Queens Parent February 2020 by City Guide NY

Queens

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

FEBRUARY 2020

CAMP COUNTDOWN • Month-by-month planning timeline • Camp comparison chart

YouTube & Kids

Safe streaming practices for families

Ask DadandBuried

Should I get my kid an iPhone?

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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Dr. Emanuel Mizrahi is a specialist in orthodontics and has been practicing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics exclusively for more than 25 years. His practice, Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates, has a proud reputation for serving both children and adult patients with compassionate care, while utilizing the very latest and best orthodontic tools and techniques to ensure beautiful clinical results.

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Dr. Mizrahi earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree (D.D.S.) from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He completed his specialty training in orthodontics at New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Mizrahi stays on the forefront of orthodontics by attending regular continuing education courses on advancements in dentistry and orthodontics. He is a Platinum Plus Invisalign® provider for adults and teens.

Call to make an appointments:

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110-35 Jewel Ave Forest Hills, NY 11375 | www.perfectsmilesarus.com QueensParent

inside

february 2020

Original photo by Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) Clothing courtesy Macy’s Backstage (macysbackstage.com)

14 YouTube & Kids Safe streaming practices for families

16 Dental Health by the Numbers What you need to know to keep kids’ smiles healthy

18 Camp Countdown A month-by-month timeline to plan for the summer

40 Keeping the Peace How to reduce conflict when your kids share a room

42 Discovering Diversity 8 books for kids in honor of Black History Month

COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 9 News: What’s happening in the community 12 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 13 Mommybites: Registry Secrets 46 Last Word: What do you really want for Valentine’s Day?

THINGS TO DO 25 Family Activities Calendar 38 Outing: Day Trip, Anyone?

RESOURCES 20 Camp Directory 22 Camp Chart 43 Party Central, Open Houses

44 Professional Services 45 Advertisers’ Index

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

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

Apply Now!

Open House Dates

Tues. • Feb. 4th • 9 AM Wed. • Feb. 19th • 1 PM Sat. • Feb. 22nd • 11 AM Mon. • Mar. 9th • 2 PM Thu. • Mar. 19th • 4 PM Sat. • Mar. 28th • 1 PM

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From: 8:00am to 4:00pm

editor’s note

Looking Ahead

re you dreaming of summer yet? We’re excited about the thought of the cold giving way to warmer days ahead, filled with beach days, family vacations, and summer camp. You may think it’s too early to consider your child’s summer plans when it isn’t even spring yet, but the experts disagree. In fact, the American Camp Association recommends attending camp fairs now if you’re in search of a new summer program for your child. Plus, a number of camps offer discounts for early registration! For other camp planning tips, turn to p. 18, and be sure to check out the camp comparison chart on p. 22 to help you choose the best camp for your child. Another thing we’re excited about? The redesign of NYMetroParents.com! We spend a lot of time thinking of ways to help you make the best decisions for your family, and we streamlined our site to make it even easier! Don’t worry: You’ll still find the same great articles, hundreds of things to do on any given day in our calendar, and the top resources in your community. Speaking of the Internet, did you know YouTube is the most-used online platform among tweens and teens? Regardless of how old your children are, you’ll want to check out “YouTube & Kids” on p. 14. It outlines how you can better keep your kids safe when they’re streaming videos, limit the inappropriate content they have access to, and improve their media literacy. And if you’re looking for things to do during the long Presidents Day weekend or midwinter recess, be sure to browse the family activities calendar on p. 25 and the roundup of area day trips on p. 38. Here’s to hoping Punxsutawney Phil doesn’t see his shadow!

Katelin Walling Editorial Director Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

FEBRUARY 2020 • Vol.25 • No.6

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling PRODUCTION EDITOR: Melissa Wickes FEATURES EDITOR: Shana Liebman ASSISTANT EDITOR: Jacqueline Neber CALENDARS CALENDAR COORDINATOR: Whitney C. Harris EVENT RESEARCHERS: Kristina Johnson, Shara Levine DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke

ADVERTISING SALES

Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson, Manager Lauren Alperin Meirowitz, Managing Director Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Lauren Anchin, Meredith Perl, Merrill Sugarman Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy, Gayle Sherman To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents To Submit News: nymetroparents.com/submitnews

STATEN ISLAND PARENT

EDITOR/PUBLISHER: Roselle Farina-Hecht 718-494-1932

MOMMYBITES

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Lauren Alperin Meirowitz 646-736-3609 EDITOR: Jennifer Rojas

OPERATIONS

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

DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATOR: Elvins Cruz, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro MARKETING SERVICES MANAGER: Erin Jordan TRAFFIC COORDINATOR: Victoria Cocivera

PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT: Silvia Balu

MARKETING

Meet This Month’s Cover Kid! Our cover star is 4-year-old Zachary from Queens—a finalist in our 2019 Cover Kids Contest! It’s a family tradition: His sister Emily was the winner of our 2014 cover contest! A huge thanks to Macy’s Backstage for Zachary’s outfit, and an even bigger shout out to Sarah Merians of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) for the great photo! Want to know when the 2020 cover contest opens? Sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/newsletter!

ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Anastasiya Borunova

FINANCE

CREDIT MANAGERS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

CEO: David L. Miller GENERAL MANAGER: Thomas K. Hanlon CFO: David Friedman 213 W. 35th St., Suite 12W, New York, NY 10001 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN • ROCKLAND PARENT, STATEN ISLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2019, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

Th ask a Mid-Win Soccer Ma

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YEAR-ROUND REGISTRATION

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Discover new friends and ways to PLAY at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open!

Summer Camp Year-Round Programming REGISTER NOW AT:

NTC.USTA.COM Flushing Meadows-Corona Park Flushing, NY 11368

When Registering Online Use Code- Queensfeb20 Registered by the NY State Education Dept. Registered by the NY State Education Dept. Registered by the NY State Education Dept. Established in 1969

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Dan Norman Photography

news

Tickets are on sale now for Trolls Live!, which will be at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden June 13-14.

A Troll-Tastic Time This hair-raising, interactive extravaganza will delight your little Trolls lover.

Warm up your singing voice: Trolls Live! is going on its first-ever live tour. What’s more, Vstar Entertainment Group and the Madison Square Garden Company recently announced our favorite Trolls are making a stop at the Hulu Theater at MSG! Poppy, Branch, Guy Diamond, Cloud Guy, Fuzzbert, and more Trolls friends will come to life on stage to save their beloved Hug Time. There will be singing, dancing, glitter, and plenty of hugs, along with special effects and plenty of surprises. Kids will love to sing-along to their favorite Trolls songs—and be enchanted by all-new songs! Trolls Live! will run June 13-14 with three performances each day, and tickets are currently on sale. Find out more details at nymetroparents.com/trolls-live.

QueensParent

Danielle Guenther Photography

news

A Day to Indulge Celebrate World Nutella Day on Feb. 5 by serving your kids toast topped with the chocolatey hazelnut spread for breakfast. Just don’t let them see you sneak it by the spoonful, or else you’ll always be running out of it!

“Hold on a Sec,” from Danielle Sapienza’s Best Case Scenario series, which depicts real, raw, crazy moments of parenthood

Celebrating the Chaos of Parenting Liquid Gold Want to know how maple syrup is made (we’re talking the 100-percent pure liquid gold)? Head out to Hoyt Farm in Commack, Suffolk County, to see demonstrations of Native American and Colonial techniques and taste maple syrup. Sundays, Feb. 23-March 8, 1:30-3pm. Find more maple sugaring events at nymetroparents.com/ maple-sugaring.

Judgement-Free Zone 64% of parents said they’d most like to see mom shaming go away in 2020, according to a survey by Boudreaux’s Butt Paste. Now that’s a trend we can get behind.

anielle Sapienza is a NYC-based lifestyle photographer (@danielleguentherphotos) and artist who celebrates the chaos of parenting. Her photos are original and often hilarious—family scenes we can find humor and delight in imagining. As the mother of a 10-year-old and a newborn, she’s inspired by the energy of those little people that run our daily lives with such power, enthusiasm, and emotion.

How would you describe your images?

What’s the best parenting advice you ever received?

I capture the raw, real, crazy moments we have as parents, when we feel as if our heads are spinning. The children love to be involved in the rebellious fun, and everyone gets to act the scene! I also adore photographing families and documenting them in their everyday setting, whether that’s indoor at home, or out on the street in the hustle of NYC. Our lives seem to pick up speed when we have children, and these little moments are soon forgotten. Photography is so special in the sense that we can always look back at these memories and we never forget.

“Just keep them alive. That’s all that matters.” It’s pretty true! As parents we have so much information floating around about every topic, it can make us INSANE! I try not to compare to other parents, and just go with what works. The hardest part of being a parent is trusting that you’re a good parent.

Amy Schumer for sure. She’s so real. Any parent that can be as honest, raw, and real as her...sign me up!!

Read more from Sapienza at nymetroparents.com/danielle.

Connect with us facebook.com/nymetroparents

Which famous parent would you like to have dinner with and why?

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

@nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

New Places, New Programs

A Cleaner Alternative to Dental Impressions

Charter School to Build Hi-Tech Library

Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates began using the Formlabs 3D Printer in December 2019 for digital impressions, offering a more comfortable, cleaner alternative to traditional Alginate impressions. The 3-D printer, in addition to the Itero Intraoral Scanner, makes digital impressions for orthodontic appliances, such as Invisalign, more efficient for patients. The practice offers services to all ages and recommends children begin visiting an orthodontist at 7 years old. 105-58 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills; 718-2636643; foresthillsorthodontics.com.

Our World Neighborhood Charter Schools in Howard Beach is slated to open a stateof-the-art library for the 20202021 school year. The library will be equipped with a full line of reading materials, a Smartboard, and a 1-to-1 laptop program, allowing all students to use laptops in class. The school serves kindergarten-fourth grades and aims to educate students to be independent thinkers and lifelong learners. 36-12 35th Ave., Howard Beach; 718-392-3405; owncs.org.

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Super Bowl Snacks While we don’t know who’s huddling up for Super Bowl LIV on Feb. 2, one thing’s for certain: You’ll need snacks. We’re serving up plenty of family-friendly, healthy—and even a few vegan—options over at nymetroparents.com/ football-snacks. We’re talking spinach garlic dip, sriracha chorizo deviled eggs, barbecue chickpea sliders, and more. And, hey, if you’re just watching for the commercials, the half-time show (Hello, JLo and Shakira!), and food, more power to you!

Game Day Fun for Kids

State-of-the-Art Auditorium Enhances Performances The school theme at The Rosa Parks Magnet School for Leadership Development (P.S. 254Q) revolves heavily around the arts. So, to best showcase students’ talents in dance, visual arts, theater, and more, the school upgraded its auditorium in October 2019. The auditorium now has a wide screen, HD projector, upgraded speaker system, and Bluetooth capabilities. These upgrades will enhance the experience for both the students who are performing and the audience. 84-40 101st St., Richmond Hill; 718-520-7878; ps254q27.com.

Keep the kids having fun with these craft, game, and dessert ideas! Warmup: Make paper pompoms to cheer on your team by cutting various colored tissue paper into small strips and having kids tape them to the ends of paper towel or toilet paper rolls. Regulation play: Look for objects during the game starting with letters of the alphabet. To make it challenging, designate a section of the alphabet to each quarter. Half-time entertainment: Make Super Bowl sundaes! Set up a station where kids can create their own sweet treat with toppings, sprinkles, sauces, and ice cream. Visit nymetroparents.com/ football-party for more ideas. QueensParent 11

advice

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ALL STAR STUDIOS 108-21 72nd Ave (4th floor) Forest Hills, NY 11375 718-268-2280 allstarstudiosnyc@gmail.com allstarstudiosnyc.com

Come Try Our NEW Improv Dance Class!

