g Entertainers g Caterers g Favors g Photographers g Invitations and more... Dance With Me:

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Mother & Son Father & Daughter Songs •••

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Davler Media Group Fax: 212.271.2239 • Call: 914.290.4716 Email: Distribution@davlermedia.com 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor New York, NY 10018

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Family Fun in Manhattan Malcolm Pinckney

Courtesy VStar Entertainment Group

W he hile y re ou , v ’r isit e …

The whole patrol shows up for some live action fun!

Who Let the Pups Out?

Riverside Park

Neighboring the Hudson River, this park stretches from 72nd to 158th streets with nature-friendly areas, including the Bird Sanctuary, Garden People’s Garden, Mount Tom, and Cherry Walk. Kids can enjoy visiting one of more than 15 playgrounds throughout the park, from Hippo Playground to Dinosaur Playground and Neufeld (Elephant) Playground. Visit it: Riverside Drive and 72nd to 158th streets, Upper West Side; 212-873-3070; riversideparknyc.org Can’t-miss event: TNF’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Bunny Fun on March 24, 9:30am-3pm Directions: Approximately a 1-hour drive or LIRR and subway ride from Garden City

The production is inspired by the poem “Wynken, Blynken and Nod.”

Sleep No More

What happens when we go to sleep? Where can our imaginations take us? Spellbound Theatre’s ‘Wink’ at Symphony Space is a highly creative and multi-disciplinary performance that explores dreams from the perspective of a young child and her bear. Blending shadow puppetry, physical theater, and animation, this unique show is a captivating journey designed to engage and inspire the very youngest audience members. March 24, 11am and 2pm. Age: 2-7. $17 and up. Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side. symphonyspace.org.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Amanda Gentile

Mitchell Zachs Photography

Fans of the TV show will flip when they see PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure on stage. It’s Pirate Day in Adventure Bay, and Mayor Goodway is getting ready for a big celebration. But first, Ryder and his team of pirate pups must rescue Cap’n Turbot from a mysterious cavern. When they do, they also discover a secret pirate treasure map. The PAW Patrol sets out over land and sea to find the treasure for Mayor Goodway’s celebration before Mayor Humdinger finds it first. The pups will need all paws on deck for this pirate adventure, including some help from the newest pup, Tracker. The 85-minute show includes a 15-minute intermission. And expect plenty of impressive music, choreography, lights, and special effects. March 22-25, see website for times. Age: All. $30 and up. The Theater at Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown. pawpatrollive.com.

Irish Arts Center

Explore Irish heritage at this arts and cultural center with programs in music, dance, language, literary arts, and theater. Kid-friendly programs include Introductory Step Dance, during which families learn the reel and the jig, and Bagpipes: Traditional Irish Music for Kids to learn how to play these Irish pipes. Visit it: 553 W. 51st St., Hell’s Kitchen; 212-757-3318; irishartscenter.org Can’t-miss event: Annual St. Patrick’s Open Day on March 11, 12pm Directions: Approximately a 1-hour drive or LIRR and subway ride from Garden City

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 ‘Curious George: The Golden Meatball’ (No. 3 on our list).

MARCH

y-day day-b : r u o t ou line ar Check alendar on alend c ood, hborh cost. g i e n h by and Searc type, age, t n eve ily! ted da a d p U

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EDITOR: DEE SAUNDERS nassaucal@davlermedia.com

CALENDAR

Editor’s Hot Tickets

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

Smarty Pants, Holiday Fun

Show Time!, Little Foodies

Crafty Kids, Once Upon a Time

Fun Fairs & Festivals

Mini Museums, The Great Outdoors

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the eight 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!

Dublin Irish Dancers

WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 8pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: 9 and older WHAT: An all-star cast brings to life the epic tale of Celtic culture, carrying its traditional melodies and steps to the New World with a gala celebration of Irish music and dance. WHY WE LOVE IT: Celebrate the incredible evolution of Irish traditional dance and music. WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

Bill Charlap Trio Plays the Songs of Leonard Bernstein

WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 8pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Grammy award-winning pianist Bill Charlap performs the music of Leonard Bernstein with bassist Peter Washington and drummer Bill Stewart. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a celebration of the 100th anniversary of Bernstein’s birth! WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 516-767-1384. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

‘Curious George: The Golden Meatball’

WHEN: Saturday, March 10, 2pm WHERE: Adelphi University, 1 South Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-8, adult WHAT: Join the inquisitive, lovable little monkey Curious George—star of books, movies, and the award-winning PBS television show—in this new musical. WHY WE LOVE IT: George learns about Rome, meatballs, and the “secret ingredient” of cooking! WANT TO GO? $20. 516-877-4000. aupac.adelphi.edu.

‘Amazing Grace’

WHEN: Friday, March 16, 8pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Amazing Grace is an original musical based on the aweinspiring true story behind the world’s most beloved song. A captivating tale of romance, rebellion and redemption, this radiant production follows one man whose incredible journey ignited a historic wave of change. WHY WE LOVE IT: It is an unforgettable musical saga that captures the spirit of history’s sweetest and most powerful sound: freedom. WANT TO GO? $49. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

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‘Red Kite Treasure Adventure’

WHEN: March 15-17, Thursday-Friday, 11am and 1pm; Saturday, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Red Kite Treasure Adventure is an interactive theatrical experience with live music and sensory moments created specifically for young people on the autism spectrum. WHY WE LOVE IT: This intimate production creates a safe and exciting theatrical environment for children with autism. WANT TO GO? $15. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

‘Artrageous!’

WHEN: Sunday, March 25, 3pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: All WHAT: With a palette that also mixes vocals, choreography, and audience interaction, Artrageous! is an interactive art and music extravaganza unlike anything you have every experienced. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a unique visual journey packed with wild inspiration, creativity, and fun. WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 516-767-6444. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

‘Marvel Universe LIVE! Age of Heroes’

WHEN: March 22-April 1, see website for dates and times WHERE: NYCB LIVE, Home of The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Spider-Man, the Avengers, and the Guardians of the Galaxy join forces with Doctor Strange in a race against time to recover the Wand of Watoomb before it falls into Loki’s hands in this legendary battle to defend the universe from evil. WHY WE LOVE IT: Marvel fans, assemble! WANT TO GO? $17 and up. 516-231-4848. nycblive.com.

‘Awesome Allie: First Kid Astronaut’

WHEN: March 30-April 8, daily, 11am WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Yesterday Allie was just a normal kid, but today she’s headed into outer space. Grab your space suit and get ready for an adventure that’s out of this world. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will have fun and learn some fascinating science facts along the way! WANT TO GO? $15; $13 seniors and for children 12 and younger. 516-572-4066. cradleofaviation.org.

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. Irish Step Performance FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 10, 10am WHERE: Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: The Show Stompin’ Irish Dance School will present a fun dance program the whole family will enjoy. At the end of the performance, you will have an opportunity to learn a step or two. WANT TO GO? 516-221-1200. wantaghlibrary.org.

Stan Wiest: ‘A Musical Tribute to Audrey Hepburn’ FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, March 14, 2pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Featuring solo piano renditions of Broadway songs from shows such as My Fair Lady and film music by composers such as Henry Mancini. WANT TO GO? 516-767-1384. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Discovering Your Irish Heritage FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, March 20, 7pm WHERE: Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Join Kathleen McGee of the Genealogy Federation of Long Island and learn how to trace your Irish family history. WANT TO GO? 516-221-1200. wantaghlibrary.org.

Kids Movie: ‘Wonder’ FREE

WHEN: Friday, March 30, 2pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Come enjoy a movie on the big screen. Bring your own snacks and drinks. WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Macy’s Flower Show 2018 FREE

WHEN: March 25-April 8, Monday-Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Stop by Macy’s annual welcome to spring, when the store is transformed into breathtaking floral scenes with blooms, fantasy flowers, and lush plants from around the world. This year’s theme is Once Upon a Springtime. WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com. ›› LongIslandParent 39

HOLIDAY FUN Irresistible Irish Bread Loaf for St. Patrick’s Day

WHEN: Thursday, March 8, 7pm WHERE: Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Measure and mix ingredients to make a loaf that you take home to bake. WANT TO GO? $5. 516-221-1200. wantaghlibrary.org.

7’s and 3’s Irish Band FREE

SMARTY PANTS East Woods School Admissions Open House FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, March 6, 9-11am WHERE: East Woods School, 31 Yellow Cote Road, Oyster Bay AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Learn about the STEAM-based curriculum. WANT TO GO? 516-922-4400. eastwoods.org.

Open House FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 11, 2-5pm WHERE: Countryside Montessori School, 354 Lakeville Road, Great Neck AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Speak with teachers for admission for the 2018-19 school year. WANT TO GO? 516-466-8422. cmsgn.com.

Up in the Air (Tweens)

WHEN: Monday, March 12, 6pm WHERE: Freeport Public Library, 144 W. Merrick Road, Freeport AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Explore the science of flight and make your own gliders based on your observations of various air-mazing experiments. WANT TO GO? $1. 516-379-3274. freeportlibrary.info.

Buckley Country Day Open House FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, March 13, 9am WHERE: Buckley Country Day School, 2 I.U. Willets Road, Roslyn AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Buckley Country Day Open House gives parents a chance to learn about the school’s curriculum and speak with the staff. WANT TO GO? 516-627-1910. buckleycountryday.com.

Chess

WHEN: March 17-April 28, Saturdays, 10am-12pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn to play chess from a member of the Long Island Industrial Chess League. Experienced players are also welcome. WANT TO GO? $7; $2 per drop-in session. 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice?

WHEN: March 1-May 13, Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Travel back to the Cretaceous Period and come face to face with dinosaurs of all sizes in their prehistoric environments. WANT TO GO? $13; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org. 40

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, March 11, 1:30pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy Irish music and set dancing, Irish tea, and soda bread. WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

20th Annual Irish Experience

WHEN: Sunday, March 11, 11am-5pm WHERE: Hofstra University, Physical Education Center, North Campus, Hempstead Turnpike, Hempstead AGES: All WHAT: There will be a number of music and dance performances throughout the day, as well as a variety of vendors with Irish products and food. All net proceeds benefit The Hofstra University Scholarship Fund. WANT TO GO? $6; $5 seniors; free for children younger than 12. 516463-6582. hofstrauniversity.edu.

St. Patrick’s Day Fun FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, March 14, 4:30pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Stories, activities, and a craft to celebrate this very popular day. WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

St. Patrick’s Day Pretzel Bark FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 17, 2pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Levittown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Create a pretzel bark using chocolate, candy, and sprinkles. WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

‘The Gingerbread Man and the Leprechaun Loose at School’ Storytime FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 17, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 1542 Northern Blvd., Manhasset AGES: 3-5 WHAT: A mischievous leprechaun is causing all kinds of trouble at school, but Gingerbread Man is back to save the day. WANT TO GO? 516-365-6723. barnesandnoble.com.

