Qp 0418 by City Guide NY

Queens Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM APRIL 2018

BIRTHDAY

BLOWOUT! Special Tips for Milestone Parties

SpecialParent Autism Awareness Month • Myths to Ignore • Keeping Happy as a Couple—Challenges and All

5 Easy Steps to a Cleaner, Greener Home

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

Welcome Spring!

Enjoy the best from more than 50 premier shops, fine restaurants, entertainment venues, professional services and plenty of free parking.

The Bay Terrace 26th Ave. & Bell Blvd., Bayside NY 11360 Visit us at: http://www.bayterrace.com Visit us at: http://www.cordmeyer.net

QueensParent

contents table of

››

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

april 2018

24 37

special needs 16 Autism Myths You Should Ignore

Build a Budget That Works

Here’s how to make a spending plan that covers the things you need—and helps you save for the things you want.

April Activities

Buy fresh produce at a local farmers’ market, root for the home (minor leage baseball) team, and more!

18 A Child on the Spectrum—and a Happy Marriage 20 Special Needs Directory

42 raising kids

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 5 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling 12 A Passion for the Performing Arts 42 What Makes Toddlers Tick 44 Is Your Child Ready to be a CIT? 46 Camps for Older Kids 50 Camps-at-a-Glance Chart 52 Open Houses 54 Professional Services 55 Party Central 56 Meet the Doctor 57 Family Resource Guide 57 Advertisers’ Index 58 Quotables

birthday parties 38 Planning a Blowout Birthday Party 40 Easy as Pie—Er...Cake

What Makes Toddlers Tick

This is why young children do the (sometimes) weird things they do.

things to do 26 Family Fun a Ride Away 29 Family Activities Calendar 37 April Activities

family life 22 Give Your Home a Health Check 24 Build a Budget That Works

NYMetroParents

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

15 Autism Awareness Month 22 5 Easy Steps to a Cleaner, Greener Home

@NYMetroParents

38 Birthday Blowout!

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

Mag Day Magic Camp

WE ACCEPT PARTICIPATING UNIONS

PAY ME PLA NT AVA NS ILAB LE

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

Family O wned & Opera ted for Over 30 Years

Daily Swimming at Country Club Pool with instruction

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

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

OPEN HOUSE E

Early Drop Off and Extended Day LIC LICENSED PROFESSIONAL SUPERVISION

VENTS:

Sundays, 1-3pm April 8th & 22n d at Jib Lanes

Convenient Bayside Location Children Ages 4 to 15

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

raising kids editor’s note

APRIL 2018 • Vol23 • No.9

Special Times, Special Kids

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

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

hen my daughter Clara turned 3, I planned an at-home party with a clown and cake. It seemed like the perfect idea—until the clown got lost on the way to our house. For 45 minutes, 20 bored preschoolers ran wildly around my living room. The clown finally arrived at the same time the pizza did, so I told her she’d have to wait till the kids were done eating. A few minutes later, I spied her through our front window: She’d set up a lawn chair in front of my neighbor’s house and was smoking a cigarette. My neighbor was freaking out at the sudden appearance of a random, smoking clown. It was a party I’ll never forget—and neither will the family next door! Birthday celebrations can be tons of fun, but only if they’re done right. That’s why I’m loving our birthday party section this month. “Planning a Blowout Birthday Party” by Samantha Neudorf (p. 38) reveals event planners’ secrets for throwing bashes, with advice on finding a venue, vendors, and more. “Easy as Pie—Er…Cake” (p. 40) features a charming birthday cake recipe. In addition to extraordinary occasions, extraordinary kids are on our mind right now: April is Autism Awareness Month. Turn to our Special Parent section on p. 15 to read two thoughtful pieces: “Autism Myths to Ignore,” by Katelin Walling, which debunks harmful stereotypes about those on the autism spectrum, and “A Child on the Spectrum—and a Happy Marriage,” by Madeleine Burry. April is when Earth Day is observed. On p. 22, Emma Steven explores how to freshen your home by reducing toxins. We’ve also got a fresh look at toddlers’ quirky behaviors on p. 42. And you won’t want to miss Lambeth Hochwald’s story on p. 44, “Is Your Child Ready to be a CIT?” We explore the traits that make a kid a great counselor-in-training. Of course, this month also brings us Easter and Passover. Wishing a happy holiday to all of you observing, a fun and healthy spring to everyone, and not a smoking clown in sight! Deborah Skolnik Editorial Director, NYMetroParents

Investigative Feature: “An Unimaginable Tragedy” by Stacey Pfeffer (nymetroparents.com/infant-mortality)

Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman

PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR|PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIRECTOR|DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth

MARKETING

MARKETING MANAGER: Jaime Graham PUBLISHING & MARKETING MANAGER: Tom McCann

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

ADMINISTRATION

Profile: “Kids Making a Difference” by Julia Hyman (nymetroparents.com/making-a-difference)

CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith

Family Fun Column: Outings: “See the World in Miniature” at Gulliver’s Gate in Times Square by Katelin Walling (nymetroparents.com/gullivers-gate) and “Where Education and Inspiration Take Flight” at Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey by Caitlin Berens (nymetroparents.com/aviation-hall)

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Rebecca Dixon 917-572-9192

Personal Essay: “Powerful Tunes” by Michaela Searfoorce (nymetroparents.com/powerful-tunes)

ADVERTISING SALES

Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson, EJ Morales-Gomez, Linda Pierce

DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan

Investigative Feature: “Is Homework Necessary?” by Katelin Walling; Tony Diaz, designer (nymetroparents.com/no-homework)

To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents

DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Leonard Porter, Christopher Regalado

We’re proud to announce that our print magazine and website won eight awards for editorial and digital excellence at the annual Parenting Media Association Awards Banquet last month in St. Petersburg, FL.

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan, Westchester); Karen Lo (Brooklyn); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Cintia Feliz, Caitlin Sawicki

To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com

We Won! 8

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Melissa Wickes

Special Series: Me Time: “Battling Burnout” by Katelin Walling (nymetroparents.com/ battling-burnout) and “Extracurriculars vs. Extra Downtime” by Rosalind Muggeridge (nymetroparents.com/extracurriculars-vs-downtime)

Best E-Newsletter: NYMetroParents Weekend Planner (sign up at nymetroparents.com/register)

Best Website: NYMetroParents.com

MOMMYBITES.COM

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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

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

ROBERT MANN DANCE CENTRE NOW TAKING REGISTRATIONS FOR OUR 54TH SCHOOL YEAR… Classes For All Ages & Levels Beginners To Professionals

Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Lyrical • Contemporary Modern • Hip Hop • Musical Theatre • Acrobatics THE ROBERT MANN DANCE CENTRE HAS THE BEST & MOST SUCCESSFUL

YOUNG DANCERS PROGRAM IN NEW YORK CITY • 2 ½ - 3 ½ years old Pre-Dance Program • 3 ½ – 4 ½ years old First Step Dance Program • 4 ½ -6 ½ years old Tap & Pre-Ballet Combination Program • 6 ½ - 7 ½ years old Tap & Jazz Young Dancers Program

Attend our Fabulous

SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE JUNE 4th – JUNE 8th • Mini – Petite 4:00pm - 6:00pm • Junior Division 4:00pm - 7:00pm • Teens & Senior Divisions 4:00pm - 8:00pm

REGISTRATION DEADLINE DATES FOR ALL CURRENT & NEW STUDENTS MAY 1ST, 2ND and 3RD FOR INFORMATION www.robertmanndance.com Phone #: 718-225-3696 • E-Mail: robertmanndance@gmail.com QueensParent

raising kids new places, new programs

Courtesy Cunningham

Who: Cunningham Tennis What’s New: A STEAM program, which will be added to Discovery Camp this summer. A certified New York City teacher will lead the STEAM program, says Bill Racho, owner and director of tennis. Kids ages 4-10 will learn art in addition to science, technology, engineering, and math. They’ll also play tennis for 2-3 hours daily, swim, and go on day trips. Camp runs July 2-Aug. 31, and campers can register for any number of weeks. Extended hours, half-day, and transportation are available. Lunch will be served daily. Want More Info: 196-00 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows; 718-740-6800; cunninghamtennis.com

Tennis

Fresh Meadows Summer Camp Adds STEAM Program

Children enrolled in Cunningham Tennis’ Discovery Camp will 2-3 hours a day in add play tennis ition to STEAM activit ies, swimming, and day trips.

Courtesy Long Isla

Who: Long Island Children’s Museum What’s New: The Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice™ exhibit, which opened Jan. 27. Kids will be able to explore dinosaurs in two distinct environments— Land of Fire and Land of Ice—through hands-on learning. They can act as paleontologists by uncovering fossils, climb into a mock Troodon’s nest, help put a giant puzzle together, and more. The museum will also host special programming, including a workshop on April 8, 12:30-3pm, with a real paleontologist. The exhibit, created by Minnesota Children’s Museum and sponsored by the David B. Jones Foundation, will run through Sunday, May 13. Want More Info: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City; 516-224-5800; licm.org

seum nd Children’s Mu

Long Island Museum for Kids Debuts Dinosaur Exhibit

h its eggs as ’s nest and play wit o a mock Troodon Long Island at ibit exh ™ Kids can climb int Ice urs: Land of Fire and part of the Dinosa Children’s Museum.

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Buckley Country Day Schoo

Who: Buckley Country Day School What’s New: A school-wide read-aloud event in conjunction with Black History Month. Jean-Marc Juhel, Ph.D., the school’s headmaster, wanted to do something different to celebrate Black History Month this year. The school’s librarian chose a book for each grade, including The Color of Us by Karen Katz for kindergarten, Let’s Talk About Race by Julius Lester for fifth grade, and Still I Rise by Maya Angelou for eighth grade. “Students and teachers were clearly engaged in meaningful conversations about the contributions of African-Americans to our country’s history, prejudice, racism, equity, and kindness,” Dr. Juhel says. Want More Info: 2 I.U. Willets Road, Roslyn; 516-627-1910; buckleycountryday.com

Long Island Private School Hosted Black History Month Read-Aloud

A group of ﬁfth-graders listens to Let’s Talk About Race by Julius Lester as part of Buckley Country Day School’s Black History Month read-aloud event.

For More Info, Call 1-800-

856-1043

Days Filled with Fun & Excitement! Boys & Girls, 4-15 • 2-8 Week Programs Operated by Licensed Teachers & Administrators All Union Rates Accepted • Weekly Field Trips • Sports Arts & Crafts • Swim Lessons • Academic Program Available

NEW FOR 2018: Introduction to Robotics

Open House :

SAT., APRIL 7TH & SAT., APRIL 21ST, 2018 1:00PM - 3:00PM JIB LANES 67-19 Parsons Blvd. Flushing, NY 11365

QueensParent

raising kids in the know lished Estab ars 44 Ye

Summer Camp Register Now!

You May Sign Up for 1-5 Days Per Week Full Day / Half Day / Single Classes July 2nd-August 10th, Mon-Fri •Ages 3-14

5 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling ›› By Bethany Braun-Silva with Zak Zarbock, M.D.

I 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 Science & Math Enrichment THEATRE CAMP: Children will put on a favorite Broadway Musical

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

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

188-22 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, NY

718.479.8522

americandanceanddramastudio.com Amazing Birthday Parties Year Round 10

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

t’s no secret that when traveling you put yourself at risk for getting sick. Your chances of catching a germ or two are pretty high—after all, you’ll be doing everything from mingling with crowds to breathing recycled air on the plane. And when you’re traveling with children, your chances of contracting a bug are even higher. After all, kids love to put their fingers in their mouths, roll on the floor, and do many other not-so-sanitary things. But there are precautions you can take to ensure they (and you!) stay as healthy as possible. Zak Zarbock, M.D., dad, pediatrician, and founder of Zarbee’s Naturals shares five ways you can keep kids healthy while traveling. Sanitize once you get past security. Most fliers are required to take off their shoes at airport security. With everyone touching the bottoms of their shoes, germs and bacteria are being transferred to their hands, and then on everything else they touch past that point. Quickly using a hand wipe just past security can go a long way toward keeping germs at a minimum. Be prepared. The best defense is a good offense. To ensure your family feels their best, take a multivitamin to fill any nutritional gaps in your diet. Also, focus on wholesome immune support ingredients such as vitamin C, zinc, and even elderberry. Wipe down contact points. When you get to your seat (both at the gate and on the plane), quickly wipe down the arm rests, handles, and side or tray tables before you settle in. You’ll feel better knowing your kid’s food, drinks, snacks, toys, and activities will be handled with clean hands on fresh surfaces. Hydrate. Make sure you and your family drink lots of water. Planes are known to dehydrate people, and keeping hydrated will make everyone less vulnerable to dry skin, eyes, and mouths. Consider bringing a refillable water bottle or getting bottled water at the airport so you are prepared for the entire flight. Wash your hands. No one wants to arrive at their destination only to find an illness coming on, so hand washing is a no brainer, and soap and water are always best to fight germs you might pick up en route to your destination. If soap and water aren’t available, use a baby wipe on the hands, followed by hand sanitizer.

Zak Zarbock, M.D., was inspired to create Zarbee’s Naturals after looking for alternative wellness products, only to realize there weren’t many wholesome, safe, and chemical-free options on the shelf.

The School of American Ballet The official school of N E W YO R K C I TY B A L L E T

FREE

Audition in Queens for 6 to 10 year olds

Sunday, April 15, 2018 10:30 a.m. (6-7 year olds) 11:30 a.m. (8-10 year olds

Frank Sinatra School of the Arts 35-12 35th Avenue

SAB.ORG/AUDITIONS

for information and optional pre-registration

Other Audition Locations (visit sab.org/auditions for details)

April 14 - Brooklyn | April 15 - Bronx April 20 - Chinatown | April 21 - Harlem Auditions are also held at SABâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Manhattan headquarters for a $35 fee. Visit sab.org for further information.

Photos by Rosalie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

AT L I N C O L N C E N T E R

Winter Term classes begin in September for 8 to 10 year olds and in October for 6 and 7 year olds. | Children must be 6 years old by 9/1/18 to audition and enroll for the 2018-19 Winter Term. | Substantial scholarship program for students with need.

NO PREVIOUS TRAINING NECESSARY

These programs are supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and Council Members Daniel Garodnick, Stephen Levin, and Helen Rosenthal, and by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Queens-Parent.indd 1

QueensParent 11 3/20/18 12:37 PM

raising kids voices

A Passion for the Performing Arts ›› How sharing my interest in the arts helped me become a better parent. By Darren Critz

Courtesy Darren Critz

hough nothing has been disastrous (yet), I have managed to mess up many aspects of parenthood. A good example: Easter. Somewhere along the way, I began referring to the Easter Bunny as Peter—he bizarrely morphed with Peter Rabbit for a reason I can’t remember. To avoid a Sunday morning food-coloring feast because of my own aversion to chemicals in food dye, Peter would steal the Easter eggs from our house rather than leave them out to be found and consumed. Perhaps even more reflective of my failures is the fact that this alternate history about the Easter Bunny came about at all, since my family has been Jewish as far back as anyone can remember. Spoiler alert: Jews don’t celebrate Easter. But I have done a lot of things right, too. I’ve demystified swearing and curse words, taught my daughter that avant-garde jazz isn’t always as terrible as people say it is, and, perhaps most importantly, I’ve helped instill in her a love for the performing arts. From practically the moment she was born, I’ve been bringing my daughter to events, both at Symphony Space and all around the city. I’ve made efforts to make the arts a regular part of her life, and not just a once-a-year visit to the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes (thereby avoiding Christmas-specific events and balancing out the whole Jewish/Easter thing, I suppose). I’ve taken her to music concerts that spanned genres, from rock to jazz to classical and just about everything in between. We’ve attended a ton of dance performances, seeing everything from tap to ballet to percussive dance. And we’ve been to more theatrical events than I can count. The results have made a huge impact on her life. We’ve had discussions about what it takes to write songs and compose music, and where the different styles of music originated. I’ve watched her choreograph dances for stuffed animals and our cat after viewing dance performances (great stuff, despite the erratic performances by the lazy stuffed bears and the overly entitled cat, who studied briefly with Balanchine—as if we needed to hear that story again for the billionth time!). I’ve also witnessed her take the things she’s seen and apply some amazing thoughts and questions to the world outside of the performances: How do bands decide where to put their instruments onstage? How do puppeteers transport their fragile-looking puppets without breaking them? How do performers create funny voices, and is that what the actor sounds like in real life? And the results have helped her in school as well. Why write yet another story about a turtle, when a critique of the lighting for

Darren Critz and his daughter Regan

that circus show is so much more interesting? Don’t think math is important? How are you going to settle up with the venue for your 80-percent cut of the merchandise profits if you can’t figure out how to calculate percentages? (She’s way into money—the little capitalist!) All of this is to say the arts have helped shape her as a thinker and communicator in ways I could never have done as successfully without their assistance. Sure, you could argue there’s another dad out there who lets his kids eat the damn eggs crawling with Yellow Dye No. 6 (aka benzenesulfonic acid, treated with hydrochloric acid and sodium nitrite), and whose preference for baseball means he can testify that sports have had the same effect on his child as the arts has on mine. But I guess that kind of just strengthens what I’m saying, right? When we find ways to share our passions, hobbies, loves, and interests with our children, we bond in ways we could never imagine, help expand our children’s minds, and become more communicative, responsive parents as a result. Thanks, arts! Thanks, baseball! And thanks, Easter Bunny, for burying your eggs in Mr. McGregor’s garden and not in mine!

Darren Critz is director of Performing Arts Programs at Symphony Space, a performing arts center on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. He curates Symphony Space’s Just Kidding series, which will have its final performance for this season March 24. The 2018-2019 season will begin in October, with such performances as New Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s The Rainbow Fish in October, Elizabeth Mitchell and You Are My Flower in December, and more family performances most weekends through March 2019.

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

The Harry T. Stewart, Sr. Magnet School of Engineering, Architecture and the Arts, PS 92 (Pre –K - 5) 99-01 34th Street, Corona, NY 11368

DISTRICTS 25 AND 30 2018-2019 Magnet Schools Assistance Program

Thursday, April 19th • 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM Wednesday, May 23rd • 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM STEM-tastic Evening - Hands on learning activities for parents and children. Accepting applications for grades 1 through 5

The Joseph Pulitzer Magnet School of Innovation and Applied Learning, IS 145 (6-8) 33-34 80th Street, Flushing NY 11372

Magnet Schools are New York City public schools that receive additional funding from the federal government to implement a theme, design innovative curriculum and increase family participation. The academic instruction includes STEAM and project based learning. Academic experiences are enriched by school trips, additional supplies, partnerships and arts-in-residency programs. Magnet Schools offer challenging interdisciplinary academic experiences designed to engage, inspire and promote student achievement. Magnet schools accept applications from students beyond the school attendance zone.

