Long Island Parent (Nassau) February 2017

LongIslandParent NASSAU EDITION

FEBRUARY 2017

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Amazing Camp Experiences

Kids tell us why summer camp is so special

Plus: Find the right camp

Adulting 101

How to raise kids ready for life

Long Island s

Caring Kids

Your amazing stories of giving back to the community

INDOOR PLAY SPACES

•

TEACHING KIDS CONSENT

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH

From school pictures to hundreds of family photos and thousands of selfies, children’s smiles brighten our lives.

Let’s give them healthy smiles that will shine for a lifetime.

Good dental habits start at a young age and continue as children grow with: • Regular dental checkups (2x a year) • Brushing and flossing (at least 2x a day) • A healthy diet with fruits and vegetables

Fidelis Care covers preventive and routine dental care for kids!

1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org 2

(1-888-343-3547)

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

TTY: 1-800-421-1220

Caring for kids is what we do.

Calm, comfortable dentistry for children and special needs patients.

Serving three generations of satisfied - and relaxed families on Long Island

for Voting Us Best Pediatric Dental Practice

Ehrenman & Khan P E D I AT R I C D E N T I ST RY

Board Certified • Kid Approved

959 Brush Hollow Road • Suite 101 • Westbury, NY 11590 516.333.3033 • www.KidsTeeth4LI.com LongIslandParent

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NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

February 2017 ››

52

Features

16 Long Island’s Caring Kids Learn how area families volunteer 20 Adulting 101 How to get your children ready for the real world—while they’re still young 24 Teaching Kids Consent Tips to talk to children of all ages about appropriate and inappropriate touching 26 Why Camp Is Great Kids share why they love summer camp.

48 Demystifying the Dentist What to expect at kids’ dental visits, and how to keep their mouths healthty

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50 Soup and a Sandwich Three combos to warm up on a chilly day

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52 Learning to Ski A peek at how to New York mountains teach newbies the popular winter sport

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 NYMP News: Mommybites Joins the NYMetroParents Family 12 Quotables 13 NYMP Q&A: Laurie Hollman, Ph.D., discusses parental intelligence 58 Voices: Why I hated all nine months of pregnancy

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Fun & Activities

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

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

by Appaman (appaman.com)

14 14 32 35 46

DIY Corner: Mini Terrarium Media Matters: Family Favorite Films Outing: Rye Nature Center Family Activities Calendar Where-To Guide: Indoor Play Spaces

Directories 28 53 54 55 56 56 57

Camp Guide Meet the Health Care Professional Professional Services Party Central Open Houses Family Resource Guide Advertisers’ Index

››

ON THE COVER ›› 16 Long Island’s Caring Kids 20 Adulting 101 24 Teaching Kids Consent

facebook.com/nymetroparents

26 Amazing Camp Experiences

@NYMetroParents

46 Indoor Play Spaces

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

LongIslandParent

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FEBRUARY 2017 • Vol.8 • No.9

EDITOR’S NOTE

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

Raising Kids Ready for Life

O

ne recent Sunday, we converted our youngest daughter’s crib to a toddler bed, and just like that, with 15 minutes of tinkering, she was on to a new, exciting stage of her life. Needless to say, the actual transition—from baby to toddler to stages beyond—is hardly that seamless or quick. As parents, our deepest hope is to raise our kids to be independent adults, able to navigate their way in the world successfully on their own. Lately, though, there’s been a focus in the media on the difficulties many young adults face in doing that. “Adulting” has become a verb that connotes the conscious effort it takes to accomplish basic life skills. To help your kids avoid having to learn to “adult” when they are adults, we’re offering a guide to raise independent kids who will be ready for life in the real world when their time comes to leave your crib for their own grown-up lives (p. 20).

When I was a child and especially a teenager, it was summer camp, particularly sleepaway camp, that had one of the most profound influences on my growth and readiness to be independent. The classroom gave me knowledge and the ability to think and understand, but the fields and hiking trails and activity centers of camp gave me the chance to do for myself and become the person I was meant to be. And I am far from alone in this. Since it’s now camp enrollment season, check out stories from kids around the region who tell us, in their own words, the impact camp has had on their lives (p. 26).

As our kids grow up, there are any number of difficult conversations we must have with them. One involves touching—what is appropriate and what is inappropriate, and who gets to decide (short answer: they do). It’s never too early, and certainly never too late, to have this discussion; in truth, it’s likely more than one conversation, one you need to revisit over the years as your child matures. Since these talks are inevitably awkward and hard for you and your child, we hope our guide to discussing consent with kids of all ages helps as you address this important topic (p. 24).

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and we know going to the dentist can be scary and confusing for kids. To help, check out our explanation of common pediatric dental procedures and find some great tips for keeping your kids’ mouths healthy (p. 48). And, of course, this month also brings Valentine’s Day, and in that spirit, I wish you and your family a month of love and happiness.

MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke

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

PRODUCTION

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

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

Michael Kress Editorial Director

Connect With Us Every Day Wherever and whenever you need parenting advice and resources, we are here for you.

Find useful articles, local business directories, event listings, and much more 24/7 at nymetroparents.com, and connect with us at:

facebook.com/nymetroparents

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Barbara Byrd

Davler Media Group 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 nymetroparents.com davlermedia.com nybarbatmitzvah.com

twitter.com/nymetroparents instagram.com/nymetroparents And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/register to find out what’s going on in your area for families every week!

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN PARENT, FAIRFIELD 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

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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

nymetroparents.com/np-np

Who: The Center for Integrative & Innovative Therapies (The CIIT Center) What’s New: The advanced treatment center on Long Island, which offers treatments and therapies for people with autism spectrum disorder all under one roof. It opened in January in Plainview.

The CIIT Center’s goal is to enhance the biomedical, neurological, nutritional, electrical, and immune systems of each of its patients, through applied behavioral analysis as well as occupational, physical, and speech therapies.

Muneer Imam, M.D., and Michael Gruttadauria, D.C., are leading the team of professionals at the 12,500-square-foot facility.

Want More Info: 131 Sunnyside Blvd., Suite 100, Plainview; 516-2438660; theciitcenter.com

Courtesy The CIIT Center

The Center for Integrative & Innovative Therapies Opens in Plainview

The CIIT Center is housed in a 12,500-square-foot facility in Plainview.

Who: New York Hall of Science What’s New: Various events and Science Fiction, Science Future, which uses hands-on exhibits that incorporate robots, holograms, and augmented reality to explore how science-fiction ideas might become the reality of tomorrow. This temporary exhibition runs from Feb. 4-April 30.

NYSCI offers special events throughout the year, such as Engineering Week, Feb. 20-25, with activities for kids run by the American Society of Civil Engineers, and Brick Fest Live, April 8-9, during which children can see creative Lego sculptures and make their own creations. For more events, such as Bug Day, visit NYSCI online.

Want More Info: 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens; 718-699-0005; nysci.org; info@nysci.org

Courtesy New York Hall of Science

New Exhibition and Events at NYSCI

Children who visit the Maker Space can participate in hands-on STEM activities.

Who: Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts What’s New: Classes in art and architecture, plus the option to attend a shorter, two-week camp session.

The sustainable art curriculum, designed by Usdan staff and noted artist Olafur Eliasson’s Little Sun team, is also new to the 2017 season.

“Usdan has a history of collaborating with major artists and cultural organizations,” says Lauren Brandt Schloss, Usdan’s executive director.

Sessions are offered in two-, four-, or seven-week periods with classes for children ages 4-18. Other offerings include Quidditch, stop motion animation, building with Minecraft, and dance classes with Alvin Ailey, Martha Graham, and Pilobolus.

Want More Info: 185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights; 631-643-7900; usdan.org

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

Wheatley Heights Summer Camp Expands Offerings

Usdan offers more than 70 programs in music, theater, visual arts, dance, and more.

Dr. Angie Chin welcomes everyone to her new office in Port Washington!

• Board Certified Pediatric Dentist • Specializes in preventative oral health care, traumatic injury management, caring for patients with special needs, behavior management, nitrous sedation and general anesthesia • Graduated from Columbia University Dental School and trained at the Children’s Hospital at Long Island Jewish Medical Center

• Newly Constructed Modern and Child-Friendly Office with Themed Treatment Rooms, iPads and Games in the Waiting Room, Movies and Cartoons Available During Treatment, Digital X-Rays, and Prize Box • Convenient Evening and Weekend Hours, and After Hours Emergency Care Tiny Sparkles Pediatric Dentistry 164 Main Street, Port Washington, NY 11050 (516) 888-9789 | www.tinysparkles.com LongIslandParent

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Courtesy Mommybites

NYMP NEWS

Left to right: Heather Ouida, Rebecca Dixon, and Laura Deutsch, the moms behind Mommybites.

Mommybites Joins the NYMetroParents Family ››

Mommybites.com provides parents with trusted Nanny Boards, online classes, local events, and more. By Caitlin Berens

N

early 10 years ago Laura Deutsch was a new mom living in Manhattan, eager to find a community. So in 2006 she created one on her own, a grassroots events company for local moms. She partnered with Heather Ouida in 2009, and today Mommybites is an online parenting resource offering education, nanny placement, and activity information services for families in New York City and beyond.

Mommybites offers two to three convenient online classes for parents each month such as the upcoming Support Your Child’s Development Through Play, as well as many other topics, including infant and toddler sleep, potty training, and preschool readiness. These classes are always free.

On the mom-generated Nanny Boards, parents can post their trusted nannies looking for work or find a mom-approved nanny for their own family.

By visiting mommybites.com parents can sign up for a weekly newsletter, read articles written by experts, and check out the jobs-for-moms portal.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Mommybites was recently acquired by Davler Media Group, owner of NYMetroParents.

“Mommybites is a great brand and perfect fit for NYMetroParents,” says David Miller, CEO of Davler Media Group. “We look forward to bringing Mommybites’ online education classes and Nanny Boards to the one million families we reach every month. Their editorial content also expands our offerings for parents of newborns and toddlers.”

Mommybites’ recently appointed managing director, Rebecca Dixon, joined the team in 2011. The Manhattan mom of three will take over as the head of Mommybites, with Deutsch and Ouida staying on as advisors.

“I’ve been fortunate to have the opportunity to help Mommybites grow into one the most respected parenting resources in the greater New York metro area,” Dixon says. “I’m excited to leverage the expertise of the NYMetroParents team to grow our offerings.”

Visit mommybites.com to find a nanny, post a nanny job, or sign up for an online class.

LIU Post, at LIU Post Campus

Tully Park at Michael J. Tully Park

& On

The Sound

Summer 2017!

at Manorhaven Park

Early Start Imagination Camp ESIC • Specialized Programming for Pre-K campers ages 3-5 • 8:30am - 5:30pm with extended hours available • Beautiful outdoor & air-conditioned indoor space • Sports, games & outdoor adventure • Visual arts, crafts & performing arts • Special events, theme days, carnivals & all traditional camp activities • Red Cross Swim Instruction.

• Healthy hot lunch & transportation available (A/C) • Low ratios with mature staff • Flexible enrollment for 2-8 weeks (Traditional Day Camp (ages 6-11), Teen Travel (ages 12-14) & CIT/LIT Program (ages 14-16) also available)

Info Sessions at Tully Park

(1801 Evergreen Ave, New Hyde Park, NY 11040) Feb. 2, 2017 & March 7, 2017 at 7:30 pm Multi-Purpose/Concessions Rm

Info Sessions at Manorhaven Park

(Manorhaven Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050) Feb. 7, 2017 at 6:30 pm - Senior Center by Manorhaven Beach Park

Info Sessions at LIU Post (720 Northern Blvd, Greenvale, NY 11548) Feb. 16, 2017 at 6:30 pm - Hillwood Commons Building (Theater)

Visit us online for 2017 info session dates & locations!

www.oasischildren.com • LIU: 646-519-5066 TP: 646-519-5062 • OTS: 646-519-5077

@oasisdaycamps

LongIslandParent 11

UOTABLES Be true to yourself, and don’t throw shade at other moms. Please, please let’s just throw away our Judgy McJudgerson Pants because, for starters, judgy pants were, like, so 1990s, and they never looked good on you anyway.

—Heather Sadlemire, in a post entitled “The Best Resolution I Ever Made Was To Quit Mom-Shaming,” on scarymommy.com

in an instagram Max has had a fascination with #LadyLiberty ever since we visited #EllisIsland and requires a photo with her every time we see her now. Except the creepy guy in Times Square. I have to draw the line somewhere, but you have to love his patriotic passion!

(Posted by @missstephanieb, aka Stephanie B., who blogs at footballfoodandmotherhood.com)

THE MAGIC BEGINS

in an instagram You guys, the new subway is almost here!!! Open house for the public today at 96th Street. #MyRide#2ndAveSubway #nyc (Posted by @thenycjenny, aka Jenny, who blogs at nycjenny.com)

“Seeing and experiencing New York (outside of the city), is easy. Within an hour the city turns to dust in the distance and you are shown expansive lands, lakes to swim, towns with feasts, and mountains to hike.

Experiencing this as a family…. has been the greatest gift.”

—Latonya Yvette, in a post entitled “Experience New York: Hike Up Bear Mountain,” on her blog, blog.latonyayvette.com.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

“Suddenly the lights went out and the students started to scream and shriek. Tiny pairs of eyes began to light up on and around the stage. The music gained momentum. The Inside Broadway experience had begun. Students heard from the actors, both in and out of costume, as well as the behind-the-scenes crew responsible for the lighting, props, makeup, music, set, and more.”

—Caitlin Berens in an article entitled “NYC Students Get a Peek Behind the Scenes of ‘Cats’ on Broadway.” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/cats-on-broadway.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Find where you can celebrate at nymetroparents.com/black-history.

DISCOVER HISTORY: Check out historical locations in and around New York City at nymetroparents.com/historical-places TAKE A TRIP: Discover amazing winter day trips in the NYC area at nymetroparents.com/winter-trips.

HIT THE SLOPES: Where to ski and snowboard (nymetroparents.com/ski)

NYMP Q&A

Finding the Meaning Behind Your Child’s Behavior ››

By Bethany Braun-Silva

Enroll Now!

Laurie Hollman, Ph.D., is a psychoanalyst who recently wrote the book Unlocking Parental Intelligence.

What is parental intelligence? The crux of parental intelligence is trying to understand your child’s mind. Finding meaning in the child’s behavior, trying to understand the underlying issues of the behavior, and how to solve that behavior. It’s slowing down, pausing, taking no action, which may be counterintuitive to most parents, and instead taking the time to review the behavior, going over what your child did, when they did it, and looking for a sequence to track the behavior. It’s suspending judgment about your child’s behavior as well as your own parenting behavior.

It gives you permission to not know what to do. If you don’t understand how to do something, then what can you do about it?

When kids see parents taking their time, it has a calming effect on the situation.

What advice do you have for handling outbursts or temper tantrums in public? I think the key is that you’re in public. The parent is often humiliated and embarrassed, and the child isn’t listening. If the behavior really gets out of hand, I would leave the store. That isn’t a time where you can sit and understand the child’s feelings. You need to remove them from the environment.

It is inconvenient and you don’t get the shopping done, but it gives you a chance to slow the child down and not give them the experience of a full-blown temper tantrum. Once you’re home and time has passed where they’ve calmed down, you can use parental intelligence to figure out what was going on and what is behind this behavior.

Parental intelligence sounds like an effective way to parent, but do you believe in any more traditional forms of discipline?

The word discipline comes from the word disciple, which means teaching. If you think about wanting to teach your child a lesson, using parental intelligence is the best avenue. Most parents give consequences for bad behavior immediately and react immediately.

This is usually not effective because the child doesn’t understand the punishment necessarily. They stop and follow the punishment but they don’t learn from it. Parental intelligence is discipline, but it is from a different point of view. It is an approach that says, “I know what is in my child’s mind, I know how to solve it.”

S uc ce s s f ul F r ie n d s h i p s a re Po s s i ble !