The Chieftains

WHEN: Saturday, March 17, 8pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the six-time Grammy Award winners. WANT TO GO? $45. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

‘Little Blue Truck’s Springtime’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 24, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 1542 Northern Blvd., Manhasset AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Celebrate the beauty of springtime with Little Blue Truck. WANT TO GO? 516-365-6723. barnesandnoble.com.

‘The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical’

WHEN: Sunday, March 25, 2pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: All WHAT: Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school… again. And that’s the least of his troubles. The Lightning Thief is an action-packed musical with heroic battles and mythical beasts. WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

‘A Year with Frog and Toad’

SHOW TIME! The Magic of Alexo

WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 2pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy the spellbinding magic of the great Alexo. WANT TO GO? $11. 516-775-4420. broadhollow.org.

‘Sleeping Beauty’

WHEN: Feb. 23-March 3, Saturday-Sunday, 11am WHERE: The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Based on the original Brothers Grimm story, it’s a tale of a beautiful princess, a sleeping enchantment, and a handsome prince come to life. WANT TO GO? $12. 516-599-6870. plazatheatrical.com.

‘My Fair Lady’

WHEN: Through March 4: Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2:30pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: The tale of a cockney flower girl transformed into an elegant lady features one of musical theater’s greatest scores, including “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?,” “With a Little Bit of Luck,” “The Rain in Spain,” “I Could Have Danced All Night,” and “On the Street Where You Live.” WANT TO GO? $11. 516-775-4420. broadhollow.org.

‘Mouse on the Move’

WHEN: March 6-7, Tuesday-Wednesday, 10:15am and 12pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Two adventurous mice are ready to explore the moon since (they believe) it is cat-free and made entirely of delicious, mouthwatering cheese. WANT TO GO? $9 with museum admission: $13; $12 theater only; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5828. licm.org.

‘Celebrity Autobiography’

WHEN: Friday, March 9, 8pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Audiences will leave the show asking “Did those celebrities really write that?” The answer is: You could not make this stuff up! Starring Ralph Macchio, Jackie Hoffman, Gina Gershon, Richard Kind, Dayle Reyfel, and Eugene Pack. WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 516-767-1384. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

WHEN: Thursday, March 29, 1pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: The beloved story of two great friends, the cheerful and popular frog and the rather grumpy toad through four fun-filled seasons. WANT TO GO? $11. 516-775-4420. broadhollow.org.

Celtic Woman: 2018 Homecoming Tour

WHEN: Thursday, March 29, 7:30pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: 13 and older WHAT: A one-of-a-kind live act, Celtic Woman combines the country’s finest musical talents with epic stage production to present a uniquely inspiring live experience. WANT TO GO? $43 and up. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

‘Peter Rabbit’

WHEN: March 17-April 7, Saturdays, 2pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: Peter Rabbit disregards his mother’s advice and he and his cousin Benjamin venture into a world filled with excitement, adventure, and scrumptious vegetables: Farmer McGregor’s garden. WANT TO GO? $11. 516-775-4420. broadhollow.org.

LITTLE FOODIES Dr. Seuss’s Birthday Celebration with Chefs of d’Future FREE WHEN: Thursday, March 8, 4:15pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Make green eggs and ham in honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday. WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Cooking New Orleans Style with Chef Ivan from Nawlins Seafood Company FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, March 20, 2:30pm WHERE: Freeport Public Library, 144 W. Merrick Road, Freeport AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn how to make cuisine from the Big Easy. WANT TO GO? 516-379-3274. freeportlibrary.info.

Turn Your Picky Eater into a Healthy Eater FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, March 21, 7pm WHERE: Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh AGES: Adult WHAT: Discover strategies to help picky eaters to start loving a variety of foods. WANT TO GO? 516-221-1200. wantaghlibrary.org. ›› LongIslandParent 41

Conservation Kids: Ocean Conservation

WHEN: Saturday, March 24, 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching & Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Help protect the animals in the oceans by creating your own recycled turtle bank and learn how to keep our oceans clean. WANT TO GO? $14. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

CRAFTY KIDS Kids Workshop FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 9am-12pm WHERE: Home Depot, 600 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: 5-12 WHAT: All kids get to keep their craft and receive a free Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin, and certificate of achievement. WANT TO GO? 516-488-8500. homedepot.com.

Crafts For Kids FREE

WHEN: March 3-4, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm WHERE: Lakeshore Learning Store, 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Kids will have a ball making exciting crafts they can use or display. Every craft is educational and fun. WANT TO GO? 516-616-9360. lakeshorelearning.com.

stART (Story + Art)

WHEN: Tuesday, March 13, 11:30am WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join in each week to read childhood classics and introduce new favorites, followed by a book-inspired craft to take home. WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13, $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Messy Afternoons

WHEN: Saturday, March 17, 3:30pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: We’ll be up to our elbows in oobleck, clean mud, and slime. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Joy of Watercolor

Family Sundays at the Museum

WHEN: Through March 25: Sundays, 1pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Be inspired by the works in the galleries and explore new art materials. Family Sunday allows children and the adults in their lives to take time to reconnect while talking about and making art together. WANT TO GO? $12; $8 seniors; $4 children ages 4-12; $2 weekend parking fee. 516-484-9338. nassaumuseum.org.

Fri-Yay Art Day!

WHEN: Through March 30: Fridays, 1pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Under the guidance of Deanna DelSanto, young children and their adult companions investigate color, shape, form, and more with hands-on activities. WANT TO GO? $5 with admission: $12; $8 seniors; $4 children ages 4-12; $2 weekend parking fee. 516-484-9338. nassaumuseum.org.

Studio Saturdays

WHEN: March 3-31, Saturdays, 11am-3pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Spend up to an hour exploring a range of materials, techniques, and themes before continuing your exploration out into our lush grounds filled with trails, a sculpture park and gardens. WANT TO GO? $12; $8 seniors; $4 children 4-12. 516-484-9337. nassaumuseum.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME Dr. Seuss Celebration FREE

WHEN: Thursday, March 1, 4pm WHERE: Bellerose Library, 250-06 Hillside Ave., Bellerose AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with stories, games, and crafts. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8644. queenslibrary.org.

Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! FREE

WHEN: Monday, March 19, 10am WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Enter the exciting world of watercolor painting with Julie Van Benthyusen. Learn to communicate what you sense and feel about the world you see. WANT TO GO? $16. 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

WHEN: Friday, March 2, 6:30pm WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 1542 Northern Blvd., Manhasset AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Join in for story time, games, and activities in celebration of the beloved author’s birthday. WANT TO GO? 516-365-6723. barnesandnoble.com.

Learn to Draw with Art Teacher Amy FREE

‘Pete The Cat’ Celebration FREE

WHEN: Friday, March 23, 4-5pm WHERE: Seaford Public Library, 2234 Jackson Ave., Unit A., Seaford AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Draw the Lorax from the Dr. Seuss book and paint in watercolors. WANT TO GO? 516-221-1334. seafordlibrary.org. 42

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 10:30am WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy stories, games, and a craft based on the Pete The Cat books. WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 1542 Northern Blvd., Manhasset AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Join us for storytime featuring this classic tale of a voracious caterpillar who eats his way through the days of the week and then changes into a beautiful butterfly. WANT TO GO? 516-365-6723. barnesandnoble.com.

Story Time & Craft with John Contratti ‘Mr. C Takes Manhattan’ FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 4, 11:30am WHERE: The Dolphin Bookshop & Cafe, 299 Main St., Port Washington AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Elementary school teacher and local author John Contratti and the gang are back for an exciting adventure to the Big Apple! Join Scottie, Cynthia, and the rest of the class as they travel through the city and learn about famous places. WANT TO GO? 516-767-2650. thedolphinbookshop.com.

‘The Magician’s Hat’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 10, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 1542 Northern Blvd., Manhasset AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Kids discover something better than they can imagine: books that help them become whatever they want to be. Activities to follow. WANT TO GO? 516-365-6723. barnesandnoble.com.

Book Chat: ‘Sisters in Law’ FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, March 14, 1:30pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Levittown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The relationship between Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg—Republican and Democrat, Christian and Jew, western rancher’s daughter and Brooklyn girl—transcends party, religion, region, and culture. WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Read To A Dog FREE

WHEN: March 8-15, Thursdays, 3:30pm WHERE: North Hills Library, 57-04 Marathon Parkway, Little Neck AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children can select a book to read aloud to Jami, who is a certified therapy pet partner. Reading aloud improves literacy skills, and animals are ideal reading companions because they create a relaxed, comfortable, and safe environment. WANT TO GO? 718-225-3550. queenslibrary.org.

Hear It! See It! Draw It!

WHEN: March 6-27, Tuesdays, 9:30am WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children and their adult companions share story time followed by a walk through the gallery and drawing activities inspired by illustrations in our story book and the art on view. WANT TO GO? $5 with museum admission: $12; $8 seniors; $4 children ages 4-12. 516-484-9337. nassaumuseum.org.

‘The Duckling Gets a Cookie!?’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 31, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 1542 Northern Blvd., Manhasset AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Duckling asks for a cookie and gets it. How do you think Pigeon feels about that? WANT TO GO? 516-365-6723. barnesandnoble.com.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Broadway Family Expo FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 3, 12-5pm WHERE: Broadway Commons, 358 N. Broadway Mall, Hicksville AGES: All WHAT: Visit to enjoy a bounce house, face painting, entertainment, food sampling, and kid-friendly vendors. WANT TO GO? 516-621-1446. specialtyconnections.com.

Camellia Festival

WHEN: Sunday, March 4, 11am-4pm WHERE: Planting Fields Arboretum, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a watercolor workshop, Madder Hatter’s Tea Party, magic show, live music, and more. WANT TO GO? $10. 516-922-8678. plantingfields.org.

Purim Carnival

WHEN: Sunday, March 4, 11am-1pm WHERE: Temple Israel of Lawrence, 140 Central Ave., Lawrence AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Family Purim Carnival for the community, among the many exciting activities with games, an obstacle course, face painting, crafts, a guessing contest, prizes, balloons, and more. Kosher food will be available for purchase. WANT TO GO? $10. 516-239-1140. tilny.org.

Carnival for a Cure

WHEN: Sunday, March 4, 1-4pm WHERE: Dave & Buster’s, 1504 Old Country Road, Westbury AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a day of family fun while helping in the fight against diabetes. Play the latest arcade games, bowl, shoot pool, bounce on inflatables, and win prizes. WANT TO GO? $50 and up. 516-822-1700. diabetesresearch.org.

20th Annual Irish Experience

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Nature Walk: Winter Birding

MINI

MUSICIANS Lucky Diaz and Family Jam Band

WHEN: Sunday, March 4, 11:30am and 2pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Get ready for a dance party, explosion of indie fresh pop rock beats. WANT TO GO? $9 with museum admission: $13; $12 theater only; free children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Music at the Mansion: Jason and Elysa Hochman

WHEN: Friday, March 16, 7pm WHERE: Planting Fields Arboretum, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay AGES: All WHAT: The duo will perform a repertoire of their original compositions and their own unique arrangements of renowned guitar pieces. WANT TO GO? $30. 516-922-8678. plantingfields.org.