Tours available upon request Accepting applications for grades 7 and 8

The Magnet School of Global Studies and Leadership, PS/IS 200 (Pre-K – 8) 70-10 164th Street, Flushing NY 11365 Saturday, April 21st • 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Tuesday, May 22nd • 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM Accepting applications for grades 1 through 5, 7 and 8

The Discovery School for Inquiry and Research: A STEAM Magnet School, PS 201 (Pre-K -5) 65-11 155th Street, Flushing NY 11367 Tuesday, April 10th • 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM Wednesday, May 2nd • 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM Accepting applications for grades 1 through 5

Families can apply online at www.D2530magnet.com go to the “Magnet Application 2018-2019” tab and follow the instructions or by emailing info@magnetschools.nyc or by phone at 718-759-4977.

GIRL'S & BOY'S BASKETBALL AND BEYOND

SUMMER CAMP ONLY $499 for 2 WEEKS or $300 for 1 WEEK

Section 1: July 9th - July 20th (Basketball Do's and Don’ts & Nutrition - Food Pyramid) Section 2: July 23rd - Aug. 3rd (Basketball Heroes & Nutrition - Smart Food Choices) Section 3: Aug. 13th - Aug. 24th (Basketball Past and Future & Nutrition - Energy Foods)

TRY US OUT 1st Trial Class is FREE

Campers will receive Basketball Composition Notebooks, Basketball Pins, and Tee-Shirts. The Top 3 Campers will receive a pair of girls or boys Basketball Shoes!

55-11 Queens Blvd. Woodside | 718-697-1699

Website:

girlsbasketballandbeyond.com |

Email: girlsbasketballbeyond@gmail.com

» Year round After School and Weekend Group Skills Training Classes, Unlimited for only $99 per month! « QueensParent 13

Learn Tennis this Summer! 7-time Grand Slam Champion, Liezel Huber and the premier team of coaches, Tony Huber, Harel Srugo, Chris Dong, and Justin Bower invite you to the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning Summer Camp runs June 11 - Aug. 24! All levels welcome (ages 5-18) Transportation available to our convenient NYC location 1720 Crotona Ave. Bronx, NY 10457 718.247.7420 www.caryleedstennis.org

Dr. Zweihorn is a board-certified orthodontist specializing in the treatment of children, teens and adults. Our team focuses on helping you achieve your best smile!

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION: 718.969.9234 â&#x20AC;˘ www.drzweihorn.com 150-25 Union Turnpike Flushing, N.Y. 11367 Office Hours Include Sundays and Evenings 14

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

All for a Smile March Promotion: 5% off for full braces $100 off Invisalign

inside

SpecialParent

online extras Chase Bailey, a teen with autism, hosts his own YouTube cooking channel and published a cookbook. Read more, and find some of his recipes, at ›› nymetroparents.com/chase-bailey

Your child with autism wants to form a secure bond with you, even if it doesn’t always seem that way. Learn how to understand signals at ›› nymetroparents.com/autism-connection

Advocates are pushing for a stop to the R-word. Find out how, and what you can do to help at ›› nymetroparents.com/r-word

Going out to dinner with a child who has autism can be very stressful. Find tips from a mom who’s been there at ›› nymetroparents.com/autism-dining

autism awareness month

16 A utism Myths to Ignore: There are a lot of stereotypes about autism spectrum disorder that just aren’t true—here are the five biggest misconceptions. Child on the Spectrum—and a 18 A Happy Marriage Your child’s diagnosis can be challenging to your marriage. Experts share how to keep your bond strong. pecial Needs Directory: Find 20 S resources in Queens for your child with special needs

Despite what many people may think, people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder do like spending time with peers. In fact, interacting with people on the spectrum is the best way to battle these misconceptions.

Autism Myths You Should Ignore

››

There are a lot of stereotypes about autism spectrum disorder that just aren’t true—here are the five biggest misconceptions. By Katelin Walling

hile the awareness of autism spectrum disorder has grown due to social media, increased research, Autism Awareness Month, and more, there are still many misconceptions about ASD, from its causes to the characteristics and abilities of those on the spectrum. As its name denotes, autism is a spectrum, meaning not everyone diagnosed with autism displays the same traits, exhibits the same behaviors, or has the same abilities—just like you or me. So applying blanket statements to those on the spectrum would be like saying girls can’t throw or boys don’t cry. We spoke to experts about stereotypes of ASD, and uncovered the truth behind five big misconceptions about the disorder and those diagnosed with it.

Myth 1: Vaccines cause autism.

Unfortunately we do still hear the misconception that autism is related to vaccinations, commonly the measles, mumps, rubella vaccination, says Sarah Kuriakose, Ph.D., BCBA-D, clinical assistant professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Langone Health. “Not only was the initial study that showed that a fraudulent study, but follow-up studies have debunked that many times,” she explains. There are other concerns that autism is caused by “various environmental factors that a pregnant mother may be exposed to and in utero some of those environmental causative factors may have somehow affected the fetus,” says John Pfeifer, senior director of Clinical Services and the Family Center for Autism, part of Life’s WORC, a Long Island nonprofit that supports people with developmental disabilities and autism. “There’s still ongoing research about the expansion of electromagnetic technology and various environmental chemicals and such that may be at play, but not knowing everything in the environment that may be affecting a fetus, either seen or unseen, makes it hard to decipher that.” 16

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

“What we do know about autism is there seems to be a genetic component, and about ten to twenty percent of cases with ASD are linked to an identified genetic disorder,” says Dr. Kuriakose, who is also senior director of the NYU Langone Autism and Developmental Neuroscience Initiative and the clinical director of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical and Research Program at NYU’s Child Study Center. “We anticipate that that number will go up with more genetics research. But even in identical twins, the concordance rate is not one-hundred percent, so we know there is some factor that is not genetic as well.”

Myth 2: People on the spectrum are anti-social and don’t have feelings.

Dr. Kuriakose says parents, teachers, and even doctors will tell her things like, “that child can’t have autism because…he’s affectionate, …she makes eye contact, or …he’s interested in other kids.” “So what can end up happening is people have this very blackand-white picture that a person with autism is someone who is anti-social and isn’t interested in other people,” she says. “We know that those aren’t necessarily true.” Yet thanks to this persistent myth, a child who does have autism might not be given a diagnosis—his parents may be hanging on to the fact that their child is affectionate though he is struggling in other ways. “It is often thought that people with autism don’t have feelings, which is a very sad misconception and very far from the truth,” adds Janet Koch, CEO of Life’s WORC. “They are capable of having loving relationships with family members and friends.”

Myth 3: People with autism exhibit challenging and/or maladaptive behaviors. “It’s not fair to say that challenging behaviors are inherent in the di-

agnosis,” Pfeifer says. “They are often a byproduct of ineffective treatment of some of the things that are inherent in the diagnosis, which are communication and socialization difficulties.” These behaviors could include flapping hands, rocking, or other self-stimulatory behaviors. “We still unfortunately have the misconception from previous media portrayals that kids with autism are nonverbal, are going to sit in the corner, and just rock or flap their hands,” Dr. Kuriakose says. As society becomes more educated about autism, people are learning about adapting communication efforts. “I have young children, and they’re learning in integrated classrooms about what these behaviors may mean. It could actually help a person [on the spectrum] to not escalate to such a significant behavior because they’ll be able to communicate more easily with people who have been taught how to communicate with them,” Koch says.

Myth 4: Those on the spectrum are savants and/or are ﬁxated on one topic.

The media commonly portrays those with autism as being savants or having restricted interest in a singular subject area: Sam Gardner in Netflix’s Atypical and Shaun Murphy in ABC’s The Good Doctor are two recent portrayals. “Certainly we have kids and adults with autism who have an amazing depth of knowledge in a particular area, incredible memory, incredible pattern recognition skills, things like that that are going to set them up for a particular career,” Dr. Kuriakose says, but not all people on the spectrum show these characteristics. In fact, the most recent criteria for an ASD diagnosis from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fall into two categories: social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRB). There are four traits that fall under the RRB category—repetitive speech or behavior/mannerisms, restricted interest, sensory challenges, and difficulty with transitions or insistence on sameness—and a person needs to only exhibit two of the RRB traits (and meet criteria from the social communication category) to receive a diagnosis of autism, according to Dr. Kuriakose. “So you could have a kid who has some sensory challenges and insistence on sameness without any restricted interest at all and you could still have the diagnosis,” she says.

Myth 5: People with ASD can’t go to college, have jobs, or get married.

Because some people with autism may struggle with social situations, have communication challenges, and have difficulty with flexibility, there’s the misconception that they will not be able to attend higher education, have a job, or get married and have kids. “There are lots of examples of folks with autism who do successfully do those things, and the big thing that’s important is it’s all about the supports the environment can provide,” Dr. Kuriakose says. When working with a patient who is looking at colleges or employment opportunities, Dr. Kuriakose looks for a setting that is supportive of that patient’s strengths and challenges. In fact, “a lot of individuals with autism are actually really great, dedicated, passionate employees, but it has to be a setting that can understand that they might process information and interact in ways that are slightly different from typical.” In terms of getting married, Dr. Kuriakose says there are quite a few instances where she’s diagnosed a child with autism, and a few months later their parent will observe that they’re seeing some of the same characteristics in themselves or another family member. “And these are all people who had families,” she says. So how can we continue to combat these and other myths about people on the spectrum? “Just like with any other group, you shed your misconceptions when you have more close relationships with people in that group,” Dr. Kuriakose says. “And so I really would encourage people to engage with lots of individuals with autism.”

NOAH’S ARK MP SUMMER CA M

2-10 year olds 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

CALL

NOW! 38-20 Bell Blvd. Bayside, NY 11361 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 17

A Child on the Spectrum—and a Happy Marriage ››

Your child’s diagnosis can be challenging to your relationship. Experts share how to keep your bond strong. By Madeleine Burry

ere’s a fundamental truth: Being married with children is wonderful and rewarding—but also really, really hard. And for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder, raising a child is a whole other level of difficulty. More and more moms and dads face this situation; 1 in 68 children have ASD, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s a diagnosis that’s life changing for the entire family. “The diagnosis of a child with autism and the breakdown in communication create a major strain on a marriage,” says Alisha Griffith, Aud.D., CCC-SLP, autism parenting coach, author of Au-mazing Gift: A Journey to Autism Acceptance, and mom to an 11-year-old son with autism. That sounds ominous. Marriage is hard enough without additional stress or strain. And it’s true: The time-consuming daily grind of parenting a child on the spectrum, along with the financial and emotional burden involved, can take over moms’ and dads’ lives, leaving little time to nurture your partnership. Neglecting a marriage does not tend to lead to good things. In fact, for years, despite no actual scientific source, people thought the divorce rates were significantly higher—80 percent—for parents of children on the spectrum. A 2010 study from the Kennedy Krieger Institute debunked the anecdotal rumor. The reality: The divorce rate for parents is the same, regardless of whether they have a child with ASD or not. That points to something reassuring: Maintaining a healthy, happy marriage as a parent of a child on the spectrum may be challenging, but it’s definitely doable. We spoke to experts—couples therapists, coaches, and psychiatrists who are deeply familiar with the impact of this diagnosis on relationships—to find out practical tips to help your marriage stay strong. 18

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Pick a Path Together

Often, parents react to a diagnosis in very different ways: One parent may seek to become an expert, researching the condition constantly, while the other is subsumed by emotions, feeling sorrow, grief, and frustration. “There’s a misalignment in this response that creates distance,” says Tracy Ross, LCSW, a couples and family therapist who specializes in treating parents of children on the spectrum. How can couples feel united in this fragmented moment? If it’s a matter of disagreeing over next steps, pick an expert and trust her to steer your path forward, recommends Gail Saltz, M.D., psychiatrist and author of The Power of Different: The Link Between Disorder and Genius. “To some degree, it’s useful to pick your maven and go with that. Pick someone you really both can feel confident in and then let them direct some of that decision-making,” she says. This is also a moment to sharpen your communication skills, discussing everything from feelings to treatment. That can be harder than it sounds (there’s a reason we praise preschoolers and kindergarteners when they’re good listeners; listening isn’t easy!). Schedule time for judgment-free conversations, recommends Dr. Griffith. “Respect the role of speaker and listener. Take turns to truly listen to each other. Create rules for a safe conversation,” she says, so it doesn’t break down in screams or stony silence.

Make Sure Work is Shared

Typically, one parent becomes the primary caretaker for a child on the spectrum, Dr. Saltz says. (Yes, it’s usually the mom.) And that’s fine, so long as both parents have responsibilities and acknowledge each other’s contributions. “Caretaking doesn’t have to be fifty-fifty,” Dr. Saltz says,

but without participation from both moms and dads, resentment festers. Ross adds that it’s helpful to recognize your spouse’s talents. Consider how your partner can help you become a better parent, and where your different skills can be most helpful to your child. “You can’t both be working on the same thing—there’s just too much to do. Divide and conquer is really better,” Ross says.

Bring Back Date Night (Or Day)

Your child can easily become the focus of your every conversation, activity, and thought. And, doing otherwise may induce feelings of guilt (I shouldn’t go to the movies when I have that towering pile of paperwork to tackle). But your marriage requires attention, too. “Make sure you do carve out time to do pleasurable things together and do not spend every waking moment on your child,” Dr. Saltz says. “You have to keep your relationship interesting and spicy. You were married way before you were a parent, so you still have to nurture your marriage,” Dr. Griffith says. To that end, put date night on the calendar, just like any other important appointment. If you don’t feel comfortable leaving your child with a caretaker, or can’t afford one, Dr. Griffith suggests shifting date night to date day—after you drop your child off at school, skip out of your responsibilities for a few hours in favor of a long lunch, coffee at your local café, a walk in the park, or a trip to the museum or movies together.

Develop a Support System

It can be deeply lonely to be a parent of a child with ASD. “Parents who don’t have kids with special needs don’t know how hard it is. [They] don’t know what you go through,” says Jennifer Kaufman, an occupational therapist who works in NYC public schools and mom to a 9-year-old son who is on the spectrum. “When you have a typical child, you meet other families with

kids and your world expands, but when you have a kid on the spectrum your world can constrict, and that’s harder,” Ross says. Simple social gatherings—like a trip to the park or a birthday party—are difficult for kids who are on the spectrum. That leads many parents to just opt out. “Parents with kids on the spectrum get embarrassed, feel judged, feel upset, so they tend to isolate, which can cause stress,” Ross says. Instead of RSVPing no until the invites end, Ross recommends educating the people around you: Have a conversation with friends about what to expect from your child, and how to talk to their own child about being around kids on the spectrum. As well as maintaining pre-existing relationships, look to make new connections. “Find other parents who may be having a similar struggle, so you have a community to be able to talk to about these [struggles],” Dr. Saltz says. Ross recommends seeking out parent groups.

Consider Volunteering

It can feel relieving and world opening to raise money or volunteer for autism-related causes, Dr. Saltz says. “Doing volunteer work together can be helpful and bonding,” she says. Immersed in therapy, testing, and schedules, it’s easy to neglect caring for your marriage—but it’s not a small thing to overlook. As Ross points out, “It’s not a luxury to work on your relationship. It’s really important for the adults and the whole family.” Having a strong partnership reduces the likelihood of burnout, and allows you to do more on behalf of your children. So go ahead: Enjoy some time with your spouse, and make your partnership a top priority. Madeleine Burry is a Brooklyn-based freelance writer and editor, covering everything from parenting to open data to workplace productivity. She’s held staff positions at Parents.com, Scholastic, and About.com. You can follow her on Twitter @lovelanewest.

FREE

Bleaching with Orthodontic Treatment

STRAIGHTEN YOUR TEETH AT

FREE

Consultation for Children Dr. Larissa Davids is committed to provide the highest quality of orthodontic care for all her patients through constant improvement of never-ending continuing education and the application of latest techniques. Dr. Larissa Davids and her staff look forward to knowing you and your children more than just patients but as friends too.

• • • • • • • • • •

We accept NY Fidelis Care® Medicaid We offer treatment with invisible braces at affordable price 18 months interest-free payment plan for orthodontic treatment Multilingual Staff Metal and Ceramic Braces Call to Invisalign® - Treatment Without Braces schedule an New Digital Radiography appointment Teeth Whitening today! Sunday Appointments Affordable Payment Plans

98-41 Queens Boulevard, Suite 1A, Rego Park, NY | 718-275-2006 | davidsorthodontics.com QueensParent 19

Special Needs Directory Camp Huntington

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

advancement in social and life skills. camphuntington.com.

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’s mission is to nurture a love for music by promoting students’ musical growth and important life skills. Most of our music teachers are board-certified music therapists. We offer various programs to all individuals including children with special needs. Hug Music provides baby and toddler music groups, dyad and private music lessons, and music therapy. Our original method, Musicreative, is especially effective for children with autism and ADHD. New: Social Skills Music

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

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

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Wantagh

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

516-221-3653

Therapy group for ages 3-8! Fiveweek package is available for new students. Contact us today!

Huntington Learning Center

35-30 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing 718-358-7900 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington is the leader in K-12th tutoring and test prep. Our certified tutors provide children with individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, Algebra through Calculus, Chemistry, and other sciences. We also help prep students for the SAT and ACT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington’s proven programs help children develop the skills, confidence, and motivation needed for academic success. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible. Learn more about our mission at huntingtonhelps.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 Queens: 718-640-6767 Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 lispeech.com 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.

Rego Park Orthodontics Larissa Davids, D.D.S

98-41 Queens Blvd., Suite 1A, Rego Park 718-275-2006 davidsorthodontics.com Rego Park Orthodontics welcomes children and adults of all ages for a free orthodontic exam and consultation. The office is equipped with the most recent digital technology to make the experience of orthodontic treatment as relaxed as possible for our patients. We welcome patients with special needs. Patients can chose from different types of braces for treatment: metal braces that come with colors of their choice, ceramic braces without colors, or simply be treated with free clear aligners like Invisalign.