Ask DadandBuried My son is 11 and says everyone in his class has an iPhone. I wasn’t planning on getting him one for several more years, but it sounds like he’s feeling left out and possibly bullied for not having one. Should I just buy him an iPhone or continue to resist? —Julianna B., Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn

he struggle is real. I have a 9-year-old, and while not everyone in his class has an iPhone, some kids already do. We’re holding fast to our “no smartphone yet” policy, but it gets trickier every year. When he turns 12 or 13, we’ll be hard-pressed to deny him. Kudos to you for getting this far! At that age, there are some good reasons to consider giving in, although I’m not sure bullying is a great one. Peer pressure is rarely a good reason to do something, and we certainly don’t want to let the bullies win! That said, smartphones are a necessary evil, and as your kid gets older, the positives—for him and you—will eventually outweigh your reservations. I’m dying to have a way to communicate with my son when he’s on the bus, or to remind him to turn in a permission slip. I also need him to have his own Spotify account; I don’t want our future robotic overlords to think I worship Imagine Dragons! The fact is, smartphones are going to be a part of our kids’ lives for the foreseeable future. They see friends with them, and no doubt see their parents using them, which makes withholding one increasingly difficult. (If someone tried to take away my smartphone, it would get ugly fast. Just ask my wife!) The good news is there are services that can help monitor his activity and restrict certain apps and websites. If you wish, you can basically turn the phone into—gasp!—an actual phone. (For an example, check out Gizmo.) That way you can get the benefits of easier communication with your son and he can still feel like one of the “cool kids.” I would start signaling your capitulation but tie it into some kind of reward-based scheme. Make him earn the thing. And then get him his own Spotify account. Our advice column features the wise, humorous commentary of Mike Julianelle (aka @DadandBuried), a 40-something influencer with a popular podcast who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two kids.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DADANDBURIED? Send it to editor@nymetroparents.com with the subject “DadandBuried’s Advice.” 12

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

mommybites

Registry Secrets

Veteran moms share what to keep in mind when creating your wish-list, so you don’t get overwhelmed. By Christina Vercelletto

reating a successful baby registry can drive you a little crazy. You need the hindsight of a veteran mom to know what you really need—but you’re a rookie! To make the process a little easier, we spoke to moms who have learned the hard way about how to get the job done right. There is no ultimate authority on what you will need. While your best friend, who has a 1-year-old, might swear by the latest and greatest bottle warmer, “essential” is a highly subjective concept when it comes to baby gear. For example, fancy diaper pails and front carriers or slings are hated as much as they are loved. Better to tap the wisdom of all your new mom friends, then compare their lists to look for commonalities. Cast a wide net. Instead of registering at one store, set up a Pinterest board with images that link back to the respective shops. You can pin anything, including cleaning and spa services, meal deliveries, and handmade goodies on Etsy. Consider throwing in things like newmom yoga pants, wall art for baby’s room, or a new laundry basket. Ask that your shower invite include the link to your board. Divide and conquer. Creating a registry is an exhausting process—a solid 4 hours is not uncommon. Consider splitting the job into two sessions, with one devoted to the two items that most demand a clear head: the stroller and car seat. Include different price ranges. Those who aren’t invited to your shower—say a co-worker or your parents’ neighbor—will need under-$15 ideas, so check out board books, baby hats, bath toys, and those fun stickers (1-month, 2-month, etc.) that go on a baby’s shirt for photos throughout the first year. Entice friends and family to buy the functional items. Most shower guests don’t want to give a nasal aspirator or a vaporizer, which, while necessary, don’t make the gift-giver feel warm and

fuzzy. Take advantage of the “add a note” option that many registries let you attach to individual items and say something like: “I’d feel so much better if I had this on hand, knowing I could do everything possible to comfort my little one when he gets sick.” Some items in the store aren’t online, and vice versa. If you’re in a brick-and-mortar and can’t find an item, check the website for it and add it online. Don’t bother registering for outfits and blankets. If there is a particular swaddle or coming-home outfit you have your eye on, go for it. But beyond that, rest assured that you will receive plenty of teeny clothes and impossibly soft, pastel blankets—both before and after baby arrives. Think ahead. After this windfall, you’re on your own paying for all the accoutrements this kid will need. There’s no shame in adding a snowsuit or swimsuit sized a year (or two!) ahead, a toddler bed, or even a big kid booster car seat to your list. The scanning gun is addictive. To avoid registering for stuff that will lure gift-givers away from what you really need and/or want, make a list before you go, and stick to it. If you’re tempted to make an exception, sleep on it. You can always add it later online. You will be able to shop after the baby comes. Despite the horror stories you’ve heard about life as a new mom, you will leave the house. So please, don’t obsess over whether or not you’ve ticked off every single little thing you might possibly need. Registering for gift cards (or diapers, for that matter) is not tacky. It’s smart and will probably be a relief to a handful of your nearest and dearest. And you can use gift cards to acquire those necessary items that nobody will buy, no matter how gamely you talk them up in the “notes” section. Nursing pads, anyone?

Mommybites’ nanny boards only feature postings from nannies’ current families. You can rely on their recommendations. If you need a nanny or babysitter, visit Mommybites.com. QueensParent 13

& Kids This corner of the Internet can be a scary place, but there are ways to protect your kids. By Jacqueline Neber

t’s one of the biggest challenges facing parents today: How do you keep your kids safe online while still letting them explore? And YouTube is ground zero for this issue. In the last few years, we’ve heard about YouTube’s scandals—including Logan Paul filming a man who hanged himself in Japan or the debilitating work-lives of YouTube employees in the Philippines. At the top of the most-dangerous list is the inappropriate content readily available for, or even strategically aimed at, kids. Even though there is plenty of G-rated entertainment on YouTube, it’s no mystery why many parents are concerned about what their kids are viewing.

YouTube Kids allows parents to create profiles for their children, based on each child’s age, in an effort to limit inappropriate content.

Tackling the Tube There is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with this issue, says Jill Murphy, vice president and editor-in-chief of Common Sense Media. One of YouTube’s biggest problems is the inability to control a child’s search results. “Searching YouTube is essentially like searching Google,” Murphy says. “The results are not only looking to offer you accurate information on what you’re looking for, but also suggest some unrelated, but often tempting, things to watch. With so much content and so many options, it can be hard for any age to stay focused.” One helpful option for families is YouTube Kids—launched in 2015—which allows parents to create profiles for their children who are preschool-age through 12 years old. Each type of kids account is designed to offer certain content: creative, playful, and exploratory videos for ages 4 and younger; songs, cartoons, crafts, and more for ages 5-7; and gaming, science, music, and more for ages 8-12. YouTube admits it cannot filter out all inappropriate content or manually review all videos, but parents can turn off the search function or only allow their kids to see videos that Mom and Dad approve. Despite these filters, Murphy says, there is still no guarantee your child will be 100-percent protected from questionable content because YouTube doesn’t delineate age guidelines for content consumption. For example, related videos that appear on your child’s screen are based on what he gravitates toward, and there are no safety precautions for those. Younger kids tend to love room tours, vlogs, and “unboxing” videos—in which YouTubers 14

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

show off the products they receive from brands—but there is no way to guarantee these are age-appropriate. The best way to strive for safety, Murphy says, is to discuss content-viewing guidelines with your kids. Many parents overhear their child watching something they don’t like, run over, and demand it all be shut down, she says. A better approach is to encourage open conversation. “Sit down, watch a few videos with your kid, and have conversations about what is or isn’t appropriate. Start media literacy at a young age,” she says. “Include [your kid] in your boundary- and rule-setting because, otherwise, it’s quite enticing for a kid to [watch] what they’re not supposed to watch.” Another tip is to watch the videos by content creators who your kids like, and who might be posting things your child shouldn’t see, Murphy adds. Understand why your kid wants to watch these videos and continue having conversations about them. (It’s also worth noting that creator videos are basically infomercials, so you might want to discourage this consumerism.) Keep in mind that some content creators post for shock value, which can have serious consequences for your kids. Ariella Toeman, a mom of three in Westchester County, watches YouTube together with her 8- and 10-year-olds. The kids are not allowed to freely browse, but her 12-year-old has a computer at school and a phone is his hand and can access the Internet anytime, Toeman says.

“Don’t tell me for a minute that YouTube doesn’t love kid content and will do everything it can to keep lots of it going, all while pushing the limits of child safety,” he says. Murphy agrees that YouTube doesn’t make it easy for parents to set parameters—so you need to get creative in figuring it out. She encourages parents to look to the parental controls on their kids’ devices before turning to third party systems. Plus, kids will always try figure out passwords and get around locks, Murphy points out. There are even TikTok channels dedicated to showing kids how to do so. For some kids, Murphy concedes, third-party parental controls might be necessary. For example, if your child has trouble distinguishing inappropriate content or if you suspect he might be the victim of cyberbullying, there is no shame in using third party parental controls or checking his search history. Set these boundaries if you need to, she continues, but try not to use them as a substitute for real conversations with your kids.

“

Sit down, watch a few videos with your kid, and have conversations about what is or isn’t appropriate. Start media literacy at a young age.

“We talk a lot about watching things that are appropriate. Once you see things, you can’t take them back out of your memory. You can’t take back those visuals—they stay with you forever,” she says. “So, we say, if things feel a little bit awkward, we don’t watch them. If things make us feel bad, we don’t watch them. If they feel weird, if we don’t really understand them, they’re not for us.”

Third Party Controls “I swear no one at Google has kids—but [YouTube] is the primary source of truth for kids,” says Doug Crawford, director of curriculum at Protect Young Eyes, an advocacy and education organization based in Michigan. (YouTube is a subsidiary of Google.) While YouTube offers a restricted mode (turned on in the user’s profile) for parents to control what kids see, “YouTube’s controls are configured differently on different devices, making it difficult for parents to always get it right, and then it’s hard to lock things in without some third-party parental control solution like CleanBrowsing, Mobicip, or Covenant Eyes,” he explains. While YouTube can be a great source of learning material, Crawford says parents need to keep in mind that its search function is inherently unsafe for kids—even if they’re watching kid-friendly content. Watching YouTube on restricted mode is the only method he recommends for kids.

”

YouTube Isn’t the Enemy—Necessarily Adults use Google to find what they need to know, while kids turn to YouTube, Crawford explains. The site is so pervasive that 82,248 videos are watched every second as of Jan. 15 (this stat is updated daily), according to internetlivestats.com. Protect Young Eyes’ surveys of high school students reveal that when given the option to choose their No. 1 online activity, teens choose YouTube over social media and gaming at a 3-to-1 ratio. Among tweens and teens, YouTube is the most-used online platform—not Instagram or Snapchat, as parents might believe. Murphy points out that because many parents didn’t have this technology growing up, they might be reluctant to let it into their kids’ lives. And parents’ lack of familiarity prevents them from understanding how important YouTube is as a social lifeline for kids. Despite all of this, YouTube doesn’t have to be an enemy. “All of their friends are talking about [YouTube]. Kids have devices at school. They’re going to watch it at school… so eliminating it without taking the time to talk about why something bothers you or hearing from your kid about why it’s appealing to them is not necessarily a path Common Sense [Media] would recommend,” Murphy says. “Teach your kids to live with it, rather than shutting it off.” Toeman, like many parents, acknowledges the struggle: “I’m trying to raise my children in an open-minded, realistic way that accepts technology as part of our lives, but doesn’t love it—which is a hard balance.” QueensParent 15

national children’s dental health month

Dental Health

by the

is the amount you—um, we mean the Tooth Fairy—leaves on average in our area, according to Visa’s Tooth Fairy Calculator (a free app in the iTunes app store), which tells you what other children in similar family situations are getting under their pillows.

Numbers

40%

of children ages 3-6 use too much toothpaste, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The age at which it’s recommended that kids stop sucking their thumbs to avoid future oral health issues that will require orthodontics, according to Larissa Davids, D.D.S., orthodontist and owner of Rego Park Orthodontics in Queens

The age at which a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste should first be used by a child, according to Marita Smith, D.D.S., a pediatric dentist at Smith’s Little Smiles in Pomona. For children younger than 3, a rice-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste should be used.

is how often the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush—or more frequently if bristles are visibly matted or frayed.

is the number of times teeth should be brushed each day, according to the CDC. Before any teeth come in, wipe your baby’s gums with a soft clean cloth after the morning feeding and right before bed to wipe away bacteria—and get your child used to the habit, says Renuka Bijoor, D.D.S., who practices at Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry in Briarcliff Manor. Once teeth start to come in, brush with a soft, small-bristled toothbrush.