Belle Sylvester Memorial Recital Series: Olga Vinokur, piano FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 18, 2:30pm WHERE: Freeport Public Library, 144 W. Merrick Road, Freeport AGES: All WHAT: Pianist Olga Vinokur presents a program of Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff. She will be joined by her 10-year-old son for piano duets. WANT TO GO? 516-379-3274. freeportlibrary.info.

Classical Guitar Performance by Bill Zito

WHEN: Sunday, March 18, 4pm WHERE: Rock Hall Museum, 199 Broadway, Lawrence AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Enjoy an intimate concert by renowned guitarist Bill Zito. WANT TO GO? $20; $16 members and seniors. 516-239-1157. friendsofrockhall.org.

The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York: Suffolk Choirs

WHEN: Sunday, March 18, 4pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York performs with the Suffolk Treble Choir, Concert Choir, and Symphonic Choir. WANT TO GO? $25. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

Dvorak and Brahms

WHEN: Saturday, March 24, 8pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Sarah Miller performs with The South Shore Symphony. WANT TO GO? $20. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

WHEN: Saturday, March 17, 10am WHERE: Sagamore Hill NHS, 20 Sagamore Hill Road, Oyster Bay AGES: All WHAT: A volunteer naturalist will lead a nature walk to Eel Creek to observe winter birds. WANT TO GO? $10; free for children 15 and younger. 516-922-4788. nps.gov/sahi.

Sunday Science: What Lives in the Pond?

WHEN: Sunday, March 18, 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching & Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre AGES: 5-12 WHAT: The Tanglewood Pond is a big, thriving ecosystem, but have you ever wondered what lies beneath the surface? Grab a net and a magnifying glass to find out. WANT TO GO? $14. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

Kitchen Garden Planting

WHEN: Wednesday, March 21, 10am WHERE: Rock Hall Museum, 199 Broadway, Lawrence AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Kitchen gardens were vital to the recipes of early America, providing herbs, spices, and greens used in most dishes. Adults will learn about the cold weather planting of seeds and crops, as the museum prepares its garden for the year. WANT TO GO? $15; prepayment requested. 516-239-1157. friendsofrockhall.org.

Get Fit with Tennis

WHEN: Saturday, March 24, 10am WHERE: Northeast Park, 100 Parsons Ave., Freeport AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Join the Freeport Public Library for a fun-filled morning that will include a story time followed by some tennis. WANT TO GO? $25. 516-379-3274. freeportlibrary.info.

Winter Programs and Events

WHEN: Through March 31: Saturdays, 10-11:30am; Sundays, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Jones Beach State Park Nature Center, 1 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: Seal walks meet at the Jones Beach Nature Center. Then go to Field 10 after sign-in and a short presentation at the Nature Center. WANT TO GO? $4. 516-780-3295. parks.ny.gov.

Coming up next month: APRIL 7-8: Disney Live! Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic at NYCB Live! Home of the Nassau Memorial Coliseum, Uniondale APRIL 14: The Wizard of Oz at Tilles Center for the Performing Arts at LIU Post, Brookville APRIL 21-MAY 12: Aladdin at BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, Elmont

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

things to do

where-to guide

Spring into March ✿ ✿

Spring is just around the corner and there are so many ways to enjoy the (hopefully) warmer weather, even if it’s still cold. One of our favorite late winter/early spring activities is maple sugaring—after all, there’s nothing quite like making your own maple syrup straight from the tree. This is also a great time of the year to get back outside and help out around your community by volunteering. Or, if it is still too cold to be outside, you can take an educational trip to a museum or bookstore. Here’s to a new season!

MAPLE SUGARING

Hoyt Farm 200 New Highway, Commack 631-543-7804; smithtownny.gov Maple Sugaring: Through March 11: Sundays, 1:30-3pm Native American and Colonial techniques will be demonstrated to produce maple syrup. Visitors will learn how to make equipment, identify and tap trees, and get to taste the syrup. $3; no reservations required.

VOLUNTEER

✿✿

Clark Botanic Garden 193 I. U. Willets Road, Albertson 516-484-2208; clarkbotanic.org Clark Botanic Garden needs individuals who enjoy gardening, working outdoors, and designing displays, as well as those with specific knowledge in horticulture and photography. Volunteers ages 16 and older can take visitors on tours and help with cleanup, basic plant maintenance, and most importantly, weeding. For more information, call Carol Murphy at 516-484-2208. Find more>> volunteer opportunities on Long Island at nymetroparents.com/volunteer.

Rod Leonhard

Compiled by Samantha Neudorf

Find more>> maple-sugaring activities on Long Island at nymetroparents.com/maple-sugaring.

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This Grumman F-11A Tiger, developed in Bethpage in 1954, hangs in the Cradle of Aviation Museum’s visitor center atrium.

BOOKSTORES

The Dolphin Bookshop 299 Main St., Port Washington 516-767-2650; thedolphinbookshop.com This spacious, independent shop attracts local and new visitors through the strength of its author and celebrity book signings (it has hosted JK Rowling and Eric Carle at past events!). It also helps foster a love of reading through the School Author Program, which arranges author visits to local schools. There is a book reading and craft every Sunday at 11:30am, and a sing-along for young children on Fridays at 11am.

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Find more>> kids’ bookstores on Long Island at nymetroparents.com/bookstores.

MUSEUMS

Cradle of Aviation Museum 1 Davis Ave. (across from Mitchel Athletic Complex), Garden City 516-572-4111; cradleofaviation.org Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9:30am-5pm Admission: $15; $13 children and seniors. Theater combo tickets: $20; $18 children and seniors. The museum features more than 75 air- and spacecrafts from hot air balloons to an actual Lunar Module, Long Island’s only giant screen theater that houses the Jet Blue Sky Theater Planetarium and the National Geographic Dome Theater, and Nunley’s Carousel. Find more>> children’s museums on Long Island at nymetroparents.com/museums.

family life finances

Make Filing Less Taxing These smart moves can minimize your payout—or score you a sweet refund.

ax season is here again. Will you end up forking over fistfuls of cash, or hardly feeling any financial pain? The answer may depend on how savvy you are. Take advantage of all the deductions and credits you’re eligible for, and you can save up to thousands of dollars, and in some cases even get money back. Overlook these tax breaks, though, and the opposite will happen: You’ll end up forfeiting money that’s rightfully yours. A good tax professional can help make sure you’re minimizing your payout. (Tax-prep software is another popular alternative.) And be aware of the credits and deductions listed here. While they may not be a comprehensive rundown of every last way you can reduce your taxes, they’re a good start.

Getting Credit Where It’s Due

One of the best ways to minimize your tax burden is by looking for credits you’re eligible to take—these reduce the amount of taxes you owe. Listed here are some tax credits that are particularly helpful for families. The Child and Dependent Care Credit: “This is designed to provide a tax benefit for homes in which both parents work fulltime or have earned income,” says Nicholas Sher, CPA, managing director of Sher & Associates, LLC, a boutique tax planning firm 46

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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By Deborah Skolnik

in midtown Manhattan. At the federal level, the credit is at least 20 percent of the first $3,000 of child care expense per child, for a maximum of two children. At the state level, you will receive a credit of at least 20 percent of the federal level. That means if you spend $3,000 on your child’s care you can save a minimum of $840 total—useful when you’re raising a family. Note: This credit is not available to a spouse who stays at home and doesn’t earn income. Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Didn’t have a great year financially? The EITC may be the break you need. This federal tax credit is available to people who have earned an income below a certain threshold, and it increases in relation to the amount of children in the home, up to a maximum of three kids, Sher explains. You can’t have earned very much—for instance, a married couple filing jointly, with three or more children, must have an earned income and adjusted gross income (that’s the total income you report that is eligible to be taxed, minus some adjustments you’re allowed to make) of each less than $53,930. But the credit can be sizeable: a maximum of $6,318. What’s scary is that according to Jackson Hewitt, nearly 1 in 5 eligible Americans fails to claim this tax credit, leaving up to thousands of dollars on the table. Even if you haven’t qualified for the EITC before, don’t forget to check with your tax professional to see if

you qualify this time: nearly one-third of all people who can claim it are newly eligible each year. The Saver’s Credit or Retirement Savings Contribution Credit: Have you been putting away money for your retirement? You deserve a pat on the back. And, depending on what you earn, the government wants to give you something more: a tax credit. If you’re married or filing jointly and make an income of $62,000 or less, you may be eligible for a credit of between 10-50 percent of your contributions to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or an employer-sponsored retirement savings program. If you’re filing as the head of household, you may be eligible for the credit if you earned $46,500 or less, Sher says.

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Making Clever Deductions

In addition to tax credits, stay on the lookout for deductions you can take. A deduction reduces your taxable income, which increases the chances of a lower overall tax bill. Read on; some of the ones listed here might apply to you. Medical expenses: Does someone in your family require extensive medical care? If your medical expenses exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income, you may be eligible for a deduction, says Rebecca Walser, a tax attorney, certified financial planner, and the author of Wealth Unbroken, but you must itemize your deductions in this case. New-mom gear, such as breast pumps and lactation equipment, can be included. And if you pay tuition for special education for a child with special needs, that too can be deductible if the curriculum is considered medically necessary, Sher says. (This is a highly scrutinized deduction, so check with your tax pro before you take it.) Going forward, consider funding a Health Savings Account, says Mark Kohler, a senior tax advisor with TaxSlayer, a tax preparation and financial technology company. The money you deposit in the account both grows tax-free and comes out tax-free for qualified family medical expenses. You also get a tax deduction for contributions on your tax return. Health insurance, if you’re your own boss: “If you are selfemployed you can deduct one hundred percent of the cost of health insurance for yourself,” Walser says. Moving expenses: It’s the rare family that doesn’t move at some point, but are the expenses related to a relocation deductible? It depends, Sher says. “You must move more than fifty miles away, and you must remain employed for thirty-nine weeks of the next fifty-two week period,” he explains. FYI, this is the last year that this deduction can be taken; it’s being swept away for 2018 with the new tax reforms we’ve all heard so much about. Job-hunting expenses: Like medical expenses, these need to be itemized. And you will have to have launched a truly extensive search for new employment: You aren’t eligible for a deduction unless the costs exceeded 2 percent of your AGI. New York state 529 plan contributions: “Anyone who is making a New York state 529 plan contribution should be taking the eligible deduction, which is up to ten thousand dollars for a married couple filing jointly,” Sher says. Though this account has been used to save for children’s college tuition up until now, beginning in 2018 contributions can also be used toward private school tuition. Want more pointers? Consult your favorite tax professional. He or she can help you formulate a strategy to make tax time far less taxing on your family.