•••••••••• •••••• We ca n h elp you r ch ild su cc ee d one st ep at a ti m

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S2S

STEPS TO

SOCIALIZATION

516.767.0266 www.s2sny.com LongIslandParent 13

DIY CORNER

Mini Terrarium

One of the best ways to use a large jar is to transform it into a terrarium. I love succulents and they have made a real comeback recently. What better way to display them than with fun pink flamingos and decorative white sand—a mini beach scene for your table! In the smaller jar, a gold-painted dinosaur roars out from a succulent forest—I think the little ones in your life will appreciate this one. Make sure your jar is big enough for your plant to grow, so search the supermarket shelves for the biggest jar they have!

Editor’s note: We love this idea for showing your valentine how much they mean to you!

You Will Need Large glass jars Pebbles Potting compost Small plants, such as succulents Decorative fine white sand Small pebbles or gravel Little ornaments Directions 1. S tart by placing a layer of pebbles in the base of your jar—this will help with drainage and will prevent the potting compost from becoming waterlogged.

Media Matters: Favorite Family Films

For Oscars season, some top 2016 picks

2. Put a layer of potting compost on top and position your plants.

3. Top with more potting compost, firming it in around the base of the plant, then add a layer of decorative sand or pebbles.

4. Place your chosen ornaments around the plants for a whimsical effect.

5. Water the plants very carefully, trying not to disturb the sand or pebbles. Succulents and cacti make a good plant choice as they require little watering.

Crafting with Mason Jars by Hester Van Overbeek, CICO Books, $19.95. rylandpeters.com. Photography by CICO Books.

A Beautiful Planet (G)

Recommended Age: 6+ H

HHHH

A stunning look at Earth—and hum

Arrival (PG-13)

Recommended Age: 11+ H

anity’s sobering impact on it

HHHH

A great, deeply thoughtful, compas

sionate sci-fi tale

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (PG-

Recommended Age: 11+H

HHH

13)

This epic but violent adventure offe

La La Land (PG-13)

Recommended Age: 13+ H

rs diversity and role models.

HHHH

A profound, beautiful film about love

and creativity

In Theaters Feb. 10: The Lego Batman Movie

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

Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org

Parents need to know that The Lego Batman Movie gives one of the most popular characters from The Lego Movie his own super spin-off. In a Gotham City completely built out of Lego bricks, mysterious hero Batman (voiced by Will Arnett) sulks in his mansion/Batcave while his disappointed butler, Alfred (Ralph Fiennes), tries to get him to take a greater interest in his adopted son, Robin (Michael Cera). Batman eventually agrees to take Robin under his wing, so to speak, but he must learn that if he wants to save the day, he can’t go it alone. While much of the fun-loving spirit of the first Lego movie remains, this one seems like it might be more oriented toward older kids. The animation is darker and edgier, and the humor seems more reliant on rude behavior (for example, Robin loses his pants, and Batman accidentally karate-chops Alfred into a piano). But kids are sure to want to flock to this “block”-buster.

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media 14

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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Caring AWARDS Kids

Long Island’s Caring Kids We asked how your family gives back, and here are your stories of amazing kids who make our community better every day. ›› For the NYMetroParents Caring Kids Awards, we invited you to submit stories and photos of families and kids who do volunteer work to help others. We hope you will be as inspired as we were by these stories of young Long Island residents committed to making the world a better place and helping those in need. These local kids are making a difference in the community every day, and we salute all of them!

Gabbie and Charlie, 13, Make Improvements to a Group Home

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As Caring Kids Award Recipients, Gabbie and Charlie will receive a $500 gift card and certificates of recognition for their community service.

YMetroPa

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The twins’ idea was to create improvements in their Uncle Eric’s group home for the developmentally disabled that would last a lifetime, make a difference, and give them reasons to visit more often. Through this marvelous journey of almost one year, they became friends with staff and got to know more about how and where their Uncle Eric lives. They raised money for a beautiful fish tank and a mural of the Coney Island skyline hand-painted by an artist.

Recip

i

Justin, 11, Raises Money and Awareness for Pediatric Cancer My son Justin is part of a voluntary 21st Century Learning Project in his school. The first part of the project for the school year was to pick a nonprofit organization and do something for the charity, such as spread awareness. He and his classmate picked the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Instead of just spreading awareness, Justin wanted to raise money for the organization. Justin enjoys cooking and baking, so he figured he could put his talent to good use and bake cupcakes and raise money for the organization. His first fundraiser was baking cupcakes for the teachers and staff at his school; he raised $120. He had a second fundraiser and held a bake sale at the local church and raised $220 that will also be donated to the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

A Family That Fights Breast Cancer Our family started a breast cancer foundation four years ago after my sister Katerina was diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 32.

During her journey she and I met many women battling the disease without the support network that we were so blessed to have. We started the Kat’s Ribbon of Hope foundation with a small group of family and friends— all volunteers—and each year we host a golf outing and benefit dinner. We gather more than 400 family and friends from the surrounding suburbs and we raise awareness and funds. The funds are all donated to local hospitals for research in breast cancer and to women who are unable to fight the fight on their own. We help them by hiring a patient navigator (social worker) to help them navigate the process of obtaining treatment and beating the disease.

We are proud to say that in just four short years we have raised more than $1,000,000. Our son James is the president of his student council at the Green Vale School, and for the past two years he has elected to donate all Wednesday morning bagel sales to Kat’s Ribbon of Hope. He and his classmates have raised more than $1,000, which directly went to subsidize wigs, food, and help to women in the surrounding local communities. They made a presentation in October during Breast Cancer Awareness month to the entire school about breast cancer and how we can all help women who are not able to help themselves.

Dylan, 9, Helps Kids with Cancer with a Lemonade Stand Since he was 5 years old, Dylan has been running his own lemonade stands and donating the proceeds to charities. For the past three years, that has been the Matthew Fetzer Foundation, which helps children with cancer and their families by providing a bit of relief and some happiness to children in hospitals in the New York metropolitan area. On his own, Dylan has raised hundreds of dollars for the charity, has been the youngest, smallest finisher in their annual 5K run, and has been instrumental in the implementation of a toy drive at his school.

Ruby, 10, Helps Animals My daughter Ruby is constantly moving from one project to the next and loves to do things to help others. She decided to volunteer with her dad at the Long Beach animal shelter over the past year and realized how much she loves being with animals.

We have a dog and she knows how it is to go out in the cold snow and ice to take him for a walk every day. She decided to create a website and make flyers to post around our town to volunteer to help elderly people walk their dogs this winter.

Siblings Raise Funds to Fight Cancer After their mom had a yearlong battle with Stage III colorectal cancer, Lucas (age 10) and Skye (age 5) set up a lemonade stand to raise money for Memorial Sloan Kettering—the hospital that saved Mom’s life. They raised $150 in an afternoon.

Twins, 13, Spread Joy Through Music For the past seven years, our 13-year-old boys have been playing their violin as a duet and as a solo for different populations: senior citizen centers, day care centers, a veterans’ hospital, local elementary and middle schools, and high schools. They’ve also played at governmental agencies, at a local powerful union event, at several community gala events, at an assisted living center, at an LGBT center, and also at MacArthur Airport (greeting passengers leaving or arriving to Ronkonkoma). The boys have been playing violin for others, free of charge, and as a community service, for the past seven years. The boys do this because they enjoy playing for others, for family members, for friends at the local nursing home, and other close friends.

A Family That Volunteers at Church My family volunteers because we all understand the importance of giving back. My children understand their parents come from humble beginnings. Both my husband and I knew what it meant to not have, and so we give back anytime we can. Recently we had an opportunity to give back at our church. It had a Halloween fest and we each played a part. It is so amazing that I get to do this with my family. We look forward to our next event. We also volunteer at our church working with kids and other community outreaches, it is just amazing. I would not change this feeling for anything.

Mark, 13, Throws Birthday Parties for Homeless Children For his bar mitzvah project, my son Mark chose to help a local organization that throws birthday parties for homeless children, called Birthday Wishes. He baked quiches, muffins, breads, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, and cakes to donate. He chose this organization because he feels that every child deserves to feel happy on their birthday.

Spencer, 4, Serves at a Food Pantry Spencer spends some of his Saturday mornings at the food pantry in Oyster Bay doing God’s work by sharing food—but most of all, his smile—with those in need.

A School Provides Supplies for Children in Need Worldwide Every November, the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton School community collects clothing, toys, school supplies, candy, and more. We pack all of these items into shoeboxes to be sent to children in need across the globe. We recently packed 850 boxes for the organization Samaritan’s Purse.

Shai, 13, Brings Joy to Seniors Shai is a regular visitor (two hours every three weeks) at a nearby assisted living center. It’s his favorite community service activity because he really becomes involved with the residents—from playing Name That Tune and singing Broadway songs to assisting with daily exercises or serving morning snack, Shai enjoys chatting with the seniors, and they are very happy to be able to spend time with a “very polite young man.” continued on next page ››

LongIslandParent 17

A Family That Volunteers Together My name is Doris, and my daughters and I volunteer together at various organizations, including the American Diabetes Association and Gold Coast Arts Center. We help with fundraising, whether it’s standing or helping to promote an event with handouts. It’s something we enjoy and teaches them to appreciate what they have. When we are not working events, we will donate clothes and toys to local churches and I encourage them to go through their stuff and pick out what they would like to donate. I think it’s teaching them a valuable lesson and it brings us closer as a family.

Marina, 17, Helps Kids with Special Needs My daughter Marina gave up a paying job to volunteer at a no-kill dog shelter and to work with children with special needs. It is her passion and she hopes to attend college to help children with special needs. Her younger sister has disabilities and she has been the most caring sister. Marina attends buddy programs in her community to assist in any events where she can help enrich a special child’s needs.

Raising Funds for Alex’s Lemonade Stand This past summer my daughter and I held a lemonade stand in honor of our cousin who died from cancer. We managed to raise $800 for Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Although my daughter Juliette was only 2 at the time I wanted to show her at a young age that it’s important to give to others no matter what their circumstance. She had a great time and we had a lot of support from family, neighbors, and friends. In the end Juliette walked away knowing she had helped sick children get better. We plan on hosting a lemonade stand every year and bring more awareness. Now, at 3 years old, she wants to help others.

We have also started collecting old toys and clothes for the Lupus Foundation and Vets Connect.

Jayden, 9, Helps Those in Need My son Jayden is in the Kids Care club for his school. He has helped make signs and donate food to the food pantry and people in need. He helps his school in raising funds for those in need and makes cards for the holidays for others who are less fortunate.

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‹‹

Caring AWARDS Kids

continued from previous page

A Class Throws Birthday Parties in Homeless Shelters Sixth-graders at The Green Vale School collaborated to bake and decorate cupcakes for “Birthday Wishes of Long Island”—a group that delivers birthday parties to children in homeless shelters. The students feel passionately that every child deserves a birthday party.

Asmita, 12, Helps Kids with Cancer My daughter Asmita gives back to her community in so many ways, as she has been involved with the Girl Scouts from a very young age. The Girl Scouts tradition encompasses the values of service and community. One cause that she immerses herself in and feels extremely compassionate about is childhood cancer.

She is 12 years old, and when she sees kids the same age as her suffering with cancer, it just breaks her heart. It really touches home for her. When we are able, we participate by volunteering our time in walks or runs that benefit childhood cancer foundations. We volunteer by doing service such as handing out snacks, setting up, and supervising children at carnivals that raise funds for children with cancer. She has volunteered at Sunrise Walks and also St. Jude’s Walk/Run, to name a few organizations.

A Community Offers a Prayer of Protection This past summer, Our Lady of Wisdom Regional School families and students got together and visited a local Suffolk County Police Department precinct to say a prayer of protection for them and to thank the officers for their service.

Breast Cancer Fundraising My son Hunter and the seventh-grade Grand Avenue Middle School boys’ soccer team raised more than $1,000 for Breast Cancer research and did the Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach.

Samantha, 12, Helps Others with Challenges My daughter Samantha is a very giving soul who loves to find ways to help her community. She has endured challenges as a 3½-pound preemie and wants to help others who face challenges in their lives. Whatever the cause she puts her all into it. She has collected food for our local food drive during the Thanksgiving season. She has even given her own money to charity. She loves cookies, but donated boxes we had bought from Girl Scouts to soldiers. She has helped bake goodies for families at the Ronald McDonald House.

Learn about other Caring Kids throughout the New York metro area at nymetroparents.com/caring-kids.

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Adulting 101

››

How to get your children ready for the real world—while they’re still young By Laurie Sue Brockway

R

emember the days when parents figured they’d be done with childrearing by the time their children reached voting age or graduated from college?

Ha! These days, the timeline for becoming a full-fledged, rentpaying, independently living adult has stretched into the mid-20s and beyond for many families. Forbes recently reported that less than half of the population ages 22-26 surveyed pay their own rent (47 percent), health insurance (41 percent), or contribute to a retirement account (27 percent). Just surveying the proliferation of YouTube videos and other instructional content on the web detailing how to cook an egg, do one’s laundry, and accomplish other everyday tasks, it’s clear there’s a need out there for basic life-skills instruction.

It’s fondly known as “adulting,” and UrbanDictionary.com describes it this way: “Adulting (v): to do grown-up things and hold responsibilities such as a 9-5 job, a mortgage/rent, a car payment, or anything else that makes one think of grown-ups.”

It’s not the worst thing in the world to have your kids living at home longer. But it is important for them to acquire basic life skills along the way, so whether they are living with you or on their own they can cook their own dinner and wash their own clothes. Experts say how we raise our kids can make or break their ability to run their 20

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

own lives as they age out of their adorable phase and grow into adulthood. We asked experts for their best tips on how, when, and why to prepare your kids practically and emotionally to be grown-ups.

Act like an adult

Parents must be role models for grown-up behavior. “Your children are watching you even when you think they aren’t paying attention,” says developmental psychologist Martha Mendez-Baldwin, Ph.D., an assistant professor of psychology at Manhattan College in the Bronx. “They pick up a tremendous amount of information about your value system and your patterns of behavior simply by watching you.” As our children’s first teachers, we can impart skills necessary for them to function in life as productive members of society, she says.

“This includes life lessons about respect, accountability, hard work, perseverance, and emotional regulation.”

Be authoritative

Parents often struggle with the balance between being loving and being the boss, but firm guidance is essential. “Authoritative parents are emotionally and physically available but are not their child’s pal or friend,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. “There are clear boundaries and rules and expectations are enforced consistently.”

Authoritative parents can listen to their children’s opinions and respect their feelings and encourage communication and family time, she adds. On the flip side, pushing kids too hard toward specific achievements can backfire.

Plant the seeds of self-esteem early

A healthy sense of self is one of the keys to healthy adulting. “Without self-esteem children will be ill prepared to navigate the world of decisions and social dilemmas that await them as they voyage through adolescence and into adulthood,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. In addition to life skills, parents should start molding their child’s self-esteem as early as possible, she advises. Begin as early as age 2, when kids begin to test the limits of their independence.

Stop helicopter parenting

It is natural to want to protect your child from negative events and emotions because you don’t want to see him hurt or experience a blow to his self-esteem. “But we live in a world of positive and negative, good and bad,” says Angela Reiter, Ph.D., who offers therapeutic services and psychological evaluations in Eastchester. “In order to know how to handle the negative and appreciate the positive in life, we have to actually experience the negative and learn from it, in order to develop a sense of self-efficacy and a positive self-schema of what we can do when faced with a similar situation or emotion the next time it comes around. “

Let them feel disappointment

Lindsey Cormack, Ph.D., of Stevens Institute of Technology, College of Arts and Letters, in Hoboken, NJ, is a parent of a 4-yearold and a professor to students ages 18-22. “With my own child, I try to let her experience letdown,” she says. “For instance when

2017 Show off your MATH SKILLS!

a playdate is cancelled, I find that I have an urge to protect my child from sadness by offering an alternative, like a date with me.”

She refrains from trying to fix it and instead helps her daughter through a lesson in knowing that sometimes things don’t work out, and sadness is OK. “I think letting children experience and understand letdown in the small forms of childhood may better prepare them for the relatively larger let downs of their college years, such as bad grades on an assignment, non-admittance to certain schools and programs, and more,” she adds.

