Queens Parent March 2020 by City Guide NY

Queens

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

MARCH 2020

CHOOSING A CAMP • 10 Questions to Ask a Camp Director • Queens Camp Directory • Camp Comparison Chart

Birthday Hacks

5 tips for a low-stress party

What is cancel culture?

At Oasis I will... Play, Learn & Grow Gain Confidence Be Part of a Unique Community Unplug & Connect with Nature Try New Things Build Lifelong Friendships Have Positive & Supportive Role Models

Oasis Offers:

• Programs for Ages 3-15 • 8:30am-5:30pm • Extended day available • Hot Lunch Option • Flexible Enrollment: 2 - 7 weeks • AC Transportation • Carnivals & Tie Dye • Special Events • Imagination Playground • Legos & Robotics • Arts, Crafts, Music, Dance • Professional Sports Instruction & Clinics • American Red Cross Swimming Program

Join us for an info session!

BAYSIDE

at Queensborough Community College (22-05 56th Ave)

Saturday, March 7th at 11:00 am OR Saturday, March 21st at 11:00 am

@oasisdaycamps

Soccer Kids NYC • We are an award-winning soccer program for children

• • •

ages 2 through 11 Classes are kept small with a ratio of four players for every licensed coach, making quality the focus, not quantity Fun and engaging events for the families throughout the year Best experience guaranteed

FIVE SEASONS PER YEAR: • Indoor/Outdoor: Spring | Summer | Fall • Indoors: Winter 1 | Winter 2 *During outdoor seasons, children can attend additional soccer classes for free!

Seasons are 7 weeks long Cost Per Season: $189

ALL-YEAR PROGRAMS:

• Introductory Soccer Classes • Internal Soccer League • Travel Teams • After School Programs • During School Enrichment Programs • Soccer Birthday Parties • Private Coaching

(917) 655-5437

www.soccerkidsnyc.com info@soccerkidsnyc.com

We are a Youth Partner with the New York City Football Club (NYC FC), our professional MLS team. This partnership allows our families access to unique and amazing experiences that further complement our children's passion for the sport.

QueensParent

inside

march 2020

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

16 Choosing a Camp 10 questions to ask a camp director

26 Take a Birthday Breather Tips to throw a stress-free kids’ birthday party

38 Pic Tips How to take better pictures of your kids

40 Thumb Sucking 101 How to handle this common childhood habit

42 “You’re Canceled!” What you need to know about the current craze

COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 9 News: What’s happening in the community 12 Baby: Rest Stops 14 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 46 Last Word: What is your darkest parenting secret?

THINGS TO DO 29 Family Activities Calendar

RESOURCES 18 Camp Directory 22 Camp Chart 43 Open Houses

43 Party Central 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!

180 East 79 St. Suite # 1C New York, NY 10021

114-20 Queens Blvd, Suite CS2 Forest Hills, NY 11375

Committed to providing Neuropsychological and educational assessments to the children of NYC for more than a decade. Our director, Dr. Sanam Hafeez, is a highly sought-after expert in child development and learning and is faculty at Columbia University. She's a regular medical guest and expert on NBC, CBS, ABC, and CNN news shows, the Dr. Oz show, and contributes regularly to Web MD, Yahoo! Health and Parenting, Glamour, MSN, Women's Health Magazine, and more. Our clinical team, led by Dr. Sanam Hafeez, is made complete with experienced experts such as Dr. Abigail Connolly, Dr. Miriam Most, and Dr. Michelle Santiago. Together they approach each case in a unique and tailored manner to deliver on-point assessments, clinical impressions, and recommendations, that help your child and family be happier, healthier and more successful.

Who We Help: • Learning disabilities • Autism Spectrum Disorders • Developmental Disorders and Delays • Depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, mood disorders, etc

How We Help: • Extra time and separate location on tests (City Wide, Common Core, SATs, & ACT) • IEP and 504 planning, entrance to private schools and medication management • Forensic (Injury, Child Custody, and Immigration) cases • Treatment planning based on comprehensive assessment

We accept Health Insurance GHI, UnitedHealthCare, Oxford, Cigna, MagnaCare, BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS) All Major credit cards accepted

www.ComprehendTheMind.com | 1-888-441-0015 QueensParent

editor’s note MARCH 2020 • Vol.25 • No.7

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

Happy Spring!

t’s officially spring this month, which means summer is right around the corner. And summer, to us, means one thing: camp! Is your child returning to their beloved camp from last year, or are you on the hunt for a new summer program? If you’re in the latter group, you’re in luck! You’ll find plenty of Queens camp options right in this issue: Turn to p. 18 for descriptions of all the area camps, and on p. 22, you’ll find a side-by-side camp comparison chart. Once you’ve narrowed down the list of potentials, speak with the directors to get a full picture of the camp—check out the 10 questions to ask on p. 16. If you’re in the former group, you’ll still find plenty of fun and advice to help you be a better parent in this issue, whether you’re wondering how to talk to your teen about cancel culture (p. 42), how to get your toddler to stop sucking her thumb (p. 40), or how to throw a stress-free birthday party (p. 26). For us, spring is also a season of growth, whether it’s the flowers blooming, baby animals arriving at the local zoo, or seeing your child near the end of another school year (can we pause time, so they stay small for just a little longer?). One way we’re growing is by creating new partnerships with local, popular Instagrammers and bloggers to give you even more resources for great advice and ideas, including Pamela Pekerman, whom you can meet on p. 10! We’re excited to introduce you to more of them in the coming months! Here’s to this season growth—however happens looks for your family! Katelin Walling Editorial Director

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

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

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

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!

ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Anastasiya Borunova

Our cover star is 3-year-old Jasper from Manhattan—a grand-prize winner in our 2019 Cover Kids Contest! A huge thanks to Macy’s Backstage for Jasper’s outfit, and an even bigger shout out to Sarah Merians of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) for the great photo!

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

Want to know when the 2020 cover contest opens? Sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/newsletter!

FINANCE

CREDIT MANAGERS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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.

Your child’s

amazing summer experience starts on the Hofstra campus!

Hofstra Summer Camps, for grades K-12, offers seven weeks of fun and learning in over 75 areas, including arts, academics, sports, career discovery, and more! Sessions run from June 29-August 14, 2020.

Summer Camp registration is underway. Learn more at a Camp Open House: Saturday, April 4, noon-2 p.m. Visit hofstra.edu/camp or call 516-463-CAMP for details.

Ask about our on-site registration discounts!

... And get a head start on the excitement with Hofstra Spring Break Programs! Children in grades 2-12 can experience ﬁve-days of fun with GirlTech Leaders, Fiction Writing, Digital Arts, and more.

Spring Break Programs are offered Monday-Friday, April 13-17, 2020, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn more at ce.hofstra.edu/springbreak

Save

$100

if you register by

March 15, 2020! To learn more about Hofstra’s programs for youth, including our Saturday Classes for Young People and our Pre-Collegiate programs, visit ce.hofstra.edu/youth or call 516-463-7400. Ad_CAMP_SpringBreak2020_MetroParent_Full_B.indd 1

QueensParent 2/20/20 9:41 AM7

Our World Neighborhood Charter School 2

Apply Now! Kindergarten through Grade 4 Free Public Charter School in School District 27 • Rigorous academic curriculum • Spanish beginning in Kindergarten • Study of world cultures • Pillars of a Positive Community • Arts & Music integrated into curriculum • Individualized learning • Free breakfast & lunch

For additional information, contact Lucille Ranchor

646.415.2775

admissions@owncs.org 135-25 79th Street Howard Beach, NY 11414

www.owncs.org/own-2

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Vi sit u

• 1:1 student laptop program

our great school! t u abo n r ea l o st

OPEN HOUSE DATES Monday, March 9th • 2pm Thursday, March 19th • 4pm Saturday, March 28th • 1pm

Courtesy Six Flags Great Adventure

news

Six Flags for All

The Jackson, NJ amusement park has plans to become an inclusive environment all year long.

Six Flags Great Adventure has plans to earn a Certified Autism Center™ designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. This means at least 80 percent of the guestfacing staff at Six Flags must complete a training and certification program through IBCCES, complete onsite audits, and make a commitment to future training. The Jackson, NJ location already hosts annual Autism Days, during which the park transforms into a sensoryfriendly space with lowered light and noise levels, shorter lines, and decompression areas. But the company is working toward the designation because it understands that visiting new places or going on family vacations can be challenging and overwhelming for kids with autism, and it wants to be an inclusive fun space. “We are proud to partner with IBCCES to ensure that guests on the autism spectrum have the best possible experience when visiting our parks,” said Jason Freeman, the Six Flags vice president of safety. “The certification process will equip our team members with the tools and training needed to better serve guests with special needs. We want them to know Six Flags stands ready to welcome them with open arms.” Find out more details at nymetroparents.com/six-flags.

QueensParent

Courtesy Pamela Pekerman

news

It’s Story Time! In honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday, March 2 is National Read Across America Day! So grab your favorite books and snuggle up with the kiddos for an extra story time. If you want to go all out, only read books by tongue-twisting, rhyming master. Our favorite? Daisy-Head Mayzie!

Pamela Pekerman with her two children

Hustling Like a Mom Celebrate Spring March 19 at 11:50pm officially marks the arrival of spring, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac—bring on the warmer weather! To celebrate, we found the top 20 things to do this season in Queens. Check them out at nymetroparents.com/ spring.

Got a Green Thumb? Get your hands dirty and cultivate your child’s green thumb by creating grassy gnomes (think: chia pets) to watch over your garden— or add some greenery to your life if you don’t have space for a garden. Visit nymetroparents.com/ gnomes for directions.

ou might recognize Pamela Pekerman from morning shows, where she appeared for a decade talking about style trends. And then she had kids and decided she didn’t want to travel as much. “So, I began to write about the real-life moments I was experiencing as a mom of two under two!” she says. Soon she was blogging about time-saving tips for busy moms, creating videos for Parents.com, and hosting events for moms. Her focus evolved into content and networking events that appeal to hustling mompreneurs. While she still does school pickup and drop-off every day, she says, “I’ve never felt more fulfilled by my work than I am now, as I grow a community of women that are redefining what it means to be a working mom.”

What’s the best parenting advice you ever received?

What do you think is a parent’s hardest job?

Listen to the crowd but go with your gut. Don’t silence your inner mama bear, as she truly knows what is best for her cubs. Sure, it’s nice to be a PTA mom, but that might not be on your priority list. …Parenting is hard, and you need to ensure you are coming at it from a place of inner contentment and confidence in your choices—because so many moments will challenge your sanity and your sense of self.

Being present. It’s a gift to the person you are speaking with, in this case your children, to be present, to not have your mind wander. In 2019, I found that replacing the phrase “I have to” with “I get to” gave me a dose of gratitude for that which was before me. I get to practice piano with my kids. I get to pick up my kids from school.

