Rockland Parent December 2018

Rockland Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM DECEMBER 2018

Happy Holidays!

• Sticking

to Your Gift-Giving Budget • Elf on the Shelf: Yay or Nay? • Kid-Safe Decorating

World-Aware Teens Raise kids who’ll change the world

Family Travel Destinations The best all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

RocklandParent

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Breakfast with Santa December 1

Tickets for Sale by Levity Live Comedy Club

Santa's Toy Shoppe December 3 • 17 RSVP Only

Painting with Santa December 10 RSVP Only

FOR MORE INFORMATION & HOLIDAY HOURS, VISIT WWW.PALISADESCENTER.COM RocklandParent

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contents table of

Original photo by ›› Big Apple Portraits (bigappleportraits.com) Clothing provided

by Land’s End (landsend.com)

december 2018

family travel

16

How to Save Money on Holiday Shopping

33

Holiday Joys

38

14 Become a Resort Family

These tips will help you stick to your budget while snagging real bargains.winter chill

Find something to help your family beat that winter chill

How to Raise a World-Aware Teen

Your child’s now old enough to grasp global issues—and to change the planet for the better, too.

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 My Family Saved Someone’s Life 12 Keeping Your Family Healthy 36 The Pros and Cons of Elf on the Shelf 38 How to Raise a World-Aware Teen 40 Meet the Doctor 42 Party Central 43 Academic Enrichment and Educational Services 44 Party Planner 45 Advertisers’ Index 46 Parenting Humor

10 Glitter Gifts

16 How to Save Money on Holiday Shopping

20 Family Fun in Manhattan

34 13 Ways to Stay Safe This Holiday Season

21 Family Activities Calendar 33 Holiday Joys

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 16 Sticking to Your Gift-Giving Budget 34 Kid-Safe Decorating 36 Elf on the Shelf: Yay or Nay? 38 World-Aware Teens facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

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RocklandParent

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raising kids editor’s note

DECEMBER 2018 • Vol.12 • No.4

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling ASSISTANT EDITORS: Anja Webb, Melissa Wickes DIRECTOR OF CONTENT: Deborah Skolnik

Season’s Readings!

I

absolutely adore this time of year, don’t you? The days may be short, but they’re jampacked full of joyful doings. Whether you’re shopping for presents for loved ones, admiring the twinkling holiday lights, or cooking up special treats, there’s a cozy feel to it all. And the only thing more delightful than savoring the season’s many pleasures is experiencing them from your child’s wide-eyed perspective.

Of course, in all the excitement we want to make sure you and your kids steer clear of hazards—that’s why we urge you to read Lambeth Hochwald’s feature “13 Ways to Stay Safe This Holiday Season” on p. 34. Don’t light a candle, buy a festive new plant, or set out special décor before reading what the experts have to say. Speaking of experts, we also have the pros’ best tips for getting discounts on all those gifts you’re buying. Turn to p. 16 for “How to Save Money on Holiday Shopping” by Denise Porretto, which offers brilliant strategies for bargain-hunting, both online and at brick-and-mortar stores.

You’ll wonder how you ever did without these easy ways to earn cash back on purchases, snag hot products at low prices, and more.

Meanwhile, what would Christmas be without a few traditions? This issue, we take a closer look at a somewhat controversial one: Elf on the Shelf. He’s meant to watch over your young kids and report back to Santa about whether they belong on the ‘nice’ or ‘naughty’ list, but does that make him sweet, or a spy? In Anja Webb’s “The Pros and Cons of Elf on the Shelf” on p. 36, real parents, plus others who grew up with the steely-eyed sprite, offer advice on how to deploy your elf so he’s fun for little ones. Yet the holiday season isn’t only for small children, which is why those of you with older kids will appreciate Allison Ingrum’s story, “Raise a World-Aware Teen” on p. 38. These days more than ever, it’s important for our youth to know what’s happening around the globe—and help change our planet for the better.

After the holidays wrap—or even before—you may just have had your fill of blustery weather and busy days. Who could blame you if you just want to get away from it all for a while? Not us! That’s what makes our travel story “Become a Resort Family” on p. 14 so timely. We’ve rounded up our picks of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts and destinations, blessed spots where all you have to do is relax. Even if you can’t book a getaway this minute, it’s a great read for fantasizing.

On that subject, here’s wishing you and yours the holiday of your dreams!

Deborah Skolnik Director of Content

REGIONAL EDITORS: Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Westchester); Shara Levine (Rockland); Karen Lo (Brooklyn, Manhattan); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Megan Vasquez

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

MARKETING

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Tell Us How You Give Back!

In this season of showing gratitude and giving, we want hear how you help those who are less fortunate. Does your family volunteer on a regular basis? Do your kids raise money for a charity? Does your business give back to the community? Share your story of giving back with us, and we’ll share it with our readers on NYMetroParents. com. We’ll help you to raise the visibility of your cause and let others know how they can get involved.

Sharing your story couldn’t be easier: Simply fill out the form at nymetroparents.com/submitnews. We look forward to hearing from you!

MARKETING DIRECTOR: Ryan Christopher ASSISTANT MARKETING MANGER: Kristine Pulaski

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Courtesy Jenn Colucci

raising kids voices

My Family Saved Someone’s Life ›› The close call that was the ultimate teachable moment for my kids.

By Jenn Colucci, as told to Deborah Skolnik

H

ave you ever had an ordinary day suddenly turn extraordinary? That’s what happened to us in late July.

My husband Vinnie had come home early from work, and we’d gone to an afternoon movie at the Galleria Mall in Poughkeepsie with our four kids. As we left the theater around 4:30pm, I noticed a black BMW near our car in the parking lot.

We got in our car and I pulled out of our parking spot. That’s when I saw the BMW’s driver: He was lying on his back across the center console, and his feet were sticking out the driver’s-side door. The car was running and the radio was blasting.

“Something is wrong with this guy,” I said. Vinnie thought the man was just sleeping, but I urged him to check. Vinnie got out of the car and tapped the guy’s foot, saying “Hey buddy, hey bro.”

There was no response.

My husband looked at me. “Call nine-one-one,” he said.

The emergency operator told us to pull the man out of the car and lay him on the ground. Vinnie got a couple of passersby to help him while I stayed on the phone with the operator. I pulled our car up so my kids couldn’t see what was happening, but I looked on. The driver—he was a young man—was taking breaths every 30 seconds, if that. He was pale, white, and sweaty, and his lips were blue-purple.

The police showed up first. Immediately, they concluded the man was suffering from a drug overdose. They administered Narcan—a substance designed to counteract opioid overdose— through his nose, which did nothing. Paramedics arrived shortly thereafter and administered more Narcan through an IV. Immediately, miraculously, it brought the guy back to life. I heard him say he’d used two bags of heroin.

He bounced back so much he wanted to go home, but of course

Jenn and Vinnie Colucci with their children

the paramedics insisted he go to the hospital for observation.

As I sat there watching it all unfold, stunned, one of the police officers came up to me. “This man was dead,” he told me. “You literally just saved his life by calling nine-one-one.” The young man, now sitting up on a stretcher, looked at the police officer and said, “Thanks.”

“Don’t thank me,” the officer replied. “You can thank these two over here. They’re the ones that called.”

On the way home, my 8-year-old daughter asked me, “Mom, did that man have a heart attack?” I looked at my husband and said, “I’m just going to tell them.”

“That man was dying because he did very bad drugs,” I explained. We talked about how dangerous illegal drugs are, and why you should never use them. My husband and I turned it into a teaching moment—not only about drugs, but also about how if you see someone in trouble, you should call for help and not just walk by, as I’m sure a lot of people might have done.

The movie we’d seen was The Incredibles 2, and my son said, “Mommy, you and Daddy are just like Mr. and Mrs. Incredible!”

It’s true I did feel inspired by what we’d done—but I was also sad for what we’d seen.

I’m sure this experience will stay with my three older kids, who are 12, 8, and 6, for the rest of their lives. My 4-year-old probably won’t remember, but I’m hoping she’ll learn from her older siblings. I’m also hoping people start realizing how big the opioid addiction crisis is.

Most of all, I’m hoping the young man we saved stays safe.

What happens if he needs saving again—will anyone be there to rescue him the next time? Because the mother in me knows: He’s someone’s child.

Jenn Colucci is a mother of four and the content coordinator for the upcoming Living Lagrange magazine, as well as the receiver of taxes for the Town of Beekman.

8

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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diy corner Colleen Cunningham

things to do

Glitter Gifts!

Add a little sparkle to your holiday season with these crafty gift ideas, perfect for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or just because! Create a cozy mug with some added flair to enjoy a nice cup of hot cocoa, an abstract art canvas to unleash your inner Picasso, or a shining ornament to make your tree stand out. No matter what your occasion for gift giving, make it extra special with something handmade… and glittery! These crafts, excerpted from “Glitter!” by Adams Media, are sure to make your holiday season one to remember!

Abstract Art Canvas

What you’ll need:

Mod Podge

Plain art canvas

Paintbrush

Masking tape

Glitter

Next: 1. Tape off canvas to create the pattern you want to make.

2. Paint over canvas with Mod Podge.

3. Pour on your glitter.

4. Let dry, then tap the canvas over a piece of paper to shed any excess glitter.

5. Carefully peel off tape.

Glittery Mug

Make a (dishwasher safe) glitter-dipped mug with easy-to-find items!

You’ll need:

Dishwasher safe Mod Podge

Masking tape

Paintbrush

Glass or porcelain mug

Glitter

Now… 1. Tape off your mug and use paintbrush to apply Mod Podge below the tapeline.

2. Now go glitter-crazy!

3. Peel off tape and let dry for 4-8 hours.

4. Use paintbrush to dab a coat of Mod Podge over the glitter. Let sit for 28 days before washing. Beware: Friends will be tempted to “borrow” it.

Excerpted from Glitter! by Adams Media. Copyright © 2018 Adams Media, a division of Simon and Schuster. Used by permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. Interior design by Colleen Cunningham.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Ornament Give the gift of glitter this season with glitter ornaments!

All you need is: Glass bulb ornaments

Piece of paper

Floor finish

Fine glitter

Now...

1. Remove metal ornament caps and pour a tablespoon of floor finish into each bulb.

2. Use paper to funnel glitter into bulbs, then swirl the bulbs around to coat the inside of the ornament with the glitter mixture.

3. Pour out excess mixture and let bulbs dry for 10 minutes before replacing metal caps. Tie off each ornament with a sparkly bow and share the shimmer with friends and family this year.

Colleen Cunningham

Whether you’re a modern Picasso or more of a “stick-figure specialist,” there’s a way to unleash your inner glitter artist: easy abstract canvas art!

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RocklandParent 11

raising kids in the know

5 Ways to Keep Your Family Healthy During Flu Season ››

By Melissa Wickes

C

old and flu season: Every parent dreads it. It can feel crippling knowing there is likely a sneeze coming in your child’s direction or a kid with a fever drooling on your day care’s set of Legos. Remember: Kids are still building their immune systems, so it’s normal for them to get sick frequently. “I have parents tell me that they can remember more days when their kid had a runny nose than days when they didn’t,” says Aimée Kahn, M.D., M.P.H., pediatrician at Crystal Run Healthcare in Nyack.

This year, get ahead of the cold and flu game by instilling these simple practices in your children and taking precautions, as suggested by Dr. Kahn.

weather, but you’re not getting the flu from the flu shot. In fact, it is nothing compared to the actual flu,” Dr. Kahn says.

Maintain a healthy diet. Of course, your child should also be getting all the vitamins she needs—something that will happen as long as she’s eating a healthy, nutritious diet (though you can’t go wrong with a multivitamin!). Also check that your county’s water supply has fluoride in it. If not, you may want to make sure your child is getting the right amount of fluoride, Dr. Kahn suggests.

Wash your hands. It’s one of the most important things you, your child, or anyone can do to prevent spreading infection. Teach your children to wash before eating, after playtime, after playgroup, and after using the bathroom, Dr. Kahn suggests. Properly washing your hands means wetting, cleaning with soap for 10-15 seconds, and rinsing completely. Also emphasize sneezing and coughing into a sleeve or tissue and then throwing that tissue away.

Don’t let your child share things that go in his mouth. After spending the last few years teaching your child the importance of sharing, flu season is the time to throw those lessons out the window. Well, at least for utensils, pacifiers, cups, and other items that go in your child’s mouth, Dr. Kahn stresses. Even if a child in playgroup is not showing symptoms of a cold or flu, there is often an incubation period when she is contagious anyway, so it is best not to share these things ever. If your child drops his pacifier, don’t be so quick to give it a swift wipe and pop it back in his mouth.

Get your vaccinations. Especially this flu season, getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your children from the flu. A record number of 183 pediatric deaths were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during the 2017-2018 season. Approximately 80 percent of the deaths occurred in children who did not receive a flu vaccination, according to the CDC. Many parents are concerned their child can contract the flu from the vaccine itself. “The injection is not a live vaccine, so if you are feeling under the weather after receiving the vaccine, it is simply your body’s autoimmune response. It may make you feel under the

Know when to take your child to the doctor. Although kids do get sick frequently, it’s important to know the signs that it is time to get your child evaluated by a pediatrician. If he has a high fever that won’t come down with Tylenol or Motrin, you should see the doctor. Once your child is fever-free, wait 24 hours before letting her go back to school. Think about it: Would you want someone else sending their sick kid into school to cough all over your child? Perhaps most importantly, if your child shows any signs of difficulty breathing, including fast breathing, nasal flaring, and using extra muscles to breathe, you should take her to the doctor immediately, Dr. Kahn says.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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Courtesy Club Med

esorts xury R on Lu lt a y o esy R Court

Guests at Club Med in Punta Cana and Opio en Provence in France can learn Cirque de Soleil skills at CREACTIVE. Inset: Float down the Lazy River at Royalton Bavaro in the Dominican Republic.

Become a Resort Family

››

Traveling with the kids can get expensive, so we found the best all-inclusive resorts that are sure to keep everyone happy. By Katelin Walling

B

efore kids, traveling with your partner was relatively easy.