Create environments that foster independence

Avoid “an unintentional breeding of dependence” as kids continue to grow, says parenting coach Jesse McCarthy, a former school principal and Montessori educator. “Our children are fully capable of all sorts of independent activities, when we prepare the environment for their success.” For example, when child-sized shelves with cups and a movable stool are within 5- and 6-year-olds’ reach, they don’t have to ask an adult for help just to get a drink of water from the sink. Show 8- and 9-year-olds how to do the laundry, and mom and dad are no longer needed for that process afterward. Let 11- and 12-year-olds walk to school to learn to navigate the streets and the world around them. Trust teenagers not to burn the house down and leave them alone for short periods of time. She points out that little steps toward independence at every stage prepares kids while doing everything for them stunts their development.

Encourage your child to take on chores

If kids are not given responsibilities, it will be hard for them to learn responsibility. “Assign children age-appropriate chores and continued on next page ››

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‹‹ continued from previous page

praise them when they are completed,” says Deena Blanchard, M.D., M.P.H., a board-certified pediatrician at Premier Pediatrics in Brooklyn. “Part of this process may involve parents letting children experiment and find the best way to complete the chore.” As parents, it’s challenging to let go of some of the control but it is important to let children figure out their way to do it, which may not be exactly the same as yours, she says. “If a child feels they accomplished the chore their way and on their own, they will be more likely to feel a sense of pride and responsibility for that task and continue to do it.”

Show them how to manage money

Earning, managing, and saving money is key to adulting, so give kids a sense of financial reality and ownership early, starting with a home savings bank to get them thinking about acquiring and managing income early. “Get them a bank account and stress saving for the future rather than rushing out to spend their money without giving it thought,” advises Laurie Hollman, Ph.D., a psychoanalyst specializing in infant-parent, child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy and author of Unlocking Parental Intelligence. Also, having them write checks and pay bills is a good lesson for the future.

Don’t make excuses for your children

It may be hard to watch them flounder and flail through life experiences, but accountability is a building block toward behaving like an adult. “Let children get out of their own messes, unless they are in real danger,” says parenting and relationship expert Thomas Gagliano, author of The Problem Was Me and his newest title, Don’t Put Your Crap in Your Kid’s Diaper: The Clean Up Cost Can Last a Life-

time. “Don’t call into school if their excuse for not going to school is a lie. Let them call in for themselves. Let them face life on life’s terms.

No bailouts. Always be there to talk to them or guide and support them, but let them be responsible for their own actions.”

Consider a more limited life menu

Providing children with too many choices can open them to life’s possibilities but can also be overwhelming. Opening all of life’s doors for them can also present a false sense of reality about what the real world is like when they get there. “Having many choices is a double edged sword,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. “While it creates many opportunities for children, it also requires decision making and problem solving. Children who do not have a healthy sense of self-esteem, children who are insecure, and children who do not have a trusted adult to talk to will have trouble making the right choices.”

Give them age-appropriate freedom

The amount of freedom given to a child must be a good fit between their age and their personality. “A 5-year-old may have freedom to choose a Halloween costume or choose between two snacks to pack in their lunch box but cannot choose their bed time,” Dr. Mendez-Baldwin says. “Keep in mind that children develop at slightly different rates. For example, two 16-year-olds many not be able to handle the same amount of freedom.” She points out that appropriate levels of freedom will allow children to make decisions and start to gain confidence in their decision-making process while still having you around to support and guide them in areas where parental assistance is still required. “If parents control too much of a child’s life, children tend to rebel and often will make poor decisions because they have had no practice in this important life skill.”

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Having kids think about goals is healthy and helpful. “Let them establish a timeline even if it’s tentative and will change with new experiences,” Dr. Hollman says. “Encourage them to think about where they want to be in two years, five years, 10 years, and beyond.” Just make sure this is an exercise in creating the life they choose, not a stressful mandate for achievements.

Don’t let them adult too fast

On the flip side of kids struggling to grow up are those who try to fast track to adulthood. They also need a little help. “Children who are inherently more responsible may try to take on roles of taking care of everything for various people in their lives,” Dr. Blanchard says. “These children may feel the pressure to do “the right” thing all the time. While this is a good character trait, it can sometimes lead to children being taken advantage of by peers or having trouble saying no.” She says to especially teach tweens and adolescents that sometimes saying no is actually the right thing to do and that being responsible is not about always trying to make everyone happy.

Be patient

Give kids space to find their way on their own time. “Not every child will be able to accept independence and responsibility in the exact time frame you would like,” Dr. Blanchard says. “Some children will take longer to be able to do chores that other children in their age group can do. Try not to compare your child to their peers or scold them if they really can’t do something. Praise them when they are doing a good job and praise the process of trying as well.”

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

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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Teaching Kids Consent

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How to talk to children of all ages about appropriate and inappropriate touching By Bethany Braun-Silva

A

s parents, we naturally try to compensate for our kids’ shortcomings. My son is painfully shy around people he doesn’t know, a fact I often tell people before they have a chance to make assumptions about him. However, with family I tend to compensate in the other direction and insist that my son give Aunt So-and-So a hug when we leave family events. However, I recently learned this is not recommended as a parenting technique: Our kids need to learn consent and how to set boundaries themselves. Though you can guide them, they will ultimately have to decide for themselves. If my son doesn’t want to give his aunt a hug, then she will just have to accept that—and so will I. Here are some helpful tips for discussing consent with your kids and helping them to establish their own boundaries.

Young Children

Teaching “no” and “stop”: Empower your children to say no when they don’t want to have physical contact with another person, including relatives. “When kids can speak up about what kind of play and affection is and is not okay with them, even under emotional pressure to please someone, they are far better prepared to handle sexual pressure as they get older,” says Irene van der Zande, founder of Kidpower, a nonprofit that teaches kids and adults skills for child protection, positive communication, and personal safety.

Teach empathy. Very young children don’t understand their actions have consequences. Teach them that if they hit, the

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

person they hit gets hurt. Ask them how they would feel if they were hit. Keep the tone kind and casual, so you don’t induce shame in your child.

Help children understand facial expressions and body language. Being able to read another person is a great way for children to understand consent and also to be able to react appropriately. They can learn to back off if they are overwhelming a friend or offer kind words if they notice a sibling is sad.

Help them recognize when something feels strange. Teaching kids to honor their gut instincts is a great way to teach consent and awareness. If something doesn’t feel right, then it probably isn’t.

Teach your children to speak up in uncomfortable situations.

Talk to them on their level. When discussing issues like touching and consent with young children, keep conversations short, very focused, and to the point, says Lisa Cassidy, Ph.D., a psychologist who practices on Long Island.

Big Kids

Encourage kids to check in with each other during playtime.

Imaginary worlds can sometimes be consuming to children at play, and it’s important to remind them to take a timeout now and again to make sure every one is okay.

Encourage your child to be more mindful. Did he see bullying on the playground? Did she say something hurtful unknowingly? Ask your kids how they would handle the situation

CAMP MARKETPLACE differently next time. Also, this is a good age to discuss stranger safety, Dr. Cassidy says.

Don’t tease, even if you think it’s harmless. Children may start to develop crushes during this time, and it’s important to take your children’s emotions seriously. You can ask questions, but make sure your child feels comfortable enough to talk about it. “As children mature, open conversations are essential,” says Jeffrey Kassinove, Ph.D., clinical director at Therapy West in Manhattan. “Your child needs to feel that they won’t be judged by you. As they move into the pre-teen and teenager stage, emotions are strong. Teaching them about situations that can put them at risk is key.”

Reinforce the idea that your child’s behavior has an effect on others. And encourage her to help others when she can. This includes things as simple as noticing litter on the street, cleaning her room (and noticing what happens when she doesn’t), or sharing with a sibling. If your child learns the effect he has on his surroundings, he will be more inclined to make positive choices.

Teens

Build self-esteem. As kids grow, they become more selfconscious and fall into the habit of comparing themselves to their peers or to images on social media (thanks, Instagram!).

Continue to remind her that she is special and unique. Highlight his talents and accomplishments and remember to keep an eye out for signs of bullying.

Nix “locker room” talk. While this phrase has gotten a lot of press lately, it’s important to teach our children that offensive and disrespectful talk is unacceptable even in private. Remind your teenagers that words carry weight and talking about people like they are objects can have some serious repercussions and leave badly hurt feelings in its wake.

Discuss changing hormones. Teens’ bodies go through a lot of changes. Some can be scary and unusual, so tell your teen that as embarrassing as it may be, she can always come to you with questions about her body.

Set expectations about drinking and partying. Set clear boundaries. Let your child know that you do not want him drinking or doing drugs but you understand that there will be parties. Loading your child with information about drugs and alcohol will be the best defense. Explain how behaviors change when a person gets inebriated and that defenses go down.

Explain that someone who is impaired by drugs or alcohol is not capable of making decisions about whether to be kissed or touched—and drunkenness or being high is certainly no excuse for someone to be physically aggressive or to try to push them to have unwanted physical contact. Empower her to not fall victim to peer pressure.

Talk about sex. This promises to be an awkward but nonetheless important talk. Teaching children what is and is not appropriate when it comes sex will lay the groundwork for them for years to come. Teens, though they hate to admit it, still need guidance from their parents. You are their best resource when it comes to explaining hormones and sexuality. Tell him whatever he decides to do sexually is ultimately his own choice, and though it can be scary, the best thing is for him to be empowered and informed. It’s okay to tell her that a healthy, consensual, sexual relationship can be a wonderful thing—and be sure to emphasize in no uncertain terms that mutual consent and practicing safe sex are non-negotiable.

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Why Camp Is Great

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Kids share why they love summer camp. By Lisa Fogarty

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sk parents about the benefits of a children’s summer camp program and you can pretty much guarantee that those who have either attended camp themselves or whose children return to the same camp each year will wax poetic about the experience. Those of us whose knowledge of camp stems only from sentimental movies may question the value of bunking together in cabins or jumping into murky lakes on frigid mornings. But even skeptics find it difficult to ignore the allure of providing children with the kind of independence that has become increasingly rare in a world of helicopter parenting.

And it certainly doesn’t hurt that research is on the side of camps. In an article for Psychology Today, Michael Ungar, Ph.D., co-director of The Resilience Research Centre, spoke to 300 camp directors and concluded that camp can help make children more resilient and strengthen their coping strategies. Another study performed at Clemson University found camp experiences push children’s boundaries in a positive way, build self-confidence, and have a lasting and measurable impact on children, thanks to skillbuilding and decision-making exercises.

Clearly, more and more adults are hip to the benefits of sleepaway and day camps. But what do kids really think about their camp experiences?

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

At the end of the day, most parents who send their children to camp want to be sure they are investing in their futures—because learning, fostering social connections, and growing as individuals shouldn’t be put on hold simply because the academic year has wrapped up. The proof that camps are helping to expand our kids’ minds and horizons is evident in the lasting memories and lessons children take from camp and carry with them into adulthood.

We spoke with kids and teens who say camp isn’t just a place— it’s a second home and an experience that doles out important life lessons they continue to use long after their camp’s closing ceremonies. In their own words, here’s what they had to say about why they feel camp is beneficial.

“I attended Silver Lake Camp in New York. My favorite thing about camp was playing Color War [a competition in which teams are divided into various colors and each team competes against the others in challenges and events to earn points and rewards]. I liked it a lot because Color War is something you can only do at camp.

It made it feel special.” —Emma R., 14, Long Island “I split my summer vacation between two camps: Felix Neck and the Y camp, both on Martha’s Vineyard [Felix Neck is run by the

Massachusetts Audubon Society, and the YMCA runs the Y camp].

I enjoy catching and observing creatures at Felix Neck, and I love swimming at the Y with my friends. Most of all, I am happy to have time to play outdoors with my summer friends. I even ride on the 4th of July float with fellow Felix Neck campers!” —Abigail, 7½, Massachusetts.

“I attended Brown Ledge Camp in Colchester, VT. My camp experience was unlike any I had ever had before. With all the different activities to choose from, it’s practically impossible to be bored. The thing I enjoyed the most was meeting girls from all over the world. This past year there were campers and counselors from 18 different countries, so now I can say I have friends from almost every continent. There is a real sense of community at my camp and a huge emphasis is put on the freedom to choose.

There is only a single activity that is scheduled and that is riding.

My first year at camp I learned how to become more selfsufficient and I developed good leadership skills that I use every day. Every activity at camp comes with the ability to learn more and more. I gravitated toward riflery—something I never would have thought of doing back home—and I immediately took to it. I still do it now and I even compete. Camp has given me so many opportunities and I wouldn’t trade my camp experience for anything.” —Rebecca P., 17, New Jersey “I loved being with my friends all day, and I loved being outside a lot. I attended a theater camp and it inspired me to join my school’s drama club this year. At camp, we put on several small skits at the end of each week and a larger production once a month. We learned some blocking, how to project our voices without screaming, set design, set direction, and we did acting exercises like improv, breathing techniques, becoming different characters, and changing emotions.” — Sydney C., 13, Brooklyn, who attended Our Lady of Angels’ Brooklyn Sports and Theatre Camp in Bay Ridge “I went to camp for the first time this summer at Allen Park in Farmingdale, Long Island. Every day the camp counselors set up new things for us to do so we never got bored. I loved getting to put on a big dance and show at the end of the summer because we got to practice our dance and work together to make up a cheer.

I liked that we made it up ourselves with only a little bit of help.

Carnival day was also amazing—the park was set up so that different spots were different holidays. It was so much fun getting to make snowmen crafts in the summer!” —Kiera F., 5, Long Island, who attended the Town of Oyster Bay Summer Recreation Program “I went to Windsor Mountain International in New Hampshire from seventh grade until junior year of high school. The camp is known for hosting a large number of campers who come from all over the world. Having camp friends is a very unique experience because you find people are really different at camp than they are in the actual world. I was a nerdy kid who played Dungeons & Dragons and I had no idea I’d meet these kids from New Jersey who wanted to play these nerdy games with me. The social boundaries we develop in our real lives are gone at camp. After a few years [at Windsor Mountain], they offer a lot of different programs once you get into high school for traveling outside of the United States. After I was a camper for a couple of years, I became a Leader in Training and helped with certain classes. I also had a group of campers I worked with and tried to mentor. A year after that, I became a Leader in Action. All of the leaders took a trip to St. Vincent in the Caribbean, where we traveled to different villages on the island and set up a camp for the kids in

those villages. We had a little help, but we were mostly left entirely in charge of setting up those camps. The experience gave us a lot of independence and that independence allowed us to gain a much stronger connection to the community. It wasn’t like we were getting to know the villagers through a third party—it was just us getting to know them. Now, as a college student, I try to travel as much as possible because I learned from that age onward that the best opportunities come from traveling and meeting people.”

—Seamus, 20, New Hampshire “I go to Silver Lake Camp in New York. Everything about the experience is so much fun. But my favorite thing of all is when we have shampoo wars!” —Sabrina R., 11, Long Island “I really love summer camp because you get to meet so many new people, especially the people in your cabin. Also, you can try lots of new activities you may have never had the chance to. Last year at camp, I learned how to windsurf, play the guitar, and canoe, which were all super fun. Camp is an awesome way to find good activities and great friends! I admit, I was nervous to go to a summer camp away from home, but I had so much fun that I didn’t get homesick. On our last night at camp, all of the cabins staying for one week gathered around a campfire in the woods.

We sang songs, made s’mores, and watched as the counselors played funny skits. I had so much fun there! I went to Camp Foley in Minnesota.” —Reese D., 12, Minneapolis, MN Lisa Fogarty is a freelance writer based in New York whose work has appeared in Redbook, Men’s Health, Racked, and other publications. She lives with her husband and two children.

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LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH

SUMMER 2017 MONDAY - FRIDAY PROGRAM July 3-28, 2017 | 9:00am to 3:30pm Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 37th annual summer program for gifted children. The summer program runs on Monday to Friday from July 3-28. The program is open to gifted children entering grades 2-8 in September 2017. 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

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INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

Admission Admi miissio sio i n iis h highly ighly s 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

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camp GUIDE 2017 DAY CAMPS

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.