Steps to Socialization

13 S. Bayles Ave., Port Washington 516-767-0266 s2ny.com Steps to Socialization was created by Evelyn Kashinsky, a parent of children with special needs, to help children who have difficulty socializing. Steps to Socialization is more than just a social skills program. We teach children how to think socially, step by step. Working in small groups of three to four students, we cover a variety of topics, including how to establish and maintain friendships and initiating and maintaining conversations.

Zweihorn Orthodontics

Office hours include Sundays and evenings 150-25 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-969-9234 drzweihorn.com Dr. Zweihorn is a board-certified orthodontist specializing in the treatment of children, teens, and adults. His focus is on helping you get your best smile, paying close attention to your concerns, and the specific requirements that are most important to you. Dr. Zweihorn has had years of experience, both during his training and in more than a decade of private practice, caring for patients with special needs. At Zweihorn Orthodontics, we have the most kind and helpful team in town. Come and see for yourself!

HUNTINGTON

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

SAVE HUNTINGTON GETS RESULTS! $100*

GETS RESULTS! Tutoring

Social Thinking in a Social World

Do you know this child?

Test prep WE SATHELP - ACT

Reading - Writing - Math - Study Skills Spelling - Vocabulary Phonics - ADHD Algebra - Geometry - Trigonometry Pre-Calculus - Calculus - Earth Science Biology - Chemistry - Physics

STUDENTS PSAT/NMSQT - State Tests Advanced Placement (AP) SSAT - ISEE - SHSAT - TACHS ACHIEVE HSPT - ASVAB

AT ALL LEVELS RESULTS!

OUR PROGRAMS WORK BECAUSE: • We begin with an Academic Evaluation • We testify on behalf of a student, attend IEP OUR learning STUDENTS • We develop a customized plan or 504 meetings, and visit the student’s school • We provide personalized instruction by • We update you on your child’s progress INCREASE certified teachers at accredited centers • We offer flexible schedules

SAVE $100*

2+ GRADE LEVELS, ON AVERAGE.

Tutoring and Test Prep

Phonics • Reading • Writing • Math • Study Skills Executive Learning Skills • ADHD • Dyslexia Learning Disabilities • ACT • SAT • Regents

STATEN ISLAND 2791 RICHMOND AVE. LYNBROOK 516-568-1900 718-697-0500 MANHASSET

BAY RIDGE 718-491-0900 BRONX 718-597-1500

Register Now! She alw ays sits alon e on the bus sat ions He inte rru pts oth er peo ple’ s con ver She isn’ t invi ted on play dat es cted cha nge He mel ts dow n wh en the re’s une xpe

The social world can be a challenging place. At Steps to Socialization, we understand that not all children process social information the same way. Some have to be taught how to think socially, step by step.

Successful Friendships are Possible! ••••••••••••••••••••

13 SOUTH BAYLES AVENUE PORT WASHINGTON, NY 516.767.0266 | www.s2sny.com

CARLE PLACE 516-747-5600 FLUSHING 718-358-7900

PARK SLOPE 718-230-4600

516-365-4455

©2017 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) are registered trademarks of the College Board.Huntington PSAT/NMSQT a registered trademark of the Board andvalid the National MeritEvaluation, Scholarshipnew Corporation. ACTNot is a ©2018 Mark,isLLC. Independently Owned andCollege Operated. *Offer for Academic students only. registered of ACT, of these entities endorses or was involved production of the program.*Offer validoffor new valid trademark with any other offer.Inc. SATNone is a registered trademark of College Board. ACT inis the a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None these students only. Not valid with any other offer. **Grade level results are based on cumulative average grade level increases in reading and entities endorses or was involved in the production of the program. math for 17,445 students from 2010 to 2014 using the full set of available student data.

HuntingtonHelps.com

CALL 1.800.CAN.LEARN

Personalized Attention. Proven Results.

HUG MUSIC

NEW! SOCIAL SKILLS MUSIC THERAPY GROUP

BABY & TODDLER MUSIC GROUPS

Hug Melody ® Groups (up to 6 children with 2 teachers)

PIANO, GUITAR, VOICE LESSONS

• Flexible instruction tailored to each student • Private or duo lessons offered 5-WEEK PACKAGE available for new students

MUSIC THERAPY

Various programs available, including Musicreative, our original music education method especially effective for children with Autism, ADD,& ADHD. 5-WEEK EVALUATION PACKAGE available

www.HUGMUSICNY.com

112-01 75Ave. Lower level Forest Hills

contact@hugmusicny.com

718.487.4309 QueensParent 21

family life home

Some plants, such as Spider Plants, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, Peace Lilies, Aloe Vera, and Garden Mums are natural air purifiers, according to NASA. So this Earth Day, why not take your kids to pick out a little greenery for your home?

Give Your Home a Health Check ›› Five simple steps to reducing environmental toxins around your house

o you want to detox your home but don’t know where to start? Got a couple of green products in your kitchen but want to know what else you should you be doing? Consider this: The average family is exposed to thousands of environmental toxins and the majority of this occurs in the home. The good news? There are simple things you can do to make your living space greener and healthier for your family. “The first point I would say is don’t get overwhelmed,” reassures Nneka Leibe, director of healthy living science at the Environmental Working Group. “There are simple changes that can make an impactful difference.” Here are five expert-approved priority tasks you can do in your home to go a little greener:

Improve your air quality.

“One thing people don’t realize is that the indoor air is a poorer quality than the outdoors. Even in cities,” says Maia James, green home consultant and founder of gimmethegoodstuff.org. In fact, indoor air is as much as two to five times more polluted than air outside. “A lot of people are thinking about the pollution they are exposed to outdoors,” Leibe says. “When we started to dig into the products we have indoors, we realized that a lot of the things we have in our home and furniture either release chemicals or are made with chemicals that we suggest to avoid.” 22

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

By Emma Steven

Don’t panic: You can improve your air quality by replacing or eliminating poly vinyl chloride (especially the flexible kind found in shower curtains, toys, raincoats, and kids’ mattress covers), flame-retardants, conventional cleaning products and air fresheners, dry cleaning that uses perchloroethylene (PERC), particle board and MDF, furniture with waterproof or stain-guard finishes, chemical pesticides, synthetic carpeting, lead paint, asbestos, and radon gas. Visit nymetroparents.com/green-home for more details about these common problem areas. If you want to go one step further, James recommends investing in an air filter to actively clean the air. For a low-fi option, you can add wool rugs and plants—both have been shown in studies to be natural Volatile Organic Compound (VOCs include formaldehyde and benzene) absorbers. And don’t forget to open your windows every day!

Reduce household dust.

Those dust bunnies may look harmless, but nasties like lead, phthalates (endocrine disrupting chemicals or EDCs), BPA, flame-retardants, perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), and chemicals from cleaning products lurk in them. Gary Ginsberg, Ph.D., an assistant professor and toxicologist at Yale School of Public Health, has studied household dust extensively. He says dust is a key source of children’s exposure to contaminants at home, with levels of phthalates, lead, and flame-retardants in dust relating closely to

levels in blood and urine. Children and babies ingest a lot because they spend more time on the floor and put things in their mouths. They are also much smaller and still developing, so toxins have a much bigger potential impact on their health. Vacuum regularly using a HEPA filter vacuum, wet-mop floors, and wipe down surfaces. Fit filters to heating and air-conditioning units, take off your shoes when you get home, and use a doormat to reduce the amount of outdoor dust and soil coming into your home.

Buy a water ﬁlter.

“Another small change that is really impactful is purchasing a water filter,” Leibe says. The quality of tap water can vary widely, so it’s important to check yours via your water utility’s website or a resource like the EWG Tap Water Database (ewg.org/tapwater). Just make sure to regularly clean the water container and change the filter.

Switch to cleaner personal care items.

Many beauty products contain small amounts of chemicals, including EDCs and lead. James recommends starting with the products that are used the most often and on the biggest areas such as moisturizers, sunscreen, and shampoos. Many people are surprised to hear the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not require safety testing for personal care and cosmetic products, so it’s up to the consumer to check labels. The EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database (ewg.org/skindeep) is a great resource for researching ingredients as are apps such as Think Dirty, which let you check on the go.

Ditch plastic and non-stick cookware.

Replace plastic bottles with stainless steel or glass. The dangers of BPA are well known, but the plastics used to replace it (like bisphenol S aka BPS) are also thought to contain EDCs, according

All of the experts interviewed were keen to emphasize that we should not be lying awake at night (on our non-organic mattresses) panicking. “I know it’s hard to not freak out about this stuff as you begin to educate yourself,” James says. “But it’s helpful to remember that it’s all about cumulative risk. No one item in the home is going to make or break your family’s health.” “It’s not a life or death situation,” Dr. Ginsberg agrees. “There are a lot of low-level risks out there. We are doing much better today than we were when I was a kid. We don’t want to overwhelm people because then [they] will be paralyzed.” “All of these changes combine to reduce our body burden of chemical exposure,” Leibe adds. “They’re small changes but very, very important to reducing the number of chemicals we’re exposed to that lead to adverse health impacts.” The onus is now on us, as consumers, to do the legwork to find out what’s in the things we use. “The biggest piece of advice is that because of lapses in regulation, parents have to become amateur investigators,” Leibe concludes. “They can’t rely on claims and advertising hype.” By increasing your knowledge and making smart choices, it is possible to make your home a greener and healthier place. So you can sleep better in more ways than one! Emma Steven is a British freelance writer living in Manhattan with her husband, two small kids, and two cats. Previously the Manhattan calendar editor for NYMetroparents.com, she writes about parenting and New York City. When asked about what she most misses about the UK she’s most likely to say British humor and least likely to say British weather.

TINY FOOTSTEPS

SUMMER REGISTRATION

Child Learning Center U N D PR

718

AGES 1-5

A YE

GOING ON NOW! SPACE IS LIMITED!

SPACE IS LIMITED!

Don’t obsess.

FALL 2018 REGISTRATION GOING ON NOW!

to the EWG and James. Never heat food in the microwave in plastic as this can lead to chemicals such as phthalates leaching into it, and replace non-stick cookware as these are made with PFCs.

-9 69- 5

Monday - Friday 8:00am - 6:00pm • Extended Hours Available • Spacious Classrooms • Licensed Teachers • Warm Caring Environment • Creative Academic Programs

• Science & Explorations • Themes Aligned with Common Core • Large Outdoor Playground

• Free Potty Training • Hot Meals Prepared Daily • HRA & ACS Vouchers Accepted

www.tinyfootstepsny.com • 167-01 Union Turnpike • Fresh Meadows, NY 11366

family life finances

Build A Budget That Works

››

Stop living from paycheck to paycheck! Here’s how to make a spending plan that covers the things you need—and helps you save for the things you want. By Katelin Walling

o you know how much, on average, you’ll spend each year on raising a child? $12,980, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture if your child was born in 2015. That’s $233,610 over the course of your child’s underage years, ages newborn to 17. For good measure, add in another $51,000 for projected inflation. And that’s not even taking into consideration how much you’ll need to save if you want to buy a house for your family, pay for a chunk of your children’s college educations, or contribute to your retirement. Oh, and speaking of college: Most parents in their 20s and 30s are paying off their student loans, too. Is thinking about all of these numbers making your head spin? Before you panic, consider doing this: making a budget. It will help you “create realistic goals by understanding your spending and savings behaviors and make sure you don’t spend more than you earn,” says Keri Danielski, consumer finance expert and spokeswoman for Intuit’s money management tools Mint and Turbo. If you’re hoping the magic fix is cutting your daily latte habit or bringing a lunch from home instead of buying a $15 salad, you’re in for a rude awakening. While those small changes will certainly help you save money (as long as you actually save it), they’re only the start. What you really need to do is step back and take in the big picture of how much you earn—and spend. “I know a lot of people struggle with this, but it’s worth the struggle. I tell my clients all the time: This is the foundation to financial planning,” says Kristen Euretig, CFP, founder of 24

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Brooklyn Plans, a financial planning service geared toward women in their 20s to early 40s. “This is what’s coming in and going out every month, and if you can get this piece right, you can do everything else.” Before sitting down to tackle your finances, set yourself up for success by finding a system that both you and your partner feel comfortable using. “Whether it’s tracking everything manually in a spreadsheet or using a personal finance tracker like Mint to help track in real-time, you need something that works for you,” Danielski says. “This will make budgeting easier and more enjoyable for you.” Once you have a system figured out, creating your budget can be accomplished in four steps: Know how much you’re bringing in. Before you and your partner can even think about determining how much money to allocate to various expenses, you need to know your total net annual income. That’s how much you’re both taking home after taxes. “When we go to create a budget, we automatically go to the expenses side,” Euretig says. “But that side is meaningless if you don’t have the right income number because that’s how you actually figure out if you can afford your monthly expenses. So that’s the first step.” The easiest way to figure out your total net annual income, if you’re salaried employees, is to multiply your last paycheck amount by however many pay periods are in a year. This will be a little trickier for freelancers, Euretig notes.

Determine your current spending habits. “People tend to underestimate what they spend and overestimate what they save,” says Daniel D’Ordine, CFP, founder of DDO Advisory Services LLC, which offers financial planning, investment management, and insurance solutions for families and business owners in New York City, the Hudson Valley, and New England. “You have to get a very good sense of what your steady spending habits are.” He suggests reviewing 12 months of statements from credit cards and bank accounts to see what you actually spent in a year and on what. Categorize what you spent into fixed expenses (rent, transportation or commute, groceries, utilities, child care, etc.) and discretionary expenses (takeout, entertainment, clothes, gym memberships, vacations, birthday parties, etc.). Then use the total amount you spent in the past year as a baseline to determine an average monthly expenditure. “It’s as simple as knowing that we spend around $8,500 a month allin,” D’Ordine says. This will help you figure out how much of your total net monthly income you have left over to save for various goals.

BAYSIDE

Located at Queensborough Community College

o a s

Figure out your goals. First and foremost, D’Ordine suggests bulking up your emergency fund if you don’t have one. He advises keeping approximately three months of expenses in your savings account in case something happens, like you lose your job or your partner needs to take an extended leave. Then sit down together and write down your goals, “and be very realistic,” Danielski says. Do some research on how much these goals will cost and how long it will take to reach them—a down payment on a house, retirement, paying off debt (find tips at nymetroparents. com/decrease-debt). “Once you identify how much you need to start saving, you can figure out your budget,” Danielski adds. Periodically check in on your budget to make sure you’re meeting your goals. “I think that a monthly check-in provides accountability,” D’Ordine says. “So that when unexpected opportunities arise to spend money that maybe aren’t in the budget, something will go off in the individual’s brain that will say ‘this is going to come back to haunt me when we check in at the end of the month.’” “The more you’re aware of your spending and savings habits, the better you’ll be able to meet your budget goals,” adds Danielski, who suggests couples plan “money dates” out of the house to make these check-ins something to look forward to. “Weekly or bi-weekly meetings are helpful if you’re trying to cut back on spending habits,” she says. “Monthly and quarterly meetings may be a better fit if you’re checking in on the overall health of your budget and goals.” These periodic check-ins are also a good time to take a peek at your emergency fund. “If it’s being depleted, that means you’re spending more than your average monthly amount or you’re spending more than is coming in,” D’Ordine says. You’ll want to review your discretionary expenses to see what you can trim (find tips at nymetroparents.com/spending-cuts). But, D’Ordine adds, “if that emergency buffer is creeping up, then that extra money is what you can throw into the college fund or save for a down payment.” While all of this might seem like a massive undertaking, setting up a budget and attacking problem areas now will set you up for success down the road. “Once you’re cash-flow positive and you have more savings and you’re spending less than you earn, you can pay off debt, you can save for a home, you can save for other goals,” Euretig says. “So it’s really crucial and it’s worth the time to get right because it sets you up for literally anything else you want to do financially.”

i s

Specialized Early Start Program: Ages 3-5 Traditional Day Camp: Ages 6-11 Teen Travel: Ages 12-14 Sports & Outdoor Adventure Arts, Crafts, Music & Performing Arts Flexible Enrollment: 2-8 weeks Red Cross Swim Instruction 8:30am-5:30pm + extended day AC Transportation • Hot Lunch Option Special Events, Carnivals, Tie Dye, Scavenger Hunts Color War, Day Trips, New Indoor Atrium » Academic Enrichment & Chinese Academy offered all summer! » Join us for an info session on April 7th & April 22nd at 10:00 am in the Library Building - Rooms 14, 15 & 26.

As Close to Sleepaway Camp As You Can Get!

QueensParent 25

things to do

outbound

Family Fun a Ride Away

Celeste Roldan

Courtesy Long Island Aquarium

In Suffolk County…

Caumsett State Historic Park

Named after its Matinecock Indian name “Caumsett,” meaning “place by a sharp rock,” this estate contains almost 2,000 acres of land extending into the Long Island Sound. Families can jog, hike, or bike along the miles of paths surrounding the rocky shoreline and salt marsh. Bird watching, fishing, horseback riding, and environmental education are just some of the various activities Caumsett offers. Visit It: 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington; 631-423-1770; caumsettfoundation.org

Long Island Aquarium

Visit one of the largest all-living coral reef displays in this hemisphere, a 120,000-gallon shark tank, several touch tanks, and more than 100 exhibits at the Long Island Aquarium. Upcoming events this month include behind the scenes tours, otter feeding, and an African penguin talk. On April 15, kids can also join their favorite princesses for a tea party. Visit It: 431 E. Main St., Riverhead; 631-208-9200; longislandaquarium.com

Bellevale Farms Creamery Bellevale Farms Creamery is a small, family-run creamery located on a 450-acre dairy farm in Warwick. Families can choose from more than 50 flavors of homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and more, all while enjoying the beautiful view over the rolling hills of Bellevale Farm. The creamery opens at 12pm daily, April-October. Visit It: 1390 Route 17A, Warwick; 845-988-1818; bellvalefarms.com

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Connecticut Science Center

Adin Fuchs

o and bey nd!