Read more from Pamela Pekerman—and learn about her next Hustle Like a Mom event—at nymetroparents.com/hustle.

Connect with Pamela Pekerman facebook.com/PamelaPekerman

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

@pamelapekerman

Pamela Pekerman

New Places, New Programs Karate Comes to Hofstra

Learn to Rock Out in Bayside! The Bayside location of School of Rock is slated to open in the spring; it’s currently operating out of a temporary space in Whitestone. This is the first School of Rock in Queens, a diverse community that is home to a thriving music scene. The performance-based music programs cater to all skill levels, serving ages 4 to adult. With its motivational song-first approach, School of Rock teaches keys, vocals, guitar, bass, and drums. 34-43 Francis Lewis Blvd., LL, Suite 2, Bayside; 929-999-7625; queens.schoolofrock.com.

Hofstra Continuing Education is slated to offer a karate program this summer for second-fifth and sixth to 10th grades, Monday-Friday, June 29-July 2. Campers will participate in karate for half the day and enjoy other recreational activities, such as swimming, for the other half. The staff will include an experienced instructor from the Goshinkan Jujitsu Dojo Family Self Defense Center in Merrick. Campers of all levels are welcome and no special equipment is needed. 255 Hofstra University, Hempstead; ce.hofstra.edu/youth.

Springing Forward Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 8, which means we lose an hour of our already limited sleep. While “springing forward” makes us more tired (cue the extra cup of coffee), it can turn our children into major grumps. To help your kids adjust (and be a little less grumpy), have them go to bed 15 minutes earlier over the next few nights to get them back on track, suggests Lisa J. Meltzer, Ph.D., a sleep expert and co-author of Pediatric Sleep Problems: A Clinician’s Guide to Behavioral Interventions.

The Importance of Sleep

When it’s Friday but it’s not 5 o’clock yet!! —Posted by @willzcrewnyc

It’s a pillar of health and is essential to human functioning, health, wellbeing, and healing. And for babies, sleep is essential to development. The growth hormone is released during sleep, causing your infant to gain weight, length, and head circumference; the brain develops and fosters better cognitive development; and it helps with social and emotional development. For more on the importance of sleep, and how it benefits the family unit as a whole, visit nymetroparents.com/sleep.

Want to see your child in our magazine? Tag us on Instagram (@NYMetroParents) for a chance to be featured!

QueensParent 11

baby

Rest Stops How to get baby to sleep anywhere By Christina Vercelletto

sleep routine is important for keeping your baby wellrested and happy—not to mention yourself! Although it can be tricky at times, sticking to that hard-won routine when you can’t be home all day (and when can you?) is well worth the effort, says Kim West, aka The Sleep Lady, an infant sleep coach. “A nap-deprived baby will have more difficulty going to sleep at bedtime and staying asleep,” West warns. “Plus, it will be easier for a well-rested baby to nap on the go than one who is already overtired.”

In the Bedroom It helps to have baby in a bedside bassinet for the first few weeks so you can keep middle-of-the-night feedings simple and in the dimmest light possible. “The biggest task in the first two months is helping with day and night confusion,” West says. “In the evening, keep the house quiet, and interactions with your infant brief and boring.”

In the Den, Kitchen…Anywhere A comfy, portable crib can be a huge help, especially in the early days, when your newborn’s internal clock can’t tell the difference between night and day. It will allow you to start dinner, put away groceries, or load the dishwasher while your baby naps nearby.

At Grandma’s House “Timing for naps is everything!” West insists. “It’s essential that you watch your baby’s wakeful windows so that he doesn’t stay awake long enough to get overtired.” Therefore, it’s wise to

always bring along a compact crib. Choose one with a canopy to block the sun and protect baby from insects so, even if you decide to go to the park, baby’s sleep schedule won’t have to miss a beat.

On a Walk Turn your stroller into a “napmobile” by reclining the seat so your child can stretch out. Some babies need constant motion to go to sleep and stay asleep. “If you stop moving, and your baby wakes up after too short of a nap, then start moving again,” West advises. Also, consider using a stroller shade to block out light and distractions. “This is especially helpful for alert babies who have a harder time shutting the world out to go to sleep.”

Hitting the Road Car seat naps can go a long way toward keeping your tot’s daily sleep requirements met. If possible, plan car rides at your baby’s regular nap times to make it easier for her to snooze, West advises. Play relaxing, soft music, if any, and consider putting up a shade on the car window next to your child’s seat.

On Vacation Bring a familiar piece of home—your little one’s favorite lovey or teether—to comfort and soothe her to sleep. West also recommends setting the scene: “quieting the environment, dimming the lights, playing soothing music, reading.” Finally, sticking to a consistent bedtime, eliminating noise, and slowing down with a low-key activity will cue baby’s body for sleep—and it works for parents, too.

Since 2006, expecting moms to moms of toddlers visit Mommybites for advice on all things parenting. The Nanny Boards are NY’s only resource for finding exclusively employer-recommended caregivers. Visit Mommybites.com. 12

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Do you have concerns about your child's development?

is there for you! Evaluations and full range of therapeutic home-based Early Intervention Services at

NO COST TO PARENTS for children under 3:

• ABA / Special Instructions • OT • PT • Speech language and feeding • Nutrition • Family Training

Our team of QUALIFIED LICENSED AND CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS will help families to navigate the process one step at a time.

SERVICING ALL BOROUGHS

Call

718-769-9888 or visit us on Facebook

The Early Intervention Program (EIP) is a public program for children 0-3 who are suspected of having or at risk for developmental delays. Potentially eligible children can be referred by calling 311. Health insurance may be used for approved services. Child’s eligibility for the program determined only by state-approved evaluators under contract, and all services must be authorized by the county.

MIC & CORE ACADEAL OP TIONS RECRE ATION g • Drama

s • Cookin Martial Art g s • Swimmin Arts & Craft s • Day Trip Computers and More!

ntering Pre-K All Children E ! Are Welcome to 8th Grade

UST 14 JULY 6 – AUG ay

OPEN HOUSE

rough Frid Monday th :00pm 9:00am – 4 the Day, Register by 7 Weeks! Week or Full

APRIL 4

10am-12pm

For more information or to schedule a private tour, visit www.kewforest.org/summer or call 718.268.4667 x108

er Care Before & Aft e bl is Availa

119-17 UNION TURNPIKE • FOREST HILLS, NY

SAVE

$100

QueensParent 13

advice

Ask DadandBuried

lished Estab ars 46 Ye

Summer Camp Register Now!

You May Sign Up for 1-5 Days Per Week Full Day / Half Day / Single Classes July 6th to August 14th, Mon-Fri • Ages 3-14

My son’s birthday is coming up. We used to host birthday parties in our home, but he’s in third grade, and his friend group has gotten bigger. I’m not sure I want to deal with decorating or cleaning up after 15 kids and their parents. So, I’m considering renting a play space—one of the bouncy venues. But I can’t decide! —Jean P., Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

T Full Day Camp • 9:00am-5:00pm

Early drop off (8am) and Late pick up (6pm) Available

Half Day Camp/Theatre Camp 9:00am-1:30pm or 12:30pm-5:00pm

AIR-CONDITIONED ACTIVITIES: Art & Crafts, Gymnastics, Drama On Camera, Vocal & Dance All Boys Group Science & Math Enrichment THEATRE CAMP: Children will put on a favorite Broadway Musical

Summer Dance Classes Single Classes 5:30pm to 9:30pm

Summer Dance, Drama & Vocal Classes Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Creative Movement, Acrobatics, Drama & Vocal and Triple Threat

188-22 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, NY

718.479.8522

americandanceanddrama.net Amazing Birthday Parties Year Round 14

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

his is a question I’ve wrestled with myself, multiple times. Is it better to host a birthday party at home or to have the party at a venue? Not an easy call—unless you’re among the 1 percent. I mean, if you’re one of the Kardashians and you have a palatial estate that you can decorate like mad, and install bouncy houses and games, complete with employees who will handle setup and cleanup? That’s the way to go. But if you’re just one of us regular folks? It’s convenience vs. cost. Going the venue route is super convenient. Everything—except maybe the birthday cake—is usually handled by the venue. The staff decorates, plans the games and activities on-site, and handles all the cleanup. It can be more expensive to secure those hours—especially for a venue in the NYC area—but it’s largely stress-free. That’s huge. Hosting at home can be cheaper, but it may cost your sanity. You’ll be stressed about decorations; you’ll need to provide food and drink and the fun. You’ll be stressed about cleaning before guests arrive; you’ll be stressed about cleaning after guests leave; there’s a lot of work involved! And while it should definitely cost less money, making sure everything is Pinterest-perfect may end up costing more than you suspect. (And if you enlist your arts and crafts-impaired spouse in the preparations, you might have to factor in the expense of the resulting divorce as well!) All the extra work—and its accompanying headaches—may counter the cost benefit. It ultimately comes down to which you prefer: saving money or peace of mind. One more thing: If you do host the party at home, I implore you to provide beer or wine for your fellow parents. Nobody needs to suffer through one of those things stone-cold sober! Though some venues do allow it, many don’t. In fact, that’s what ultimately tips the scales for me. Looks like we’ll be hosting the next birthday party at home! Our advice column features the wise and 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.”

THE #1

TECH CAMP

FOR AGES 7-19 Coding. Game dev. Robotics. Digital arts. This isn’t just a camp. It’s an experience unlike any other. Here, you push past the boundaries of school, ﬁnding your squad and bonding over the latest tech. Led by expert instructors, you will build the skills needed to forge a brilliant future.

Request your brochure today!

iDTechCamps.com | 1-888-709-8324

FREE CONSULT

Dr. Emanuel Mizrahi

Platinum Plus Invisalign® Provider

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.

• iTero 3D Scanner • AcceleDent: to accelerate orthodontic treatment • Invisalign® & Invisalign Teen® • Damon® System Brackets & Damon® Clear Brackets • Digital X-Rays • In-office simulation to see your future smile • Formlabs 3D model printer

Education:

Late Night and Saturday Appointments Available

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:

(718) 897-6666 FREE Parking!

110-35 Jewel Ave Forest Hills, NY 11375 | www.perfectsmilesarus.com QueensParent 15

Choosing

Camp

10 questions to ask a camp director By Jess Michaels

any parents select a camp based on a friend or relative’s rave reviews. But choosing your child’s summer experience based on hearsay or personal anecdotes is often problematic, according to the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. Instead, it’s important to thoroughly research a camp in order to determine if it’s a good fit for your kid. The ACA suggests making an appointment with the camp’s director and asking the following 10 questions.

What is the camp’s mission or philosophy?

Who is the staff?

Each camp has its own. Make sure this particular camp’s mission matches your own family’s values.

Ask about the ages and backgrounds of staff members. Find out how they were hired and what kind of training and background checks they went through.