Camps ‘R’ Us Where Summer Vacation Is Our Job Locations in Baldwin, Bellmore, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Syosset, Valley Stream, and West Islip 516-935-CAMP (2267) campsrus.org info@campsrus.org At Camps ‘R’ Us, we provide families with the most safe, fun, and affordable summer day camp experience available. Our award-winning camp programs offer children ages 3-15 years, a diverse summer experience, including sports, arts and crafts, gaming, swimming, bowling, trips, and special events. Our premier facilities, top-notch staff, and unique affordability have earned us the reputation as one of the best summer camps on Long Island.

Future Stars Summer CampsNassau

The College at Old Westbury, Old Westbury 516-876-3490 Farmingdale State College 2350 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale St. Joseph’s College 155 West Roe Blvd., Patchogue fscamps.com Future Stars Summer Camps offer weekly Sports, STEAM, and Specialty camp programs at three outstanding collegiate locations (The College

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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!

Kenwal Day Camp

100 Drexel Ave., Melville 631-694-3399 kenwaldaycamp.com Kenwal Day Camp is situated on 20 magnificent acres, and has the finest facilities and equipment, to ensure every camper hours of fun, exploration, and excitement. Our philosophy is based on a very simple yet profound statement made by one of our younger campers to his parent: “I didn’t win, but I did my best.” This positive attitude is exactly what Camp Kenwal is all about! Our aim is to provide an atmosphere filled with memories that your child—and you—will share and cherish forever.

Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp

516-238-4586 livoyagersdaycamp.com livoyagersdaycamp@gmail.com Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp offers an exciting, action-packed, and safe summer experience for your child. We offer free transportation in Suffolk and Nassau counties. Our activities include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, laser tag, bowling, horseback riding, talent shows, and movies, plus trips to Splish Splash, Adventureland, Mets and Yankees games, the Long Island Children’s Museum, iMax theaters, Bronx Zoo, Fire Island, Bayville Adventure Park, and mini golf.

Our staff is CPR-, first aid-, and AED-certified. Lifeguards and nurse on staff and licensed. Call for early registration discounts.

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

M.A.T.S.S. Kid’s Gym & Early Childcare Education Center A Rainbow Of Programs Under One Roof!

2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore 516-221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-496-7765 matsskidsgym.com corporate@matsskidsgym.com Infant, toddler, and separation classes bridge development to a comprehensive Early Childhood Education-Nursery School and Gym Program. After-school classes provide movement, gymnastics, sports, and enrichment instruction for both our on-site center and community school children, ages 7 months to 12 years. Summer Camp, Holiday Mini-Camps, Weekend Birthday Party, and Friday “Kids’ Night Out” events provide a year-round place to play and celebrate! Extended day available.

Full day care (3 months and older) available at our Syosset location. Dedicated teachers and staff are N.Y.S ED., CPR- and first aid-certified. Since 1985-A Rainbow of Programs to Play, Learn, and Grow!

Oasis at Tully Park

Jason Miradoli, camp director Michael J. Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Ave., New Hyde Park 718-596-4900 oasischildren.com tullypark@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-to-staff 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.

Oasis On the Sound

Mike Caramanico, camp director 718-596-4900 Port Washington Senior Center 80 Manorhaven Blvd., Manorhaven oasischildren.com onthesound@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-to-staff 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 (firstsixth grades) provides campers with sports, crafts, theater, dance, and Red Cross Swim.

Teen Travel has daily trips, team building, and overnights.

Portledge Summer Adventures

Portledge School 355 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley 516-750-3104 portledge.org/summeradventures mworth@portledge.org Portledge Summer Adventures offers programs for children ages 2-16, including art classes, performance in the play The Wizard of Oz, sports, sciences, rocketry, anatomy, sports medicine, geology, robotics, fashion design, sewing, and an extensive early childhood program—something for everyone! Join us Saturday, Feb. 25 from 11am-1pm for an open house. Sample activities, meet teachers, and tour campus.

For more information, contact mworth@portledge.org.

OUTINGS @ Play Amusements

229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com Bring your campers to the newly renovated @ Play Amusement

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts

2 E. Main St., Smithtown 631-724-3700 smithtownpac.org boxoffice@smithtownpac.org Smithtown Performing Arts Kids Productions provide our young aspiring performers the opportunity to wow and learn at the same time. The shows are selected to entertain adults and kids alike. The fully staged musicals have been a staple in our schedule for the last eight years. As children enjoy camp, keep their weekends full with live entertainment at the Smithtown Performing Arts Canter.

See the complete schedule at smithtownpac.org and call 631724-3700.

SPECIALTY CAMPS Camp Clio

Held at Camp Claire, Lyme, 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 13-17). 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: June 25–July 7. Camp Clio youth: July 2-22. Campers may come for one or more sessions.

Scholarships available.

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

Multiple locations in Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties 888-909-2822 Special Offer: Enroll in February and save $70 a week! destinationscience.org Hey kids! Build a robot, create a Mars Rover, explore the science behind roller coasters, solve a mystery, build and demolish mechanical contraptions, design a Mars colony, and discover in our mad chemistry lab. DS 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 and leaders make STEM learning an adventure! 2017 topics: Robotic Mystery Camp, Crazy Contraption and Demolition Camp, Coaster Science and Mad Chemistry Camp, Journey Into Space, and Movie Making Camp!

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 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.

CA

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this summer—Long Island’s favorite indoor amusement park!

Campers of all ages can explore 40,000 square feet of safe, clean, climate-controlled fun. @ Play provides your campers with 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, roller coaster, a carousel, disco room, and laser tag! Campers will never get bored as they enjoy going from one activity to the next. @ Play is easily accessible from Nassau, Suffolk, and the five boroughs of New York. Call and register your camp today for an outing your campers will never forget.

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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

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for the Arts offers a four-week Summer Arts Academy in July that promises to be a rewarding experience for all aspiring artists, sixth to 12th grade.

The program offers students professional-level classes designed to provide challenging artistic opportunities with other talented students, taught by professional practicing artists. Choose from dance, music, filmmaking, theater, and visual arts. For more information, please visit nassauboces.org/lihsa after March 1 or call 516-622-5678.

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 be running throughout Long Island with weekly full-day and half-day themed sessions such as Eureka!, Robots & Reactions, Robot Engineers, Advanced Robotics, Junior Robotics, Science in Motion, Flight Academy, Detective Academy, Forensic Science, Crazy Chemworks, NASA Space Explorers, and Brixology.

Mathnasium Learning Centers

1759 Grand Ave., Baldwin 516-544-2525 414 Central Ave., Cedarhurst 516-569-1500 11 Great Neck Road, Great Neck 516-482-MATH (6284) 661 Old Country Road, Plainview 516-881-7997 1003 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park 516-616-MATH (6284) 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

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up, keep up, or get ahead in math. Programs run year-round for kids of all ages.

Music Institute of Long Island

90 Community Reformed Church, P.O. Box 119, Manhasset 516-627-7052 milimusic.com miligirls@aol.com Now in our 27th year, Music Institute of Long Island voted No. 1 “Best Music School On The North Shore 2016.” Programs include violin, viola, cello, guitar, piano, voice, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and tuba.

Instructions in traditional and Suzuki methods for ages 3-99, beginner-advanced. MILI offers Chamber Music, Theory, Sight Reading, NYSSMA, and College Audition Preparation. Performances eight times annually at Lincoln Center, Steinway Hall, Carnegie Hall, and for charities.

First prize music competition winners, soloists with orchestras.

MILI-”Educating the Next Generation of Great Musicians.”

Outstanding faculty. Spring, summer, and fall semesters.

The Reading/Writing Learning Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center of Hofstra University

131 Hofstra University 516-463-5805 hofstra.edu/community/slzctr/ slzctr_reading.html Located at Hofstra University, The Reading/Writing Learning Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center is dedicated to providing literacy support to children and youth in a safe and supportive environment. Each class—taught

by New York state-certified teachers—incorporates students’ experiences with literacy in innovative ways to help them develop their strengths as readers and writers.

Personalized consultations offer parents advice about how to support their child’s literacy growth.

Individual or small group instruction is available. Evaluations are conducted by appointment only.

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts

2 E. Main St., Smithtown 631-724-3700 smithtownpac.org boxoffice@smithtownpac.org

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts’ Summer Camp 2017 is an intensive theater-training program for ages 7-18. It is designed to give all students, novices, and seasoned performers alike, the opportunity to participate in the theater experience. Each three-week camp session will be spent rehearsing the showcase or on topics related to the showcase and some days working on theater projects. All campers in each session will take part in a showcase, a trip to see a selected Broadway show, lunch, and transportation. The cost is $1,050 per session.

SPORTIME Summer Camps

Several locations in Nassau, Suffolk, Manhattan, and Westchester 888-698-3664 sportimecamps.com camps@sportimeny.com SPORTIME Summer Camps offer children ages 3-16 a great combination of sports instruction and games, swimming, arts and crafts, and exciting special events.

Camp activities include age- and level-appropriate tennis, soccer, softball, basketball, flag football, and floor hockey. Campers learn fundamental skills, participate in competitive drills and tournaments, learn game strategies, and receive individualized attention— all in a fun, safe, nurturing environment. Specialized camps for tennis, volleyball, and hockey are also available at select locations.

Visit us at sportimecamps.com, call 888-698-3664, or email camps@sportimeny.com to find the perfect camp for your child.

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.com 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-, four-, and seven-week sessions are offered from June 26-Aug. 11.

Village East Gifted Camp ThinkTank Summer 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 is an academic enrichment program offering classes year-round to gifted students for ages 3-18.

Its summer program, Camp ThinkTank, offers threeand four-day workshops for participants in second-sixth grades. Using its trademarked teaching approach, the following topics will be covered: Civil Engineering and Infrastructures; Cultural Geography; Human Civilization and Achievements; Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology; Architectural Symbolism and Design; Philosophy and Artistic Expression; Culinary Science and Techniques; Entrepreneurship; Marketing and Animal Studies; and Statistical Game Design.

The workshop dates are July 5-7, July 11-14, Aug. 7-10, and Aug 23-25. Multiple workshop and sibling discounts are available.

To check workshop availability and to register, email info@ villageeastgifted.com.

CAMP MARKETPLACE

C O L L E G E AT O L D W E S T B U R Y F A R M I N G D A L E S TAT E C O L L E G E S T. J O E ’ S C O L L E G E P AT C H O G U E S O U T H A M P T O N AT N O R T H S E A P A R K

20+camps 516.876.3490 or 631.609.0438

Summer 2017 Enroll Early

WEEKLY SESSIONS SPORTS & SPECIALTY PROGRAMS

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OUTINGS: Rye Nature Center

nymetroparents.com/outings

An Immersive Nature Experience in Rye 1

Courtesy Rye Nature Center

Explore and learn about the wilderness year-round at Rye Nature Center, New York’s environmental conservation organization. ›› By Melissa A. Kay 3

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1 As the temperature dips, Nanderwhere Pond is still as serene as ever. 2 Fresh greenery and lush landscaping make the garden a sight to see. 3 The observation hive allows visitors to see honeybees hard at work. 4 Rye Nature Center is set on 47 acres of forest and trails so families can walk in the wilderness and take in the natural surroundings. 5 Ecology students enjoy winter activities.

R

ye Nature Center protects natural resources and promotes environmental education and stewardship within its urban forest, wildlife sanctuary, and surrounding community.

The independent, nonprofit organization offers exciting programs for kids and adults of all ages and abilities.

Year-Round Fun

There’s so much to explore at Rye Nature Center. See honeybees in action by viewing the traditional and observational hives.

Nature’s Playground features natural elements, such as tree stumps. And there’s also a new Con Edison STEM Challenge Course.

Nanderwhere Pond, one of the center’s favorite teaching sites, is full of natural beauty year-round. Families can take a hike along the surrounding trail, or any of the 47 acres of forest trails.

Explorers of all ages can go hunting for rocks and minerals at the Old Quarry.

Weekly ecology classes allow elementary school kids to get outdoors and learn. There 32

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

are also mommy/daddy-and-me classes, along with public programs and festivals.

Annual Events

Rye Nature Center’s summer day camp for preschool through 10th-grade students offers a hands-on approach to science and the environment.

Oktoberfest is an annual fundraiser with delicious food and fun activities.

Wilderness Encounters, an immersive outside program, challenges elementary school students to work together to explore the woodlands in the winter, spring, and fall.

The Forest Kindergarten program, also in the winter, spring, and fall, uses Swiss concepts and principles to encourage children to connect to the natural world.

Rye Nature Center offers a Preschool Ecology extended-day program, and its Forest Preschool program will be held five days a week, beginning in September 2017.

Fifty percent of class time will be outside.

February Highlights

The annual Old-Fashioned Winter’s

Afternoon with a log-sawing contest, nature crafts, hiking, pony rides, candy making, archery, and more will be held Feb. 4.

Rye nature center also has vacation camps for preschool through elementary school kids with programs throughout the month in which kids can learn about winter animals, glaciers, forest ecology, and more.

On Feb. 11 and Feb. 25 see a tree being tapped, learn about the production of sap, and visit the Maple Sugar Shed to get a sneak peek at the maple sugaring process.

Details

Address: Rye Nature Center, 873 Boston Post Road, Rye Directions: Approximately a 1-hour drive from Garden City Hours: Visitor Center, Museum, and Office: Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Grounds, trails, and playgrounds: daily, dawn to dusk Admission: Free (membership required for special programs) For more information: ryenaturecenter.org, info@ryenaturecenter.org, or 914-967-5150

CAMP MARKETPLACE

SPORTIME SUMMER CAMPS

COME OUT AND PLAY!

ur k about o Call and as Break Camps l o Scho lBreak February com/Schoo eNY.

rtim www.Spo

Long Island’s Leader for Summer Tennis, Sports and Fun Camps!

Preschool | Under 10 Tennis | Tennis & Sports | JMTA Tennis Training Volleyball | Hockey | more!

With camp locations throughout Long Island, the Hamptons and in New York, Westchester and the Capital Region, we’ve got your summer fun covered!

Camp programs vary at each SPORTIME location.

Visit us online to find the perfect camp for you!

www.SportimeCamps.com | 888-698-3664

livoyagersdaycamp.com

LongIslandParent 33

CAMP MARKETPLACE

CAMPAIGN FOR THE

PURSUE YOUR PASSION...

The Long Island High School for the Arts (LIHSA) offers a unique opportunity

Reading/Writing Learning Clinic at the

Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center Literacy Instruction programs, for children and youth, offer: • Individual or small-group classes, in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere • Classes taught by New York state-certified teachers • Personalized consultations that offer parents straightforward advice

about how to support their child’s literacy growth • Literacy Instruction that builds on each learner’s strengths to build

as part of your free, public high school education to talented young artists who are actively exploring the world of

dance, drama, filmmaking, instrumental & vocal music, theater technology, musical theatre and visual arts

Also check out our

Summer Arts Academy for Grades 6-12th

OPEN HOUSE

confidence and improve reading and writing proficiency.

Saturday,

SPRING CLASSES ARE NOW FORMING! For more information, including registration and summer program options, visit hofstra.edu/RWLClinic or call 516-463-5805.

Ad SaltzmanRW_Spring2017_NassauParent_QtrPg.indd 1

FEB 4

239 Cold Spring Rd, Syosset (516) 622-5678 mstencel@nasboces.org

10am-2pm

SNOW DATE FEB 11

MUSIC INSTITUTE OF LONG ISLAND

12/15/16 2:39 PM

Voted # 1 Best Music School on the North Shore 2016

Open to all ages & levels Suzuki & Traditional methods

All Instruments & Voice OUTSTANDING FACULTY

Spring Semester Begins February 8th

NYSSMA & Audition Preparation, Concerts

Directors: Carol & Geri Kushner

90 Plandome Road, Manhasset, NY 11030 www.MiliMusic.com • 516-627-7052

Join

NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions and receive special notices. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Red Yarn (No. 4 on our list).

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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FEBRUARY CALENDAR

36 Editor’s Hot Tickets 38 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!,

Animal Lovers 39 Must-Sees in NYC 40 Mini Musicians WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar

EDITOR: DEE SAUNDERS nassaucal@davlermedia.com

41 Crafty Kids,

Special Needs

42 Smarty Pants,

Little Foodies 43 Show Time!