Sure, you had to figure out the logistics of getting from point A to destination B, along with where to stay, what to do, and places to eat, but that wasn’t too much of a hassle. Ever since kids entered the picture, though, planning a destination vacation has become a balancing act, one that includes making sure there are plenty of activities the little ones will love, that the restaurants you dine at have food your picky eaters will like, and that the hotel room has enough sleeping space for your brood.

Does the thought of coordinating everything make you want to hire a vacation planner?

Fear not! For a family vacation everyone will love, consider booking a stay at an all-inclusive resort. While some locations are for adults only, many others are turning their focus to families, offering unlimited activities, kids’ clubs, and dining options that even hardto-please children will love. This list doesn’t include every single all-inclusive resort brand out there; the five chosen here offer unique experiences for families, clubs for kids and teens, and other amenities to ensure everyone in the family has an unforgettable vacation.

Beaches

A sister brand to Sandals, the first Beaches resort opened in 1997 in response to requests from couples who loved Sandals Resorts and wanted a similar experience with their families.

Destinations: Beaches has three family-friendly resorts: two are located in Jamaica and one is in Turks & Caicos.

Highlights: Each location features a Pirates Island waterpark (Turks & Caicos recently expanded its waterpark offerings) with waterslides, spray areas, waterfalls, zero-entry pools, and more. Plus, Turks & Caicos is the only Beaches resort to offer SurfStream®, a surf simulator. Beaches has an exclusive partnership with Sesame 14

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Street, so you’ll frequently spot your favorite characters roaming the grounds for kids to meet, interact with in special themed activities, and see in stage shows and character parades. Tweens and teens can take advantage of the arcade Trench Town and the Xbox Play Lounge. These resorts also offer teens-only dance time at Club Liquid before it transitions to the 21 and older night club. And for teens who want a more meaningful vacation, Beaches offer Island Impact volunteer opportunities in July and August.

Kids Clubs: All Beaches resorts have Kids Camp for younger guests, ages newborn to 12, and programs that are just for tweens and teens. And your children will be in good hands: Kids Camp staff and private child care providers are members of the International Nanny Association. In addition, Beaches’ Kids Camps are Certified Autism Centers through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, so staff members are able to cater to children who are on the spectrum.

To book: beaches.com

Club Med

With more than 70 locations worldwide in a variety of destinations, you’ll find a resort in the spot of your dreams, whether you prefer tropical weather for beach lounging or snowier climates for all-day skiing.

Destinations: In addition to its Sandpiper Bay resort in Florida, Club Med has locations in Mexico; the Caribbean; the Alps in France, Italy, and Switzerland; throughout Europe and the Mediterranean, including Greece, Portugal, and Turkey; across Asia, including Thailand, Maldives, China, Indonesia, Japan, and Malaysia; Brazil; and Africa, including Morocco, Tunisia, and Senegal.

Highlights: Kids younger than 4 always stay free, though services for this age range sometimes cost extra. Some locations have a trapeze for high-flying fun, and Punta Cana in the Dominican

Republic and Opio en Provence in France are home to CREACTIVE, a Cirque du Soleil-inspired playscape at which guests can learn acrobatic and artistic skills (including trapeze, high bungee, and trampoline). Cancun Yucatan recently underwent renovations and now offers an expanded Aguamarina, a family area featuring two-bedroom accommodations with a dedicated pool area and stretch of beach only for families staying in this part of the resort.

Kids Clubs: Of the many locations worldwide, only a select few are adult-only resorts. Kids’ clubs are available at most locations for ages 4 months to 17 years, including Baby Club Med (ages 4-23 months), Petit Club Med (ages 2-3), Mini Club Med (ages 4-10), Juniors’ Club Med (ages 11-17), and Club Med Passworld (ages 11-17). In addition, Club Med offers Pyjama Club from 7-11pm and babysitting services (both an additional fee) for date nights or those times you wish to have an adults-only excursion.

To book: clubmed.us

Dreams Resorts & Spas

If staying at an environmentally conscious resort is more your speed, Dreams Resorts & Spas has eight locations that are Rainforest Alliance-certified (they follow the alliance’s eight principles of sustainability).

Destinations: Dreams has 15 destinations for families throughout Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Panama, and Puerto Rico.

Highlights: There’s so much to do at Dreams, the kids will never complain of boredom. Though activities vary at each location, indoor and outdoor offerings include pingpong, volleyball, soccer, archery, painting, ocean trampoline, a scalable iceberg, Pilates and yoga, pool tables, croquet, a giant chess board, tennis, dance lessons, movies, and Euro-Bungee. In addition, water sport activities include water polo, kayaking, snorkeling, catamarans, sailing, and windsurfing. Once a week kids can have a camping adventure on the beach, hosted by the Explorer’s Club at all locations, while parents can enjoy a date night.

Kids Clubs: Dreams resorts offer Explorer’s Club for ages 3-12 and various activities just for teens. Properties in the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa offer Core Zone Teens Club for ages 13-17. Private babysitting services are available at participating locations for an additional fee.

To book: dreamsresorts.com

Royalton Luxury Resorts

Royalton resorts feature All-In Luxury®, where every aspect of your vacation has been carefully designed to meet your needs. And with the optional Diamond Club™ upgrade available at all locations, you can have access to an exclusive beach and pool, along with other amenities, for an unforgettable stay.

Destinations: Royalton has seven family-friendly locations in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Dominican Republic, and Mexico. Plus, Royalton Antigua is slated to open in early 2019.

Highlights: Each property features a splash pad for kids, on-site entertainment, and an All-In White Party once a week featuring music, dancing, entertainment, and light shows. For extra water fun, select locations have additional waterpark attractions. Riviera Cancun features Splash Safari, with water slides for all ages, water spray features, and a Crocodile Walk Way challenge in the wading pool; White Sands features a pirate-themed splash park with water sprays and slides of varying heights; and Bavaro is the only property with a Flowrider surf machine. Meanwhile, as a sister resort to Grand Memories, Royalton Punta Cana guests and Diamond Club™ members at Bavaro have access to Grand Memories Splash’s waterpark. In addition, all locations have high-speed Wi-Fi, which makes checking in with each other easy (and prevents teens from going into social media withdrawal).

Kids Clubs: All Royalton locations offer Clubhouse Kids Club for ages 4-12 and Hangout Teens Club for ages 13-17. The kids’ club allows young resort guests to have fun with their peers while interacting with the beloved brother-sister bunny duo, Max & Ruby. Meanwhile, the club for teen vacationers features PlayStation gaming consoles, pingpong tables, and scheduled activities across the resort.

To book: royaltonresorts.com

Grand Memories and Memories

As their names imply, Grand Memories and Memories resorts aim to help families create lasting memories with natural surroundings, white-sand beaches, and a host of activities for kids.

Destinations: Memories and Grand Memories have eight family-friendly resorts located in Cuba and the Dominican Republic.

Highlights: Memories Splash Punta Cana closed in August for renovations to become Grand Memories Splash and Grand Memories Punta Cana, both slated to open mid-November. Splash features family-friendly accommodations, including rooms with bunk beds, plus one of the largest on-site waterparks in the Caribbean, with seven slides, a wave pool, splash pads, and spray features. As a neighboring property, Grand Memories Punta Cana has access to Splash’s waterpark.

Kids Clubs: Each of the Memories and Grand Memories properties offers a kids’ club for ages 4-12, where kids can socialize, play on the playground, and enjoy games. Plus, all kids’ clubs feature Toopy & Binoo, a cat-and-mouse duo that make interactive appearances and host activities and games, as well as a live show. Grand Memories Splash and Punta Cana, as well as Memories Parasio and Flamenco, are the only locations with a Teens’ Lounge for ages 13-17. In addition, Memories Parisio, Varadero, and Flamenco offer Baby Club for ages newborn to 3.

To book: memoriesresorts.com RocklandParent 15

family life finances

How to Save Money on Holiday Shopping

››

You don’t have to go into debt to buy great gifts for everyone on your list! These tips will help you stick to your budget while snagging real bargains. By Denise Porretto

I

t’s that time of year again, when gifts and toys are delivered free of charge to your living room, pre-wrapped and labeled, making every family member’s dreams come true. All you need to do is leave out a few cookies.

If only it were so.

In reality, holiday prep plays out more like this: You overpay for the popular toys your kids want. Giftwrap is surprisingly expensive— newspaper, anyone? In exasperation, you eat all the cookies.

Holiday shopping is difficult, but don’t lose hope. There are plenty of ways to save money. We’ve spoken to some experts who know just how you can control your seasonal spending; read on for their smart advice.

Pre-Shopping Strategies

Before you set foot in a brick-and-mortar store or click the “purchase” button, do the following: Create a list and a budget. “As you write down the names of everyone that you have to buy for, put a dollar amount next to 16

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

each name and stick to it!” says Rachel Cruze, New York Times best-selling co-author, with her dad Dave Ramsey, of Smart Money Smart Kids. Download a free budgeting app such as EveryDollar, which has interactive visuals and goal-planning features. Another handy app, one for your phone, is Santa’s Bag. It includes holiday-specific features such as the ability to import receipts, plan budgets, create shopping lists, locate gifts, and track shopping progress.

Locate any unused gift cards you have. You can spend them to buy holiday gifts, food, and décor, or sell them at a gift card exchange site such as Cardpool.com or Raise.com for some ready cash. (If you’re looking for gift cards, you can also purchase them on these sites at a percentage off face value.)

Sign up for cash-back sites that give you a rebate—typically 2-5 percent—on just about anything you buy online. Popular sites include Ebates.com, Shopathome.com, Mrrebates.com, continued on page 18 ››

YOU SHOP. KIDS PLAY. Gifts, Food, Music, and Fun.

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RocklandParent 17

‹‹ continued from age 16

and TopCashback.com. They work very simply: You go to the cash-back site and locate the store you want to shop. Then you purchase your desired item to earn your rebate, which can be paid to you in a variety of ways. Ebates, for example, will send you your accumulated rebate every quarter in the form of a check, a PayPal deposit, or, in some instances, as a digital gift card.

Bring cold, hard cash. “You actually spend less when you use cash,” Cruze explains. “Cash is emotional. You feel it when you pay with tangible currency. You don’t get that same sensation when you swipe a piece of plastic. Also, you’ll be less anxious when you use cash because you know to stop spending when the money runs out.

Even if you can’t buy everything you want, you’ll still feel relieved about not having to make a payment in the new year!”

Collect coupons. Many consumers think coupons are relics from the past. Not so; they’ve just gone digital. So put down those scissors and go online. Some well-trafficked coupon sites include Coupons.com, TheKrazyCouponLady.com, RetailMeNot.com, and CouponSherpa. com. Most of the sites offer coupons that can be used in a physical or digital store. Additionally, Honey is a browser extension that will automatically apply all coupon codes available to find the one that will save you the most money at select online retailers.

Shop on Black Friday—or not. If you’re convinced that Black Friday offers the best deals, then head to the mall in the wee hours. Indeed, Black Friday does have incomparable sales, such as classic toys at 40-50 percent off. If you’d rather bypass the chaos, however, venture out later in the day. “All the heavily promoted items will probably be gone, but you can still find pretty good deals while avoiding the crazy crowds that pile in when the doors open,” Cruze says.

Sign up with online stores, “like” their Facebook page, or follow them on Twitter, so you can be alerted to upcoming sales and promotions. You may end up getting an enormous amount of emails, but if you’re patient enough you may find what you’re looking for at a great price, and sometimes with free shipping too.

Set your sights on Cyber Monday, which is the Black Friday of the Internet. You can find a lot of good deals without having to camp out in a parking lot all night, Cruze says. In addition to shopping the sales at online stores, you may want to browse eBay. The reason? Some shoppers hit the stores on Black Friday to purchase popular items at rock-bottom prices and then sell them for a profit on eBay. So with a bit of luck, you may be able to pick up that gift at only a small premium over its Black Friday price.

While You’re Shopping

Now that you’ve planned and are ready to stock up on gifts, remember to: Track the rise and fall of prices. It’s difficult to pin down an item’s price during the hectic holidays; even Amazon changes the prices of individual items frequently. The site CamelCamelCamel.com is designed for shopping on Amazon—it generates alerts based on price and availability, so you can be notified when the price for a desired item drops to a predetermined point. In addition, the site has price history charts for more than 18 million Amazon items.

Be cyber-cart smart. One way you can potentially score coupons to an online store is by providing your email address and adding merchandise to your cart—and then abandoning it. This may trigger an automated coupon to be delivered to your inbox. You may have been willing to purchase the items at full price, but by waiting a couple of days, you can buy your merchandise at 10-20 percent off.

Harness the power of price-matching apps. Whether you’re shopping online or at the mall, you can use a price-matching app to compare prices. The Flipp app brings up flyers from other stores, so you can easily determine where to find the best bargains. If the app shows a better price for an item at another store, you can show the cashier proof. (Many big box stores will match a lower price for the same item.) With Earny, your credit card and email link to the app so your past purchases can be tracked.

If you’re eligible for a price adjustment you can get the money back automatically. Finally, InvisibleHand is a browser extension that notifies you if the product you’re shopping for is available for less from another retailer. A convenient button links you to the relevant page on the competing website.

Come to stores prepared to crunch numbers. If you’re headed to a brick-and-mortar shop, have a calculator available so you can figure out the exact price of an item, including any discounts and sales tax. (You may lose the ability to do calculations in your head when you’re tired and the store is crowded).

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Don’t overlook off-peak shopping times. After the big sale days are over, try either shopping online on Tuesdays, as cyber retailers tend to offer their best deals on that day, or at brick-and-mortar stores in the evenings. Some retailers may have the next day’s early-morning sales already in effect, saving you from having to rise at the crack of dawn.

Look for last-minute steals. For all the procrastinators out there, you may even do well shopping late in the season. Some of the best deals arrive the week before Christmas, according to the New York Times.

Outsmart the shopping environment. Sure, you love stores’ holiday music and ambience—but they’re up to no good. Studies have shown that Christmas songs evoke nostalgia and generosity, leading to larger purchases, explains Mari Corella, a retail specialist who has worked for major retailers such as Sears and Saks Fifth Avenue. The same is true of scent. “During the holidays, stores often smell of gingerbread and pine, invoking a sense of warmth,” she says, leading to—yep—more spending. Some experts recommend wearing headphones with soothing music playing to calm you during the stress of shopping. (Can you guess what stress leads to?)

