Queens Parent April 2017

QueensParent APRIL 2017

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Party-Planning Green Your Kid’s Room Tips for Earth Day 7

FAMILY EVENT LIST

Timeline

Organize the perfect birthday for your child

SpecialParent

Amazing Accomplishments

• A Cookbook by a Boy with Autism • How Music Lessons Helped My Son LISTA DE EVENTOS FAMILIARES

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NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

April 2017 ››

26

Features

18 The Ultimate Party-Planning Timeline Give your kids the birthday of their dreams— without driving yourself crazy 20 Detox the Toy Box Simple steps to reduce your kids’ exposure to environmental hazards

20

24 Mindful Games Two activities to help kids practice mindfulness 26 Chasing His Dreams How a teen with autism overcame his food aversions to create a cooking show and cookbook 30 15 Questions to Ask When Looking for a Special Needs Tutor Advice to find the right one

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24

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 12 NYMP Q&A: Nicole Feliciano talks about being a “mom boss.”

66 Voices: How music lessons helped a child with autism and sensory processing disorder

Fun & Activities 14 16 17 33 35 50

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

Directories

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52 61 62 63 64 64 65

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

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

by Appaman (appaman.com)

››

ON THE COVER ›› 18 Party-Planning Timeline 20 Green Your Kids Room

facebook.com/nymetroparents

DIY Corner: Stitching Stars Media Matters: What to Watch for Earth Day Your Child Can Be IN the Circus!

Outing: Minnewaska State Park Family Activities Calendar Where-To Guide: Minor League Baseball

26 A Cookbook by a Boy with Autism

66 How Music Lessons Helped My Son

@NYMetroParents

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

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APRIL 2017 • Vol22• No.10

EDITOR’S NOTE

Creative Pursuits

by Amazing Kids

M

y oldest daughter has recently gotten very interested in baking and cooking. She’s progressed quickly from brownie mix with lots of help from an adult to cookies from scratch, on her own (except for putting them in or taking them out of the oven, which we insist a grown-up still do). She follows recipes carefully, and while she occasionally expresses ideas for her own creations, she hasn’t ventured there yet. So I was fascinated to read about another young person who has his own YouTube cooking show and recently published a cookbook of his own recipes—impressive for any teen, but even more so for Chase Bailey, who has autism. As part of our Autism Awareness Month coverage, read an interview with Chase and try out some recipes from The Official Chase ‘N Yur Face Cookbook (p. 26).

Chase isn’t the only super-impressive young person with special needs you’ll meet in this issue.

For our Voices column (p. 66), Manhattan mom Michaela Searfoorce shares how her son James was transformed by music lessons, even participating in performances he previously would not have even been able to attend. And did you catch the beautiful photo of Ryan on our cover? The 14-year-old Queens resident was one of the finalists in our Kids’ Cover Contest last year. His mom captioned the photo she submitted: “I have autism but it doesn’t have me.” Meeting Ryan in person at our photo shoot, I realized how perfect that statement is.

On a related note, this year’s Kids’ Cover Contest launches April 24. Go to nymetroparents.com/cover then to enter for a chance to see your child on our magazine cover. In the meantime, we have a unique opportunity for you to win a walk-on role for your child in Circus 1903 at the Theater at Madison Square Garden! Enter at nymetroparents.com/circus for this amazing chance to see your kid pulled onstage during a performance.

Whether you hold your child’s birthday party at the circus or you’re more of a low-key athome party kind of family, planning our kids’ parties is an essential part to today’s parenting job description. Some parents enjoy and look forward to this, but I know my wife and I are not alone in feeling the pressure of our kids’ expectations and the difficulties of fitting party planning into our already busy lives. If you’re like us, you’ll want to check out our timeline for birthday planning (p. 18), so you can get organized and de-stress the process.

April brings us Earth Day, our annual reminder of what we should be doing year-round to ensure our kids inherit a healthier, safer planet. If you’re looking to live greener, how about starting right at home, with your kids’ bedrooms or playrooms? Emma Steven explores some of the environmental dangers lurking in household items and offers pointers on how to eliminate them (p. 20).

Of course, this month also brings Easter and Passover. Wishing a happy holiday to all of you celebrating, and a healthy, fun spring to everyone!

Michael Kress Editorial Director, NYMetroParents

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

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

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

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

ACCOUNTING

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MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

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

Davler Media Group CEO: David L. Miller

We’re Looking for Great Writing—By Your Kids!

Does your child have a great story to tell about something that’s happened in her life? A strong opinion about an issue affecting him? An exploration of overcoming obstacles and achieving her dreams?

NYMetroParents is seeking essay submissions from local tweens and teens—and the best ones may be published online or in a future issue of this magazine!

Essays can be about virtually any topic of relevance to local children and families, but should be written entirely by your child, with minimal help from Mom and Dad. Submissions should be 600-800 words.

Parents should email their child’s submission to nympwriter@nymetroparents.com. Be sure to let us know how old your child is and where you live.

And remember: We’re also always on the lookout for great personal essays from moms and dads in our area! Submit your best take on life as a New York metro-area parent to the same email address above.

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 nymetroparents.com davlermedia.com nybarbatmitzvah.com

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN PARENT, FAIRFIELD PARENT and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2017, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

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Who: The DanceSource What’s New: Arts Dance Music Camp, created through a partnership with Varta Academy of Musical Arts, to debut in Rego Park this summer.

The camp will offer different styles in the arts (drawing, painting), dance (salsa, hop-hop), and music (guitar, musical theater) disciplines for children ages 5-18.

“Our Arts Dance Music Camp will be about diversification, incorporating all people of all artistic crafts, and exposing all camp attendees [to those crafts],” says Dianna Petty, owner of The DanceSource.

Varta Tchakarian, founder and director of Varta Academy of Musical Arts, will develop all music activities.

Want More Info: The DanceSource, 98-11 Queens Blvd., Rego Park; 718-997-1278; dancesource.net. Varta Academy of Musical Arts, 97-15 64th Road, Rego Park; 718-275-2725; vartamusic.com

Courtesy The DanceSource and Arts Dance Music Camp

Dance and Music School Partnership Creates Artistic Camp

School-aged children can attend all or part of the artistic camp’s sevenweek program.

Who: Sappo School What’s New: Performing arts, music, and visual arts programs; AP courses; CrossFit conditioning workshops; and tablets for all students—all beginning in September.

Private music lessons in various instruments, including piano, guitar, and ukulele, and a dance program taught by a former Rockette and Broadway alumnus will be added to the performing arts programming.

The private school will offer Art, History, and Earth Science AP courses, which “will allow students to experience college-level courses within the supportive environment of our school,” says Michelle Bowers, admissions director.

In addition, Project Lead the Way, a STEM-focused program currently offered in high school, will be expanded into the lower grades.

Want More Info: Suffolk County, Long Island; 631-736-2146; sapposchool.com; facebook.com/sapposchool

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Sappo School

Suffolk County Private School to Expand Class Offerings and In-House Programs

Sappo School’s Tailored Learning approach, and emphasis on the arts, foster success of students with disabilities and general education students.

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UOTABLES That first baby learning curve is steep, and there is no way to relax when, for the first time ever, you are responsible for something as huge as a human life with the tiniest toes you’ve ever seen.

—Jill Krause, in a post entitled “if i knew then what i know now,” on her blog babyrabies.com

in an instagram Rainy day women portrait mode?!)

(also anyone else obsessed with the #iPhone

(Posted by @augustabelle, aka Belle Augusta Savransky, an East Village mom and photographer whose website is belleaugusta.com)

A SPECIAL MILESTONE

in an instagram She’ll be taking herself to school before I know it.

#igotthismom

(Posted by @chanynck, aka Chanyn Cheree Kirtman, who blogs at styliststandpoint.com)

“I know many moms have a hard time finding their footing in the career world after they have kids. I’ve already gotten over the fact that I’m not meant to be just a mom. It’s a beautiful life, it’s an unforgiving life and it’s not the life I want. I don’t feel sorry about it. Mama wants a career, kids. Sorry not sorry.

—Brittany Minor, in a post entitled “Where the Hell did My 5-Year Plan Go?!” on mom.me

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

“The museum combines the history of cacao and chocolate with hands-on activities to make your own chocolate, and, the best part—chocolate tastings. The kids may want to breeze through the historical part of the museum, but it is definitely worth bringing them to try samples, play in the kids’ area, and make their own chocolate.”

—Samantha Neudorf in an article entitled “A Look Into New York City’s First-Ever Chocolate Museum” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/chocolate-museum.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: FUN IN SPRING: Download a free guide to the top Spring activities in the New York area (nymetroparents.com/spring-activities).

PLAN YOUR CHILD’S SUMMER: Find the perfect camp at nymetroparents.com/camp-finder.

HOPPIN’ GOOD TIME: Find local Easter events at nymetroparents.com/easter-nyc.

MAKE YOUR OWN MATZAH: A Passover activity for the whole family (nymetroparents.com/matzah).

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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icole Feliciano is the founder of Momtrends.com, which offers trends and tips for moms who want to live a fashionable life. Her book Mom Boss: Balancing Entrepreneurship, Kids & Success was recently published.

What is a “mom boss”? There are some women who really want to create a brand and do something like I have. If you’re looking to take a skill you’ve already got—say you’re a lawyer or you’re a consultant and you want to start up on your own— my tip would be to start getting some freelance clients before you quit your day job and see what it’s like, see what those hours turn out to be, how much money are you making per hour, could you live off of that salary if you project out what that’s going to look like in six or 12 months. But really focus on, “Where is my income going to come from and how is this going to affect my family life?” It’s a unique proposal when you’re a mom boss because I think a lot of entrepreneurs start and all they need is a great idea and the time and energy to throw into it. When you’re a mom entrepreneur you also have to factor in where your family is going to fit. You can’t work around-theclock when you’ve got young kids at home.

Why do you think so many women, especially moms, are turning to entrepreneurship? I think it’s the deaf ears of corporations and the lack of flexibility in the workspace. So many of the women I spoke to said they just got so tired of asking for permission or for missing out on the moments of childhood and parenting that they were so invested in. A lot of women invest a lot of time and energy into their careers and then when they finally have kids they want to be super present; they’ve waited so long for this moment to happen and they don’t want to miss their memories. And workplaces have not flexed to accommodate the needs of working mothers. And mom boss life allows you to grow at the pace that you want to grow. When my kids were little, I was just kind of keeping the business small, and then as they’ve gotten older I’ve been able to ramp it up, and I’ve got more bandwidth to take on work projects, [so] I’ve been able to grow it at my pace.

What advice do you have for moms who want to start their own business? I would definitely suggest making a one-year map for yourself. And that’s going to have the profitability. Where is that going to come from? I think a lot of women figure out products that are sellable that people will be attracted to buy but they don’t build in all of the expenses that go into marketing and building this product. So I’d love to see women spend more time and effort or get a coach or do networking where they can find a business partner who can walk them through the actual expenses of a business.

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DIY CORNER MATH FUN

Stitching Stars

Sometimes equations are too hard to solve, even for professionals! For these problems, people invent methods that are easy to compute and approximate the solution. This branch of mathematics is called Numerical Analysis. These numerical algorithms are usually done on a computer, and by doing more calculations you can make your approximate solution as good as you need. Curve stitching is a way to approximate a curve by drawing only straight lines, without any computation needed.

The closer you draw the lines together, the better the approximation to the curve you make. We can use the same technique to make a variety of curves and shapes that can be turned into beautiful art.

Materials Pencil and eraser Manila folder or very lightweight cardboard Ruler Pushpin

Corrugated cardboard or a bath towel Scissors Thread (embroidery thread, yarn, or other thick thread) Blunt needle

Stitch a Star 1. Using a pencil, lightly draw two lines in the shape of a plus sign on your manila folder. (Don’t press too hard; you’re going to erase them later.) Using your ruler, make even marks from the center point and moving outward along each line.

2. Using the pushpin, carefully poke a hole at each mark on your folder. This is easier to do if you put your folder over something that you can push pins into safely, such as a piece of corrugated cardboard or a thick, folded towel.

3. Lightly number two of the lines as shown (fig. 2).

4. Cut a piece of thread about the length of your arm and thread it onto your needle.

5. Starting from the back of your folder, push the needle through the hole you labeled No. 1. That is at the tip of your star. As you pull the thread through the hole, stop when there are a few inches still sticking through and tape the end of the thread down on the back of the folder very securely. Tug on the thread a little to make sure it won’t slip through.

Fig. 2: Lightly number two of the lines.

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Fig. 4: Make a short stitch through the back of hole No. 2. From the front, connect the two No. 2 holes with another long stitch.

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

6. Your needle should be on the front side of your folder now. Push the needle down through the other hole marked No. 1 to make a long stitch. Your thread should connect the two dots.

7. Starting on the backside of your folder again, push the needle through the hole right next to it, which should be hole No. 2, making a short stitch. Then, from the front side, you can make another long stitch to connect both No. 2 holes (fig. 4).

8. Continue like this for the rest of the holes. You should have long stitches on the front side of your folder, and short stitches on the back. When you run out of thread, tape the end down on the back of your folder, cut another piece of thread, thread your needle, and keep going! When you’ve finished your curve, tape the end of the thread on the back of the folder and trim any long ends (fig. 5).

9. S titch the other three parabolas in the same way to finish your four-pointed star! You can number the other axes if you need to. Experiment with using different colors for your lines (fig. 6).

10. Gently erase any visible pencil marks.

Excerpted from Math Lab for Kids by Rebecca Rapoport and J.A. Yoder with permission of Quarry Books

Fig. 5: Continue like this for the rest of the holes.

Fig. 6: Stitch the other three parabolas in the same way.

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Media Matters: Movies & TV Shows

One Big Ocean (PBS)

Recommended age: 3+ H

Featuring biodiversity, environ

What to Watch for Earth Day

HHH

mental concerns in marine

Dr. Seuss: The Lorax (DVD, Stre

Recommended age: 5+

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Planet Earth II (BBC America)

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nature

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Chasing Ice (DVD, Streaming)

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In Theaters April 7: Smurfs: The Lost Village Parents need to know that Smurfs: The Lost Village is an animated comedy that—unlike The Smurfs and The Smurfs 2—doesn’t appear to have any live-action characters. Instead, this movie focuses solely on the Smurf world, where Smurfette (voiced by Demi Lovato), the only female Smurf in the whole village, struggles to find her purpose. She decides to set off on a quest into the Forbidden Forest to find the legendary Lost Village, accompanied by three other Smurfs—Clumsy (Jack McBrayer), Brainy (Danny Pudi), and Hefty (Joe Manganiello). Expect plenty of comic peril thanks to evil wizard Gargamel (Rainn Wilson), plus plenty of potty humor. But kids love these tiny blue people, and parents who liked the original Smurfs animated series may enjoy watching this movie with them.

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

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Jim Lee

SWEEPSTAKES

Your Child Can Be IN the Circus! ›› Enter for a chance to win a unique opportunity to see your kid on stage.

N

YMetroParents has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for one lucky child to have a part in an upcoming performance of Circus 1903 at the Theater at Madison Square Garden! The winner’s family will be sitting in premier seats while your child is invited to join the performers on stage. Kids dream about being in the circus—now yours may have a chance to make that dream come true!

Go to nymetroparents.com/circus to enter.

The Grand Prize winner’s celebrity moment will take place at the 6pm performance on Saturday, April 15, and the winner will receive four free premium tickets to the show. In addition, two second-prize winners will each receive a family four-pack of tickets to a Circus 1903 show in April.

Enter today to for a chance to win this unique opportunity to make a memory that will last forever. There is no charge for entry; simply fill out the form at nymetroparents.com/circus.