44 Movers & Shakers,

Holiday Fun 45 On Screen

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EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

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

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

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‘Taj Express: The Bollywood Musical Revue’

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 3, 8pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: Taj Express explodes with the sounds of India and Bollywood, using film, dance, and music.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Bollywood movies have been entertaining millions of people in India for generations.

WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

‘Twinkle Tames A Dragon: The Musical’

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WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 2pm WHERE: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Twinkle has always wanted a pet and is thrilled when Fairy Godmother grants her wish. While her friends get cute little pets, a naughty pet dragon named Scruffy is not what Twinkle had in mind.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A hilarious musical with dragons, fairies, and friendship—oh my!

WANT TO GO? $20. 516-877-4040. aupac.adelphi.edu.

Winterfest

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 1-4pm WHERE: Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point AGES: All WHAT: A celebration of the coldest season with activities like a treasure hunt, stormy crafts, and a winter scene for “I Spy.” WHY WE LOVE IT: The fireplace will be roaring and will make this frosty season enjoyable for all!

WANT TO GO? $20. 516-571-7901. thesandspointpreserve.org.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

4

Red Yarn

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 11:30am and 2pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Red Yarn leads audiences into the Deep Woods, a magical forest where all the animals of American folk songs live together.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Families will sing, dance, laugh, and experience the joy of community.

WANT TO GO? $9 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Masters of Illusion Live!

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WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 7pm WHERE: NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury AGES: All WHAT: You’ll see grand illusions, levitating women, appearances and vanishes, escapes, comedy magic, sleight of hand, and beautiful dancers, all rolled up into a live show.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s the time-honored art of the master illusionist combined with the speed and modern design of the 21st century.

WANT TO GO? $39.50 and up. 516-334-0800. thetheatreatwestbury.com.

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Music at the Mansion: The Master Keys

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 17, 7pm WHERE: Coe Hall-Planting Fields, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The Master Keys is a unique jazz and blues band that is stacked with some of the finest young musicians in New York City today.

WHY WE LOVE IT: They’re from an era when real musicians, with real

CAMP MARKETPLACE CAMP EAST WOODS OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2017

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instruments, reached and moved people through music that was live, real, and raw.

WANT TO GO? $30. 516-922-8670. plantingfields.org.

Call Today!

Open House: 10AM - 1PM Feb. 11, Mar. 4, April 1 & April 28

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

Improvised Shakespeare

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 25, 8pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: All WHAT: The Improvised Shakespeare Co. creates a fully improvised Shakespearean masterpiece right before your very eyes.

All of the dialogue is said for the first time, the characters are created as you watch, and if every you’re wondering where the story is going, so are they!

WHY WE LOVE IT: Throw away your SparkNotes; this is Shakespeare on the spot and it’s all made up and hilarious!

WANT TO GO? $29-$39. 516-767-6444. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Summer Day Camp June 26th - August 11th Single or Multi Week Options Available • 9-3PM Extended Day Available Fun & Innovating Program Includes: • Aquatics • Music • Arts & Crafts • Woodworking • Junior Chefs • Performing Arts • Creative Writing • Improv • Team & Individual Sports

‘Princess Frog: A Musical Fairy Tale’

For more information www.campeastwoods.com / camp@eastwoods.org / 516.922.4400 ext. 127

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Unlimited Sports Action

Winter Programs

SPORTS ENRICHMENT CLASSES •AGES 2-10

Developmental classes that work on motor skills, hand-eye coordination, socialization, and sport-specific skills. Classes include baseball, basketball, flag football, lacrosse, multi-sport, soccer & volleyball.

SCHOOL VACATION PROGRAMS •AGES 3-10

Half-day and Full-day drop-off is offered to our athletes when school is not in session. “Turf-time” is a multi-sport program where the athletes are broken down by age. Athletes can choose from playing baseball, dodge ball, soccer, basketball, obstacle coarse, and more!

BIRTHDAY PARTIES •AGES 2 & UP

We provide everything needed so that parents can sit back, relax, and enjoy the party! Athletes can choose from a variety of sports and we will make sure to cater to your every need!

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BASEBALL

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WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 26, 2pm WHERE: The Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, 100 Crescent Beach Road, Glen Cove AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Author Jeffrey Sussman’s Max Baer and Barney Ross: Jewish Heroes of Boxing is about two champions of boxing in the ’20s and ’30s, who were an inspiration for Jewish fans across the country and throughout the world. The book paints an evocative picture of boxing and the crucial role it played in an era of rising anti-Semitism.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a behind the scenes look at boxing history.

WANT TO GO? $10 suggested donation. 516-571-8040. hmtcli.org. ››

31 Yellow Cote Road, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 @campeastwoods

•

Author Lecture and Book Signing: Jeffrey Sussman

For an additional fee

*

VOLLEYBALL

AGES: All WHAT: See Elmo, Grover, and Cookie Monster live onstage as they welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street. This musical production will be a big hit with the preschool set.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Celebrate cultural similarities, from singing and dancing, to sharing cookies!

WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 866-858-0008. theateratmsg.com.

Featuring Ovations Dance Academy for the theater enthusiast & Serious Science Camp for the budding scientist*

•

WHEN: Feb. 16-26, Thursday-Monday, see website for times WHERE: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown, Manhattan

20%

On Tuition For 7 Weeks!

SOCCER

9

‘Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend’

Private Swim & Music Instruction Available

SOCCER

8

Save Up To

•

WHEN: Feb. 15-25, see website for schedule WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Mix three wild boys, who happen to be princes, one frustrated Queen, three magic rocks, and an enchanted frog, and you have the makings of a modern fairy tale.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It reminds us all to trust our instincts.

WANT TO GO? $9 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

CAMP MORE, SAVE MORE PROMOTION!

17415971H705

7

Located on 46 Acres in Oyster Bay, NY For Ages 2 - 15 Half Day & 3 Day Options Available

30 Beechwood Avenue • Port Washington, NY 11050 • (516) 767-7675

www.UnlimitedSportsAction.com LongIslandParent 37

ANIMAL LOVERS Animal Show

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 10, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching & Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre AGES: All WHAT: Meet some of our animals face to face. You’ll learn about their special traits while getting a rare glimpse of them outside of their enclosures.

WANT TO GO? $7. 516-764-0045. cstl.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.

Kids Workshop FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 9am-12pm WHERE: Home Depot, 600 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Kids learn to build or create a useful, fun product.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-8500. homedepot.com.

Day Camp Open House FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 10am-12pm WHERE: Beth Sholom Day Camp, 401 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Meet camp leadership, tour the beautiful indoor and outdoor facility, and ask all of your questions. The program allows children to try new things, build friendships, and discover their interests in a safe and nurturing environment.

WANT TO GO? 516-621-9257. bethsholomdaycamp.com.

Camellia House Weekend FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 19, 10am-4pm WHERE: Coe Hall-Planting Fields, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay AGES: All WHAT: Come and enjoy the Annual Camellia House weekend featuring live music, walking tours of the Camellia House, Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, and activities for children.

WANT TO GO? 516-922-8670. plantingfields.org.

Towels for the Mary Brennan Inn FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 21, 6:30pm WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: All WHAT: The Mary Brennan Inn provides free showers for those in need and as a result are in constant need of towels. Volunteer to decorate towels.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

Books Before Bedtime FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 28, 6:30pm WHERE: Rockville Centre Library, 221 Village Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy this special storytime before bedtime. PJs are encouraged.

WANT TO GO? 516-766-6257. rvclibrary.org.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Petting Zoo FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 23, 10:30am WHERE: Rockville Centre Library, 221 Village Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: All WHAT: Get up close with the cute and interesting animals of Green Meadows Farm Petting Zoo. WANT TO GO? 516-766-6257. rvclibrary.org.

Seal Walks

WHEN: Through March 12: Saturday-Sunday, call for times WHERE: Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center, Jones Beach State Park, 1000 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: A State Parks naturalist leads a 1½-hour walk to an area where up to four species of seal can be seen. The outdoor walk to view seals in the waters surrounding Jones Beach is preceded by an indoor introduction.

WANT TO GO? $4; free for children younger than 3. 516-785-3614. nysparks.com/events.

Seal Watching Weekend Cruises

WHEN: Through April 30: Saturday-Sunday, 1pm WHERE: Captain Lou Fleet & Sapphire Cruises, 28 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport AGES: All WHAT: A naturalist is on board to discuss the behavior and biology of seals and other wildlife encountered.

WANT TO GO? $26; $22 children ages 4-12. 631-369-9840. captloufleet.com.

The Butterfly Conservatory

WHEN: Through May 28: daily, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: One of the museum’s most popular, annual events, this exhibit features up to 500 live, iridescent, tropical butterflies from the Americas, Africa, and Asia.

WANT TO GO? $27; $22 seniors and students; $16 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-769-5100. amnh.org. ››

CAMP MARKETPLACE

PORTLEDGE

CityBound

˘

N Y C Courtesy Better Chinatown

Must-Sees in

SUMMER˘ ADVENTURES

7 Weeks of Fun — June 26 - August 11

OPEN HOUSE Crowds gather to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

SAT. FEB. 25

Rooster Revelry

11 AM - 1 PM

Courtesy Sesame Workshop™

Celebrate Chinese culture and welcome the Year of the Rooster at the 18th Annual New York City Lunar New Year Parade & Festival in Chinatown. Every year thousands bundle up and head to the historic neighborhood to watch traditional Chinese New Year performances, see fantastic decorations and costumes, throw confetti, and enjoy great food. There is also a cultural festival at the end in Sara. D Roosevelt Park. Feb. 5; 12-4:30pm, parade kick-off at 1pm. The parade itself is best suited to older children due to the noise and crowds. Age: 5 and older. Begins on the corner of Hester and Mott streets, Chinatown. Suggested viewing spots are East Broadway or by Grand Street and Sara Roosevelt Park. 917-660-2402. betterchinatown.com.

355 Duck Pond Road Locust Valley, NY 11560 516-750-3202 www.portledge.org

Arts classes: Perform in the Wizard of Oz, Sewing, Pottery, Painting, Fashion Design, and more Science classes: Robotics, Geology, DNA & Dissection, Rocketry, and more Chess and Computer classes Academics: AP Prep in French, Italian, and Spanish; Study Skills Prep for Middle School; Geometry Much More!!

Attend an Open House or arrange a private tour by contacting Melissa Worth at 516-750-3104, email mworth@portledge.org, or visit www.portledge.org/summeradventures

P O R T L E D G E S C H O O L

Destination Science

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

Save $70/wk!

Ends 2/15/17 12 Long Island Locations destinationscience.org 888-909-2822

Watch your favorite characters live on stage.

Your Favorite Furry Friends See Elmo, Grover, and Cookie Monster live onstage as they welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street.

Sesame Street Live is a fun musical production that is sure to be a big hit with the preschool set, featuring fun songs and stories that young kids can relate to, performed by their favorite characters. Feb. 16-26; see website for show times. Age: All. $15 and up. The Theater at Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Midtown. 866-858-0008. theateratmsg.com.

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LongIslandParent 39

The Musical Box: ‘Selling England By The Pound’

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 9, 8pm WHERE: NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The Musical Box has performed close to 1,000 concerts in front of more than a million audience members in some of the most prestigious venues in the world.

WANT TO GO? $39.50 and up. 516-334-0800. thetheatreatwestbury.com.

Tiempo Libre

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 10, 8pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: An irresistible, dance-inducing mix of Latin jazz and Cuban son.

WANT TO GO? $22. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

Jazz on Stage with Matt Wilson: Kate McGarry & Keith Ganz Duo WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 2:15pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Pre-performance discussions start at 2:15, followed by performances on the Concert Hall stage. Audience member seating is general admission.

WANT TO GO? $40. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

Jazz Quartet FREE

MINI

MUSICIANS Long Island Harmonica Club Workshop FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 7pm WHERE: Massapequa Public Library, 40 Harbour Lane, Massapequa AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Have an interest in learning to play the harmonica? This is the place to be.

WANT TO GO? 516-799-0770. massapequalibrary.org.

ETHEL

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 2, 7pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: ETHEL invigorates the contemporary music scene with exuberance, intensity, imaginative programming, and exceptional artistry.

WANT TO GO? $43. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

The History of American Rock and Roll

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 8pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Featuring Charlie Thomas and the Drifters with their hits such as “There Goes My Baby,” “Save The Last Dance For Me,” and “On Broadway.”

WANT TO GO? $35-$50. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 6-9pm WHERE: Aperitif Bistro, 242 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Get ready for the smooth and beautiful sounds of a jazz quartet featuring Carol Sudhalter on saxophone with Lou Messana on guitar, Al Cardillo on bass, and Brian Woodruff on drums.

WANT TO GO? 516-594-3404. aperitifbistro.com.

Trio Solisti

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 17, 8pm WHERE: Adelphi University, 1 South Ave., Garden City AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The ensemble has a varied discography on a number of record labels, and actively champions contemporary music, collaborating with many leading composers.

WANT TO GO? $35. 516-877-3010. adelphi.edu.

Steve Hackett Concert

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 23, 8pm WHERE: NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the classic album Wind and Wuthering, Steve and his band will be performing several tracks from the album as well as fan favorites such as “The Musical Box,” as well as other numbers never performed before by Steve’s band.

WANT TO GO? $45 and up. 516-247-5213. thetheatreatwestbury.com.

TOBAY Concert FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 26, 1pm WHERE: Massapequa Public Library, 40 Harbour Lane, Massapequa AGES: All WHAT: Gemini Journey performs a magical musical tour around the world with violin, cello, and percussion.

WANT TO GO? 516-799-0770. massapequalibrary.org.

WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: All WHAT: Come in and make a craft.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

Deconstructed-Reconstructed Books FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 23, 7pm WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Artist Maryann Scheblein-Dawson will help you create unique pieces of art from deconstructed, discarded books.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

Little Love Bugs

CRAFTY KIDS Mommy and Me Fun with p[ART]y Art FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 8, 1pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Make something special with your little one.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Storycraft FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 2pm WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Kids make a craft after listening to a story.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

In the Days of Honest Abe

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 2-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Come celebrate the birthday of one of America’s famous presidents and make your own miniature Honest Abe, complete with his signature stovepipe hat.

WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Teen p[ART]y Art: Sculpting FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2:30pm WHERE: Floral Park Public Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Let your artistic juices flow and create a unique piece of sculpture out of clay.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

WHEN: Feb. 20-24, Monday-Friday, 1-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Create your own little love bug craft to take home.

WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516224-5800. licm.org.

Neiman Marcus Family Sundays at the Museum

WHEN: Feb. 5-26, Sundays, 1pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Family Sundays allow 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.

Crafts For Kids FREE

WHEN: Feb. 4-26, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm WHERE: Lakeshore Learning Store, 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Kids will have a ball making crafts that they can use or display.

WANT TO GO? 516-616-9360. lakeshorelearning.com.

SPECIAL NEEDS ‘Special Needs Got Talent’

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 7pm WHERE: BayWay Arts Center, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: All WHAT: In the style of the The X Factor, this competition is designed to find the best stars on Long Island. Contestants ages 7 and older perform for prizes and the opportunity to be considered the best on Long Island.

WANT TO GO? $15. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org. ››

Family Art Making Days

WHEN: Feb. 21-23, Tuesday-Thursday, 11am-2pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Different art projects will be offered each of the three days.

WANT TO GO? $10 with admission: $12; $8 seniors; $4 children ages 4-12. 516-484-9337. nassaumuseum.org/events.

Vacation Drop-In Crafts FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 23, 3pm

LongIslandParent

Green Teen Series: Wild About Conservation

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 18, 11am-3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Join in for engaging, hands-on activities to bring science to life.

WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1.

516-224-5800. licm.org.

History of Dolls of Color: Celebrating Black History Month

SMARTY PANTS Saturday Morning with Nature Nick FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 4, 10am WHERE: East Woods School, 31 Yellow Cote Road, Oyster Bay AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Parents are welcome to stay for the show or tour the school while the kids enjoy the presentation.

WANT TO GO? 516-922-4400. eastwoods.org.

Balloon Speed Racers

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 2pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Learn about air pressure and motion, and make balloon-powered racers.

WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Black History Month Speaker: Ken E. Nwadike, Jr. FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 9, 1-2pm WHERE: St. Joseph’s College Long Island, 155 W. Roe Blvd., Patchogue AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This activist is the founder of the Free Hugs Project, a program that engages students in conversations of understanding and compassion.

WANT TO GO? 631-687-4593. sjcny.edu/long-island.

Sunday Science: Physics Fun

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching & Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Find out how much fun physics can be.

WANT TO GO? $14. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

STEM Projects Day FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 15, 4pm WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Try the robotics kits borrowed from the Nassau Library System.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

Open House FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 16, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Fusion Academy, 260 Crossways Park Drive, Woodbury AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Tiffany Bellferder, head of school, will share what makes Fusion Academy different, and staff will be available to answer questions.

WANT TO GO? 516-364-5414. fusionwoodbury.com.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 19, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3 and older WHAT: View April Marius’ collection of rare African American dolls.

WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1.

516-224-5800. licm.org.

Mixed Media Mashup

WHEN: Feb. 20-24, Monday-Friday, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Work with a mixture of materials to create a layered masterpiece.

WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Sunday Science: Squid Dissection

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 26, 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching & Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will get to investigate the body of a squid, inside and out.

WANT TO GO? $14. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

LITTLE FOODIES Chocolate Bowl 2017

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 5, 11am-4pm WHERE: Chocolate Works Garden City, 916 Old Country Road, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Make and decorate chocolate football treats.

WANT TO GO? $25. 516-833-9198. chocolateworks.com/gardencity.

Cake Decorating

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 7, 7pm WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 9-17 WHAT:. Chef Mary T. Sydor will help you decorate a cake for Valentine’s Day. WANT TO GO? $3 materials fee. 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

Central Avenue Chefs FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 3pm WHERE: Massapequa Public Library, 523 Central Ave., Massapequa AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Make delicious chocolate-covered treats for Valentine’s Day. WANT TO GO? 516-798-4607. massapequalibrary.org.

Read, Cook, Eat: High Tea FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 16, 2pm WHERE: Rockville Centre Library, 221 Village Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: 13 and older WHAT: A great culinary adventure.

WANT TO GO? 516-766-6257. rvclibrary.org.

SHOW TIME! ‘Peter Pan’

WHEN: Through Feb. 4: Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 12pm WHERE: BroadHollow at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: Fly away to Never Land with Peter and the Darling children in this adaptation of Disney’s beloved, animated film.

WANT TO GO? $11. 516-775-4420. broadhollow.org.

‘Once’

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 8pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: Once tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs.

WANT TO GO? $34 and up. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

SingStrong International A Cappella Music Festival

WHEN: Feb. 10-12, Friday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Adelphi University, 1 South Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Five completely different concerts and two days of classes featuring a cappella pop, jazz, doo-wop, barbershop, and even beatbox artists—all performing with nothing but the human voice.

WANT TO GO? $30. 516-877-3010. adelphi.edu.

Kathy Mattea: The Acoustic Living Room

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 7pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: All WHAT: Grammy Award- winning singer Kathy Mattea and her longtime collaborator, guitarist Bill Cooley, welcome you into “The Acoustic Living Room” to share songs and stories near and dear to their hearts.

WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 516-767-6444. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Beth Hart Concert

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 19, 8pm WHERE: The Space at Westbury, 250 Post Ave., Westbury AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Riding a creative tidal wave, there’s no doubt that Beth Hart’s two-decade career is the ultimate thrill-ride, hooking up with the biggest names in music and rocking the house each night with that celebrated burnt-honey voice.

WANT TO GO? $29.50-$45. 516-283-5566. thespaceatwestbury.com.

Bravo Italiano FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: All WHAT: From Italian opera to film and cinema, the dynamic program will feature opera, musical theater, and classical piano works by Puccini, Verdi, Bellini and more.

WANT TO GO? 516-767-6444. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

‘Aesop’s Fables’

WHEN: Feb. 21-23, Tuesday, 11am; Thursday, 1pm

WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: 3-12 WHAT: The classic collection of stories provides children with valuable life lessons that they will carry for a lifetime.

WANT TO GO? $11 in advance; $13 at door. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

Adelphi’s Best of Broadway: Louder Than Words

WHEN: Feb. 25-26, Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 4pm WHERE: Adelphi University, 1 South Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Taking inspiration from a wide variety of shows both old and new, this program showcases songs that make your heart soar when words are not enough.

WANT TO GO? $25. 516-877-3010. adelphi.edu.

‘Annie’

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 26, 3pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: Featuring book and score by Tony Award®-winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse, and Martin Charnin, Annie includes such unforgettable songs as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” plus the eternal anthem of optimism, “Tomorrow.”

WANT TO GO? $33 and up. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

‘Madagascar’

WHEN: Feb. 4-26, Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 12pm WHERE: The Showplace at The Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore AGES: All WHAT: Take a musical journey out of the zoo and onto the stage with your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends from the blockbuster DreamWorks film.

WANT TO GO? $12. 516-599-6870. plazatheatrical.com. ››

LongIslandParent 43

HOLIDAY FUN Be Mine Ball

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 11, 6-9pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Gather up those you love, dress in red, get your face painted, dance the night away, and make some lovely craft projects to take home for someone special in your life.

WANT TO GO? $11. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Play Hooray Kids FREE

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 3, 12pm WHERE: Floral Park Public Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Sing, dance, and play with our friend Molly Mouse.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Kids’ Night Out: Pajama Party

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 3, 6:15-8:15pm WHERE: M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym, 171 Eileen Way, Syosset AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Wear your pajamas and enjoy dinner, a bedtime craft, and plenty of gym time activities. Support the LI Pajama Foundation by donating a pair of children’s pajamas.

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 siblings. 516-496-7765. matsskidsgym.com.

Family Preschool Hour FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 7, 11am WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Enjoy an hour of singing, dancing, storytelling, and a craft.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Music and Movement

WHEN: Feb. 1-22, Wednesdays, 11:30am WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Musical instruments and sing-along songs get the youngest children’s bodies moving.

WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Winter Recess Mini-Camp

WHEN: Feb. 21-23, Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-2pm WHERE: M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym, 171 Eileen Way, Syosset AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Come join in for crafts, games, and gym time. Lunch will be included.

WANT TO GO? $50 per day. 516-496-0208. matsskidsgym.com.

Open Bounce

WHEN: Through Dec. 28: 4:15pm WHERE: BounceU, 101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale AGES: 3-12 WHAT: The sessions include music, games, and of course, play time on the giant inflatable toys. Parents must remain on premises.

WANT TO GO? $12.95. 631-777-5867. bounceu.com.

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Let’s Fall In Love: A Swingtime Big Band Valentine

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 3pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Long Island’s own premier big band celebrates Valentine’s Day with an exciting program of classic love songs from the swing era and the Great American Songbook.

WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

Love Songs for Valentine’s Day Lovers FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 12, 3pm WHERE: Floral Park Public Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Mel Haber presents a selection of love songs from the Gershwins, Jerome Kern, Berlin, and Ella Fitzgerald.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Valentine’s Craft by Sueli Zaquem FREE

WHEN: Monday, Feb. 13, 4pm WHERE: Bellerose Library, 250-08 Hillside Ave., Bellerose AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make a gift for someone you love for Valentine’s Day. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8644. queenslibrary.org.

Valentine Picture Frame FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 14, 7pm WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Decorate a wooden frame for Valentine’s Day. WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

Valentine’s Day Chocolate Love

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 14, 11am-4pm WHERE: Chocolate Works Garden City, 916 Old Country Road, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Stop in on Valentine’s Day to make and decorate your own chocolate heart candy bars.

WANT TO GO? $25. 516-833-9198. chocolateworks.com/gardencity.

Shine a Light on Love FREE

‘Hilleman: A Perilous Quest to Save the World’s Children’

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 16, 7pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: A film about Maurice R. Hilleman who spent his life in relative obscurity despite being responsible for more than half of the vaccines children receive today.

WANT TO GO? $8. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 15, 4pm WHERE: Bellerose Library, 250-08 Hillside Ave., Bellerose AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Give a broken heart a “break.” Families can reminisce about those extraordinary moments and express themselves through storytelling, poetry, or a craft project. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 718-831-8644. queenslibrary.org.

Movie: ‘Sully’ FREE

Happy Hearts Wreaths

Movie: ‘Loving’ FREE

WHEN: Feb. 1-17, daily, 2:30-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Create your own heart wreath to display in your loving home.

WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516224-5800. licm.org.

Winter Break Chocolate Making Fun

WHEN: Feb. 20-24, Monday-Friday, 11am-4pm WHERE: Chocolate Works Garden City, 916 Old Country Road, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: A week of delicious chocolate-making fun. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $25-$30. 516-833-9198. chocolateworks.com/gardencity.

Mardi Gras Masks

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 26, 2-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Make a colorful and festive feather mask to wear home in celebration of Mardi Gras.

WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516224-5800. licm.org.

ON SCREEN Movie: ‘Light Between Oceans’ FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 2, 6:30pm WHERE: Massapequa Public Library, 40 Harbour Lane, Massapequa AGES: All WHAT: A lighthouse keeper and his wife living off the coast of Western Australia raise a baby they rescue from a drifting row boat.

WANT TO GO? 516-799-0770. massapequalibrary.org.

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 16, 1:30pm and 6:30pm WHERE: Massapequa Public Library, 40 Harbour Lane, Massapequa AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The heroic actions of a pilot saved the lives of his plane’s 155 passengers.

WANT TO GO? 516-799-0770. massapequalibrary.org.

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 24, 2pm WHERE: Rockville Centre Library, 221 Village Ave., Rockville Centre AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple, whose challenge of their anti-miscegenation arrest for their marriage in Virginia led to a legal battle that would end at the U.S. Supreme Court.

WANT TO GO? 516-766-6257. rvclibrary.org.

Film Screening: ‘Cartier-Bresson’s Century’

WHEN: Through March 5: Tuesday-Sunday, 11am WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: This documentary includes clips of Cartier-Bresson discussing his life and work.

WANT TO GO? $12; $8 seniors; $4 children ages 4-12. 516-4849338. nassaumuseum.org.

‘Journey to Space’ 3-D Movie

WHEN: Through June 30: Monday-Friday, 12pm and 3pm; SaturdaySunday, 1pm and 4pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens AGES: All WHAT: Moviegoers will learn about the important role of the International Space Station, uncover what NASA and the space community are working on, and discover the challenges they face to carry out bold missions such as capturing asteroids and landing astronauts on Mars.

WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children with admission: $15; $12 children, students, and seniors. 718-699-0005. nysci.org

‘From Italy with Love’ Presented by Marilyn Carminio FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: All WHAT: This multimedia presentation unveils the personal stories of both Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni, and examines the impact of their work in the 17 films they made together.

WANT TO GO? 516-767-6444. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Coming up next month: MARCH 5: A Year with Frog and Toad at Tilles Center, Brookville MARCH 15: The Five Irish Tenors at Madison Theatre at Molloy College, Rockville Centre MARCH 31: Hot Peas ‘N Butter Workshop at Landmark on Main Street, Port Washington

LongIslandParent 45

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Indoor Play Spaces

››

Research by Jonathan Perry

If you’re looking for a fun place for your kids to get the sillies out, don’t let the cold weather keep you home. There are plenty of enjoyable ways to keep children amused during the winter months, including bounce houses, sports centers, and indoor gyms. When you’re looking to get out of the house but still stay warm, you can drop in at these places on a moment’s notice, no reservation or membership required.

Hours are subject to change—please call ahead or check the website to confirm.

At Tot Spot, kids can play pretend in the train, grocery store, or construction site, as well as wiggle, jump, and slide.

Long Island’s Laser Bounce 2710 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown 516-342-1330; lilaserbounce.com Toddlers to tweens will enjoy this indoor play area. There are rooms filled with bouncers, a big ball-filled climbing area with ball cannons, a laser-tag arena, a full-size game arcade, and a stuff-a-bear station.

Active Kidz Long Island 200 Robbins Lane, Jericho 516-621-6600; activekidzlongisland.com This indoor play space includes mazes, laser tag, inflatables, and a ball pit and cannon area. For littler ones, the toddler center is a safe play space.

BounceU of Oceanside 3495 Lawson Blvd., Oceanside 516-593-5867; bounceu.com There are bouncy houses galore at this indoor play space. Open bounce is offered, as well as family night and preschool events.

Dreamnastics Waldbaums Shopping Center 38 Great Neck Road, Great Neck 516-829-8099; dreamnastics.com Your little tumbler will love the open gym access, which includes the balance beam, tunnels, trampolines, and slides. Open play is offered whenever there is no class.

Fun Station USA 40 Rocklyn Ave., Lynbrook 516-599-7757; funstationusa.com Fun Station USA offers video games, laser tag, bumper cars, a carousel, and a multi-level play maze to keep your child entertained. All-day play passes are available.

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Great Play of Woodmere 1012 Railroad Ave., Woodmere 516-341-0050 greatplay.com/woodmere This play space allows kids 10 and younger the opportunity to use technology during play time with games such as limbo on the beach and jumping in snowy hills, along with classic sports including soccer, baseball, basketball, and hockey. The programs are tailored to every age group, from toddlers to preschoolers and school age children.

Le Play Café 2465 Merrick Road, Bellmore 516-308-7053; leplaycafe.com Ideal for kids ages 5 and younger, Le Play is an enclosed, supervised play space at which mom or dad can hang out and enjoy a cup of java. Children can play dress-up and try out a play on the stage, pretend to shop in the themed market, or enjoy the building areas.

Long Island Children’s Museum 11 Davis Ave., Garden City 516-224-5800; licm.org Admission to the museum includes the indoor play areas, Tot Spot, and Climb It.

Once Upon a Treetop 151 Dupont St., Plainview 516-349-1140; onceuponatreetop.com Let your imagination run wild at this pretend play space. Play areas such as a grocery store, a bakery, and a construction zone will captivate your kids. Along the back wall is a multi-tiered climbing structure for your little gymnast to explore.

Pump It Up 225 Community Drive, Suite 250, Great Neck 516-466-7867 135 Dupont St., Plainview 516-575-2300 pumpitupparty.com This bouncy center franchise offers Pop-in Playtimes as well as bounce-and-art camps and structured play classes.

Tots on Track 4871 Merrick Road, Massapequa 516-795-5726; totsontrack.net Kids can jump, climb, explore, and express themselves at this play space that caters to a younger crowd. The gym has an obstacle course and a large ball pit area.

Wood Kingdom 111 Milbar Blvd., Farmingdale 631-845-3804; woodkingdomwest.com Wood Kingdom is a huge indoor and outdoor yard-play and gardening store at which children can play on showroom samples. It also has rooms with inflatable bouncers and laser-tag areas. Open play is Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm.

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LongIslandParent 47

Demystifying the Dentist

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A guide to what to expect at kids’ dental visits and tips for keeping their mouths healthy By Jonathan Perry

I

t’s no secret that many children are scared of going to the dentist, a fear that is unfortunately often reinforced by dentists’ portrayal on TV shows and in pop culture—as well as by many grown-ups’s own reactions to the twice-yearly need for dental checkups.

For sure, visits to the dentist can be confusing, for kids and parents, coming as they do with an array of procedures and terminology, not to mention equipment and instruments that are all unique to the dentists’ and orthodontists’ offices. In that spirit, we spoke with several area pediatric dentists and orthodontists in an effort to demystify visits to their offices and explain what goes on there and why these procedures are so important.

“Children fear the unknown, and are often misinformed about the dentist,” says Marc Adelberg, D.D.S., who practices at Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dentistry, which has three locations on Long Island. “We understand that what we do impacts the child’s life forever, so we try to make things fun and inviting for them.”

Since February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, here’s a primer to what generally goes on when kids visit the dentist and orthodontist.

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Dental Procedures Explained

Routine dental exams are evaluations that gauge your child’s overall dental health. At the exam, the dentist (and/or hygienist) will clean your child’s teeth, review the technique for how she should be flossing and brushing, discuss oral hygiene generally, and apply topical fluoride treatment, which is a delivery of fluoride minerals to the teeth to help protect them from cavities. At some visits, the dentist will take X-rays.

Checkups can address potential problems in your child’s mouth early so she’ll need minimal treatment or interventions when she’s older. Children, like adults, should have routine dental exams every six months.