What is your background and experience?

Are you able to accommodate my child’s special needs?

Ask the camp director about his experience, years at the camp, and previous jobs. You want to make sure you find a commonality here. When you send your child to camp, you are forming a partnership with the director to ensure your child has a successful camp experience.

If your child has any special considerations, such as having food allergies or ADHD, or is wheelchair-bound, be completely upfront about her needs and make sure the camp is able to accommodate them.

What type of child is successful at the camp? Does it sound like she is describing your child? If not, this isn’t the camp for your child.

After pouring over websites and marketing materials, parents often start to feel like all camps look alike. Find out what makes this camp stand out from the others.

Can you describe the program?

How are conflicts handled?

Find out if the program is structured (has a set schedule) or elective (children choose their activities). Also inquire about how the program changes for older kids. For example: Do the elective choices increase with age?

While camps work hard to build a caring community, fights among campers can occur. Ask the camp director how the camp handles these types of conflicts.

What are the camp’s safety procedures?

Ask if you can call parents of campers currently enrolled at the camp, especially ones with kids who are the same ages as your children. They will be your next valuable source of information.

It’s important to know about emergency action plans, water safety, medical staff, and camper-to-staff ratios.

What makes your camp unique?

May I speak with references?

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.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

There are hundreds of day camps and sleepaway camps in the New York area, which can make determining the just-right spot for your child overwhelming. Here’s advice from camp directors on how to create the perfect summer for your kid: Know What You—and Your Child—Want

Do Your Research

Consult with your child (it’s her summer after all!) but also consider what you want her to gain, whether that’s learning how to swim, making friends, or STEM skills.

Browse through websites—and involve your child, too. Same goes for when you visit camp fairs. As you research, pay attention to interactions with the staff, and the facilities, activities, and counselor-tocamper ratio.

Look into the Camp’s Accreditation It’s important that prospective camps are accredited by the American Camp Association—it’s a sign of approval that isn’t easy to achieve.

Keep Your Budget in Mind Look at the total all-in cost for each camp—including transportation, clothing, gear, etc. Then take all the camps that are over-budget off your list.

Don’t Forget About Day-to-Day Logistics Think about the location of pickup and drop-off. And, ask about whether the camp has flexibility if you want to take a family vacation.

Call or Visit the Camps on Your Shortlist Most directors recommend visiting your two to three finalist camps. Bring your child and make sure the camp seems clean and well-maintained. Calling the camp director is your next best option—try to dig into factors that aren’t mentioned on the website. The camp should be one your child can enjoy this summer, and for many summers to come. For more tips from camp directors on choosing a camp, visit

nymetroparents.com/choose-camp.

BrOaDWaY SUMMer caMp 2020 Rehearse and perform a different show each week. Build your skillset, hone your technique, grow your confidence, and make lifelong friends!

Choose (1) week, or sign up for all (8) - Each week we do a different show! Daily schedule: 9 AM - 5 PM. Flexible arrival and departure times are available. Week 1: July 6th - 10th, 2020 Week 2: July 13th - 17th, 2020 Week 3: July 20th - 24th, 2020 Week 4: July 27th - 31st, 2020

Special Offer

Custom Secret Theatre Water Bottle! (Must register for more than 6 weeks of Camp)

Week 5: August 3rd- 7th, 2020 Week 6: August 10th - 14th, 2020 Week 7: August 17th - 21st, 2020 Week 8: August 24th - 28th, 2020

4402 23rd Street, Long Island City

www.secrettheatre.com Contact us at 718.392.0722 or sta@secrettheatre.com QueensParent 17

CAMPS DIRECTORY Day Camps Beautiful Minds Childcare

62-02 Myrtle Ave., Ridgewood 347-987-3270 beautifulmindsnyc.com beautifulmindsnyc@gmail.com We strive to find fun and creative approaches to empower children to be the best they can be. Our goal is to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of our staff and a unique partnership with parents. Full- and parttime available this summer!

Beth Sholom Day Camp

401 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights 516-621-9257 bethsholomdaycamp.com office@bethsholomdaycamp.com Beth Sholom Day Camp offers children, ages 3-15, the opportunity to reach their goals in a friendly, noncompetitive atmosphere. Activities include music, dance, arts and crafts, karate, as well as outdoor sports. Red cross swim instruction is offered in our three heated pools. BSDC provides door-to-door, air-conditioned transportation.

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 playbased mornings, and Primary (ages 3 and older) spend time doing academics and on

the playground. Camp is a great way to acclimate your child to school.

Flushing YMCA

138-46 Northern Blvd., Flushing 718-551-9375 Frankie Carlucci, senior director, youth and family ymcanyc.org/locations/flushing-ymca/programs-classes/camps fcarlucci@ymcanyc.org The Flushing YMCA Camp is bigger and better this year with exciting activities such as our camp carnival, petting zoo, swim lessons, STEM, dance, and field trips. Kids can choose from special programs including sports, build-a-friend, and slime. Ask us about our early bird discount and financial assistance.

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.

Hofstra Summer Camps

101 Oak St., Uniondale 516-463-CAMP (2267) hofstra.edu/camp ce-camps@hofstra.edu Hofstra Summer Camps offer children, ages 5-17, more than 70 programs from theater to sports, gaming, art, music, STEM and STEAM, academics, culinary, dance, YouTube Studio, Adventure Education, and Super Hero Academy. At our camp, kids will explore their interests, learn valuable social skills, and have fun while gaining confidence.

The Kew-Forest School

Summer at Kew-Forest 119-17 Union Turnpike, Forest Hills 718-268-4667 x108 kewforest.org/summer summer@kewforest.org Summer at The Kew-Forest School provides children entering pre-K to eighth grade with academic enrichment in reading, writing, and mathematics, along

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

with recreational activities including art, sports, cooking, swimming, and drama. Full- and half-day options, before- and after-camp care are available. Register by the day, week, or for all six weeks.

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 rooftop 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.

Oasis Day Camp

Oasis in Bayside - Queensborough Community College 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside 646-519-5055 oasischildren.com bayside@oasischildren.com Oasis Day Camp prides itself on age-appropriate programming for ages 3-15. Early Start (ages 3-5) is a nurturing camp

environment. Lower (first-second grade) offers sports, arts, swim, enrichment, and nature. Upper (third-sixth grades) is bigger and better for older campers. Teen Travel (seventh-ninth grades) offers unique trips, overnights, friendships.

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.

Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp

P.S. 376, 210-21 48th Ave., Bayside 718-684-1187 PS 219, 144-39 Gravett Road, Flushing 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.

YMCA Summer Camps

ymcanyc.org/camp rho@ymcanyc.org The YMCA of Greater New York is one of the largest providers of camp programs in the city, with 70 day camp sites across five boroughs, a sleepaway camp upstate, and more than a century of experience giving kids the best summer ever! Where there’s a Y, there’s a way.

Young People’s Day Camp of Queens

347-801-2375 queenscamp.com Since 1972, our family-run camp has provided safe, fun-filled summers for

thousands of Queens youngsters. YPDCQ is accredited by the American Camp Association. Activities include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, music and dance, nature science, academics, educational and recreational field trips, as well as many other special events. Ages 4-15.

Specialty Camps All Star Studios

108-21 72nd Ave. (4th floor), Forest Hills 718-268-2280 allstarstudiosnyc.com allstarstudiosnyc@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.

American Dance & Drama

188-22 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 718-479-8522 americandanceanddrama.net

American Dance & Drama Studio was established more than 45 years ago at the same location. We offer classes for ages 2 through adults in all types of dance, as well as gymnastics, drama, Zumba, and singing. Our summer camp programs offer full-day, half-day, and single classes for ages 3-14.

prestigious campuses including NYU, Caltech, and Imperial College London. Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics, and creative arts.

Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Manhattan 646-381-5166 intrepidmuseum.org/camp camp@intrepidmuseum.org Camp Intrepid is Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum’s full-day camp program where history and STEM come together! Winter, spring, and summer camp dates available. Sign up for daily or weekly sessions. Discounts available for museum members and early bird sign-ups. Camp groups also welcome!

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 funfilled 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.

iD Tech

Held at 150 prestigious campus locations 1-888-709-8324 idtech.com iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 450,000 alumni and more than 20 years of experience. Summer programs for ages 7-19 are held at 150

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Camp Intrepid

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 continued on next page

QueensParent 19

continued from previous page 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

Various locations - find the location near you musictogetherli-queens.com While the big kids are at camp this summer, have some family-style, music-makin’ fun with your little ones. Once a week for six weeks, you’ll sing, dance, and play with your baby, toddler, or preschooler in a play-based, developmentally appropriate musical environment. Find a location in Queens or on Long Island.

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-TheGardens Glendale at Tiger Schulmann’s Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com Come join a community of music makers. Music Together, is the internationally beloved early childhood music and movement program for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their grown-ups who love to participate! Sing, dance, play, and learn where music learning supports all learning. Schedule your free class for one of our four seasonal sessions!

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 12 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

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

exams, SAT and ACT. Call about available summer programs.

mid-winter camp, and a spring camp. Our teacher ratio to students is 1-to-14.

School of Rock Queens 2020 Summer Program

Soccer Kids NYC

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.

Secret Theatre Academy – Broadway Summer Camp

4402 23rd St., Long Island City 718-392-0722 secrettheatre.com sta@secrettheatre.com Secret Theatre Academy runs eight weeks of fun-filled theatre camp. Each week students will learn and perform an entire show. We also offer day camps, a

Over 15 locations throughout Queens 917-655-5437 soccerkidsnyc.com info@soccerkidsnyc.com Soccer Kids NYC provides an amazing, fun, and unparalleled soccer learning experience to all children ages 2-12. We offer introductory soccer classes and competitive soccer teams. Spring Season will be starting in April, followed by our fun Summer Season with many classes to choose from. Best experience guaranteed!

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. Classes begin July 1.

Coming to Bayside Spring 2020 Operating now in temporary space in Whitestone!

queens.schoolofrock.com

929-999-ROCK STILL ENROLLING FOR ALL PROGRAMS!