Connecticut Science Center More than 165 hands-on exhibits, a 3-D digital theater, four education labs, and daily programs and events allow kids to build, design, learn, and more at the Connecticut Science Center. Permanent exhibits include Science Alley, Butterfly Encounter, Exploring Space, and River of Life. The center is perfect for children, teens, and adults who want to learn and explore all kinds of science from physics to forensics, geology, and astronomy. Visit It: 250 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, CT; 860-724-3623; ctsciencecenter.org

GRAND OPENING! Create your website with HTML/CSS/JS/PHP. Grades: 5,6,7,8,9 Learn how to create your own website in one month. 718-395-9009 35-30 Francis Lewis Blvd. Bayside, NY 11358

For more information, please visit our website: www.iCodingClub.com

SUMMER CAMP! JUNE 25 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AUGUST 3

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

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

QueensParent 27

The Harry T. Stewart, Sr. Magnet School for Engineering, Architecture & the Arts PS92Q • Hands-on, Project Based Learning • Use of Engineering Design Process • Partner Residency Programs • STEM, Science and Music Labs • Visual and Performing Arts Magnet Schools are NYC public schools that receive additional funding from the federal government to implement a theme, design innovative curriculum and increase family participation. Magnet Schools accept students from beyond their attendance zone.

For more information, to schedule a tour, or obtain an application, please call

OPEN HOUSE | Thurs. April 19th | 8:30 am - 11:00 am STEM-tastic Evening | May 23rd | 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm

718-533-1013

Hands on Learning Activities for Parents and Children!

99-01 34th Ave. Corona, NY 11368 • 718-533-1013 • ps92q.org

Kon Gen International P Preschool 196-25 42nd Ave, A Bayside, NY 11358 (Francis Lewis Blvd and 42nd Ave) A

718 281-2338 718 353-4388

A unique preschool prreschool for child children rren en ages 2 - 5 Facility F acility hours 7:45am - 6:00pm FREE FULL DAY A p AY program rogram for 4 year ar olds born in 2014

• Gifted and Talented Test Preparation • Dance studio/Gym, Indoor sensory room, Music room, Rooftop playground, Botanical Garden • Project based Curriculum aligned with NYS Common Core Learning Standards • Licensed by NYC Dept of Health

April 2018 | 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 Brick Fest Live (No. 2 on our list).

APRIL

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

nyme

com/c

ents. ropar

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

CALENDAR 30

Editor’s Hot Tickets

Dance Party, Crafty Kids

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

Show Time!, Special Needs

Fun Fairs & Festivals, Once Upon a Time

On Screen, Mini Musicians

The Great Outdoors, Smarty Pants

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

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

Spring Break Activities for Kids

WHEN: April 3-6, Tuesday-Friday, 1-4pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children get their hands dirty as they sift and search through the Exploration Station. WHY WE LOVE IT: Who knew getting dirty could be so much fun? WANT TO GO? $6; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and younger. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Brick Fest Live

WHEN: April 7-8, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Kids and adults can get inspired, educated, and entertained with Lego bricks at this ultimate Lego fan experience. WHY WE LOVE IT: Play with huge attractions built to set your imagination free, and witness mind-blowing creations made entirely out of Legos! WANT TO GO? $15; $12 children and seniors. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

UniverSoul Circus Big Top

WHEN: Through April 8: Tuesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Roy Wilkins Park, 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard, Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: A spectacle of global proportions, the 25th anniversary edition will take the audience on an unforgettable journey of electrifying, edge-of-your-seat performances with brand-new acts from Russia, Trinidad, South Africa, Mongolia, Cuba, China, Ethiopia, and the United States. WHY WE LOVE IT: Get ready for a bigger, faster, louder, funkier show like no other with even more soul! WANT TO GO? $20-$40. 800-745-3000. universoulcircus.com.

Empty Bowls: A Kew Gardens Effort to Fight Hunger WHEN: Monday, April 9, 5:30-7pm and 7:30-9pm WHERE: Austin’s Ale House, 82-70 Austin St., Kew Gardens AGES: All WHAT: Join a Kew Gardens effort to fight hunger. 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: An inspiring and creative way to raise funds to support a food drive. WANT TO GO? $20 donation. 718-849-3939. austinsteakandalehouse.com.

Let’s Go Mets: Free T-Shirt Friday

WHEN: Friday, April 13, 7:10pm WHERE: Citi Field, 126-01 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Cheer on the Amazins as they take on the Milwaukee Brewers. All fans receive a Mets T-shirt. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a new year, a new skipper, and we still believe. WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 718-507-8499. mets.com.

‘Doktor Kaboom’s Look Out! Science Is Coming!’

WHEN: Sunday, April 15, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Corona AGES: All WHAT: An over-the-top German physicist with a passion for science that knows no bounds. Sporting chrome goggles, orange lab coat, motorcycle boots, and wicked cool hair, Doktor Kaboom travels the world, thrilling adults and children with an explosive comedic style. WHY WE LOVE IT: Nothing says science like KABOOM! WANT TO GO? $14. 718-760-0064. queenstheatre.org.

Hydro Power Family Workshop FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 11am-1pm WHERE: Queens Historical Society at Kingsland Homestead, 14335 37th Ave., Flushing AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Students are introduced to various aspects in the scientific field, including the Industrial Revolution, hydro power, solar power, wind power, electric energy, and satellite/GPS systems, then can build their own models powered by air and water pressure. WHY WE LOVE IT: A fun family day with a special hands-on learning experience. WANT TO GO? 718-939-0647 x14. queenshistoricalsociety.org.

Green Garden: Green Planet

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 12:30-3:30pm WHERE: The Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38th Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: An afternoon of art, hands-on workshops, and take-away information. Learn about ways to care for and enjoy our natural environment with information on recycling, composting, and other earth-friendly resources in the community. WHY WE LOVE IT: Learn how to help make a cleaner and greener environment. WANT TO GO? $5; free for children younger than 3; $12 per family. 718-359-6227. vomuseum.org.

Family Breakfast: Earth Day

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 9:30am WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: After a light breakfast, explore the nature play area, learn how to do things to help local wildlife, and help staff plant some flowers to attract butterflies and other animals. Registration required. WHY WE LOVE IT: Spend Earth Day with your favorite zoo animals! WANT TO GO? $35. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

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

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Be a volunteer and help save the planet for future generations! Have fun participating in beach clean-ups, presentations, planting trees, panel discussions on TV shows, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Macy’s Flower Show 2018 FREE

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

Magnet School Open House FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: PS/MS 200: The Magnet School of Global Studies & Leadership, 70-10 164th St., Flushing AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Attendees will learn what it means to be a magnet school and how to apply. WANT TO GO? 718-969-7780. globalstudiesandleadership.org.

Cunningham Tennis Open House & Summer Camp Registration Day FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 1-4pm WHERE: Cunningham Tennis, 196-00 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about the 2018 summer camps and all of the junior and adult programs and receive a 10-percent early-bird discount for summer camp. Enjoy food, tennis, face painting, arts and crafts, a bouncy house, games, and raffle prizes, including a chance to win a free week of camp or $200 off of camp. WANT TO GO? 718-740-6800. cunninghamtennis.com.

6th Annual Walk for Kids’ Growth FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 11am-3pm WHERE: Flushing Meadows Park, Fountain of the Planets, 111th Street and College Point Boulevard, Corona AGES: All WHAT: The event will feature a 3-mile scenic walk, food, carnival games, display booths, live entertainment, and more. This is the nation’s largest and most successful education and fundraising event for childhood growth disorders and raises significant funds and awareness for the disorders, celebrates patient advocacy, and honors those who have reached new heights. WANT TO GO? 800-451-6434. walkforkidsgrowth.org. ››

QueensParent 31

‘Paper: A Wordless Tale of Life’ by Kulturhuset Stadsteaterns Marionetteatern

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 2:15pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-12, adult WHAT: The story begins with nothing—then suddenly things start to happen. Four busy figures sneak in, come see who they are and what will happen in this meserizing, wordless theatre piece. WANT TO GO? $14; $8 children. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

‘The Polar Bears Go Up’ by Unicorn Theatre, U.K.

SHOW TIME! ‘The Broadway Dolls!’

WHEN: Sunday, April 8, 3pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A celebration of Broadway music, rock ‘n’ roll, and ’60s girl groups, this all-singing, all-dancing, glamourous show is a unique live theatrical experience. This first-rate company of leading ladies hail directly from the Broadway casts of Mamma Mia, Chicago, Memphis, Jersey Boys, Annie Get Your Gun, Legally Blonde, Phantom Of The Opera, A Chorus Line, Sister Act, Jekyll & Hyde, Spamalot, and more. WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

Saturday Family Matinee: ‘Pete The Cat’

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: When Pete the Cat gets caught rocking out after bedtime, the catcatcher sends him to live with the Biddle family to learn his manners— and boy are they square! But for the groovy blue cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children. jcal.org.

‘Princess Particular’

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Princess Particular is off her rocker, all she can think about is her latest scheme to become a ballerina. Her mom and dad, King Loadsadough and Queen Patience, want her to focus on her Princess duties. Luckily, her four maids and the Chancellor and Lady in Waiting are on hand to help make her dream come true. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 for children younger than 17. 718-392-0722. secrettheatre.com.

‘Pinkalicious’

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 2pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Pinkalicious loves all things pink, from fairy dresses to cotton candy to bubblegum, and most importantly she loves eating pink cupcakes. But when Pinkalicious eats one too many, she turns pink herself! WANT TO GO? $15. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org. 32

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 2:15pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The Polar Bears are back and are going up in the world, climbing trees, jumping on clouds, and reaching for the stars as they race each other all the way into space. WANT TO GO? $14; $8 children. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

‘Pirate Pete’s Parrot’

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Climb on board and get ready for adventure on the high seas. Armed with an endearing crew of misfits, Pete embarks on a journey complete with songs, sword fights, and plenty of audience interaction. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 for children younger than 17. 718-3920722. secrettheatre.com.

‘Little Women’

WHEN: April 21-29, Saturday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: St. Luke’s Church, 85 Greenway S., Forest Hills AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: This production by the Gingerbread Players is based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott. This musical adaptation is by Forest Hills Gardens resident Dolly Guither, and follows the lives of the March sisters. WANT TO GO? $15; $12 for groups of 6 or more. 718-268-7772. gingerbreadplayers.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS Autism Awareness Action Day 2018 FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 12-5pm WHERE: The Shops at Atlas Park, 8000 Cooper Ave., Glendale AGES: All WHAT: Join Play4Autism for a day of spreading awareness and acceptance. There will be games, informational booths, face painters, arts and crafts, a live DJ, car show, yoga and martial arts demonstrations, police and fire safety, sports stations, raffles, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-440-9863. play4autism.org.

Autism Spectrum Tour: The Discovery Squad FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 1: Saturdays, 9-10am WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, 79th Street and Central Park West, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Families with members on the autism spectrum can attend a 40-minute tour led by specially trained guides, then spend some time exploring the Discovery Room before the museum opens to the public. WANT TO GO? 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

ON SCREEN School’s Out Family Film Series FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 3, 1:30pm WHERE: Hillcrest Library, 187-05 Union Turnpike, Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Come watch Wonder while school is out. Light refreshments are permitted for this program only. WANT TO GO? 718-454-2786. queenslibrary.org.

Family Movies FREE

WHEN: April 3-4, Tuesday-Wednesday, 3pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Movie time is great family time. Watch Wonder on Tuesday and Despicable Me 3 on Wednesday. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

Family Movie Time FREE

WHEN: Through April 19: Thursdays, 5:45pm WHERE: Kew Gardens Hills Library, 72-33 Vleigh Place, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Weekly movie sessions for families, caregivers, and children to enjoy. This month, watch Wall-E on April 5; A Bug’s Life on April 12; and Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul on April 19. WANT TO GO? 718-261-6654. queenslibrary.org.

Moving Image Studio Workshop

WHEN: Through April 29: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-4pm WHERE: Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Ave., Long Island City AGES: 3-12, adult WHAT: Families can create media and other projects. Activities include creating stop-motion animation, puppet making with found objects, designing your own meme, and coloring. WANT TO GO? $15; $11 seniors and students; $7 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3. 718-429-2579. movingimage.us.

‘Dream Big: Engineering Our World’

WHEN: Through June 30: daily, 2pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: From the Great Wall of China and the world’s tallest buildings to underwater robots, solar cars, and smart, sustainable cities, this film celebrates the human ingenuity behind engineering marvels big and small. WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children with admission: $16; $13 children ages 2-17; free for children younger than 2. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

‘Conquest of the Skies 3D’

WHEN: Through June 30: daily, 3pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Embark on a journey to unravel the evolution of flying animals, from the first flying creatures to the organisms we know today. WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children with admission: $16; $13 children ages 2-17; free for children younger than 2. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

MINI

MUSICIANS ‘I Got Love’ Culture Connecton Encore with Joaquina Kalamango FREE WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 2:30pm WHERE: Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Rising Broadway star Joaquina Kalamango will make her Culture Connection encore with ASCAP award winner Charles Duke as Music Director. WANT TO GO? 718-990-0700. queenslibrary.org.

Movie Music Magic!

WHEN: Sunday, April 8, 2pm WHERE: The Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38th Ave., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Violinist Diane Block and cellist Terry Batts perform their new musical program, exploring the common American experience through the lens of cinematic music with soundtracks featured in iconic films. WANT TO GO? $12; $10 students. 718-359-6227. vomuseum.org.

Lullaby Song Circle

WHEN: Thursday, April 12, 12pm WHERE: Ridgewood Library, 20-12 Madison St., Ridgewood AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Join in singing lullabies led by artists from Carnegie Hall. WANT TO GO? 718-821-4770. queenslibrary.org.

Brian Stokes Mitchell: Simply Broadway

WHEN: Sunday, April 15, 3pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Tony Award-winner Brian Stokes Mitchell performs an afternoon of songs from a nearly three-decade career on Broadway. WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

Music in the Garden: Emily Asher’s Garden Party

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 4pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy the jazz stylings of Emily Asher’s Garden Party to kick off the monthly Music in the Garden series. The ensemble is led by Asher’s trombone and vocals, drawing on the repertoire Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and New Orleans brass bands. WANT TO GO? $6; $4 seniors and students with ID; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and younger. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Tony Orlando: All The Hits!

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 3pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Included in this production are Orlando’s hits of the ’70s, classic rock ‘n’ roll, ’50s tunes, tributes to America, and a couple of new songs. WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

Konnakol Jazz by Arun Luthra FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 6pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: A saxophonist and practitioner of the art form of konnakol, a vocalized form of South Indian classical music, blends jazz with Indian classical music rhythms and performs them with konnakol and saxophone. WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org. ›› QueensParent 33

CRAFTY KIDS

Hands On History: Make An 18th Century Pocket FREE

DANCE PARTY Ida y Vuelta: Basilio Georges FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 1pm WHERE: King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-12, adult WHAT: Two hundred years ago, pockets had to be worn separately. Make a set of pockets to wear on your hips, just like those in the 18th century. WANT TO GO? 718-206-0545. kingmanor.org.

Art for Families Sparkle: Radiating Light

WHEN: Friday, April 6, 7:30pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: A riveting performance in the form of “Ida y Vuelta” or “Round Trip,” a modern style of flamenco dance. Over the past 30 years, modern flamenco has been influenced and has incorporated elements of syncopation, jazz, and Latino culture in the music, movement, and footwork. WANT TO GO? 718-658-7400. jcal.org.

WHEN: Sundays, April 8 and 22, 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, and work together to make their own works of art. Reservations required. WANT TO GO? $10 families with up to four members. 718-204-7088. noguchi.org.

History of Hip Hop Dance FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 15, 10:30am WHERE: The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, Long Island City AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Parents will learn strategies for engaging their children during museum visits while exploring art materials and The Noguchi Museum galleries as a family. Reservations required. WANT TO GO? $10 families with up to four members. 718-204-7088. noguchi.org.

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2pm WHERE: Cambria Heights Library, 218-13 Linden Blvd., Cambria Heights AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This event highlights the origins and history of hip hop dance from the past to present day, featuring Virgil “Lil O” Gadson, who has appeared on TV shows such as America’s Got Talent and MTV America’s Best Dance Crew, and was a finalist on So You Think You Can Dance. WANT TO GO? 718-528-3535. queenslibrary.org.

Art for Tots: Rhythm In Art

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company: CrossCurrent V

Beyond Black Panther: Superheroes of Color FREE

Global Mashup #1: Latin Boogaloo Meets Afrobeat

‘Paper: A Wordless Tale of Life’ Marionette Workshop

‘Latin Dance Fiesta’

Crafty Tuesday FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 15, 2pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This live music and dance project features a curated concert by NaiNi Chen and Professor Yin Mei with guest artists from Taiwan and China. WANT TO GO? $16; $10 students. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org. WHEN: Friday, April 20, 8pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Join Spanglish Fly—NYC’s only band dedicated to reviving and renewing Latin Boogaloo’s soul and R&B mix—and Chop and Quench, comprised of members of the cast and band of FELA! The Musical. WANT TO GO? $16; $10 students. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org. WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 8pm WHERE: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Four renowned dance companies will showcase traditional dances from their country of origin. WANT TO GO? $20 and up. 718-760-0064. queenstheatre.org.

Dancin’ Broadway!

WHEN: Sunday, April 29, 3pm WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Come experience some of the most iconic dance numbers from The Great White Way. WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org. 34

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Monday, April 16, 3-4pm WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Introducing comic fans to the amazing minority superheroes. Don’t miss this presentation and the chance to create your own superhero. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org. WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 1pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Participants will learn how to work with various materials to create different puppets. They will make their own character and learn how to make it come alive. WANT TO GO? $8. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org. WHEN: Through April 24: Tuesdays, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Get creative at the library and enjoy fun crafts for children. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Up-cycled Craft Series FREE

WHEN: April 4-25, Wednesdays, 4:30pm WHERE: Hillcrest Library, 187-05 Union Turnpike, Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Celebrate Earth Day with this up-cycled craft series for kids to use recycled materials. Create a windmill craft on April 4; a bird feeder on April 11; a book collage poster on April 18; and a flower pot on April 25. WANT TO GO? 718-454-2786. queenslibrary.org.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Queens Jazz OverGround Spring Jazz Fest FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 12-10pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The Queens Jazz OverGround presents the annual Jazz Fest. WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Spring Performance Festival

WHEN: Sunday, April 15, 12-6pm WHERE: P.S. 1, 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The festival brings together work from artists that intersect music, art, and nightlife. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 students; free for children 16 and younger. 718392-6447. moma.org/sundaysessions.

Children’s Carnival

WHEN: April 7-15, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy two full weekends of fun with carnival rides, hayrides, midway games, prizes, and food vendors. WANT TO GO? $15 includes carnival rides; prices vary for other activities. 718-347-3276. queensfarm.org.