Even the placement of products is designed to make you spend more. Brands pay to have their items on the end of the aisles or at eye level, Corella shares: “The cost of this additional exposure is added to the cost of the product.” She recommends browsing the entire section to make sure you’re getting the best price.

Think out of the (gift) box. Not everything you buy has to be expensive or from a popular retailer. Consider shopping at thrift shops for vintage items, or gathering the family together to make DIY gifts, such as personalized stationery for the grandparents. Something handmade, and from the heart, is priceless—in every sense of the word.

Denise Porretto is a freelance writer living in Princeton, NJ.

SOMETHING for the

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things to do

city bound

N Y C

Family Fun in Manhattan Courtesy American Girl

Courtesy New York Theatre Ballet

W he hile y re ou , v ’r isit e …

What’s more festive than a trip to the Land of Sweets?

Get Crackin’ this Christmas

Patrick Cashin

Train-obsessed children will delight at the sight of mini locomotives.

Choo Choo!

Dazzling children and adults alike, the Transit Museum’s 17th Annual Holiday Train Show will feature Lionel trains traveling along a 34-foot, two-level, “O” gauge model train layout in the Shuttle Passage of Grand Central Terminal. Departing from a miniature replica of Grand Central on their way to the North Pole, the model trains featured in this year’s exhibit will be set against a backdrop designed by artist Ebony Bolt. Through Feb. 3: Monday-Friday, 8am-8pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm. Age: All. FREE. New York Transit Museum Gallery and Store, Grand Central Terminal, Midtown. grandcentralterminal.com.

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American Girl Place

For a day filled with fun and imagination, head over to American Girl Place to dine with your doll at the American Girl Café for brunch, afternoon tea, lunch, or dinner. Then, visit the salon for a spa treatment, ear piercing for both you and your doll, or get your hair done. It’s way more than just a store; it’s a whole day filled with activities.

Visit it: American Girl Place Rockefeller Plaza, 75 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown; americangirl.com; 877-247-5223 Can’t-miss event: Holiday Cookie Decorating: Fridays, Dec. 7-14 at 11am Directions: Approximately a 45-minute drive from New City

Courtesy One World Observatory

From a luminous owl that flies above the audience to mice dressed in polka dots and dancers with huge chopsticks, this re-imagined version of The Nutcracker bursts with energy and excitement. The production is danced to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score and set in Art Nouveau style circa 1907 with choreography by Keith Michael, set design by Gillian Bradshaw-Smith, and costumes by Resident Costume Designer of the Metropolitan Opera, Sylvia Taalsohn Nolan. Dec. 14-16: Friday, 6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am, 1pm, and 3:30pm. Age: All. $27; $15 children. Florence Gould Hall, 55 E. 59th St., Upper East Side. nytb.org.

At American Girl Holiday Cookie Decorating, visitors will decorate three cookies with festive frosting and sprinkles and then take them home in a to-go box that can be decorated with stickers.

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

At the second annual Winter Onederland, your family will experience the holidaytransformed observatory, with visits from Santa, the Glacier Cave, the Giant Snow Globe, and more.

One World Observatory

See the city from a whole new perspective at One World Observatory, where you’ll climb 102 stories in 47 seconds in a SkyPod elevator. Step onto the Sky Portal and see the streets 100 floors below, and, of course, experience 360 views of the greatest city in the world from the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere!

Visit it: One World Observatory, 285 Fulton St., Financial District; 844-595-1776; oneworldobservatory.com Can’t-miss event: Winter Onederland, Nov. 26-Jan. 7, 2019 Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 5-minute drive from New City

Ideas When You Need Them:

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Turn the page for details on The Laurie Berkner Band: A Holiday Celebration Concert (No. 3 on our list)

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DECEMBER CALENDAR

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Editor’s Hot Tickets

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We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

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Show Time, Smarty Pants

31

26

Holiday Fun

27

Animal Lovers

32

28

The Great Outdoors, Once Upon a Time

30

Fun Fairs & Festivals, Movers & Shakers On Screen, Crafty Kids Mini Musicians, Little Foodies

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

4

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

Santa Breakfast & Dance Party!

1

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 9-11am WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a delicious buffet including, bacon, eggs, sausage, waffles, and more, all while listening to the sounds of the season with live entertainment.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A special chance to meet Santa and join him in a parade back to Santaland.

WANT TO GO? $22; $20 children ages 3-12. 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

2

Hanukkah Laser Light Show

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 6:30-8pm WHERE: JCC of Rockland, 450 W. Nyack Road, West Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Wear your PJs and bring a blanket for this extravaganza of lasers, lights, Hanukkah, and science.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Doughnuts will be served to enjoy during the show!

WANT TO GO? $36 for a family of four; $5 per additional family member. 845-362-4400. jccrockland.org.

The Laurie Berkner Band: A Holiday Celebration Concert

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 9, 2pm WHERE: Bergen PAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ AGES: Newborn to 5

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

3

WHAT: The Laurie Berkner Band will celebrate the holiday season with traditional songs such as “Jingle Bells” and “Frosty the Snowman,” plus originals from Laurie’s album, A Laurie Berkner Christmas.

WHY WE LOVE IT: You can also expect fan favorites from Laurie’s recently released greatest hits album.

WANT TO GO? $29 and up. 201-227-1030. bergenpac.org.

4

Rockland Youth Dance Ensemble Presents ‘The Nutcracker’

WHEN: Dec. 1-9, Friday, 7pm, Saturday-Sunday, 1pm and 4pm WHERE: Rockland Community College Cultural Arts Theatre, 145 College Ave., Suffern

AGES: All WHAT: More than 220 ballet students ages 7-18 will perform this year, with the junior performers dancing Dec. 1-2, and the senior performers dancing Dec. 7-9.

WHY WE LOVE IT: All 1pm and the Dec. 7, 7pm performances, are narrated WANT TO GO? $22 in advance; $25 at the door. 845-623-2808. rocklandyouthdanceensemble.org.

Toddler Drive In Movie: ‘Frozen’ Sing-along FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 13, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Toddlers are invited to watch sing-along Frozen WHY WE LOVE IT: Who doesn’t love a roomful of tots singing “Let It Go?!”

WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.

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6

Literary Lions Series: Sunday Afternoon with Distinguished Authors

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 16, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Rockland Center for the Arts, 27 S. Greenbush Road, West Nyack AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Topics will include the aspirations of small business owners, the community’s commemoration of underground-railroad conductors, and a local playwright’s celebration of Nelson Mandela.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Nyack residents will appreciate a little bit of local history.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 students. 8453580877. rocklandartcenter.org.

Winter Solstice Celebration

7

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 21, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Learn about some of the different solstice celebrations from around the world, burn a Yule log, and finish with an evening hike to Pfister’s Pond.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s the perfect after-dark seasonal adventure for families.

WANT TO GO? $5 members; $10 non-members. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

‘Toyland’ Holiday Show FREE

WHEN: Dec. 2 -23, Sundays, 1-4pm WHERE: Orangetown Historical Museum and Archives, 213 Blue Hill Road, Pearl River AGES: All WHAT: A roomful of 19th- and 20th-century American toys will be on view and Santa will be there!

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will love comparing their modern-day marvels with traditional trinkets.

WANT TO GO? 8453981302. orangetownmuseum.com.

8

Happy Noon Year’s Eve Party FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 29, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Celebrate a Noon Year’s Eve party with stories, songs, a craft, party hats, favors, and food.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Enjoy NYE early with the kiddos.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Westchester’s Winter Wonderland

9

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Thursdays, 5-9pm; Fridays and Saturdays, 5-10pm; Sundays, 5-9pm WHERE: Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla AGES: All WHAT: A one-of-a-kind holiday extravaganza featuring a Santa Experience, skating on an outdoor ice rink, a circus, rides, food trucks, and nightly magic shows!

WHY WE LOVE IT: There’s something special for children of all ages at this seasonal must-see.

WANT TO GO? $20; free for children ages 3 and younger.

914-231-4600. wwinterwonderland.com.

10

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 six no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome.

Super Heroes Chutes & Ladders FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 11am-1pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Drop in and play the beloved board game, super hero fashion!

Costumes encouraged.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Holiday Open House at Skylands Manor FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 2: check website for times WHERE: Skylands New Jersey Botanical Gardens, 26 Morris Road, Ringwood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: The manor will be decorated floor to ceiling for a tribute to the many festive celebrations held when Skylands was a private estate.

WANT TO GO? 973-9629534. njbg.org.

Winter Wonderland Kick-Off FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 13, 6-8pm WHERE: Congers Lake Memorial Park, 6 Gilchrest Road, Congers AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a beautiful light display, horse drawn carriage rides, s’mores, tree lighting, and more. Snow/rain date: Dec. 14.

WANT TO GO? 845-639-2000. town.clarkstown.ny.us.

Breakerspace FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 28, 1-3pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Tired of building? Ready to break stuff? Have fun taking things apart with a screwdriver and other tools.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Holiday Lights in Bloom FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 30: Friday-Sunday, 5-8pm WHERE: The Orange County Arboretum, Thomas Bull Memorial Park State Route 416, Montgomery AGES: All WHAT: Visitors will be amazed by the lit trees, gardens filled with an assortment of flowers, and patriotic decorations.

WANT TO GO? 845-615-3830. orangecountygov.com.

Weekly Drop-In at Rockland Baby Cafe FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 31, 2019: Tuesdays, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Rockland Baby Cafe, 14 S. Main St., Spring Valley AGES: Newborn to 2, Adult WHAT: Meet and talk to new moms, learn how to make breast-feeding easier, and get tips on pumping, going back to work, and other parenting topics.

WANT TO GO? 914-922-2240. rocklandgov.com. ››

RocklandParent 23

‘A Christmas Carol’

WHEN: Dec. 15 -16, Saturday, 3pm and 8pm; Sunday, 1pm and 4:30pm WHERE: Bergen PAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on a magical journey through Christmas past, present, and future in this classic story. For the first time, local talent will shine in all the roles.

WANT TO GO? $15-$29. 201-227-1030. bergenpac.org.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

SHOW TIME! New Jersey Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’

WHEN: Dec. 1 -2, Saturday and Sunday, 1pm and 4:30pm WHERE: Bergen PAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Nothing says “holiday magic” better than the classic Nutcracker!

WANT TO GO? $23-$53. 201-227-1030. bergenpac.org.

WHEN: Dec. 26 -27, Wednesday and Thursday, 7pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Audiences of all ages will marvel at soaring acrobatics, gravity-defying feats, and extravagant theatrical production numbers that celebrate Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s in a two-hour, breathtaking spectacle.

WANT TO GO? $29-$69. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

SMARTY PANTS

PAW Patrol Live! ‘Race to the Rescue’

Financing an Independent School Education FREE

WHEN: Dec. 8 -9, Saturday and Sunday, 2pm and 6pm; Sunday, 10am WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Ryder and the rescue dogs of Nick Jr.’s hit animated series PAW Patrol return with their action-packed live tour! Expect lots of laughs and life lessons.

WANT TO GO? $23-$79. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 4, 7:30pm WHERE: Arts Building Music Room, Green Meadow Waldorf School, 307 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge, NJ AGES: Adult WHAT: See a presentation and ask questions about how to plan for and manage the cost of private school, in the context of other financial goals and priorities.

WANT TO GO? 845-356-2514 x311. gmws.org.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker

Prenatal Classes FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 14, 8pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the holiday season with an urban dance retelling of the timeless fairytale, featuring rap legend Kurtis Blow.

WANT TO GO? $29-$79. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, Live In Concert

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 2:00pm and 7:30pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Visit Halloween Town in costume for this very special, interactive screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas with Danny Elfman’s score performed live by the NJSO and a choir.

WANT TO GO? $39-$89. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 5, 5-6pm WHERE: Crystal Run Healthcare, 2 Centerock Road, West Nyack AGES: Adult WHAT: Learn valuable information on how to care for your child, what to expect in the first weeks and months, and when to call the doctor.

WANT TO GO? 845-348-1100. crystalrunhealthcare.com.

Science Squad FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 6, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Participate in fun chemistry, physics, and technology experiments. Then join in a coding adventure with Hour of Code!

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Forces of Nature Dance Theatre with Sweet Honey in the Rock

Minecraft Challengers FREE

‘The Nutcracker’ - Russian Ballet

Public Planetarium Show

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 2pm and 7:30pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Kwanzaa with this dazzling dance company, which joins the powerful musical collective Sweet Honey In The Rock.

WANT TO GO? $49-$69. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 16, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: The Nutcracker is a treasured holiday adventure that follows a little girl’s journey through a fantasy world of fairies, princes, toy soldiers, and an army of mice.

WANT TO GO? $29-$79. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8, 3-4pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Talk and play everything Minecraft!

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 9, 2-4pm WHERE: Town of Ramapo Challenger Center, 225 Route 59, Airmont AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A one-hour planetarium show with full-dome video and a handson astronomy-related project in the Center’s activity room.

WANT TO GO? $10 participants ages 9 and older; $5 seniors and children ages 8 and younger. 845-357-3416. ramapoparks.org.

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All The Dentistry Your Family Needs Under One Roof!

Open Evenings and Saturdays

DivorceCare for Women

WHEN: Through Dec. 11: Wednesdays, 6:30pm WHERE: Bethany Community Center, 605 Pascack Road, Township of Washington, NJ AGES: Adult WHAT: Join this weekly Divorce Support Group to find help, discover hope, and experience healing.

WANT TO GO? $15. 201-891-7494. bethanychurch.tv.

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Public Space Mission

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 16, 2-5pm WHERE: Town of Ramapo Challenger Center, 225 Route 59, Airmont AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Participants will work in a simulated Spacecraft and Mission Control, and half way through the mission, a crew exchange provides the “astronauts” an opportunity to experience the other simulator.

WANT TO GO? $10 participants ages 9 and older; $5 seniors and children ages 8 and younger. 845-357-3416. ramapoparks.org.

Master Ben’s Board Games FREE

WHEN: Dec. 3 -17, Mondays, 4-6pm WHERE: Nyack Library, 59 S. Broadway, Nyack AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Play some awesome new board games and meet fellow gamers.