44%

3 months

of U.S. children will have at least one cavity by kindergarten, according to Children’s Dental Health Project (cdhp.org).

6 months

is how long you or your child should go between dental visits, says Marc Adelberg, D.D.S., who practices at Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dentistry, which has four locations on Long Island.

The age at which your child should have her first dental exam

2 minutes

is the length of time teeth should be brushed for. You can either get a fun timer for your child, or look for an electric toothbrush, like Quip Kids (getquip.com), which has a timer built in.

( Looking for a pediatric dentist for your kids? Visit nymetroparents.com/health. ) 16

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AT THE COMMONPOINT QUEENS SAM FIELD CENTER AGES 2-5 YEARS OLD PRE-K FOR ALL, NURSERY SCHOOL, AND CHILDCARE

DROPOFF AS EARLY AS 7:30 AM, LATE PICK UP UNTIL 6 PM! FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TOUR, CONTACT 718-225-6750 EXT. 246 OR TCAMPO@COMMONPOINTQUEENS.ORG EARLY BIRD PRICING AVAILABLE UNTIL MARCH 30 Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center 58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck, NY 11362

Septemb er 2020 Registra ti Now Ope on n!

www.commonpointqueens.org/program/early-childhood-programs/

QueensParent 17

summer camp

Camp Countdown! A month-by-month timeline to get your child (and you!) ready for summer camp By Jess Michaels

t’s not too early to think about summer camp! If you are considering day or sleepaway camp, there are ways to research and plan for camp throughout the year. The American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey suggests the following month-by-month timeline with ways to plan for your child’s summer camp experience.

October and November Attend open houses. Many camps have open houses and fall festivals that provide opportunities to see the camp facilities and get a feel for the camp. It is also a good opportunity for you to get to know the camp director and ask questions about the camp philosophy and program while in the camp setting. Search for camp with your child. Take some time to look over a camp’s website, brochure, and video together. They will give you and your child a sense of what a particular camp is like. Most camp websites have photo slide shows, videos, virtual tours, and maps, which will give you a glimpse of the camp and the camp program. The more involved your child feels in the decision of choosing a camp, the more successful the camp experience will be. Look for camp early for savings. If you’ve already decided on a camp for your child, don’t wait to register. Many camps offer early-bird discounts. Registering early can be a real savings for parents—and it ensures your child won’t be shut out of the camp program he wants. Ask

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

the camp if it offers payment plans, which can make it easier to pay for camp. Some camps also allow you to prepay the camp season and will give you a significant discount.

Still enrolling for all programs!

December and January

queens.schoolofrock.com 929-999-ROCK

Talk to camp directors. Speaking with the camp director and asking some key questions is a good way to find out about a camp’s philosophy and see if it matches your own. Get to know the camp director through phone calls, correspondence, and in person. Make sure to give the director an accurate picture of your child and what your specific goals are for her camp experience. Make camp part of holidays. Instead of purchasing another toy for your child, make camp a holiday gift. Prepare your child for overnights. If you are considering sleepaway camp, schedule sleepovers with friends and relatives and make sure these overnights are successful. If your child feels panicked and needs to come home in the middle of the night, he may not be ready for sleepaway camp.

February and March Schedule home visits and attend camp fairs. These are both good ways to get to know a camp director and a camp program. Ask about the camp’s mission statement and what type of child is successful at camp. Camp fairs bring dozens of camps to a community and provide parents the opportunity to speak 1-on-1 with many different directors in one day. Often times, a camp director will come to you for a home visit, which allows you to get to know the director and for the director to get to know your family.

April and May Share positive messages. As camp approaches, talk to your child about the camp program and the activities she will be participating in. Let your child know you are confident in her ability to have a successful camp experience.

June

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

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

Pack together. If your child is going to overnight camp, pack together. Your child will feel more secure if he knows what he is bringing to camp. Use this time talk with your child about how much fun camp is going to be. Mail a letter to camp. Send a letter to sleepaway camp, so your child has a letter the first day she is at camp. Let her know how much fun she is going to have at camp.

• Early drop-off and Extended day available. Register Now for Summer Camp

July and August Camp season is here!

Jess Michaels is the director of communications for the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. She believes every child should have a summer camp experience.

354 Lakeville Road Great Neck, NY 516-466-8422 Visit our website: www.CMSGN.com QueensParent 19

CAMP DIRECTORY Day Camps Adventureland Child Care Center

32-04 31st Ave., Astoria 718-777-2011 adventureland.astoria@daycaremail.com 41-31 58th St., Woodside 718-274-4769 58stdaycare@daycaremail.com adventurelandchildcarecenter.com Adventureland Child Care offers exceptional care to families-since 1992! We offer full- and part-time programs for infants and toddlers, 2-year-olds, preschool, Pre-K for All, and after-school. We inspire learning through discovery of learning centers including: blocks, dramatic play, art, library, and writing. Call about our summer program.

CK Kids Summer Camps

68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 718-366-7454 ctkny.org ckkids@ctkny.org Don’t miss the summer fun at CK with eight exciting summer camps to offer children of all ages. Camps appeal to all interests, including soccer, basketball, dance, drama, media arts, cooking, arts, water slides, and ninja. On-site math and ELA programs available. Come for a week or the whole summer!

Countryside Montessori School

354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 cmsgn.com info@cmsgn.com Countryside Montessori school runs summer camp during July and August for children ages 18 months-6 years. Camp has weekly themes. Toddlers have play-based mornings, and Primary (ages 3 years and older) spend time doing academics and on the playground. Camp is a great way to acclimate your child to school.

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp

183-02 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-380-4145 hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org The camp where everybody knows your name offers programs for preschool through teen CIT program. The age-appropriate programs include Red Cross swim instruction, arts and crafts, outdoor play and exercise, sports, tennis, field trips, Jewish culture program, organized games and activities, and weekly cookout.

Kon Gen International Preschool 196-25 42nd Ave., Bayside 718-281-2338 Kon Wah Day School

135-27 38th Ave., 2nd floor, Flushing 718-353-4388 kongeninternationalpreschool.com We provide a nurturing environment that celebrates the uniqueness of each child. We offer creative dance, music, and art appreciation. Our educational program is based on monthly unit studies and a project-based curriculum. We offer a roof-top playground, indoor play space, and a dance room!

Magic Day Camp

216-15 Peck Ave., Bayside 718-634-8109 magicdaycamp.com Magic Day Camp, “Where Every Day Is Magical,” offers children ages 4-15 adventures and activities that stimulate and motivate minds and physical ability. We swim every day in an Olympic country club pool. With exciting weekly trips, our rates include door-to-door transportation, healthy lunches, professional tennis, dance, and instructional sports programs.

Mill Basin Day Camp

5945 Strickland Ave., Brooklyn 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Mill Basin Day Camp is dedicated to providing exciting and fulfilling camp experiences with fun, recreational, and safe activities for children entering pre-K through ninth grade. Attend an open house and please bring the whole family for a personal tour of the facility and discussion of the camp program.

Sam’s Camp and Swim Club at Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center

58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-225-6750 x246 commonpointqueens.org/program/nursery-camp Welcome to Sam’s Camp and Swim Club at Commonpoint Queens, Sam Field Center. A first camp experience for ages 2-5. Weekly themed program is highlighted with enrichment experiences provided by professionals in nature and entertainment. Instructional swim program is certified by a water safety instructor. Snacks included, lunch for specific programs.

SUPERKICKERS Summer Camp

Various locations throughout Queens 718-350-1535 superkickers.com info@superkickers.com Super Kickers Day Camp offers a variety of activities for every age. Our STEAM-Robotics-Coding classes are a hit for ages 9-12. Other activities include: cartooning, soccer, Lego workshop, Zumba, acrobatics-obstacle course, cooking, Portuguese music, water slide, piano, and jewelry making! Camp runs for eight weeks, June 29 to Aug. 20.

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp

P.S. 376 210-21 48th Ave., Bayside P.S. 219 144-39 Gravett Road, Flushing 718-684-1187 uecamps.com Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp located in the Bayside area makes it an enjoyable, educational, fun-filled summer where the child can grow into a well-rounded individual. All children will participate in theater, dance, art, robotics, engineering, swim, sports, cooking, and academic enrichment. Register now at uecamps.com or call 718-684-1187.

World of Discovery Day Camp

718-229-3037 worldofdiscovery.org info@worldofdiscovery.org World of Discovery Day Camp creates an environment where kids can just be kids. Since 1977, children ages 4-15 have enjoyed baseball, volleyball, basketball, gymnastics, dance and drama, carnivals, scavenger hunts, swimming, Olympic week, and trips. Counselors meet stringent standards and all directors and assistant directors are New York state-certified.

Specialty Camps All Star Studios

108-21 72nd Ave. (4th floor), Forest Hills 718-268-2280 allstarstudiosnyc.com; allstarstudios@gmail.com Sign up now for summer and fall classes-limited space available. All Star Studios program is designed to encourage and educate students on how to increase flexibility, improve coordination, focus on muscle strengthening, build poise, and have fun. All instructors have experience in both teaching and performing.

Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Flushing Register now at: ntc.usta.com The Billie Jean National Tennis Center offers year-round programs: daytime, after-school, and weekend, as well as fun-filled summer day camps with multi-sport activities for all ages and levels. Campers work on tennis techniques, tactics, multi-sport conditioning, and strategy. Enrollment available at ntc.usta.com.

Further Music School

110-06 72nd Ave., Forest Hills 718-544-8886 140-75 Ash Ave., Suite 2B, Flushing 917-563-1480 furthermusic.com info@furthermusic.com 2017 National Music School of the Year. Since 2007, Further Music School has grown to be one of the most popular and recognized music schools in Queens. Reach-

ing more than 3000 students, our award-winning facility provides music lessons for all instruments and singing. Explore your summer music classes with us!

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Director Dr. Lynne Manouvrier LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 liu.edu/giftedyouth vera.savino@liu.edu The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the recognition of society’s special responsibilities for children with demonstrably superior intellectual ability. The LIU Center for Gifted Youth offers extraordinary teachers recruited from leading schools in the metropolitan area, and university-level facilities.

Music Together® With Music and Me Licensed Provider of Music Together® Since 2003 Astoria, Bayside, Forest Hills, and Glendale

718-229-0033 Astoria at Gym-Azing! Bayside at Shotokai Karate, USA upper level of the Baybridge Commons Shopping Center Forest Hills at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills Forest Hills at the Church-In-The-Gardens Glendale at Tiger Schulmann’s Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com

info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com Music Together, is the internationally beloved early childhood music and movement program for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups who love to participate! Join our weekly 45-minute joyful classes. Sing, dance, play, and learn where music learning supports all learning. Schedule your free class today for our summer or fall session!

Nina’s Tutoring Center

8702 Grand Ave., Elmhurst 718-205-7508 92-22 Corona Ave., Elmhurst 718-606-1056 tutornina@hotmail.com We tutor kids in kindergarten-12th. For the past 11 years, we have provided quality education that helps kids excel. We help improve skills in math, ELA, science, and social studies. We have an intensive preparation program for ELA, math, science, citywide and statewide exams, SAT and ACT. Call about available summer programs.

School of Rock Queens 2020 Summer Program 34-43 Francis Lewis Blvd., lower level, Suite 2, Bayside 929-999-7625, Karen Flyer, general manager queens.schoolofrock.com kflyer@schoolofrock.com

School of Rock is the ultimate performance-based music school. We focus on keys, vocals, guitar, bass, and drums. We offer five-day camps (9am-2pm) weekly from June 29-Aug. 10. Camps are available for Rookies (ages 5-7) and for older students (ages 7-18), both beginner and more advanced players.

Tinker Lab at Lewis Latimer House Museum

3441 137th St., Flushing 718-961-8585 lewislatimerhouse.org/tinkerlab education@lewislatimerhouse.org Tinker Lab participants will explore design, hands-on making, circuitry, and programming using micro-controllers. Projects include biologically-inspired robots, electronic instruments, and video game design incorporating science and arts. Activities are held at African American electrical pioneer Lewis H. Latimer’s science lab. Register for summer camps at lewislatimerhouse.org/tinkerlab.