Earth Day Shore Fest Spring Kickoff FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 1-5pm WHERE: Astoria Park Main Lawn, 19th Street between Astoria Park South and Ditmars Boulevard, Astoria AGES: All WHAT: The celebration will feature community volunteer opportunities, free public programming, live music by local artists, a scavenger hunt, child-friendly games, fitness activities, prizes, and more. WANT TO GO? 646-404-4103. astoriaparkalliance.org.

Cherry Blossom Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 12pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate spring and Japanese culture with paper flower making, face painting, kite flying, yoyo balloon fishing, origami with Taro’s Origami Studio, try on a kimono and more. WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Arbor Day Fun: Fun Friday FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 27, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Celebrate Arbor Day and the role of trees in our lives. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Arbor Fest

WHEN: Sunday, April 29, 11am-5pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a variety of activities including live music, arts and crafts, demonstrations, a petting zoo, and local food vendors. WANT TO GO? $10; $8 children. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME Storytelling and Haiku Workshops FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 1pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Tina Seligman offers an afternoon of storytelling from different cultures and traditions followed by a haiku workshop to write about the sun and moon and create stories through poetry. WANT TO GO? 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Storytime & Craft

WHEN: April 7-8, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Bring your little nature lovers to hear seasonally inspired stories that will open their imaginations to the natural worlds, plus a craft. WANT TO GO? $6; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and younger. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Toddler Tales: ‘10 Little Rubber Ducks’

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 10:30am WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Take an adventure with 10 little ducks as they meet new animal friends in Eric Carle’s colorful book. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $21. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Pajama Story Time: Wild Explorations FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 20, 5:30pm WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Hike the zoo, see animals up close, and discover why spring is great time to learn about young animals. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $35 snacks included. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

Storytime: Wednesday Morning FREE

WHEN: Through April 25: Wednesdays, 10:45-11:30am WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: A morning of stories, songs, crafts, and lots of fun. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Disney Storytime and Karoke Series FREE

WHEN: April 6-27, Fridays, 4pm WHERE: Queensboro Hill Library, 60-05 Main St., Flushing AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Come celebrate the new Disney book corner in the library. WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332. queenslibrary.org.

Family Storytime with Queens Author/Illustrator Voncille Chaney FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 1-3pm WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Queens native Voncille Y. Chaney will read her picture book I am Queen Ruby!, about a little girl who is teased for having darker skin. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Story Night FREE

WHEN: Monday, April 30, 6pm WHERE: Woodhaven Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 3-8, adult WHAT: An interactive adventure into the imagination, followed by a craft. WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. queenslibrary.org. ›› QueensParent 35

SMARTY PANTS Whose Planet Is It? FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 10, 4pm WHERE: Woodhaven Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about the world by participating in interactive games. WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. queenslibrary.org.

Rhyme Time FREE

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Easter Egg Hunt 2018 FREE

WHEN: Monday, April 2, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Lewis H. Latimer House Museum, 3441 137th St., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join other families in this tradition of Easter Egg Hunt in the garden of historic home. WANT TO GO? 718-961-8585. easter2018llh.eventbrite.com.

Turnip the Beet

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 1pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 5-12 WHAT: During this gardening club tweens can build agriculturalist, survivalist, and naturalist skills while working on environmental stewardship projects in the park. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $24. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Tulip Time

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 12-4pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate spring and see more than 20,000 bulbs. The day includes hourly tulip tours and tulip and flower inspired crafts. Some activity prices vary. WANT TO GO? $6; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children younger than 3. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Astoria Park Cleanup: Community Volunteer Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 10am-12pm WHERE: Astoria Park, 19th Street between Astoria Park South and Ditmars Boulevard, Astoria AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Help cleanup and beautify Astoria Park park. Work clothes and closed toe shoes required, tools and gloves will be provided. Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray. WANT TO GO? 646-404-4103. astoriaparkalliance.org.

WHEN: April 3-17, Tuesdays, 3:30pm WHERE: Peninsula Library, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children learn through the use of rhymes. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

Health Challenge FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, April 18, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Compete to learn about nutrition tips, healthy habits, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Nutrition Workshop for Kids FREE

WHEN: April 5-19, Thursdays, 2:30pm WHERE: Hollis Library, 202-05 Hillside Ave., Hollis AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This three-part series will explore how the body works, eating a balanced meal, reading food labels, and being active for 60 minutes a day. WANT TO GO? 718-465-7355. queenslibrary.org.

STEAM Explorers FREE

WHEN: April 5-26, Thursdays, 4pm WHERE: Astoria Library, 14-01 Astoria Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Enjoy learning science, technology, engineering, art, and math concepts through simple science experiments, art and crafts, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-278-2220. queenslibrary.org.

Fun Friday and STEAM Friday FREE

WHEN: Through April 26: Fridays, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137th Ave., Jamaica AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Mix it up with karaoke, board games, and more. Every other Friday will feature STEAM activities. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Coding Classes for Kids FREE

WHEN: April 7-28, Saturdays, 3pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: 9-12 WHAT: This program introduces children to coding. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

2018 QBG Bird Walks with NYC Audubon

WHEN: April 28-June 9, Saturday-Sunday, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Register for one or all five free nature walks in this series with NYC Audubon. Spot and identify creatures of flight and learn how QBG provides important resources for birds, such as water, shelter, and insects to eat. WANT TO GO? $6; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children younger than 3. 718-886-3800. qbgbirdwalks2018.eventbrite.com. 36

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Coming up next month: MAY 11: STEM Career Expo at New York Hall of Science, Corona MAY 12: Spring Fest at Queens County Farm Museum, Floral Park MAY 20: Music In The Garden: Quintet of the Americas at Queens Botanical Garden, Flushing

April things to do

where-to guide

✿

Compiled by Samantha Neudorf

Activities

Courtesy Brooklyn Cyclones

They say April showers bring May flowers, but why should a little rain stop you from getting outside? With the onset of warmer weather (and quite frankly more daylight now that we have sprung forward for Daylight Saving Time), there is no excuse to hibernate at home anymore. Get out to a farmers’ market to gather local, in-season produce or head to a fundraising walk to support a cause. Minor league baseball season is also around the corner, which is always a great reason to root for your home team. And finally, books are always in season, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t pay a visit your local bookstore to sharpen your child’s mind and imagination.

FARMERS’ MARKETS Jackson Heights Greenmarket

✿

34th Avenue, between 79th and 80th streets, Jackson Heights 212-788-7900; grownyc.org/greenmarket/queens/jackson-heights Hours: Year-round: Sundays, 8am-2pm The Jackson Heights Greenmarket celebrates one of the most diverse areas of the city with a wide selection of vegetables, fruit, eggs, fish, honey, chicken, and specialty Mexican produce. Enjoy community activities, cooking demonstrations, live music, and recipe exchanges at this market. Find more>> farmers’ markets in Queens at nymetroparents.com/farmers-markets.

MCU Park offers a unique view of the Parachute Jump and the Atlantic Ocean.

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL 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 16; tickets: $10-$17 in advance Through Field of Dreams, youth baseball, softball, and Little League teams can stand, in uniform, with the Cyclones while the national anthem plays at the start of the game (you must purchase a minimum of 20 tickets to participate). Fireworks are free after every Friday and Saturday home game. On Sundays, kids can run the bases after the game and play catch on the field before the game.

Topos Bookstore Café

✿

BOOKSTORES

✿

Find more>> local minor league teams at nymetroparents.com/ballparks.

788 Woodward Ave., Ridgewood 347-927-5680; toposbookstore.com Part bookstore, part café, this shop caters to Queens residents who want to enjoy a cup of coffee along with their book browsing. While they only sell used books, there’s a good children’s selection, and you can bring in your old books in exchange for cash or store credit.

✿

Find more>> kid’s bookstores in Queens at nymetroparents.com/bookstores.

FUNDRAISING WALKS NAMIWalks Long Island/Queens

Jones Beach, 1 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh, Long Island namiwalks.org Supporting the National Alliance on Mental Illness, these walking events collectively are the largest and most successful mental illness awareness events in America. Funds raised at these walks support NAMI’s mission to build better lives for the 60 million Americans who experience a mental health condition each year. Join the Long Island/Queens walk May 5. Find more>> fundraising walks in the Queens area at nymetroparents.com/walks.

Peter Oberc Photography

Morgan I. celebrates her bat mitzvah, planned by The Event of a Lifetime Inc., with her friends

Planning a Blowout Birthday Party

››

Whether you’re celebrating a major milestone or simply want to have an extra-special party, these tips from event planners can help you create a totally terrific bash. By Samantha Neudorf

hen I turned 9, my mom planned a birthday party I will never forget: She rented a limousine for my friends and me to ride in for an afternoon tea party. We dressed up in gowns and heels, got our hair and nails done, and then enjoyed finger sandwiches, cookies, and lemonade as we were chauffeured around town. To this day it has been a favorite birthday party of mine, and a memory I continue to treasure. Birthdays are occasions that kids will remember for the rest of their lives, and birthday parties are a way to hold those memories in place. Sometimes, you want to make those celebrations extra-big, either because you’re marking a major milestone—such as a bar or bat mitzvah, quinceañera, or sweet 16—or simply for the fun of it. Planning a blowout birthday party can feel daunting, though. Where do you even begin? We asked event planners (though you may think they’re only for weddings, you can find those who plan children’s birthday parties, too) what to keep in mind.

Pick the venue and DJ (if you’re having one) first.

The venue is key when piecing together the rest of the details for your child’s party. This locks you into a specific neighborhood or town, and helps narrow down the options for additional elements, if desired, such as caterers and entertainment. If you’re planning a bar or bat mitzvah and live in a town with a large Jewish population, it’s crucial to book your venue early. “If you wait too long, you may end up with a venue that’s too big or not big enough, or too expensive and not your style because you were stuck with what was available,” says Melisa Imberman, president of The Event of a Lifetime Inc., an event planning company based in West38

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

chester County. Imberman even suggests booking the venue and DJ before your child gets a bar or bat mitzvah date from the temple. For other types of birthday parties, families should start booking a venue at least a month beforehand. Marla Mase, founder of PARTYpoopers, a kids’ party planning company serving the greater New York area, says families call her anywhere from a month to six months in advance for all types of parties, including first birthdays. Securing a venue also allows you (or your event planner, if you’re using one) to see the space and pick out the décor and design for the party. “You can’t really plan décor and design if you don’t know where [the venue] is because you need to know what kind of space you’re working with,” Mase says.

Set a budget.

There is no particular amount of money families should set aside when planning a birthday party; it really depends on what they’re willing to spend. One helpful hint is to decide what aspects of the party to prioritize. For example, a family planning a daughter’s sweet 16 may invest more in having a DJ and photo booth, and may opt for cheaper food because it’s not the focal point of the party. “Your number of guests is the biggest contributor to your budget,” Imberman says. “There are some variables that are not going to change with your number of guests, but there are some, like food and beverage, that will.” A benefit of hiring an event planner is they develop a rapport with vendors and venues and can offer discounts. Event planners have a list of clients they continually work with, which saves families the time and effort of doing their own research. “I represent a

potential party every weekend, so although most people want to make customers happy, [vendors] want to make me happy because I bring them repeated business,” Imberman says.

Adjust the party to your child’s personality.

Some kids may be outgoing and want the spotlight on them, and some may just want to lie low. Never force your child into a situation that would make him unhappy. The party and vibe should reflect your child’s personality and feel like it’s very much his own party. Mase plans parties for children of all ages and remembers planning a bat mitzvah for a shy girl who did not want a DJ or dancing, so she instead planned a murder mystery theme. “It was a huge success without any dancing,” Mase says. “You have to know your kids—don’t create an event for them that’s not for them.”

rowdy. “Sometimes kids are hanging out in the bathrooms trying to get alcohol,” Imberman says. “Security is very important.” It’s also advisable to have adult chaperones across the venue to monitor the kids.

Let the professionals do their jobs.

If you’re working with an event planner, resist the urge to become very hands-on and micromanage the details. It’s much wiser to trust that your event planner knows what she’s doing. “You’re hiring someone so that you can enjoy and be at your own party,” Mase says. “I have seen times where people undermined their own events because they were not having fun.” There’s no use in worrying about potential problems—that’s what the event planner was hired to solve.

BIRTHDAY PARTY CHECKLIST

Discuss details.

Event planners consider everything when putting together a party, from when food will be served to when dancing should start, and serve as liaisons to all moving parts. It’s a smart strategy for families to follow as well. For example, if there will be a candle lighting ceremony or speech, make sure that the first course of a meal will not be served at the same time, because no one will be able to hear what’s being said. If there will be a first dance, it shouldn’t start until after food service, so guests can finish their meals without the food getting cold. “Even if you have the best caterer and the best DJ, they likely will not talk to each other before the day, Imberman says: “I do a very detailed timeline and communicate it with everyone prior rather than running into an issue before the party.”

Whether you hire an event planner or not, here is a helpful checklist of things to keep in mind when putting together your child’s birthday party. • • • • • • • • • •

Consider hiring security.

It’s strongly recommended for sweet 16s, when teenagers may get

GHT SUMMER IS RI RNER! AROUND THE CO

Pick a date and time Secure a venue Choose your DJ or entertainment Send out invitations Select a theme and décor Arrange food and catering (don’t forget the cake and candles!) Designate a photographer Plan your outﬁt Make party favors Mail thank-you cards

COME W ITH US TO CAMP!

SAMUEL FIELD Y DAY CAMPS Low Camper / Staff Ratios

★

Customizable Session Options

★

Camps for Children with Special Needs

★

Elective Programming

★

Academic Enrichment Available

★

Extended Hours (AM/PM)

★

Transportation Options

★

Indoor & Outdoor Programs

★

Exciting Trips & Travel Options

★

1199, ACD, & HRA Accepted

SFY

DAY CAMP

★

Camp Open House Sunday, April 29th 12 - 3 PM Take a tour of our beautiful campgrounds, and enjoy an afternoon of fun camp activities!

75 Colonial Springs Road Wheatley Heights

718-225-6750 X261 AGAVORA@SFY.ORG WWW.SFYSUMMERCAMPS.ORG QueensParent 39

Easy as Pie— Er...Cake ››

Three birthday cakes you can bake with your kids

f you’re throwing a birthday party for your child, impress everyone by baking your own homemade birthday cake—and get your children involved in the process! These three recipes are easy enough for kids to help make and will get them excited about baking and decorating. Besides, who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?

Teddy Bear Cake

This would be the perfect cake to make for a younger brother or sister’s birthday. The cute smile is made out of delicious chocolate candy. You will have three cupcakes left over when you have made your bear, so you can check how good your cake is before the party! Serves 10 You will need 1 quantity Large Vanilla or Chocolate Cake 1 quantity Small Vanilla or Chocolate Cake 1 quantity Chocolate Fudge Frosting Assorted chocolate drops and buttons

2 8-inch round cake pans Non-stick baking parchment 12-hole muffin pan, lined with 6 paper cupcake cases and 1 mini paper cupcake case Large plate or board with room for the cake, ears, and ribbon

Directions 1. P reheat the oven. Ask an adult to help you turn the oven on to 350°F, so it will be hot by the time you are ready to bake. 2. Put one of the round cake pans on the baking parchment and draw around it twice to make two circles. Cut them out. Scoop a little soft butter onto a paper towel and rub this all over the inside of the pans. Put the parchment circles into the bases of the pans and leave to one side. 3. M ake the large quantity of cake batter and spoon it evenly into the two pans. Ask an adult to help you put it onto the middle shelf of the oven for about 30 minutes. Check that the cakes are done by pushing a metal skewer into the middle of one. If it comes out clean, the cake is cooked. Leave them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack. Turn them the right way up and leave to cool completely. 4. While the big cake is cooking, make the small quantity of 40

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

cake batter. Spoon the batter into the mini cupcake case first and then evenly into the other cupcake cases. Ask an adult to help you put these onto the middle shelf of the oven and set a timer for 15 minutes. When the timer goes off, take out the mini cake and set the timer for another 10 minutes to finish cooking the other cupcakes. Leave the cakes in the tin to cool for 10 minutes and then move them to the wire rack to cool completely. 5. Make the Chocolate Fudge Frosting while the cakes are cooling. 6. Use a long, serrated knife to level the tops of the big cakes, if they are not flat. Place one cake on the serving plate and spread 3-4 tablespoons of chocolate frosting over the top. Put the second cake on top. Use three-quarters of the remaining chocolate frosting to cover the top and sides of the whole cake, spreading it evenly with a palette knife. 7. Cover the tops of two cupcakes with frosting. These are the teddy’s ears but they will need to be raised, so peel the paper case off another cupcake and cut it in half horizontally. Put one half under each ear and put the ears in their place by the head. The ears should now be roughly the same height as the cake. 8. Peel the paper case off the mini cupcake and completely cover it with frosting. Put it in the middle of the cake to make the teddy’s nose. Arrange the chocolate drops on the face for the eyes, mouth, and ears. Make a bow out of ribbon and place at the teddy’s neck.

Design, photography, and illustration by CICO Books 2017. Reprinted from My First Cookie & Cake Decorating Book with permission of CICO Books.

Find the cake and frosting recipes you’ll need for this cake, as well as recipes for a Chocolate Fudge Birthday Cake and Lemon Cake with Candles at ›› nymetroparents.com/kids-cakes

BIRTHDAY MARKETPLACE

Superkickers Summer Camp Best Day Camp in Jackson Heights! Ages 4-12 Soccer • Arts • Music Piano • STEAM/Robotics Cooking and more!

Where Birthdays Come to Life! Where Birthdays Come to Life! ®

• • • • • •

Private Bounce Stadiums Private Party Rooms Giant Indoor Inflatables Easy to do! Dedicated Party Pros We Clean Up!

BounceU of College Point • (646) 883-5867 13225 14th Avenue • College Point, NY BounceU.com/college-point-ny

POParazzi….

Discover the power of family music-making.