WANT TO GO? 845-358-3370 x214. nyacklibrary.org.

Crazy 8s Math Club For Grades K - 2 FREE

WHEN: Dec. 3 -17, Mondays, 5-6pm WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Join Crazy 8s, where you’ll build stuff, run and jump, make music, and make a mess.

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

Gathering the Magic with Master Ben FREE

WHEN: Dec. 5 -26, Wednesdays, 4-6pm WHERE: Nyack Library, 59 S. Broadway, Nyack AGES: 13-17 WHAT: For new and experienced players alike, learn the basics of Magic the Gathering, along with new tricks while meeting new people.

WANT TO GO? 845-358-3370 x214. nyacklibrary.org.

Library Chess Group FREE

WHEN: Dec. 5 -26, Wednesdays, 5:30-8pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13 and older WHAT: New players are always welcome to check out this non-instructional chess club.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

FREE Consultation, X-Ray, and Exam! ($205 Value) Dedicated Children's Facility!

Pediatric Dentists with over 27 Years of Experience

140 Oak Tree Rd. Tappan, NJ

845-367-4866 SmileMoreDentist.com

Bar Bat Mitzvah Facebook Groups Ask questions, share ideas, and get advice.

Join today!

Westchester/Rockland/Fairfield: facebook.com/groups/WRCBarBatMitzvah

New Jersey: facebook.com/groups/NewJerseyBarBatMitzvah

Friday Fun at the Village Branch FREE

WHEN: Dec. 7 -28, Fridays, 4pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Enjoy different programs every week including Builder’s Club, games, PS4, Code Club, and Science Squad.

WANT TO GO? 845-429-3445. hkdpl.org. ››

Mıtzvah Market Find it. Book it. Celebrate!

mitzvahmarket.com RocklandParent 25

Mahwah Menorah Lighting & Chanukah Celebration FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 3, 6-7pm WHERE: Mahwah Municipal Building, 475 Corporate Drive, Mahwah, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a menorah lighting and Hanukkah celebration, featuring Judah Maccabee & Dreidel Man characters, refreshments, holiday crafts, glow-giveaways, and a grand raffle.

WANT TO GO? 201-848-0449. chabadplace.org/mahwah.

Franklin Lakes Borough Menorah Lighting & Chanukah Celebration FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 4, 6pm WHERE: Franklin Lakes Borough Hall, 480 De Korte Drive, Franklin Lakes, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Attend a menorah lighting and celebration featuring Judah Maccabee & Dreidel Man characters, snacks, holiday crafts, glow-giveaways, and a grand raffle.

WANT TO GO? 2018480449. chabadplace.org/franklinlakes.

Lots of Latkes

HOLIDAY FUN Holiday Cookie Cottages FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 2-3pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Bring a bag of candy to share and decorate graham cracker cookie cottages for the holidays.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Wyckoff Township Menorah Lighting FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 2, 5-6pm WHERE: Wyckoff Town Hall, 340 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a menorah lighting and Hanukkah celebration featuring Judah Maccabee & Dreidel Man characters, refreshments, holiday crafts, glow-giveaways, and a grand raffle.

WANT TO GO? 201-848-0449. chabadplace.org/wyckoff.

Saint Nicholas Day

WHEN: Dec. 1 -2, Saturday-Sunday, 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm WHERE: Historical Society of Rockland County, 20 Zukor Road, New City AGES: All WHAT: Join in the traditional Dutch celebration, see shoes magically filled with goodies, hear stories, enjoy holiday refreshments, and meet Saint Nicholas.

WANT TO GO? $5. 845-634-9629. rocklandhistory.org.

Teaneck Chabad House Family Chanukah Party FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 3, 6:30pm WHERE: Friends of Lubavitch of Bergen County, 513 Kenwood Place, Teaneck, NJ AGES: All WHAT: See a 6-foot menorah come alive in a live ice carving! A comedy magic show will follow the lighting, plus dreidels for every child, latkes, music, doughnuts, and chocolate gelt for all.

WANT TO GO? 201-907-0686. chabadhouse.com.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 5, 5-7pm WHERE: Congregation Sons of Israel, 300 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack AGES: All WHAT: There will be crafts ($10 each), Israeli dancing, dinner, and lots and lots of latkes!

WANT TO GO? $18; free for children. 845-358-3767. csinyack.org.

Multicultural Holiday Story Time FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 5, 10-10:45am WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join for stories, songs, and some holiday refreshments.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Pizza with Santa

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7, 6-8:30pm WHERE: JTS Community Center, 115 Torne Valley Road, Hillburn AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy pizza, holiday music, a bounce house, and arts and crafts, followed by a visit and photo op with Santa!

WANT TO GO? $10 per family of five; $1 per additional child.

845-753-2324. ramapoparks.org.

Holiday Pajamarama FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 10, 6-7:15pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Wear your favorite holiday PJs to the library and enjoy some holiday stories, songs, and cookies and milk.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Christmas Carol Jubilee FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 14, 7-8pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13 and older WHAT: An enchanting evening of 17th- and 18th-century carols from Northwestern Europe and colonial America.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Kwanzaa Festival at NJPAC FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 10am WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All

WHAT: Enjoy West African dance and drums, a Kwanzaa ceremony and storytelling, arts and crafts, including arm knitting, live performances, and more.

WANT TO GO? 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

Pinterest Party at the Library: Waterless Snow Globes FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 20, 6:30-7:45pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Bring in a clear jar with lid to create a holiday snow globe.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Winter Wonderland Fireworks FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 27, 7:30-8pm WHERE: Congers Lake Memorial Park, 6 Gilchrest Road, Congers AGES: All WHAT: Witness a beautiful Winter Wonderland fireworks display! Rain/ snow date: Dec. 28.

WANT TO GO? 845-639-2000. town.clarkstown.ny.us.

Holiday Fun @ the Village Branch FREE

WHEN: Dec. 26 -28, Wednesday-Friday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St, Haverstraw AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Visit the library for movie marathons, coloring club, PS4 play time, and more.

WANT TO GO? 845-429-3445. hkdpl.org.

Holiday Fun FREE

WHEN: Dec. 26 -28, Wednesday-Friday, 10am-8pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: All WHAT: Take a break during the holidays with movie marathons, a coloring club, a builders club, and more.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

ANIMAL LOVERS Anteater Day 2018 FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 11am-2pm WHERE: Bergen County Zoo, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Learn about animal habitats, adaptations, and artifacts, then attend one of the story and craft sessions about anteaters.

WANT TO GO? 201-262-3771. friendsofbergencountyzoo.org.

READ to a Dog FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Sign up for a 15-minute session to read to a dog.

WANT TO GO? 845-429-3445. hkdpl.org.

Pat’s Pals: Animals in Winter FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 11am-12pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Meet some animals up close and learn how they deal with winter, from adaptation to hibernation to migration.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Seasonal Story Time FREE

WHEN: Dec. 2 -16, First and third Sunday of the month, 1:30pm WHERE: Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, 443 Van Nostrand Ave., Englewood, NJ AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Sit down for a snuggly story time and a small animal presentation.

WANT TO GO? 201-567-1265. flatrockbrook.org.

Reading to Dogs with Paws for a Cause! FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 19, 6-7pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Children are invited to read to a certified therapy dog to improve their reading skills.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Read to a Dog FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 19: Saturday, Dec. 1, 10:30am-12pm; Sunday,Dec. 2, 1:30-3pm; Wednesday, Dec. 19, 5-6:30pm.

WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Reserve a 15-minute session to read to a four-legged friend.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Beary Merry Holiday

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 22, 10:30am WHERE: Trailside Museum and Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park, 55 Hessian Drive, Highland Falls AGES: All WHAT: Make tasty holiday snacks for the black bears, then watch them unwrap their gift boxes full of delicious treats!

WANT TO GO? $1 Suggested Donation. 845-786-2701 x293. trailsidezoo.org. ››

A Hedgehog in My Stocking and Other Holiday Surprises FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 4, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Meet a live hedgehog and other animals!

WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.

R.E.A.D. to Therapy Dogs FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 12, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Snuggle up to a soft dog with a good book.

WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.

RocklandParent 27

Crafting And Campfire

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8, 4:30-6:30pm WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Design winter decorations using natural materials and have s’mores and hot cocoa in front of a cozy fire.

WANT TO GO? $8 members; $12 non-members. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

Christmas Bird Count FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 9am-1pm WHERE: Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, 443 Van Nostrand Ave., Englewood, NJ AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Go out in small groups to search sections of the park and identify different species of birds, then enjoy hot refreshments.

WANT TO GO? 201-567-1265. flatrockbrook.org.

Meteor Gazing

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Seasonal Trail Cleanup FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 10-11:30am WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Don’t wait for Earth Day to take care of our planet. Help by picking up trash and cleaning up the forest.

WANT TO GO? 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

Predator Appreciation Saturday

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 10am WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, 25 Muser Drive, Cornwall AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Participants will create a human food web, discover incredible predator adaptations and behaviors, and come face-to-face with some living predators.

WANT TO GO? Members: $5, $3 children; Non-Members: $10, $7 children. 845-534-5506. hhnaturemuseum.org.

Primitive Living Skills - Shelter Building Part II

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 10am-12:30pm WHERE: The Nature Place Day Camp, 285 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge, NJ AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Created especially for children, this session will round out participants experience in primitive shelter building. Gain new skills, feel comfortable in nature, and make new friends!

WANT TO GO? $45. 8453561234. thenatureplace.com.

Seasonal Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8, 2-3pm WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Families will receive a set of clues to solve nature riddles along Nature Center trails.

WANT TO GO? $3 members, $10 family max; $6 non-members, $20 family max; free for children younger than 2. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, 120 Muser Drive, Cornwall AGES: All WHAT: Take a special look at the Geminid meteor shower!

WANT TO GO? Members: $6, $4 children 3 and older; Non-Members: $8, $6 children 3 and older; free for children 2 and younger.

845-534-5506. hhnaturemuseum.org.

Primitive Living Skills - Tracking, Stalking, and Movement

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 10am-12:30pm WHERE: The Nature Place Day Camp, 285 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge, NJ AGES: 9-17 WHAT: The Nature Place Day Camp’s Primitive Living Skills is an immersive, hands-on program, designed to build a foundation in wilderness skills. This session will explore tracking, stalking, and movement as they pertain to the wilderness world.

WANT TO GO? $45. 8453561234. thenatureplace.com.

Project Feederwatch FREE

WHEN: Dec. 3 -31, Mondays and Fridays, 10am-12pm WHERE: Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, 443 Van Nostrand Ave., Englewood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Observe the birds at the feeders as often as you like and help collect valuable data for this North American project.

WANT TO GO? 201-567-1265. flatrockbrook.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME! Story Time and Activities Featuring How to Catch a Snowman FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 11am WHERE: Barnes & Noble -Palisades Center, 4416 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Our heroes’ entry for the snowman contest has magically come to life. Will the snowman teach our heroes a lesson they’ll never forget?

WANT TO GO? 845-348-4701.

Stories & Craft FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 3, 2-2:45pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10

W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy stories, crafts, and more!

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Preschool Story & Craft FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 6, 4:30-5:15pm WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Join Miss Nancy for stories and crafts.

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

Pajama Time FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 6, 6:30-7pm WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: All WHAT: Head to the library in your pajamas for a story time before bed.

Teddy bears welcome!

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

Pajama Story Time and Activities Featuring The Polar Express FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7, 7pm WHERE: Barnes & Noble -Palisades Center, 4416 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Check out this beloved Christmas story featuring a young boy who is welcomed aboard on a magical trip to the North Pole where he gets to make his Christmas wish, plus enjoy hot cocoa and cookies!

WANT TO GO? 845-348-4701.

Drag Queen Story Time FREE

Exploration Station FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 12, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Explore science and the world around you with hands-on stations, along with a discussion and a story.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Book Buddies FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 13, 6-7pm WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Enjoy a story time!

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

Nature Story Time

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 10-10:30am WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Families will enjoy a nature-themed story and a visit from one of TNC’s Animal Ambassadors. Animals may include snakes, frogs, turtles, owls, or a hawk.

WANT TO GO? $3 members; $6 non-members; free for children younger than 2. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.

Story Time for Babies and Toddlers FREE

WHEN: Dec. 3 -17, Mondays, 10:15-10:45am and 11:15-11:45am WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Hear fun stories and songs.

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 9, 2-3pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Don’t miss the library’s first Drag Queen Story time! Featuring guest performer Zachary Clause, with stories, songs, and crafts.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Story Time and a Craft with Miss Rosemary FREE

Stories & Craft FREE

Pre-School Story & Craft FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 10, 2-2:45pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Take in an afternoon of stories, craft, and more.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Tales & Tunes FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 11: Mondays, 11am and 7pm; Tuesdays, 11:30am WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Walkers under 3 years old can partake in stories, finger plays, songs, and bubbles! Registration is open. Parent/caregiver participation required WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Stories & Craft FREE

WHEN: Dec. 5 -12, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Have a blast with stories, crafts, and more!

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

WHEN: Dec. 4 -18, Tuesdays, 1:30-2:15pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Preschoolers will read, sing, move, and create during this fun story time that supports early literacy.

WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.

WHEN: Dec. 13 -20, Thursdays, 4:30-5:15pm WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join Miss Nancy for stories and crafts!

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

Book Club for Grades 3-5 FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 20, 6-7pm WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: 5-12 WHAT: You’re never too young to join a book club!

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

Playtime Story Time FREE

WHEN: Dec. 7 -21, Thursdays, 10:30am-11:15pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Partake in stories and songs, sensory story time with cool activities, fun with non-fiction, and more.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org. ›› RocklandParent 29

MOVERS & SHAKERS 3D Printing Innovation Workshop FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 2-4pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn basic 3D CAD concepts in a very user-friendly design platform.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Teen Yule Ball FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 6-9pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Dress up in your finest wizarding attire or dance the night away in comfy muggle clothes.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Builders Club FREE

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS 2018 Winter Shopping Village FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 2, 1-5pm WHERE: Rockland Country Day School, 34 Kings Highway, Congers AGES: All WHAT: A one-stop shopping event for all of your holiday gifts, including jewelry, handbags, cosmetics, gift baskets, and more.