A brand-new show, Circus 1903 is the circus reimagined—more than two hours of edge-of-your-seat entertainment with an incredible cast of the most unique, spellbinding, and dangerous circus acts from all four corners of the globe. Sensational puppetry puts elephants back in the ring as never seen before while Ringmaster Willy Whipsnade takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the magic of the circus. *No purchase necessary. Open to individuals who are at least 18 years of age, a legal resident of, and located within, 100 miles of New York City at the time of entry, who are the parent or legal guardian of a child born between April 12, 2005, and March 21, 2012. Ends 11:59pm ET April 11, 2017. Must be available to attend 6pm performance on April 15, 2017 if Grand Prize winner. Void outside stated area and where prohibited. See Official Rules for complete details.

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The Ultimate Party-Planning Timeline ›› How to give your kids the birthday of their dreams—without driving yourself crazy in the process By Bethany Braun-Silva

K

ids may look forward to their birthday parties all year long, but let’s face it: For many of us, planning that party can be stressful, yet another project in our already hectic lives. It can feel overwhelming even before you consider kids’ high expectations for the perfect birthday. But don’t panic— we are here to help! To keep you organized, here’s a timeline of everything you need to make the planning process run smoothly, whether you are hosting the party at home or at one of the many local birthday party places. From when to book the venue to when to buy supplies (hint, not as early as you may think!), we’ve got you covered.

Six Months Prior

This might seem like a very long time in advance to start planning your child’s birthday party, but if you’re thinking of doing it at a party venue, it can book up fast. Now is the time to start getting an idea of what your child wants, including themes, places, and the size of the guest list. It wouldn’t hurt to start calling possible venues about availability.

Three Months Prior

Book the venue! Better to be safe than sorry.

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Start thinking about a theme. If your child is old enough, discuss it with him. You can start putting together a Pinterest board to collect all of your ideas and inspiration. This is also a great way to get the birthday boy or girl involved, says Seri Kertzner, owner of Little Miss Party Planner, a party planning service in New York City and the Hamptons. “Kids love talking and planning for a specific theme especially when it comes to the look of the cake,” she says. “Let your little one help you sketch a picture of the cake to show your bakery.”

Do you want entertainment at your child’s party? Now is the time to start thinking about booking clowns, magicians, or any characters that will make an appearance. Be sure to ask all entertainers about set-up requirements and backups in case they are sick.

Two Months Prior

Confirm the date with the venue and go over the details. Be sure to find out what they will they be providing in the way of food, cake, decorations, and favors. Pick menu items and décor and make a list of anything additional you will need to buy or prepare. Make arrangements to get whatever is not provided by the venue.

This is also a good time to start thinking about the guest list.

If your child’s in school, there might be a policy in which all children in her class must be invited. If not, decide on the size of the party and be sure to keep your budget in mind. Many venues offer parties for 10-12 kids and can charge a hefty price for additional guests.

One Month Prior

Mail (or email) invitations and make sure they have a clear RSVP date. This is also another prime opportunity to get your child involved. The experts at MarthaStewart.com suggest, “Have him or her draw on paper (or a blank puzzle) and color in the designs, cut out pictures to glue onto blank invitations, or put stickers on cards.”

Make sure you line up help for the day of the party. Confirm that a babysitter, close friend, or relative will be on hand to help in whatever way you need.

Start shopping for supplies. “You don’t want to shop too far in advance for kids ages 3-6 years old—that may be too early,” says Marla Mase, owner of Party Poopers, a party planning company in NYC. “Remember, kids change their minds a lot— and what they liked three months ago may be very different than what they like today.”

Two Weeks Prior

Order the cake if you don’t plan on baking it yourself. And if you are baking it yourself, check the recipe, make your shopping list, and get the necessary ingredients.

snacks, and movies, and you’re set if you find you need to make a last-minute change,” Kertzner says.

The Day of the Party

Deep breaths! Hopefully, you have planned far enough ahead to only need to take care of a few minor details and do prep work on the big day. Here are some things to consider: • Get the house ready for the big day.

• Decorate, set the table, prepare activities, and confirm with entertainment that morning.

• Bake or pick up the cake.

• Know where the candles and matches are.

• Set up the food.

• Clear a table for presents.

• Make sure to have a pad and pen on hand when you open presents to record who gave what.

Finally, “Be relaxed!” Kertzner says. “The most important thing is for your kids to have a good time. If you chose a good venue they will take care of every detail so you can be a guest and enjoy your child’s party.”

Several Days After

Write thank you notes. Have your child assist you in thanking her guests for coming to her party. Younger kids can dictate their message to you or draw a picture on the notes; older kids can sign their names, while those who can write their own notes should do so themselves.

If the party is at home, start thinking of games and activities for the children to play. There are plenty of online resources with ideas, and be sure to ask your child because he may have a very specific idea of what he wants to do at the party.

One Week Prior

The party is getting close! This is the time to start tying up loose ends and confirming all details are correct.

Follow up on any unanswered invitations.

Prepare the goodie bags. You’ll need the bags themselves, of course, and the contents to go in them. And remember, you can give small games, pencils and erasers, or even small books in addition to, or instead of, candy, to cut down on the sugar.

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Make sure you have enough storage on your phone for pictures. Time to make some tough decisions! But better than being caught without a camera available at the party.

Get the space ready. If you are having the party at home, now is a time to clean, clear space, and move valuables and breakable things out of the way.

If the party is not at home, confirm the timeline with your venue. What is the order of activities? When should the food arrive? And so on.

Have a back-up plan. “If you’re hosting a party outdoors you must have a back-up plan, including a space indoors. Check the weather and two days out make your call. Board games,

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Detox the Toy Box

››

Simple steps to reduce your kids’ exposure to environmental hazards where they sleep and play By Emma Steven

T

he majority of Americans have at least 300 different environmental chemicals in their blood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These include flame retardants in crib mattresses, formaldehyde in furniture, bisphenol A (BPA) in food, and phthalates in toys and toiletries; it’s enough to make even the most laid back parent anxious.

Feeling overwhelmed? Here are some simple things you can do to help green your home, starting with kids’ rooms and playrooms.

Reality Check

The most common dangers at home are lead, pesticides, flame retardants, endocrine disruptors, cleaning products, and air pollutants. Before you start freaking out, give yourself a break— you can’t possibly stop your children from coming into contact with these chemicals completely. “I know that feeling of being the frontline of protection for your family, and it’s exhausting,” says Sonya Lunder, senior analyst at the nonprofit Environmental Working Group. “It’s not possible, and it’s not necessary.”

Beware of Lead Paint

If your home was built before 1978, have it inspected for lead paint. Dust and flakes are dangerous to children, who breathe in more than adults and put their hands in their mouths a lot. Make 20

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

sure any renovations are properly sealed, and check paint regularly for chips. Vacuum and wipe down surfaces weekly, using a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. My son’s lead levels became elevated last year after a workman scraped off lead paint from a door in his room without taking precautions.

Don’t Use Bug Treatments

A 2015 study found that use of household insecticides was connected to increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma in kids.

Look for natural ways of controlling pests, such as blocking off access and vacuuming regularly. Never use pesticides in children’s rooms, and if you have to use them on your pets, keep them away from your kids and high-traffic areas for at least 24 hours.

A Safe Night’s Sleep

“The one thing you should do in your kid’s room is buy a new non-toxic mattress,” says Maia James, founder of the website Gimme The Good Stuff and a healthy home consultant. Many conventional mattresses are made from petroleum-based polyurethane foam covered with vinyl containing phthalates and sprayed with flame retardants. All of these things off-gas while your child is asleep. Don’t use hand-me-downs; mattresses made before 2005 may contain polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs),

highly toxic fire retardants that are now banned.

There are lots of manufacturers who now make mattresses without flame retardants, and if you want to go even further, buy one made of natural materials such as cotton and wool and that has been certified by an independent body such as GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex. Don’t use pillows or changing pads that contain foam; replace them with organic wool or cotton instead. Finally, make sure you wash any new bedding, as lots of textiles are processed with dyes and formaldehyde.

Beds, Dressers, and More

When buying kids’ furniture, the best choice is solid wood rubbed with oil and made with non-toxic glues. However this isn’t an option for everyone due to budget or decor. The biggest dangers are flame retardants in foam and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde from composite wood, paint, furniture glue, and varnishes. The good news is that all furniture is becoming safer, thanks to laws that limit off-gassing. Look for brands with low emission standards such as California Air Resources Board (CARB or European equivalents) and foam without flame retardants. Avoid products with stain- or water-resistant finishes, which can contain perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs). There are lowor no-VOC paints and varnishes available, and if you have already renovated you can buy sealants to stop off-gasing.

Get a Wool Rug

Choose solid wood floors and natural flooring, as some carpets and their glues can off-gas formaldehyde and acetone. Avoid vinyl tiles (which can contain phthalates) and don’t forget rugs. “One

simple thing I tell people to do is get a wool rug,” James says.

Studies have shown that wool flooring absorbs formaldehyde and nitrogen, making it a great choice for kids’ rooms.

Use Air-Cleaning Plants

Put a spider plant or peace lily on your kid’s dresser—not only will it look good, it will also improve the air quality. “Houseplants are surprisingly effective,” James says. In 1989, NASA conducted a now-famous study that revealed many common houseplants were able to filter VOCs such as formaldehyde, ammonia, and benzene.

Swap Plastic Toys for Natural Materials

The good news is you don’t have to throw away all of your kids plastic toys, Lunder says. “The really toxic phthalates have been banned from kids’ toys, and plastics are pretty hard to avoid,” she explains. “It’s nice to minimize plastic, but it’s almost impossible to avoid.” Some plastics are marked with a recycling symbol and a number, to tell you what sort of plastic they are; avoid anything marked with a “3” or made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC (such as beach balls), as these often have phthalates in them. Get rid of soft plastic bath toys and books, and don’t let young kids put plastic toys in their mouths. Use toys and teethers made of natural materials, such as wood and cloth, instead of plastic. Don’t let kids play with polycarbonate water bottles or containers (marked with a “7” or PC), as these are most likely to contain BPA, or chew on electronics such as phones and remotes, as they can contain flame retardants. Finally, be careful with kid’s jewelry; it can contain lead and cadmium. continued on next page ››

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‹‹ continued from previous page

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With cleaning products less is more. “Disinfecting products are simply not necessary outside a clinical setting,” Lunder says. Many contain strong chemicals that cause asthma, skin irritation, and even cancer. Warm water and soap is enough for daily cleaning. For something stronger, look for active ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide or citric acid. Using microfiber cloths and mops will also make it easier to clean up without chemicals.

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Get rid of the hand sanitizer by the changing mat and don’t use it on your kids’ hands. It may contain triclosan, trilocarbon,

CHEMICAL GLOSSARY Flame Retardants Found in polyurethane foam, such as nursing pillows, mattresses, changing pads, and car seats, as well as electronic items such as remote controls. Known carcinogens, neurotoxins, and endocrine disruptors. A recent study found that levels in the bodies of children were nearly five times higher than their mothers.

Phthalates Found in personal care products, soft plastic toys (especially polyvinyl chloride, or PVC), teethers, vinyl clothes, some paints, air fresheners (parfum), food, and plastic food containers.

Linked to a variety of health problems, including asthma, allergies, male infertility, and abnormal hormonal development.

Bisphenol A (BPA) Found in plastic bottles and utensils, sippy cups, teethers, bottled formula, and canned food. Known endocrine disruptor that has been linked to breast cancer. Its replacement, bisphenol S (BPS), is also thought to be toxic.

Formaldehyde Found in composite wood, furniture and carpet glues, and cleaning and personal care products. Known carcinogen.

Causes asthma, eye and throat irritation, and allergies.

Triclosan Found in antibacterial soaps, toothpaste, and hand sanitizers.

Linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, liver toxicity, and thyroid dysfunction. Recently banned by the Food and Drug Administration for use in hand soaps.

Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Found in waterproof and stainproof shoes and clothes, furniture, and carpets. Suspected to be carcinogenic and to cause liver and thyroid problems.

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Parabens Used as preservatives in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals Some have been linked to endocrine disruption, sperm damage, breast cancer, and neurological and hormonal conditions.

or fragrances, which are suspected carcinogens and endocrine disruptors. Triclosan was recently banned by the Food and Drug Administration and is also found in antibacterial soap.

Lose the Air Fresheners

Throw away the air freshener, as it may contain phthalates among other nasties. James recommends a low-fi option: activated charcoal bags. Charcoal is a natural air purifier and may absorb some toxins, as well as bad odors. If you want to go one step further, buy an air filter such as the Austin Air Healthmate, which filters gases, odors, and particles. Finally remember to open windows often, as indoor air often contains higher levels of VOCs such as formaldehyde.

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Activism for Change

Now for some good news: “Levels of BPA, triclosan, parabens, and some phthalate levels in blood have gone down between 2003 and 2014,” Lunder says. This is thanks to increased awareness and new laws and regulations. So speak up and support groups such as the Environmental Working Group that is campaigning to change legislation, and educate your friends and family to make smart choices. “It’s not a job that one person can do on their own, we have to change it on a national level,” Lunder says.

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Mindful Games

››

Activities for kids to help them practice mindfulness, awareness, calmness, kindness, and compassion

M

indfulness is a popular buzzword these days. It is being used everywhere from the home, to the workplace, to how we parent and deal with other personal relationships. Now kids can get in on the action, too. Susan Kaiser Greenland is a mediation practitioner and an expert when it comes to teaching mindfulness to kids. She wrote the book Mindful Games as a way for children to develop focusing skills and respond in a calm way to situations. The games are simple and fun to play and Greenland suggests they are as equally beneficial for parents to play as well. Below is an excerpt from the book that includes two “mindful games.”

Drop the Monkeys

Drop the Monkeys is a remarkably useful visual demonstration of how kids work with the thoughts, emotions, and sensations that bubble up during anchor games. It is also a wonderful group facilitation tool that brings playfulness and a sense of humor to the check-ins that follow introspective practices. Using a children’s toy called Barrel of Monkeys as a prop, children joke about the thoughts that grabbed their attention.

With the help of a colorful plastic toy, we build a chain of monkeys to demonstrate how we can notice thoughts and let them go.

Life Skills: Focusing, seeing Target Ages: Young children, older children 24

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Leading The Demonstration 1. Talking points: Do you ever notice that instead of paying attention to what’s happening in the moment, you become distracted by a thought about something that happened in the past or something that might happen in the future? What are some examples?

2. In this game, each monkey represents a thought, emotion, or sensation that has grabbed our attention. Offer an example of a distracting thought and hold up a monkey.

3. Now you give me an example. For each distraction we think of, I’ll add another monkey to the chain. Take three to four examples from children, and add a monkey to the chain for each example.

4. These are all monkeys we can let go of, right? We don’t need any of these thoughts and emotions distracting us right now, so let’s drop them. Drop the monkey chain back into the plastic barrel.

5. That was fun. Let’s try it again. Can you think of more examples?

Tips 1. Although the barrel of monkeys is used more like a toy with younger children, it can be a helpful visual aid when working with older children (and adults!).

2. Extend the demonstration by adding a discussion at the end.

Here are some talking points: How often does your mind wander away from the present into the past or future? Do thoughts and emotions stay the same, or do they change over time?

3. Drop the Monkeys helps children turn distractions into success stories. Hold up the monkey chain and ask children what to call the moment when they notice they’re distracted. Kids shout, “Mindfulness!” because they know where their minds are at that instant.