“Bad brushing habits and hygiene habits can all be taken into account,” Dr. Adelberg says. “Parents should get them to the dentist early so we can help treat and coach them at an early age.”

X-rays are screenings that take images of your child’s mouth on each side. They provide a close-up view of your child’s jaw and tooth structure, and can reveal weaknesses such as cavities and demineralization, which is the reduction of mineral substances in the teeth. X-rays provide a view of your child’s mouth that normal eyesight can’t provide, according to Rania

Elbaz, D.D.S., who practices at Merrick Pediatric Dentistry in Merrick. “Bite-wings, occlusal, and panoramic X-rays take images of the child’s mouth from front to back, including the molars,” Dr. Elbaz says, referring to three different types of X-rays. “These X-rays can evaluate a child’s bite and even identify jaw abnormalities.”

Your child’s teeth push closer together as they grow, making them more prone to cavities as more plaque accumulates between the teeth. When your child is 2 or 3 years old, dentists will take X-rays of his mouth to help track the teeth’s progression.

Sealants are thin, white plastic coatings that are placed at the tops of the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to help prevent tooth decay. The groves and chewing surfaces of the teeth can accumulate plaque, since they’re the most susceptible to cavities in children and teens. The protective coating offered by sealants is recommended for kids ages 6-8 for the first set of molars and ages 12-14 for the second set of molars.

Fillings are composites that are placed in the weakened mineral deposits of one’s teeth to help prevent cavities or fill the holes when cavities occur. Fillings can prevent the teeth from decaying further by blocking bacteria from entering the teeth. They can also be used to restore teeth for cosmetic purposes by giving them the appropriate shade of color that matches one’s teeth.

Extractions are used to either facilitate other procedures in a crowded mouth or to remove a tooth that is beyond saving.

Extractions can also be necessary to correct jaw spacing or provide the room necessary for braces. Every child’s mouth is different, says Glen Ehrenman, D.D.S., who practices at Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry in Westbury. “Kids are evaluated each time they come in with growth and development, but everyone grows and develops at their own pace.”

Pediatric dentists will evaluate your child’s mouth to see if she needs any extractions. If your child is anxious about the procedure, dentists can offer the option of sedating your child through the extraction.

Laser treatment is a method of handling delicate procedures in children as young as 2-3, such as cavities and lip ties, which happen when the upper lips of infants are tethered to the upper gums from birth. The laser can remove tooth decay without touching the tooth, and it also numbs the tooth as an added bonus for your child’s comfortability. Laser treatment is not a common treatment, and only select offices have this equipment.

Renuka Bijoor, D.D.S., who practices at Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry in Briarcliff Manor, says laser technology is her practice’s most utilized procedure tool. She explains that it can be used in multiple procedures in children without instilling any trauma like anesthesia shots. For example, dentists can use laser treatment in place of the conventional drill when treating cavities, eliminating the need for anesthesia shots and making your child’s experience the least invasive and painful as possible.

“The experience is shorter and much less dramatic,” Dr. Bijoor says. “It gives the patient a healthy experience and prevents the fear of the dentist from developing early on.”

Braces are used for aligning crooked teeth and to help position someone’s bite. Wires are attached along the teeth to align them slowly over time causing minimal discomfort. Pediatric dentists evaluate kids’ mouths to decide if braces may be required, while an orthodontist will make the decision and do the work of installing

braces. The wires on the braces are tightened to adjust teeth every four to six weeks, and children can wear them for two to three years on average.

Top Dental Health Tips

Of course, a strong dose of prevention can help your child avoid some of the more invasive and intense dental procedures (though, as with everything health-related, there is no way to guarantee it). Here is some advice for securing, recovering, and sustaining oral health.

Oral health begins as early as in infancy. Clean your child’s gums and mouth with a washcloth before teeth start coming in, Dr. Bijoor says. Once his teeth come in, you can use a finger brush or baby toothbrush with just water, no toothpaste required, and then maintain the routine of brushing every morning and night.

Your child should see a dentist regularly after her first tooth comes in. Dr. Bijoor recommends your child see the dentist when she turns 1 or six months after her first tooth comes in. She should then see the doctor every six months thereafter.

Understand your dentist’s emergency procedures early on. At an early age, your child’s teeth are vulnerable to trauma such as tooth chipping from tripping on the playground, Dr. Elbaz says. Most dentists reserve time in their daily schedules for such emergency occasions, allowing them to take action on her teeth immediately. Discuss with your dentist what to do when emergencies arise—before any actually happen.

Visit the proper pediatric dentist. Go to the dentist that best fits your child’s specific needs, Dr. Ehrenman says. Some examples of what your child may need include habit counseling for pacifier use or thumb sucking, special preventative care for teething and gum disease, or management of conditions such as ulcers and tongue-tie.

Maintain regular routines. Dr. Elbaz recommends your child follow the proper routine of having her teeth brushed every morning and night once they start coming in. Brushing and flossing should be as much a part of her expected daily set of activities as bathing, changing clothes or pajamas, and the like.

Eat a proper diet. Limit juice, snacks, and sugars, Dr. Ehrenman says. Frequent snacking can build up carbohydrates in the mouth, leading to acids that could promote tooth decay.

Snacks should be healthy and not too sticky or full of sugar.

Avoid caloric drinks after nighttime brushing. Consuming calories after brushing one’s teeth—which we do to eliminate the buildup of plaque on the teeth—defeats the point of brushing, Dr. Elbaz says. Items to avoid include soda, juices, and milk; water is okay.

Help your children with brushing until they learn to tie their own shoes. That’s when a child’s motor skills are advanced enough for him to be adept at brushing his own teeth properly.

Give your child fluoride supplementation. Children can be given fluoride vitamin supplements that’ll help strengthen their permanent teeth in the future, Dr. Ehrenman says.

Don’t give up. It is important for you not to stop performing a dental-health routine or technique because your child isn’t cooperating or making a fuss, Dr. Bijoor says. Eventually, children will get used to the routine. And, eventually, they may even thank you for helping to keep their mouths healthy.

Jonathan Perry is a former NYMP editorial intern.

LongIslandParent 49

Soup and a Sandwich

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Nothing goes better with soup than a sandwich. Here are three combos to warm up after a chilly day. By Hannah Miles Vegetable soup with Reuben sandwiches This is a true comfort food combination—a wholesome vegetable soup served with classic New York Reuben sandwiches. I have to confess that I utterly adore a Reuben sandwich—there is just something so comfortingly indulgent about tangy horseradish mayo, sauerkraut, and salt beef all warm with melting gooey cheese. It’s happiness on a plate!

This vegetable soup can be made with any vegetables you chose, so it is great for using up whatever is in your fridge. If you prefer a chunky vegetable soup, cut the vegetables into small pieces and simmer until soft but do not blend the soup. If you are short of time you can substitute store-bought mayonnaise for the Russian dressing and just stir through a little ketchup and horseradish.

Serves 4 For the soup 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 1 rib celery, trimmed and chopped 1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 leek 2 tablespoons butter 3 carrots (approximately 8 oz.), peeled and chopped 2 parsnips (approximately 12 oz.), peeled and chopped generous 3¼ cups chicken or vegetable stock

50

For the Russian dressing 2 egg yolks 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar generous ¾ cup mild olive oil 1 tablespoon horseradish 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup salt and pepper, to season For the Reuben sandwiches 8 slices rye bread 8-12 slices salt beef or pastrami 4 tablespoons prepared sauerkraut 8 slices Swiss cheese panini press

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Directions 1. Begin by preparing the Russian dressing. Place the egg yolks, mustard, and vinegar in a blender or food processor and blitz. Very slowly drizzle in the olive oil and whisk until the mayonnaise is thick. Carefully fold through the horseradish and ketchup and season with salt and pepper. Store in a jar in the refrigerator until needed.

2. For the soup, add the onion, celery, and garlic to a large saucepan with the olive oil and fry over a gentle heat until soft. Trim the ends of the leek, discard any damaged leaves, and finely slice. Rinse well to remove any dirt and then add to the pan with the butter. Cook gently for approximately 5 minutes until the leeks have sweated down and are soft. Add the chopped carrots and parsnips to the pan with the stock and simmer for approximately 15 minutes until the carrots and parsnips are soft. The actual cooking time will depend on the size of the vegetables. Once the vegetables are soft, carefully transfer to a blender or food processor and blitz until the soup is smooth. Return to the pan and keep warm until you are ready to serve.

3. For the sandwiches, lightly butter the outside of the rye bread, then turn over on a board and spread a layer of the Russian dressing over four of the slices. Top with the salt beef slices. Heat the sauerkraut to evaporate the liquid and then sprinkle a spoonful over the beef in each sandwich. Top with two slices of cheese and a further spoonful of dressing and then top each sandwich with the remaining buttered rye slices. Toast each sandwich in the sandwich press until warm and the cheese has melted.

4. Serve the soup with sandwiches on the side for a delicious lunch or supper.

Broccoli soup with blue cheese and pine nut croissants

Butternut squash soup with Thanksgiving pretzel sandwiches

Broccoli is one of the super vegetables that can really boost your immune system, so I love to make this soup when I am feeling under the weather. When blended it has a beautiful bright green color.

Broccoli goes really well with blue cheese (you can even add a little extra blue cheese to the soup if you want, although this will make it richer). This soup is perfect served with warm stuffed croissants filled with blue cheese and the crunch of toasted pine nuts.

I love to serve these as pretzel sandwiches, similar to those I have enjoyed on trips to Bavaria, but if you can’t find pretzels, thick-cut slices of white bread are equally delicious.

Serves 4 For the soup 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 1 clove garlic, peeled and finely sliced 1 head of broccoli (approximately 10½ oz. in weight)

1 quart chicken or vegetable stock salt and pepper, to season cream, to swirl (optional) For the sandwiches 4 plain croissants 7 oz. gorgonzola dolce or other soft blue cheese scant ½ cup pine nuts

Directions 1. Begin by preparing the soup. Heat the oil in a large saucepan and fry the onion until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and fry until lightly golden brown. Cut the broccoli into small florets and discard the large stem. Add the florets to the pan with the stock and simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is just soft but is still a vibrant green color. If you overcook it, it will start to lose its color. Blitz the soup to a smooth consistency in a blender or food processor. Return to the pan and season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 3. Cut each of the croissants in half horizontally and place a slice or two of the cheese into each. Toast the pine nuts in a dry frying pan or skillet over a gentle heat until they are lightly golden brown and then sprinkle on top of the cheese. Replace the top of each croissant and wrap in a foil parcel. Bake in the oven for approximately 5 minutes until the cheese starts to melt.

4. To serve, pour the soup into warm bowls, swirl with a little cream, and add freshly ground pepper to garnish. Serve with the warm croissants on the side.

Serves 4 For the soup 2 onions, peeled and finely chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 tablespoon nigella seeds 2 lb. butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and chopped into chunks ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

pinch of cayenne pepper generous 3¼ cups chicken or vegetable stock For the sandwiches a few spoonfuls of mayonnaise 4 large soft pretzels 4 large slices turkey 4 tablespoons cranberry sauce 4 slices Swiss cheese

Directions 1. Place the onions in a large saucepan with the oil and cook over a gentle heat until the onions are soft and translucent.

Add the garam masala, nigella seeds, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. If you do not like spicy soup, omit the cayenne pepper. Fry for a few minutes further to allow the spices to heat. Add the squash to the pan and cook for a few minutes, then add the stock and simmer for approximately 30 minutes until the squash is soft.

2. Pour the soup into the blender or food processor and blitz until smooth. Keep warm until you are ready to serve.

3. For the sandwiches, carefully slice each pretzel in half horizontally and spread each half with a little mayonnaise.

Place a slice of turkey on each base and top with some cranberry sauce. Add slices of Swiss cheese and cover each with the pretzel tops. Serve the turkey-filled pretzels with the soup.

Soup and a Sandwich by Hannah Miles, Ryland Peters & Small, $16.95. rylandpeters.com. Photography by Steve Painter.

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LongIslandParent 51

Learning to Ski ››

A peek at how two New York mountains teach newbies the popular winter sport By Katelin Walling

The author (in all black) and Franz Krickl, snowsports director at Windham Mountain Resort, ride a conveyer-belt type carpet lift to the top of one of Windham Mountain’s learning slopes. Hunter Mountain has a similar lift in its learning area.

G

rowing up in Maine, one would think I’d be a season lift ticket-holding ski bum, but that is not the case. I grew up cross-country skiing with Dad and snowshoeing with Mom and Dad, and I once took a snowboarding lesson with my older brother—because I had to do all of the cool things he was doing— but I ended up not wanting to pursue it. So when I got the opportunity to take private skiing lessons at Hunter Mountain (huntermtn. com) and Windham Mountain Resort (windhammountain.com), both in the Catskills region of New York, I jumped at the chance to see what many childhood friends were so obsessed with every winter.

Hunter Mountain

After the nearly 3-hour drive from Manhattan to Hunter, I acquired my lift ticket and lesson pass, headed over to the Rental Shop, and checked in on a computer, answering questions about my experience level, height, and weight—all needed to ensure I was given the proper skis. I was then fitted with boots, which should be snug but not uncomfortable to prevent blisters, and given skis, poles, and a helmet because as Mike, a rental attendant, said, “I like what I have between these,” pulling on his ears.

Once I had my gear, I headed out to the Learning Zone to meet Hans, my instructor for the 1-hour lesson. After asking what I knew about skiing (next to nothing!), Hans taught me the basics—how to turn, stop, speed up, and slow down. I practiced these skills on a low-grade slope for almost 20 minutes, and when he thought I was ready, Hans took me up a conveyer belt-type carpet lift to the top of Gramercy Park—a slightly higher-grade slope—where I continued to practice my new skills. After 20 or so minutes on Gramercy Park, I graduated to riding the lift to a slightly higher trail, Central Park North, where Hans had me focus on controlling my speed and making complete, round turns while skiing among others—nerve-wracking to say the least!

When my hour was up, Hans and I parted ways, but I stayed on the slopes for a while longer, practicing all the skills I had learned in the lesson.

Windham Mountain Resort

I stayed overnight at Hotel Vienna in Windham, and was up early 52

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

for day two. At Windham Mountain Resort, the check-in process is similar to Hunter’s—pick up lift ticket and lesson pass, answer questions on the computer, get equipment, and meet the instructor just outside the Rental Shop. I was lucky to have Franz Krickl, snowsports director at Windham, as my instructor for the 2-hour lesson.

I told Krickl what I learned the previous day and what I knew I needed to work on. We warmed up on Whisper Run, and then moved up to Wooly Bear, where I worked on controlling my speed and making turns. After nearly an hour on those two runs, we progressed to What’s Next?, which was higher up on the mountain and required using the lift. Throughout the lesson, Krickl would give helpful tips and point out what I should change to make skiing easier—mainly that to really control my speed, I needed to make my pizza wedge (toes pointed inward, heels out) bigger.

At the end of the lesson, during which I had fallen two or three times, I skied a few more runs on What’s Next? to end my day on a high note.

A New Winter Hobby

In addition to private and group lessons for adults, both Hunter and Windham offer a variety of learn-to-ski programs for the whole family, including full- and half-day lessons for kids; season-long programs; and special programs for the youngest skiers.

Windham is also home to the second largest adaptive ski program in the country, according to Krickl. When I was at Windham, the Adaptive Sports Foundation was hosting its Warriors in Motion Learn-to Ski and Snowboard Festival for veterans injured in Afghanistan and Iraq.

After seeing the variety of skiers on the mountains—from a preschooler learning with Mom and Dad to the seasoned skier—skiing, and learning to ski, is a great activity for the whole family, and one which the family can progress through together. I ended the weekend with some sore muscles, two lift tickets fastened to my coat, and a new winter hobby I hope to enjoy a few more times before the season ends.

To find more mountains in upstate New York that offer lessons for the whole family, visit nymetroparents.com/ski.