The Windsor School

37-02 Main St., Flushing 718-359-8300 thewindsorschool.com admin@thewindsorschool.com Students attend our summer school to earn course and Regents credit for acceleration, or to preview a course which will be taken during the upcoming school year. Our schedule allows students to take up to two full year Regents courses. SAT/ACT prep classes are also offered.

summer camp

LI Camp Fair Coming to Hofstra Sunday, March 8

he Long Island Camp Fair & Activity Expo, hosted by Long Island Parent and NYMetroParents, will help you find the perfect camp for your child by bringing together dozens of directors from area camps and summer activities, including day camps, sleepaway camps, STEAM camps, and sports programs. While you meet with directors, learn about each camp’s philosophy, and browse the activities and programs offered, your kids can participate in a variety of fun activities, such as arts and crafts, music, STEM projects, sports activities, dance, and a bounce house. Talk about a win-win!

Your kids can have fun trying out what local activities have to offer while you meet area camp directors at the Long Island Camp Fair & Activity Expo!

Long Island Camp Fair & Activity Expo will be hosted on Sunday, March 8 from 11am-2:30pm at Hofstra University’s David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex, 245 Hofstra University, Hempstead. For more information, and to get your FREE ticket, visit licampfair.com.

QueensParent 21

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

Music

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

Swimming

Sports

Theater

STEAM/Robotics

Half Day Option

Extended Hours

PROGRAMS:

Flexible Scheduling

Adventureland Child Care Center Astoria and Woodside

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Chart

SERVICES:

adventurelandchildcarecenter.com

All Star Studios Forest Hills allstarstudiosnyc.com

Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Flushing ntc.usa.com CK Kids Middle Village ctkny.org

Countryside Montessori School cmsgn.com

Further Music School Forest Hills and Flushing furthermusic.com Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp Flushing hjcdaycamp.org

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum intrepidmuseum.org/education/ camp_intrepid

Kon Gen International Preschool Flushing and Bayside kongeninternationalpreschool.com

Lewis Latimer House Museum Flushing lewislatimerhouse.org/tinkerlab

Magic Day Camp Bayside magicdaycamp.com

Mill Basin Day Camp Mill Basin millbasindaycamp.com

Music Together with Music and Me Astoria, Bayside, Forest Hills, Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com

Ninaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tutoring Center Elmhurst

YMCA Summer Camps locations across Queens ymca.org/camp

Long Long Island Island Speech Speech & & Myofunctional Myofunctional Therapy Therapy

718-640-6767 • 516-216-1791 www.LIspeech.com

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

Music

l l

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

Swimming

Sports

l l

Theater

STEAM/Robotics

PROGRAMS: Half Day Option

Extended Hours

Flexible Scheduling

Lunch

Sam’s Camp and Swim Club Little Neck commonpointqueens.org/ program/nursery-camp School of Rock Queens Bayside queens.schoolofrock.com Superkickers Sports Jackson Heights superkickers.com The Windsor School Flushing thewindsorschool.com Ultimate Enrichment Bayside and Flushing uecamps.com World of Discovery Day Camp Bay Terrace worldofdiscovery.org

Transportation

Camp Chart

SERVICES:

l l

HILLCREST JEWISH CENTER DAY CAMP “The Camp Where Everybody Knows Your Name”

Early Bird Special: Register before April 1st to receive last year’s prices Open House every Sunday from 9-11a.m. Program for Children 4-14 Years Old LARGE INDOOR POOL!

Licensed Speech Pathologists & Myofunctional Therapists Specializing in the Treatment and Correction of:

Language Disorders • Memory & Auditory Processing Difficulties • Fluency • • Voice Disorders • Motor Planning Disorders • Deviate Swallowing • Tongue Thrust • • Feeding & Swalling Problems /Aversions • Thumb Sucking • Articulation Disorders • Oral Facial Muscle Weakness •

Specialized Therapy Approaches Including: PROMPT Therapy • Individual FEEDING Therapy Augmentative Communication Evaluations & Therapy

rtial Full & Pa grams ro P n so Sea le b a il va A

“FEES”...Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing Participating with most Major Health Insurance Companies

Online Registration; Go to hjcdaycamp.org to register NOW! Jericho

Long Island Speech & Myofunctional Therapy 500 North Broadway, Suite 141 Jericho, NY 11752

516-597-4344

Lake Success

Speech Pathology and Swallowing Disorder Services of Long Island 444 Lakeville Road Lake Success, NY 11042

516-216-1791 • 718-640-6767

Wantagh

Speech Pathology & Swallowing Disorder Services of Nassau 3375 Park Avenue., Suite 4010 Wantagh, NY 11793

516-221-3653

Like us on

@hjcdaycamp

183-02 Union Tpke., Flushing 11366 • hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org • Call 718-380-4145 QueensParent 23

SAM'S CAMP AND SWIM CLUB HOURS

9am-12pm 9am-2pm OR 9am-4pm

EARLY DROPOFF 7:30-9am

LATE PICKUP 4-6pm

CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A TOUR! EARLY BIRD PRICING AVAILABLE UNTIL MARCH 30 Tricia Campo, Early Childhood Director | 718-225-6750 x 246 | tcampo@commonpointqueens.org www.commonpointqueens.org/program/nursery-camp/

TINKER LAB S.T.E.M. SUMMER CAMP at the

LEWIS LATIMER HOUSE MUSEUM

July 13-24th Weekly Half-Day Camp 9am-12pm Monday to Friday

EXPLORE & LEARN

ROBOTICS CODING CIRCUITRY HANDS ON MAKING ARTISTIC DESIGN

lewislatimerhouse.org/tinkerlab/ 718-961-8585 24

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Specialized Sports Program Specialized Sports Program • Gymnastics • Karate • Swimming • Music Specialized Sports Program • Gymnastics • Karate • Swimming • Music • Private Outdoor Pool • Small Groups • Trips • Gymnastics Karate Swimming • Music •• Private Pool •• •Free Small Groups • Trips Dance •Outdoor Arts &•Crafts Transportation • Private Outdoor Pool • Small Groups • Trips • Dance • Arts & Crafts • Free Transportation • Dance • Arts & Crafts • Free Transportation

Established in 1978 • Ages 4-15 Established in 1978 • Ages 4-15 Reasonable Tuition Established in 1978 • Ages 4-15 Reasonable Tuition Certified Teachers • 2-8Tuition Week Program Reasonable Certified Week Program Program CertifiedTeachers Teachers •• 2-8 2-8 Week

Bayside • 718-229-3037 Visit us at: www.worldofdiscovery.org Bayside •• 718-229-3037 Bayside 718-229-3037

Visit Visitus usat: at: www.worldofdiscovery.org www.worldofdiscovery.org

R A D N E L CA

Y R A U R B FE

2 WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

qpcal@davlermedia.com

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for details on Turn the page Fest on River Eagle Teatown Huds

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 26 Editor’s Hot Tickets 27 Events Worth Leaving the City For 28 Holiday Fun 29 Special Needs 30 Theater, Concerts, & Movies

32 Educational Activities 34 Nature Lovers 35 Get Active! 36 Little Makers

EDITOR’S

T O H TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the February 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! Winter Jam FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am-3pm WHERE: Rumsey Playfield at Central Park, enter at E. 72nd Street, Central Park, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Partners at Gore Mountain will blow a mini mountain of snow in the heart of Manhattan, creating an urban wonderland for all to enjoy! Families will experience live ice carving, snowshoeing, curling, ice bowling, flag football, puppet making, photo ops, and a heated New York Public Library Reading Room. WHY WE LOVE IT: Enter the drawing for a chance to get free “learn to ski” lessons! WANT TO GO? 212-360-8213. nycgovparks.org.

22nd Annual BAMkids Film Festival WHEN: Feb. 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: BAM Rose Cinemas, 30 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene, Brooklyn AGES: 3-12 WHAT: The festival includes 87 short film programs, hands-on interactive activities, special BAMcafé performances, and more. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will enjoy face painters, balloon artists, interactive juggler-stilt walkers, and an expert clown! WANT TO GO? $15; $10 children 13 and younger, seniors 65 and older, and members. 718-636-4100. bam.org.

Big Apple Circus WHEN: Through Feb. 2: see website for showtimes s AGES: All WHAT: Catch the 42nd season of this world-renowned circus, celebrating the heartbeat, everyday delights, and spirit of New York City with astounding talent from around the world, led by Brooklyn-born singer and ringmaster Storm Marrero. WHY WE LOVE IT: All your classic circus delights in a climatecontrolled Big Top tent with tiered seating, perfect for families with young children. WANT TO GO? $35 and up; free for children younger than 3 (on lap). 212-721-6500. bigapplecircus.com.

‘Princess Particular’ 26

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Princess Particular can only think about her latest scheme to become a ballerina. Her Mom and Dad, King Loads-a-dough and Queen Patience, want her to focus on her princessly duties. Luckily, her maids, Chancellor, and Lady-inWaiting are on hand to help make her dream come true. WHY WE LOVE IT: Children will perk up for pliés, pastries, and “toe food!” WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children younger than 17 (family 4-pack for $40). 718-392-0722. secrettheatre.com.

HOT TICKET

Stargazing with Shereen FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 13, 6-7pm WHERE: Lost Battalion Hall Recreation Center, 93-29 Queens Blvd., Rego Park AGES: 6-13 WHAT: The Study the Stars program connects youth with the natural environment and encourages healthy living through actively exploring the field of astronomy in their local parks and recreation centers. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will have fun while learning during stargazing activities! WANT TO GO? 718-263-1163. nycgovparks.org.

Native American Arts Social FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 12pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy an afternoon of artwork, drumming and singing, dancing in traditional regalia, conversations, sharing of stories, social dances, and community building over refreshments. WHY WE LOVE IT: Native artists will also be sharing and selling their beautiful artwork. WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Celebrate the Year of the Rat FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 11am WHERE: Queens Library, Flushing Branch, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Lunar New Year together with Chinese music, dance, and arts, and Korean food. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can learn traditional Chinese papercutting with Master Lu and make a cute eggshell rat with Sharlene. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.

Escape the Room! FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Howard Beach Branch, 92-06 156 Ave., Howard Beach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Players are challenged to solve a series of mental puzzles and riddles within a certain amount of time. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s an immersive and interactive experience perfect for teens! WANT TO GO? 718-641-7086. queenslibrary.org.

Tea Party with Yoga & Guided Meditation WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 5-8 WHAT: You are invited to a tea party with yoga and meditation! Afterward, cozy up with some warm tea and snacks. Registration required. WHY WE LOVE IT: During our party children will learn a little about tea and meet a fluffy rabbit! WANT TO GO? $22. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Mardi Gras Mask Making Workshop FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 25, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Ozone Park Branch, 92-24 Rockaway Blvd., Ozone Park AGES: All WHAT: In honor of Mardi Gras, make masks of your favorite comic, anime, video game, and TV characters. WHY WE LOVE IT: Have a character request? Let the librarian know before the event and he’ll find a template! WANT TO GO? 718-845-3127. queenslibrary.org.

Worth Leaving

THE CITY FOR

WANT TO GO? $12; $10 seniors and children younger than 12. 631-689-5888. stonybrookvillage.com.

Red Firecrackers: The Legend of the First Chinese New Year! FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 2:30pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington, Nassau County, Long Island AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Through dazzling props, colorful costumes, mesmerizing music, fantastic acrobatics and lively dance, Nai-Ni Dance Company showcases the legend and origins of the Chinese Lunar New Year traditions and celebration. WANT TO GO? 516-767-1384. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Teatown Hudson River Eaglefest WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 9am-4pm WHERE: Croton Point Park, 1 Croton Point Ave., Croton-on-Hudson, Westchester County AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the return of the bald eagle with live bird-ofprey shows, educators with viewing scopes observing wild eagles, children’s activities, food trucks, and more than 25 environmental organizations—all in heated tents! WANT TO GO? $25; $22 in advance; $15 children 6-11; $13 children 6-11 in advance. 914-762-2912. teatown.org.

Dinosaur World Live! WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 1pm and 4pm WHERE: Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Meet a host of impressive creatures, including the tyrannosaurus rex, a triceratops, giraffatitan, microraptor and a segnosaurus! Optional special meet and greet after the show offers brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. WANT TO GO? $15-$39. 201-227-1030. bergenpac.org.