4. Occasionally, children bring up a serious topic that merits further inquiry. If the timing and venue are right, there’s no better time to talk about what’s bothering them. But sensitive topics are sometimes raised at inappropriate times. If that happens, acknowledge the topic and the child’s concern, then shift the tone and subject matter of the discussion. Be sure to revisit the topic with the child privately at a more appropriate time and place.

Next, young meditators choose a breathing anchor by noticing where they feel their breath most easily—near their noses, in their chests, or inside their bellies.

Tips 1. Choose Your Breathing Anchor can also be practiced lying down or standing.

2. When leading more than one child, ask them to put one hand on their head when they’ve chosen an anchor. Wait for everyone to choose an anchor before you continue.

3. It can be helpful to start the activity with a relaxing body scan. For example, “Feel your eyelids closed, feel your shoulders relaxed, feel your hands touching your knees, feel your legs touching the floor or the chair . . .”

4. When children have had some practice sitting for longer periods, you can extend this activity with a few minutes of Mindful Breathing.

5. To vary the game, ask children to choose another simple, neutral object to anchor their attention: a sound, a sensation, or counting, for example.

Susan Kaiser Greenland is an internationally recognized leader in teaching mindfulness and meditation to children, teens, and families. She is the author of The Mindful Child and Mindful Games, and has studied meditation with teachers from the Tibetan Buddhist tradition since 1997.

Choose Your Breathing Anchor

We pay attention to the feeling of breathing where we notice it most—near the nose, chest, or belly—to help us relax and focus on the present moment.

Life Skills: Focusing Target Ages: All ages Leading The Game 1. Sit with your back straight and your body relaxed, resting your hands gently on your knees, and close your eyes if you’re comfortable. Notice what it feels like to breathe in and out right now.

2. Place one finger under your nose and feel your breath going in and out. Can you feel it?

3. Next, place your hand on your chest, above your heart. Can you feel your hand moving when you breathe?

4. Now place your hand on your belly and feel the movement of your breathing there.

5. Put your hands back on your knees and breathe naturally.

Notice where you feel the movement of your breath most easily. Is it just beneath your nose, at your chest, or at your belly?

6. Now I’m going to ask you to make a choice and focus on your breathing where you feel it most. Wherever that is, that’s the place I’ll be talking about when I use the word “anchor.” We’re going to use this anchor for the rest of the game, so if you need to check again to see where it’s easiest to feel your breathing right now, go ahead.

7. Great. Let’s try this for a few more breaths together. See if you can keep your body relaxed and lightly rest your attention on your anchor at the same time. This is how we rest in the feeling of the movement of our breath.

From Mindful Games by Susan Kaiser Greenland © 2016 by Susan Kaiser Greenland. Illustrations © 2016 by Lindsay DuPont. Reprinted in arrangement with Shambhala Publications, Inc. Boulder, CO.

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Chase Bailey, a 15-year-old chef with autism who is host of his own cooking show on YouTube.com, recently published The Official Chase ’N Yur Face Cookbook.

Chasing His Dreams

››

How a teen with autism overcame his food aversions to create a cooking show and cookbook Interview by Katelin Walling; recipes by Chase Bailey

C

hase Bailey is a 15-year-old chef with his own cooking show on YouTube and a recently released cookbook, The Official Chase ‘N Yur Face Cookbook—and he’s using part of the proceeds to set up his Chase Yur Dreams Foundation. That is a huge accomplishment on its own, but what makes it even more impressive is Chase was diagnosed with autism as a toddler, a diagnosis that includes severe food aversions, speech delay, and other developmental and physical issues. “Some doctors told my mom that I would probably never speak, and would not be able to take care of myself,” Chase said in his cookbook introduction.

He goes on to reveal that when he was 8, he started watching cooking shows with his grandfather—Eat Street is a favorite— which helped him overcome his food aversions. “These cooking shows helped me to see that food could actually be fun, and a big part of traveling—which is one of my favorite things,” he said.

Chase took a minute to tell us about his inspiration, how he overcomes challenges, and advice he has for others. Plus, he shares three of his own recipes with us.

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

What inspired you to write your own cookbook? I didn’t plan on doing a cookbook. But someone asked my mom if I would be interested, so she told me about it and all the amazing stuff that doing a cookbook would be. I already had a journal of recipes, so I thought, why not bring it to the world, right?

How do you come up with your recipes? Sometimes ideas literally just pop in my head. Sometimes when I’m eating something or see food on a show, I start thinking about how I would make something like it with different ingredients.

Are there any challenges you’ve had to overcome—both with your YouTube channel and cookbook—as a young man with autism? One of the challenges I have is speaking. I know the words I want to say but it takes time for me to put them in order. I have an acting coach who helps me speak properly for my shows and interviews. I also have challenges with fine motor skills.

Sometimes my hand strength is not very good, so l use tools like a

chopper and food processor to help me in the kitchen. Everybody has challenges to overcome. We all do life with a little bit of help.

Can you tell me about the Chase Yur Dreams Foundation (ChaseYurDreams.org)—its mission and goals? There are a lot of kids with autism who have challenges and dreams like me. I want to help them with education, jobs, and things they need to make their dreams come true.

Do you have advice for other children on the spectrum, or with other disabilities, about pursuing their passion? Find out what you love to do and go for it! And ask for help!

If you could say anything to those without special needs about having an autism diagnosis, what would it be? People with autism have dreams and can do things, too. Autism is like having something special or an extra body part. You just have figure how to make it work for you.

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Recipes excerpted from The Official Chase ‘N Yur Face Cookbook by Chase Bailey with permission of Chase ‘N Yur Face Media LLC

Jessica Nicosia-Nadler

Pigs In A Waffle Ingredients 4 Waffles (recipe below) 12 thin slices of uncured maple honey ham 8 slices of provolone cheese ½ cup breakfast slaw (recipe below) Directions 1. On a warm waffle, add 2 slices of provolone cheese, 3 slices of ham, and ½ cup of breakfast slow to 1 side of the waffle.

2. Gently fold over to make a sandwich.

3. When serving to guests, add a 4-inch toothpick to keep the sandwich closed.

Waffle Recipe Ingredients 1¾ cup flour ¼ cup cornstarch 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 2 eggs 1¾ cup milk ½ cup canola oil 2 teaspoons almond extract

Directions 1. Preheat waffle iron.

2. Combine all of the ingredients together in a bowl and whisk until smooth.

3. Use cooking spray to grease waffle iron.

4. As waffle irons vary in size, follow the instructions for your waffle iron to determine how much batter to pour onto the waffle iron.

Breakfast Slaw Mix Ingredients 2½ cups green cabbage rough shred ½ cup Fuji apples diced 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 1½ tablespoons chopped walnuts 1 tablespoon dried blueberries 2-3 tablespoons ranch dressing (use your favorite)

Directions 1. Combine all of the ingredients into a bowl and stir together. continued on next page ››

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PBNA Panini (Peanut Butter, Nutella, & Apple) Ingredients Cooking spray or 1 teaspoon of butter 2 slices of whole-wheat sandwich bread or gluten-free sandwich bread 1 tablespoon Nutella 1 tablespoon peanut butter 1 small whole green apple Directions 1. Use a peeler to remove the skin from apple 2. Use a knife or slicer to slice thin slices of apple.

3. Spread Nutella on one slice of bread.

4. Spread peanut butter on the other slice of bread.

Sloppy Chase’s Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 small yellow onion chopped 1 tablespoon minced garlic ½ cup chopped yellow pepper ½ cup chopped orange pepper ¾ cup chopped cremini mushrooms 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 1 pound ground lamb 2 tablespoons sloppy Joe seasoning 1 6 ounce can of tomato paste 1 cup diced fire roasted tomatoes with the liquid ½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano 3-5 French Brioche hamburger buns or regular hamburger buns Directions 1. In a medium pan, heat oil on medium-high heat and sauté onions for 3-4 minutes.

2. Add in garlic, yellow peppers, orange peppers, mushrooms, salt and pepper.

3. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes.

4. Add ground lamb into sautéed vegetable mixture and cook until meat is done.

5. Drain excess grease.

6. Pour vegetable and ground lamb

5. Place desired amount of apple slices on top of the peanut butter and place the Nutella slice on top.

6. Brush a small amount of butter on the top and bottom half of the sandwich or spray the top and bottom of the Panini maker with cooking spray.

7. Place the sandwich in the Panini maker and cook until golden on both sides.

Jessica Nicosia-Nadler

Jack & Jill Nursery Schools

Jessica Nicosia-Nadler

‹‹ continued from previous page

mixture back into pan.

7. Stir in the sloppy Joe seasoning, tomato paste, and roasted tomatoes, and return to heat.

8. Blend all ingredients well and turn heat down to simmer.

9. Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

10. To make a closed faced Sloppy Chase sandwich, put ½ cup of mixture on ½ of the hamburger or brioche bun and top with ParmigianoReggiano. To make an open faced Sloppy Chase put ½ cup mixture on each half of the hamburger or brioche buns and top with Parmigiano-Reggiano.

COOKING CLASSES FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

REDEEMER LUTHERAN SCHOOL A great family school where learners thrive

If your child has expressed an interest in learning to cook, check out these programs in Queens that offer cooking programs for children and teens with special needs.

LilChefs.com Special Events Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bronx, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, New Jersey 516-338-0552 lilchefs.com; paula@lilchefs.com Chef Paula offers hands-on workshops and birthday parties at your location for ages 3-14 that include chef hats and aprons, as well as a personalized recipe booklet specific to the event, for each young chef.

All parties and workshops are conducted in an inclusive environment, and Chef Paula can customize an event specifically for children with special needs, geared toward different abilities. Recipes can also be created for various dietary needs, and every event includes multisensory components relating to sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound.

Young Chefs Academy 108-10 72nd Ave., 2nd Floor, Forest Hills 718-268-0343 foresthillsny.youngchefsacademy.com foresthillsny@youngchefsacademy.com This cooking school offers classes, workshops, and birthday parties for ages 4 and older, in which children will learn and develop their culinary skills. Children with special needs can be accommodated in most programs offered.

Come join us at one of these

OPEN HOUSE DATES

Now Accepting Applications for 2017-2018

Featuring “Happy Camper” Book Fair

At Redeemer Lutheran School, we partner with families to nurture students in the mind AND spirit.

Wednesday, April 26th 6-8PM Thursday, May 25th 6-8PM

Our caring faculty prepares students with rigorous and stimulating academics, and 90% of our graduates are accepted into their first and second choice high schools.

Saturday, June 10th 10AM-1PM Admissions exam for students entering grades 1-8.

Redeemer Lutheran School offers: Nursery, Free UPK, Kindergarten - 8th Before & After Care

At all open houses, you will tour the school, meet faculty and get enrollment information.

Faith-based approach and small classes where each student is special

Early Bird Registration Monday, May 1st

Register by May 1st to receive $100 tuition discount.

Can’t make open house?

Call 718.821.6670 to schedule your tour.

Art, music, technology, extracurriculars Family-oriented activities throughout the year Daily hot lunch prepared fresh by school chef Convenient to the Jackie Robinson Pkwy; bus options available

Experience Redeemer Lutheran School...Stop by an open house or call 718.821.6670 to schedule your tour.

6926 Cooper Ave in Glendale

www.rlgschool.org

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

718-640-6767 • 516-216-1791 www.LISpeechandMyo.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 Specialized Therapy Approaches Approaches Including: 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

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

QueensParent 29

SpecialParent

15 Questions to Ask When Looking For a Special Needs Tutor ›› There are lots of considerations when looking for a tutor for your child with special needs. A mom of six—two of whom have special needs—offers advice on how to find the right one. By Michaela Searfoorce

I

f your child is struggling in math, spelling, or reading, you might be considering a tutor. If so, there are a lot of options to consider: Home or tutoring center? What can you afford? How often can you meet? When you add into the mix a child with additional special needs, things can quickly become overwhelming.

Fortunately, many tutors and tutoring services are experienced in working with kids who have special needs.

Finding the right one may require a little more research on the parent’s part, but those seeking clients who have special needs should be happy to spend the time answering parents’ questions to ensure they are the right fit for your child. I spoke with two experts—Carol Lovallo, an educational development supervisor from Huntington Learning Center, and Emily Levy, Ed.D., the founder and director of EBL Coaching—who were friendly, knowledgeable about the field, and helped me come up with this list of 15 things you may want to consider when seeking out the right tutor for your child with special needs:

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

What disabilities do your tutors have experience with? As all of us parents are painfully aware, different disabilities are not created equal. A tutor who has experience with dyslexia may not know what to do with learning issues caused by autism, ADHD, or OCD. Instead of starting with, “My child has _________,” or “Do you have experience with __________,” I have found it more helpful (and enlightening) to simply ask, “What disabilities and special needs have you had experience with?” Lovallo, for instance, touted Huntington Learning Center’s special ADHD program, in which the centers offer individualized help to children diagnosed with ADHD from teachers who have had specific training.

Do you have any special qualifications, certifications, or credentials? Dr. Levy says parents should be asking about what specialized and research-based techniques are being used.

As just one example, her company specializes in the OrtonGillingham method for students who struggle with reading.

How long have you been tutoring? This apparently means

“how old are you?” in our house. Tutors come in all ages and experience levels, but it’s important to consider who your children will enjoy learning from and listening to—with whom they’ll click. My children have made their preferences known loud and clear and we do our best to accommodate. My oldest son and daughter prefer someone “not old like mommy,” and do very well with young, energetic, qualified college students. One of my middle boys, however, responds best to a woman closer to my own mother’s age who has more experience and a calm, quiet demeanor (to balance him bouncing off the wall, perhaps?).

How do you handle disruptive behavior, acting out, and attention issues? What’s your discipline strategy? Look, I love my kid, but when he starts rapidly clicking his pen for the 90th time after being asked to make change for a dollar, I can lose my cool. In calmer moments I’m redirecting, using mini M&M’S as positive reinforcement, or offering extra screen time for a successful finish to our homework session. It’s comforting to know the tutor’s (or tutoring center’s) strategies.

What’s your expertise in the content area my child is studying? Now that you know the tutoring center specializes in ADHD, make sure it has tutors who also are knowledgeable in Spanish, calculus, or whatever subject(s) your child is struggling with.

Do you have special needs references I can speak to?

“Special needs” is the key phrase here, because while Joe’s mom might rave about this place, Joe might be a B student who needed some basic math test prep. How does Maria’s mom, whose daughter has an autism spectrum disorder and is upset easily by certain noises, feel about their approach? Even better, do they have any clients with your child’s specific disability who would be willing to speak with you?

Do you tutor at my home or only on-site? You should be able to find what you need fairly easily, and don’t need to compromise on this; do what is best for you and your child. Huntington Learning Center offers on-site tutoring with locations nationwide along with a search function on the website that will bring up a map of its nearby centers. EBL Coaching has tutors at several locations around the New York City area, as well as tutors who travel to students’ homes.

What will the environment be like? If tutoring won’t be taking place in your home, it’s important to understand the surroundings where your child will be learning. Since my son has sensory processing disorder it’s important that there aren’t loud electric pencil sharpeners being used while he’s around.

During his lessons, distractions and loud noises from sources such as gum, bubble wrap, or balloons need to be avoided.

Will you be tutoring my child alone or in a group? Think about what approach might be best for your child. Is he motivated by a group and enjoys being around other children?

Or does she struggle with social issues and is easily distracted?

Many tutors and tutoring centers have different approaches.

Some may start with a 1-on-1 approach and then increase the number of students per teacher (a practice which can help promote independence in the classroom). If you only want 1-on-1 tutoring, let it be known.

How much do you charge per session? Is there a sliding scale? Are other fees involved? Make sure your budget includes the extras, such as possible fees for materials or assessments.