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/ 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 American Dance & Drama Fresh Meadows and Middle Village americandanceanddrama.net Beautiful Minds Child Care Ridgewood beautifulmindsnyc.com Beth Sholom Day Camp Roslyn Heights bethsholomdaycamp.com Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Flushing ntc.usa.com Camp Huntington High Falls camphuntington.com

l l

CK Kids Middle Village ctkny.org

Countryside Montessori School cmsgn.com Flushing YMCA Flushing ymcanyc.org

Hofstra University Summer Camps Hempstead hofstra.edu/camp ID Tech Held at 150 Campus Locations idtech.com Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum intrepidmuseum.org/education/ camp_intrepid Kew Forest Forest Hills kewforest.org/summer Kon Gen International Preschool Flushing and Bayside kongeninternationalpreschool.com

l l l

l l

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

l l

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

l l

Registered by the NY State Education Dept. Registered by the NY State Education Dept. Registered by the NY State Education Dept. Established in 1969

Accredited by the Middle States Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges Accredited by the Middle States Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges Accredited by the by Middle States States Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges Accredited the Middle Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges

Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow. Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow. Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow. Learn Today. Lead Tomorrow. Summer SchoolLead (JulyLead 1 to August 12) Learn Today. Tomorrow. Learn Today. Tomorrow. Regents classes for credit advancement. Advance one year in one or two subjects! ENGLISH:

(All classes include writing skills) Middle School English English 9th Grade Common English 10th Grade Core English 11th Grade English 12th Grade

MATHEMATICS:

COURSES

SOCIAL STUDIES: U.S. History & Gov’t Economics Participation in Gov’t

SCIENCE:

Algebra I Required Earth Science Common Geometry Labs Living Environment Core Algebra II Available Chemistry Regents Exams Available Pre-Calculus 1 $680.00 Physics August 13 and 14 Pre-Calculus 2 (AP Calc. A) Tuition: $880.00 per class (Two classes required to earn full year course credit.)

Test Prep: SAT & ACT When Classes Are Offered: July 1 – August 12 (6 weeks) | Monday – Friday

English Section: (Reading, Writing, and Language) 90-minute class from 11:15am–12:45pm Math Section: 90-minute class from 12:55pm–2:25pm

Cost: Cost: $880 per 90-minute class (6 weeks) Students are responsible for purchasing required test prep books (will be announced prior to the start of classes)

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR IMMEDIATE TRANSFER AND 2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR Grades 7-12 | Affordable Tuition – Merit Scholarship & Financial Aid Available

37-02 Main Street, Flushing, New York 11354 • (718) 359-8300 • www.thewindsorschool.com Modern Central Air Conditioned School Building

YEAR-ROUND REGISTRATION

OPEN NOW!

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- QueensMar20 QueensParent 23

Magic Day Camp Bayside magicdaycamp.com

Mill Basin Day Camp Mill Basin millbasindaycamp.com

Music Together Various locations in Queens and Long Isand musictogetherli-queens.com Music Together with Music and Me Astoria, Bayside, Forest Hills, Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com Nina’s Tutoring Center Elmhurst Oasis Bayside oasischildren.com Sam’s Camp and Swim Club Little Neck commonpointqueens.org/ program/nursery-camp

Soccer Kids NYC Multiple locations in Queens soccerkidsnyc.com

The Windsor School Flushing thewindsorschool.com

l l l l

Ultimate Enrichment Bayside and Flushing uecamps.com

Dance

Arts & Crafts

The Secret Theatre Long Island City secrettheatre.com

Special Needs

Music

l l

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

Swimming

Sports

Theater

School of Rock Queens Bayside queens.schoolofrock.com

Superkickers Sports Jackson Heights superkickers.com

STEAM/Robotics

Lewis Latimer House Museum Flushing lewislatimerhouse.org/tinkerlab

PROGRAMS: Half Day Option

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Chart

SERVICES:

l l

CK Kids Middle Village ctkny.org World of Discovery Day Camp Bay Terrace worldofdiscovery.org

YMCA Summer Camps locations across Queens ymcanyc.org/camp

Young People’s Day Camp of Queens Oakland Gardens queenscamp.com

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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 • Extended Hours for Working Parents • Red Cross Swim Program • Sports (Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball) • Drama & Arts and Crafts • Large Gymnasium & Recreation Room • Catered Kosher Lunches & P.M. Snacks • Drone Training and Krav Maga • Jewish Culture Program

• End of Summer Carnival • Day Trips (Adventureland, Laser Bounce, Splish Splash and more) • Early Morning Supervision • In Camp Overnight • Weekly Cookouts • Door-to-Door AC Transportation • Gymnastics and Dance NEW • Shabbat Services

Online Registration; Go to hjcdaycamp.org to register NOW! Like us on

@hjcdaycamp

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

LARGE INDOOR POOL!

for 2020! 3D Design & Printing

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

FLUSHING YMCA SUMMER CAMP June 29 - August 21, 2020

INDOOR/OUTDOOR PLAY

SCIENCE CAMP

PONY RIDES

CAMP CARNIVAL

SPORTS CAMP

SWIM CAMP

Ages 3 - 16.* 10% Sibling Discount Available + YMCA Members enjoy even more savings! Reserve your spot now and take advantage of our 10% OFF Early-Bird Special (until April 18th). *Transportation available.

DAY CAMP

DANCE CAMP

ymcanyc.org/FlushingCamp 718-551-9375 | fcarlucci@ymcanyc.org 138-46 Northern Blvd Flushing, NY 11354 QueensParent 25

birthday

Take a Birthday Breather Don’t get caught up in the hype—it is possible to throw a stress-free kid’s party! By Kirsten Clodfelter

ove over Pinterest parties. It’s time to take a break from the perfectly curated child’s birthday spectacular. While there’s nothing wrong with themes or crafting, not everyone wants to stay up until 2am making party favors and Instagram-able snack spreads. All kids deserve to be celebrated, yes, but hear us out: Birthdays can be special, magical, and unforgettable without requiring a Cricut machine. Sometimes it’s just fine to throw a low-key party that doesn’t break the bank. We asked experts for their favorite ways to minimize the stress.

Trash your schedule.

and throw a glow-in-the-dark dance party. Old school classics such as musical chairs and heads-up-seven-up are also great go-to games.

Do what they love. “Overall,”Jackson says,“way too much energy goes into trying to create unique experiences.” Instead, she suggests starting with something a child loves and building the party around that. For example, if the child is a sports lover, consider an afternoon of soccer at a sports complex, bouncing at a trampoline park, or a friendly mini-golf competition. You can also bring in some help. Hire an entertainer who can bring in exotic animals or science experiments for a couple of hours of birthday learning and fun.

Dakota Jackson, a special events planner for D&S Events in Virginia, which she runs part-time with her wife, says: go rogue. “The biggest unnecessary thing parents stress about is keeping a strict schedule. Kids won’t necessarily remember what they did, but they’ll remember how they felt. If everyone seems to be enjoying an activity, don’t force the group to start the next thing you planned. And if something isn’t a hit, don’t be afraid to move on quicker than expected.”

Go for an experience.

Go low-tech. Like, really low.

Set the tone.

“Younger kids are happy to just be in a room with other kids! If you blow up some balloons and tell them to keep the balloon in the air, they’ll play for a long time,” says Jessica Ashley, founder and lead event designer at Jessica Ashley Events in Virginia. Another easy crowd-pleaser: hand out glow sticks, kill the lights,

Most importantly, Ashley says, parents should take a breather. “Kids want to share in the joy with their parents. If Mom or Dad is stressed out, kids can totally sense that.” Don’t let the goal of a “perfect party” get in the way of the whole point of the day— celebrating your child in a way that’s fun and happy for them.

Rather than hosting a party, have your child invite one or two friends out for a special event, like a day at an amusement park, an overnight camping trip, or to see a performance or sporting event. Not only does this give parents a pass on party planning, but “a smaller group of friends might create more intense memories together,” Jackson says.

Kirsten Clodfelter is a Midwest-based freelance writer, the co-founder of Rise Marketing, Inc., and a mom of three.

Want to know the best

activities for families? Subscribe to our family activity

email newsletter

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER 26

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

CALL US TO BUILD YOUR CHILD’S CUSTOM PARTY!

Check our website for our great add-ons and special party activities

Offering Classes in: Ballet Tap

Jazz/Contemporary Hip Hop Acrobatics

Summer Dance Intensive

BASIC PARTY INCLUDES:

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

• 2 Hostesses/ Motivators • Invitations • Bounce House with slide • Bounce House with Ball pit • Tattoos • Face Painting

• Cotton Candy • Music & Games • Disco Lighting • Balloon Bouquets • Pizza & Juice for kids • Set up and Clean up • Tableclothes • Paper Goods

** Don’t forget to ask about our outdoor summer parties

Come Try Our NEW Improv Dance Class!

Try a FREE CLASS this Spring! Ages 1-12 from 30 minutes to 1 hour. Classes include: Warm-up • Stretches • Soccer Basics • Soccer Activities • Soccer Games

Super Kickers Summer Camp Best Day Camp in Jackson Heights! Ages 4-12 Soccer • Arts • Music • Piano • STEM/Robotics • Cooking and more! REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

OUR PROGRAMS INCLUDE: Winter Soccer Classes • Dance Classes • After-School Program Advanced Soccer Program • Gymnastics Classes

1-(833)-superkickers or (718) 350-1535 QueensParent 27

Come Visit Us at Our Open Houses! 3/8, 4/5, & 5/17 from 10am-1pm

Beautiful Minds Childcare Monday - Friday 7AM – 6PM • Ages 2–5

ABOUT THE PROGRAM:

• Foreign Language

• Baby Yoga

INCLUDED IN TUITION:

☼ Door to Door Busing ☼ 3 Heated Pools Onsite ☼ For Ages 3-15 ☼ Nut Free Lunch & Snacks

• A Year-Round Program

• Music and Movement

• Creative Curriculum with Thematic Units

• Arts & Crafts

• 7,500 Sq. Ft. Facility

• Potty Training

• Indoor/Outdoor Playgrounds

• Science and Explorations

• Daily STEM Activities

• Cooking Classes

• Large Classrooms

• Healthy Hot Meals Prepared (Breakfast, Lunch & Snack Provided)

• Candy and Nut Free Environment • ACS/HRA VOUCHERS ACCEPTED

62-02 Myrtle Ave Ridgewood, NY 11385 BeautifulMindsNYC@gmail.com • (347) 987-3270

www.BeautifulMindsNYC.com

bethsholomdaycamp.com 516-621-9257 ☼ Roslyn Heights, New York

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

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

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

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

Jericho

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

516-597-4344

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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

R A D N E CAL

H C R MA

3 WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

qpcal@davlermedia.com

ay y-by-d our da line: t u o dar Check alendar on c /calen

ts.com

paren

od, borho neigh and cost. y b h Searc type, age, event ily! ted da Upda

tro nyme

for details on Turn the page Hungry ents: The Very es Pr erg rb Kupfe Caterpillar Show

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 30 Editor’s Hot Tickets 31 Holiday Fun 32 Nature Lovers 33 Educational Activities 34 Little Makers

35 Get Active 36 5 Events Worth Leaving the City,

Museums & Exhibits 37 Theater, Concerts, & Movies

EDITOR’S

T O H TICKETS Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the March 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! LI Camp Fair FREE WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 11am-2:30pm WHERE: Hofstra University Fitness Center, 245 Hofstra University, Hempstead, Nassau County AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids can play and participate in fun activities while parents meet summer camp exhibitors. Register online. WHY WE LOVE IT: Activities include face painting, art projects, sports, dance, music, martial arts, and lots of playtime! WANT TO GO? 516-597-4937. licampfair.com.