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Experts suggest swapping out bath towels every few days, which means more frequent towel loads in the wash.

Spring Clean It!

››

Places in your home you should be cleaning on a regular basis, but likely aren’t—plus a few insider tips and tricks By Katelin Walling

leaning. To a lot of us, that’s as bad as a four-letter word. I was a housekeeper at an inn in high school and got the satisfaction of cleaning a space to shine, but—to this day—I have never been a fan of the actual process. Even some cleaning experts feel the same way: “I really hate cleaning,” says Melissa Maker, a Toronto, Ontario-based cleaning expert, host of the Clean My Space YouTube channel, and author of Clean My Space: The Secret to Cleaning Better, Faster—and Loving Your Home Every Day. “But I love the benefits of living in a clean space.” Heck, with kids, keeping up with the laundry is almost more than we can handle sometimes. So, if you’re like us—not fans of cleaning, but love having a clean space—you know you have to take out the broom and duster regularly to ensure your home is presentable for play dates and dinner guests without a last-minute, frenzied cleaning session. But did you know you’re likely missing some spots that should be cleaned more often than not? We got the inside scoop from cleaning experts and enthusiasts on the areas we need to pay a little more attention to when we have the cleaning products out.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Remember: These aren’t commandments—we certainly aren’t likely to keep up with most of this as often as we should—just recommendations for a cleaner, healthier home.

Bathroom

The area around the toilet: “People often clean in the toilet, but they don’t clean the base or the area behind the toilet,” Maker says. “And over time, that can get really gross, especially if you have individuals in the home who stand up to pee instead of sit down to pee.” So whenever you clean the inside of your toilet, spray a disinfectant or all-purpose cleaner around the base and wipe it clean. Toilet handle: Speaking of missed spots on the toilet, do you regularly, consciously sanitize the flush handle on the toilet? Didn’t think so. Spray it with your preferred cleaner and wipe it down—but please do this before wiping the floor around the toilet, or else use a fresh cleaning cloth. Medicine cabinet: Because it’s a high-traffic area in the house we don’t typically think of cleaning, it can get quite

messy, says Christine Dimmick, author of Detox Your Home: Removing Toxins and Improving Your Life, which is set to be released in early April, and founder of The Good Home Company, a Manhattan-based home care and laundry product line that is paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalate-free. We access our medicine cabinets at least twice a day (when we’re getting ready for work and school in the morning and when we’re getting ready for bed at night), so a lot of water gets in there—and water is the first thing to grow bacteria. Dimmick suggests attacking the medicine cabinet once a month—and her all-purpose cleaners of choice are a mixture of white vinegar and water, or castile soap. And while you’re at it, check the expiration dates on your medicine and beauty products and dispose of them correctly. Ceiling vent: “If you don’t clean that, it becomes very noisy when it’s on, and it doesn’t remove moisture effectively,” Maker says. The easiest way to clean it, she adds, is to give it a quick vacuum with the brush attachment. Bath towels, bathmats, and bathrobes: While you won’t necessarily have to do two towel loads in the wash each week—let’s face it, our linen closets are overstuffed with towels and washcloths—your bath towel should be replaced halfway through the week, according to Mary Gagliardi, aka Dr. Laundry for Clorox, whose background is in textile science and research and development at Clorox. And every time you wash a load of towels, go ahead and throw in the bathrobes and bathmats because, as Gagliardi says, they’re used similarly and as often as bath towels. While you’re at it, just find all the towels currently in use in the house and add them to the wash, too—we’re looking at you, kitchen towels. Gagliardi suggests washing these in bleach to properly disinfect them, after testing the fabrics to make sure they’re bleach-fast. To test, mix 2 teaspoons of bleach with ¼ cup of water, put a drop of the solution on a hidden part of the fabric, let it sit for a minute, and rinse it and blot dry with towel. If the color didn’t change, you can use regular bleach on the item; otherwise go for color-safe bleach. Toothbrush holder: This is a small thing that is usually overlooked and it has a lot of germs around it, says Jim Ireland, founder of White Glove Elite, a cleaning service in New York City. And it’s one I can attest to after a particularly bad college roommate experience. Let’s just say I always kept my toothbrush separate. So do everyone—and your mouth—a favor and clean the toothbrush holder before it even starts to look grimy.

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Shower curtains / vinyl liners: Cloth shower curtains should be washed once a year to freshen them up because things can splash on them. Meanwhile vinyl shower curtains or shower curtain liners should be washed once or twice a year in the washing machine with ½ cup of bleach to keep mold and mildew under control, Gagliardi says. And go ahead and pull the curtain closed after your shower so the liner fully air-dries. This small step also keeps your bathroom looking neat.

Bedrooms

Bed sheets: You’re tossing and turning, sweating, and shedding hair and skin cells in your sleep. So regardless of whether you shower at night, sheets should be changed weekly. And in terms of washing them, Gagliardi says she believes they should be bleached—but perform a bleach-ability test on them first! If they fail the bleachability test, then wash them in the hottest water possible to properly continued on next page ››

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clean and sanitize them. While you’re at it, gather the throw blankets from the living room and wash those, too.

dampened cloth when you do your regular dusting, or regularly spray your plants.

Mattresses: Maintaining your mattress is really important; after all we spend approximately one-third of our lives sleeping! The best way to clean your mattress, Maker says, is to strip the sheets off it, sprinkle baking soda on it, let the baking soda sit for 30 minutes, and then vacuum it off. This will neutralize any odors. Once the mattress is vacuumed, place a waterproof mattress protector on it and your sheets as normal. Maker also says rotating your mattress two to four times a year is key, so why not clean it at the same time?

Points of contact: We’re talking all over the house here. Bathroom and kitchen cabinet handles, doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, tablets, phones, anything you and your family touch on a daily basis. These points of contact are how germs are transferred from person to person, so these are areas to be particularly mindful about cleaning, Maker says. “You can take a disinfectant and spray those points of contact as long as they don’t have electricity associated with them, you can let that product sit for a minute or two, and then wipe it,” she says. If the point of contact does have an electric component, Maker suggests spraying a cloth with a cleaner or rubbing alcohol and wiping it down.

Under the bed: It’s a big one, according to Dimmick. A lot of dust can quickly accumulate there, “and by cleaning that, you can solve a lot of your allergy issues, or not sleeping well at night,” she says. Closets: At least twice a year—but ideally after each season— go through your closets and get rid of any seasonal pieces you didn’t wear that season, suggests Tova Weinstock, aka Tidy Tova, a professional organizer and cleaning enthusiast based in New York City. For example, now that spring is upon us, go through your winter sweaters and donate the ones you weren’t compelled to wear. “Even with people I work with, if they’re debating whether to get rid of a springy shirt, I’ll say, ‘why don’t you keep it and if you don’t wear it this season, then let go of it,’” Weinstock says. Once you’ve gone through everything and the closet is empty, sweep and dust in there and then put everything back in an organized fashion—and the same goes for the drawers in your dresser. Stuffed animals: These get a lot of love from young children, so they regularly need a freshening up. These can be vacuumed or go in the washing machine (if it’s okay for the lovie) as often as you can get them away from your kids—once a year at the very least.

Common Rooms

Ceiling fans: The tops of the fan blades can get particularly dusty—out of sight, out of mind. When I moved into my first apartment in New York City, my dad, who sees all those out-ofsight places because he’s 6-foot-4, wiped down the fan blades in my room—and you wouldn’t believe the amount of caked-on dust that came off. I only wish I had known Ireland’s trick: Every few months, dampen a pillowcase, put it over each blade so the fan blade is encased, and slide the pillowcase off so the dust stays inside the pillowcase. Pet food bowls: If you feed your dog or cat wet food, chances are you regularly wash their bowls to clean off dried-on food. But what about dry food bowls? “A lot of times people have dogs where the food never gets eaten all the way or the cat food is always in there, so it’s nice if once a week you can wash them with soapy water, rinse them, and sanitize them,” Gagliardi advises. Houseplants: We don’t typically think of plants getting dusty, but they do. “We tend to overlook them until we notice them, and we tend to brush the dust off with our hands, but the oil from our hands is not friendly to plants,” Ireland says. So use a water50

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Litter boxes: While we regularly clean out the litter boxes and refresh the litter, how often do we actually wash the litter box? Probably not often enough. “We have a recommendation for deodorizing litter boxes, where you remove the cat litter and clean the litter box with soapy water, let it soak with a half cup of bleach per gallon of water for five minutes, and rinse it and let it air dry,” Gagliardi suggests. “Put the cat litter back in and that will keep litter boxes smelling much, much better.” Baseboards, crown molding, and heat registers / return vents: Dust builds up on these. Weinstock, Maker, and Gagliardi all suggest vacuuming them a few times a year with the brush attachment—or stay on top of it by cleaning them every time you vacuum the carpets.

Kitchen

Overhead exhaust: The purpose of the overhead exhaust is to suck the greasy vapor out of your kitchen, according to Maker. “On its way up, the vapor leaves behind a significant amount of grease, and as it builds up, it becomes sticky, it becomes rancid, and you really do need to give it a good clean,” she says. Maker recommends you fill up a bucket with hot water and a scoop of oxygen bleach powder, soak it for about 10 minutes, dry it, and put it back up. You may need to give it a bit of a scrub, she cautions. Potholders: “People never wash those, and they don’t necessarily hold up well to washing,” Gagliardi says. “But if they’re so dirty that you shouldn’t be using them anyway and you wash them and they don’t necessarily have good dimensional stability, then it was time to replace them.” Just be careful when laundering potholders, as they tend to bleed color. Soak them in water first to see how much color runs off; that way you won’t have dye transfer onto other items, Gagliardi advises. Under the sink: This area tends to become a hotspot for junk, cleaning products, plastic shopping bags, and sometimes bits of trash that miss the garbage can (that is, if you keep the garbage can under the sink). So every now and then, dive in and take everything out, give it a good wipe, and, as Maker recommends, “put in a shelf liner because it can become very wet under there and you can ruin the base of the cabinet.” Then put back only the items you need. Now that we think about it, tackle the cabinet under the sink in the bathroom, too.