How long is each tutoring session? What hours are sessions available? If your child struggles with attention issues, you

might want to seek out a place that offers shorter, more frequent sessions. But if you’re trying to squeeze meetings into an alreadypacked schedule of extracurricular activities and therapists, perhaps fewer, longer sessions are what you’re looking for.

What’s your policy for cancellations and make-up sessions? Don’t forget to check the policy both ways. What happens if your child is sick? How much notice is required to be able to reschedule without a penalty? What happens if the tutor can’t make it? At a larger center, perhaps a substitute is available, but ask: Will the substitute be brought up to speed on your child before you arrive?

How do you evaluate progress? And what happens if my child doesn’t make progress? While you as a parent need to be clear on what progress you’re looking for your child to make, it should also be made clear how the center or tutor evaluates progress. Is it through test scores and report cards, or anecdotes gathered from your child’s teachers?

Huntington Learning Center uses more than one approach to form a baseline against which progress is measured, including interviews with parents and teachers as well as research-based tests. Lovallo says Huntington Learning Center actually uses hundreds of different curricula so there is always another way for a student to learn the material.

At EBL Coaching, Dr. Levy says each student is constantly measured against his or her original baseline. She assures me that if a student isn’t making progress or responding, the plan is tweaked immediately.

How will you communicate with me, and how often? How can I contact you with concerns? Some places opt for in-person meetings, while others include written reports for parents.

Will you work with and communicate with my child’s teachers? With six kids, in my house a unified front is sometimes the only way we get through dinner, time-outs, and especially school work. Lovallo says tutors should be in touch with teachers as often as parents—they try to meet with or reach out to teachers at least once a month to make sure progress is being carried over to the classroom.

Getting What You Need

This might seem obvious, but make sure that you explain your goals and ask for concrete steps on how they will be met. At the end of our conversation, Lovallo remarks, “You need to understand who is going to be working with your child. When you’re looking for a tutor, you want to make sure the person is qualified, and at our center what is important about us is that we are a research-based, professional institution.”

This particularly hit home for me. Many excellent tutors and centers focus primarily on academics and their ability to raise your child’s test score and report card grades. However, this might not always be the main focus for a parent of a child with special needs. My oldest child is seven grade levels behind in math, exempt from New York state testing, and has an IQ hovering in the mid-70s. I just want him to be able to tell time and make change as he gets older. Make sure you and any potential tutor have the same vision for what your goals are and what progress you are seeking ahead of time.

Michaela Searfoorce is a home-schooling mother of six children. She makes time to write in the wee hours. You can find more of her stories at thefoorce.com or thecentralparkzoo.com.

QueensParent 31

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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OUTINGS: Minnewaska State Park Preserve

nymetroparents.com/outings

Adventures with a View in Kerhonkson

Courtesy New York State Parks

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Courtesy Nicholas Margin

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Courtesy New York State Parks

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Courtesy New York State Parks

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Courtesy New York State Parks

Take in waterfalls, stunning cliff-edge views, and activities for everyone at the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. ›› By Melissa A. Kay

1 An aerial view of the vast landscape of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. 2 Guided hikes provide a group environment to take in the surroundings, including numerous waterfalls, while community conservation days provide an opportunity to clean up the park and give back. 3 Mountain laurels bloom in abundance during the early summer in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. 4 Nature-focused and family-friendly events take place year-round, giving kids of all ages an opportunity to interact with and learn more about their natural surroundings. 5 Minnewaska State Park Preserve is home to a Bird Conservation Area and has an Early Morning Birders program from April to October.

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panning more than 23,000 acres of wild and scenic land, Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Ulster County is the largest of six New York state parks holding the distinction of being classified and protected as a park preserve. Take a hike, take a swim, and take in the picturesque views.

Year-Round Fun

Minnewaska State Park Preserve rests on land that used to hold a thriving mountaintop resort, dating back to the late 1870s. The park was founded in the early 1970s, and gained distinction as a park reserve in 1993. Set on the Shawangunk Mountain ridge, the park includes several waterfalls, sheer cliffs, dense hardwood forests, and four crystalline sky lakes fed by rainwater. Rock climbing is permitted and visitors can swim and scuba dive in the lifeguarded swimming areas of Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting in the summer.

The park has a total of 85 miles of carriage roads, footpaths, and wood roads, on

which families can enjoy horseback riding, biking, hiking, snowshoeing, or even crosscountry skiing.

The Shawangunk Ridge, a 500-foot tall prominent cliff, is home to rare plants and animals. Peregrine falcons are known to nest along the cliff lines of the ridge. Stop by the 3,000-square-foot Sam’s Point Visitor Center to learn more about the area.

Annual Events

A guided outing, Tuesday Trek, is offered the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from October to May. Depending on the weather, participants may rent snowshoes.

Kids who are home-schooled can join others for an afternoon of nature and discovery through the Homeschooler Programs, offered the first Thursday of each month from March to June and September to December in the afternoon.

I Love My Park Day, held on May 6, will mark the sixth year of the statewide event to improve and enhance New York’s state parks and historic sites. Volunteers will clean

up parklands and beaches, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, and more. Volunteer Trails Day on Sept. 17 is another opportunity to show the park some love by volunteering to help clean up.

April Highlights

Minnewaska State Park Preserve is home to a Bird Conservation Area. The Early Morning Birders program is designed for birding enthusiasts or those just looking to learn the basics and will be led by experienced birding volunteers and park naturalists. The family-friendly program runs Tuesday mornings from April to October. Bring your binoculars to see what you can find!

Details

Address: 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 50-minute drive from Flushing Hours: Visit the website for seasonal hours Admission: $10 per vehicle For more information: 845-255-0752 or parks.ny.gov/parks/127 QueensParent 33

Attention Parents of Babies, Kids, Teens

Your Child Could Be on Our Cover

EASY STEPS TO ENTER: 1. "Like" at www.facebook.com/nymetroparents 2. Select 1 favorite photo of your child (ages < 1-16) 3. Upload the photo (jpg or png) to Facebook 4. Share with friends and vote daily!

Every entry will be automatically reviewed by Barbizon talent scouts

For a complete list of rules: http://nymetroparents.com/CoverContestRules Promotion period 4/24/17 - 6/9/17

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Rennie Harris Puremovement (No. 1 on our list).

APRIL

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

On Screen 39 Dance Party

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: GAIL WARREN qpcal@davlermedia.com

40 Movers & Shakers,

Show Time!

41 Animal Lovers

42 Crafty Kids,

Special Needs 43 Holiday Fun 44 Mini Musicians,

Smarty Pants 45 Once Upon a Time 46 The Great Outdoors

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EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

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

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

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Rennie Harris Puremovement

WHEN: April 1-2, Saturday, 2pm and 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: Queens Theatre, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing AGES: 3 and older WHAT: As the first and longest running hip-hop dance touring company, its work is dedicated to preserving and spreading hip-hop culture, breaking stereotypes and expectations of hip-hop dance.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This troupe encompasses the rich, diverse AfricanAmerican traditions of the past, while simultaneously honoring the voice of a new generation.

WANT TO GO? $25-$42. 718-760-0064. queenstheatre.org.

Kew Gardens Empty Bowls Event

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WHEN: Wednesday, April 5, 5:30-7pm and 7:30-9pm WHERE: Austin’s Ale House, 82-70 Austin St., Kew Gardens AGES: All WHAT: Participants will enjoy a simple meal of soup and bread, and then take home their bowls as a reminder that someone else’s bowl is always empty and that communities of people can work together to fill them.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Each $20 donation will help to feed a family in need.

WANT TO GO? $20. 718-849-3939. emptybowls.river.fund.

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Global Mashup #2: Japan Meets Puerto Rico

WHEN: Friday, April 7, 8pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Annette A. Aguilar & StringBeans present Puerto

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Rican jazz; and Masayo Ishigure and her group the Miyabi Koto Shamisen Ensemble present traditional Japanese music with a jazz and classical twist.

Each band plays a set, then the two meet and jam.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A cool mash-up of two cultures on one stage with an open dance floor.

WANT TO GO? $16. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

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Luna Park 2017 Season Opening

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 10am-8pm WHERE: Luna Park, 1000 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Kick off the season at Coney Island’s Luna Park and celebrate the 90th birthday of the Coney Island Cyclone with games, live entertainment, and prizes.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The first 100 guests can ride the Coney Island Cyclone for free.

WANT TO GO? Free general admission; tickets required for some activities. 718-373-5862. lunaparknyc.com.

Children’s Carnival

WHEN: April 1-9, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: The kids’ carnival in the apple orchard features midway games, food, hayrides, pony rides, and a seasonal petting zoo for an additional fee. Admission includes carnival rides.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A great day of fun for the kid in all of us.

WANT TO GO? $15. 718-347-3276. queensfarm.org.

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B LO O M I N G F LO W E R S SEEDLING

QUACK

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Harlem Globetrotters

WHEN: Tuesday, April 11, 7pm WHERE: The New Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, Long Island AGES: All WHAT: A star-studded roster will have fans on the edge of their seats to witness the ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry, and one-ofa-kind family entertainment that thrills fans of all ages.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Join Globetrotter stars after the game when they will be available for autographs, photographs, and high-fives for fans.

WANT TO GO? $26.50 and up. 516-231-4848. ticketmaster.com.

ARTRAGEOUS!

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WHEN: Sunday, April 23, 3pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Participate in an experience that includes a team of artists, singers, and dancers, with an element of audience involvement and interaction. Following the show, audience members can participate in a moderated auction to sell the art created live on-stage.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A wildly creative celebration of the arts.

WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

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WHEN: April 19-30, see website for schedule E A S T E R E G G H U N T CHIRPING BIRDS WHERE: Multiple venues around New York City N E S T DECORATIONS P A R A D E QUEENS & WOODHAVEN BOULEVARDS | 718.592.3900 | ShopQueensCenter.com AGES: 9 and older M A R S HQUEENS M ACENTER L L| O W CQUESTIONS? H I C KWESHAVE&ANSWERS. COC ONUT EGGS TEXT CONCIERGE 718.690.3222 WHAT: One of the highlights for families is the chance to see a free screening of Aladdin to celebrate its 25-year anniversary, featuring the voice of Brad Kane—Aladdin himself—performing a soundtrack favorite in a special pre-film sing-along.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This year’s festival will say goodbye to the street QUE-7155-A97D AD1 BUNNY PRINT ADS.indd 2 3/7/17 11:52 AM fair of previous year and focus on more free family screenings.

WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-941-2400.

Does Your Kid tribecafilm.com/festival. need a haircut?

SPRING

Arbor Fest

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WHEN: Sunday, April 30, 11am-5pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, including live music, tours, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, face-painting, food and craft vendors, demonstrations, and a beer and wine tent.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a wonderful day of outdoor family fun.

WANT TO GO? See website for pricing. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

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ResouRces ARticles

All Kids Fair

WHEN: Sunday, April 30, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: Huntington Hilton, Grand Ballroom, 598 Broad Hollow Road, Melville, Long Island AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy this celebration of life on Long Island for kids and their families with a bounce house, petting zoo, popcorn, sand art, face painting, balloons, craft projects, chocolate samples, and more. Now in a new, bigger location to accommodate a larger crowd.

WHY WE LOVE IT: There will be more than 80 exhibitors introducing local products and services, plus kids’ classes for all ages including gymnastics, ballet, music, and messy toddler art.

WANT TO GO? $5; free for children 2 and younger. 516-621-1446. allkidsfair.com. ››

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QueensParent 37

Day Camp Open House FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 23, 10am-12pm WHERE: Beth Sholom Day Camp, 401 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights, Long Island AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Meet camp leadership, tour the beautiful indoor and outdoor facility, and ask all of your questions. The program allows children to try new things, build friendships, and discover their interests in a safe and nurturing environment.

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

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE ON SCREEN Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome.

Kids Club FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 8-10am WHERE: Queens Center Mall-Lower Level, JCPenney Wing, 90-15 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Powered by National Geographic Kids, this a great opportunity for kids to learn in a fun, interactive setting featuring creative activities and games that focus on discovery through play.

WANT TO GO? 718-592-3900. shopqueenscenter.com/events.

Bricks 4 Kidz Workshop FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 4, 4pm WHERE: South Jamaica Library, 108-41 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., South Jamaica AGES: 5-12 WHAT: A hands-on robotics session in which students build machines, buildings, vehicles, and other structures out of Lego bricks.

Children will build the models following step-by-step guides, while exploring principles of engineering, architecture, physics, and more.

WANT TO GO? 718-739-4088. queenslibrary.org.

LICAC Summer Camp Open House FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 9am-1pm WHERE: Long Island City School of Ballet, 44-02 23rd St., Studio 216, Long Island City AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Visit the studios and meet the director and staff. This interdisciplinary arts camp offers daily classes in dance, music, drama, and arts and crafts for children.

WANT TO GO? 718-781-1169. licsb.com.

Astoria Park Earth Day Spring Shorefest Kickoff FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 9am-5pm WHERE: Astoria Park, Shore Boulevard between Ditmars Boulevard and Astoria Park South, Astoria AGES: All WHAT: This nature-themed spring kickoff celebration will feature community volunteer opportunities, gardening activities, a shoreline cleanup, public programming, and the re-opening of the renovated Bocce Ball Court. Other events include live music, child-friendly games, prizes, and fitness activities.

WANT TO GO? astoriaparkalliance.org.

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‘Night Bird Song: The Thomas Chapin Story’ FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 7pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This documentary film draws an intimate portrait of a musical explorer who transcended the boundaries of jazz and dissolved the distinctions between sound and music.

WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Karaoke At The Movies: ‘Tarzan’

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 6:30pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrate the magic of Disney and be the star of the movie, as the audience is encouraged to dress up as their favorite character, sing, and dance their way through this interactive family-oriented film. There will be a trivia contest with prizes before each showing.

WANT TO GO? $5. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

Spring Break Family Movies FREE

WHEN: April 12-14, Wednesday, 2pm; Friday, 1pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: All WHAT: Ring in spring! Enjoy watching Trolls on Wednesday and Lost and Found on Friday.

WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

Family Movie Time FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 3:15pm WHERE: Middle Village Public Library, 72-31 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village AGES: All WHAT: A viewing of Middle School: The Worst Years of my Life for the whole family to enjoy.

WANT TO GO? 718-326-1390. queenslibrary.org.

Martin Scorsese Exhibition

WHEN: Through April 23: Wednesday-Thursday, 10:30am-2pm; Friday, 10:30am-8pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11:30am-7pm WHERE: Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Drawing extensively from Scorsese’s own collection, the exhibition includes production material from his key films, objects from his childhood, behind-the-scenes images, and large-scale projections of scenes from his work.

WANT TO GO? $15; $11 seniors with ID; $7 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3. 718-429-2579. movingimage.org.

The Sixth Annual Asbury Short Films

WHEN: Friday, April 28, 7:30pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Avenue, Rockville Centre, Long Island AGES: 9 and older WHAT: An evening of world-renowned, award-winning short films from the past and present.

WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

Children’s Friday Matinee FREE

WHEN: April 7-28, Fridays, 3:30pm WHERE: Mitchell-Linden Library, 31-32 Union St., Flushing AGES: 3-12, adult WHAT: Enjoy screenings of The Lego Movie, Storks, Finding Nemo, and Finding Dory.

WANT TO GO? 718-539-2330. queenslibrary.org.

‘Journey to Space’ 3-D Movie

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

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

Behind the Screen

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Wednesday-Thursday, 10:30am-2pm; Friday, 10:30am-8pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11:30am-7pm WHERE: Museum of the Moving Image, 35-01 35th Ave., Astoria AGES: All WHAT: Visitors can create their own short animations, star in their own Video Flipbook, experiment with sound effects, and film music.