Purim Carnival FREE

Brain Day Stop ‘n’ Swap FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 12-3pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: Bring clean, reusable, items such as clothing, housewares, games, books, and toys that you no longer need, and take home something new-to-you! WHY WE LOVE IT: Involve the kids and you’ll be teaching them how to make the most of what we already have. WANT TO GO? 718-347-3276. queensfarm.org.

WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 11:30am-2pm WHERE: Forest Hills Jewish Center, 106-06 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills AGES: All WHAT: Dress in costume and have a blast with an inflatable bounce house, obstacle course, professional face painting, games, crafts, and prize booth. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids won’t go hungry with carnival food (hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn) and hamantaschen available for purchase. WANT TO GO? Free to enter; tickets for rides and games for purchase. 718-263-7000. fhjc.org.

New York International Children’s Film Festival 2020

Kupferberg Presents: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

Brain Day

WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 3pm WHERE: Kupferberg Center for the Arts, 153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: The little caterpillar with the big appetite comes to Queens! Featuring evocative music, stunning visual effects, and innovative puppetry, this show brings to life some of Eric Carle’s most beloved children’s tales. WHY WE LOVE IT: Little ones will be in awe at the menagerie of 75 lovable puppets! WANT TO GO? $25. 718-793-8080. kupferbergcenter.org.

WHEN: Friday, March 20, 2-4:30pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Scientists and NYSCI explainers describe the brain’s different parts, demonstrate how it allows us to sense our environment and control our muscles, and discover similarities between human and animal cognition. WHY WE LOVE IT: Exhibits, activities, and real brains bring neuroscience to life for visitors of all ages! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $20; $15 children.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Through March 15: see website for showtimes WHERE: Venues throughout NYC AGES: 3 and older WHAT: The festival will welcome more than 25,000 young people, parents, and movie-lovers to explore the world without leaving NYC. You can see the best new animation, live action, documentary, and experimental film from across the globe. WHY WE LOVE IT: Expect more than 100 film screenings including some unique short film programs, plus parties and red carpet events! WANT TO GO? See website for ticket prices. 212-349-0330. nyicff.org.

718-699-0005. nysci.org.

2020 Bayside Saint Patrick’s Day Parade FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 11am WHERE: Bayside Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, 36th Avenue and Bell Boulevard, Bayside AGES: All WHAT: Join the fun as the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade marches up Bell Boulevard from 36th Avenue to 42nd Avenue. WHY WE LOVE IT: You don’t have to be Irish to have a ball! WANT TO GO? baysidesaintpatricksdayparade.org.

Macy’s Flower Show FREE WHEN: March 22-April 5, daily, 10am-10pm WHERE: Macy’s Herald Square, 100-104 W. 35th St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Dive into the vibrant colors of deep-sea florals and stunning marine life at the upcoming Flower Show, “Voyage to Oceanum.” Visitors will embark upon an exciting under-the-ocean odyssey, discovering long-lost treasures and aquatic beauty along the way. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a highly visual way to engage little ones while you get some shopping done! WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com.

Holiday Fun Purim Carnival WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 1-3:30pm WHERE: Commonpoint Queens, 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills AGES: All WHAT: The event features inflatable rides, games, food, and more! WANT TO GO? $5; maximum of $15 per family. queenslibrary.org.

Crafternoon: Celtic Creations FREE WHEN: Wednesday, March 11, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Hunters Point Branch, 47-40 Center Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make a craft inspired by the Emerald Isle. WANT TO GO? 718-990-4150. queenslibrary.org.

St. Patrick’s Day Story & Craft FREE

St. Patrick’s Day Craft FREE WHEN: Thursday, March 12, 4-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, McGoldrick Branch, 155-06 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children are invited to make a St. Patrick’s Day craft. WANT TO GO? 718-461-1616. queenslibrary.org.

St. Patty’s Party WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 4-5:15pm WHERE: My Gym Fresh Meadows, 176-60 Union Turnpike, 3rd Floor, Fresh Meadows AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: An afternoon of fun, games, and contests! WANT TO GO? $15; $13 members. mygym.com.

Saint Patrick’s Day Party WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 5-8pm WHERE: Queens Dance Project, 214-26 41st Ave., Bayside AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Drop off your child for a night filled with exciting activities! WANT TO GO? $30; $25 members. 718-229-1133. queensdanceproject.com.

St. Patrick’s Day Craft FREE WHEN: Tuesday, March 17, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Peninsula, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join for a fun St. Patrick’s Day craft. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

St. Patrick’s Day Crafts FREE WHEN: Tuesday, March 17, 4-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodside Branch, 54-22 Skillman Ave., Woodside AGES: All WHAT: Join us as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. WANT TO GO? 718-429-4700. queenslibrary.org.

Irish Step Dancing FREE

WHEN: Thursday, March 12, 4-5pm WHERE: Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71st Ave., Forest Hills AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Celebrate the traditions and lore of Ireland. Get your ticket at the Children’s Room reference desk the day of the program. WANT TO GO? 718-268-7934. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Wednesday, March 18, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodside Branch, 54-22 Skillman Ave., Woodside AGES: All WHAT: Dancers from The Ciara Greene School of Irish Step Dancing will delight audiences with their high kicking, lively dancing. WANT TO GO? 718-429-4700. queenslibrary.org.

St. Patrick’s Day Craft FREE

Irish Music Concert With Celtic Cross FREE

WHEN: Thursday, March 12, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, Auburndale Branch, 25-55 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children and their caregivers will make a craft. WANT TO GO? 718-352-2027. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 2-3pm WHERE: Queens Library, Flushing Branch, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: The band’s music tells great stories using the traditional sound of sassy pop, alt-country, and funk playing. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org. QueensParent 31

Vet Tech 201 WHEN: Sunday, March 22, 10am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 9-17 WHAT: See and learn from a licensed veterinary technician as you delve deeper into the science of animal care. (Participation in a prior Vet Tech 101 program is a must in order to qualify for Vet Tech 201.) WANT TO GO? $32. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Art in the Garden: Recollections FREE

Children’s Garden Family Day

Nature Lovers STEM: Oil Spill! FREE WHEN: Thursday, March 12, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 8 and older WHAT: In this hands-on experiment, children learn about devastating environmental effects of oil spills and practical ways to clean them up! WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

Children’s Garden Family Day FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 1-4pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: See how worms wiggle, touch and discover the QBG plant collection, create your own tasty and healthy trail mix, plant your own seedling in the Children’s Garden, and do a garden-wide scavenger hunt. WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Living Lab: Our Winter Environment

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.

Wildlife Careers Series WHEN: Sundays, March 1-22, 9-11am WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Roll up your sleeves and get messy! Jr. Keepers will get up close to animals and see what it takes to be a keeper at the Queens Zoo. WANT TO GO? $150. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

A Reptile ‘Edventure’ With Erik Callender FREE WHEN: March 26-30, South Hollis: Thursday, 4-5pm; Cambria Heights: Monday, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library: South Hollis Branch, 204-01 Hollis Ave., South Hollis; Cambria Heights Branch, 218-13 Linden Blvd., Cambria Heights AGES: 6 and older WHAT: This fun-filled educational experience gives children a unique opportunity to see and learn about reptiles, amphibians, and even some large insects from around the world. WANT TO GO? 718-465-6779. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore what happens to our ecosystem during the winter, meet APEC animals, do an art project, and go on an outdoor winter adventure. WANT TO GO? $21. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Stroller Safari

I Want to Be a Vet

Nature Play Club FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 22, 10am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Does your child dream of being a veterinarian? Send them to APEC to learn the basics of animal care. WANT TO GO? $24. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

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.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturdays, March 7-April 18, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: You and your child will have a chance to bond while singing songs, meeting live animals, and enjoying sensory play and craft time! Each session will transition from the one before. WANT TO GO? $185. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

Educational Activities Animal Tales: Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 1-2:15pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Share a book by Dr. Seuss and meet some animals. WANT TO GO? $20. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Celebration FREE WHEN: Monday, March 2, 4:30-5:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, Langston Hughes Branch, 100-01 Northern Blvd., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Share a story, color a Dr. Seuss pencil case, and enjoy refreshments in celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Please register. WANT TO GO? 718-651-1100. queenslibrary.org.

STEM Mondays: Squishy Circuits With Play-Doh FREE WHEN: Monday, March 2, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Use homemade play-doh to build electronic sculptures! WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

STEM Mondays: Paper Circuits–Light Up Bridge FREE WHEN: Monday, March 9, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore simple circuitry to create a unique light-up drawing. WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

STEM: Coding A Lego Maze FREE WHEN: Friday, March 20, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Build a maze and walk your character through it using code. WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

Snapology Adventures FREE WHEN: Saturdays, March 14-28, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Woodside Branch, 54-22 Skillman Ave., Woodside AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create your own LEGO world, including animals, creepers, and your very own Minecraft® character. Preregistration required. WANT TO GO? 718-429-4700. queenslibrary.org.

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s Birthday! FREE WHEN: Monday, March 2, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Pomonok Public Branch, 158-21 Jewel Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the author, read a story, and create a craft. WANT TO GO? 718-591-4343. queenslibrary.org.

ULTIMATE ENRICHMENT SUMMER CAMP BEGINS JULY

Kid STEAM: 3-D Printing FREE WHEN: Wednesday, March 4, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Flushing Branch, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Learn 3-D printing using Tinkercad! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.

AGES 4-12 ACTIVITIES: ¥ Arts ¥ Theatre ¥ Drama ¥ Engineering ¥ Sports

A Century Of Courage: SuperSheroes! WHEN: Thursday, March 5, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71st Ave., Forest Hills AGES: 3-12 WHAT: This is an activity-tribute to the women who paved the way for millions of other men and women around the world! WANT TO GO? 718-268-7934. queenslibrary.org.

July 6 to August 21 8am to 4pm Monday - Friday AM & PM Extended Day Available

The Building Blocks Of Poetry FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Jackson Heights Branch, 35-51 81st St., Jackson Heights AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Learn the basic tools poets use and write your own poems. WANT TO GO? 718-899-2500. queenslibrary.org.

¥ Crafts ¥ Dance ¥ Robotics ¥ Cooking ¥ Swimming

OPEN HOUSE

Sat., Mar. 21 Call for additional dates

WWW.UECAMPS.COM OR 718-684-1187 QueensParent 33

March Arts And Crafts: Paint Like Mondrian FREE WHEN: Monday, March 2, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Rochdale Village Branch, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 5-12 WHAT: It’s your turn to create a Mondrian-style painting! WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

A Century Of Courage: Make Signs For Equality FREE WHEN: Wednesday, March 4, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Arverne, 312 Beach 54th St., Arverne AGES: All WHAT: Take inspiration from the signs, banners, and posters of the suffragists to create your own, reflecting today’s struggles. WANT TO GO? 718-634-4784. queenslibrary.org.