Let our balloons INVADE your next event

Astoria, Bayside, Forest Hills, and More

SOC SOCCER Ages 18 Months & Up

Year-Round Soccer Program General Classes After School Summer Camp Futsal League Travel Team Birthday Party All Girls Class Soccer in Spanish

To Advertise Call 212-315-0800

Balloons for ALL Occasions Columns, Arches, Centerpieces and more! Corporate Accounts Welcomed Bulk Balloons by the Dozens

POParazzi Balloons & Event Space 61-19 Fresh Pond Road Middle Village NY 11379 347-204-5252 Visit us at POParazzievents.com

Email us at poparazziballoons@yahoo.com

@poparazziballoons QueensParent 41

raising kids baby

Sponsored by

What Makes Toddlers Tick Why toddlers do the weird things they do.

y toddler will not keep his clothes on. Seconds upon entering our apartment he strips down to his diaper and pretty much stays like that until it’s time to leave again. He also answers almost every question with a “no,” and will only eat out of a green bowl. While we entertain this weirdness because he is only 2, it turns out it might not be so weird after all. I’m sure most parents of toddlers have at least a few things they consider out-of-the-ordinary behavior, and like me, find themselves constantly chasing after a naked dictator while dodging attacks from his green bowl. Toddlers are new to this earth and are figuring things out at their own speed and in their own weird way. Read on for some of the strangest things they do, and why they do them.

No Means No

Chances are if you ask a toddler a question, you will be met with… “No!” “Do you want to go outside?” “No.” “Do you want to eat dinner?” “No.” “How about you put some pants on.” “No!” That last one wasn’t really a question, but you get my drift. So what’s with the negative attitude, tots? Turns out, it’s not 42

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

››

By Bethany Braun-Silva

really so negative. Toddlers who are learning to express themselves use “no” as way to assert their independence and gain just a bit of control in a world where they are constantly told what to do and when to do it. “Toddlers are gaining independence from their parents. Up until about eighteen months or so, kids really feel as though they are one with their mom (or primary caregiver). Their little brains don’t have the maturity to understand seeing the perspective of another person,” says Amy Webb, creator of the blog thoughtfulparent.com, who has a doctorate in Human Development and Family Sciences and is mom of two. “So as they are gaining this independence, they want to ‘do it myself’ for just about everything, and this could include dressing or just about anything else.” While hearing “no” from your toddler all day long can be increasingly frustrating, just know it means your little one is growing up and growing into herself. Here’s what you can do if your child’s refusal is becoming a bit too much: • Offer choices. Instead of telling your child to put pants

on, ask what color pants he would like to wear today. This leaves little room for a negative answer. • Make it a learning game. Help your child count how many peas are left on her plate as she eats them one at a time. Make it fun! • Watch your language. Toddlers are sponges and will pick up your behavior. Instead of telling your spouse, “No, I’m not watching another episode of The Bachelor tonight,” try saying, “How about we watch a movie we will all enjoy.” • Don’t back down. Toddlers can be defiant, but they need their parents to set boundaries. If what your child is saying no to is a non-negotiable, stand your ground. It will get better.

Again, Again!

I have seen Moana at least 50 times. While it’s a great movie, I’m ready to move on. In fact, since starting this article we have moved on…I am currently on my 20th viewing of Trolls. Ughhhhh. When my toddler finds a movie he likes, he will watch it every day, sometimes twice a day. Melissa Robles from Kew Gardens, Queens, has the same issue with her 2½-year-old. “Gracie is obsessed with reading Green Eggs and Ham. She would have me read it to her ten times in a day, and on more than one occasion, I have,” she says. While this repetition is frustrating for parents, it’s extremely comforting for little ones. “Toddlers really thrive on repetition and it makes them feel safe and it’s also exciting and fun to them,” says Tanya Altmann, M.D., pediatrician, mother, and author of Baby & Toddler Basics: Expert Answers to Parents’ Top 150 Questions. “They like patterns, they like counting the steps walking up to preschool the same way every day, and will get mad if you skip a step.” Toddlers rely on repetitive behavior to know what to expect. Their communications skills are so minimal at this age that knowing what to expect is, in fact, key to their health and happiness. Repetition is actually a great tool for parents, too because if you stick to the same routine, your toddler will know what’s expected of him and will likely do it. Dr. Altmann suggests using this behavior to your advantage. “The good thing about repetition is that you can change any toddler behavior that you want to change. Whether it’s getting them to sleep through the night or eat green vegetables, as long as you’re consistent for a week and offer positive reinforcements and ignore undesired behavior, you can change their behavior,” she says.

Nudity, Nose Picking, and Head Banging

No, this is not the name of the latest Tarantino film, but rather three distinct (and strange) behaviors you might witness from your little one. As I mentioned earlier, the main problem we deal with in our family is getting my toddler to keep his clothes on. While

we manage to keep our little nudist contained at home, sometimes he starts stripping in public. Toddlers have no concept of what’s socially acceptable, so they don’t really see this as a problem. Same goes for nose picking. If your toddler has an itch or a booger, she will stick her finger up her nose because she doesn’t realize it’s a gross thing to do. Teaching your toddler social cues and what’s expected of him in the house and outside of the house will go a long way to making his behavior more acceptable. As for head banging, that’s a bit different. Some toddlers will bang their heads against their crib at night or before falling asleep for a nap. While this behavior can seem worrisome or outright scary, it’s actually completely normal and a way for your toddler to self-soothe. Often head banging happens at night as way for her to get herself to sleep. She is soothed by the rhythm she is creating and will most likely outgrow it in no time.

When to Worry

Toddlers definitely display some strange behaviors from time to time, but there are certain behaviors that could raise a red flag. For instance if your child is using the above-mentioned head banging as a way of cutting off interaction from you and others, it might be time to reach out to your pediatrician. Also, “if your child consistently is testing limits to the point where it’s driving you crazy and it’s disrupting everyone in the house and causing a lot of extra stress, that could be a sign that there is something else going on with your toddler, and you may want to talk to your pediatrician,” Dr. Altmann says. Rafi Bilek, LCSW, director of Baltimore Therapy Center, suggests parents watch out for certain behaviors, as they may be indicators of something more serious going on, such as autism or a behavioral disorder: • Regression in language or motor skills (e.g., child was using many words but then can’t seem to speak in words at all; child was running but now can’t seem to walk) • Child screams for hours without a break • Child clutches at private parts anxiously (possible sign of sexual abuse) • Child is violent to the point of causing serious injury to self or others As the parent, you know your child. If any of your toddler’s behaviors seem really strange or off to you, make an appointment with his pediatrician or even ask to chat over the phone. That’s what they’re there for. Raising a toddler is one of the most challenging times for parents—they don’t call it the Terrible 2s for nothing. One thing I know for sure is my toddler is weird (but adorable!), and it’s my job as his mom to help him feel comfortable and safe enough to let his little freak flag fly.

From our sponsors: The mission of Allied Foundation is to impact and improve the health and well-being of residents within Allied Physicians Group’s geographical footprint, which currently includes Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk), Queens, Brooklyn, Richmond, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange. The Allied Foundation funds community-based strategies and initiatives, including Breastfeeding Support (toll-free Support Line: 866-621-2769; Breast Milk Depots), Community Education (free app—AlliedPG—and lectures about such topics as ADHD, managing food allergies, behavioral health, and infant CPR), Early Childhood Literacy (proud partner of Reach Out and Read and The BookFairies); and Community Service (Diaper Bank of Long Island). For more information, visit alliedfoundation.org. QueensParent 43

raising kids teen

Is Your Child Ready to Be a CIT? ››

Find out what being a counselor-in-training really means, and what camp directors look for in their trainees. By Lambeth Hochwald

f you’re the parent of a teen who lives for anything related to camp, now might be the time to talk to him about applying for a summer job as a counselor-in-training. Turns out, becoming a CIT is the next best thing to being a camper because your teen will get firsthand experience and job training, and have a little fun, too.

How Do I Know My Child Is Ready?

Your teenager may have set up many a lemonade stand or sold Girl Scout cookies, but for most kids a CIT position will be their first job. As a parent, you’ll know that your teen is a great CIT candidate if he or she is extra trustworthy. “An important question for parents to consider is, ‘Would I trust my teen to watch other people’s children?’ suggests Michael Halpern, director of Mosholu Day Camp in the Bronx. If your answer is yes, “That’s usually a good sign that you, as a parent, think that your child would be a great counselor-in-training.” Also ask yourself how reliable your teen is, says Colleen Barnhart, camp director at Camp Claire in Lyme, CT. “When you ask him or her to do something and walk away, does it get done?” she asks. Again, if you’re able to answer ‘yes’ to this question, your child probably is conscientious enough to make a good CIT. To help your teen get ready for the job, give her responsibilities around the house and hold her accountable, Barnhart says. “Assign her chores, show her exactly how to do them by participating with her as a partner, and then have her do that task alone the next week. If she messes up, don’t tell her that it is not her fault. Instead, be constructive. Tell her it’s okay because she is learning and show her how to do better next time.” There’s one more important character trait your child should have: He should really love camp. At Mosholu, for example, 95 44 April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

percent of CITs are ex-campers, and supervisors there have worked up the ranks all the way from their days as campers to unit leader. “The perfect CIT is one who grew up in my camp because they know how things go,” Halpern says. “That’s even more important to us than an application filled with babysitting experience. The fact that you’ve been in camp means that you know about the group dynamic,” Halpern explains. “As CITs, you’re not going to be oneon-one with a child ever, so we need to know that you’ve had that experience interacting in groups.” Last of all, make sure your teen has the right motivation for applying for a CIT job. Does he want to work with kids, or does he just want to be back at camp? “CIT work is hard work,” Barnhart says. “To know if your child is really ready to be a CIT, ask what his goals are for the summer. Be sure he’s clear on why he wants this job.”

The Qualities Camp Directors Value

One of the key qualities of a CIT is an eagerness to to learn. “I want my CITs to take on a leadership role and add more responsibilities as they get experiences,” says Peter Corbin, founder and director of Corbin’s Crusaders Sports Club in Greenwich, CT, who hires five to 10 CITs each summer. “When they come to us as a CIT they don’t have a lot of experience. That’s why at the beginning we give them a taste of responsibility, and as they get more and more successful, we give them more. If they’re not as successful, we’ll give them more direction.” The other qualities camp directors look for include good communication skills, maturity, responsibility, respect, care for others, interest in working and engaging with children, teamwork, and initiative, Barnhart says.

“At the beginning, initiative looks like being a willing buddy to a camper for trips to the bathroom or nurse,” she explains. “It’s also helping campers clean their area without being asked, and starting games with campers during downtime...Initiative is one of many qualities that is important for a camp staff to function as a team, because that is what we essentially are when it comes down to it.” Familiarity with the camp can also be an important factor when a teen is hired to be a CIT, Halpern says. “We look at the type of camp they went to and if their camp was similar to ours,” he says. In the end, a meeting without the parents present is a critical part of most hiring procedures. “We like to have a conversation with teens— without their parents there—so we can speak to their maturity and their abilities to be outgoing and friendly,” Halpern says.

What Kids Can Expect From a CIT Program

As a CIT, your teen may stay with her assigned bunk or switch around the camp depending on the need for extra help. She could be asked to pitch in on a variety of tasks, such as setting up the baseball fields before campers arrive (including making sure all the equipment is in place), assisting the arts and crafts counselors, or helping the swim instructors. “Typically we give the CITs the option to either be with a group or with an activity,” Corbin says. “I’ve had CITs learn how to become swim instructors and ultimately work as lifeguards, while others tend to work with a particular age group all summer.” Regardless, CITs should expect to always have someone supervising them. Your child should also be prepared for long, tiring days. “CITs tend to get tired very easily because they’re working the full day and may have never done so before,” Corbin says. “They realize quickly that the work isn’t always easy, but it’s also really wonderful to see their sense of pride in the job—they often tell me how cool it was to work with such and such kids, or do a particular job.”

In addition, Barnhart says that while CITs should expect fun lessons and team-building activities, they should also realize that, unlike camp itself, not every second is going to be fun. “Working at a camp is a lot of hard, sometimes gross work, especially at resident camps where we are on duty twenty hours a day, six days a week,” she says. “CITs will get tired and frustrated, but it is all part of the process of maturing and learning how to be a camp counselor.” Another thing your child needs to realize is he will in all likelihood not get paid. CITs “are legally campers, so they pay to attend, but we write them letters for community service hours,” Barnhart says. Of course, CIT experience may lead to a paid counselor job in future years. For some kids, it can be a bit of a transition to move from camper to counselor. Barnhart understands this. “I firmly believe in giving CITs the chance to grow into the role and rise to expectations, which is why I don’t call them ‘kids’ anymore,” she says. “They are no longer campers, except legally, so we start treating them like the young adults they are. They are never in charge of supervision but they certainly can assist us with it.” In the end, consider this: Being a CIT is essentially one giant job interview for the next year. “We look for CITs to use feedback to grow,” Barnhart says. “We constantly give CITs feedback on how they are doing, what their strengths are, what we would like to see more of, and specifically what negative behaviors we would like them to be aware of and change. A great CIT will often go out of their way to ask for feedback...reflect on it, and actively try to do better.” That feedback loop is what will enable your teen to become a CIT and then, hopefully, be asked back as a counselor for a future summer. Lambeth Hochwald is a New York City-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in New York City.

HILLCREST JEWISH CENTER DAY CAMP

Celebrating 60 Years Of Camp!!!

“The Camp Where Everybody Knows Your Name” SUNDAYS 10am - 12pm & WEDNESDAYS 7 - 9pm The Oﬃce Will Be Open For Tours and Registrations Program for Children 4-14 Years Old

• Extended Hours for Working Parents • Red Cross Swim Program • Sports (Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball) • Music & Arts and Crafts • Large Gymnasium & Recreation Room • Catered Kosher Lunches & PM Snacks

• End of the Summer Carnival • Day Trips (Adventureland, Laser Bounce, Splish Splash and more) • Early Morning Supervision • In Camp Overnight • Weekly Cookouts • Door to Door Transportation

rtial Full & Pa grams ro P n so a Se Available

LARGE INDOOR POOL!

New For 2018! Special ½ Day Trips for Younger Campers (4-7 Years Old) Like us on

@hjcdaycamp

183-02 Union Tpke., Flushing 11366 • hjcdaycamp.org • daycamp@hillcrestjc.org • Call 718-380-4145 QueensParent 45

Camps for Older Kids Blue Dolphin Summer Camp

CK Kids Summer Camps

108-21 72nd Ave. (4th floor), Forest Hills 718-268-2280 allstarstudiosnyc.com allstarstudios@gmail.com New to dance? Interested in trying different dance genres? Maybe your dancer only takes one style of dance class during the year and is curious about other styles? Our Summer Intensive is a great way to help your child become a well-rounded dancer. Our professional dance instructors will teach your child new steps, technique, and choreography while having a lot of fun! You may discover a love for tap dancing or that you are a natural ballerina! The three-day August intensive is for pre-teens and teens.

80-22 Parsons Blvd., Queens 718-847-6470 bluedolphincamp.com info@bluedolphincamp.com Blue Dolphin Summer Camp is a place where friends return each summer to rekindle the magic and spirit unique to Blue Dolphin. Its commitment to outstanding service and quality has enabled us to create an environment in which children learn, grow, and flourish. Discover the ultimate summer camp for kids ages 3-15. Program hours are 9am-4pm. Free extended hours (7-9am and 4-6pm). Bus service available. Campers may enroll for two-eight weeks, and they do not have to be consecutive. Register early to ensure best rate and payment options. Visit our website for open house dates.

American Dance & Drama

Camp Clio

Cunningham Tennis

CAMPS FOR OLDER KIDS All Star Studios

188-22 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-479-8522 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village americandanceanddramastudio.com American Dance & Drama Studio is the original neighborhood school that was established more than 44 years ago at the same location. We offer quality teaching and an extremely professional staff, while maintaining a fun and exciting environment. Come visit our multi-level, high-tech studios—the largest in Queens at 7,000 square feet! We offer classes for ages 2 through adults in all types of dance, as well as gymnastics, drama, Zumba, and singing. Our summer camp programs offer full-day, half-day, and single classes for ages 3-14. Call now to register!

Beth Sholom Day Camp

401 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights 516-621-9257 bethsholomdaycamp.com Upper Camp for fifth-eighth grades offers girls a traditional camp with an enhanced focus on the arts. Boys take part in our Sports Academy, with an emphasis on athletics. Both groups have electives in their schedules. The Upper Camp schedule includes weekly trips out of camp, and two overnights. CIT Program for ninth and 10th grades involves a half day of regular camp schedule, and the rest working with a specific group. Our CIT program includes weekly field trips, community service projects, and two overnights. CITs receive training to acquire leadership and teambuilding skills.

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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

Cary Leeds Center Tennis Camp

1720 Crotona Ave., Bronx 718-247-7420 caryleedstennis.org caryleedsinfo@nyjtl.org Seven-time Grand Slam Champion and executive director, Liezel Huber, invites you to The Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning. The team of world-class coaches welcome you to have fun, train hard, and improve your game. All ages and levels are welcome! Development level campers spend the day keeping active on court, making new tennis friends, and having a blast! Low compression balls are utilized to accelerate learning and make mastering skill and technique easier. Competition level training allows players to sharpen skills, improve technique, and understand high-performance play strategy.

Ages: 3-16 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 718-366-7454 ctkny.org jmichel@ctkny.org Christ the King has four exciting summer camps to choose from: soccer, basketball, cheerleading, and dance and drama. Campers ages 11–16 have the opportunity to develop their individual and team athletic skills with coaches from the high school, college, and professional level. Drama campers perform and practice toward a fully staged choreographed musical in our state-of-the-art 1,400 seat theater. Dance campers will learn technique from top industry professionals from Broadway, TV, and film. 196-00 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-740-6800 cunninghamtennis.com Facebook: @cunninghamtennis Instagram: @cunninghamtennis info@cunninghamtennis.com Cunningham Tennis & Sports Camp aims to provide kids ages 11-18, an active and healthy summer and lifelong memories. Rain or shine campers will get to experience professional tennis instruction from USPTA-certified professional coaches along with playing various other sports including basketball, soccer, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, and swimming. Also scheduled are field trips every two weeks including to the US OPEN. Lunch is provided in our air-conditioned clubhouse, and transportation is available upon request.

Girl’s & Boy’s Basketball and Beyond

55-11 Queens Blvd., Woodside 718-697-1699 girlsbasketballbeyond@gmail.com Girl’s & Boy’s Basketball and Beyond Summer Camp for ages 11-16 focuses on teaching your teen a holistic approach to learning basketball. Our all-day camps also include nutrition and education. Campers will spend part of their day in the classroom engaging in fun and interactive lectures. At this age body image, especially for girls, is vital. Therefore, learning how to make healthier food choices is priceless. In addition, the classroom education lectures will be taught by elite college professors. Your teen’s camp experience is sure to be everlasting!