WANT TO GO? $15; $11 seniors with ID; $7 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3. 718-777-6888. movingimage.us.

DANCE PARTY Doug Varone and Dancers

WHEN: Through April 1: Wednesday-Saturday, 7:30pm WHERE: BAM Harvey Theater, 651 Fulton St., Fort Greene, Brooklyn AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Doug Varone and Dancers celebrate 30 years of impassioned choreography with three works representing the past, present, and future of this peerless company.

WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 718-636-4100. bam.org.

Step Afrika!

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 8pm WHERE: Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College, Walt Whitman Theatre, 2900 Avenue H, Flatbush, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: The company will conduct a three-day residency that includes a public performance, a free after-school stepping masterclass, and three educational shows for schoolchildren.

WANT TO GO? $25. 718-951-4500. brooklyncenter.org.

Latin Dance Fiesta

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 8pm WHERE: Queens Theatre, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing AGES: 3 and older WHAT: In this lively and colorful show, four renowned Latin dance companies will showcase traditional dances from their country of origin.

WANT TO GO? $25. 718-760-0064. queenstheatre.org.

Tatanka vs. Black Snake: Environmental Awareness Through Dance and Digital Storytelling FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 3pm WHERE: Jackson Heights Library, 35-51 81st St., Jackson Heights AGES: All WHAT: This multimedia Native American dance performance explores environmental themes and the cultural heritage of the first Americans.

WANT TO GO? 718-899-2500. queenslibrary.org.

Lincoln Center Local Screening: ‘Curtain Up: The School of American Ballet Workshop’ FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 2:30pm WHERE: Bellerose Library, 250-08 Hillside Ave., Bellerose AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A family-friendly screening that takes the audience behind the scenes to experience the intensive training of ballet’s brightest future stars as they prepare for their vital end-of-year performances.

WANT TO GO? 718-831-8644. queenslibrary.org. ›› QueensParent 39

Kid Fit Fun FREE

WHEN: April 21-28, Fridays, 4pm WHERE: Baisley Park Library, 117-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Take part in the fitness workshops such as obstacle courses, break dance, and Star Wars light saber workouts.

WANT TO GO? 718-529-1590. queenslibrary.org.

Public Skating

WHEN: April 1-30, Monday-Thursday, 9am-5:15pm; Friday, 7-9:50pm; Saturday, 12-4:45pm and 8-9:50pm; Sunday, 12-4:45pm WHERE: World Ice Area-Flushing Meadows Corona Park, 131st Street and Avery Avenue, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Whether you’re lacing up skates for the first time, or you’re an experienced skater, participants will love ice-skating at the World Ice Arena!

WANT TO GO? $9 weekends; $6 weekdays; $5 skate rental. 718-7609001. worldice.com.

MOVERS & SHAKERS SHOW TIME! NY Mets Home Opener

WHEN: Monday, April 3, 1:10pm WHERE: Citi Field, 126-01 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy America’s pastime when the Amazin’s take on their NL rivals from Atlanta. All fans in attendance will receive a 2017 magnetic schedule.

WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 718-507-8499. mets.com.

Tween and Teen Yoga

WHEN: Tuesday, April 4, 10am WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 9-17 WHAT: This class includes traditional poses, breath and body awareness, and strength builders. Kids will leave feeling calm, confident, and more aware of themselves and surroundings. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $16. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Zumba for Kids FREE

WHEN: Thursday, April 6, 4pm WHERE: Pomonok Library, 158-21 Jewel Ave., Flushing AGES: 7-12 WHAT: A fun dance-based exercise designed just for kids.

WANT TO GO? 718-591-4343. queenslibrary.org.

Mets vs. Marlins: Fireworks Night

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 7:10pm WHERE: Citi Field, 126-01 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: There will be plenty of fireworks on the field when the Amazin’s take on their NL rivals. Plus, fans can enjoy a great fireworks show after the game.

WANT TO GO? $18 and up. 718-507-8499. mets.com.

Music and Movement

WHEN: Wednesday, April 19, 11:30am WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Musical instruments and sing-along songs get the youngest children’s bodies moving.

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

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‘Laura Ingalls Wilder’

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, 3pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre, Long Island AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This uplifting story of one of America’s most beloved authors comes to life in ArtsPower’s popular musical.

WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

The Company Men

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, 3pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Unlike any other four-man vocal group touring today, this group uniquely interweaves re-imagined classics of the last six decades featuring songs by The Four Tops, Michael Jackson, Billy Joel, Michael Bublé, The Temptations, and others.

WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

‘In The Mood’

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 3pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Much more than a concert, In The Mood presents a retro 1940’s musical featuring the singers and dancers and the sensational String Of Pearls big band orchestra.

WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

‘Twelfth Night’

WHEN: Through April 9: Friday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Queens Theatre, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Magic, mayhem, and mistaken identities come to the stage in Shakespeare’s cherished romantic comedy of revelry, reunion, and love.

WANT TO GO? $18. 718-760-0064. queenstheatre.org.

Circus 1903 The Golden Age of Circus

WHEN: April 5-16, Wednesday-Sunday, see website for show times WHERE: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, 4 Penn Plaza, Midtown, Manhattan

AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A 1903 circus rolls into town with strong men, contortionists, acrobats, knife throwers, high wire, and more.

WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 212-465-6080. theateratmsg.com.

‘Seussical’

WHEN: Sunday, April 23, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Queens Theatre, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Dr. Seuss’s beloved characters find themselves intertwined in an incredible crazy-quilt adventure, in which the power of imagination and the most miraculous “think” ever saves the day!

WANT TO GO? $14. 718-760-0064. queenstheatre.org.

The Road to Oz: A Tribute to Harold Arlen

WHEN: Sunday, April 23, 3pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre, Long Island AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A toast to the Harold Arlen, who composed the beloved songs for MGM’s timeless classic The Wizard of Oz. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

Monster Jam Triple Threat Series

WHEN: April 21-23, Friday-Saturday, 7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 1pm WHERE: The New Coliseum Presented by NYCB, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, Long Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This series tests the versatility of the athletes as they go headto-head in seven different competitions driving three different vehicles: Monster Jam trucks, Monster Jam Speedsters, and Monster Jam ATVs. WANT TO GO? $18 and up. 800-745-3000. nassaucoliseum.com.

Children’s Classics

WHEN: Through April 28, see website for dates, 10:30am WHERE: Once Upon A Time Inc., 87-61 111th St., Richmond Hill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy an intro to live musical theater, in this production that features old friends and new. Pinocchio, Alice In Wonderland, Peter Pan, Charlie Brown, and Mary Poppins will all be met in a whirlwind morning.

WANT TO GO? $5. 718-849-6954. onceuponatime-inc.com.

A Dream is a Wish: Princess Concert

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 8pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre, Long Island AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Tap and sing-along to all of your favorite Disney songs as we take you through a magical journey. You’ll even get to meet your favorite princess!

WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

UniverSoul Circus Big Top

WHEN: April 19-May 7, see website for schedule WHERE: Roy Wilkins Park, 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard, Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Celebrating more than 20 years under the big top, UniverSoul Circus features music, theatrical performances, circus acts, and fun.

WANT TO GO? $20-$40. 800-745-3000. universoulcircus.com.

ANIMAL LOVERS Little Naturalist Storytime: ‘Feathers for Lunch’

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Enter the wonderful world of nature and read an enchanting book about different animal friends. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $21. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Toddler Tales: A Color of His Own

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Find out how chameleon’s new friend cheers him up and meet a live lizard. Encourage a child’s love of reading by listening to a nature related story chosen especially for the littlest nature lovers. Create a craft, meet some of APEC’s animals, and enjoy a nature walk. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $21. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Pajama Story Time: Animal Super Powers

WHEN: Friday, April 7, 5:29-8pm WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Kids can come to the zoo dressed in their favorite superhero pajamas and explore animal powers. Meet with the animals and hike in the zoo using your night vision power, then the adventure ends with a snack and story.

WANT TO GO? $35. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

Spring Birding

WHEN: Sunday, April 9, 9:30am WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Welcome migratory birds back to Wave Hill this spring. Explore the gardens and woodlands with naturalist Gabriel Willow on a quest to spot some of our favorite feathered friends as they return to the Hudson Highlands.

WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Family Breakfast Club: Earth Day Everyday

WHEN: Sunday, April 23, 9:30am WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Participants explore the zoo, meet some animals, and learn some ways that they can help wildlife in the city. Light breakfast will be served.

WANT TO GO? $35. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

All the Little Birdies

WHEN: Sunday, April 30, 1pm; 1:30pm; 2pm; and 2:30pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Come welcome the spring season as we decorate lovely little birdhouses for our winged friends.

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

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Maker Space Friday FREE

WHEN: April 7-28, Fridays, 2:30-5pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Families can explore different materials, concepts, and ideas while making and tinkering together. Activities cover a wide range of topics including simple circuits, wind-powered racers, hand sewing, and more.

WANT TO GO? 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

CRAFTY KIDS Hands-On History: Handkerchief Maker FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 1-4pm WHERE: King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Create a handkerchief like women of Rufus King’s time would have owned by using simple embroidery techniques to embellish a cotton square.

From 1-3pm, join the Queens Memory Project to see what Jamaica was like in years past through old maps and images of the neighborhood.

WANT TO GO? 718-206-0545. kingmanor.org.

Easter Wreath FREE

WHEN: Thursday, April 6, 4pm WHERE: St. Albans Library, 191-05 Linden Blvd., St. Albans AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make a wreath to celebrate the holiday.

WANT TO GO? 718-528-8196. queenslibrary.org.

Feathered Friends

WHEN: Friday, April 14, 1pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Create your own spring bird using colorful feathers and fun craft materials.

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

Side By Side Arts That Bend

WHEN: April 8-15, Saturdays, 10:30am WHERE: The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Parents will engage with their children in discussions about art in the galleries, and work together or individually to make their own works of art. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $10 for families with up to four members. 718-2047088. noguchi.org.

Make It: Custom Wood Lego Heads

WHEN: April 8-23, Saturday-Sunday, 1:30-2:30pm, 3-4pm, and 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Kids will combine Legos with simple woodworking tools to create their own custom wood minifigure heads. This workshop is a great introduction to woodworking for beginners and a fun way for more advanced makers to hack their favorite toy.

WANT TO GO? $3 with admission: $16; $13 children ages 2-17. 718699-0005. nysci.org.

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What Can Art Do?

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 10:30am WHERE: The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, Long Island City AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Parents will engage with their children in discussions about art in the galleries, and work together or individually to make their own works of art. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $10 for families with up to four members. 718-2047088. noguchi.org.

Pastime: Art Games

WHEN: April 9-30, Sundays, 10:30am WHERE: The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, Long Island City AGES: Newborn to 5, adult WHAT: Parents will learn strategies for engaging their children during museum visits. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $10 families with up to four members. 718-204-7088. noguchi.org.

Sweet Little Snails

WHEN: Sunday, April 30, 2:30pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Make your own garden snail with colorful pom-poms, pipe cleaners, and more.

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

Family Storytime Crafts

WHEN: Through May 25: Thursdays, 5pm WHERE: Long Island City Library, 37-44 21st St., Long Island City AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Children will read stories and then make crafts.

WANT TO GO? 718-752-3700. queenslibrary.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Creative Spectrum Art Social FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 16, 10am WHERE: Queens Museum, NYC Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Facilitated by art therapist Jacquie Moore, this workshop aims to provide a creative space for children with disabilities. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 718-592-9700. queensmuseum.org.

Sensory Sensitive Sundays

WHEN: Through May 7: Sundays, 9-11 am WHERE: Chuck E. Cheese’s, 40-24 College Point Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Children with special needs can enjoy food, games, and more with reduced lighting and noise, led by a trained and caring staff the first Sunday of every month. Check the website for updates.

WANT TO GO? Prices vary. 718-321-0400. chuckecheese.com.

HOLIDAY FUN Easter Minis at Tiny you by Marie Crowne Photography

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 11-2pm WHERE: Tiny You, 10-50 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Parents can bring their little ones in their best Easter Sunday look to pose and take home a memory of Easter 2017. The price includes a 10-minute session and one digital download.

WANT TO GO? $45. 718-839-4133. shoptiny.nyc.

Photos with the Easter Bunny

WHEN: Through April 15: daily, 11am-8pm WHERE: Queens Center Mall Level 3, JCPenney Wing, 90-15 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst AGES: All WHAT: Hop on over to Queens Center Mall for a visit with the Easter Bunny. Photo packages available, and families can visit the Easter Bunny for free.

WANT TO GO? $25.99 and up for photo packages. 718-592-3901. shopqueenscenter.com.

Barnyard Egg Hunt

WHEN: Saturday, April 15, 11am-3pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: Egg hunts will be ongoing in the orchard and Whiskers the Bunny will be hopping about ready for photo-ops. There will be games, food, and more; bring your own baskets.

WANT TO GO? $10. 718-347-3276. queensfarm.org.

NYC Easter Parade FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 16, 10am-4pm WHERE: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Fifth Avenue between 49th and 57th streets, Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Every year New Yorkers show off their Easter Bonnets in this parade that marches north on Fifth Avenue, starting at 49th Street.

Come and watch or even bring your own bonnet. The best place to watch is from the area around St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

WANT TO GO? saintpatrickscathedral.org.

Earth Day Craft FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, April 19, 4pm WHERE: Elmhurst Library, 86-07 Broadway, Elmhurst

AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create something to celebrate our beautiful home: the Earth!

WANT TO GO? 718-271-1020. queenslibray.org.

Earth Day Craft Activity FREE

WHEN: Thursday, April 20, 3:30pm WHERE: Bay Terrace Library, 18-36 Bell Blvd., Bayside AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Enjoy creating and decorating a craft for Earth Day, using recycled materials and other supplies.

WANT TO GO? 718-423-7004. queenslibrary.org.

Earth Day Family Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 7pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Enjoy a serene sunset nature walk through APEC’s trails and discover springtime treasures. Then, gather around for fireside Native American stories and music honoring Mother Earth and balance in the natural world. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $5. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Tenth Annual National Grid Earth Day Celebration FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 3pm WHERE: Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College, 2900 Avenue H, Flatbush AGES: All WHAT: This celebration is designed to educate families on how they can play a role in caring for the Earth and creating a more sustainable future. Interactive family activities, educational materials, and giveaway items will highlight the need for conserving energy, recycling in the home, and being aware of the environmental and global issues that we face today.

WANT TO GO? 718-951-4500. brooklyncenter.org. ››

FOREST

PARK CAROUSEL

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Global Mashup #3: Mali Meets Morocco

WHEN: Friday, April 21, 8pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Sylvain Leroux and Source present a danceable mix of music from Mali with a jazz inflection, and Rachid Halihal and Fez present Moroccan classical and folk music. Each band plays a set, then the two meet and jam.

WANT TO GO? $16. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Peter White: Jazz Concert

MINI

MUSICIANS An April Fools’ Day Celebration with The Wayne Tucker Quintet FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 2:30pm WHERE: Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Wayne Tucker is a trumpet player, arranger, and composer based in New York City, and a graduate of the jazz studies program at SUNY Purchase.

WANT TO GO? 718-990-0700. queenslibrary.org.

Three Centuries of Music for the French Horn FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, 2pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A recital featuring the French horn in music from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries with Peggy Dearmond on piano; Francisco Donaruma on horn; and Masako Yanagita on violin.

WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Flushing Town Hall Monthly Jazz Jam

WHEN: Wednesday, April 5, 7-10pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: A jazz jam led by saxophonist Carol Sudhalter with Joe Tranchina on piano, Eric Lemon on bass, and Scott Neumann on drums.