Paper Bag Princess Day FREE

Make It: Felt Painting

Little Makers Make It: Felt Painting WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 1:30-3pm and 3:30-5pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Take inspiration from the microscopic world as you explore the art of needle felting to “paint” works of wool art. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $20; $15 children. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ Birthday! FREE WHEN: Monday, March 2, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Peninsula, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday as we learn about the author, read one of his stories, and create a fun craft. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

Dr. Seuss Day! FREE WHEN: Monday, March 2, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Howard Beach Branch, 92-06 156th Ave., Howard Beach AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Dr. Seuss Day with stories, crafts, and games! WANT TO GO? 718-641-7086. queenslibrary.org.

March Lion Craft FREE WHEN: Monday, March 2, 2:30-3:15pm WHERE: North Hills Library, 57-04 Marathon Parkway, Little Neck AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Use paint, shapes, and utensils to make a lion craft. WANT TO GO? 718-225-3550. queenslibrary.org.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 12-1pm WHERE: Queens Library, Seaside Branch, 116-15 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Park AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the princess of empowerment! Have fun designing crowns and making fortune tellers. There will be giveaways! WANT TO GO? 718-634-1876. queenslibrary.org.

Purim Hamentaschen Bake WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Commonpoint Queens, 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills AGES: All WHAT: Mix, roll, and fill hamentaschen from scratch, as you make two batches: one to donate to a family in need and one to keep. WANT TO GO? $18 per person; $36 per family (up to 4 people). commonpointqueens.org.

Arts & Crafts For First Day Of Spring FREE WHEN: Friday, March 20, 3:30-4:15pm WHERE: Queens Library, Auburndale Branch, 25-55 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children will make a beautiful craft relating to spring. WANT TO GO? 718-352-2027. queenslibrary.org.

Emoji Bookmarks! FREE WHEN: Friday, March 20, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 8 and older WHAT: Use origami folding techniques to make emoji bookmarks. WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

Little Cooks: Funny Face WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 224-65 76th Ave., Oakland Gardens AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Make edible faces made of hummus and vegetables, enjoy the delicious snack, then meet friendly animals! WANT TO GO? $22. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Family Paint Party WHEN: Sunday, March 22, 4:30-5:45pm WHERE: My Gym Fresh Meadows, 176-60 Union Turnpike, 3rd Floor, Fresh Meadows AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Families will create a canvas using stencils or free paint. Then enjoy gym games and activities. WANT TO GO? $15; $13 members. mygym.com.

‘Peter Rabbit’ Program FREE WHEN: Monday, March 23, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Queens Library, McGoldrick Branch, 155-06 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join for a special Peter Rabbit storytime. WANT TO GO? 718-461-1616. queenslibrary.org.

Creative Collage Painting FREE WHEN: Thursdays, March 5-26, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Queens Library, Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children will create collages with textured materials. WANT TO GO? 718-990-0778. queenslibrary.org.

A Century Of Courage: Coasters And Votes FREE WHEN: Monday, March 30, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Hunters Point Branch, 47-40 Center Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Create coasters that celebrate the suffragists! WANT TO GO? 718-990-4150. queenslibrary.org.

Friendship Bracelet Club FREE WHEN: Tuesdays, March 3 and 31, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, Queens Village Branch, 94-11 217th St., Queens Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: A two-part series! Learn how to make a bracelets. WANT TO GO? 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 size G or H crochet hook or knitting needles in size 7, 8, or 9. WANT TO GO? 718-468-8300. queenslibrary.org.

Get Active! YoBoo For Kids: Yoga Boot Camp FREE WHEN: Wednesday, March 11, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, McGoldrick Branch, 155-06 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: This workshop combines the aerobic fun of boot camp with the powerful breathing techniques of yoga to take children on an energy rollercoaster. WANT TO GO? 718-461-1616. queenslibrary.org.

Games Galore! FREE WHEN: Through March 30: Mondays, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Play Monopoly, Candy Land, Chutes & Ladders, Jenga, and more! WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

Let’s Dance Series FREE WHEN: Tuesdays, March 3-April 7, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, East Elmhurst Branch, 95-06 Astoria Blvd., Flushing AGES: 5-17 WHAT: After exploring trademark styles of dancers from the past and present, students will imagine and develop their own routines, expressing themselves through creative movement. WANT TO GO? queenslibrary.org.

Gotta Dance Kids Edition! WHEN: Saturdays, March 14-April 11, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Choreography as seen on Broadway, and in movies, is recreated to provide a fun way of working out. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.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: Mondays and Wednesdays, 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. QueensParent 35

‘Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure: Dinosaurs of the Deep’ WHEN: Monday, March 23, 11am and 6pm WHERE: The Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre, Nassau County AGES: 5 and younger, adult WHAT: Jump in and explore the depths of the prehistoric oceans in this immersive family-friendly experience! WANT TO GO? $25-$30. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.com.

Irish Family Day

The Peking Acrobats

5 Events

WORTH LEAVING THE CITY The Peking Acrobats WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 3pm and 7:30pm WHERE: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown, NJ AGES: All WHAT: The Peking Acrobats® redefine your perceptions of Chinese acrobatics as they push the limits of human ability, defying gravity with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility and control. WANT TO GO? $19-$39. 973-539-8008. mayoarts.org.

WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 1-3pm WHERE: Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, Suffolk County AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a performance from the Mulvihill-Lynch Studio of Irish Dance, learn about the costumes and dances, and take a tour of the Walt Whitman Birthplace!

Museums & Exhibits Open Studio: Plaster WHEN: Sunday, March 1, 11am-1pm WHERE: Noguchi Museum, 32-37 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 2-11 WHAT: Explore the galleries and participate in art-making activities. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $10; free for children younger than 13. 718-204-7088. noguchi.org.

Art for Tots | Set the Stage: Dance, Dance, Dance WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 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.

Laurie Berkner Greatest Hits Solo Tour

Carnegie Hall Citywide: Moona Luna

WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 11am WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill, Westchester County AGES: All WHAT: See award-winning children’s musician Laurie Berkner on her tour of greatest hits! WANT TO GO? $25-$35. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

WHEN: Sunday, March 15, 2-3pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Whether you have kids or are a child at heart, you are going to love the sounds of Moona Luna. Free ticket and NYSCI admission with RSVP! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $20; $15 children. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Pancake Brunch and Maple Sugaring

College Readiness: Ins And Outs Of Financial Aid FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 29, 10:30am-1pm WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy pancakes with fresh maple syrup, learn how to identify maple trees, and visit Tenafly’s tapped tree to see how sap is collect. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 members. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 10:30am-2pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Not all financial aid is equal! Join this interactive workshop with a college financial aid professional who helps explain the types of financial aid available to undergraduate students, and who qualifies for them. WANT TO GO? 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Theater, Concerts, & Movies A Century Of Courage: Films Celebrating Women Who Made History FREE WHEN: Wednesday, March 4, 1-3pm WHERE: Queens Library, Hillcrest, 187-05 Union Turnpike, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Watch films featuring women who helped change history. WANT TO GO? 718-454-2786.

‘Hao Bang-Ah, Mouse!’ with Chinese Theatre Works FREE WHEN: March 4-6, Poppenhusen: Wednesday, 4:30-5:30pm; Bayside: Friday, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library: Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point; Bayside Branch, 214-20 Northern Blvd., Bayside AGES: All WHAT: See a diverse selection of puppet vignettes based on popular songs or well known Chinese idioms, sayings, and folk legends. There will be hands-on demonstrations of the puppets. WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

‘Paige in Full’ WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 2:15pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A visual mix-tape blending poetry, dance, art, and music to tell the tale of a multicultural girl growing up in Baltimore, MD. WANT TO GO? $14; $8 children; free for teens. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Trinity Irish Dance Company WHEN: March 7-8, Saturday, 2pm and 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Corona AGES: All WHAT: Trinity Irish Dance Company heats up the main stage with its inventive style of progressive Irish dance. WANT TO GO? $20 and up. 718-860-0064. queenstheatre.org.

‘Chivalrous Creativity’ WHEN: Tuesday, March 10, 10:30am WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Through puppetry, students will explore how their own unique creativity is a force that can change the world. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-658-7400. jcal.org.

Family Movie: ‘Frozen II’ FREE WHEN: Thursday, March 12, 4:30-6:15pm WHERE: Queens Library, Briarwood Branch, 85-12 Main St., Briarwood AGES: All WHAT: Come to the Briarwood Public Library to watch Frozen II. WANT TO GO? 718-658-1680. queenslibrary.org.

‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ WHEN: Sunday, March 15, English performance: 2:15pm; Mandarin performance: 4:15pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 5-8, adult WHAT: The hour-long triple-bill follows the adventures of The Mixed-Up Chameleon, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and the story of Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? WANT TO GO? $14; $8 children; free for teens. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

‘The Cat In The Hat’ FREE WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 2:30-3:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, East Elmhurst Branch, 95-06 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst AGES: All WHAT: Plaza Theatrical Productions introduces your child to live musical theatre with this children’s classic. WANT TO GO? queenslibrary.org.

Movie Matinee: ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’ FREE WHEN: March 11-23, Kew Gardens Hills: Wednesday, 1-3pm; East Flushing: Monday, 1-3pm WHERE: Queens Library: Kew Gardens Branch, 72-33 Vleigh Place, Kew Gardens; East Flushing Branch, 196-36 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: A young man with Down syndrome teams up with a scruffy outlaw to travel across the Southeast. WANT TO GO? 718-261-6654. queenslibrary.org.

‘A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood’ FREE WHEN: Friday, March 27, 3-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, Maspeth Branch, 69-70 Grand Ave., Maspeth AGES: All WHAT: Writer Lloyd Vogel is tasked with creating a profile of Fred Rogers. When the interviewee suddenly becomes the interviewer, magic begins to happen. WANT TO GO? 718-639-5228. queenslibrary.org.

Children’s Book Club and Performance Series WHEN: Through June 3: see website for showtimes WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: All WHAT: A combination of live adaptations of children’s literature and academic and rich cultural programs enable real-life lessons in friendship, math, science and history. WANT TO GO? $9. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

Guess What: The Family-Friendly Stand Up Comedy Show WHEN: Through Dec. 19: third Saturdays 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 a 12-year-old and her dad. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-706-8783. creeklic.com.

QueensParent 37

tech

Pic Tips 8 expert recommendations for taking better photos of your children By Katelin Walling

e always have a camera in our hands these days, which makes it super easy to snap social mediadestined pics of our kids when they’re doing something cute, funny, or outrageous. But what about when you want to take professional-looking photos to share with Grandma and Grandpa, print for your gallery wall, or add to your photo album? Sarah Merians is CEO and founder of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company, an NYC-based boutique photography studio that specializes in wedding, mitzvah, child, and family photography. Here, she shares eight tips to help you take better photos of your children.