The Royal Hannenford Circus WHEN: Feb. 15-17, Saturday-Sunday, 10am, 2pm and 6pm; Monday, 10am and 2pm WHERE: Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains, Westchester County AGES: All WHAT: See a live traditional three-ring circus. WANT TO GO? $27-35. 914-995-4050. countycenter.biz.

Chinese New Year WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 1:30-4:30pm WHERE: Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Educational and Cultural Center, 97 Main St., Stony Brook, Suffolk County, Long Island AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the new year with festivities including an authentic Shaolin kung fu lion dance & kung fu demonstration, Manhattan taiko-taiko drumming, Long Island Chinese dance group Chinese dancing and singing, and craft activity for the kids! QueensParent 27

AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Learn about President Obama and make an Obama bookmark. WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332. queenslibrary.org.

Spread the Love Party WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 5-8pm WHERE: Queens Dance Project, 214-26 41st Ave., Bayside AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Drop off your children for a Valentine’s Day party! WANT TO GO? $30; $25 for members. 718-229-1133. queensdanceproject.com.

Valentine’s Day Pop Up Cards for Kids FREE

Holiday Fun Lunar New Year Chinese Temple Bazaar WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am-1pm or 2-4pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3 and older WHAT: For centuries, people in China have celebrated the Lunar New Year in temple fairs. Enjoy live performances, hands-on activities, and food to celebrate the Year of the Mouse! WANT TO GO? $5; $3 members; free for teens. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Valentine Crafts at the Castle WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 12-2pm WHERE: Bayside Historical Society, 208 Totten Ave., Bayside AGES: 4-12 WHAT: An afternoon of Valentine crafts, activities, and snacks WANT TO GO? $5 per child. 718-352-1548. baysidehistorical.org

WHEN: Monday, Feb. 10, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Queensboro Hill Branch, 60-05 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Children will make pop up cards for Valentine’s Day. WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332. queenslibrary.org.

Valentine Craft FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make a craft and show some love! WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. queenslibrary.org.

Children’s Valentine’s Day Craft FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, St. Albans Branch, 191-05 Linden Blvd., St. Albans AGES: All WHAT: Make a lovely gift for the people in your life that you love. WANT TO GO? 718-528-8196. queenslibrary.org.

Nail Art & Henna Valentine’s Designs FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 2-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Flushing Branch, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Year of the Rat with crafts such as bead-making. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, South Ozone Park Branch, 128-16 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park AGES: All WHAT: Get your fingernails and hands painted with Valentine’s Day designs. WANT TO GO? 718-529-1660. queenslibrary.org.

Lunar New Year Celebration FREE

Valentine’s Day Crafts FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 12-3pm WHERE: Commonpoint Queens, 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate with an afternoon of dance and musical performances, crafts, and activities for the whole family! WANT TO GO? commonpointqueens.org.

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 13, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodside Branch, 54-22 Skillman Ave., Woodside AGES: All WHAT: Join us as we celebrate Valentine’s Day. WANT TO GO? 718-429-4700. queenslibrary.org.

Go Far, Go Together: Who Is Barack Obama For Kids FREE

Valentine’s Day Craft FREE

WHEN: Monday, Feb. 3, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Queensboro Hill Branch, 60-05 Main St., Flushing

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 13, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Broadway Branch, 40-20 Broadway, Long Island City AGES: 5-12

Children’s Lunar New Year Celebration FREE

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHAT: Make Valentine’s Day cards for friends, teachers, and family! WANT TO GO? 718-721-2462. queenslibrary.org.

Special Needs

Valentine’s Day Card Making FREE

Our Autism Lifestyle: A Parent Support Network FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 13, 6-7pm WHERE: Laurelton Library, 134-26 225th St., Laurelton AGES: All WHAT: Create a handmade Valentine’s Day card for someone special WANT TO GO? 718-528-2822. queenslibrary.org.

Valentine’s Day Crafts for Children FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 14, 3:30-4:15pm WHERE: Queens Library, Auburndale Branch, 25-55 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Make a beautiful Valentine craft WANT TO GO? 718-352-2027. queenslibrary.org.

Heart Sand Art Pendant Necklace FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 14, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Langston Hughes Branch, 100-01 Northern Blvd., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Create a heart-shaped sand art pendant necklace WANT TO GO? 718-651-1100. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 1-3pm WHERE: Queens Library - Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: Adult WHAT: Parents, caregivers, and friends who have loved ones with autism are invited to come together, share information, and provide support. Adults only please. Moderated by Cheryl Ocampo, M.S., BIS (behavior intervention specialist). Preregistration required. WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. https://facebook.com/pg/ ourautismlifestyle/about/.

Circle of Friends FREE WHEN: Through June 19: Fridays, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Astoria Branch, 14-01 Astoria Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 6-13 WHAT: This program is for children with autism spectrum disorder. The goal of this program is to help children to learn social skills through simple science experiments, art projects, and board games. A therapist or caregiver must be present. WANT TO GO? 718-278-2220. queenslibrary.org.

Valentine’s Day Fun FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 14, 3-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Hunters Point Branch, 47-40 Center Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Celebrate the day with a fun activity in the Children’s Room. WANT TO GO? 718-990-4150. queenslibrary.org.

Lunar New Year Exhibition WHEN: Through Feb. 16: Saturday-Sunday, 12-5pm; MondayFriday by appointment WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: A Good Beginning, Here, a cross-cultural exhibition that illuminates eight diaspora artists who can trace their roots back in China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. WANT TO GO? $5 suggestion donation; free for students and teens. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Presidential Trivia! FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 5-12 WHAT: How well do you know your U.S. Presidents? WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

For Youth: Wednesdays 3:30-4:30pm $150 for ten one-hour consecutive sessions For Adults: Wednesdays 4:30 -5:30pm $200 for ten one-hour consecutive sessions

Children’s Winter Recess Programs (For Ages 7-12) Wednesday February 19th: 11:00am-12 Noon “All Together” with Ventriloquist Jonathan Geffner

Friday, February 21st 11:00AM- 12PM “Freedom Quilt” Craft Project Discover stories that quilts told in the days of the Underground Railroad to assist runaway slaves on their journey to freedom. Design a quilt that tells your very own personal story.

After Programs on Both Days

Noon- 12:30PM - Visit the Native American Exhibit A hands-on experience & photos in the Old Village jail cells.

12:30PM- 1:30PM - Lunch

Participants will bring their own lunches. Juice & cookies will be provided during an old-time cartoon special.

FEE: $6.00 per day or $10.00 for both days. Pre-registration is suggested since space is limited.

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Affordable High-Quality Guitar Lessons

@nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

At the Poppenhusen Institute 114-04 14th Rd College Point Contact us at 718-358-0067 or poppenhusen@yahoo.com Funded with Public Funds from NYC Dept. of Cultural Affairs.

QueensParent 29

Family Movie: ‘The Angry Birds Movie’ FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 6, 4:30-6:15pm WHERE: Queens Library: Briarwood Branch, 85-12 Main St., Briarwood AGES: All WHAT: Three loose-cannon birds fight back against a group of pigs, who have invaded their island. WANT TO GO? 718-658-1680. queenslibrary.org.

Guitar Mash Urban Campfire

Theater, Concerts, & Movies ‘The Meeting’: Saturday Family Matinee WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 2-3pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: An engaging play that depicts a fictional account of a secret meeting between Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-658-7400. jcal.org.

Queens Symphony Orchestra Family Concert Series: ‘Gershwin Got Rhythm’ FREE WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 3pm WHERE: Kupferberg Center for the Arts, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: An engaging and informative afternoon of free classical music with Queens’ own resident professional orchestra. WANT TO GO? 718-793-8080. kupferbergcenter.org.

Monthly Jazz Jam: Celebrating the Legacy of Louis Armstrong WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 7pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Open to jazz students, musicians, and music educators, Monthly Jazz Jams are a fun way to hone your skills and jam with your peers. Don’t play? Come listen! WANT TO GO? $10; free for students and participating musicians. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Movie Night FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 6, 4-6pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: All WHAT: Watch Toy Story 4 (2019, G). WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. queenslibrary.org.

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 7, 8pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This event will feature renowned guitarists and singer-songwriters sharing songs and stories that shaped them. Audience members are invited to bring guitars or other acoustic string instruments. WANT TO GO? $10; $8 members and students with ID; free for teens with ID and RSVP. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

New York Philharmonic Orchestra for Very Young People WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 2-3pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join Philippe the Penguin and musicians from the New York Philharmonic to discover different families of instruments through games, storytelling, and hands-on music-making. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-658-7400. jcal.org.

Peking Opera FREE WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 2-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Flushing Branch, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: The Qi Shufang Peking Opera Company will perform. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.

Teen Black History Movie: ‘Selma’ FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 13, 4-6:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Peninsula, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Celebrate Black History Month with a screening of Selma. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

Family Movie: ‘Abominable’ FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2-4pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family and enjoy a screening of Abominable. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

Family Movie: ‘Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil’ FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 20, 3:30-5:30pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a screening of Maleficent: Mistress of Evil. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

Mid-Winter Break Family Movies FREE WHEN: Feb. 18-20, Tuesday-Thursday, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, St. Albans Branch, 191-05 Linden Blvd., St. Albans AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy some family movies including Abominable, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, and The Addams Family. WANT TO GO? 718-528-8196. queenslibrary.org.

NYC's Premiere Indoor Fun Center featuring a gigantic arcade, laser tag, virtual reality, bouncers, 3D Simulator, bowling and much more!!! Laser Arcade Parties STARTING AT ONLY $379

Family Movie: ‘Toy Story 4’ FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 20, 3-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Windsor Park Branch, 79-50 Bell Blvd., Bayside AGES: All WHAT: During mid-winter recess why not join us for a movie the whole family can enjoy: Toy Story 4! WANT TO GO? 718-468-8300. queenslibrary.org.

Family Movie: ‘Abominable’ FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 21, 2-3:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, Baisley Park Branch, 117-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 6-12 WHAT: After discovering a Yeti on the roof of her apartment building, teenage Yi and her two friends embark on an epic quest to reunite the magical creature with his family. (2019, PG) WANT TO GO? 718-529-1590. queenslibrary.org.

Music and Play Hour FREE WHEN: Through Feb. 26: Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Queens Library, Hillcrest, 187-05 Union Turnpike, Flushing AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children enjoy songs, make music with baby instruments, and join for free play afterwards. WANT TO GO? 718-454-2786.

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Family Film Friday FREE WHEN: Fridays, Feb. 14 and 28, 2:30-4pm WHERE: North Hills Library, 57-04 Marathon Parkway, Little Neck AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy The Addams Family (2019, PG) and then Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019, PG). WANT TO GO? 718-225-3550. queenslibrary.org.

Cinema Saturdays FREE WHEN: Feb. 1-29, Saturdays, 2:30-4:30pm WHERE: Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71st Ave., Forest Hills AGES: All WHAT: Kids and their caregivers can sit back and enjoy a great feature film in the comfort of Forest Hills’ Story Hour Room. WANT TO GO? 718-268-7934. queenslibrary.org.

‘Guess What’: The Family-Friendly Stand Up Comedy Show WHEN: Through March 21: third Saturday of each month, 12:30pm WHERE: The Creek & The Cave, 10-93 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: The show is hosted by an 11-year-old and her dad. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-706-8783. creeklic.com.

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Forest Hills Location

Flushing Location

110-06 72nd Ave, Forest Hills Tel:718-544-8886

140-75 Ash Ave, Suite2B, Flushing Tel:917-563-1480 QueensParent 31

Brick Builders FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 7, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Court Square Branch, 25-01 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: 4 and older WHAT: Children are welcome to build from their imagination or from a challenge card. Your creations will be displayed all month long in the children’s room! WANT TO GO? 718-937-2790. queenslibrary.org.

Solar Race Cars for Teens FREE

Educational Activities

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 7, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Hunters Point Branch, 47-40 Center Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Teens will design, build, and test their own mini solar race cars. WANT TO GO? 718-990-4150. queenslibrary.org.