WANT TO GO? $10. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Thursday Night Jazz: Ed Cherry Trio

WHEN: Thursday, April 13, 8pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for the Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Featuring emerging and established jazz musicians and their friends WANT TO GO? $10. 718-658-7400. jcal.org.

Queens Opera Theatre: Inaugural Season Preview FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 15, 7:30pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: An evening of highlights from opera and musical theater’s most beloved shows.

WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

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WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 8pm WHERE: Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre, Long Island AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Peter White has maintained a reputation as one of the most versatile and prolific acoustic guitarists on the contemporary jazz landscape.

WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 516-323-4444. madisontheatreny.org.

Herencia de Timbiquí: Afro-Colombian Music from the Pacific Coast

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 8pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This group reserves the traditional currulao music of enslaved Africans brought to Colombia, while infusing it with jazz and funk.

Currulao music uses call and response, and audiences are encouraged to sing-along with the group as they explore Afro-Colombian culture.

WANT TO GO? $16. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

QJOG 2017 Spring Jazz Fest FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 30, 12-10pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The Queens Jazz OverGround presents their annual Jazz Fest, a free, day-long series of jazz workshops and performances.

WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

SMARTY PANTS Alley ECOclub: Video Games Come to Life

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 12:30-2:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Learn about the natural science of games such as Pokémon and Minecraft. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $25. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Tinkering Weekend

WHEN: April 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, 1:30-3pm and 3:30-5pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: 5-17, adult WHAT: This workshop with tinkering activities encourages families to build, explore, and create together.

WANT TO GO? $16; $13 children ages 2-17. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Nutrition Workshops for Kids FREE

WHEN: Thursday, April 20, Thursday 4pm WHERE: Baisley Park Library, 117-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 5-12 WHAT: In this workshop presented by Community Healthcare Networks, kids will learn how the human body works, how to eat a balanced meal,

read and understand food labels, and how to measure healthy portion sizes.

WANT TO GO? 718-529-1590. queenslibrary.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME

National Poetry Month FREE

‘But I Am A Cat!’ FREE

WHEN: April 4-25, Monday-Saturday, 4pm WHERE: Peninsula Library, 95-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will celebrate National Poetry Month as they learn about various poets and their works, as well as create their own poetry.

WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

ARTech: Adventures in Art + Technology FREE

WHEN: Through April 29: Wednesday-Thursday, 3-7pm; SaturdaySunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: 459 W. 14th St., Meatpacking District, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A two-month long series of workshops, installations, and interactive activities in STEAM subjects.

WANT TO GO? $10. 212-889-0440. artech.splashthat.com.

Think Tank: It’s Explosive

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 1:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 7-9 WHAT: What happens when you mix baking soda with different things?

Children will explore their inner scientists with this fun-filled, hands-on experimenting class.

WANT TO GO? $24. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Science Fiction, Science Future

WHEN: Through April 30: Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5pm; SaturdaySunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: This exhibit gives visitors a deeper understanding of how science fiction ideas and concepts might become the science reality of tomorrow.

Hands-on exhibits incorporate robots, holograms, and augmented reality.

WANT TO GO? $16; $13 seniors and children ages 2-17. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

K2K FREE

WHEN: Through May 3: See website for schedule WHERE: Long Island City Library, 37-44 21st St., Long Island City AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Library staff will show participants how to use games, hands-on activities, and stories that help build the most important language and social skills. Children will be able to keep the games and stories and use them again at home.

WANT TO GO? 718-752-3700. queenslibrary.org.

WHEN: Thursday, April 6, 4:30pm WHERE: Cambria Heights Library, 218-13 Linden Blvd., Cambria Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join author Jamee-Marie Edwards as she takes kids through Mr. Cat’s morning stroll when he meets a host of other fun-loving animals.

WANT TO GO? 718-528-3535. queenslibrary.org.

Poetic Queens: A Celebration of the Borough’s Literary Diversity, Part 1 FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 3pm WHERE: Sunnyside Library, 43-06 Greenpoint Ave., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: An afternoon of dynamic readings by this lineup of poets with distinct voices and varied experience.

WANT TO GO? 718-784-3033. queenslibrary.org.

Storytime & Craft FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 11, 2pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: A relaxing afternoon featuring nature-inspired stories, followed by a botanically themed craft activity.

WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Children’s Storytime FREE

WHEN: April 6-27, Thursdays, 11am WHERE: The Astoria Bookshop, 31-29 31st St., Astoria AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Listen to stories from authors and staff featuring selections from some of the current and classic children’s books.

WANT TO GO? 718-278-2665. astoriabookshop.com.

Family Storytime FREE

WHEN: Through May 27: Saturdays, 4pm WHERE: Long Island City Library, 37-44 21st St., Long Island City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children will hear fun interactive stories, and make new friends.

WANT TO GO? 718-752-3700. queenslibrary.org.

Toddler Time FREE

WHEN: Through June 20: Tuesdays, 10:30am WHERE: Long Island City Library, 37-44 21st St., Long Island City AGES: 2 and younger, adult WHAT: Children enjoy interactive storytelling, songs, rhymes, and a craft.

WANT TO GO? 718-752-3700. queenslibrary.org. ››

QueensParent 45

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EVENTS

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Ridgewood Reservoir Tour

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Phone # 718 323 6666 Fax # 718 323 6667

MENTION THIS AD FOR FREE GOODIE BAG FOR NEW PATIENTS! AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS • PRE SCHOOL • FREE FULL DAY UNIVERSAL PRE K

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Exciting Thematic unit curriculum with the progressive "Building Blocks Math Program"

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Outdoor Music Garden in our HUGE well stocked Playground

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Get advance notice on activities, Flexible Schedule • Low Rates Our FREE Extended Programs participate Ask in About group discussions and receive718-746-6107 special notices.

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NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions and receive special notices. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents 46

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

Join

NYMetroParents

Scavenger Hunt FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, 10am Get on activities, WHERE: Kissena Park,advance Rose and Oaknotice avenues, Flushing AGES: 5 and older participate in group discussions WHAT: On this family-friendly scavenger hunt with the Urban Park Rangers, participants will explore the hidden treasures of Kissena Park. and receive special notices.

WANT TO GO? 718-352-1769. nycgovparks.org.

Eels and Hudson River Theaters

WHEN: April 8-9, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wavewww.facebook.com/nymetroparents Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Hear about the relationship between eels and the health of the river, and our role as good river stewards. Create drawings, maps, and images of river residents, then create a diorama with movable parts.

WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Join

Pee Wee Folks Serving the Whitestone Community since 1981.

EVENTS

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 11am FREE WHERE: Highland Park, Vermont Place and Highland Boulevard, Glendale AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Explore this incredible natural resource in the heart of New York City. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? 718-352-1769. nych2o.org.

Sketching Spring

BUS SERVICE AVAILABLE • AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

ACTIVITIES

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

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WHEN: Tuesday, April 11, 1:30-3:30pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Participants will study spring and spend one, two, or three afternoons exploring the grounds and gardens. on activities, WANT TO GO?Get $25;advance $15 children.notice 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

NYMetroParents

in group Spring Breakparticipate Activities for Kids

discussions WHEN: April 11-14, Tuesday-Friday, 1-4pmnotices. and receive special

WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children get their hands dirty as they sift and search through www.facebook.com/nymetroparents the Exploration Station.

WANT TO GO? $6; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and younger. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 15, 11am-1pm WHERE: Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Pavillion and Astrial Fountain, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the spring blossoming of the cherry trees at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. This event features live taiko performances, a traditional Japanese chorus, a Japanese folk dance, and a tea ceremony.

WANT TO GO? 718-760-6560. queenstheatre.org.

Tulip Time

WHEN: April 22-23, Saturday-Sunday, 12-4pm

WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate spring with a visit to QBG during the peak of tulip season with tours, bulb-planting demonstrations, and crafts for kids.

WANT TO GO?$6; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children ages 3 and younger. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

NURSERY SCHOOL & PRE K:

The Butterfly Conservatory

• AM/PM Classes • Program encourages socialization and diversity • Multicultural curriculum • Small group hands on instruction • Music & Movement • Outdoor Play Area • Indoor Gym Program

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

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

NEW for FALL 2017! m Music Progra s se as Cl for PM Included

Coming up next month:

SPECIAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS

MAY 6: Cesar Millan LIVE! at Kupferberg Center for the Arts, Flushing

Pre-K OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL HOUR

MAY 28: QPAC Fundraiser Lights, Camera, Music! at Queensborough Performing Arts Center, Bayside

Contact us: 718-268-7980 | Email: nurseryschool@thecitg.org citgnurseryschool.org | 50 Ascan Avenue, Forest Hills

MAY 29: Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade on Northern Boulevard from Great Neck Road to 245th Street, Douglaston

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

QueensParent 49

WHERE-TO GUIDE

Catch a Minor League Baseball Game ››

Research by Sabrina Sooknanan

Courtesy Long Island Ducks

Take the family out to a ball game! For a fraction of the cost of a Mets or Yankees game, you can check out some of the sport’s up-andcoming big hitters at a local minor league game and soak up tons of fun perks for kids, such as hanging out on the field before the game, meeting the players, and free admission to some games. Please note that dates and prices are projected for the season. We recommend confirming details before heading out to the ballpark.

Season begins April 20; home game April 28 Tickets: $12-$15; discounts for groups of 25 or more Kids ages 14 and younger can join the Kids Club for discounts and special events.

Members are invited to Kids Club Day, when they can go on a behind-the-scenes tour of Bethpage Ballpark and get a chance to run the bases.

Somerset Patriots TD Bank Ballpark, 1 Patriots Park, Bridgewater, NJ somersetpatriots.com Season begins April 21 Tickets: $9-$25 Children can join the Somerset Sluggers Kids Club for special opportunities such as posing with the entire Somerset Patriots team in the Somerset Sluggers team poster, exclusive Q-and-A’s with Patriots Players, and ballpark tours. All-Star birthday parties are available.

Long Island Ducks mascot QuackerJack, Long Island’s Best Mascot for six consecutive years, enjoys time with a family during one of the team’s regular season home games.

New York City Brooklyn Cyclones Class A Short-Season New York-Penn League (New York Mets) MCU Park, 1904 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn brooklyncyclones.com Season begins June 17 Tickets: $10-$17 in advance Through the Field of Dreams program, youth baseball, softball, and Little League teams can stand side by side, in uniform, with the Cyclones while the national anthem plays at the start of the game (you must purchase a minimum of 15 tickets to participate in this program). Fireworks are free after every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday home game. On Sunday Fundays, kids can run the bases after the game and get the chance to play catch on the field before the game.

50

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Staten Island Yankees Class A Short-Season New York-Penn League (New York Yankees) Richmond County Bank Ballpark, 75 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island siyanks.com Season begins June 19 See website for ticket prices. The stadium offers group tickets that include discount ticket prices, fan gear, a chance for kids (ages 12 and younger) to run the bases after the game, and the opportunity to join Scooter’s Kids Club.

Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Double A – Triple A

Long Island Ducks Bethpage Ballpark, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip liducks.com

Bridgeport Bluefish The Ballpark at Harbor Yard, 500 Main St., Bridgeport, CT bridgeportbluefish.com Season begins April 28 Tickets: $12; discounted rates for groups of 20 or more Kids ages 13 and younger can join the Kids Club for special events and activities throughout the season and during the offseason. Young athletes can join a Youth League Outing to accompany the players on the field during the national anthem, join the players on the field during team introductions, play catch with the players before the game, and more; see the website for details.

Lancaster Barnstormers Clipper Magazine Stadium, 650 N. Prince St., Lancaster, PA lancasterbarnstormers.com Season begins April 21; home game April 28 Tickets: $7-$13

nymetroparents.com/where-to Several ticket packages available for groups and families.

Children ages 12 and younger can gain one free lawn admission ticket if they wear their local, organized sport uniform to any home game.

York Revolution PeoplesBank Park, 5 Brooks Robinson Way, York, PA yorkrevolution.com Season begins April 28 Tickets: $8-$14 Kids can join Rookie Revs ($27) for special events, and receive six ticket vouchers for any game.

Tickets: $6-$22 Kids ages 12 and younger can become members of the Red Robin Kid’s Club (free membership). They’ll also get a chance to receive invitations to special events, exclusive Yard Goats giveaways, a 10-percent discount at the team store, and club ticket packages for parents

of members. See the website for details.

Connecticut Tigers Class A Short-Season New YorkPenn League (Detroit Tigers) Dodd Stadium, 14 Stott Ave., Norwich cttigers.com

Season begins June 19 Tickets: $10-$20; groups of 15 or more receive a discount rate Birthday parties and group outings available at games.

There will be a baseball clinic for aspiring players ages 6-15, the date is TBD at the time of publication.

Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/ballparks.

Southeast New York Hudson Valley Renegades Class A Short-Season New YorkPenn League (Tampa Bay Rays) Dutchess Stadium, 1500 Route 9D, Wappingers Falls hvrenegades.com Season begins June 19; home game June 21 See website for ticket prices. The Renegades offers special discounts and packages for groups of 15 or more. There will be an All-Scout Sleepover on June 1.

Rockland Boulders CanAm League Palisades Credit Union Park, 1 Palisades Credit Union Park Drive, Pomona rocklandboulders.com Season begins May 18 Tickets: $11-$16 Kids ages 12 and younger can get on the field every Sunday and run the bases after the game. Kids are also allowed to play catch on the field after the games.