Make it fun!

photos of your child. (And make sure there’s nothing in the background that looks like it’s coming out of his head!) Choose a background that will make the child stand out, Merians suggests, and stay away from darker backgrounds, which tend to go black in pictures.

Stand back to capture candids. If you want to snap a shot of your child living in the moment (i.e. reading, playing, having fun with her friends), stand just outside the doorway or in another room to take the photo. Then you can zoom in and crop the photo to focus on your child. That way, she isn’t aware you’re there.

There’s nothing better than capturing your child’s genuine smile or catching him mid-laugh full of personality. So, Merians recommends making the experience more playful and less like a posed, portrait experience. Tickle your child, have her dance or jump to get the sillies flowing, play peekaboo, make silly noises (we guarantee fart sounds will unleash the giggles!), and tell jokes.

Live in the moment a little more.

Avoid taking photos in the middle of the day outside.

Give the camera to your child.

Digital cameras and smartphones are really sensitive to light, so taking photos in low-light situations (either earlier or later in the day) is better than at high noon or in broad light.

Keep the light on the subject’s face. “I’m forever watching people with their iPhones in a restaurant or at a party and they’re standing against the window taking a picture, and I know the photo isn’t going to be good,” says Merians, who has been a photographer for more than 30 years. That’s why she recommends treating the light in the environment like a flash—keeping the light behind you.

Look for light, simple backgrounds. While there is a time and place for photos in the latest Instagram pop-up, stick to clean, simple, and light backgrounds for classic

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

With social media, it’s (unfortunately) easy to compare yourself and what you’re doing with your kids to others’ curated feeds. Merians urges parents to occasionally put the camera down: “I think it’s important to be with your children and enjoy them and interact with them and capture moments—just not all the time.”

While you’re in an environment where your phone or camera is less likely to break if dropped (on carpeting) and your child is old enough, take a moment to teach him how to snap a photo of you. “It becomes a shared moment, a moment of education, and not all about what Mom and Dad want but letting the child have a voice and a vision as well,” Merians says. “They might find they enjoy having their picture taken that much more if they understand it.” And who knows, you might just have a budding photographer on your hands!

Be in more photos with your kids. Whether you’re on vacation or you’re doing something really cool with your child near home, ask someone in your vicinity to take a picture of you together. And if you see another parent snapping pics of their kids, volunteer to be their photographer.

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH SUMMER 2020 PROGRAM

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child? LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 40th annual program for gifted children. The summer program runs Monday to Friday from July 6 to July 30, 2020. The summer program is open to gifted children ages 2-8. The program expands students’ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

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 Teachers • 2-8 Week Program Program Certified Teachers • 2-8 Week Bayside • 718-229-3037 Visit us at: www.worldofdiscovery.org Bayside •• 718-229-3037 Bayside 718-229-3037 Visit us at: www.worldofdiscovery.org Visit us at: www.worldofdiscovery.org

INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

July 6 - July 30, 2020 For information call 516-299-2160 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth Now find us on Facebook

LIU Post • School of Professional Studies • 720 Northern Blvd. • Brookville, NY 11548-1300 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth • Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, Director

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT expires April 18

C on t u s to a c t v a c l a i s it s s! YMCA OF GREATER NEW YORK

SUMMER CAMP 2020 Over 70 camp locations in NYC and a sleepaway camp in upstate NY. Financial Assistance Available. Visit YMCAnyc.org/camp

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

QueensParent 39

health

Thumb Sucking 101 How to handle this common childhood habit—and tips to get your child to stop By Jaimie Seaton

f your baby or toddler is a dedicated thumb sucker, don’t worry— it’s perfectly normal. Rooting and sucking are natural reflexes for babies, and sucking a finger, thumb, or even a toe is comforting. In fact—as you may know from your ultrasound photos—many babies begin thumb sucking in the womb, and it’s not uncommon for children to continue the habit well past their toddler years.

Pros and Cons Babies will often turn to thumb sucking if they are unhappy, hungry, or tired. That’s a good thing; we want our children to learn to self-soothe. And a 2016 study published in the journal Pediatrics found that children who sucked their thumb or bit their nails were less likely to develop allergies. “Even when the habit lingers past infancy, thumb-sucking is rarely something to be concerned about. It doesn’t indicate that a child has emotional problems or that he will still be sucking his finger when he’s a teenager,” says Sabine Hack, M.D., assistant professor of psychiatry at New York University School of Medicine. However, after the age of 5, thumb sucking can be detrimental to mouth and teeth development, according to Larissa Davids, D.D.S., owner of Rego Park Orthodontics. And it can lead to bite problems, including an anterior open bite (the teeth not coming together correctly) or a cross bite, and speech impediments.

When and How to Intervene Most children stop sucking their thumb by the age of 3 or 4, or they’ll suck only in times of stress or when going to sleep. There’s no cause for concern until the adult teeth start coming in, at about the age of 6. If your child is still thumb sucking at 5 years, that’s the time to address the issue. The Mt. Sinai Hospital website cautions parents against scolding or punishing their child for thumb sucking. After all, she’s doing it because it’s soothing and comforting, and nagging may actually ingrain the habit. Instead, Dr. Davids recommends talking to your child about the issue. It may be he is embarrassed and will welcome your assistance. Take a loving, positive approach, offering praise when he doesn’t suck. Beyond giving positive reinforcement, there are various methods you can employ to help your child.

• P ut her down for a nap earlier than usual, when you first begin to see her getting sleepy. • Offer a stuffed animal as a substitute. • T alk to your child about his frustrations or fears and help identify triggers for thumb sucking. • Use gentle reminders. • Keep her hands busy with fun activities. • Don’t ever ridicule or shame him.

What About Pacifiers? Some parents use pacifiers to wean their children from their thumbs. There’s good and bad on this front, too. Pacifiers at naptime and bedtime can reduce the risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, according to Mt. Sinai’s website, because a pacifier might allow a baby’s airway to open further. It might also prevent her from falling into a deep sleep. (If the baby is breastfeeding, it’s best to wait until he’s 1 month old before giving him a pacifier.) Just as with the thumb, however, children may be attached to their “binky” long after they’ve left the nursery. Again, pacifiers can have a detrimental effect on oral development, so parents will want to break the habit by the time the child is 5, if not before. (Most children give up their pacifiers by 2 to 4 years old.)

When to Seek Professional Help Thumb sucking can be a difficult habit to break. If your child is resistant to your efforts, you may want to have your pediatrician or dentist speak to her, Dr. Davids says. Sometimes a message is better received when it doesn’t come from mom or dad. A medical professional can also advise you on using other methods, including putting a bandage or bitter nail polish on the thumb. If you choose the latter, be sure it’s a non-toxic substance that is safe for consumption. Above all, relax. If you’re stressed about your child’s thumb sucking, he will be too. Rest assured, she’ll eventually break the habit on her own.

Jaimie Seaton has been a journalist for more than 20 years and is the former Thailand correspondent for Newsweek. Her work on divorce, parenting, dating, and a wide range of topics has been featured in the Washington Post, the Guardian, Glamour, and numerous other publications.

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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

Over 100 Speakers

APRIL 28 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;MAY 1, 2020 WYNDHAM NEW YORKER HOTEL

17TH ANNUAL

To register go to: www.YoungChildExpo.com or call 212-787-9700, ext. 333

More than 80 Conference Sessions Full Day & Half Day Workshops 40 Exhibitors & Over 1000 Attendees

Early Bird & Group Discounts Available Presented by

Want to know the best

2020_YCE_NYMP_1.6th ad.v1.indd 1

Discover the power of family music-making. Astoria, Bayside, Forest Hills, and More

10/15/19 2:08 PM

activities for families? Subscribe to our family activity

email newsletter

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER QueensParent 41

social media

“You’re Canceled!” What you need to know about the current craze By Melissa Wickes

ver the last few years, “canceling” has come up within the world of celebrities—from the #TaylorSwiftisOverParty to Louis C.K.’s banishment. But what does this really mean? To cancel is to call out a behavior—an offensive remark or an unforgiveable action—and to reject the person responsible through blocking, unfollowing, and even verbally targeting on social media platforms, according to Lizzy Duffy, senior social strategist at Sparkloft Media, a social media creative agency. Unfortunately, cancel culture is no longer just for famous people. It has made its way into classrooms and teen peer groups. And now parents are concerned it’s affecting their kids.

When Kids Cancel When Logan Paul, a 24-year-old YouTuber with 20.2 million subscribers, published a video that included footage of a suicide victim, people banded together to “cancel” him, which in turn pressured not only YouTube but the advertisers and sponsors he worked with to take action against him. Paul was removed from Google’s Preferred, the company’s premier advertising platform, which prevented him from monetizing his YouTube videos. Teens and kids are now applying this practice to their peer groups, Duffy says. While the phrase “you’re canceled” can be a joke between friends, some teens are actually boycotting classmates, and sometimes over a personal opinion. “All the friends I had through middle school completely cut me off,” a high schooler nicknamed “L” told The New York Times. “Ignored me, blocked me on everything, would not look at me.” When L asked a former friend why she had been isolated, she was told she was “a mooch, annoying and petty, and an emotional leech who was thirsty for validation.” When to cancel someone is an arbitrary and personal decision. As Arielle Rokhsar, a junior at The Wheatley School in Old Westbury, explains: “There is no definite line between what actions allow for one to be canceled and for one to be spared, it all depends on how the audience interprets it.” And values are constantly evolving. Ali Bhalloo, Arielle’s classmate, argues the “views that we have today may be considered wrong in the future. Opinions change with time. In my opinion, it is crucial that we cancel cancel culture.”

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Psychological Impact Like bullying, canceling can lead to kids being isolated and ostracized, says Rebecca Sinclair, Ph.D., child and adolescent psychologist and director of psychological services at Brooklyn Minds, a mental health practice with locations in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Manhasset. “Children and adolescents are much more vulnerable than adults, and isolation can affect depressive moods, anxiety, impulsive behavior, and use of substances.” Plus, cancelation can make individuals afraid to stand up for themselves or voice an opinion, says Alexandra Hamlet, Psy.D., clinical psychologist in the Mood Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute, a nonprofit that helps children and families with mental health and learning disorders. She says that while there are instances when avoidance can be appropriate—such as when someone is racist or harassing—it’s always better to first have a discussion with the individual and help him understand that what was said is not okay. “A question that should be asked is, ‘does the person really deserve the removal of support in such a reactive way for saying one thing that might have been disagreed with?’” Dr. Hamlet says.