WANT TO GO? 845-268-2802. rocklandcds.org.

Fellowship Community Christmas Festival & Holiday Sale FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 2: Friday, 3-7pm; Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-3pm WHERE: Fellowship Community, 241 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge AGES: All WHAT: Shop handmade goods for holiday gifts, including candles, wooden toys, scarves and mittens, pottery, jams, and jewelry.

WANT TO GO? 845-356-8494. fellowshipcommunity.org.

Kwanzaa Festival & Marketplace FREE

WHEN: Dec. 14 -15, Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, 10am-10pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: NJPAC’s most popular community marketplace offers more options than ever, including custom and cultural clothing, handcrafted jewelry, bath and body products, candles, books, and art.

WANT TO GO? 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

Affordable Art & Pottery Bazaar FREE

WHEN: Dec. 9 -23, Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm; Weekends, 11am-4pm WHERE: Rockland Center for the Arts, 27 S. Greenbush Road, West Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Browse jewelry, ornaments, functional ceramics, and original 2D and 3D art from known artists. All proceeds benefit RoCA’s free exhibitions.

WANT TO GO? 845-358-0877. rocklandartcenter.org.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Dec. 3 -5, Monday-Wednesday, 5-6pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Have fun with Legos, marble runs, magic nuudles, littleBits, K’nex, and more.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Preschool LEGO Builders! FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7, 10:30-11am WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Together, preschoolers and their caregivers will create their own Lego designs for display at the library.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Super Smash Bros. Smashfest! for Teens FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 7, 4-6:45pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Get ready for Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo Switch!

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Dominican College Parents Night Out

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8, 6-9pm WHERE: Dominican College, 495 Western Highway, Orangeburg AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Drop kids off for a night of sports, games, prizes, crafts, food, and fun.

WANT TO GO? $40. 8458487705. totalcamps.com.

Dungeons & Dragons for Teens FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 15, 12-2pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Play a game of 5th edition. Dice, minis, and a set of core rulebooks will be provided.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Lego Club FREE

WHEN: Dec. 4 -18, select Tuesdays, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Build whatever you can imagine.

WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.

Fun with Play Dough FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 19, 1:30-2pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Preschoolers and their caregivers will craft with Play Dough and decorate their creations with sequins, wiggly eyes, beads, pipe cleaners, and colorful sticks.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Baby Signs with Miss Fran FREE

WHEN: Dec. 6 -20, Thursdays, 10-11am WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: You and your child will learn signs so that they can communicate before they can talk. This interactive class features music with guitar, songs, puppets, instruments, movement, sign language, and laughter.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Fans Of Fiction FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 27, 6-7pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Join other teens to discuss favorite books, movies, TV shows, and genres.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

ON SCREEN Holiday Film & Coloring FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 5, 10:30-11am WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Watch a preschool film, then use crayons, colored pencils, stickers, or stampers to decorate a holiday coloring sheet.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Teen Holiday Movie FREE

CRAFTY KIDS

Watercolor Painting for the Joy of It: Cat in the Window FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8, 10-11:30am WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Learn the basics of watercolor painting.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Teen Craft FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 11, 6-7pm WHERE: Nyack Library, 59 S. Broadway, Nyack AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Make stuff with Miss Morgan!

WANT TO GO? 845-358-3370 x214. nyacklibrary.org.

LEGO Builders! FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 12, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create your own Lego designs for display at the library.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

Sew-You Club FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 13: Thursdays (except Thanksgiving), 7-8:15pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Learn the basic sewing skills to get you started and make a cool project to take home.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Glaze Story Time

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 10, 4-6pm WHERE: Nyack Library, 59 S. Broadway, Nyack AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Come watch a holiday film!

WANT TO GO? 845-358-3370 x214. nyacklibrary.org.

WHEN: Dec. 3 -17, Mondays, 11:30am-12pm WHERE: Glaze, 34 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children enjoy 30 minutes of a new book each week and painting a piece of pottery.

WANT TO GO? $20. 845-359-9020. glazeartstudio.com.

Family Movie FREE

Anime Club for Teens FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 10, 5-7pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join for a fun family movie!

WANT TO GO? 845-429-3445. hkdpl.org.

Tween Movie Night FREE

WHEN: Dec. 4 -18, Tuesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Discuss anime and manga with your friends.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Crafts with Miss Cheryl FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 11, 5-7:30pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Watch the movie Elf and make candy creations to eat and take home.

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 19, 4:30-5:15pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Make a fun craft!

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Goosebumps: Movie, Game, & Craft FREE

Wee Craft Together FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 14, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Watch an episode of the Goosebumps TV series, play a game, and make a craft.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2100. rosememoriallibrary.org.

WHEN: Dec. 17 -20, Monday, 10-10:30am; Thursday, 6-6:30pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Littlest ones can make a fun craft with caregiver participation.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org. ›› RocklandParent 31

School-Day-Off Music Camp

WHEN: Dec. 26 -28, 9am-12:30pm and 12:30pm-4pm WHERE: Bach To Rock Nanuet, 150 E. Route 59, Nanuet AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Choose from Rock Band Camp, DJ Camp, Glee Camp, or Preschool Camp.

WANT TO GO? $48-$80. 845-215-9536. nanuet.b2rmusic.com.

LITTLE FOODIES

Jr. Chefs-Stories & Cooking FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Bake and share some delicious cookies!

WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

Culinary Corner with Chef Nate FREE

MINI

MUSICIANS Palisades Community Chamber Music Concert

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 9, 4pm WHERE: Palisades Community Center, 675 Oak Tree Road, Palisades AGES: All WHAT: Join for an exciting, new series curated by Palisadian Shelby Yamin.

WANT TO GO? $10 suggested donation. 845-359-3988. palisadescc.org.

Learn to play the Ukulele FREE

WHEN: Dec. 4 -11, Tuesday, 5-5:45pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: If your child is interested in the guitar, this is an excellent way to learn about music and the world of stringed instruments.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800.

Intro to Guitar FREE

WHEN: Dec. 4 -11, Tuesdays, 5:45-6:30pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The library has some guitars, but bring your own if you have one for this beginner level class.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Music Classes for Children FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 18, 11:45am WHERE: Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park W., Piermont AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Presented by Moon River Music Together with Flo Labaze, this class will teach music through play.

WANT TO GO? 845-359-4595. piermontlibrary.org.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 10, 5-6pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Learn how to make cookie dough and then bring cookies home to bake.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Healthy Cooking for Toddlers and their Caregivers FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 17, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Registered dietitian Megan Peterson will host and help kids expand their taste bud palates and try new food items.

WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.

Cupcake Wars FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 17, 6-7pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Show off your cupcake decorating skills and win prizes!

WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.

Culinary Corner with Chef Nate FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 17, 5-6pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn how to make potato pancakes from scratch.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-3800. hkdpl.org.

Teen Cooking FREE

WHEN: Dec. 4 -18, select Tuesdays, 6-7pm WHERE: Nyack Library, 59 S. Broadway, Nyack AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Cook with Miss Morgan!

WANT TO GO? 845-358-3370 x214. nyacklibrary.org.

Kids Night

WHEN: Through Jan. 1, 2019: Mondays, 6-8pm WHERE: Orangeburg Diner, 512 Route 303, Orangeburg AGES: All WHAT: Every Monday kids eat free with adult entree. Plus enjoy Sparkles the Clown, face painting, balloons, and prizes.

WANT TO GO? prices vary. 845-359-3592. orangetownclassicdiner.com.

things to do

where-to guide

HOLIDAY JOYS for Girls & Boys Compiled by Anja Webb

Happy Holidays! Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Christmas, or just enjoying a cozy winter with your loved ones, December is certainly the most wonderful time of the year! Spend some time outside at an ice-skating rink (or inside, too!) and grab a delicious hot cocoa afterward to warm up from the chilly weather. Head out of town to hand cut your Christmas tree. And if the frost and snow of a winter day doesn’t make your heart sing, check out one of our favorite indoor play spaces to beat cabin fever without freezing.

BEST HOT COCOA SPOTS American Bulldog Coffee Roasters

787 Chestnut Ridge Road, Spring Valley 845-352-5282; americanbulldogcoffeeroasters.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 7am-8pm; Saturday, 9am-8pm; Sunday, 9am-4pm A laid-back café where you can hang out with a strong coffee, hot blended drinks, including chocolate chai, and fresh baked goods.

Find more>> nymetroparents.com/hot-chocolate

CUT-YOUR-OWN CHRISTMAS TREE Emmerich Tree Farm

101 Sleepy Valley Road, Warwick 845-986-0151; emmerichtreefarm.com Hours: Nov. 23-Dec. 20: Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm Free trimming, drilling, shaking, and baling offered. Enjoy wagon rides to fields, free hot chocolate, and cookies by the bonfire.

Hotdogs by Pippy’s Food Truck will be on-site. Wreaths for sale.

Find more>> nymetroparents.com/christmas-tree

INDOOR PLAYSPACES

ICE-SKATING

Bounce! Trampoline Sports

Palisades Center Ice Rink

Find more>> nymetroparents.com/indoor-play-spaces

Find more>> nymetroparents.com/ice-skating

612 Corporate Way, Valley Cottage 845-268-4000; bouncevalleycottage.com Bounce! offers the opportunity to play sports, have fun, and get fit on 10,000 square feet of interconnected trampolines. The facility offers open jump time, trampoline dodge ball, slam dunk basketball, and foam pit jumping.

4900 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack 845-353-4855; palisadescentericerink.com Hours: Daily, year-round. Call or check the website for public skating times.

Price: $11; $9 seniors and children younger than 10. $4 skate rental. Ten-visit punch cards and season passes available.

family life home

13 Ways to Stay Safe This Holiday Season

››

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but the holidays are also fraught with potential home safety hazards. Read on as we help you keep your entire family safe this season. By Lambeth Hochwald ’

T

is the season to be jolly for sure. But the holidays are also the time of year when things get so hectic that household accidents can easily occur. Whether it’s a Christmas tree that topples over or a bubbling pot of mulled cider that splatters, it’s important to be aware of the biggest potential safety hazards around the house during the holidays, when you may be more focused on stringing lights than the toddler getting tangled in the electrical cord. Here are the 13 most important things you can do to stay safe this holiday season.

Practice smart Christmas tree set-up. Once you’ve hauled your tree into your home, make sure to place it in a sturdy, appropriately sized stand. You need to take this crucial step to ensure it doesn’t become a tipping hazard, says Debra Holtzman, a nationally recognized child safety and health expert and the author of The Safe Baby.

“To prevent your tree from tipping over, securely anchor it or put a safety gate around it,” she says. In addition, place your tree away from the busiest trafficked areas in your home. “Always place it out of the doorways, exits, and heat sources,” she says.

Stay on top of family members’ tree allergies. Some live Christmas trees, including cedars, can cause asthma, allergies, and an itchy skin rash because they can be filled with mold spores and allergens, says Robert Weitz, a certified microbial investigator and founder of RTK Environmental, a mold testing and mold inspec-

34

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

tion company in New York City. In addition, the needles on pine, spruce, and fir trees are a definite choking hazard.

How do you know if a family member may be allergic? “Rashes can be a sign of mold allergy or sensitivity,” Weitz says. “Other symptoms can include headaches, fatigue, throat and eye irritations, wheezing, and many respiratory problems including asthma.” If your child suffers from allergies or asthma consider purchasing a fake tree.

Be choosy about artificial trees. Many are manufactured in China and made from two items: PVC, a petroleum-based plastic, and lead, used to stabilize PVC. “The lead in the ‘greens’ breaks down into lead dust, which is released into the air, poisoning everyone, but especially children younger than six,” Weitz says. “To protect your children from lead poisoning, be sure to buy a tree that’s made in the USA.” Tip: If you’re going the artificial tree route, also make sure it’s labeled “fire resistant,” Holtzman says.

Decorate safely. Only purchase décor that is made of non-combustible or flame-retardant materials, Holtzman advises. “If you have small children, avoid decorations that are sharp, breakable, weighted, or have small movable parts,” she says, “and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.” Some decorations may contain lead, cadmium (a toxic metal), or other toxic materials that can be harmful to young children, so it’s best to stow all holiday decorations out of reach. Tip: There’s an easy way to iden-

tify objects that are too small for your child. “If the object itself or a detachable part fits through an empty toilet paper roll, it is unsafe and should be kept away from children under the age of three years and from any child who still puts objects in her mouth,” Holtzman says.

Assess your plants. There’s nothing like filling your home with cheery seasonal plants such as mistletoe, holly, Christmas rose, and Jerusalem cherry. However, these are all quite poisonous. “Be sure to keep these plants (and all plants) out of the reach of small children,” Holtzman says. Also, while those ubiquitous Christmastime poinsettias were once blamed for a death about a century ago, recent studies indicate they’re not as toxic as was thought at that time, Holtzman says. However, they may cause some gastric irritation and burning in the mouth if the leaves are ingested, so make sure your little ones stay away from them. Important tip: If you suspect your child has ingested a poisonous plant, call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 ASAP. Skip the candles. While they add wonderful atmosphere to a holiday celebration, avoid them, Holtzman says. “Consider using electric or battery-operated flameless candles instead,” she says. If you just can’t quit the candles, keep them on a stable, heat-resistant surface in sight where kids and pets cannot reach them or knock them over. “And always make sure you extinguish them when you leave the room or home or go to sleep, and never use lit candles to decorate the tree,” Holtzman adds.

Use caution with electric lights. This means using only lights that have been tested for safety by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories. “And make sure to check outdoor lights for labels showing that the lights have been certified for outdoor use, and only plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter-protected receptacle or to a portable GFCI,” Holtzman says. “To be safe always read the manufacturer’s instructions for the maximum number of light strands to connect. Replace any strand [that has] a frayed cord or loose bulb connections.”

Practice fireplace safety. Once a year you should hire a professional chimney sweep to prevent build-up and potential fire hazards in your fireplace, Holtzman says. “In addition, be sure to put a safety gate in the doorway to the room with a fireplace or install a hearth gate around the area,” she adds. Never leave your fire unattended. “Extinguish the fire fully before leaving the house or going to bed and allow the ashes to cool before removing them,” she says.