Garbage cans and recycling bins: We all regularly take out the garbage and recycling—at the very least when it’s trash day—but cleaning the receptacles themselves is often left undone. Gagliardi suggests disinfecting these once a month, especially if drink cans aren’t rinsed out before going in there. To keep them disinfected and deodorized, she suggests washing them with soapy water, then letting them soak in a solution of ½ cup of bleach per ¾ gallon of water for 5 minutes, rinsing it, and letting it air dry. Alternatively, Ireland suggests using a trash can as a bucket when mopping the floors, which will clean it too. Inside the microwave: When food is nuked in the microwave, it can splatter, “and most people will leave it for a week, but would you leave food stains or dried up food on your counter for a week? Probably not,” Dimmick says. She suggests cleaning the microwave daily with a mixture of vinegar and water. Meanwhile Weinstock suggests heating up water in the microwave to create a steam, which will loosen up caked-on food, making it easier to wipe off. Sponges: These can get smelly fast. Rather than throwing them out frequently, every time you run your dishwasher, Gagliardi suggests tossing them in, too. And for a deeper clean, she says you can soak them in a solution of ½ cup of bleach per gallon of water for 5 minutes, rinse them, and let them air dry. For a cleaning double-whammy, get your sponge wet and microwave it on high for 2 minutes, then carefully remove it. This deodorizes and disinfects your sponge, Ireland says, and the steam makes it easier to clean the microwave. The warming drawer in the oven: People tend to use this little drawer under the oven as storage for baking sheets and think nothing of it since it’s not being used for food. But if you remove everything, “you’ll see it’s just full of crumbs, so every now and then its important to take everything out,” Maker says. “You can use the brush attachment on the vacuum to clean it out, and once you vacuum out the crumbs, spray it and wipe it out, and replace only the items you need.” Coffee pot and coffee grinder: Ireland suggests these be cleaned once a month. Run the coffee maker with a solution that is 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water. Then, for insulated coffee urns that are difficult to clean, he suggests dropping a denture-cleaning tab in with some hot water and letting that sit overnight, while regular pots can be hand washed with dish soap. And put a handful of uncooked rice in the grinder and grind it. This will clean the blades without needing to get it wet. Refrigerator: “You can still grow bacteria in there even though it’s cold,” Dimmick says. So she cleans out her fridge once a week. “It’s also a great time to do a deep dive and look at the expiration dates on condiments,” she adds. And make sure to get under the crisper drawers. “We spend a lot of time trying to keep odors out of the refrigerator, but a lot of times there’s stuff under the crisper drawers,” Ireland adds.

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With all of this in mind, Weinstock suggests creating a cleaning routine or schedule that is doable for you. “Try to get in the habit of doing certain tasks every day: sweeping, doing the dishes, wiping the counters,” she says. “And then set aside the time to actually clean, otherwise it gets so overwhelming.”

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Sleep Training 101

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How to get your infant to sleep through the night—and deal with sleep regression when it happens By Bethany Braun-Silva

hen I was pregnant with my first child the number of people who told me, “You will never sleep again,” was overwhelming. Cut to six years, a second child, and many sleepless nights later—though I’m sure I have actually slept—and I am, indeed, pretty darn tired. Fatigue certainly comes with the parenting territory, especially in the first few months of bringing home your newborn. But getting consistent sleep is extremely important, not only for your baby, but for you as a parent, too. That’s why sleep training your baby once she’s a few months old—that is, teaching her to fall asleep and stay asleep on her own—is a great way to ensure everyone is well rested, and, in turn, happy. There are several sleep-training techniques, but ultimately all of them lead to restful nights for the whole family.

Sleep-Training Methods Explained

You may have heard of the “Cry It Out” and “Ferberizing” sleep-training methods. Those are two of the most well-known approaches, but many different variations have been developed. Each technique involves a few (or a lot of) tears, and all differ slightly in terms of how present you are supposed to be and how much you comfort your child as he falls asleep and when he wakes up. Ingrid Prueher, founder of Ingrid Baby Sleep Whisperer (ingridbabysleepwhisperer.com) and a Fox & Friends sleep expert, 52

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

works with individual families to create a method that works for them, while other experts, such as Denise Stern, baby nurse, postpartum care expert, and founder of Let Mommy Sleep (an overnight, in-home, infant care service), use a practice called sleep helping. “It is a simple way to say that we very gradually increase feeding during the day while gradually decreasing feeds overnight,” Stern says. Whichever method you choose, take comfort in knowing a good night’s sleep isn’t too far off. Here is a cheat-sheet of common sleep-training methods that may work for your family: Cry It Out or CIO: This method involves going through a bedtime routine with your baby, then placing her in her crib, leaving the room, and not coming back until the morning—as long as your infant is safe. This will be, by far, the method that produces the most tears, although it has recently been deemed harmless by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Ferberizing: Developed by Richard Ferber, M.D., this technique is considered a gentler version of CIO. With this method, you check on your infant and console him after a few minutes of crying, increasing the amount of time between your visits to his room to check on him. The Chair Method: Parents who practice this approach go through the normal bedtime routine, place their baby in the crib,

and then sit in a chair next to the crib until she falls asleep. They do not console her with words or cuddles, only with their presence. Each night they move the chair farther and farther from the crib until they are out of the room. The Pick Up Put Down Method or PUPD: This gentle method allows parents to pick up their crying baby, soothe him, and then place him in his crib to sleep, repeating this all night until, eventually, baby sleeps through. The Fading Sleep Training Method: With this technique parents continue to help their baby fall asleep by rocking or feeding. Each day they do less and less to soothe their baby in the hopes that she will begin to soothe herself. This is a great option for parents who prefer a method with less crying.

Getting Started

It’s important not to rush sleep training. For his first few months of life, tend to your baby when he cries and soothe him with feedings, diaper changes, or cuddles. Before sleep training your infant, Prueher suggests that: • You have approval from your pediatrician • Your baby weighs close to 16 pounds • Your little one is close to 4 months of age. This is when a child’s biological clock forms, and you can use a biological sleep schedule as part of the process of teaching her to become an independent sleeper. If you can check off all three of those things, you can start sleep training your baby. “Lovingly teaching a child to sleep independently is about empowering the child to do what they have been born to do on their own. Children are born being able to sleep independently,” Prueher says. “In some cases, new parents just don’t know how to put a child to sleep and they feel their role as parents includes closing their child’s eyes for them. So, they resort to rocking, feeding to sleep, driving around, using a stroller during all sleep times.” But it doesn’t have to be that way. Babies are programmed to self-soothe; they just need a little push to get started. One of the most important things for parents to remember before getting started is, no matter what sleep-training method is used, there will be tears. But “sleep training should never be traumatizing, produce throwing up sessions, or make you feel like you are hurting your child,” Prueher says. Creating a plan and feeling secure in it will reduce the number of tears your child (and you) may shed. Like Prueher, Stern insists you get the “okay” from your pediatrician before starting to sleep train. Your baby needs to be able to go at least 8 hours without a feeding, and babies who were premature or who are gaining weight more slowly are not good candidates for sleep training at 4 months old. “A good rule of thumb is that when a baby is able to take in twenty-eight to thirty-two ounces between the hours of six am and ten pm, that’s usually enough to satiate them through the night, but it’s crucial to have baby’s primary care physician agree that it’s appropriate to begin sleep training,” Stern says. Remember: Just because you have successfully sleep trained your baby, it doesn’t mean he won’t wake up once or twice (or more) throughout the night. “It is very common for baby to

have periods of wakefulness and times when they need parents’ help,” Stern says.

Sleep Regression Tips and Tricks

If your baby, who was successfully sleeping through the night, starts waking more often, or staying awake for an extended period of time or for what seems to be no reason, she may be experiencing sleep regression. This can throw parents for a loop and often make them feel overwhelmed in having to go back to square one. Alice R., a Brooklyn mom, went through this when her son was 9 months old. “Ryan had been sleeping through the night since we sleep trained him at four months old,” she says. “We had five months of bliss, and then it was like we were hit with a bomb. He was waking up a few hours after being put down and nothing we did worked.” Alice says she felt desperate and contacted a sleep expert for advice. Two weeks after starting the sleep training process all over again, Ryan resumed sleeping through the night. “The Golden Rule for regression is consistency, consistency, consistency,” Stern says. “Simply continuing the methods that your child is already familiar with is the best way to minimize regression. It’s important to remember, too, that babies are smart. If you hold them to sleep for a few nights during illness, for example, that does not mean they forgot how to sleep independently when it’s time for them to go back to sleep in the crib.” While sleep regression may seem like it occurs out of the blue, chances are there is a very good reason your child is waking. Teething and physical milestones (sitting up, crawling, and standing), and general alertness all contribute to sleep regression. “No matter if they are ‘good’ or ‘bad’ sleepers, all little ones will wake when they’re experiencing teething pain or illness. Babies who are just learning to crawl and stand will also have fun in the overnight hours practicing their new skills,” Stern says. “In fact, many little ones just learning to walk will pull themselves up to a standing position in the crib and then call out to mom or dad because they are ‘stuck’ in the standing position!” If your baby is not sick, it’s okay to not rush into her room when she wakes in the middle of the night. Giving her a chance to fall asleep on her own, again, just reinforces the sleep training. In addition to maintaining normal bedtime routines, here are simple tips to combat sleep regression: • Provide extra comfort at bedtime in case separation anxiety is causing your child to wake up. • Remove all distractions, as lights and mobiles are not so useful during a period of sleep regression. • Make sure the room is a comfortable temperature, between 68 and 72 degrees. • Don’t form new “bad” habits such as rocking your baby or bringing him into bed with you. Remember this is a shortterm phase. Each family is different, and it is important to stay in tune with your baby’s needs, as they may change. Sleep training, whichever method you choose, is a great way to maintain a happy and healthy household. “We know the benefits of sleep can help our children live happier and healthier lives, so let’s make sleep a priority,” Prueher says. “It’s the best gift you can give your child, it will reward them forever.”

From our sponsors: The mission of Allied Foundation is to impact and improve the health and well-being of residents within Allied Physicians Group’s geographical footprint, which currently includes Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk), Queens, Brooklyn, Richmond, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange. The Allied Foundation funds community-based strategies and initiatives, including Breastfeeding Support (toll-free Support Line: 866-621-2769; Breast Milk Depots), Community Education (free app—AlliedPG—and lectures about such topics as ADHD, managing food allergies, behavioral health, and infant CPR), Early Childhood Literacy (proud partner of Reach Out and Read and The BookFairies); and Community Service (Diaper Bank of Long Island). For more information, visit alliedfoundation.org. LongIslandParent 53

raising kids teen

How to Raise a Take-Charge Teen ›› Help your kid learn to make his own decisions instead of just following the crowd.

lexa, 14, never had any interest in sports. Or gym, or even kicking a ball around the yard. Her mom, Laura Valsamachi, kept encouraging her to try something. Once she got into high school, a new option presented itself: golf. Alexa agreed to try it. She liked that it wasn’t a team sport, and the fact that it was walk-on, so her lack of athletic ability wouldn’t be on display during a tryout. Valsamachi completed the registration form, and Alexa took it to school the morning of the sign-up deadline. And she brought it back that afternoon. “Julia’s not doing it,” the Long Island freshman said, without looking at her mom. “Who’s Julia? And so what?” Valsamachi asked. “Julia, the one I told you is kind of popular?” Alexa reminded her. “She said she would do golf with me, but now she’s not, so…” Her voice trailed off, her earbuds went in, and that was that. While some teens seem to have no problem deciding what they want to do and sticking to it, plenty more struggle to think independently and make choices for themselves. Wanting the approval of others is natural to some extent, even for grownups, but needing it can be crippling. If your kid seems to show a tendency toward flip-flopping, read on for the lowdown on how to guide him or her toward confident decision-making.