The Fine Line A community that unites against someone who has done something unforgivable can be empowering. It can also make kids think twice before posting or announcing potentially offensive views. But there’s a negative too. “It’s balancing this fine line because we want to give our youth and teens the opportunity and power to call [them] out when there are issues in teen behavior,” Dr. Sinclair points out. “The issue is, [cancelation] doesn’t leave opportunity for improvement.” People—especially kids—make mistakes. Kids have not had as many experiences to learn from as adults have. Learning from failures allows adolescents to build up social skills, develop a sense of self, and develop a sense of relationships, Dr. Sinclair says. In 2019, President Barack Obama disparaged the concept of canceling someone in an interview about youth activism. “The world is messy. There are ambiguities,” he said. “People who do really good stuff have flaws. People who you are fighting may love their kids and share certain things with you.”

openHOUSES

CK KIDS Middle Village ctkny.org

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum intrepidmuseum.org

Soccer Kids NYC Multiple locations in Queens soccerkidsnyc.com l

The Lanyard Ladies thelanyardladies.com

135-25 79th St., Howard Beach 718-392-3405 owncs.org/own2 admissions@owncs.org Visit us to learn about our great school. Tour dates: Monday, March 9 at 2pm, Thursday, March 19 at 4pm, or Saturday, March 28 at 1pm.

Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp

P.S. 376, 210-21 48th Ave., Bayside 718-684-1187 PS 219, 144-39 Gravett Road, Flushing uecamps.com Please join us for open house events we will be hosting on Saturday, March 21 in Bayside at PS 376 from 1-2pm and on Tuesday, March 31 in Flushing at PS 219 from 6-7pm.

l l

Our World Neighborhood Charter School 2

Social Play Haus Plainview socialplayhaus.com

musictogetherwithmusicandme.com

Accomodate Dietary Restrictions

Goodie Bags

216-15 Peck Ave., Bayside 718-634-8109 magicdaycamp.com See what our camp has to offer at our open house events on Sundays, March 8 and 22 from 12-3pm at Jib Lanes.

Laser Bounce Glendale laserbounce.com Music Together With Music and Me Serving Greater Queens

Magic Day Camp

Bring Your Own Food

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.

Food & Cake

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp

Plates, Cups, & Utensils

Invites & Thank You Notes

Private Party Room

American Dance and Drama Fresh Meadows and Middle Village americandanceanddrama.net Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Flushing Meadows Corona Park ntc.usta.com Celebrations in the Kitchen Hicksville celebrationsinthekitchen.com

Entertainment

Party Central

Party Place

Like any other difficult conversation with your adolescent, it is important to understand where your child is coming from. “Cancel culture might make the parent really uncomfortable and alert them in a hyper-vigilant way, but it is important to hear from the kids what their emotion and experience is, whether it’s worry, sadness, or anger,” Dr. Sinclair says. “There can be a difference between validating a child’s emotion and agreeing with their behaviors. You can validate how frustrated they are and how confused they are without agreeing that canceling someone is the right thing.” Also, as Duffy points out, cancel culture makes it difficult for adolescents to have transparent conversations about things they disagree about, which is an important life skill. Dr. Hamlet suggests parents focus on teaching their child what it means to understand someone else’s point of view and that settling differences doesn’t have to mean blocking someone out of your life or unfollowing them on social media.

5945 Strickland Ave., Brooklyn 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Attend an open house on March 15 or 29 from 11am-1pm. Bring the whole family for a personal tour and discussion of the camp program for children entering pre-K through ninth grade.

Atendee Parents Can Stay

What is the parent’s role?

Mill Basin Day Camp

Set Up & Clean Up

138-46 Northern Blvd., Flushing 718-551-9375 Frankie Carlucci, senior director, youth and family ymcanyc.org/locations/flushing-ymca/programs-classes/camps fcarlucci@ymcanyc.org The Flushing YMCA is bigger and better this year! Please join us for an open house on Saturday, March 21 or Saturday, April 18 from 10am-3pm.

Changing Tables in Bathrooms

Flushing YMCA

Accessible/ Sensory-Friendly

And kids are often not told they’ve been canceled, or the reason behind it. A confrontation would at least provide them with an opportunity to apologize, learn, and grow, Duffy says. Dr. Sinclair also points out that the confusion caused by social isolation often causes teens to become defensive and cling onto the opinion or belief that led to the cancellation in the first place.

l l

QueensParent 43

Professional Services 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: 646-726-8332 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 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 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

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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

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: 516-216-1791 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.

Lisa Macbeth, Financial Advisor

7 Hanover Square, Suite 800 212-764-6262 x-2820 mobile: 646-726-8332 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.

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

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/NEWSLETTER ad index

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 All Star Studio................................................. 27

birthday / party services American Dance & Drama .............................. 14 Christ the King Continuing Education ............ 27 Mommy Music & Me Inc. ............................... 41 Music Together LLC ........................................ 39 Soccer Kids NYC .............................................. 3 USTA BJK National Tennis Center ................... 23

camps All Star Studio................................................. 27 American Dance & Drama .............................. 14 Beautiful Minds Childcare .............................. 28 Beth Sholom Day Camp ................................. 28 Christ the King Continuing Education ............ 27 Countryside Montessori School ...................... 28 Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp .................. 25 Hofstra Summer Camps ................................... 7 iD Tech Camps ............................................... 15 Kew Forest School (the) ................................. 13 Kon Gen International Preschool .................... 19 LIU Center for Gifted Youth ........................... 39 Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48 Mill Basin Day Camp ...................................... 20 Mommy Music & Me Inc. ............................... 41 Music Together LLC ........................................ 39 Oasis Children Services ..................................... 2 Sam’s Camp and Swim Club at Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center................................ 21 School of Rock - Queens ................................ 21 Soccer Kids NYC .............................................. 3 Superkicker Sports Corporation ...................... 27 The Secret Theatre ......................................... 17 Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp .............. 33 USTA BJK National Tennis Center ................... 23 Windsor School (The) ..................................... 23 World of Discovery Camp .............................. 39

YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 39 YMCA of Greater New York - Flushing ........... 25 Young People’s Day Camps - Queens ............. 47

child care / day care Beautiful Minds Childcare .............................. 28 Kon Gen International Preschool .................... 19

classes LIU Center for Gifted Youth ........................... 39 YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 39

dance All Star Studio................................................. 27 American Dance & Drama .............................. 14 The Secret Theatre ......................................... 17 YMCA of Greater New York - Flushing ........... 25

developmental

music Mommy Music & Me Inc. ............................... 41 Music Together LLC ........................................ 39 School of Rock - Queens ................................ 21 The Secret Theatre ......................................... 17

performing arts / acting American Dance & Drama .............................. 14 Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp .................. 25 Kew Forest School (the) ................................. 13 Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48 The Secret Theatre ......................................... 17 Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp .............. 33

religious Catholic Diocese Brooklyn .............................. 41

special events

Comprehensive Consultation Psychological ...... 5 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......... 28

Young Child Expo .......................................... 41

education

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......... 28 Young Child Expo .......................................... 41

Beautiful Minds Childcare .............................. 28 Catholic Diocese Brooklyn .............................. 41 Comprehensive Consultation Psychological ...... 5 Countryside Montessori School ...................... 28 Kon Gen International Preschool .................... 19 LIU Center for Gifted Youth ........................... 39 Our World Neighborhood School ..................... 8 Windsor School (The) ..................................... 23

fitness Superkicker Sports Corporation ...................... 27 YMCA of Greater New York - Flushing ........... 25

health Competent Care ........................................... 13 Comprehensive Consultation Psychological ...... 5 Emanuel Mizrahi DDS PC Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates ...................................................... 15

special needs

sports Christ the King Continuing Education ............ 27 Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp .................. 25 Kew Forest School (the) ................................. 13 Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48 Sam’s Camp and Swim Club at Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center................................ 21 Soccer Kids NYC .............................................. 3 Superkicker Sports Corporation ...................... 27 Ultimate Enrichment Summer Camp .............. 33 USTA BJK National Tennis Center ................... 23 YMCA of Greater New York ........................... 39 YMCA of Greater New York - Flushing ........... 25

tutors Windsor School (The) ..................................... 23

QueensParent 45

last word

What is your darkest parenting secret?

“I have lost track of how much I have been drinking in the evenings when I’m home alone with my kids, and I realized I shouldn’t drive if there is an emergency.” —Carol Davis, Manhattan

“I sometimes pretend I’m going to a meeting when I hire a babysitter and then I just drive around and sit in my car—just to get away for a while.” —Brent Minsky, Queens Whenever my twin toddlers are having ‘a moment,’ I sit on the floor and start practicing yoga breathing exercises in front of them. This is something I really started doing to help myself get through the moment, but it actually works in reverse and helps calm and center them too.” —Lauren Carasso (@LaurenCarasso), Westchester

“My almost-4-year-old was not feeling well over the weekend, and while I hate to see my baby sick, I secretly love that she ‘needs’ me again, and will curl up, cuddle, and fall asleep in my arms.”

kle “After I buc their my kids in car seats, I at treasure th t, small, quie lk carefree wa car around the to the front ea seat. It’s lik on.” mini vacati

“When I play catch

with my son, and he drops a few easy balls, I begin quietly muttering things like, ‘Holy crap that is just terrible’ or ‘Wow you really can’t catch, can you?’ ‘Nice try!’ I yell.” —Michael Moshan, Westchester

“

thington —Andrea Wor Westchester t), ha tc (@babygo

”

—Brook Gesser, Brooklyn

—Kathleen Hurley (@letsbemomfriends), Long Island

Connect with us

facebook.com/nymetroparents

March 2020 | nymetroparents.com

I have tried, on multiple occasions throughout the years, to convince my principled vegetarian daughter to just drop it already and start eating meat again.

@nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

*Based on an 8 Week Program

Boys & Girls, 4-15 • 2-8 Week Programs • Operated by Licensed Teachers & Administrators • All Union Rates Accepted • Weekly Field Trips • Sports, Arts & Crafts • Swim Lessons And Much, MUCH MORE!

SATURDAY, MARCH 21ST • 2PM TO 4PM Jib Lanes 67-19 Parsons Blvd. • Flushing, NY • 11365

Call Now for Pre-Season Rates: 347-801-2375 •• ypdc.com ypdc.com

Mag Day Magic Camp

WE ACCEPT G PARTICIPATIN S UNION

PAYM E PLAN NT AVAI S LABL E

” ! l a c i g a M s i y a D “Where Every 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

OPEENN HHOOUUSE EVENT SE EVENT:: S u n Sunday, Fedbaruy,ary 16th March 8th and 22nd 12 - 3pm Early rly Drop Off an and Extended Day 12-3pm a t LICENSED PROFESSIONAL SUPERVISION at JJib ib LLaanneess Convenient Bayside Location Children Ages 4 to 15

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

Queens Parent March 2020

Articles inside

Pic Tips

Thumb Sucking 101

You’re Canceled