STEM: Density or ‘Fireworks In A Jar’ FREE

WHEN: Monday, Feb. 3, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Peninsula, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as we make booklets about his legacy and the need for equality. Space is limited. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 11, 3-3:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 5-12 WHAT: What makes a liquid “dense?” Why do some things float and some things sink? Children observe this phenomenon with the use of food coloring and liquid to create their own “fireworks in a jar!” WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

American Girl Fan Club: Addy Walker FREE

Go Griot with April Armstrong FREE

Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 4, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Howard Beach Branch, 92-06 156th Ave., Howard Beach AGES: 8-12 WHAT: The library will provide copies of Meet Addy: an American Girl by Connie Porter. The fan club will read the book and discuss it. We will also do crafts and activities. WANT TO GO? 718-641-7086. queenslibrary.org.

African Dancing and Folktales FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 6, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Arverne, 312 Beach 54th St., Arverne AGES: 6-12 WHAT: Audience members become the storytellers in a series of African folktales as a facilitator guides them through an interactive African dance class accompanied by live percussion music. WANT TO GO? 718-634-4784. queenslibrary.org.

Black History Music Trivia For Families FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 6, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Rochdale Village Branch, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the influences of African-Americans on musical genres such as R&B, jazz, rap, and more. After enjoying some sample tunes play a “Name That Genre” musical trivia game. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org. 32

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Baisley Park Branch, 117-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: This program will immerse children in the tradition of West Africa. WANT TO GO? 718-529-1590. queenslibrary.org.

Go Far, Go Together: From George Washington Carver to Oprah Winfrey FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Fresh Meadows Branch, 193-20 Horace Harding Expressway, Fresh Meadows AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Test your trivia knowledge and learn about the incredible achievements of some of the most inspiring members of the African-American community past and present. WANT TO GO? 718-454-7272. queenslibrary.org.

Think Tank: Water in the Winter WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Experiment with different water filtration systems and find out which one works the best. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $23. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

It’s Electric! Magnets Program

Black History Month Current Heroes Series for Kids

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 2:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Historical Society, 14335 37th Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Learn how magnets work while making a fun interactive art sculpture. Presented by Con Edison. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-939-0647.

WHEN: Feb. 3-24, see website for times WHERE: Queens Library, Queensboro Hill Branch, 60-05 Main St., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Learn about modern trailblazers who are still alive. Then make beautiful bookmarks using plastic gems and ribbons. WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332. queenslibrary.org.

Mid-Winter Break Family Programs: George Washington Carver Workshop WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Learn how plants played a very important role in his early life and later achievements. Students will use plants to paint and creating a healing lotion to take home. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $10 per child. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Go Far, Go Together: African American Inventors FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Flushing Branch, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: 8-12 WHAT: In this special STEAM activity, we are inspired by the work of African-American inventors. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.

Annual Langston Hughes Celebration FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 11am WHERE: Queens Library, Langston Hughes Branch, 100-01 Northern Blvd., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Black History Month at the library with film screenings, poetry, and an opera performance. WANT TO GO? 718-651-1100. queenslibrary.org.

YoYo Mania! with Urban Stages FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: All WHAT: Watch yo-yo master Will wow with his circus expertise! Try your hand at some fun tricks. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

First Lego League Robotics Workshop FREE

Junior STEAM FREE WHEN: Feb. 4-25, Tuesdays, 2:45-3:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Peninsula, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 4-6 WHAT: Children can take part in a math, science, and craft activity. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

STEM: Chemical Reactions or ‘Fizzy Balloons’ FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 25, 3-3:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 6-11 WHAT: Blow up balloons in a unique and fun way and observe a chemical reaction! WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

Black Stars in Space FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Kew Gardens Hills Library, 72-33 Vleigh Place, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Learn about black astronauts and make a shooting star. WANT TO GO? 718-261-6654.

College Readiness Workshop: College Lists & Scholarships FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 29, 10:30am-2pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Familiarize yourself with the application process. RSVP required. WANT TO GO? 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Trivia FREE

WHEN: Through Feb. 20: Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Kew Gardens Hills Library, 72-33 Vleigh Place, Flushing AGES: 12-14 WHAT: Children work as a team to design, re-design, and create a robot that can meet every challenge. WANT TO GO? 718-261-6654. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Through June 23: Tuesdays, 5-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Ridgewood Branch, 20-12 Madison St., Ridgewood AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Kids and teens are invited to join trivia in the auditorium. WANT TO GO? 718-821-4770. queenslibrary.org.

Drag Queen Story Hour FREE

Chess with Mr. Fariad FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 20, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodside Branch, 54-22 Skillman Ave., Woodside AGES: All WHAT: The program features a drag queen reading picture books, singing songs, and leading children in a craft activity. WANT TO GO? 718-429-4700. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Through June 27: Saturdays, 1:30-3:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Rosedale Branch, 144-20 243rd St., Rosedale AGES: All WHAT: All chess lovers are welcome to this program: advanced players, intermediate, and beginners. WANT TO GO? 718-528-8490. queenslibrary.org. QueensParent 33

Winter Bird Walk for Beginners FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 10am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Walk around Oakland Lake accompanied by Nancy Tognan of the Queens County Bird Club to look for ducks, coots, grebes, swans, geese, and more. Learn to use binoculars and a field guide. WANT TO GO? 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Mid-Winter Break Family Programs: Fantastic Flowers

Nature Lovers

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Dissect flowers and learn about the function of each part before creating a floral-inspired suncatcher, to bring color into the home for the winter! Registration required. WANT TO GO? $10 per child. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Living Lab: Soil Science

Herb Planting Workshop FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Use microscopes to get a closer look and perhaps even find living things in soil. Each session will include experiments with the help of live animals or plants. WANT TO GO? $21. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Sunday Science Discovery Lab: Suds & Slime WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 11am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Play with bubbles, make bubble wands, and dig your hands into some foamy slime! Registration required. WANT TO GO? $18. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Owl Prowl Night Hike

WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 3-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Sunnyside Branch, 43-06 Greenpoint Ave., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Learn about different herbs and their uses; then bring home your own starter herb plant. WANT TO GO? 718-784-3033. queenslibrary.org.

Mid-Winter Break Family Programs: I Heart Worms WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 20, 10-11:30am and 1-2:30pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This hands-on workshop introduces kids to the life of red wiggler worms used for indoor composting. Set up your very own indoor compost bin during the workshop. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $10 per child. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 7, 7:30-9:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn how to identify owls by sight and sound, and how to attract these beneficial birds to your own backyard. Then head out for a very quiet guided night walk. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Mid-Winter Break Family Programs: Bugging Out!

Animal Tales: I Love Animals!

APEC Adventure Time: Loveable Lizards

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 10-11:15am WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Show APEC’s animals some love by making tasty critter treats. Create a nature craft, meet some of APEC’s animals, and enjoy a nature walk. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $20. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 23, 2-3:15pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 0-2 WHAT: Leopard geckos and bearded lizards are interesting reptiles that many children love. Touch and feel their scales and watch them eat a crunchy, crawling snack! Registration required. WANT TO GO? $20. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 21, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore the world of bugs by examining the parts of a squirmy earthworm, creating your own insect, and searching for bug homes in the woodland. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $10 per child. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Art in the Garden: Recollections FREE WHEN: Through March 22: see website for days and times WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: See select works from the first ten years of exhibitions in QBG’s art gallery. WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Nature Play Club FREE WHEN: Through April 23: third Sunday of each month, 2pm WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy free monthly sessions at the zoo and in nearby parks, connecting families back to nature through unstructured, free-play exploration. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

Get Active! Meditation for Kids FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 3, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about the benefits and different methods of meditation. WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. queenslibrary.org.

African American Dance Workshop with Christine Campbell FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 4, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Baisley Park Branch, 117-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy an interactive workshop of African-American dances. WANT TO GO? 718-529-1590. queenslibrary.org.

Baby Play Date FREE WHEN: Through Feb. 24: Mondays, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Court Square Branch, 25-01 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Join every Monday afternoon for open play in the meeting room for babies and their caregivers! WANT TO GO? 718-937-2790. queenslibrary.org.

AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Play Monopoly, Candy Land, Chutes & Ladders, Jenga, and more! WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

Seaside Teen Anime/Gaming Club FREE WHEN: Through June 24: Wednesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Seaside Branch, 116-15 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Park AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Teens! Join Wednesday afternoons for a variety of anime features and gaming! WANT TO GO? 718-634-1876. queenslibrary.org.

Capoeira Classes WHEN: Through June 24: Monday and Wednesday, 7:15-8:45pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Learn the Afro-Brazilian art of capoeira, a fusion of martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 kids; first class free. 718-496-1730. capoeiracenterny.org.

Teen Video Gaming FREE WHEN: Through June 30: Tuesdays, 4-5:15pm WHERE: Queens Library, Arverne, 312 Beach 54th St., Arverne AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join your fellow teens to play the latest video games on the Xbox One and PS 4 video systems. You will have fun competing with your friends while building your hand-eye coordination. WANT TO GO? 718-634-4784.

NYRR Open Run Baisley Pond Park FREE WHEN: Through Dec. 26: 9am; check-in 8:45am WHERE: Baisley Pond Park, 156-10 Baisley Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: NYRR Open Run is a community-based, volunteer-led running initiative bringing free weekly runs and walks to local neighborhood parks. WANT TO GO? 347-692-0488. facebook.com/ groups/328717541146271/.

Music and Movement for Infants and Toddlers FREE WHEN: Through Feb. 24: Mondays, 12:15-1:15pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Infants, toddlers, and caregivers enjoy songs, movement, finger plays, puppets, and other activities. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

Games Galore! FREE WHEN: Through March 30: Mondays, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point QueensParent 35

AGES: All WHAT: Children will make a non-sew freedom quilt out of foam squares while learning the meaning of the codes of each square. WANT TO GO? 718-651-1100. queenslibrary.org.

Tiger & Magpie: Good Luck Painting from Korea WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 2pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Taught by contemporary Minhwa artist Stephanie Lee, participants will paint 19th-century Korean tigers and magpies to take home for New Year’s luck! WANT TO GO? $10 adults; $5 children; free for teens. 718-4637700. flushingtownhall.org.

Origami FREE

Little Makers Groundhog Day Craft FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 2-3pm WHERE: Queens Library, Peninsula, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: All WHAT: Make and take home a simple Groundhog Day craft. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

Take Your Child to the Library Day FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am-3pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: All WHAT: Take a story walk, make Forky from Toy Story 4, and more. Younger children can enjoy Play-Doh, crawl through the tunnel, pretend in the kitchen, and play with trains and toys. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

Let’s Get Crafty: Pop up Valentine’s Day Cards FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Hunters Point Branch, 47-40 Center Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Create pop-up Valentine’s day cards. WANT TO GO? 718-990-4150. queenslibrary.org.

Make Your Own Rainstick Musical Instrument FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 4, 3-4pm WHERE: Bay Terrace Library, 18-36 Bell Blvd., Bayside AGES: 6-11 WHAT: Children will learn how to assemble and decorate their own rain stick musical instrument. WANT TO GO? 718-423-7004. queenslibrary.org.

Freedom Quilt: What We Know, What We Believe, and What Inspires Us FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 4, 4-6pm WHERE: Queens Library, Langston Hughes Branch, 100-01 Northern Blvd., Corona 36

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Monday, Feb. 10, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Arverne, 312 Beach 54th St., Arverne AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids can learn about origami, an ancient Japanese art form in which paper is folded in certain ways to create unique paper sculptures. WANT TO GO? 718-634-4784. queenslibrary.org.

Jewelry Making Workshop FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Ridgewood Branch, 20-12 Madison St., Ridgewood AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join this monthly jewelry making workshop. WANT TO GO? 718-821-4770. queenslibrary.org.

Go Far, Go Together Collage FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, East Flushing Branch, 196-36 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Children will make colorful paper collages that will represent Black History Month. WANT TO GO? 718-357-6643. queenslibrary.org.

Art for Tots | Art on Display: Clay Day WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8 and Sunday, Feb. 16, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Noguchi Museum, 32-37 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 2-4 WHAT: Learn strategies for engaging your child during museum visits. Reservations required. WANT TO GO? $10 per family. 718.204.7088. noguchi.org.