Connecticut Hartford Yard Goats Double-A (Colorado Rockies) Dunkin Donuts Park, 1214 Main St., Hartford yardgoatsbaseball.com Season begins April 6; home game April 13

QueensParent 51

camp GUIDE 2017

The Kew-Forest School Summer at Kew-Forest

96-19 69th Ave., Forest Hills allkidscanlearn.net allkidscanlearn@gmail.com

50 Ascan Ave., Forest Hills 718-268-7980 citgnurseryschool.org nurseryschool@thecitg.org

Kuei Luck Enrichment Center

195-05 69th Ave., Fresh Meadows 718-679-9908 kueiluck.com

35-57 89th St., Jackson Heights 718-639-1425; 917-774-3411 paconyschool.com info@paconyschool.com

Countryside Montessori School

Kweller Advanced Test Preparation

Queens College Summer Camp

All Kids Can Learn

All My Children Daycare and Nursery School

Various locations; call for information or check us online Queens: 347-708-7827 Brooklyn: 347-708-7827 Manhattan: 212-419-5416 allmychildrendaycare.com info@allmychildrendaycare.com

All Star Studios

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

American Dance & Drama

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

Arts Dance Music Camp of Rego Park The DanceSource 98-11 Queens Blvd. (at 65th Avenue), Rego Park / Forest Hills 718-997-1278 dancesource.net info@dancesource.net Varta Academy of Musical Arts 97-15 64th Road, 2nd Floor, Rego Park 718-275-2725 info@vartamusic.com vartamusic.com

Blue Dolphin Summer Camp

80-22 Parsons Blvd., Queens 718-847-6470 bluedolphincamp.com info@bluedolphincamp.com

Camp Huntington

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com dfalk@camphuntington.com

Christ the King Summer Camps

Joseph Arbitello and Cara Fragias, directors Ages: 3-16 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 718-366-7454 ctkny.org ckkids@ctkny.org

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The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School

354 Lakeville Road, Lower Level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 cmsgn.com; info@cmsgn.com

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp 183-02 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-380-4145 hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org

Hug Music, Creative & Nurturing Music Lessons for Everybody Music Lessons and Music Therapy 112-01 75th Ave., Lower Level, Forest Hills 718-487-4309 hugmusicny.com contact@hugmusicny.com

ISTEIN Education Center

107-06 71st Road, 2nd floor, Forest Hills 718-575-8877 isteinny.com; info@isteinny.com

Ivy Day School

65-01 Kissena Blvd., Flushing 718-460-6366 70-44 Kissena Blvd., Flushing 718-880-1888 104-70 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills 718-997-1997 ivydayschool.com dinam@ivydayschool.com

Jack & Jill Nursery Schools

43-23 Colden St., Flushing 718-762-1218 Jack & Jill Nursery School II 68-05 Fresh Meadow Lane, Fresh Meadows 718-939-8687 jackandjillschools.com

JEI Learning Centers

Auburndale: 347-408-4098 Floral Park: 718-347-3138 Fresh Meadows: 718-740-7888 Great Neck: 516-482-2234 Rego Park: 718-441-3762 Forest Hills: 917-702-8505 jei.com

Kent Prep

194-11A Northern Blvd., Bayside 718-423-5757; kentprep.com

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

119-17 Union Turnpike, Forest Hills 718-268-4667 x108 kewforest.org summer@kewforest.org

Kweller Prep Queens 104-40 Queens Blvd., Suite 1C, Forest Hills Kweller Prep Manhattan 370 Lexington Ave., Suite 800, Manhattan kwellerprep.com info@kwellerprep.com

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, director LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160; liu.edu/giftedyouth

Magic Day Camp

216-15 Peck Ave., Bayside 718-634-8109 magicdaycamp.com

Mill Basin Day Camp

5945 Strickland Ave., Brooklyn 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com

Music Together® With Music and Me

Celebrating our new look with our new name! Wendy DeAngelis, center director (Mommy, Music & Me Inc. since 2003) 718-229-0033 Gym-Azing in Astoria Shotokai USA Karate in Bayside Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing The Reform Temple of Forest Hills in Forest Hills The Church-in-The-Gardens in Forest Hills Tiger Schulmann’s MMA in Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com

Noah’s Ark Preparatory

38-20 Bell Blvd., Bayside 718-279-4251 62-48 Mount Olivet Crescent, Middle Village 347-335-0044 noahsarkschool.com noahsarkpreparatory@gmail.com

Oasis Day Camp

Queensborough Community College, Bayside Library Room 14 (basement) 646-519-5055 oasischildren.com bayside@oasischildren.com

Pee Wee Folks

12-45 Clintonville St., Whitestone 718-746-6107 peeweefolkspreschool.com

Performing Arts Conservatory of New York

July 3-Aug. 24 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Queens qccamp.com

Rainbow Child Development Center

250-21 Northern Blvd., Little Neck 718-225-8600 77-40 164th St., Fresh Meadows 718-969-1900 133-20 Avery Ave., Flushing 718-321-1610 132-25 Pople Ave., Flushing 718-353-3628 rainbowchildlearning.com info@rainbowchildlearning.com

Rhythm NY

213-01 Northern Blvd., Bayside 70-68 Kissena Blvd., 3F, Flushing 718-224-3364 rhythmny.com jackkim@rhythmny.com

RoboMindTech S.T.E.M. Education Center: Creativity, Science, Robotics & L-E-G-O Learning Fun 185-10A Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-264-ROBO (7626) robomindtech.com robomindtech@gmail.com

Samuel Field Y Day Camp

58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-225-6750 x261 sfy.org agavora@sfy.org dschaefer@sfy.org

Soccer Friends USA Inc.

106-06 Queens Blvd., 3rd Floor Gym, Forest Hills 718-261-2403 347-756-2568 (para Español) soccerfriendsusa.com soccerfriendsusa@hotmail.com

Tiny Footsteps

167-01 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-969-5500 tinyfootstepsny@yahoo.com

World of Discovery Day Camp 718-229-3037 worldofdiscovery.org info@worldofdiscovery.org

CAMP MARKETPLACE

A

T SUM M ER IS RIGH NER! ROUND T HE CO R

COM E W

IT H US

TO CAM P

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DAY CAMP

SAMUEL FIELD Y DAY CAMPS Low Camper / Staff Ratios Customizable Session Options Camps for Children with Special Needs Elective Programming Extended Hours (AM/PM)

Come take a tour of our

Transportation Options

beautiful campgrounds!

Indoor & Outdoor Programs

Sunday, April 2nd, 2017 10:00-12:OO PM

Exciting Trips & Travel Options 1199, ACD, & HRA Accepted

75 Colonial Springs Rd. Wheatley Heights

718-225-6750 X261, 264

Bayside @ Qcc

Premier camp in every way! »Programs for ages 3-16 »8:30am - 5:30pm »Extended hours available »Healthy, hot lunch option »AC transportation available »Low staff/child ratios »Flexible enrollment

Fun For Everyone!

register today!

646-519-5055 www.oasischildren.com @oasisdaycamps

»Sports, games & outdoor adventure »Visual arts, crafts & performing arts »Special events & theme days »Carnivals & color war »Traditional camp activities » Red Cross Swim Instruction

Join us for an info session!

Queensborough Community College (222-05 56th Ave, Bayside, NY 11364) April 1, 2017 at 11:00 am in LB-26 April 30, 2017 at 11:30 am in LB-25

QueensParent 53

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Open House April 01st & 16th 11 am - 2 pm

HILLCREST JEWISH CENTER DAY CAMP

Like us on

Follow us on

@hjcdaycamp

“The Camp Where Everybody Knows Your Name”

Extended hours for Working Parents • LARGE INDOOR POOL

OPEN HOUSES

EVERY SUNDAY FROM 10AM - 12PM WEDNESDAYS FROM 7PM - 9PM SPACES LIMITED!!!

FULL & PARTIAL SEASON PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

A Program For Children From 4 - 14 Years of age • Red Cross Swim Program • Krav Maga • Hip-Hop & Gymnastics Instruction • Sports (Basketball, Soccer, Softball,Volleyball) • Music & Arts and Crafts • Free Camp T-Shirt & Group Photo

54

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

• Weekly Theme Days • Large Gymnasium & Recreation Room • Catered Kosher Lunches & PM Snacks • End of the Summer Carnival • Oneg Shabbat Services • Day Trips (Adventureland, Laser Bounce, Splish Splash and more)

• Early Morning Supervision • Family Swim Day & Movie Night • Overnight Trip • In Camp Overnight • Weekly Cookouts • Door to Door Transportation • Color War

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Don’t let your child waste their summer!

Summer Camp 2017 Tuition starting at $1500 for 7 weeks.

Join Kuei Luck Enrichment Center Summer Camp this summer.

Our program is a balance of academics and fun activities. Students will engage in classroom learning in the morning with a licensed

kuei luck enrichment center

718.679.9908 www.kueiluck.com 195-05 69th Ave, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

Afterschool • Chinese School • Enrichment • Summer Camp • Test Prep SAT I/II • Regents • NYS Statewide • Reading • Math • Science • Writing Early Bird Discount

Save $125 when you register by April 30!

Monday - Friday, June 26 - August 11, 9:00am - 4:30pm

(Ask us about our other discounts, too!)

Get a head-start on September when you register for Academics or Combo Camp!

Contact us for more info or to schedule a private tour!

- Flexible Scheduling by the Day - Academics & Recreation - Before/After Camp Care - Cooking - Hands-on Science - Swimming - Field Trips and More!

Come to our Open House!

Saturday, April 22 10:00am-12:00pm

119-17 Union Turnpike, Forest Hills, NY 11375 (718) 268-4667 | summer@kewforest.org www.kewforest.org

QueensParent 55

CAMP MARKETPLACE

FUN SUMMER ING THE K T S I R H C AT CHRIST THE KING ROYAL’S

SC

HO

OL

SUM

M

E R OL

MP

MUS

CA

IC

SOCCER CAMP

For Boys & Girls – Ages 7-16 Week #1 July 10 - July 14 Week #2 July 17 - July 21

EDUCATION CENTER

HO

OL

CH

HO

ER

SC

SC

AFT

ISTEIN

S INE

E

NOW ENROLLING

Mon-Fri • 8am-6pm

If you register by June 1 st

ACTIVITIES

ON SIBLINGS

EVENTS

MORE

Please visit us at isteinny.com 718.575.8877 | info@isteinny.com 107-06 71 st Rd, 2 nd Floor, Forest Hills, NY 11375

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH

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

Join

NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions and receive special notices.

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 37th annual summer program for gifted children. The summer program runs on Monday to Friday from July 3-28. The program is open to gifted children entering grades 2-8 in September 2017. The program expands students’ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

Follow us on Twitter

INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

MORE

CHEERLEADING CAMP For Girls – Ages 7-16 August 14 - August 18

CK KIDS’ AMERICAN DANCE & DRAMA CAMP For Girls – Ages 3-14 July 3 - August 11 (*no camp July 4th) All Games and Camp Activities Take Place on the CK Campus.

Register Online at: www.ctkny.org CKKids@ctkny.org 718.366.7454 68-02 Metropolitan Avenue, Middle Village, NY 11379

Join

NYMetroParents

Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions Astoriaand • Bayside • Flushing • Forest Hills • Glendale receive special notices.

Schedule your FREE Trial Class Today!

Weekday & Weekend Fall, Winter, Spring & Summer Sessions www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

718.229.0033 • MusicTogetherwithMusicandMe.com

NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions and receive special notices.

Admission Admi miissio sio i n iis h highly ighly s selective and enrollment is limited.

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

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56

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For Boys & Girls – Ages 7-16 Boys Week #1 July 24 - July 28 Boys Week #2 July 31 - August 4 Boys Week #3 August 7 - August 11 Girls Week August 14 - August 18

July 3 rd - August 18 th

$100 $50 10% OFF OFF OFF

For information call 516-299-2160 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth

BASKETBALL CAMP

SUMMER CAMP

Academic Enrichment | Music | Science | Art & Crafts | Computers | Field Trips

If you register by May 1 st

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CAMP MARKETPLACE lished Estab ars 43 Ye

Summer Camp Register Now!

You May Sign Up for 1-5 Days Per Week Full Day / Half Day / Single Classes July 5th-August 11th, Mon-Fri •Ages 3-14

NOAH’S ARK MP SUMMER CA M

2-10 year olds Full Day Camp • 9:00am-5:00pm

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

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 THEATRE CAMP: Children will put on a favorite Broadway Musical

New for Summer 2017 Science & Math Enrichment Fun!

Summer Dance Classes

Summer Dance, Drama & Vocal Classes

Single Classes 5:30pm to 9:30pm

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

Competitive Rates Weekly Swim Classes at Cross Island YMCA Weekly Trips Dance Daily Sports Program Weekly Themed Parties Water Activities, Slides, Wading Pool Park and Sprinkler Fun Academic Review Sessions Breakfast, Lunch, 2 Snacks Games, Crafts and much much more

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For more info call: (718) 279-4251

62-48 Mt. Olivet Crescent Middle Village, NY 11379 For more info call: (347) 335-0044

www.noahsarkschool.com QueensParent 57

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Back by popular demand!

Christ The King Summer Camp 2017

Dance/Theatre Arts/Sports Camp for ages 3-14

American Dance and Drama Studio & Christ the King High School have joined together for the ultimate Summer Camp Experience!

Your Kid Can Be IN the

Circus!

Win 4 premium seats to Circus 1903 at The Theater at MSG and the chance for your child to go on stage and participate in the show!

Plus 2 other lucky winners will receive family four-packs

July 3rd-August 11th - 6 Week Program @ Christ The King Full Day or Half Day Options Available

You may sign up for 1-5 days per week.

Early Drop-Off/Late Pick Up Included Dance/Theatre Arts/Sports Camp Activities: Dance, Hip-Hop, Arts & Crafts, Jewelry Making, Acrobatics, Cooking, Computers, Drama on Camera, Vocal, Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer.

Outdoor playground â&#x20AC;˘ Moonbounce & Water Slides

ctkny.org Please Contact Cara Nicole for more info: 917 602-6271 68-02 Metropolitan Ave. Middle Village, NY 11379 58

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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nymetroparents.com/circus Circus 1903 is a brand new show for all ages; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the circus reimagined, with over two hours of edge-of-your-seat entertainment featuring an incredible cast of the most unique, spellbinding and thrilling circus acts from all four corners of the globe. Sensational puppetry puts elephants back in the ring as never seen before while Ringmaster Willy Whipsnade takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the magic of the circus. *No purchase necessary. Open to individuals who are at least 18 years of age, a legal US resident residing within 100 miles of New York City at the time of entry, and who are the parent or legal guardian of a child born between March 21, 2012, and April 12, 2005. Ends 11:59 p.m. ET 4/11/17. Must be available to attend 6pm performance on 4/15/17 if Grand Prize winner. Void outside stated area and where prohibited. See Official Rules for complete details.

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Arts, Crafts, Dance, Music, Field Trips and more.

Choose between weekly or monthly attendance.

For more information contact The DanceSource 718-997-1278, info@dancesource.net and Varta Academy of Musical Arts 718-275-2725, info@vartamusic.com

Register Now for 2017!!!

35-57 89th Street Jackson Heights, NY 718-639-1425 • 917-774-3411 www.paconyschool.com info@paconyschool.com

Dorney Park Basketball Soccer Basketball Bowling Roller Skating Karaoke Swimming Fishing Arts & Crafts GaGa-Ball Lacrosse

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Blue Dolphin Summer Camp Open House Thursday April 6th

4:30am - 6:30pm Saturday April 29th

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CAMP MARKETPLACE

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

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

• Fully affiliated with the American Montessori Society since 1998.

• Early drop-off and Extended day available.

Register Now for Summer Camp

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

Serving Flushing, Rego Park, Forest Hills and Jamaica since 1994

Limited Space!

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allmychildrendaycare.com | 347-708-7827 Private Tuition and Government Subsidized Programs.

Visit our blog at allmychildrendaycare.com/blog A Great Interactive Resource for Parents of Young Children

SOC SOCCER Specialized Sports Program Specialized Sports Program • Gymnastics • Karate • Swimming • Music Specialized Sports Program • Gymnastics • Karate • Swimming • Music

Ages 18 Months & Up

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OPEN HOUSES 2017 Blue Dolphin Summer Camp

80-22 Parsons Blvd., Queens 718-847-6470 bluedolphincamp.com info@bluedolphincamp.com Join us for an open house: April 6 from 4:30-6:30pm; April 29 from 11am–1pm; May 4 and 18, and June 6 from 4:30-6:30pm.

Countryside Montessori School

354 Lakeville Road, Lower Level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 cmsgn.com info@cmsgn.com Join us for an open house on May 7 from 2-5pm.

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp

183-02 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-380-4145 hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org Open houses offered on Sundays in April from 10am-12pm, and on Wednesdays from 7-9pm. Sunday tours, registration, slideshow presentation, and Q-and-A sessions.

Hug Music, Creative & Nurturing Music Lessons for Everybody Music Lessons and Music Therapy

112-01 75th Ave., Lower Level, Forest Hills 718-487-4309 hugmusicny.com contact@hugmusicny.com Hug Music will host open house registration on Saturdays, April 1 and 8 from 9am-4pm. Please contact us for more information.

The Kew-Forest School Summer at Kew-Forest

119-17 Union Turnpike, Forest Hills 718-268-4667 x108 kewforest.org summer@kewforest.org A summer program for children entering pre-K to eighth grades! Visit our open house, Saturday, April 22, 10am-12pm. Register before to receive a free gift! Early registration discounts available!

Magic Day Camp

216-15 Peck Ave., Bayside 718-634-8109 magicdaycamp.com Come to our open house sessions on Sundays, April 9 and 23 starting at 1pm at Jib Lanes. Summer magic is here with swimming daily and three trips each week!

Mill Basin Day Camp

5945 Strickland Ave., Brooklyn 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Join us for an open house on April 1 and 16.