The Why Behind Wishy-Washy Behavior

Is it typical for teens to be followers, changing their mind about extracurricular activities, clothes, hairstyles, and even what after54

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

By Christina Vercelletto

school jobs to apply for, based on what their peers are doing? In many cases, it’s not a sign of a long-term problem, but more of a phase. “A lot of this is normal and even developmentally healthy behavior,” insists Robi Ludwig, Psy.D., a psychotherapist in New York City. “Teens are still discovering who they are and what’s important to them, so changing what they want and how they want to present themselves is all a part of this,” she explains. Anecdotally, at least, girls seem more vulnerable than boys to deferring to friends on anything and everything. “Most teenage girls want to be part of the pack. They want to blend in rather than stand out,” says Susan Groner, “The Parenting Mentor” and New York City-based author of Parenting: 101 Ways to Rock Your World. “While this may seem silly to us, there’s nothing wrong with it. You don’t need to worry that she’ll be like this forever. It’s a phase.” (If your child resists making any independent decisions at all, though, “there could be a mood or self-esteem issue going on,” cautions Dr. Ludwig, and in that case, checking in with a therapist would be a good idea.)

Encouraging Independence

Of course teens are not, as a group, big on taking what adults say as gospel. But there are ways we can get our teens to see the benefits of making their own decisions. Share a story of a time when being a follower backfired. Use articles, stories about people your child knows (with their

permission), and yes, even “when I was your age” stories to get your point across without being too heavy-handed about it, Dr. Ludwig recommends. After the golf incident, Valsamachi shared a personal story with Alexa that seemed to strike a chord: When she’d been a high-school senior, her best friend Maureen had decided that college was a waste of time, and had opted to go straight to work. Valsamachi, used to walking in lockstep with her BFF, decided to forgo college too. “I wound up getting my degree much later, but still wonder how my life would have been different,” she says. “Oh, and I haven’t spoken to Maureen since 1989.” Valsamachi resisted the urge to point out “Just like Julia and golf!” at the end of her story. It was just put out there for Alexa to interpret as she would. “And she did seem to absorb it, at least a little,” Valsamachi says. Keep it neutral. The main thing to guard against, says Dr. Ludwig, is coming across as preachy. Keep a neutral tone. “Teens who feel criticized or are concerned that they would disappoint their parents are often less comfortable sharing their thoughts,” agrees Wendy L. Moss, Ph.D., co-author, with Donald A. Moses, M.D., of Raising Independent, Self-Confident Kids. Be nonjudgmental. It often isn’t easy, but it can pay off. Rose Koehler’s daughter, Emily, wanted to apply to be a page at their local library on Long Island, but a friend convinced her to work with her at a fast-food restaurant instead. “Now, my daughter, who hates noise, rushing, and has been known to burst into tears if a soda splatters on her, working in a fast food restaurant…I knew this would not end well,” Koehler shares. “But I also knew that demanding she stick with her original plan wouldn’t either.” So Koehler stayed supportive, asking a question about the job now and then, but keeping it neutral. After about five weeks, Emily quit—but the page job had already been filled. “I just gave her a hug and said nothing. Definitely not ‘I told you so!’” Koehler says. While Emily never came out and said she should have made the decision that felt right to her in the first place, Koehler feels the lesson stuck. “She doesn’t seem as quick to yield to her friends’ opinions anymore,” she says.

You don’t need to discourage your teen from posting a picture or a comment he thinks will get a lot of positive attention, as long as it doesn’t hurt him in the short or long term, Dr. Ludwig says. “Connect it to long-term goals he may have for himself. If he posts in a certain way, explain how this can send the wrong message and hurt him down the line.” She also advises encouraging teens to think like a publicist. This is a concept most high-schoolers can readily grasp. If you were in charge of managing a client’s reputation, would you post this? Lynne Lincoln, a mother of two teens in New Rochelle, recalls the time her 16-year-old son, Daniel, posted several #foodstagram shots of the burger chain Shake Shack while on an outing to the city with a group of friends. When he came home starving, Lincoln asked, “I thought you had Shake Shack?” Daniel clarified: “Oh, I gave it to Ryan. I don’t eat that stuff. I would have rather had pizza, but nobody is going to follow an account that posts rando pizza. It’s hard to get melted cheese not to look gross.” Groner says what’s important is that teens are able to separate their online lives from their real ones. If they snap a selfie in front of the nowfamous statue of the little girl down on Wall Street, say, did they take the time to think about the art? “Next time your child posts, ask him about the experience,” she suggests. That will give you an idea of whether the experience drove the popular post, or the other way around. At the end of the day, Dr. Ludwig notes, the best thing you can do to help your child with decision-making—or anything, really— is to tune in to his needs. “Just plug into your child…Let them know you’re on their side and there for them if they need you,” she says. Christina Vercelletto is a former editor at NYMetroParents, Parenting, Scholastic Parent & Child, and Woman’s Day. She lives on Long Island with her kids, a chiweenie, Pickles, and a 20-pound calico, Chub-Chub.

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Let him practice. Have your teen be a part of the decision-making process for family matters, such as planning a vacation, choosing a family car, or even figuring out how to assist an aging grandparent. What you’re trying to do, Dr. Moss explains, is guide your child toward minimizing impulsive decisions in favor of the one that is actually best for the situation. And like any other learned skill, that takes practice. Brainstorm. “Crowd-sourcing” potential solutions to a problem your teen is having by bringing in the whole family—even favorite aunts, uncles, and cousins—lets him know that “family is like a team, stronger than any one member,” Dr. Moss says. What that does is shift the focus off of “mom or dad know best,” so your child is less likely to feel defensive. By seeing that her ideas are as good as anyone else’s, she’ll start to build confidence, and, over time, be less apt to fall into a “what they’re thinking must be better than what I’m thinking” mentality.

The Social Media Aspect

Social media doesn’t seem to make it any easier to convince a teen to think independently. After all, accruing likes and positive comments is the name of the game. But that in itself isn’t necessarily bad. “We all want to get positive responses to what we present to the world,” Dr. Ludwig notes.

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family life food & nutrition

Ultimate Green Smoothie and Oat and Kale Breakfast Biscuits

Top o’ the Morning to Ya!

››

Three easy green breakfasts kids will actually enjoy

ids can be fussy about fruits and vegetables, and we know how challenging it is to make sure they are eating the suggested amount of each every day. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and an optimal time to get in those fruits and veggies. Here are three easy green recipes from Eat More Greens by Zita Steyn to get them excited about breakfast. Bonus: They can’t be pinched if they eat this on St. Patrick’s Day!

Ultimate Green Smoothie

If you are not one for green smoothies in general, you should try this one. It is quite delicious and very virtuous. It helps having a highspeed blender, but if you don’t, just keep blending until the mixture is smooth. You will need to soak the almonds overnight, and if you struggle to buy frozen mango or pineapple, peel and chop up the fruit the night before and freeze it. Serves 2 to 3 Ingredients 1 lemon 1½ cups coconut water, preferably raw 3/ -inch piece ginger, peeled 8 and coarsely chopped Handful of almonds, soaked overnight, or for at least 6 hours, and rinsed

Big handful of kale, thick stalks discarded, leaves coarsely chopped or torn 1 tsp. green powder of your choice (optional) 1 ripe medium banana, cut or broken into chunks 1½-1¾ cups frozen fruit

Directions 1. C ut the lemon in half then cut a thick slice off one half. Chop this up roughly and place in a blender. Squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon halves and add, together with the coconut water, ginger, and almonds, to the blender. Blend until smooth. 2. Add the rest of the ingredients and blend until smooth and creamy. If your blender allows for the use of a tamper, it is a good idea to press the frozen fruits down into the blade to avoid uneven blending. 56

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Chard and Feta Savory Muffins

These muffins (not the eggs-Benedict-kind, but the Americanbaked-goods-kind) are great to take along to a picnic or as an after-school snack. Look for traditionally made, soft cooking chorizo that has no added nasties, and choose the mild version if you are feeding youngsters. If you are vegetarian, leave out the chorizo and fry the onion and chard in a little butter or coconut oil, but add another tsp of smoked paprika powder and perhaps a little more cayenne pepper. Makes 12 Ingredients 7 oz. traditionally made cooking chorizo (the soft kind), casings removed and broken into small pieces 1 medium onion, finely chopped 10½ oz. rainbow or Swiss chard, stalks chopped into small dice, leaves shredded into bite-size pieces Generous 2 cups whole-wheat spelt flour 1 Tbsp. baking powder 1½ tsp. smoked paprika

½ tsp. cayenne pepper (omit if using spicy chorizo or cooking for children) 1 cup parsley, leaves only, finely chopped 3 medium eggs 5/ cup whole milk or milk substitute 8 2 Tbsp. butter, coconut oil, or ghee, melted, plus extra for greasing Scant 12/3 cups feta cheese, crumbled Sea salt

Directions 1. S auté the chorizo in a hot, dry frying pan until the fat starts to render, then add the onion and cook until soft and translucent. Scrape the mixture into a bowl. 2. Add the chard stalks to the pan with a small pinch of salt. Cook until tender, for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on size. If they are drying out, add a splash or three of water to the pan. Add the chard leaves and cook for about a minute, or until wilted. 3. T ip all the chard into a food processor or onto a cutting board, and chop finely. Add this to the chorizo and onion mix, then set aside to cool. 4. P reheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 12-hole muffin tray or 2 smaller cupcake trays. 5. W hisk the flour, baking powder, and spices in a bowl and stir in the parsley. 6. W hisk the eggs, milk, and melted fat in a separate bowl or measuring cup, and pour into the dry ingredients along with the cooled chorizo and chard mixture, and the feta. Using a large spoon, mix only until just combined; do not overmix. Spoon into the greased muffin pans. 7. B ake in the oven for 25 minutes until golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean (allowing for patches of melted feta). Let cool in the trays for a couple of minutes before turning out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Oat and Kale Breakfast Biscuits

Always on the look-out for interesting meals to start the day with, I regularly make this for my family and friends. Nutritious, filling, and different yet familiar, it ticks all the boxes for a special breakfast dish. Being gluten-free, it is a very crumbly biscuit, but no less delicious for it. Instead of the kale and nutmeg, you could add lots of finely chopped chives and cayenne pepper, or a little goat cheese and chopped thyme leaves. Roughly chopped black olives and finely chopped rosemary make a good addition, too.

rinse) and blitz until very fine. Add the rest of the flakes and pulse a few times until the larger flakes are broken down slightly. Add the baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt, and pulse to mix. 4. Add the cubed butter or coconut oil and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Add the cooled kale and onion mixture, the chia seed gel, apple puree, and egg, and process until the mixtures comes together. It should be a little on the sticky side. 5. Using a spatula, scrape the dough out onto the lined baking sheet. Form into a square about ¾ inch thick, then score into 9 smaller squares, leaving them joined together. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden, rotating the sheet halfway through cooking. 6. Carefully slide a spatula under the biscuits to loosen them from the baking parchment, then separate the pieces using a knife, move them apart a little to give them some room and return to the oven for another 10-12 minutes, to crisp the edges. 7. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack. Serve with butter, hollandaise, and poached eggs for breakfast.