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp

183-02 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-380-4145 hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org The Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp offers tweens and young teens, ages 11-14, a variety of exciting programs. All groups go on three age-appropriate outings every week. The tweens are offered an extra half-day trip as well. The boys have Kra Maga (Israeli Defense) classes weekly, while the girls participate in dance, which includes hip-hop and jazz. Our age 14 group is enrolled in our CIT (Counselor-in-Training) Program with the hopes of one day gaining employment at the camp.

iCodingClub

35-30 Francis Lewis Blvd., Suite 204, Bayside 949-303-9986 icodingclub.com info@icodingclub.com iCodingClub is offering students age 11 and older weeklong summer classes that have one goal: all students must be able to build their own website by the end of the program. The world is transitioning into a digital economy and computer coding is a necessary skill set. As students learn to code, they also develop a strict discipline called computational thinking. Computational thinking trains students to solve large problems by crunching them down to a streak of small problems. Summer camps are taught at our new location in Bayside!

JEI Learning Centers

Auburndale: 347-408-4098 Floral Park: 718-347-3138 jei.com At JEI, we offer “A Better Life Through Better Education”. Our Self-Learning Method will teach your child to be an independent problem solver and a confident, critical thinker. With the help of our qualified instructors, your child can master the core subjects of Math, up to high school geometry, and English or take on the challenge of Problem Solving Math, Reading and Writing, and Critical Thinking. Enroll with JEI to give your child an academic advantage that will last a lifetime. Find a JEI center near you at jei.com.

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, director LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 liu.edu/giftedyouth The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the increasing recognition of society’s special responsibilities for children with demonstrably superior intellectual ability. The LIU Center for Gifted Youth brings together two important elements of education for the gifted: extraordinary teachers recruited from leading schools in the metropolitan area and university-level facilities. These two factors, combined with an administrative and psychological team schooled in the needs of gifted children, give the program at LIU Post unique strengths in producing positive benefits for young people admitted to the program.

Magic Day Camp

216-15 Peck Ave., Bayside 718-634-8109 magicdaycamp.com Magic Day Camp, “Where Every Day Is Magical,” offers children ages 4-15 adventures and activities that stimulate and motivate a young person’s mind and physical ability. We are the only traveling camp that swims every day in an Olympic country club pool, in addition to a jam-packed fun day with professional adult counselors who work with and understand children. With multiple exciting weekly trips, our rates include door-to-door transportation, hot and cold healthy lunches, professional tennis, dance, and instructional sports programs for all children.

Camp Clio

eventh S r u O nd Year a g din Expan ion iss Our M

a seriously fun place for adopted children... Youths and Teens Camp Clio

Held at Camp Claire Lyme, CT

Camp Clio Teen

(Ages 13 - 16)

July 1-6 or July 7-13, 2018 (1 or 2 weeks) Held at Middlesex County Camp Moodus, CT

YMCA

SUMMER CAMPS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

Nina’s Tutoring Center

8702 Grand Ave., Elmhurst 718-205-7508 92-22 Corona Ave., Elmhurst 718-606-1056 tutornina@hotmail.com We tutor kids in K-12th grades. For the past nine years, we have provided quality education that helps kids excel in school. Our excellent, highly dedicated, and experienced tutors are very competent. We specialize in homework help and offer critical thinking and writing classes. We help improve skills in math, ELA, science, and social studies. We also have an intensive preparation program for ELA, math, and science

(Ages 9 - 12)

July 1 to July 21, 2018 (1, 2, or 3 weeks)

10%

Early Bird Discount ENDS APRIL 21

NEW YORK CITY’S YMCA

ymcanyc.org/camp

continued on next page ››

QueensParent 47

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH

FALL 2017 AND SPRING 2018 SATURDAY PROGRAM Oct 7th – Dec 16th and Feb 3rd – April 28th, 2018 for students entering grades K-8

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

Robert Mann Dance Centre

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 37th annual fall and spring program for gifted children. The fall

program runs on Saturdays from October 7th to December 16th and the spring program runs on Saturdays from February 3rd to April 28th. The program is open to gifted children entering grades K-8 in September 2017. The program expands

students’ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

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

‹‹ continued from previous page

citywide and statewide exams. We opened our second branch on Corona Avenue to serve our community better. Please call to find out more about the programs we run throughout the year.

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

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

214-10 41st Ave., Bayside 718-225-3696 robertmanndance.com dmamann@aol.com Since 1965, we have stressed the importance of quality dance education and meeting the needs of both our students and the dance community. Our teaching staff consists of professional dancers and highly-skilled dance educators. We offer classes for all ages, year-round. This summer we will be offering several Summer Dance Intensive classes for different age divisions: Mini-Petite, Junior 9-12, and Teen-Senior 13 and older. Classes will be in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary-Musical Theatre, and Hip-Hop. Our first Dance Intensive week will be June 4-8. Call to find out more about our summer dance programs.

Samuel Field Y Day Camp

Want to know the best

activities for families? Subscribe to our family activity

email newsletter

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER 48

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-225-6750 x261 sfysummercamps.org agavora@sfy.org; dschaefer@sfy.org Incoming sixth and seventh graders join Tween Camp for a unique summer featuring the benefits of our outdoor campgrounds, day trips, and two four-day overnights designed to foster their growing sense of independence through exploring new cities with friends and counselors. Teen Travel is for campers entering eighth to 10th grades. Always on the move, teens experience a variety of NYC adventures through daily trips and two five-day excursions out of state. Counselor in Training Program for incoming 10th- and 11th-graders provides hands-on job training and experience working with children under guidance of camp professionals.

SUPERKICKERS Summer Camp Various locations throughout Queens 718-350-1535 superkickers.com

info@superkickers.com Superkickers Day Camp offers a great variety of activities for every age. Our STEAM-Robotics-Coding classes are a hit for kids ages 9-12. Other activities that will have kids using their creativity and keeping active during the summer include cartooning, soccer, Lego workshop, Zumba, acrobatics-obstacle course, cooking, Portuguese music, water slide, piano, and salsa! Kids have fun in a non-competitive environment while learning new skills. We have a fantastic well-trained and caring staff. Camp runs for eight weeks from July 2-Aug. 24. We are located in Jackson Heights.

USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Flushing Register now at: ntc.usta.com The USTA Billie Jean National Tennis Center offers year-round programs as well as fun-filled summer day camps for all ages and levels. We offer camps for the recreational student up to and including academy level players. Enrollment is available online at ntc.usta.com. Campers work on tennis techniques, tactics, sports conditioning, and strategy geared to maximize learning while having fun. As the students develop, they are advanced to more challenging groups. Our camp also offers cross-training activities, such as soccer, softball, basketball, and many field trips to venues located nearby.

Village East Gifted Camp ThinkTank Summer Program

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted, a year-round enrichment center for students ages 2-16, is offering 17 summer workshops many of which are designed for gifted students in fifth-eighth grades. Workshops are held between 4:30-8:30pm at its Huntington and Roslyn locations. Participants can sign up for just one or all of them. Topics covered include engineering, 3-D print-

ing, foreign language, business, physics, trigonometry, algebra, Newtonian Mechanics, oceanography, culinary art, and linguistic improvisation. Sibling, military, and multiple workshop discounts are available. Enroll early!

Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zoos and Aquarium

YMCA Summer Camps

1-800-433-4149 The Bronx Zoo 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx 718-220-5132 Central Park Zoo 830 Fifth Ave., Manhattan 212-438-6583 Queens Zoo 53-51 111th St., Corona 718-271-7361 Prospect Park Zoo 450 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn 718-399-7327 New York Aquarium 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn 718-265-3457 wcs.org/summercamps Summer just got wild! Send your animal-lover to summer camp at the Queens Zoo! Campers will enjoy up-close animal experiences, Wildlife Theater performances, and age appropriate, hands-on STEM activities. Explore Queens Zoo like you never have before! Use promo code NYMETRO to receive an exclusive 10-percent discount on your purchase of summer camp! For more information, please visit our website at wcs.org/parks/ camps, call 800-433-4149, or email qzeducation@wcs.org.

World of Discovery Day Camp

718-229-3037 worldofdiscovery.org info@worldofdiscovery.org World of Discovery Day Camp creates an environment where kids can just be kids. Since 1977, children ages 4-15 have enjoyed baseball, volleyball, basketball, gymnastics, dance and drama, carnivals, scavenger hunts, swimming, Olympic week, and trips.

LOOKING FOR

GREAT DEALS?

Counselors must meet stringent standards and all directors and assistant directors are New York state-certified and trained in CPR, first aid, and responding to emergency. All swim instructors are certified lifeguards. Door-todoor transportation is provided. ymcanyc.org/camp bit.ly/2FgUwLs rho@ymcanyc.org At YMCA Summer Camps, children learn leadership skills and develop self-confidence in a safe, accepting, and stimulating environment. They also build robots, go on field trips, shoot hoops, learn to swim, make new friends, and laugh all summer long! Our creative, educational camp programming— structured around the Y’s values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—helps campers reach their fullest potential, physically, mentally, and emotionally. With six locations in Manhattan and the Bronx, find the perfect camp for your child! Visit us at ymcanyc. org/camp to learn more today!

Young People’s Day Camp of Queens

800-856-1043 queenscamp.com Since 1972, our family-run camp has provided safe, fun-filled summers for thousands of Queens youngsters. YPDCQ is accredited by the American Camp Association. YPDCQ provides a dynamic, diversified, and professionally supervised program enabling children to see, try, and experience many activities. Activities include swimming, sports, arts and crafts, music and dance, nature science, academics, educational and recreational field trips as well as many other special events. Ages 4-15. Free transportation. Ask about our Premium Enrichment Programs. New For 2018: robotics, sibling discounts, special union rates!

Saving money on a New York City family day is easy! Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more. Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

DON’T LET YOUR KIDS’ SUMMER LOOK LIKE THIS...

AN ! C IT HIS N T E H E K W ... LI K LOO

WE TEACH LIFE SKILL S! Independ en

Integrity Teamwor k Friendship Leadersh ip

Open House Thursday April 12th 4:30pm - 6:30pm Saturday April 28th 11:00am - 1:00pm Thursday May 3rd 4:30pm - 6:30pm

718-847-6470 BlueDolphinCamp.com

80-22 Parsons Blvd. Queens NY 11432

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

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

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

Visit Visitus usat: at: www.worldofdiscovery.org www.worldofdiscovery.org QueensParent 49

All Star Studios allstarstudiosnyc.com

American Dance & Drama americandanceanddrama.net

8 8 8

Arts Dance Music Camp of Rego Park dancesource.net

Billie Jean King National Tennis Center ntc.usta.com

8 8 8

Blue Dolphin bluedolphincamp.com

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8

Camp Clio campclio.org

8 8 8

8 8

Camp Huntington camphuntington.com

8 8 8

8 8 8 8

Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning caryleedstennis.org CK Kids ctkny.org

8 8 8 8

Clover Prep - FasTracKids & JEI Learning Center - Fresh Meadows cloverprep.com

Countryside Montessori School cmsgn.com Cunningham Tennis cunninghamtennis.com

8 8

8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8

Girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basketball and Beyond girlsbasketballandbeyond.com

8 8

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp hjc.org

8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8

8 8

Hug Music hugmusicny.com iCodingClub icodingclub.com

8 8 8 8 8

ISTEIN Education Center isteinny.com

8 8 8

JEI Learning Center Floral Park jeif loralpark.com

8 8

JEI Learning Center Auburndale-Whitestone auburndale.jeilearning.com

Music

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

Swimming

Sports

Theater

STEAM/Robotics

PROGRAMS:

Half-Day

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Guide

SERVICES:

8 8 8 8 8 8 8

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

8 8 8

Kon Gen International Preschool

8 8

Mill Basin Day Camp millbasindaycamp.com

Oasis Camp in Bayside Queens oasischildren.com

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

Music

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8

Wildlife Conservation Society: Queens Zoo queenszoo.com

8 8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8

YMCA Summer Camps ymcanyc.org

8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8

The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School citgnurseryschool.org

Young People’s Day Camp of Queens queenscamp.com

Swimming

8 8 8 8

Soccer Friends USA soccerfriendsusa.com

World of Discovery Day Camp worldofdiscovery.org

Sports

8 8

Tiny Footsteps tinyfootstepsny.com

Theater

Rose Academy of Ballet roseacademyofballet.com

The Kew-Forest School kewforest.org

8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8

Suoerkickers Sports superkickers.com

8 8

8 8 8

Robert Mann Dance Centre robertmanndance.com

Samuel Field Y Summer Camp sfysummercamps.org

8 8

Music Together® with Music and Me musictogetherwithmusicandme.com Noah’s Ark Summer Camp noahsarkschool.com

STEAM/Robotics

Lewis H. Latimer House Museum latimernow.org Magic Day Camp magicdaycamp.com

PROGRAMS:

Half-Day

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Guide

SERVICES:

8 8 8

8 8

8 8 8 8

8 QueensParent 51

OPENHOUSES 2018 Beth Sholom Day Camp

401 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights 516-621-9257 bethsholomdaycamp.com Come check out Beth Sholom Day Camp on April 15 from 10am-1pm. Our facility offers ages 3-15, the opportunity to reach their goals in a friendly, noncompetitive atmosphere. No appointments necessary, private tours available.

Blue Dolphin Summer Camp

80-22 Parsons Blvd., Queens 718-847-6470 bluedolphincamp.com info@bluedolphincamp.com Join us for one of our open houses on Thursday, April 12 from 4:30-6:30pm, Saturday, April 28 from 11am–1pm, or Thursday, May 3 from 4:30-6:30pm.

Cunningham Tennis

196-00 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-740-6800 cunninghamtennis.com Facebook: @cunninghamtennis Instagram: @cunninghamtennis info@cunninghamtennis.com Learn about the 2018 summer camps and all of the junior and adult programs. Sign up for summer camp and receive a 10-percent. April 22, from 1-4pm.

The Discovery School for Inquiry and Research A STEAM Magnet School, PS 201

65-11 155th St., Flushing 718-759-4977 d2530magnet.com info@magnetschools.com Join us for an open house on Tuesday, April 10 or Wednesday, May 2 from 2:304pm. Now accepting applications for firstfifth grades.

The Harry T. Stewart, Sr. Magnet School for Engineering, Architecture & the Arts - PS92Q

99-01 34th Ave., Corona 718-533-1013 ps92q.org info@magnetschools.nyc Join us for an open house on Thursday, April 19 from 8:30-11am. Now accepting applications for first-fifth grades.

The Harry T. Stewart, Sr. Magnet School for Engineering, Architecture & the Arts - PS92Q 99-01 34th Ave., Corona 718-533-1013

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

ps92q.org info@magnetschools.nyc Join us for an open house STEM-tastic Evening on Wednesday, May 23 from 4:307:30pm. Hands-on learning activities for parents and children.

Come to our open house sessions on Sundays, April 8 and 22 from 1-3pm at Jib Lanes. Summer magic is here with swimming daily and three trips each week!

The Magnet School of Global Studies and Leadership PS/IS 200

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp

70-10 164th St., Flushing 718-759-4977 d2530magnet.com info@magnetschools.com Join us for an open house on Saturday, April 21, 11:30am–12:30pm, or Tuesday, May 22, 5:30-7:30pm. Accepting applications for first-fifth and seventheighth grades.

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

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

183-02 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-380-4145 hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org Open houses offered on Sundays from 10am12pm, and on Wednesdays from 7-9pm. Tours, registration, slideshow presentation, and Q-and-A sessions available. No appointment necessary.

112-01 75th Ave., Lower Level, Forest Hills 718-487-4309 hugmusicny.com contact@hugmusicny.com Hug Music will host open house registration on March 31 and April 21 and 28. Office hours Wednesday-Friday from 3-7pm and Saturday from 9am-5pm. Please contact us for more information.

The Joseph Pulitzer Magnet School of Innovation and Applied Learning, IS 145

33-34 80th St., Flushing 718-759-4977 d2530magnet.com info@magnetschools.com Tours available upon request. Now accepting applications for seventh-eighth grades.

The Kew-Forest School Summer at Kew-Forest

119-17 Union Turnpike, Forest Hills 718-268-4667 x108 kewforest.org/summer summer@kewforest.org Please join us on Saturday, April 14 from 10am-12pm to learn more about our camp and summer program for children entering pre-k to eighth grade.

Magic Day Camp

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

718-229-0033 Astoria at Gym-Azing! Bayside at Bay Terrace Karate Center, Upper Level Baybridge Commons Shopping Center Forest Hills at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills Forest Hills at the Church in the Gardens Glendale at Tiger Schulmann’s Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com Call or go online and 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!

Rose Academy of Ballet

70-11 Austin St., Forest Hills 718-520-0207 roseacademyofballet.com racademyofballet@gmail.com To learn about our camp, contact us to schedule a tour, or join us for our Book Fair and open house on Saturday, April 14 or Sunday, April 15 from 10am-3pm.

Samuel Field Y Day Camp

58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-225-6750 x261 sfysummercamps.org agavora@sfy.org; dschaefer@sfy.org Come to our open house for a day of games and rides on Sunday, April 29 from 12-3pm at the Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds located at Colonial Springs Road in Wheatley Heights.

ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

Join

NYMetroParents

Offering Classes in:

1/2 DAY NURSERY SCHOOL & FREE PRE K SESSIONS

Ballet Tap

Jazz/Contemporary

Join Hip Hop

Acrobatics NYMetroParents

Summer Get advanceDance notice on activities, Intensive participate in group discussions and receive special notices. ALL STAR STUDIOS

108-21 72nd Ave (4th floor) Forest Hills, NY 11375 www.facebook.com/nymetroparents For SUMMER 718-268-2280 allstarstudiosnyc@gmail.com 2018!!! allstarstudiosnyc.com

NOW

ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

Come Try Our NEW Improv Dance Class!

• • • • • • •

Get advance notice on activities,

AM/PM Classes participate group discussions Program encourages in socialization and diversity Multicultural curriculum and receive special notices. Small group hands on instruction Music & Movement Outdoor Play Area Indoorwww.facebook.com/nymetroparents Gym Program PM Music Program for PM Nursery Classes Included

Join

2018

group Summer Play n tio si an Tr and ograms SPECIAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS to Nursery Pr Call for ion advance Pre-K OPTIONAL HOUR notice ADDITIONAL on activities, informatGet

NYMetroParents

group discussions Contact us:participate 718-268-7980 |in Email: nurseryschool@thecitg.org citgnurseryschool.org | 50 Ascan Avenue, Forest Hills and receive special notices.