Ashes should be disposed of in a tightly covered metal container and placed outdoors, at least 10 feet from the home and any other nearby buildings. “Never empty the ash directly into a trash can,” Holtzman says. “Always douse and saturate the ashes with water.”

Take precautions with button batteries. You know those small, shiny batteries that are found in flashing holiday jewelry or holiday decorations? They’re a severe choking hazard. “When swallowed, a coin-sized lithium battery can lodge in the throat of a child,” Holtzman says. “Saliva then triggers an electrical current, causing a chemical reaction that can severely burn the esophagus in as little as two hours. The chemicals in the battery can also cause serious harm to a child if the battery is inserted into the ear or nose.” Your best bet: Corral any item that contains lithium batteries including your remote controls, toys, singing greeting cards, digital thermometers, flameless candles, calculators, key fobs, watches, flashing holiday jewelry, or decorations. “Know which items and devices in your home have button batteries,” Holtzman says. “Children love to pick up gadgets, play with them, and take them apart. Duct tape battery compartments if they do not have a screw to secure them closed, and keep these objects out of the sight and reach of small children.”

Keep alcohol out of reach. That bowl of spiked holiday punch and those cups of leftover drinks (including the ice cubes in them) that may be strewn around the house should be kept out of reach of children at all times. Ditto for the eggnog. “Alcohol affects children more drastically than adults, so even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous,” Holtzman says. “Remove all empty and partially empty cups as soon as possible.”

Plan menus around guests’ allergies. The holidays are a wonderful time for friends and family to get together, but a celebration can go seriously awry if any guests have allergies to the foods you are serving or the ones that are being brought to a potluck. Send around a list of foods you plan to serve to your guests before they arrive at your house so you’re sure to keep your visitors safe.

Place choking-hazard treats out of reach. For many families, holiday parties are best known for featuring delicious homemade Chex mix and bowls of mixed nuts. “Those are exactly the types of foods you should keep out of the reach of young children,” Holtzman says. “Any firm round foods such as popcorn, nuts, and candy canes should be kept as far away from children as possible because they pose a choking risk.”

Create an no-kid zone. If you’re planning to serve food from your stovetop, whether it’s a bowl of chili, stew, or other cold-weather goodies, make your kitchen a no-kid zone, Holtzman says. Consider this a safe way to make sure your cuties don’t get splashed, burned, or injured while you’re cooking.

Lambeth Hochwald is a New York City-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in New York City.

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Sponsored by

The Pros and Cons of Elf on the Shelf ›› The little guy has sparked some big controversy! Which side of the shelf are you on? By Anja Webb

H

appy holidays! Many of you who celebrate Christmas have already unpacked your Elf on the Shelf and begun plotting the hijinks your little guy will get into for the ’gram. But is Elf on the Shelf really for everyone?

While he’s loved by many, there are those who find the steelyeyed sprite manipulative or even—dare we say?—creepy. Let’s take a moment to think about the pros and cons of Santa’s little spy.

A Cute and Cherished Tradition

Now don’t get us wrong: We can see the value in creating a holiday tradition for your household. And, of course, we’ve all seen the pictures on social media of the little cuties bathing in marshmallow baths, sleeping in tissue boxes, and playing mini games of Twister with My Little Pony. A lot of families think their elf adds that extra dash of Christmas magic to their holiday season.

“My kids absolutely love it! It’s such a fun experience for them in preparation for Christmas,” says Antoinette McCune, a mother of three. “It’s also a fun, and sometimes stressful, game for us as parents to try and think of new ways to hide our little elf.”

And let’s not forget that the elf encourages kids to be on their best behavior during the month of December, which can certainly make parenting a little bit easier. “My son loves it! It works to remind him that Santa is watching if he is being good,” says Frank Martinez, a father of two. After all, a big part of the Santa lore is that ‘he sees you when you’re sleeping,’ whether that be through good old-fashioned omniscience or a scout elf.

(S)elfish Motives?

But not everyone seems to agree that the elf is adorable. “I was a nanny for a nine-year-old boy who loved his Elf on the Shelf, but 36

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

his parents misplaced it. The parents didn’t think anything of it, but every day after school he would come home and search the whole house for his elf. After seeing it wasn’t there, he assumed he was disliked by the elf,” says Sadie Sparks. “Trying to instill positive morals on a child by tricking them also seems very counterproductive to society.”

Though it may seem a bit harsh, others also feel it’s selfinterested for parents to use the Elf to teach morals. And, they add, it’s an approach that may backfire: The concept of being constantly under surveillance could scare the child or teach him that he should only behave when there is some tangible benefit to him, like getting presents.

“It really depends on the level of trust in the parent-child relationship. I definitely valued my privacy and my mom respected it to a degree,” says Brandon Klemm, a chef and pizza maker who grew up with the elf. “I don’t know how I feel about kids being afraid of being themselves because they believe they’re being watched at all times.” Now, that’s not entirely the Elf ’s fault; as previously mentioned, legend has it that Santa’s constantly watching kids. But something about having that abstract concept materialized and in the home doesn’t quite sit well with everyone.

A Less Invasive Elf

So what can we parents do if we still want a snazzy little add-on to our holiday celebrations, but one that doesn’t instill in our child a fear of being watched at all times? Well, we could try repurposing our Elf on the Shelf.

“I had an alternate version in my house growing up. It was called the Kindness Elf and my mom did a pretty good job of

making it a positive thing,” says Lauren Farrell, a student at New York University. “It was generally kept in public spaces within the house and every day I had to find the elf and it was always holding a different card that challenged me to do something kind for someone that day.”

Elf Alternative

If the elf doesn’t quite match your aesthetic (even though felt is so in right now) you can always give Reindeer in Here a chance: It’s a plush toy children are meant to bond with during the month of December. It’s similar to the elf, except children can touch and play with it, and its purpose is to listen to what the child really wants for Christmas and then inform Santa. “It’s not about watching a child, or intimidating a child,” says Adam Reed, an author, television producer, and creator of Reindeer in Here. “It’s about empowering and creating a positive Christmas tradition that families can look back to.”

Reindeer in Here is also designed with one antler shorter than the other and has a companion book that features a cast of sidekicks with visible differences, such as a cross-eyed penguin and a polar bear with a bit of a bald patch. “The true message is being different is normal, not being different is special,” Reed says. “This book is about getting to the heart of why each child is unique and different and finding what their true Christmas wishes are.”

Make Room for a Mensch

But let’s not forget that the holiday season is more than just Christmas. For all you guys and gals who celebrate Hanukkah, there’s a Mensch on the Bench—a Jewish man sitting on a bench—just for you. “It’s tough to be Jewish during the month of December. There’s Christmas music on every radio, and there’s decorations up, and all your friends have trees. You’re already feeling a little left out, and then Elf on the Shelf comes along and now we’re seeing that on social media as well,” says Neal Hoffman, creator of Mensch on a Bench. “There was an opportunity for what would be a Jewish alternative.”

Enter the Mensch (which translated literally means a person of integrity and honor). It’s a plush toy that watches over the menorah at night and encourages more family time and engagement with pre-existing Hanukkah traditions such as playing dreidel and eating latkes (potato pancakes) and gelt (chocolate coins).

The Mensch also places an emphasis on charity and doing good, as the name would imply. “Mensches encourage kids to do one good deed,” Hoffman says. “One of the rules for having a mensch is that on one night of Hanukkah you give presents to someone in need rather than get presents yourself.”

Whether you love your elf (or mensch) or wish it would just stop staring at you, here’s to a happy and wholesome holiday season with your family.

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Experts suggest teens volunteer to get involved with the community and broaden their view of the world around them.

How to Raise A World-Aware Teen ›› Your child’s now old enough to grasp global issues—and to change the planet for the better, too. By Allison Ingrum

E

very few minutes our phones light up with the latest news alert. From social issues to politics, there seems to be a constant flow of news cycling from around the globe. Being world-aware means understanding these issues and educating yourself about what is going on outside of yourself, your home, and your immediate neighborhood. For your teen, it also means realizing there is a world outside the latest video game or most recent post on Instagram.

It isn’t always easy for your child to look beyond the bubble he exists in, though. A variety of things, from the technology that surrounds him to your own protective parenting style, can make it difficult. But with a little guidance from you, your teen can get on track to becoming a global citizen. It will benefit him, and the whole world, in the long run.

Big Kids, Big Ideas

We constantly hear that children are most likely to take risks when they’re in their teens. Sure, this can lead to accidents. But their risk-taking can also be a positive thing, putting them on the path to innovation, says Teodora Pavkovic, a parenting coach with a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

The teenage years are the “most creative period of our lives,” Pavkovic says. “I think if we harness that teenage brain energy that they have, it can really make a big change for the world…[Teens] are just naturally very inquisitive, innovative. They have ideas all of the time. They want to try things out. I think they can probably help us figure things out more than we can do on our own.”

The teenage years are also a time of self-exploration, and being world-aware aids a teen in figuring out her own identity, says 38

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Sophie Stoyadinovich, M.D., a life coach at Nobel Coaching, an online coaching and tutoring platform. Your teen should have as much information as possible to see where her particular interests lie and what kinds of problems she may like to solve. In fact, being world-aware might completely alter her direction in life.

What’s Blocking Your Teen’s Worldview?

While it’s only natural to feel protective of your child, being a helicopter parent can cause more harm than good. “[Kids] could get so comfortable that they become fearful of doing anything outside of their comfort zone, or you will have the flip side when they become very rebellious at some point, and you don’t want either one,” Pavkovic says.

Technology can act as the other main roadblock that keeps children from being world-aware, she adds. While our devices give us access to almost any information we may need, a passive use of technology (such as scrolling through social media) has the potential to draw people into themselves in a negative way, she explains.

Along with this comes a lack of critical-thinking skills. “We take our view of the world from the media, from the news...and from the things that elicit the click response,” says Andrew Sachs, CEO of Nobel Coaching. “That is a… severely distorted version.”

Instead, parents should teach children of all ages to have a critical eye toward the information they take in. “They will be on social media. They will read things and they will see things on TV. I think it is always good to keep that conversation going about what they think, why they think so, how accurate they think it is, and whether they have any other sources for that,” Stoyadinovich says.

Teaching Your Child to Think Global

While your child can grow up to be world-aware on his own, this is rarely the case. We humans have an instinctive tribal nature.

While this tribalism served a great purpose when humans were pack animals, now it is simply a fear that holds us back from interacting with people and places that are different, Sachs explains. It takes a team of parents and teachers to coax a child into becoming more world-aware. Try these steps: Start simple. Talk about current events around the dinner table.

These stress-free, no-pressure conversations foster an environment in which your child can speak her mind. Listen to what she is passionate about and try to incorporate that into the conversations.

Pair your child with a pal from another place. When your teen tries to learn a language, connect her with a student in another country who speaks the language fluently. In the process of helping each other learn, they will hear about each other’s daily life. Even if it’s only an online call or chat, it is an immersive experience.

Volunteer. It’s an easy yet effective way to get your child involved with the surrounding community, explains Zelda Warner, president of the Volunteer Referral Center. And it’s a two-way street: As your child helps someone, that person simultaneously impacts his life by opening his eyes and allowing him to see the world through a new lens. He will learn to appreciate those differences, and also see how lucky he is to live the life he leads.

Travel. If you can, take a family vacation to another country or give your child the opportunity to participate in a studentexchange program. And do so as soon as you are able; the sooner you travel, the earlier your child’s brain begins to expand, Sachs says. “They are able to see the world for what it is, and they are not constrained by the little bubble. A lot of us exist in a bubble,” he explains. “Having that kind of opportunity to connect with real people I think can drastically change your view on the countries they are from and the rest of the world.”

Likewise, even short cruises or camps expose children to others from around the country, or possibly the world, who will share experiences and stories. Dan Appleman, author of Developing Teen Leadership, suggests enrolling your child in a summer camp outside of her comfort zone. Send an athlete to theater camp or a

musician to art camp. Send your teen to an overnight camp farther from home. These small changes will allow your child to meet peers with different backgrounds and experiences.

Take a cultural field trip to NYC. Not up for international travel right now? You don’t have to venture far from home to help your child become more world-aware. Luckily, here in the New York area, we have the luxury of being surrounded by many different cultures and people from diverse backgrounds. A train ride will take you to Chinatown with Little Italy one block away. Talk to your child about these cultures and eat at authentic restaurants. You can also take him to one of the many museums around New York.

No matter what you do, this engaging experience will ignite his brain and get him thinking outside of his home.

Model world-aware behaviors. Ultimately, remember your children are both mirrors and sponges, Pavkovic says—they reflect your behavior and absorb lessons from your actions. Whether you want your kids to use technology less, spend more time outdoors, or speak more kindly, you must do the same.

Appleman seconds this sentiment, recalling parents he knows who bring their children to protests. “Have them be world-aware and have them involved in your life. Yes, there are other things one can do in providing guidance, but there is nothing like setting an example,” he says.

This being said, “we need to take into account that the older your child is, the less they are under your influence. If they are seven, yes, obviously you are their greatest role model and you are the best,” Stoyadinovich says. “But as they grow older, their peers become that for them…Your direct influence, I think, at that point gets a little bit smaller and you need to lean more toward consulting with them and providing them with opportunities rather than instructing them and pushing them to do something.”

Look at what the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School have done in Parkland, FL to raise awareness of gun violence.

When one teen is world-aware and a leader, others will follow. In that case, millions from all over the world already have. At this rate, worldaware teens will be the ones to create a world-aware society.

Allison Ingrum, a former NYMP editorial intern, is a junior at Syracuse University.

From our sponsors: The mission of Smile More Kidz and Smile More Dentistry is to support families and the surrounding community in their goal in raising happy, healthy children who are cavity free. We know how important it is for a family to choose the right dentists that are not only clinically skilled, but care about every family member. We make it convenient for the whole family to get all dental needs met under one roof with a pediatric dentist, orthodontist, cosmetic dentists, and all specialties needed for adult dentistry.

Offices in Tappan, NY (845-359-1763) and Bergenfield, NJ (201-384-2425). Visit smilemoredentist.com.

ter

en Wish For Child Learning C A safe, nurturing, Christian-based environment where learning is fun!