Recipes excerpted with permission from Eat More Greens by Zita Steyn, photography by Nassima Rothacker; published by Quadrille Publishing March 2017, RRP $24.99 hardcover.

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Makes 9 smallish biscuits Ingredients A little olive oil 1 small onion, diced 3½ oz. kale, stalks removed, roughly chopped 2 cups oat flakes (certified gluten-free if you are sensitive) 1 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. freshly grated nutmeg

Large pinch of sea salt 1 Tbsp. chia seeds, mixed with 2 Tbsp. water and stirred until a thick gel forms ½ cup cold butter (or firm coconut oil, hardened in the refrigerator), cut into small cubes ¼ cup apple puree or applesauce 1 egg, lightly whisked

Directions 1. P reheat the oven to 350°F and line a medium baking sheet with baking parchment. 2. Heat the olive oil in a pan, add the onion, and sweat over gentle heat until soft and translucent. Add the kale and sauté until tender and cooked, then process in a food processor, or chop very finely by hand, press out any moisture and set aside to cool completely. 3. Spoon half the oat flakes into the food processor (no need to

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SPECIAL NEEDS

LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW COHEN 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216, Manhattan 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high quality service at a reasonable cost. LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C. 534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child is entitled to under law. LIFE’S WORC THE FAMILY CENTER FOR AUTISM 1501 Franklin Ave., Garden City 516-741-9000 familycenterforautism.org The Family Center for Autism provides services and support for people with autism and their families. Programs include insurance services, birthday parties, art, music, sports and culinary classes, camps, parent and sibling programs, social events, vocational programs, and behavior intervention.

LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Queens: 718-640-6767 Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, along with her group of therapists, supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders. STEPS TO SOCIALIZATION 13 S. Bayles Ave., Port Washington 516-767-0266 Steps to Socialization was created to help children who have difficulty socializing. We teach children how to think socially, step by step. Working in small groups, we cover a variety of topics, including how to establish and maintain friendships and initiating and maintaining conversations. THERAPY & COUNSELORS DR. ELLEN T RICHER, EDUCATION CLINICIAN & COUNSELOR Convenient Long Island locations 347-668-3676 etrdream@aol.com We co-develop strategies to improve executive functioning, sensory processing, and social cognition challenges, and provide enrichment opportunities to engage and motivate highly capable yet underachieving children.

TUTORS & TEST PREP EYE LEVEL OF WILLISTON PARK Long Island 516-747-7700 eyelevelwillistonpark.com Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic education, Eye Level is the answer. Eye Level offers math and English programs for ages 3-12. MATHNASIUM LEARNING CENTERS Five Towns 414 Central Ave., Cedarhurst 516-569-1500 Great Neck 11 Great Neck Road, Great Neck 516-482-MATH (6284) Lynbrook 381 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-881-7997 New Hyde Park 810 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park 516-616-MATH (6284) Roslyn 217A Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights 516-484-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com Students go to Mathnasium year-round to catch up, keep up, and get ahead in math. Our instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop understanding and build a love for math. SYLVAN LEARNING CENTERS OF MINEOLA AND HUNTINGTON 393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 516-743-9943 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-424-5600 sylvanlearning.com sylvanlearning@optonline.net Sylvan of Mineola and Huntington offer personalized tutoring programs in reading, writing, mathematics, and SAT/ACT prep. Sylvan will help identify the right program for your child and exactly where your child needs to start to get the best results. VILLAGE EAST GIFTED - ENRICHMENT CENTER FOR THE GIFTED LEARNER Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted provides after-school enrichment and private tutoring. Enriching every qualified, gifted child. We are also a John Hopkins CTY info and SAT testing center.

Planning A Bar or Bat Mitzvah? Mıtzvah Market.com Let MıtzvahMarket.com Be Your Guide Through the Planning Period.

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• Mitzvah Family Spotlights • Inspirational Mitzvah Project Profiles • Mitzvah Project Resource Directory • Vendor Directory • Deals and Discounts • Weekly E-newsletter

“

Mitzvah Market was an integral part in the planning of my daughter’s recent Bat Mitzvah. I loved receiving the weekly newsletters and found many unique ideas and inspirations from other Mitzvah Moms. I also liked the caliber of the Vendors who advertise with MitzvahMarket.com.

“

LITTLE OPTICS INC. 192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, Queens 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside, Queens 718-468-7500 Hablamos Español littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional eye care for children, including infants and young adults. We also alleviate any self-esteem issues associated with the stigma of wearing glasses. When your child leaves Little Optics, rest assured they will feel confident.

— Mitzvah Mom, Andi M.

Do you want the best iDeas for your celebration? M M MıtzvahMarket.com

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LongIslandParent 61

Meet the

Health Care Professional ChiroMom 2874 Merrick Road, Bellmore 516-221-1212 mychiromom.com mychiromom@gmail.com

Mesbah OB-GYN Women’s Health Care & Wellness 877 Stewart Ave., Suite 3, Garden City 516-794-1500 mesbahobgyn.com

Dr. Dana Walters is a chiropractor specializing in prenatal and pediatric care. Dr. Walters has practiced in a variety of areas, including Manhattan’s Upper West Side, and has brought her passion for helping families discover the benefits of chiropractic care to Bellmore, as ChiroMom. ChiroMom offers chiropractic care utilizing techniques including immune boosting treatments, musculoskeletal and nutritional work, activator techniques, massage therapy, and lifestyle education. As a mom, Dr. Walters experiences first-hand how chiropractic care throughout pregnancy, birth, and childhood sets a solid foundation for greater health and well-being.

Michael Mesbah, M.D., is board-certified with more than 20 years of private practice experience. His experience and expertise in obstetrics has made him one of the most respected physicians on Long Island. He has extensive training in gynecological surgery, and is a certified robotic surgeon. Karyn Wat, M.D., is multilingual in English, Spanish, and Chinese. She has been trained in general and high-risk obstetric care, as well as gynecological surgery. She is compassionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable in issues pertaining to teenagers, family planning, menstrual and hormonal abnormalities, and menopausal symptoms.

Merrick Pediatric Dentistry 1756A Merrick Ave., Merrick 516-547-1997 merrickpediatricdentistry.com

Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry 959 Brush Hollow Road, Suite #101, Westbury 516-333-3033 pediatricdentistlongislandny.com kidsteethli@gmail.com

Dr. Rania Elbaz is a board-certified pediatric dentist. She earned her dental degree from Columbia University. She then completed her pediatric dental training at UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School. Dr. Elbaz loves working with children and strives to create a warm and fun environment that children look forward to visiting. Dr. Elbaz sees every patient in order to ensure consistency that is so important to young children. The office welcomes and gives extra time and attention to patients with special needs. The office also participates with most major insurance plans.

Dr. Michael Gruttadauria, The Center for Integrative and Innovative Therapies (The CIIT Center) 131 Sunnyside Blvd., Suite 100, Plainview 516-243-8660; theciitcenter.com

Dr. Michael Gruttadauria leads the operations at an advanced treatment center for autism spectrum disorder called The CIIT Center. The CIIT Center’s mission is to approach each child with autism as a total entity by enhancing the biomedical, neurological, nutritional, electrical, and immune system of each of our patients and combining this with occupational, physical, and speech therapies, along with applied behavioral analysis. Our comprehensive approach starts with identifying the underlying factors that may be holding the child back, not just treating their symptoms. This gives each child every opportunity to reach their potential.

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry cares for all of your child’s oral health needs in a fun, kid-friendly environment that includes iPads and chairside TV monitors. Drs. Ehrenman and Khan are dedicated and trained to ease dental anxieties for young children as well as patients with special needs. Their years of advanced training include hospital and sedation dentistry. Please visit kidsteeth4li.com to learn more about what Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry has to offer!

Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Nassau: 516-216-1791 • Suffolk: 631-689-6858 • Queens: 718-640-6767 Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, is owner and operator of Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. Along with her group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders (adults and children). Intensive feeding therapy for individuals who suffer from texture and consistency aversions, and FEES— Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing—are also offered. There is a total of seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies and offering evening and Saturday hours.

Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. 444 Community Drive, #201, Manhasset 516-487-5437 shiningsmilespediatricdentistry.com

THE MOSCOW FESTIVAL

A DREAM IS A WISH THE BALLET PRESENTS: LIGHTNING SLEEPING PRINCESS BEAUTY CONCERT THIEF

Dr. Rod is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He truly cares about children and understands that kids need to feel like they are in a safe, comfortable, relaxed, and friendly environment. At Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, P.C., we strive to use the healthiest materials. Our office uses no mercury and no BPA in any of our fillings and sealants. Additionally, all of our materials are gluten-free to provide optimal oral health for your child.

Three performances available!

Pediatric Dentistry of Nassau County 300 Garden City Plaza, Garden City 516-280-6734 supermolar.com

Dr. Danielle Cooper received her degree in dental medicine and completed her two-year pediatric dental residency at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She is a board-certified pediatric dentist specialized in treating children of all ages. She loves working with children every day and strives to make her patients feel comfortable, safe, and excited about their oral health. Her patients leaving with a smile is the best part of her day. In her free time Dr. Cooper enjoys reading, movies, good food, and spending quality time with her friends and family.

MARCH

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LongIslandParent 63

OPEN HOUSES 2018 Camp East Woods

31 Yellow Cote Drive, Oyster Bay 516-922-4400 campeastwoods.com Join us for an open house on March 11 or May 19 from 10am-1pm, and by appointment.

Camps ‘R’ Us Where Summer Vacation Is Our Job Locations in: Baldwin, Bellmore, East Rockaway, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Saint James, Syosset, Valley Stream, and West Islip 516-935-CAMP (2267) campsrus.org info@campsrus.org Join us for an open house in Bellmore, Hicksville, St. James, and Syosset on March 10 from 12:30-2:30pm; Baldwin and West Islip on March 11 from 11:30am-1:30pm; Valley Stream on March 11 from 11am-1:30pm; Farmingdale on March 18 from 10:30am12:30pm; East Rockaway on March 18 from 10am-1pm.

The Coder School Syosset

45 Ira Road, Syosset 516-584-4244 syosset.thecoderschool.com syosset@thecoderschool.com Come to our Summer Camp Open House on March 18 from 1-3pm. There will be raffles, giveaways, and free camps!

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium Nature Summer Camp

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org steved@cshfishhatchery.org Give your young explorer a summer surrounded by nature at our summer science and

outdoor nature camps for ages pre-K through teens. Call us to learn more and schedule a personal tour.