Library Doodles FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 8-15 WHAT: Add some of your original drawings to the library zine! Stories, poems, jokes, and puzzles are also accepted. WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010.

Kids’ Painting FREE

Make Your Own Bounce Ball FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 20, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, South Ozone Park Branch, 128-16 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join us to create an inspiring painting! WANT TO GO? 718-529-1660. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 25, 3-3:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, Queens Village Branch, 94-11 217th St., Queens Village AGES: 6-12 WHAT: Children may join us to make your own bounce ball! WANT TO GO? queenslibrary.org.

Slime! FREE

Family Knit and Crochet FREE

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 21, 11am-12:15pm WHERE: Queens Library, South Ozone Park Branch, 128-16 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park AGES: 4 and older WHAT: Participate in the fun art of making slime! WANT TO GO? 718-529-1660. queenslibrary.org.

Midwinter Craft Day FREE WHEN: Feb. 17-21, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 1-4pm WHERE: King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Join for three days of fun, free family crafts! WANT TO GO? 718-206-0545. kingmanor.org.

Beading and Jewelry Making FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 21, 1-3pm WHERE: Queens Library, South Ozone Park Branch, 128-16 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park AGES: All WHAT: Create bracelets and necklaces with beads and gem stones. WANT TO GO? 718-529-1660. queenslibrary.org.

Face Painting with Jamaica Performing Arts Center FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 5-8pm WHERE: Queens Library, Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Join us for face painting to support South Jamaica Reads. WANT TO GO? 718-990-0778. queenslibrary.org.

TechCraft: Digital Drawing FREE WHEN: Mondays, Feb. 3, 10, and 24, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Flushing Branch, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: 11-14 WHAT: Use Wacom Intuo tablets to make art: pin-back buttons, comic strips, and drawings to post on social media. Registration suggested. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.

Building with Popsicle Sticks FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 25, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, South Ozone Park Branch, 128-16 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park AGES: 6-12 WHAT: Children are welcome to explore their creative side making designs with craft sticks and connectors. WANT TO GO? 718-529-1660. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Through Feb. 25: Tuesdays, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Peninsula, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Bring your own yarn and needles. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

Sparkly Winter Painting FREE WHEN: Thursdays, Feb. 6, 13, and 27, 10:30am WHERE: Queens Library, Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children will celebrate winter by creating their own sparkly hat, bubble wrap snowy tree, and cotton ball house. WANT TO GO? 718-990-0778. queenslibrary.org.

Comics Drawing Session and Author Talk with Kristen Gudsnuk FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 28, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Join Kristen and play an imagination-enhancing doodle game, and then make a three-panel comic strip! Bring your drawing pads and pencils. WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

The Hour of Misfit Crafts FREE WHEN: Saturdays, Feb. 8 and 29, 2-3pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make bizarre crafts and spread joy through the world! WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. queenslibrary.org.

Needlework FREE WHEN: Through May 26: Tuesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Bayside Library, 214-20 Northern Blvd., Bayside AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn needlework. Material is limited. WANT TO GO? 718-229-1834. queenslibrary.org.

Children Knit & Crochet FREE WHEN: Through June 23: Tuesdays, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Windsor Park Branch, 79-50 Bell Blvd., Bayside AGES: 8-12 WHAT: Children can learn how to knit or crochet! Bring a crochet hook (size G or H) or knitting needles in sizes 7, 8, or 9. WANT TO GO? 718-468-8300. queenslibrary.org. QueensParent 37

Courtesy Howe Caverns

outing

Day Trip, Anyone? Family getaways that aren’t too far from home Go spelunking at Howe Caverns in Cobleskill in Schoharie County for a look at a 6-million-year-old cave in upstate New York.

ome say you never know what you’ll find in your own backyard. The saying holds true for our proverbial backyard, where there is much to explore and discover with the family. Since many schools in our area have a long weekend for Presidents Day (or even a week off of school!), we’ve put together a list of some worthy attractions just outside your local radius, with no location more than 150 miles away.

Baseball Hall of Fame 25 Main St., Cooperstown, NY 888-425-5633 • baseballhall.org Hours: Daily, 9am-5pm; Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day: daily, 9am-9pm Admission: $25; $20 seniors ages 65 and older; $15 children ages 7-12; free for children ages 6 and younger At this mecca for fans of the great American pastime, you can relive the history of Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, and women in baseball, and take in the display of historic baseball cards. Kids can visit the Sandlot Kids’ Clubhouse, an interactive area devoted to Little Leaguers who want to learn about the big league.

Crayola Experience 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA 610-515-8000 • crayolaexperience.com/easton Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm Admission: $22.99 ($19.99 online); free for children 2 and younger Discover the magic of color with 25 attractions at Crayola Experience. Kids can explore four floors of family fun to create custom crayons and markers, bring their drawings to life on the big screen, star in their own coloring pages, paint with melted wax, or “doodle in the dark” on an interactive floor. Grab a colorful concoction from Café Crayola and take home one-of-akind souvenirs from the official Crayola Store.

Dinosaur State Park 400 West St., Rocky Hill, CT 860-529-8423 • dinosaurstatepark.org 38

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-4:30pm Admission (for exhibit center): $6; $2 children ages 6-12; free for children 5 and younger Pack your sunscreen for a day of outdoor adventure. For a small fee, visitors can mine for gems and fossils or make their own cast of a dinosaur footprint. The Discovery Room includes a Connecticut Geologic Treasures exhibit, Life Through Time Fossil exhibit, and more.

Howe Caverns 255 Discovery Drive, Cobleskill, NY 518-296-8900 • howecaverns.com Hours: Friday-Sunday, 10am-3pm Traditional Tour: A 90-minute walking tour with boat ride: $25; $21 children ages 12-15; $13 children ages 5-11. Family Flashlight Tour: A 2-hour tour with flashlights offered on Sunday evenings (for ages 5 and older): $45; reservations required. Lantern Tour: A 2-hour tour with lanterns on Friday and Saturday evenings (for ages 16 and older): $45; reservations required. Signature Rock Discovery Tour: A 2½-hour spelunking tour that reveals a portion of the cave that was closed for more than 100 years (for ages 14 and older): $155; reservations required. Journey more than 150 feet below the Earth’s surface, where you’ll take a tour of an underground cavern 6 million years in the making. You’ll see stalactites and stalagmites, limestone formations, and the underground Lake of Venus. Above ground, Howe High Adventure activities include a four-tower zip line, ropes course, rock wall, air jumper, and gem mine at the Howe Caverns Mining Company. The H2OGO Ball gets visitors rolling down a hill in a 12-foot inflatable ball filled with 5 gallons of water. Plus, there’s a café and motel on-site.

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kid’s life

Keeping the Peace How to reduce conflict and foster strong sibling relationships when your children share a room By Jaimie Seaton

e can’t all live in luxury duplexes or spacious houses. In fact, the vast majority of New Yorkers in the metro area live in small apartments, which means families have to get creative with how they use their space—and siblings might have to share a room. Laura Markham, Ph.D., founder of Aha! Parenting and author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings, advises parents start by explaining the situation. Tell your children: “We do need you to share a room with your brother/ sister. I realize that’s asking a lot of you, and I want you to always feel like you can come and talk to me if you get upset by anything. And we’ll put on our thinking caps and find a way to solve whatever the problem is.” There are bound to be ups and downs, so Dr. Markham shares 10 tips for reducing conflict in a tight space.

Expect bumps and don’t give up. There will be a transitional time when you first put your kids together, so expect difficult nights and have a back-up plan. If your baby is used to sleeping with you, first move her to a crib in your room. When she moves to the elder sibling’s room, and if she cries excessively, move her to the living room for the night so the elder child can sleep. Put sleep first. If you’re moving a baby into an older sibling’s room, make sure the baby can sleep through the night so he’s not waking the older child. Consider using a white noise machine to help both children sleep. Start during vacation. If you are transitioning baby or simply putting two siblings together for the first time, try to make the change over a

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

long weekend or vacation when everyone can sleep in and there is less pressure. Let young children share a bed. When your youngest child is old enough to sleep safely with a sibling, push two twin mattresses together on the floor. This can be a great way to foster closeness, and when the children get older and want their own bed, you can pull the beds apart. Secure their treasures. We want to teach our kids to share, but they should also have a place where their prized possessions (such as a model they built or a favorite book) are just theirs. Have a locked cabinet where each child can store their treasures. This is especially important when one of the siblings is a toddler or young child who may not understand boundaries. Designate the bedroom a quiet space. Sometimes one child needs more downtime than the other. Defining the bedroom as a quiet place and relegating louder activity to family spaces can go a long way toward a peaceful home.

Children’s Birthday Parties Teen Parties Corporate & Team Building Events

Create separate spaces. The most common reason kids have a hard time when they share a room is privacy. Set up play tents or bed canopies with curtains, so each child can feel they have their own cocoon. With older siblings or siblings of different genders who need even more privacy, divide the room in half using bookcases or even a sheet to create a temporary wall. Validate their feelings. If your kids want privacy, it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong. Your children shouldn’t be made to feel disloyal to each other if they want space. Let them know it’s okay. Work to solve conflicts. If kids are having an irreconcilable difference, some family counseling might be in order. If you have teenagers who are at each other’s throats, counseling can help to uncover the underlying issues. It can also help them develop the ability to communicate safely and express their needs. If all else fails, separate them. If you absolutely have to, consider giving the living room to one of the kids, or the parents, until the living situation changes (the older child goes to college or you move to a larger space). Dr. Markham also urges parents to be flexible— you’re not going to be able to set up the situation and leave it until your kids move out or you’re able to move to a home or apartment with more rooms. Communicate frequently with your children and make adjustments according to what works best for them. And remember, sharing a room is teaching your children to be resilient and adaptable—and they’ll likely grow up to be better sleepers.

Jaimie Seaton has been a journalist for more than 20 years and is a former foreign correspondent for Newsweek. Her essays and reported stories on divorce, parenting, dating, and a wide range of topics have been featured in the Washington Post, New York Magazine, Parents and many other publications. Follow her on Twitter @JaimieSeaton.

Party Packages Avaliable Year Round Call for Details Please call our party hostess Lisa for more information and to book your party today!!! 718-353-6300 www.WhitestoneBowlingLanes.com QueensParent 41

black history month

Discovering Diversity 8 books for kids that explore significant moments and important figures in black history By Kirsten Clodfelter

A is for Activist Inspire preschool readers with this ABC board book by Innosanto Nagara. The rhyming and alliteration will keep young learners engaged while sharing a message that calls children to action in support of justice and equality in their communities. (Ages 3-5; Triangle Square; $11.95) Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History This New York Times bestseller from authorillustrator Vashti Harrison features 40 kid-friendly biographies of black women who impacted history. The project began with a series of posts Harrison shared to her Instagram (@vashtiharrison) during Black History Month, before growing into the wildly popular book it is today. (Ages 4-10; Little, Brown Young Readers; $16.99) A Girl Named Misty In this compelling biography from the American Girl series, young readers will learn the journey of the talented Misty Copeland, who made modern history when the American Ballet promoted her to principal dancer—the first black woman to hold the title in the company’s history. (Ages 7-10; Scholastic; $4.99) Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History Looking for a companion to Harrison’s beautifully written children’s book debut? Dive into her most recent book, Little Legends, for more engaging, compelling, and accessible primers on some of American history’s most exceptional black men. (Ages 4-10; Little, Brown Young Readers; $10.99)

March (Books 1-3) In this award-winning and intimate graphic novel trilogy, Congressman John Lewis (DGA) shares his firsthand account of key events during the Civil Rights Movement. He approaches complex subjects in a way that’s accessible and meaningful, making this series a must-read for middle- and high-school students looking to learn more about black history. (Ages 13 and older; Top Shelf Productions; $14.95-$19.99) A Child’s Introduction to African American History: The Experiences, People, and Events That Shaped Our Country Young readers with an interest in history and culture will enjoy this one by Jabari Asim, which focuses not only on key figures but on significant events that shaped America—from the slave trade to today’s Black Lives Matter movement. (Ages 10-15; Black Dog & Leventhal; $19.99) Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March Learn about a significant milestone during the Civil Rights Era from someone who lived it. This memoir, by Lynda Blackmon Lowery, brings history to life as she recounts her time as the youngest protestor in the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery in support of voting rights for African Americans. (Ages 12-17; Speak; $9.99) Young, Gifted and Black In one- and two-page vignettes, this brightly illustrated book illuminates 52 exceptional black figures from the past and present, including such greats as Maya Angelou, W.E.B. DuBois, Langston Hughes, Nina Simone, Beyoncé Knowles, Simone Biles, Shirley Chisolm, and Serena Williams. (Ages 7-10; Wide-Eyed Editions; $23.99)

Kirsten Clodfelter is a Midwest-based freelance writer, the co-founder of Rise Marketing Inc., and a mom of three. Learn more at kirstenclodfelter.com or follow her on Instagram: @icanmotheranyway.