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Meet the

Health Care Professional Dental Wellness of Suffern Sherri Alpert, D.D.S. 2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern 845-918-1801 dentalwellnessofsuffern.com dentalwellness@optonline.net

Kastin Orthodontics 6 Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-354-7233 kastinorthodontics.com drkastin09@yahoo.com

Marita Smith, D.D.S. Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-414-9626 smithslittlesmiles.com drsmith@smithslittlesmiles.com

Tenafly Pediatrics 74 Pascack Road, Park Ridge, NJ 201-326-7120 Offices also in Tenafly, Fort Lee, Clifton, Paramus, and Oakland, NJ tenaflypediatrics.com

Sachdev Family Orthodontics 124 E. Ramapo Road, Suite 2, Garnerville 845-786-7736 sfojustsmile.com sfojustsmile@gmail.com Facebook.com/sachdevfamilyorthodontics Instagram: @sachdevfamilyorthodontics

Crystal Run 2 Centerock Road, West Nyack 845-348-1100 crystalrunhealthcare.com

Dr. Alpert is excited to offer drill-free, needle-free dentistry with the Solea CO2 Laser. Her practice offers comfortable cosmetic dentistry for the entire family including implants and full mouth reconstruction if necessary. Dental Wellness of Suffern provides natural, effective, quality dental care to make your visit as enjoyable, comfortable, and relaxing as possible. A parent herself, Dr. Alpert enjoys working with children who are apprehensive about the dentist, creating a fun environment with magic tricks, a wall mural, and a Find the Dental Helpers game.

Dr. Marita Smith is a board-certified pediatric dentist dedicated to providing excellent dental care for children from infancy through adolescence in a warm and friendly environment. As a mother of two, Dr. Smith knows how important it is for children to be comfortable and stress-free during their dental visits. Dr. Smith places great focus on prevention and her goal is to keep your child’s smile healthy! Most insurances accepted. Evening and Saturday hours and 24-hour emergency service available. Se habla Español.

At Sachdev Family Orthodontics, we provide individualized braces and Invisalign treatment to kids and adults. Dr. Ameeta Sachdev has been in the dental field for two decades with dual dental degrees, from India and the U.S. She teaches orthodontics at St. Barnabas Hospital, Bronx. She pays attention to detail, whether it is designing the state-of-the-art office herself or perfecting your smile. Being committed to serve, she is an active supporter of community events and local art. Free consults, most insurance accepted, and evening and Saturday hours and 24-hour emergency service available.

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December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

With 17 years of orthodontic experience, Dr. Brett Kastin prides his practice on conservative early treatment and cost-free childhood dental monitoring, enabling the most effective treatment possible, as well as being a knowledgeable, compassionate clinician and friend. He utilizes state-of-the-art materials and customized treatment. Dr. Kastin is a certified Invisalign® provider, has been president of the Rockland County Dental Society since 2006, and was voted Rockland’s “Top Orthodontist” by the dentists of Rockland County for the past 10 years. Initial exams are complimentary, as are children’s recall appointments.

Dr. David Schaumberger is one of the pediatricians working out of our newly expanded Park Ridge office. As someone who lives nearby, he enjoys working in Northern Bergen and Rockland counties. Dr. Schaumberger completed his pediatric residency from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York and has been working at Tenafly Pediatrics since 2001.

On a personal note, he enjoys ethnic cuisine and spending time with his three children. Tenafly Pediatrics is a recent Angie’s List Winner with offices conveniently located throughout Bergen County.

Crystal Run Healthcare is a premier multispecialty group medical practice with more than 400 providers, offering the convenience of primary care and nearly 50 medical specialties. Our state-of-the-art West Nyack facility offers patients easy access to quality health care with more than 20 medical and surgical specialties, including adolescent medicine, pediatrics, maternal-fetal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, including urogynecology. Our innovative facility boasts an infusion center, urgent care, diagnostic testing services, on-site laboratory services, diagnostic imaging, and women’s imaging. Crystal Run also has offices in Haverstraw, Stony Point, and Suffern.

Bobby Crohn, D.D.S. Monroe Dental Office 400 State Route 17M, Suite 2, Monroe 845-782-0189 monroedentaloffice.com monroedental@optonline.net

Dr. Crohn graduated from SUNY Stony Brook with a degree in biology. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University at Buffalo in 1992, and he completed his general practice residency at Danbury Hospital in 1993. Dr. Crohn has done extensive additional training in implant dentistry including training with Dr. Nick Elian at Vistara Institute, DentalXP Symposiums, and training at Zimmerman Institute. Dr. Crohn is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He offers state-of-the art treatment including on-site cone beam 3-D imaging.

Bear Brook Dental Care Dr. Kiwon Lee, D.D.S. Adult Dentistry & Dental Medicine for Sleep Apnea 305 W. Grand Ave., Suite 100, Montvale, NJ 201-746-9474 bearbrookdentalcare.com; info@bearbrookdentalcare.com

Dr. Kiwon Lee received his D.D.S. degree from Columbia University and completed his residency at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center. Dr. Lee is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

He is also a Diplomate of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.

Dr. Kiwon Lee is well-recognized in the industry as one of the most experienced dental sleep medicine providers, having successfully managed more than 500 obstructive sleep apnea patients during his career and being featured as an expert on “American Health Front” on WCBS-TV, CBS, Channel 2.

Smile More Kidz Meet Your Smile Team 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan 845-367–4866 smilemorekidz.com

A & R Advanced Dental Group, Anna Alekseyeva, D.D.S., Roman Izmailov, D.D.S. 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-364-9400 aradvanceddental.com

At A&R Advanced Dental Group, patient satisfaction and comfort is our No. 1 priority. We are a cutting edge practice that delivers state-of-the-art dental care to our patients. Dr. Roman Izmailov and Dr. Anna Alekseyeva have more than 30 years of experience in all phases of dentistry, including high quality and affordable dental implants, zirconia crowns, porcelain veneers, fixed bridges, root canal treatments, teeth whitening, and composite fillings. Evening appointments are available and we accept most insurances.

Bear Brook Children’s Dental Specialists Dr. Tommy Lee, D.M.D., Pediatric Dentist 305 W. Grand Ave., Suite 100, Montvale, NJ 201-746-9474 bearbrookdentalcare.com info@bearbrookdentalcare.com

Dr. Tommy Lee specializes in pediatric dentistry. He treats patients from infancy to adolescence, including special needs children. Understanding that many dental phobias develop in early childhood, Dr. Lee will take great care to ensure your kids grow up with a positive outlook on oral health. Even the most nervous child will leave with a healthier smile under Dr. Lee’s care. Dr. Lee earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree at Boston University and completed his pediatric dental specialty training at Yale School of Medicine. Most major insurance accepted.

Clemente Orthodontics 603 S. Route 304, New City 845-638-6646 60 W. Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 201-447-2888 clementeorthodontics.com

At Smile More Kidz, we are part of a local tradition of providing your children with the very best that dentistry has to offer in a friendly, comfortable setting. Our entire team understands how children develop and learn and make sure nervous kids feel comfortable and respected. We offer 8am–7pm and Saturday appointments so our patients don’t have to miss school for their care. We believe in building a foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles by making every visit to our office a fun and informative experience.

At Clemente Orthodontics, our patients receive the benefit of experience, quality, and energy that comes with a multigenerational team. Dr. Michael Clemente and his daughters, Dr. Nicole Clemente and Dr. Marissa Clemente, work together seamlessly to care for your orthodontic needs. They run a stateof-the-art practice with digital X-rays, private treatment rooms, impression-free Invisalign, and a highly experienced staff. They are an Invisalign Super Elite Premier provider, offering Invisalign and Invisalign Teen as treatment options.

Consultations are complimentary.

Join

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

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents RocklandParent 41

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT FUDGIE THE CLOWN AND MYSTIQUE THE MAGICIAN Serving Rockland and Bergen counties 201-825-7481 fudgietheclown.com

Invite Fudgie or Mystique to your next party, picnic, or event! A professional family entertainer specializing in magic, face painting, and balloon animals. Ask about midweek special rates. Fully insured.

INFLATABLE PARTY ADVENTURES Serving Rockland, Northern New Jersey, and Westchester, and Nanuet 845-267-2022 inflatablepartyadventures.com

Premier state-of-the-art inflatables and entertainment equipment at a price that can’t be beat. Every rental includes our risk-free rain policy. We specialize in delivering the type of fun guaranteed to make your next event one to be remembered and talked about for years to come.

K & A HOUSE OF BOUNCE PARTY RENTALS 845-825-6617 kahouseofbounce.com

We bring the party to you.”We have one of the largest selections of themed bounce houses along with dry and wet slides, obstacle courses, dunk tanks, and other interactive inflatables as well as cotton candy, popcorn, and additional fun concession foods.

PARTY PACK CREW 917-882-6660 partypackcrew.com

Our fabulous birthday and themed parties include more than just your favorite characters. We also decorate, and entertain your party guests to make your moments of celebration unforgettable!

BIRTHDAY GIFTS ‘TILLY...A DEER’S TALE’ 914-764-5564 tillyadeerstale.com

Tilly...A Deer’s Tale is about a real deer that lives in upstate New York and faces challenges after an accident.

This powerful story is meant to inspire children living with physical challenges or limitations. The book makes a great birthday gift!

TOYRIFFIC2 TOY STORE 1581 Route 202, Pomona 845-362-6053 toyriffic2.com toyriffic2@aol.com

Looking for the perfect birthday gift? Come visit our unique toy store in Pomona. We offer a great selection of Melissa & Doug crafts and many other quality, afford-

42

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

able, educational toys, crafts, games, and puzzles for kids of all ages, both boys and girls.

PARTY PLACES ABRAKADOODLE ART STUDIO FOR KIDS 53 Prospect Place, Hillsdale, NJ 201-383-0027 abrakadoodle.com kroberts@abrakadoodle.com

Paint, slime, and glitter are all the cool things we use at our studio! Abrakadoodle has been serving the community for more than 13 years offering Artie Parties and “No School Workshops” for ages 3 and older.

THE ACADEMY FOR MARTIAL ARTS 8 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-359-4500 theacademyformartialarts.com

A karate party is a great way to enter the world of martial arts. It’s also a great way for experienced students to share the martial arts with friends and family. Spacious, fully-equipped facility, an energetic, cheerful, and professional staff, and martial arts-themed fun and games.

845-623-4975 jillceramics.com jillsceramics@aol.com

We offer a fully-equipped ceramics and plaster studio where children and adults let their creativity run wild.

Parties for kids include paper goods, a painter’s hat for the birthday child signed by his/her friends, and an item for each child to paint.

LAUNCH TRAMPOLINE PARK 260 W. Nyack Road, West Nyack 845-977-0415 launchrockland.com

Launch Trampoline Park is a new family fun park located in West Nyack. This brand new, state-of-the-art facility offers three private party rooms for hosting birthday parties!

NEW CITY BOWL AND BATTING CAGES 90 N. Main St., New City 845-634-4977 newcitybowlandbattingcages.com

We are well known for our great birthday party packages and offer Glow Bowling for our Sunday parties. All parties include bowling, shoe rental, food, paper goods, invitations, set up, and clean up. We do the work, you enjoy the party!

BACH TO ROCK - NANUET 150 E. Route 59, Nanuet 845-215-9536 nanuet.b2rmusic.com nanuet@bachtorock.com

NORTHERN VALLEY DANCE ACADEMY 75 Oak St., Norwood, NJ 201-784-6400 nvdanceacademy.com nvdance@hotmail.com

BOUNCE! TRAMPOLINE SPORTS 612 Corporate Way (off Route 303), Valley Cottage 845-268-4000 facebook.com/bouncetrampolinesports twitter.com/bouncesport bouncevalleycottage.com info@bounceonit.com

PALISADES CLIMB ADVENTURE 4590 Palisades Center Drive, Level 4 of the Palisades Center, West Nyack 845-727-3500 palisadesclimb.com

Bach to Rock offers birthday parties for kids of all ages and adults. Call to find out more about The Rock Birthday Party, Karaoke Birthday Party, and The Rock City Birthday Party!

There is no party place in the tri-state area like Bounce!

Trampoline Sports! Guests jump on more than 10,000-square-feet of trampolines, including trampoline dodge ball, slam-dunk basketball, launching into giant foam pits, and our Bounce! Xtreme Ninja Obstacle Course. Visit website or call for party details.

CHOCOLATIER MATISSE 32 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-365-0285 chocolatiermatisse.com chocolatiermatisse@gmail.com

Chocolatier Birthday Parties are for girls and boys ages 3 and older. Children learn how chocolate is made, and make and decorate a chocolate pizza, balloon bowl filled with dipped items, candy apples, and other hand dipped goodies to take home. You pick what your guests create.

JILL’S CERAMICS 180 Germonds Road, West Nyack

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Here at NVDA, our birthday parties are a blast! With music, dance, and games, guests will leave with big smiles and tired feet. We can choreograph a dance to any favorite song! Call or email today.

Palisades Climb Adventure offers the world’s tallest indoor ropes challenge course with 75 unique challenge elements.

Our Sky Tykes kids’ ropes course is designed for ages 2-7.

Both courses are available for birthday parties. Book your party today!

PARTY ANIMALS 1302 Palisades Center Drive Palisades Mall, 1st floor near Best Buy, West Nyack 914-336-0144 partyanimalsonline.com Whether at our location or yours, Party Animals provides a fun and customized party experience with plush electronic animal rides, bouncy house, arts and crafts, and face painting.

ROCKLAND FENCERS CLUB 40 Lydecker St., Nyack 718-697-1440 rocklandfencersclub.com info@rocklandfencersclub.com

Rockland Fencers Club (RFC) is excited to announce their new Private Fencing Party Package for ages 8-16. No experience required and all necessary equipment included.

ROMP N’ ROLL 28-29 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-580-9065 rompnroll.com; info@rompnroll.com Our awesome parties for kids ages 1-6 include exclusive use of gym, party room, moon bounce, rock wall, monkey bars, and bubble party. plus games, music, and activities!