Music Together® With Music and Me

Celebrating our new look with our new name! Wendy DeAngelis, center director (Mommy, Music & Me Inc. since 2003) 718-229-0033 Gym-Azing in Astoria Shotokai USA Karate in Bayside

Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing The Reform Temple of Forest Hills in Forest Hills The Church-in-The-Gardens in Forest Hills Tiger Schulmann’s MMA in Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com Call or click to schedule a free trial class with your family at one of our open house classes and get ready to make Music Together® with Music and Me!

Oasis Day Camp in Bayside

Queensborough Community College, Bayside Library Room 14 (basement) 646-519-5055 oasischildren.com bayside@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session on April 1, 11am-1pm LB-26; April 30, 11:30am-12:30pm, tour 12:45-2pm; May 13, 11am-1pm LB-25; May 14, 11:30am-12:30pm, tour 12:45-2pm; June 3. 11:30am12:30pm, tour 12:45-2pm.

Queens College Summer Camp

65-30 Kissena Blvd.

July 3-Aug. 24 qccamp.com Join us for an open house at Queens College Campus-Fitzgerald Gymnasium, on April 8 and 23, May 7 and 20, and June 3, at 10am.

Redeemer Lutheran School

6926 Cooper Ave., Glendale 718-821-6670 rlgschool.org Join us for an open house Wednesday, April 26 from 6-8pm featuring “Happy Camper” Book Fair; Thursday, May 25 from 6-8pm; and Saturday, June 10 from 10am-1pm.

Rhythm NY

213-01 Northern Blvd., Bayside 70-68 Kissena Blvd., 3F, Flushing 718-224-3364 rhythmny.com; jackkim@rhythmny.com Rhythm NY will host open houses on Sundays during April and May, 9am-2pm. Sign-up is required, please visit our website

RoboMindTech S.T.E.M. Education Center Creativity, Science, Robotics & L-E-G-O Learning Fun

185-10A Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-264-ROBO (7626) MPM Math Center 25 Cuttermill Road, No. 4, Great Neck robomindtech@gmail.com 718-264-7626; 516-418-6102 robomindtech.com; robomindtech@gmail.com Join us for an open house on April 2 from 5-6:30pm (Great Neck) and April 9 from 1-2pm (Fresh Meadows). Please RSVP via email or phone.

Samuel Field Y Day Camp

58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-225-6750 x261 sfy.org; agavora@sfy.org; dschaefer@sfy.org Come check out our Camp Open House on Sunday, April 2 from 10am-12pm at the Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds located at 75 Colonial Springs, Wheatley Heights.

QueensParent 61

Professional services

Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS AVENUE ORTHODONTICS 150-33 14th Ave., Suite 100, Whitestone 718-767-8400; avenueortho.com Dr. Eleni Michailidis and Dr. Abraham Chahine are highly trained orthodontic specialists. Schedule a complimentary consultation at Avenue Orthodontics to learn about the options available for your entire family.

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Locations across Nassau and Suffolk: 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.

FAMILY TRAVEL ROSHNI CRUISE PLANNERS AN AMERICAN EXPRESS TRAVEL REPRESENTATIVE 718-997-8888 iwantyoutotravel.com rkarnavat@cruiseplanners.com Specializing in customized vacation packages for families or groups to any destination, worldwide. Please contact Roshni at 718-997-8888 or rkarnavat@ cruiseplanners.com for a free quote.

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE YAN KALANDAROV, AGENT, NEW YORK LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY 917-403-0715 ykalandarov@ft.newyorklife.com When it comes to life insurance it 62

helps to get a little professional advice.

Call me today to set up a time to talk.

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

THE LAW OFFICES OF JOSEPH H. NIVIN, P.C. 118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 1220, Forest Hills 347-642-0376 153-01 Jamaica Ave., Suite 201, Jamaica The Chanin Building 122 E. 42nd St., Suite 2100, Manhattan nivinlaw.com; jhnivin@nivinlaw.com The Law Offices of Joseph H. Nivin, P.C. focuses on family and matrimonial law, including contested and uncontested matrimonial proceedings, custody, visitation, orders of protection, child support, spousal maintenance, and paternity.

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

HUG MUSIC, CREATIVE & NURTURING MUSIC LESSONS FOR EVERYBODY MUSIC LESSONS AND MUSIC THERAPY 112-01 75th Ave., Lower Level, Forest Hills 718-487-4309; hugmusicny.com contact@hugmusicny.com We offer various fun and nurturing music classes, including music lessons

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

on multiple instruments, music therapy for children with special needs, and baby-toddler music classes.

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

LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Locations across Nassau and Suffolk: 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.

STEPS TO SOCIALIZATION 13 S. Bayles Ave., Port Washington 516-767-0266 Steps to Socialization was created to help children who have difficulty socializing. We teach children how to think socially, step by step. Working in small groups, we cover a variety of topics, including how to establish and maintain friendships and initiating and maintaining conversations.

SPECIALTY APPAREL BRAVO! DANCE BOUTIQUE 108-12 72nd Ave., Forest Hills 718-309-9787 bravodanceboutique.com bravodanceboutique@gmail.com Bravo! Dance Boutique understands the value of community. Our mission

is to be able to provide local families the convenience of obtaining dance apparel at competitive prices.

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 VILLAGE EAST GIFTED: ENRICHMENT CENTER FOR THE GIFTED LEARNER Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted provides after-school enrichment and private tutoring. Enriching every qualified, gifted child. We are also a John Hopkins CTY info and SAT testing center.

WOMEN’S HEALTH VIVAEVE 888-749-7888 Main Office: 108-16 63 Road, Forest Hills Surgical Center: 25-15 Crescent St., Astoria vivaeve.com info@vivaeve.com VivaEve specializes in providing comprehensive counseling and UFE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization) procedures to women looking for a medically advanced, safe alternative to the major surgery commonly used to treat fibroids.

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

PARTY PLACES @ PLAY AMUSEMENTS 229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com Have your next party at the newly renovated @ Play Amusements! It offers 40,000 square feet of fun, ranging from 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, and roller coaster to a carousel, disco room, and laser tag!

AMERICAN DANCE & DRAMA 188-22 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-479-8522 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village americandanceanddramastudio.com We are one of Queens’s largest and most exciting birthday party locations, offering dress-up, disco, and gymnastics

parties. We also offer bubbles and fog machines, cotton candy, plus crazy craft, and princess parties!

BOUNCEU OF COLLEGE POINT Whitepoint Center, 13225 14th Ave., College Point 646-883-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/college-point-ny collegepoint.ny@bounceu.com BounceU of College Point is where birthdays come to life! We provide the ultimate private party and play experience. Come celebrate with us today!

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

Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties.

FANTASY FOREST AMUSEMENT PARK FOREST PARK CAROUSEL Fantasy Forest Amusement Park at the Flushing Meadows Carousel 111th Street and 55th Avenue, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, next to the Queens Zoo fantasyforestnyc.com info@nycarousel.com Ready for a thrilling and fun birthday party? Our package includes private

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

seating area, unlimited rides, games, goodie bags, and a host to help.

FOREST PARK CAROUSEL Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive, Woodhaven forestparkcarousel.com info@nycarousel.com Enjoy a classic carousel-themed birthday party. Includes 2 hours in VIP party tent, unlimited rides, games, goodie bags, and a host to help.

MUSIC TOGETHER® WITH MUSIC AND ME Celebrating our new look with our new name!

Wendy DeAngelis, center director (Mommy, Music & Me Inc. since 2003) Gym-Azing in Astoria Shotokai USA Karate in Bayside Babies “R” Us in College Point Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing The Reform Temple of Forest Hills in Forest Hills The Church-in-the-Gardens in Forest Hills Tiger Schulmann’s MMA in Glendale LICAM in Long Island City 718-229-0033 musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com We provide unique birthday party musical experiences for 1st through 6th birthdays. Call us to customize your child’s musical birthday. We can also come to your space.

RAISING ASTORIA 26-11 23rd Ave., Astoria 347-669-3711 raisingastoria.com

info@raisingastoria.com Have a memorable birthday party at our self-service venue. Bring your own food, drinks, and decorations, and we will provide a fun, spacious environment with toys, music, disco lights, and a bounce castle.

SOCCER FRIENDS USA INC. 106-06 Queens Blvd., 3rd Floor Gym, Forest Hills 718-261-2403 347-756-2568 (para Español) soccerfriendsusa.com soccerfriendsusa@hotmail.com Soccer Friends USA wants to celebrate your child’s next birthday party with you! We offer soccer parties for children ages 2 and older at several fantastic locations.

THINKERTOTS 222-14 Union Turnpike, Bayside 718-740-1616 1818 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park 516-488-3414 thinkertots.com thinkertotsnhp@gmail.com We can custom design your party with open playtime and music or you can rent out our location. We provide theme paper goods.

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

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NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER QueensParent 63

Meet the Health Care

PROFESSIONAL

To be in this section, call 212-315-0800 or email nympads@davlermedia.com 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, is owner and operator of Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. Along with her group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders (adults and children). Intensive feeding therapy for individuals who suffer from texture and consistency aversions, and FEES— Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing—are also offered. There is a total of seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies and offering evening and Saturday hours.

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

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

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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS. All Star Studio.......................................22 DanceSource (The)..............................23 BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES @ Play Amusement..............................29 American Dance & Drama....................57 BounceU - College Point......................19 Fantasy Forest Amusement Park.........45 Forest Park Carousel............................43 Music Together with Music and Me......56 Soccer Friends, USA Inc......................60 YM-YWHA - Samuel Field ...................53 CAMPS All My Children Day Care.....................60 All Star Studio.......................................22 American Dance & Drama....................57 American Dance and Drama at Christ the King......................................58 Arts Dance Music Camp of Rego Park....59 Blue Dolphin Summer Day Camp.........59 Christ the King Continuing Education...56 Countryside Montessori School............60 DanceSource (The)..............................23 Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp.......54 Hug Music.............................................27 IStein....................................................56 Ivy Day School......................................21 Jack -N- Jill Nursery.............................28 JEI Learning Center..............................68 KENT Prep...........................................60 Kew Forest School (The)......................55 Kuei Luck Enrichment Center...............55 Magic Day Camp....................................9 Mill Basin Day Camp ...........................54 Music Together with Music and Me......56 Noah’s Ark............................................57 Oasis Children Services.......................53 Pee Wee Folks Pre School...................46 Performing Arts Conservatory..............59 Queens College Summer Camp...........51 Rhythm NY...........................................22 RoboMindTech......................................59 Soccer Friends, USA Inc......................60 The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School.....................................47 Tiny Footsteps......................................17 World of Discovery Camp.....................60 YM-YWHA - Samuel Field ...................53 Young People’s Day Camp - Queens...13

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QueensParent 65

Melissa Errico

SpecialParent

VOICES

Powerful Tunes

››

How music lessons helped my child with autism and sensory processing disorder By Michaela Searfoorce

A

s a former music teacher, I pride myself on all of the musical ways my children learn in our household. We have mastered the continents, days of the week, months of the year, and even our phone number and address through songs. My kids still can’t say their phone number without singing it.

My oldest son, James, was born with a chromosome defect and multiple disabilities, among them autism and sensory processing disorder. Needless to say, his sensory issues and my knack for singing loudly in the car or playing Christmas carols on the piano at home didn’t make for a peaceful household.

Instead of me passing on my love for music, we stopped attending concerts and started avoiding birthday parties just to circumvent the pre-song anxiety and the post-song meltdown. At school, I was called in more than once after James had become overwhelmed by a choir concert or classmate’s birthday. It reached a point where it became a given that if his class was performing in an assembly, James would stay back in the classroom. Even movie soundtracks or church hymns were enough to make him put a blanket over his head and start crying.

As a musician, this music-phobia was particularly upsetting for me. When James turned 7 we moved to Manhattan. New York City was chock-full of special needs everything, integrated classrooms, sports teams—and as I would soon discover, music classes. After being called several times to pick James up early due to birthday songs, fire alarms, and choir assemblies at school, I decided it was time for drastic measures. With minimal searching online I found Daniel’s Music Foundation, which provides music classes to children and adults with disabilities.

When I contacted DMF we were asked to come in for an interview, after which James was formally invited to join in on a drumming and percussion class as well as a recreational music and movement session. Incredibly, James seemed at ease both during the interview and the initial classes, in which he was able to participate as much or as little as he felt comfortable. The volunteers were helpful and friendly, and the other students were eager while not without their own struggles, which seemed to comfort James. It was as if he knew that music was being explored and shared in a safe space, which made the exposure to it less frightening.

It wasn’t until several weeks later, when James made it through his first classmate’s birthday without tears, that I realized something incredible was happening. Later that

month, he did not hesitate when we broached the topic about participating in a performance.

“Do you want to sing with your class? Up on a stage in front of a crowd?” I asked.

“Sure, why not? Everyone in my class will be there,” he reasoned.

But even considering this amazing progress, it was with no small amount of anxiety that I headed to his first winter concert at the end of the semester.

The auditorium was packed and the audience was very enthusiastic throughout the show. As James walked onto the stage for the last number, people began to cheer and clap along and I could see him starting to lose his composure. I felt a thrill of dread in my stomach—what had I been thinking putting James up on stage when he couldn’t even sit through his own birthday cake?

As I watched James grow more and more agitated and began formulating his escape route, a young man hopped up onto the stage next to James and whispered something into his ear. It was Michael Trush, one of DMF’s founders. Within moments he and James were high-fiving and the song reached its conclusion, with Michael and James still standing together. James stood on stage wearing a nervous, but triumphant smile.

That miraculous moment occurred eight years ago. I want to make the story more interesting and say it was a long road with detours and U-turns, with setbacks and trials, but it was nothing so dramatic. It was more like finally finding the right exit off of the highway and smooth sailing to our destination from that point on. Many semesters later, James has performed on stage with DMF nearly a dozen times, including with the New York Yankees during HOPE Week and on the field at a Brooklyn Cyclones game. He sings hymns loudly at church and “Happy Birthday” to his siblings. There is a continuous stream of Michael Jackson and John Williams blasting out of his room, and I still can’t help but smile when I ask him to turn it down a little.

Michaela Searfoorce is a home-schooling mother of six children. She makes time to write in the wee hours. You can find more of her stories at thefoorce.com and thecentralparkzoo.com

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

State Senator Leroy Comrie and Councilman I. Daneek Miller, invite you to the

SPRiNG FLING FAMILY FUN DAY

Rain or Shine

SATURDAY APRIL 22nd 12PM-4PM St. Albans Park, Jamaica, New York (Between Sayres Ave and 111th Ave)

Activities will include: Kidz Zone games, arts and crafts, face-painting Music and live entertainment Health screenings for all ages Zumba class And much more!

For information about this event, visit:

AffinityPlan.org/SpringFling

For more information about Affinity, call:

866.731.8001

TTY/TDD Users: 800.662.1220 Social Media Icons 2017:

QueensParent 67

S MM R RE

DAILY FUN ACTIVITIES AND BRAIN BUIILDING JEI CLASSES!

kEEP LEARNING ALL YEAR!

JEI’s summer programs are the best defense against summer learning loss.

Reinforce key foundational skills or get a sneak peak at next year’s concepts in a fun, supportive environment.

✓ STATE ALIGNED CURRICULUM ✓ FOCUS ON CONCEPTS & CRITICAL THINKING ✓ PERSONALIZED LEARNING PROGRAMS

Most programs for grades Pre-K to 9th

CONTACT US: Auburndale

THE JEI ADVANTAGE

Fresh Meadows

Floral Park

Great Neck

Forest Hill

Rego Park