Countryside Montessori School

354 Lakeville Road, Lower Level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 cmsgn.com info@cmsgn.com Open house for admission for the 2018-19 school year: come into the classrooms and speak with our teachers on March 11 and May 6.

Future Stars Summer Camps

Green Vale School

250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville 516-621-2420 greenvaleschool.org Learn more about school and summer programs at a free Open Play session April 3 or 4. RSVP to admissions@greenvaleshool.org.

Kenwal Day Camp

100 Drexel Ave., Melville 631-694-3399 kenwaldaycamp.com Visit Kenwal to meet with our directors and tour our beautiful 20-acre campgrounds. Sundays from 12-3pm, through June, or call

for a personal tour. Lock in discounted rates through Summer 2020!

Long Island High School for the Arts Summer Arts Academy: sixth to 12th grades

239 Cold Spring Road, Syosset 516-622-5678 nassauboces.org/lihsa Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts invites all students with artistic talent, passion, and ambitions to an open house on April 28 from 10am-2pm.

Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp

516-238-4586 livoyagersdaycamp.com livoyagersdaycamp@gmail.com Join us at our open house on March 24, from 12-2pm at Adventureland, 2245 Broad Hollow Road (Route 110), Farmingdale. Registered campers receive $100 off of tuition and a day bracelet!

Old Westbury Summer Camp

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury 516-626-9268 oldwestburysummercamp.org Please visit an open house: March 11 and 18, April 14 and 22, May 6 and 19, or June 3 and 16 from 10am-12pm, or request a private tour.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.org Join new families interested in learning more about Usdan. Meet with our admissions counselors and tour the campus. Refreshments, warm drinks, information, and 2018 registration available. Sundays, March 18, April 15, or May 20 from 11am-2pm.

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activities for families? Subscribe to our family activity

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NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER 64

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

raising kids ad index

NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! acrobatics / gymnastics

Eglevsky Ballet Company of Long Island Inc................ 26

Meshab OB-GYN........................................................... 62

M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym.................................................... 25

Eye Level Learning Center............................................ 16

Pediatric Dentistry of Nassau County........................ 3, 63

Goldfish Swim School ................................................... 16

Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry PC..................... 11, 63

birthday / party services @ Play Amusements..................................................... 55 Coder School (The)....................................................... 27 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNALC........................ 31 Goldfish Swim School ................................................... 16 Key to My Art................................................................. 28 M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym.................................................... 25

Green Vale School (The)............................................... 15 Key to my Art................................................................. 28

music

LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................................... 24

Music Together, LLC...................................................... 27

Mathnasium ................................................................... 5

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

Stars of Tomorrow......................................................... 19 Village East Gifted......................................................... 29

Music Together, LLC...................................................... 27

dance

Northwell Health Ice Center / NY Islander..................... 14

Eglevsky Ballet Company of Long Island Inc................ 26

Thomas School Summer Day & Riding Academy......... 28

performing arts / acting Eglevsky Ballet Company of Long Island Inc................ 26 Madison Theatre at Molloy College............................... 63 Nassau Boces Educational Foundation......................... 27

developmental

Stars of Tomorrow......................................................... 19

camps

Andrew M. Cohen, Esq.................................................. 49

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

Buckley Country Day Camp.......................................... 26

C.I.I.T. Center................................................................ 62

Camp Clio...................................................................... 27

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech................. 59, 62

play spaces

Camp East Woods......................................................... 31

Young Peoples Day Camp - LI...................................... 21

@ Play Amusements..................................................... 55

education

retail

Camp Huntington........................................................... 29 Coder School (The)....................................................... 27 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNALC........................ 31 Countryside Montessori School..................................... 31 Destination Science....................................................... 32 Dorothy P Flint 4-H Camp............................................. 24 Eye Level Learning Center............................................ 16 Future Stars - Old Westbury.......................................... 20 Green Vale School (The)............................................... 15 Hofstra Summer Camps................................................ 26 Kenwal Day Camp......................................................... 23 Key to My Art................................................................. 28 LI Voyagers Day Camp.................................................. 25 LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................................... 24 M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym.................................................... 25 Mid-Island YJCC............................................................ 23 Music Together, LLC...................................................... 27 Oasis Children Services............................................ 9, 68 Old Westbury Summer Camp........................................ 31 Thomas School Summer Day & Riding Academy......... 28

Andrew M. Cohen, Esq.................................................. 49 Camp Eastwoods.......................................................... 31

Once Upon A Child........................................................ 16

Countryside Montessori School..................................... 31

special events

Green Vale School (The)............................................... 15

All Kids Fair................................................................... 35

Fusion Education Group - Woodbury............................ 13

Northwell Health Ice Center / NY Islander..................... 14

LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................................... 24 M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym.................................................... 25

special needs

Mathnasium ................................................................... 5

Andrew M. Cohen, Esq.................................................. 49

Nassau Boces Educational Foundation......................... 27

Camp Huntington........................................................... 29

Village East Gifted......................................................... 29

ChiroMom................................................................ 59, 62 Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry........................... 62

family entertainment / events / outings

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech................. 59, 62

@ Play Amusements..................................................... 55

Pediatric Dentistry of Nassau County........................ 3, 63

All Kids Fair................................................................... 35

Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry PC..................... 11, 63

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNALC........................ 31 Eglevsky Ballet Company of Long Island Inc................ 26

sports

Madison Theatre at Molloy College............................... 63

Goldfish Swim School ................................................... 16

Northwell Health Ice Center / NY Islander..................... 14

M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym.................................................... 25 Northwell Health Ice Center / NY Islander..................... 14

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

fitness

Thomas School Summer Day & Riding Academy......... 28

Village East Gifted......................................................... 29

Goldfish Swim School ................................................... 16

Young Peoples Day Camp - LI...................................... 21

child care / day care M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym.................................................... 25

health C.I.I.T. Center................................................................ 62

theater Stars of Tomorrow......................................................... 19

ChiroMom................................................................ 59, 62

tutors

classes

Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry........................... 62

Eye Level Learning Center............................................ 16

Coder School (The)....................................................... 27

Merrick Pediatric Dentistry......................................... 7, 62

Mathnasium ................................................................... 5

LongIslandParent 65

raising kids quotables

What has been your luckiest parenting moment? “Getting pregnant in the first place. I struggled with infertility for years and was smack dab in the middle of IVF when I became pregnant with our son. I never felt luckier than in that moment.” —Amy Edlestein, Nassau County

“Every day with my kids feels a little bit lucky and a little bit crazy. We are lucky to go on so many adventures in Brooklyn and discover new parts of our borough every week. The craziness of being a large family is so worth it.” —Tracy R., Park Slope, Brooklyn

“I don’t know if I believe in luck as much as I believe that everything happens for a reason. I’m grateful for my family every day and always remind my children to count their blessings.” —Penny Ramirez, New Rochelle

“Getting pregnant with twins!! Some people might have totally freaked out but they run in my family, so I felt so lucky to carry on that family tradition with my own brood. My girls are definitely my good luck charms.” —Amanda Jenkins, Forest Hills, Queens

in an instagram The graduating class of The Highland School in Fresh Meadows, Queens, got a chance to visit with Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb of the Today Show.

But here’s what I’m beginning to realize, or rather, what I need to realize. Moms are not machines. We can’t go and go and go without stopping or we will break. And there is no free replacement if we do. I may want to hang those picture frames or shred those bills tonight when the have-tos of my day are done. But honestly, what I need to do is to sit on the couch, curl up next to my sweet dog, and watch some Netﬂix. —Janene Dutt in a post entitled “If You Feel Like You Didn’t Do Enough Today, Remember This,” on scarymommy.com

March 2018 | nymetroparents.com

“I feel lucky for my family and extended family who live in the area. Without them I don’t know how I would handle this whole parenting thing. It truly takes a village.” —Susan Klinger, Manhattan

The Joys of Daylight Savings “There’s nothing better than dining al fresco, in my opinion, whether it’s at a restaurant that has outdoor seating, in a backyard (if you’re lucky enough to have one), or on a building’s rooftop terrace. I really love spreading out a blanket and dining among nature (and other picnickers) at the local park.” —Katelin Walling in an article entitled “Daylight Saving Time: 5 Ways to Take Advantage of an Extra Hour of Sunlight;” read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/daylight-savings.

More NYMetroParents.com Highlights: GO FOR A SPIN!: Check out some awesome carousels in the NYC area at nymetroparents.com/carousels CELEBRATING WOMEN: March is Women’s History Month. Find where you can celebrate at nymetroparents. com/womens-history. SPRING IS HERE! Discover 100 things to do in our area this season (nymetroparents.com/spring) CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY: Make this delicious and healthy Shamrock Shake (nymetroparents.com/shamrock)

Bar Mitzvah Bat Mi t zvah Sweet Sixteen Quinceañera

Party Planning?

Check off your entire to-do list in ONE DAY!

• Venues • Favors

• Invitations • Food Samples

• Photographers • Décor

• DJs and Entertainment • Judaica

Uniondale, Long Island • Long Island Marriott • Sunday, March 18th • 12 - 4 PM

Get your FREE family ticket online at CelebrateShowcase.com Tickets purchased at the door are $10

A Y D C S I AM S A P O a Am

Su z ing

mm e r s . . . L i f e l o n g F

rie

LIU Post at LIU Post Campus Specialized Early Start Program: Ages 3-5

Low child/staff ratio • Early childhood experienced staff Scheduling accommodates physical and creative needs of campers. Register Online! Ready for September enrichment • Salt water pool • A/C dining hall Check out our 375 beautiful acres of outdoor space and shady areas NEW website! Exclusive a/c indoor space for play and rest www.oasischildren.com Included in all traditional camp activities! 800-317-1392

Traditional Day Camp: Ages 6-11

Programming designed to expose campers to new, exciting fun activities. Inclusive environment - building bonds and lifelong friendships Sports & Outdoor Adventure • Arts & Crafts • Music & Performing Arts Cooking facilities • Boating • Roller Hockey • Horseback Riding Broadcasting/real FM STUDIO • Academic Enrichment Campers choice activities • American Red Cross Swim Instruction

As Close to Sleepaway Camp As You Can Get!

Teen Travel: Ages 12-14

Daily trips to museums, beaches, baseball games & amusement parks Overnight camp excursions & late-night socials! Oasis Features: 8:30am-5:30pm + extended day • Hot Lunch Option • AC Transportation Flexible Enrollment: 2-8 weeks • Carnivals, Tie Dye, Scavenger Hunts, Color War, Day Trips Join us for an info session on March 7th at 6:30 pm in the Hillwood Commons Building

Tully Park

at Michael J. Tully Park Professional soccer stadium with turf field Baseball fields & Tennis Courts Pool with water features & slide Check for information session dates!

On The Sound

at Manorhaven Beach Park Boating, beach & sand play! Skate park & roller hockey Outdoor pool with water features Check for information session dates!