SKY ZONE ALLENDALE 80 Commerce Drive, Allendale, NJ 201-574-1800 skyzone.com/allendale

Experience “wow”–the weightlessness of bouncing, flipping, and landing into 10,000 foam cubes at Sky Zone indoor trampoline park. Call or check our website for customizable party packages.

SURGE STUDIO 285 N. Route 303 (in Colonial Plaza), Congers 845-589-0990 surgestudioarts.com info@surgestudioarts.com

Let us host a fun and customizable birthday party for your child and their friends at Surge Dance Studio. Parties consist of games, activities, pictures, choreography to the birthday guest’s favorite song, and, of course, pizza and cake!

TUMBLE-BEE GYMNASTICS AND FITNESS 401 Market St., Nanuet Mall South, Nanuet 845-623-2553 tumble-beegymnastics.com

Our bright, colorful facility is the perfect place for your child’s private birthday party (ages 1-12). We’ll provide two wonderful, exciting, and energetic party instructors. Also, free

invitations, paper products, and utensils. The birthday child receives a free gift and balloons.

Reserve in advance. They book quickly!

VICKI’S DANCE STUDIO AND KREATIVE KIDS 61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202 vickistudio.com

We offer a variety of birthday parties for boys and girls of all ages. Great party theme options include Hip-Hop Dance Party & Games Mix, Jumping Gymnastics, Disney Dance Mix, and Dress-up Princess Party!

VISION SPORTS CLUB Youth Fit Zone 37 W. Jefferson Ave., Pearl River 845-517-1427 visionsportsclub.com

Our 1½ hour parties include one hour of games and activities of your choice in our 7000-square-foot Sports Zone. The fun continues in our private party room with pizza, drinks, and birthday cake.

WEST ROCK INDOOR SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX 21 Pralle Lane, Nanuet 845-623-3636 westrockindoor.com

West Rock offers the ultimate place to hold your birthday party. Our unique and versatile facility boasts 40-foot ceilings, 26,000-squarefeet of turf, two regulation-size basketball courts, six Har-Tru tennis courts, indoor bouncers, and private party room.

Fabulous Breakfast with Santa Fundraiser Event!

The Rockland All Star Senior Dance Team Presented by Vicki’s Dance Studio When: SUNDAY DECEMBER 2, 2018 Where: Casa Mia Manor House 577 Route 303, Blauvelt Time: 8:30am – 10:00am Seating OR 11:00am – 12:30pm Seating Cost: $25.00 per person (Under 2 FREE) Must RSVP in advance: Please call 845-634-2202 for tickets Includes; Buffet Breakfast, Children’s Activities, Crafts by Day Camp In The Park, Photo with Santa, Sing-a-longs, Games, Interactive Entertainment with Vicki’s Dance Studio’s Rockland All Star Senior Dance Team, AND MORE! ALL PROCEEDS GO TO THE ROCKLAND ALL STAR SENIOR DANCE TEAM

You don’t have to deal with your child’s depression, anxiety, stress, suicidal thoughts or drug addiction alone.

We’re here to help 24/7 free of charge.

BHRT

Don’t Wait.

Get Help.

Behavioral Health Response Team

24 Hour Hotline: 845-517-0400

www.RocklandHelp.org

Don’t Wait. Get Help.

Division of Rockland Paramedic Services | Raymond Florida, Executive Director | Grant funded by Rockland County

YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY OF NEW CITY 59 S. Main St., New City 845-638-0601 newcityny.youngchefsacademy.com newcityny@youngchefsacademy.com

Gym, Art, & Music for Kids 5 & Under

Birthday party options include “Make Your Own Pizza” or “Little Princess Tea” (ages 4 and older), “Pasta Party” (make your own pasta and sauce from scratch), or “Fun-todo Fondue” with cheese and chocolate for dipping (ages 8 and older).

CALL TO GET YOUR FREE CLASS (845) 580-9065 ● rompnroll.com

Academic Enrichment and Educational Services College Nannies+Sitters+Tutors

845-213-4760 collegesitters.com newcityny@collegesitters.com College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors is the nation’s most respected, complete, and professional resource helping busy families raise smart, confident, well-adjusted kids. Since 2001 we’ve built local professional teams across the country helping hundreds of busy parents carve out time for themselves with a sitter, part-time or full-time nanny, or get their college bound student the tutoring they need to succeed. If you’d like to learn more about us, or if you’re interested in becoming a College Sitter, Nanny, or Tutor visit our website or call us at 845-213-4760.

Occupational Therapy for Toddlers to Teens!

SPOTS provides Occupational Therapy evaluations, individual and group therapy services. We are committed to improving: • Sensory Processing Skills New • Fine and Gross Motor Skill Development Orangeburg • Handwriting Remediation Location • Social Skills • Attention and Self-Regulation Skills Call us today for a complimentary phone consultation to see how occupational therapy can help your child.

S P

T S

30 Ramland Road Orangeburg, NY 10962 845-848-2228 | www.SPOTSOT.com RocklandParent 43

PARTY PLANNER

To advertise: 845-848-8021 or nympads@davlermedia.com

Invite Fudgie or Mystique to your next party!

FUDGIE

MYSTIQUE

Magic - Face Balloon Animals Magic - FacePainting Painting –– Balloon Animals Birthdays Picnics Birthdays–– Camps Camps ––Picnics

Special Reduced Rates Mon – Thurs!

201-825-7481 www.fudgietheclown.com Fully Insured

PARTY & CREATIVE FUN SPECIALISTS!

NEED to plan the perfect party?

Custom, themed parties & events for Kids & Adults! � Character Rentals � Craft Workshops � Balloon Décor • Fundraisers � Party Decorations • Face Painting

Party Pack Crew | 917-882-6660 PARTYPACKCREW.COM

FIND venues, entertainers, suppliers,

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

NYMetroParents.com

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fall activities for families?

Subscribe to our newsletter for the best places to pick apples and pumpkins, Halloween events for kids, and more in your inbox!

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER 44

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Looking for the perfect birthday gift?

Come visit our Unique Toy Boutique!

Mention this ad for 15% OFF!

We offer over 7,000 games, toys, crafts, puzzles, gadgets and NEW specialty balloons.

1581 Route 202 • Pomona, NY

845-362-6053

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

Lindgren School & Camp................................................17

play spaces

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................7

Wish For Child Childcare & Learning Center .................39

Launch Trampoline Park ................................................11

birthday / party services Academy for Martial Arts................................................13 Jill’s Ceramics ................................................................37 Launch Trampoline Park ................................................11 Palisades Climb Adventure ..............................................7 Rockland Parent Party Planner......................................44 Romp n’ Roll - Orangeburg ............................................43 Sky Zone - Allendale.........................................................9

family entertainment / events / outings ArtsRock of Rockland ....................................................13

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio ............................43

restaurant / food services

Nyack Chamber of Commerce ........................................2

Palisades Center .............................................................3

NYBG - Train Show..........................................................5 Palisades Center .............................................................3

retail

Palisades Climb Adventure ..............................................7

European Wax Center .....................................................5

fitness

West Rock Indoor Sports Complex................................17

Academy for Martial Arts................................................13

Academy for Martial Arts................................................13 Brilliant Minds Daycare & Learning Center.....................37

Sky Zone - Allendale.........................................................9

Coupe Theatre Studio ...................................................11

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................7

camps

Romp n’ Roll - Orangeburg ............................................43

Launch Trampoline Park ................................................11

Lindgren School & Camp................................................17 Palisades Center .............................................................3 Tilly...A Deer’s Tale.........................................................37

Sky Zone - Allendale.........................................................9 Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................7

special events ArtsRock of Rockland ....................................................13

Camp Ramaquois ............................................................9

health

Lindgren School & Camp................................................17

Bear Brook Dental Care ..........................................17, 41

West Rock Indoor Sports Complex................................17

Clemente Orthodontics ..................................................41 Crystal Run Healthcare............................................40, 48

child care / day care

Dental Wellness of Suffern.................................11, 40, 41

Brilliant Minds Daycare & Learning Center.....................37

Kastin & Newman Orthodontics......................................40

COLLEGE nannies+sitters+tutors .................................17

Rockland Behavioral Health ..........................................43

Mommybites...................................................................13

Sachdev Family Orthodontics.....................................9, 40

Wish For Child Childcare & Learning Center .................39

Smile More Dentistry ...............................................25, 41

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio ............................43 Lindgren School & Camp................................................17 Nyack Chamber of Commerce ........................................2 NYBG - Train Show..........................................................5

special needs Spots OT........................................................................43 Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................7

Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry...................35, 40

classes

Spots OT........................................................................43

sports

Jill’s Ceramics ................................................................37

Tenafly Pediatrics ..........................................................40

Academy for Martial Arts................................................13

Romp n’ Roll - Orangeburg ............................................43

Valley Pediatrics.............................................................39

Palisades Climb Adventure ..............................................7

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics..................................................7

West Rock Indoor Sports Complex................................17

home services dance

HUSH Electrical Corp. ...................................................11

Coupe Theatre Studio ...................................................11

Suez.................................................................................9

Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio ............................43

theater HPAL - Rockland Theatre Company ..............................15

performing arts / acting education

Coupe Theatre Studio ...................................................11

tutors

Brilliant Minds Daycare & Learning Center.....................37

HPAL - Rockland Theatre Company ..............................15

COLLEGE nannies+sitters+tutors .................................17

RocklandParent 45

raising kids parenting humor

How to Un-Fun the Holidays in 8 Easy Steps It’s easy to suck the joy right out of the holiday season, especially when you have kids—just follow this guide. If, by some chance, that’s not what you want to do, we have other recommendations for you!

1. Insist on getting the perfect photo for your annual holiday card.

Dress up everyone in their finest clothes and keep stage-directing them (“a little to the left…a little to the right”) until their smiles are as frozen as a snowman’s.

Instead: Go for a shot that’s casual or silly—it’s what life is really like with kids.

2. Knock yourself out trying to find this season’s hottest overpriced toy, even if your child didn’t ask for it. After all, isn’t that what caring parents do?

Instead: Have your child help you pick out a toy for Toys for Tots or another organization that brings joy to children in need.

Show her that it’s what caring families do.

3. Write a glowing holiday letter to your family and friends, then spend the rest of the season wishing your life were half as awesome as you made it sound.

Instead: Be honest about some of the struggles you’ve faced, like losing your battle with the scale or struggling to make your kids understand that “no means no.” People will appreciate your honesty 4. Scurry around so much getting ready for the holidays that you spend less time with your kids than you want to.

46

December 2018 | nymetroparents.com

By Deborah Skolnik

Instead: Remember to slow down and enjoy the season together. Take an evening to drive around and admire the holiday lights, or go skating one afternoon. Your child may remember those moments more than all the fancy presents that come his way.

5. Decorate your home with lots of “don’t-touch” holiday objects, then get upset when your child breaks one (or worse, get scared when he ends up hurting himself).

Instead: Learn how to keep your home festive, but hazard free, by reading “13 Ways to Stay Safe This Holiday Season” on p. 34.

6. Drag your children to a nighttime holiday religious service, then feel embarrassed when they can’t keep it together.

Instead: Look for a “family” service, where kids are welcome and a certain amount of squirminess is permitted.

7. Pressure your kids to give hugs and kisses to family friends and relatives they barely know.

Instead: Remember that kids, like adults, have the right to decide whom they want to be cozy with. If your child doesn’t feel like it, ask him to give a simple wave or say a friendly hello. Really young kids may not even be able to manage that much, but it’s okay; the adults around them will almost certainly understand.

8. Go into debt making this “the best holiday ever.”

Instead: Create a reasonable budget and stick to it. You’ll start the new year feeling refreshed—not impoverished.

We've got everything for a…

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! NYMetroParents.com is parents' Party Central—one-stop shopping for the best in: H Party Places (for the trendiest, newest, or most classic locale) H Entertainers (clowns, balloon twisting, magicians, spa parties & so much more!)

H Gift-Giving (from charitable ideas to the best presents for every age) H At-Home Party Themes (think pirates, princesses, superheroes, Harry Potter…)

H Planning Help H Tips & Tricks from the Pros (…and parents who’ve been there!)

Bergen•RocklandParent NORTH

HILLSDALE • MONTVALE

SEPTEMBER 2012

NORTHVALE • NORWOOD • OLD TAPPAN • PARK RIDGE • RAMSEY • RIDGEWOOD • SADDLE RIVER/UPPER SADDLE RIVER • WALDWICK • WESTWOOD • WYCKOFF

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

LongIslandParent Parent SPETEMBER 2012

Class Is In!

After-School Activities

✓ ❑ ✓ ❑

Resource Guide

✓ ❑ ✓ ❑

SLOW DOWN!

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Back-to-School Resource Guide Pack a Smarter Lunch Ease the Morning Rush Advocate for Your Twins

How to Manage Kids’ Schedules

What Makes a Good Mentor?

+ 174 Family

+ 130 Family

(see our calendar, p. 26)

(see our calendar, p. 32)

Events

Events

Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

Where-To Guide: Berry Picking

•

Dinosaur Fun

Where-To Guide: Apple Picking • Outing: New York Hall of Science

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

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URGENT CARE IS OPEN CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S!

Beena Mathaikutty, MD Urgent Care Board Certified: Emergency Medicine Visit us in West Nyack | 2 Centerock Road

URGENT CARE for the whole family.

When life’s unexpected accidents and illness happen, rest assured that Crystal Run is available for you and your family. Open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, including holidays, Crystal Run Urgent Care offers convenient walk-in and extended-hour access to medical care for non-life-threatening concerns, treating everything from strains, sprains and breaks, to fever, coughs and colds.

West Nyack | 2 Centerock Road CrystalRunHealthcare.com/UrgentCare #WeAreCrystalRun

• • • •

Walk-in Medical Care Open 7/365 Physician-Staffed with Access to 40+ Specialties Pediatricians Available for Children & Adolescents Onsite Labs & Diagnostic Imaging including MRI, CT, X-Ray, and Ultrasound

Not a patient? Not a problem! You’re just as welcome to walk in!

Urgent Care Open 7/365 | Hours: Monday-Saturday 8AM-8PM, Sunday 8AM-6PM | Onsite Diagnostic Imaging Medicaid Managed Care & most commercial insurance plans accepted. Se habla Español. Easy access via public transportation.

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