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

Join

Christ the King

Royals' Soccer Camp

NYMetroParents

For Boys & Girls Ages 7 - 16

DISCOVER • PROTECT • INSPIRE

Bronx Zoo

Summer just got WILD! Join us for an unforgettable experience that includes age-appropriate, hands-on STEM activities, up-close animal encounters, and exhibit explorations!

Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions 1-800-433-4149 or email and receiveCallspecial notices. Queens Zoo

edu@wcs.org for more info!

CK Kids' American

Dance & DRAMA CAMP For Girls & Boys Ages 3 - 14

Prospect Park Zoo

New York Aquarium

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

Week #1 July 16 - July 20 Week #2 July 23 - July 27 Week #3 August 20 - August 24

Central Park Zoo

Christ the King Royals'

July 2 - August 17 *No Camp July 4th

Basketball Camp

For Boys & Girls Ages 7 - 16

Boys Week #1 July 30 - August 3 Boys Week #2 August 6 - August 10 Boys Week #3 August 13 - August 17 Girls Week August 20 - August 24

Christ the King Royals'

Cheerleading Camp For Girls Ages 7 - 16

Join

NYMetroParents

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

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

August 20 - August 24

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

QueensParent 53

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. REGO PARK ORTHODONTICS: LARISSA DAVIDS, D.D.S 98-41 Queens Blvd., Suite 1A, Rego Park 718-275-2006 davidsorthodontics.com Rego Park Orthodontics welcomes children and adults of all ages for a free orthodontic exam and consultation. The office is equipped with the most recent digital technology to make the experience of orthodontic treatment as relaxed as possible. ZWEIHORN ORTHODONTICS: “ALL FOR A SMILE” Office hours include Sundays and evenings 150-25 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-969-9234 drzweihorn.com Dr. Zweihorn is a board-certified orthodontist specializing in the treatment of children, teens, and adults. Our team focuses on helping you achieve your best smile! DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com 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. LICE FAIRY LICEMOTHERS 2463 S. Long Beach Road, Oceanside 866-561-0492 1755 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park 866-561-0492 54

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

679 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head 866-561-0492 fairylicemothers.com fairylicemothers@gmail.com Our treatment centers are kid-friendly and our products are 100-percent non-toxic. Treatments include two free re-checks. Whether or not you use our service, we are here to help you. PHOTOGRAPHY GLYPH CREATIVE STUDIO, MARIANA MARTINIS 2525 Borden Ave. 718-838-4827 glyphny.com At Glyph Creative Studio we would love to capture your family’s exciting and precious moments of life in a fun, beautiful, and very spontaneous way. SPECIAL NEEDS 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 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 they will feel confident. LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com 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.

PartyCentral Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources. 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. POPARAZZI BALLOONS & EVENT SPACE 61-19 Fresh Pond Road, Middle Village 347-204-5252 poparazzievents.com Follow us on Instagram: @poparazziballoons poparazziballoons@yahoo.com Making magic happen with balloons! Turn your dream party into a reality with POParazzi! We custom design your ideas to create the ultimate experience. PARTY PLACES @ PLAY AMUSEMENTS 229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.co; 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, and bumper cars to a roller coaster, 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 sugar cookie baking, all about pizza, cupcakes from scratch, doughnuts, chocolate, and candy projects. Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties. CK KIDS BIRTHDAY PARTIES 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 917-602-6271 ctkny.org; jmichel@ctkny.org We know your child’s birthday is a special day, so we only book one party at time! Private party room available with two bounce houses, ball pit, disco lighting, cotton candy, face painting, tattoos, music, and games! CUNNINGHAM TENNIS 196-00 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-740-6800 cunninghamtennis.com Facebook: @cunninghamtennis Instagram: @cunninghamtennis info@cunninghamtennis.com Celebrate your birthday at Cunningham Tennis! Enjoy 1½ hours of tennis and a pizza party that guarantees to serve up tons of fun! FANTASY FOREST AMUSEMENT PARK 718-788-2676 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 Give your child the best birthday with our VIP Birthday Party Package at Queens’ No. 1 destination for family fun! Book our custom birthday package and personalize it with our exclusive food and entertainment add-ons. FOREST PARK CAROUSEL AMUSEMENT VILLAGE Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive, Woodhaven 718-788-2676 forestparkcarousel.com; info@nycarousel.com Give your child the best birthday with our VIP Birthday Party Package at “The Crown Jewel of Queens!” Book our custom birthday package and personalize it with our exclusive food and entertainment add-ons. THE LANYARD LADIES 433 Merrick Road, Oceanside 516-578-2248 thelanyardladies.com; info@thelanyardladies.com The Lanyard Ladies friendship bracelet and lanyard birthday parties bring the party to you, or you can come to their brand-new party place! Many amazing themes and packages to choose from. 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 The Reform Temple of Forest Hills in Forest Hills The Church in the Gardens in Forest Hills Tiger Schulmann’s MMA in Glendale 718-229-0033 musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com We provide unique birthday party musical experiences for first through sixth birthdays. Call us to customize your child’s musical birthday. We can also come to your space. POPARAZZI BALLOONS & EVENT SPACE 61-19 Fresh Pond Road, Middle Village 347-204-5252 poparazzievents.com Follow us on Instagram: @poparazziballoons poparazziballoons@yahoo.com Our enchanting, multi-level venue hosts all types of celebrations. Call us or stop by an open house and start planning your next event. SOCCER FRIENDS USA INC. 106-06 Queens Blvd., 3rd Floor Gym, Forest Hills 718-261-2403; 718-261-2400; 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. SUPERKICKERS P.S. 69, Jackson Heights 718-350-1535 superkickers.com; info@superkickers.com Superkickers Party consists of soccer games, bouncy house, two staff members, setup and cleanup, basic color paper goods, pizzas, and juice for each child. Party is for 20 kids, plus the birthday child. USTA BILLIE JEAN KING NATIONAL TENNIS CENTER Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Flushing 718-760-6200 x0 ntc.usta.com Birthday party packages include 1 hour of court time with drills and games organized by our USTA Pro staff and 1 hour in a private room for pizza. WHAT’S COOKING? 30 E. Main St., Oyster Bay 516-922-COOK (2665) whatscookingny.com; info@whatscookingny.com Martha Stewart, Newsday, and News 12 boast What’s Cooking? is a No. 1 Choice Birthday Party Place where children can explore their creativity in culinary arts. Funtastic cookie, cupcake, Cupcake Wars, chocolate, or pizza party can be customized in our spacious party room making your party memorable! QueensParent 55

ery Sch

Your child will be governed only by his or her limitless imagination. • Our focus is on the total child, academically and socially.

ITHWAI RA

• Reading Readiness, Comprehension, and Phonics are a major component of our program. • Staffed by two Certified Early Childhood Teachers with 28 years experience. • Student to Teacher Ratio 3:1

Safe & Nurturing Environment Story Telling & Creative Writing Music & Art Expression Literature Rich Setting Discovering Math & Science Spacious Outdoor Play Area

Mornings: Monday - Friday 9:00 - 12:00 Flexible Schedule Choose Your Days! Lynne Braithwaite, Director

Whitestone, New York Call for a Visit: 718-767-2776

braithwaitenurseryschool.com

LOOKING FOR

GREAT DEALS? Saving money on a New York City family day is easy!

Meet the

Health Care

Professional

Rego Park Orthodontics Larissa Davids, D.D.S 98-41 Queens Blvd., Suite 1A, Rego Park 718-275-2006 davidsorthodontics.com

Rego Park Orthodontics welcomes children and adults of all ages for a free orthodontic exam and consultation. The office is equipped with the most recent digital technology to make the experience of orthodontic treatment as relaxed as possible for our patients. Patients can choose from different types of braces for treatment: metal braces that come with colors of their choice, ceramic braces without colors, or simply be treated with free clear aligners like Invisalign.

Zweihorn Orthodontics Office hours include Sundays LOOKING FOR and evenings 150-25 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-969-9234 drzweihorn.com

GREAT

Saving money on a New York City family day is easy!

Dr. Zweihorn is a board-certified orthodontist specializing in the treatment of children, teens, and adults. His focus is on helping you get your best smile, paying close attention to your concerns and the specific requirements that are most important to you. Dr. Zweihorn brings to you the experience of more than 10 years of private practice, andCityguideny.com offers a wide variety has of orthodontic options using state-of-the-art technology. At and Zweihorn coupons discounts for Orthodontics, we have the most kind and helpful team in town. Come and NYC sightseeing attractions, see for yourself! restaurants, stores and more.

DEALS?

Great New York deals, savings, special offers and Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy deepYaphank, discounts—for you and Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East family—are yours with Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, your Jericho, just a click of the mouse. Wantagh, and Lake Success

Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more. Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse. 56

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

lispeechandmyo.com Queens: 718-640-6767 • Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Saving money on a LOOKING FOR Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, is owner and operator of Long New York City family day is easy! 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, FEES—and Cityguideny.com hasand coupons Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing—are also sightseeing offered. Thereattractions, is discounts for NYC a total of seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most restaurants, stores and more. major health insurance companies and offering evening and Saturday hours. Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

GREAT

DEALS?

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE

Want to know the best

activities for families?

To advertise: 212-315-0800 or nympads@davlermedia.com

TUTORS

TUTORING MATH 1+2=3

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

N.Y.S. Certified teacher who is patient and caring now tutoring math (all levels/all exams)

Subscribe to our family activity

email newsletter

I can help you pass any exam!

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER

Call Anita at 917-754-6678 A2+B2=C2

Complies with Common Core Standards

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

Now Registering for CITYWIDE/STATEWIDE ELA, MATH and SCIENCE TESTS.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • LOOK FOR YELLOW SIGN 87-02 GRAND AVENUE, ELMHURST, NY Phone : 718-205-7508 92-22 CORONA AVENUE, ELMHURST, NY Phone: 718-606-1056

raising kids ad index

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

All Star Studio........................................53 Robert Mann Dance Centre ....................7

birthday / party services

American Dance & Drama.....................10 BounceU - College Point.......................41 Christ the King Continuing Education....53 Cunningham Tennis.................................3 Mommy Music & Me Inc........................41 Poparazzi Balloons and Event Space...41 Soccer Friends, USA Inc.......................41 Superkicker Sports Corporation............41 USTA BJK National Tennis Center........27 Wildlife Conservation Society ...............53 YM-YWHA - Samuel Field ....................39

camps

All Star Studio........................................53 American Dance & Drama.....................10 Blue Dolphin Summer Day Camp..........49 Camp Clio..............................................47 Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning..................................14 Christ the King Continuing Education....53 Cunningham Tennis.................................3 Girl’s & Boy’s Basketball and Beyond...13 Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp........45 Hug Music..............................................21 iCoding Club..........................................27 JEI Learning Systems Inc. - Queens.....60 Kon Gen International Preschool...........28 Magic Day Camp.....................................5 Mill Basin Day Camp....................... 11, 48 Mommy Music & Me Inc........................41 Noah’s Ark Preparatory ........................17 Oasis Children Services........................25 Robert Mann Dance Centre ....................7 Soccer Friends, USA Inc.......................41 Superkicker Sports Corporation............41

The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School......................................53 Tiny Footsteps.......................................23 USTA BJK National Tennis Center........27 Wildlife Conservation Society ...............53 World of Discovery Camp......................49 YMCA of Greater New York...................47 YM-YWHA - Samuel Field ....................39 Young People’s Day Camp - Queens......9

child care / day care

Braithwaite Nursery School ..................56 Kon Gen International Preschool...........28 Mommybites..........................................59 Noah’s Ark Preparatory ........................17 The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School......................................53 Tiny Footsteps.......................................23

classes

Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning..................................14 iCoding Club..........................................27 LIU Center for Gifted Youth...................48 Steps to Socialization............................21

dance

All Star Studio........................................53 American Dance & Drama.....................10 Christ the King Continuing Education....53 Robert Mann Dance Centre ....................7 School of American Ballet...................... 11

developmental

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......................................20, 56 School of American Ballet...................... 11 Steps to Socialization............................21 YMCA of Greater New York...................47 Young People’s Day Camp - Queens......9

education

Braithwaite Nursery School ..................56 Christ the King Continuing Education....53 Huntington Learning Center..................21 iCoding Club..........................................27 JEI Learning Systems Inc. - Queens.....60 Kon Gen International Preschool...........28 LIU Center for Gifted Youth...................48 Noah’s Ark Preparatory ........................17 NYC Dept of Ed - D25.30......................13 NYC Dept of Ed - Q092 Magnet School...28 The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School......................................53 Tiny Footsteps.......................................23

family entertainment / events / outings

The Bay Terrace at Bayside....................2 Wildlife Conservation Society ...............53

fitness

Blue Dolphin Summer Day Camp..........49 Girl’s & Boy’s Basketball and Beyond...13 Magic Day Camp.....................................5 Mill Basin Day Camp....................... 11, 48 School of American Ballet...................... 11 USTA BJK National Tennis Center........27 World of Discovery Camp......................49

health

Girl’s & Boy’s Basketball and Beyond...13 Rego Park Orthodontics..................19, 56 Steps to Socialization............................21 Zweihorn Orthodontics....................14, 56

music

Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp........45 Hug Music..............................................21 Mommy Music & Me Inc........................41

restaurant / food services

The Bay Terrace at Bayside....................2

retail

The Bay Terrace at Bayside....................2

special events

Poparazzi Balloons and Event Space...41

special needs

Hug Music..............................................21 Huntington Learning Center..................21 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......................................20, 56

sports

Blue Dolphin Summer Day Camp..........49 Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning..................................14 Christ the King Continuing Education....53 Cunningham Tennis.................................3 Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp........45 Magic Day Camp.....................................5 Mill Basin Day Camp....................... 11, 48 NYC Dept of Ed - D25.30......................13 NYC Dept of Ed - Q092 Magnet School...28 Soccer Friends, USA Inc.......................41 Superkicker Sports Corporation............41 World of Discovery Camp......................49 YMCA of Greater New York...................47 YM-YWHA - Samuel Field ....................39 Young People’s Day Camp - Queens......9

tutors

Huntington Learning Center..................21 JEI Learning Systems Inc. - Queens.....60

QueensParent 57

raising kids quotables

What are some ways you’ve taught your kids kindness? “Leading by example is always the best way to teach kids anything. My husband and I do little things, like say, ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ but we also show kindness and empathy to our children and to each other, which our kids see and emulate.” –Carol Bermudez, New City

“When my daughter was 4 and in an especially not-so-nice mood my partner and I explained The Golden Rule, which is essentially, ‘treat people how you want them to treat you.’ Now when she says something mean or refuses to share a toy with her brother, we just say, ‘Stay gold, Roxie,’ and usually that does the trick.” –Aisha R., Clinton Hill, Brooklyn

“It’s so hard for kids to think beyond themselves, especially when they are so young, but it is also so important. We teach our son kindness in the larger sense. We encourage him not only to be kind to his friends, but to himself, to the earth, to animals. Giving him a broad perspective early on will teach him to be a conscious citizen in this big world...we hope.” –Jeffrey Klimpton, Manhattan

in an instagram “I love this little guy so much! He’s going to be new to this big brother business but I know he’s going to have the baby laughing all the time with all of his jokes.”

“My kids’ school teaches a ‘Kind and Gentle’ philosophy that they carry over into all activities. The other day, I got what seemed to be my 100th call from a telemarketer and after some pretty foul language on my part, my daughter reminded my that I was not being K and G (kind and gentle). She’s the one who’s teaching me!” –Paula Terrozzo, Long Island City

(Posted by @rattlesandheels aka Queens mom Adanna Dill)

Go For It!

Whatever ‘it’ is that you feel like you might be the only mom doing or not doing or feeling or not feeling, you’ve probably got company somewhere. Find another mom at library lap time or in the church nursery or at the pediatrician’s and lay ‘it’ on the line—wait for the blessing of hearing that mom say ‘me, too.’ –Elizabeth Spencer in a post entitled “New Mama, You Don’t Have to ‘Cherish Every Moment’,” on motherly.ly

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

“It’s always great to see your children trying new things, watching their adventurous side coming to light. It’s especially gratifying when I see my son—who’s been diagnosed with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder—take a leap even when he is scared. I have done plenty of things while afraid and after I complete them I feel so freakin’ good. That’s exactly what he’s been doing lately, only it is much harder for him than for me, or for most of us. He’s been trying new things and just going for it, even when he’s scared. –Eileen Carter-Campos in an article entitled “Helping a Child With Autism Try New Things;” read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/new-things-autism.

More NYMetroParents.com Highlights: FUN IN SPRING: Download a free guide to the top Spring activities in the NY 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).

Hey! Moms and Dads Look what we have for you

CLASSES NANNIES & BABYSITTERS

JOBS

FOR MOMS

EVENTS

FOR YOUNG FAMILIES

Check out our 45 minute online education classes, presented by leading experts.

Bonus: Check out library of hundreds of expert written articles

Looking for one? We have tens of referred Nannies and Babysitters

Bonus: Do you want to help your Nanny find her next family? This is the best resource in NYC.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face it, Moms make great part time employees. Check out the jobs for companies looking specifically to hire a mom.

Bonus: If you are looking for an opportunity, you can post on mommybites.

Check our activities targeted just for you and your families.

Bonus: Local organizations can post their events on mommybites.com/newyork

Get on the list for newest offerings

mommybites.com/newyork Connecting moms and moms-to-be with parenting resources, education, and support since 2006

En󰈸󰈸󰈸󰈸󰈸󰈸 N SUMMER ow! 2018

ADVANCE WITH

THIS SUMMER

JEI's Customized Learning Programs are tailored to each child's individual needs to help prevent summer learning loss and excel in the new school year.

MATH ENGLISH READING & WRITING PROBLEM ATH SOLVING M ARI BRAIN SAF ANDARD

STATE ST

ALIGNED

Auburndale 200-13 32nd Ave 347.408.4098 Floral Park 256-10 Union Tpke 718.347.3138 Forest Hills 112-28 Queens Blvd 718.268.2890 Fresh Meadows 192-11 Union Tpke 718.740.7888 Great Neck 485 Great Neck Rd 516.482.2234 Rego Park 98-00 62nd Dr 718.441.3762 Whitestone 17-10 Utopia Pkwy 718.819.8813 Summer programs may vary by center. Please contact your local JEI Learning Center for details.