Meet the Health Care

PROFESSIONAL To be in this section, call 516-883-4543 or email nympads@davlermedia.com Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics 1000 F. Park Blvd., Massapequa Park 516-798-1111 62 Lake Ave. S., Suite A, Nesconset 631-360-PEDS (7337) 615 Montauk Highway, West Islip 631-661-PEDS (7337) ampediatricdental.com; adelbergped@optonline.net

We are Drs. Adelberg, Montalvan, Bennet, Pistilli, Postel, Schecter, and Abraham.

Our purpose is to provide outstanding dentistry in a child- and family-friendly environment. We treat your family like they are our own. All of our doctors are board-certified specialists and offer the most combined laser dentistry experience on Long Island. We want your visit to our office to be an extraordinary experience, that will make you say, “Wow!” Our three offices even look like a theme park. We hope to make your children love visiting the dentist.

Tiny Sparkles Pediatric Dentistry 164 Main St., Port Washington 516-888-9789 tinysparkles.com

Dr. Angie Chin welcomes everyone to her new office in Port Washington. The office is modern and child-friendly with themed treatment rooms, iPads and games in the waiting room, movies and cartoons available during treatment, and digital animal X-rays. Dr. Chin’s practice philosophy is centered on promoting preventive care and helping parents and children develop a healthy and happy dental home. With her light-hearted approach and welcoming demeanor, kids of all ages have grown to truly love going to the dentist!

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.

Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry 959 Brush Hollow Road, Suite #101, Westbury 516-333-3033 kidsteeth4li.com kidds@optonline.net

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

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

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

Dr. Muneer Imam and Dr. Michael Gruttadauria are heading up 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.

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.

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.

LongIslandParent 53

Professional services

Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals.

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS 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.

LEGAL SERVICES BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE, and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale.

LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C. 1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 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.

SPECIAL NEEDS BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133

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lawbakshi.com lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE, and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale.

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.

LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C. 1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 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.

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

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.

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 JEI LEARNING CENTERS (NASSAU) Herricks-Williston Park: 516-742-5534 Hicksville-Jericho: 917-815-0977 Merrick-Bellmore: 516-308-4705 jei.com JEI Learning Centers offer a variety of academic enrichment and tutoring programs for children in pre-K through ninth grade, including math, problem solving, English, reading, and writing.

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.

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT CLOWNS.COM Proudly Serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000; 718-971-5862 clowns.com We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals.

GAMETRUCK LONG ISLAND 917-327-8700 gametruck.com david.schwartz@gametruck.com Video Game Party, laser tag arena, inflatables, or bubble soccer—GameTruck’s unique mobile video gaming theaters and arenas can make your ultimate party wishes come true!

MAD SCIENCE OF LONG ISLAND Call for locations throughout Long Island: 855-264-1672 madscienceli.com info@madscienceli.com Mad Science hands-on, high-energy parties are performed by a trained Mad Scientist who brings all the necessary equipment to your home or location of your choice.

PARTY PLACES

@ PLAY AMUSEMENTS 229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com Have your next party at the newly renovated @ Play Amusements! It offers 30,000 square feet of fun including 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, roller coaster, a carousel, disco room, and laser tag!

BOUNCEU FARMINGDALE 101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com BounceU Farmingdale was voted “Best of Long Island” for Children’s Party Place and Family Amusement Center. We provide the ideal combination of

Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources.

inflatable structures, a clean environment, incredible customer service, and non-stop excitement in a private party atmosphere.

CELEBRATIONS IN THE KITCHEN 63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen.com celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com The most unique, fun-filled, joyous event! We have created a true baking experience for everyone to enjoy, including cookie baking and decorating, cupcakes “from scratch,” muffin and scone baking, and brownies. Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties.

COLD SPRING HARBOR FISH HATCHERY & AQUARIUM 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfha.org; steved@cshfha.org Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium! See the Hatchery & Aquarium’s exciting live exhibits. Feed the hungry trout and learn about fish, reptiles, and amphibians with an up-close animal encounter.

FABULOSITY AT THE TODDLEWOOD STUDIOS 818 Merrick Road, Baldwin 646-596-4227 toddlewoodparties.com parties@toddlewood.com Welcome to Toddlewood! This high-end fashion photo studio has a large hair and makeup station, nail station, arts and crafts, dancing, music, and the best professional photography session for your next top model birthday girl and her friends.

KEY TO MY ART INC. 10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 keytomyart.com At Key to My Art, we have a birthday party package to fit all budgets. The guest of honor picks the theme, and we provide the instruction so each guest leaves with a masterpiece!

THE LITTLE LADIES CLUB 246 W. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-939-CLUB (2582) thelittleladiesclub.com party@thelittleladiesclub.com The Little Ladies Club has been providing glamorous makeover parties for girls since 1998! Her Majesty will be sure to receive the royal treatment!

LONG ISLAND AQUARIUM & EXHIBITION CENTER 431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH20 (426) 631-208-9200 x186 longislandaquarium.com Have an Aquatic Birthday Party at the Long Island Aquarium! Take a private tour of the Aquarium, receive preferential treatment at our Submarine Simulator and Discovery Tower rides, and special seating at our Sea Lion Show!

M.A.T.S.S. KID’S GYM & EARLY CHILDCARE EDUCATION CENTER A RAINBOW OF PROGRAMS UNDER ONE ROOF! 2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore 516-221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-496-7765 matsskidsgym.com corporate@matsskidsgym.com M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym offers a rainbow of themes and activities that will make your child’s next birthday party the ultimate celebration of their special day!

SLOTS-A-LOT RACEWAY AND PARTY PLACE 1100 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square 516-616-7075 slotsalotraceway.com info@slotsalotraceway.com Partygoers race 6-inch scale model cars around three 150-foot, professionally built slot-car tracks, in a safe, clean, brightly lit, and colorful venue. All will enjoy “going fast, having fun.”

UNLIMITED SPORTS ACTION 30 Beechwood Ave., Port Washington 516-767-7675 unlimitedsportsaction.com info@unlimitedsportsaction.com Unlimited Sports Action offers sports birthdays for ages 2 and older. Our parties offer 1 hour of sports and activities on a climate-controlled turf field, followed by 30 minutes of food, drinks, and birthday cake in a private room.

WHAT’S COOKING? 30 E. Main St., Oyster Bay 516-922-COOK (2665) whatscookingny.com info@whatscookingny.com Martha Stewart, Newsday, and News 12 boast What’s Cooking? is a No. 1 Choice Birthday Party Place where children can explore their creativity in culinary arts.

Funtastic cookie, cupcake, Cupcake Wars, chocolate, or pizza party can be customized in our spacious party room making your party memorable!

LongIslandParent 55

OPEN HOUSES 2017 Camps ‘R’ Us Where Summer Vacation Is Our Job

Locations in Baldwin, Bellmore, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Syosset, Valley Stream, and West Islip 516-935-CAMP (2267) campsrus.org/openhouse info@campsrus.org Meet with our directors during an informative open house, including a campus tour and Q-and-A with you and your child. Learn more at campsrus.org/open-house.

Future Stars Summer Camps-Nassau

The College at Old Westbury, Old Westbury 516-876-3490 Farmingdale State College 2350 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale St. Joseph’s College 155 West Roe Blvd., Patchogue fscamps.com Stop by Future Stars Summer Camps Open House Weekend Feb. 4-5 to view the facilities, meet the staff, and take advantage of enrollment savings.

Kenwal Day Camp

100 Drexel Ave., Melville 631-694-3399 kenwaldaycamp.com Visit Kenwal and meet with our directors.

They will answer your questions, and take you and your campers around the beautiful, 20acre camp grounds. February-June: Sundays, 12-3pm.

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 Join us for an open house on Feb. 4, 10am-2pm.

Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp

516-238-4586 livoyagersdaycamp.com livoyagersdaycamp@gmail.com Beginning in March, Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp will be happy to meet with you, to tell you and your campers, ages 4-14, about our exciting programs. Call for details.

M.A.T.S.S. Kid’s Gym & Early Childcare Education Center A Rainbow Of Programs Under One Roof!

tullypark@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session on Feb. 2, March 7, April 6, May 9, and June 8, from 7:30-8:30pm in the Multi-Purpose Room and Concessions Room.

Oasis On the Sound

Mike Caramanico, camp director Port Washington Senior Center 80 Manorhaven Blvd., Manorhaven 718-596-4900 oasischildren.com onthesound@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session on Feb. 7 and 28, March 21, April 4 and 25, May 9 and 23, and June 6, from 5:30-6:30pm at the Senior Center by Manorhaven Beach Park.

Portledge Summer Adventures

2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore 516-221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-496-7765 matsskidsgym.com corporate@matsskidsgym.com M.A.T.S.S.-A Rainbow of Programs All Under One Roof! Call for a tour appointment.

Portledge School 355 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley 516-750-3104 portledge.org/summeradventures mworth@portledge.org Join us Saturday, Feb. 25 from 11am-1pm for an open house. Sample activities, meet teachers, and tour campus. For more information, contact mworth@portledge.org.

Oasis at Tully Park

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

Jason Miradoli, camp director Michael J. Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Ave., New Hyde Park 718-596-4900 oasischildren.com

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900; usdan.com Young artists flourish at Usdan. Be part of a Usdan visit and information session: Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, and May 7, from 11am-2pm.

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE

To advertise: 516-883-4543 or nympads@davlermedia.com

ART CLASSES

KI8D5 -S7 7

Established 1973 Ages 7 & Up

1

DRAWING PAINTING PROGRAM

ART CLASSES

FIND venues, entertainers, suppliers, Adult Classes Also available

RENÉE GALLERY 1966 Jackson Avenue Seaford / 516.785.7291 56

NEED to plan the perfect party?

February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

and other ideas to create the ideal party in our online Parent Resources Directory.

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

AD INDEX

NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY Metropolitan area!

BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES

EDUCATION

PLAY SPACES

@ Play Amusement........................................................ 23

Countryside Montessori School...................................... 47

@ Play Amusement........................................................ 23

Unlimited Sports Action.................................................. 37

East Woods Camp.......................................................... 37 Fusion Education Group - Woodbury............................. 23

CAMPS

JEI Learning Center - Nassau........................................ 21

Camp Clio....................................................................... 33

LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................ 27

Camps ‘R’ Us.................................................................. 31

Long Island High School for the Performing Arts............ 34

Countryside Montessori School...................................... 47

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

Destination Science........................................................ 39

Music Institute of Long Island......................................... 34

East Woods Camp.......................................................... 37

Portledge Summer Adventures....................................... 39

Future Stars - Old Westbury........................................... 31

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

LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................ 27 Long Island High School for the Performing Arts............ 34 Mathnasium .................................................................... 5

Once Upon a Child......................................................... 22

SPECIAL EVENTS Fusion Education Group - Woodbury............................. 23

SPECIAL NEEDS

Kenwal Day Camp.......................................................... 15 LI Voyagers Day Camp................................................... 33

RETAIL

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS @ Play Amusement........................................................ 23

Adelberg Montalvan - Massapequa Office............... 53, 60 C.I.I.T Center............................................................ 19, 53

Ski Butternut................................................................... 19

ChiroMom................................................................. 51, 53

Smithtown Performing Arts Center................................. 34

Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry........................ 3, 53

Oasis Children Services................................................. 11

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.................. 47, 53

Portledge Summer Adventures....................................... 39

HEALTH

Sportime......................................................................... 33

Adelberg Montalvan - Massapequa Office............... 53, 60

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

C.I.I.T Center............................................................ 19, 53

Young Peoples Day Camp - LI....................................... 25

ChiroMom................................................................. 51, 53

SPORTS

Ehrenman & Khan Pediatric Dentistry........................ 3, 53

Future Stars - Old Westbury........................................... 31

CLASSES

Fairy LiceMothers........................................................... 51

Hofstra University / Salzman Center.............................. 34

Fidelis Care New York...................................................... 2

LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................ 27

Merrick Pediatric Dentistry.......................................... 7, 53

Sportime......................................................................... 33

Steps To Socialization.................................................... 13

Steps To Socialization.................................................... 13

Tiny Sparkles Pediatric Dentistry................................ 9, 53

Unlimited Sports Action.................................................. 37 Village East Gifted.......................................................... 29

Tiny Sparkles Pediatric Dentistry................................ 9, 53

Kenwal Day Camp.......................................................... 15 Sportime......................................................................... 33 Unlimited Sports Action.................................................. 37

THEATER MUSIC

Smithtown Performing Arts Center................................. 34

Music Institute of Long Island......................................... 34 DEVELOPMENTAL TUTORS

C.I.I.T Center............................................................ 19, 53

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.................. 47, 53

Long Island High School for the Performing Arts............ 34

Hofstra University / Salzman Center.............................. 34

Steps To Socialization.................................................... 13

Smithtown Performing Arts Center................................. 34

JEI Learning Center - Nassau........................................ 21

LongIslandParent 57

VOICES

Pregnant Pause

››

Why I hated all nine months of pregnancy By Karen J. Bannan

I

am obsessed with all things related to pregnancy. I always have been. I read trashy-but-fun celebrity baby bump gossip. I quiz my friends about their impending childbirth. I get misty-eyed when I hear about a new baby or a new pregnancy. So you’d think, because I have babies on the brain, that I loved it when I was actually pregnant myself. You’d be wrong. I hated every one of those 40 weeks. With all my being.

From the moment I found out until the moment I delivered, I obsessed about not being pregnant. I was angry. I was depressed.

Actually, I was more than depressed. When I found out I was carrying Big Girl, who was a planned pregnancy, I literally went off the deep end. My life was over. I would be huge. I would lose my career. I would lose myself. I was so anxious, sad, and ambivalent about being pregnant that I ended up on a therapist’s couch for the final six months of my pregnancy.

Of course, I felt guilty for having these terrible feelings, so that only made me feel worse. And as soon as my baby was delivered? I fell in love with her, and with being a mom.

My midwife and my therapist were in agreement with their diagnosis. It—antepartum depression—is hormonal, and my experience was not that uncommon. Between 10 and 20 percent of women experience antepartum depression, but few talk about it. It’s often a precursor to postpartum depression, too.

I was lucky. I was pretty much cured once that little redhead came out of me. But I was thrown back into the chasm when I got pregnant again. At the time, Big Girl was only 18 months old.

I went home numb from the sonogram holding a grainy picture of the baby. Again, the symptoms set in. I found myself stomping and crying around the house, saying I was ruining Big Girl’s life by bringing another baby into the picture so soon. Then, at 13 weeks, I miscarried. The guilt was overwhelming then. I felt like I wished that baby away.

We tried for several years to get pregnant again, even though I

knew I was almost guaranteed to suffer the same symptoms. And we were blessed with my miracle baby—Little Girl—after we gave up trying. Yes, I went through the same horrific nightmare. This time it was even worse because I was told that I could literally die from carrying her. So I felt all the same emotional symptoms, but I also had another feeling: Intense guilt about putting myself at risk. I didn’t want to leave Big Girl without a mother. And then the moment I went into labor I could hardly wait to meet my new baby.

I look back at the delivery photos and can’t help but smile. I have never seen such pure love, exhilaration, and emotion on anyone’s face. It’s completely obvious how in love and excited I was to become a mom.

Becoming a mother—from the first moment you find out you’re pregnant to the first late night feeding—is supposed to be such a natural thing. We’re programmed by magazine covers and other women to think pregnancy is wonderful, and mothering is instinctive.

Women glow when they are pregnant, right? They dream about it like I did—and still do. They’re supposed to feel blessed when it happens.

And yet that is not the experience of many people. Even those who aren’t afflicted with antepartum depression may, for example, hate the third trimester with all its aches and pains. They might pine for the day when their bodies are their own again. And that’s okay. That may be the most natural thing for them.

It seems like such a sin to be depressed about such a miracle.

At least that is how I saw it. But it’s a fact of life. It’s okay to hate being pregnant, and still love the outcome. Are you feeling sad about being pregnant? Talk it over with your doctor. She can shed light on any misconceptions you might have about your pregnancy or delivery. If you’re clinically depressed, she can refer you to a therapist who specializes in prenatal care.

No matter what, though, don’t suffer silently. Broach the subject with other moms and moms-to-be. Chances are, they’ve felt the same way at one point during their pregnancy.

Karen J. Bannan is a Long Island writer who blogs at naturalaspossiblemom.com, where this first appeared.

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February 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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