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Flushing Meadows Corona Park ntc.usta.com

Celebrations in the Kitchen Hicksville celebrationsinthekitchen.com CK KIDS Middle Village ctkny.org

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum intrepidmuseum.org

Laser Bounce Glendale laserbounce.com

Music Together With Music and Me Serving Greater Queens

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Great Speakers. Great Learning. Helping Young Children Learn & Grow

APRIL 28 –MAY 1, 2020 WYNDHAM NEW YORKER HOTEL

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183-02 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-380-4145 hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org “The camp where everybody knows your name” offers an open house every Sunday from 9-11am. Program for ages 4-14. Register online for full or partial season programs.

Magic Day Camp

216-15 Peck Ave., Bayside 718-634-8109 magicdaycamp.com See what our camp has to offer at our open house event on Sunday, Feb. 16 from 12-3pm at Jib Lanes.

World Neighborhood Charter School 2 Saving money on a10/15/19 2:08 PM Our 135-25 79th St., Howard Beach New York City family day is easy! 718-392-3405 Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more. Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

owncs.org/own2 admissions@owncs.org Visit us to learn about our great school. Tour dates: Feb. 4 at 9am, Feb. 19 at 1pm, Feb. 22 at 11am, March 9 at 2pm, March 19 at 4pm.

QueensParent 43

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

DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS Emanuel Mizrahi D.D.S., PC

Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates 110-35 Jewel Ave., Forest Hills 718-897-6666 perfectsmilesareus.com Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates is a premier orthodontic practice with a reputation for patient comfort and compassion. We use the most advanced technology and techniques to ensure excellence of diagnostics and treatment.

DOCTORS AND 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 Queens: 718-640-6767 Nassau: 516216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 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.

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE Bankers Life - Kimberly WilliamsRegnier

Serving NYC Metro Area, Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and Westchester 347-0247-7293 bankerslife.com kimberly-williams.regnier@bankerslife.com Our goal is simple, to offer solutions that meet your needs today and for the life of your retirement. Our agents begin by asking you a few questions. Knowing what’s most important to you, we can provide solutions.

Lisa Macbeth, Financial Advisor

7 Hanover Square, Suite 800 212-764-6262 x-2820 mobile: 646-7268332 noalgoldfarb.com/team lisa_macbeth@natfin.net Lisa Macbeth, M.B.A., non-fee financial planner with 20 years of experience in finance and investments-helping individuals, families, and businesses of all income levels develop realistic financial plans to achieve their dreams.

LEGAL SERVICES

our products are 100 percent non-toxic. Treatments include two free re-checks. Whether or not you use our service, we are here to help you.

SPECIAL NEEDS Able Health Care Service

91-31 Queens Blvd., 6th floor, Elmhurst 718-606-7222 44 Court St., 10th floor (1001), Brooklyn 718-606-7222 ablehealthcare.com info@ablehealthcare.com Able’s special needs-certified home health agency provides comprehensive support to clients and their families with developmental disabilities. Services include: home health aide, therapy, skilled nursing, medical social worker, and nutritional counseling.

The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball

Fersch LLC

11 Broadway, Suite 550, Manhattan Serving all of NYC and surrounding areas 212-422-2660 pffamilylaw.com familylaw@pffamilylaw.com Fersch LLC practices exclusively in matrimonial and family law. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and determined advocates for our clients. We provide care and attention to clients and their families of all income levels.

The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball

118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 1220, Forest Hills 718-520-7754 488 Madison Ave., Suite 1120, Manhattan 212-223-4100 ballnyelderlaw.com With more than 25 years of experience The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball focuses on elder law issues, matters affecting the developmentally disabled of all ages, and trust and estate planning options including will preparation and estate administration.

LICE Fairy LiceMothers

2463 South Long Beach Road, Oceanside 866-561-0492 1755 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park 866-561-0492 679 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head 866-561-0492 fairylicemothers.com fairylicemothers@gmail.com Our treatment centers are kid-friendly and

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy

Lisa Macbeth, Financial Advisor

viduals, families, and businesses of all income levels develop realistic financial plans to achieve their dreams.

Sky Village NYC

23-05 29th St., Astoria 917-608-1658 skyvillagenyc.com skyvillageevents@gmail.com We offer classes and open art play opportunities for children with special needs throughout the week! We offer a sensory sensitive environment for your child along with experiences that you will both enjoy such as painting, and making playdough and slime.

THERAPY & COUNSELORS Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C.

114-20 Queens Blvd. Suite CS 2, Forest Hills 180 E. 79th St. Suite 1C, Manhattan 1-888-441-0015 comprehendthemind.com Dr. Sanam Hafeez, an expert in diagnosing and treating all childhood psychological and learning conditions, has a refreshing approach; direct, warm, and competent. These qualities have made her sought after in the field of neuropsychology and child development.

TUTORS & TEST PREP Miss Anita – Private Math Tutor and Advisor

917-477-7953 workinganita@gmail.com Tutoring available for various levels of math: elementary and middle math, algebra 1, algebra 2, geometry, and tests like the GED. Experienced teacher, tutor, and advisor of 23 years who can help students pass any test.

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 for gifted and talented students. We are a designated Johns Hopkins CTY and SAT testing center.

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE

Our Editors Find the Best Events for You!

TUTORS

NINA’S TUTORING CENTER Private Tutoring by Experienced Tutors. For All Grades For All Subjects School Homework All School Tests

Every Thursday, you’ll receive a curated list of the best of what’s happening that weekend—from sports and theater to festivals and petting zoos.

Complies with Common Core Standards

SHSAT, TACHS, SAT, REGENTS, CITY/ STATE WIDE TESTS

• Reading Comprehension and Writing Classes • Math Classes OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • LOOK FOR YELLOW SIGN 87-02 GRAND AVENUE, ELMHURST, NY

Phone: 718-205-7508

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92-22 CORONA AVENUE, ELMHURST, NY

Phone: 718-606-1056

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

acrobatics / gymnastics

classes

music

All Star Studio................................................. 12

Further Music Studio ...................................... 31

YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 39

Poppenhusen Institute ................................... 29

birthday / party services Christ the King Continuing Education ............ 12 Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ................. 2 Laser Bounce - Glendale ................................. 31 USTA BJK National Tennis Center ..................... 8 Whitestone Lanes .......................................... 41

camps Adventure Childcare Center ............................. 3 All Star Studio................................................. 12 Christ the King Continuing Education ............ 12

dance All Star Studio................................................. 12

developmental Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......... 23

education Adventure Childcare Center ............................. 3 Commonpoint Queens Samuel Field Center --

School of Rock - Queens ................................ 19

performing arts / acting Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48 Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp ................ 5

play spaces Laser Bounce - Glendale ................................. 31

Early Childhood ............................................. 17

special events

Further Music Studio ...................................... 31

Countryside Montessori School ...................... 19

Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ................. 2

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp .................. 23

Kon Gen International Preschool ...................... 7

Lewis Latimer House Museum......................... 24

Our World Neighborhood School ..................... 5

Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48

Poppenhusen Institute ................................... 29

Mill Basin Day Camp ...................................... 17

Windsor School (The) ....................................... 8

Countryside Montessori School ...................... 19

Sam’s Camp and Swim Club at Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center................................ 24 School of Rock - Queens ................................ 19 Superkicker Sports Corporation ........................ 7 Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp ................ 5 USTA BJK National Tennis Center ..................... 8 Windsor School (The) ....................................... 8 World of Discovery Camp .............................. 24 YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 39

child care / day care

family entertainment / events / outings Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ................. 2 Laser Bounce - Glendale ................................. 31 Lewis Latimer House Museum......................... 24 Poppenhusen Institute ................................... 29 Whitestone Lanes .......................................... 41

fitness Superkicker Sports Corporation ........................ 7

Young Child Expo .......................................... 43

special needs Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......... 23 Young Child Expo .......................................... 43

sports Christ the King Continuing Education ............ 12 Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48 Sam’s Camp and Swim Club at Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center................................ 24 Superkicker Sports Corporation ........................ 7 Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp ................ 5 USTA BJK National Tennis Center ..................... 8 Whitestone Lanes .......................................... 41 YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 39

Adventure Childcare Center ............................. 3 Commonpoint Queens Samuel Field Center --

health

Early Childhood ............................................. 17

Emanuel Mizrahi DDS PC Forest Hills Orthodontic

tutors

Kon Gen International Preschool ...................... 7

Associates ........................................................ 3

Windsor School (The) ....................................... 8

QueensParent 45

last word

What do you really want for Valentine’s Day?

“Every Valentine’s Day I want those around me to feel loved, so I usually don’t think about what I want. I guess in a perfect world where I get what I want, I would ask for what I request on my birthday, Christmas, etc.: a nap. That’s really all I want. Just a nap. A nice long nap.” —Jason Greene (@thejasongreene), Manhattan

“To me, there is nothing more romantic or sentimental than feeling loved and appreciated. To be really noticed for all the invisible work moms do daily. I don’t need any physical presents, but I do love experience gifts. A family activity, a date night, concert, cooking class, comedy show, or a play are always top on my list.”—Katy Winter (@katys_organized_home), Westchester County “A whole 24 hours of silence—a night to sleep, a morning to only think about myself. And, then, after 24 hours of silence, I want sex. Because to have good sex you need a peaceful, uncongested mind, and that is hard to do when you’ve been jumping from mom-mode to entrepreneur-mode all day.”

“I want a day of f, at home . with no kids And a box of chocolatesns.”

—Pamela Pekerman (@pamelapekerman), Manhattan

rsky Quee

— Margot Luba

“A nice bottle of red wine, good dark chocolate, and my kids to stop interrupting for one second so I can have an actual conversation with my husband.” —Jessica Reese, Westchester County

Connect with us 46

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

@nymetroparents

As we just moved into a new house, I’m dreaming of pretty linens (napkins and placemats) for our new table and all the parties I am hoping to plan but may never get around to doing so.” —Lisa Miller, Brooklyn

“I want an experience— something that feels special and maybe a little lavish… something I can get out of my mommy clothes for!” —Stella Leo (@StylishlyStella), Manhattan

@NYMetroParents

NG I BR OUR Y Y MIL FA

Sunday, March 8, 11am-2:30pm

Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex

Hosted by

Fun For Kids Activities • Crafts • Games • Sports

Great For Parents Meet directors from camps, summer programs, destinations, local programs and more.

Free family ticket at licampfair.com QueensParent 47

Magic Day Camp

WE ACCEPT G PARTICIPATIN S N UNIO

PAYM E PLAN NT AVAI S LABL E

” ! l a c i g a M s i y “Where Every Da FREE Door to Door Transportation

Daily Swimming at Country Club Pool with instruction

2-8 Week Sessions Available • Daily Hot & Cold Lunches with Special BBQ and Pizza Days Included

Owned Family ed for at & Oper Years 0 Over 3

AIR-CONDITIONED Buses!!!

• Daily Swimming at a Private Country Club Pool with Instruction • Organized Sports • Professional Tennis Instruction • Arts & Crafts • Full Dance & Drama Program • 3 Exciting Trips Every Week • Spacious Outdoor & Indoor Play Areas with Air Conditioning We t Accep 9 119

OPEN HOUSE EVE NT: Sunday, February 16th 12 - 3pm Early Drop Off and Extended Day at Jib Lanes LICENSED PROFESSIONAL SUPERVISION Convenient Bayside Location Children Ages 4 to 15

We Can Be Reached at (718) 634-8109 • www.magicdaycamp.com