Rockland Parent December 2019

Rockland Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM DECEMBER 2019

Superb Staycations Plus, 4 seasonal Rockland favorites you don’t want to miss!

It’s Okay to Regift 6 Easy Tips for Decluttering Success HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

RocklandParent

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When you need immediate medical care for yourself or your family, you shouldn’t have to choose between quality or convenience. At Crystal Run Urgent Care, you’ll receive high quality care from top-rated providers who treat everything from strains, sprains and breaks, to fevers, coughs and colds. We offer easy access to accredited walk-in and extended-hour medical care, in five convenient locations, plus diagnostic imaging and labs onsite — so you’ll never feel like your sacrificing quality for convenience. The difference is clear, come see for yourself.

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11/4/19 1:03 PM

Thinking of changing schools?

Consider a Catholic education for your child!

Are you moving to a new home? Interested in helping your child succeed academically in a safe, structured learning environment?

If so, now is a good time to invest in a Catholic education. Catholic schools provide a curriculum based on faith, respect, courtesy and service to others; and our Math/ELA proficiency test scores have outpaced New York public schools for each of the last five years.

Online admissions for 2020-21 open on December 4! Apply before April 15, 2020, and save $100/child in registration fees! Or book a Touring Tuesday date or personal tour at any of these Rockland schools:

SACRED HEART SCHOOL 60 Washington Avenue, Suffern

ST. MARGARET SCHOOL 34 North Magnolia Street, Pearl River

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL 34 West Nyack Road, Nanuet

ST. PAUL SCHOOL 365 Kings Highway, Valley Cottage

ST. GREGORY BARBARIGO SCHOOL 29 Cinder Road, Garnerville

Catholic Schools Online Admissions Open Now! Apply at CatholicSchoolsNY.org/apply or over the phone at (646) 794-2885

RocklandParent

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contents table of

december 2019

10 19 seasonal fun

30

14 Spectacular Staycations 18 Holiday Fun in NYC

Regift Without Regret

The do’s and don’ts of courteous regifting

Family Activities Calendar

Find something to do every day this month in Rockland County

Get Insured

How to choose and sign up for an insurance plan if your company doesn’t offer one

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 How to Be a Grinch 10 Regift Without Regret 12 The Best Back-up Sitter Options 32 Sick Day Rx 34 Decoding Infant Reflexes 36 Don’t Let Go—Just Yet 40 Meet the Health Care Professional 42 Party Central 43 Education Directory, Professional Services 45 Advertisers’ Index 46 Trip of a Lifetime

19 Family Activities Calendar

16 Declutter Your Home 30 Get Insured 38 Use it or Lose it

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 10 It’s Okay to Regift 14 Superb Staycations 16 6 Easy Tips for Decluttering Success facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

Rain Date Dec. 8

Entertainment · Refreshments · Tree Lighting

Indoor Holiday

Street Fair

Sunday, December 8th Hours: 10-5

GREAT NEW LOCATION!

@ the Westgate Inn 26 Route 59, Nyack, NY

Fabulous vendors for all your holiday shopping under one roof.

Featuring chocolate, handmade soaps, jewelry, handmade gifts, clothing, home decor, sweets, art and much more!

• • • •

Free parking Cash bar Cafe/restaurant open Live music

8 AM - 2 PM

INDOORS AT NYACK CENTER: JANUARY 3!

RocklandParent

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raising kids editor’s note

DECEMBER 2019 • Vol.13 • No.3

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

Happy Holidays!

N

o matter which holiday you celebrate this month, the end of the year is typically the time many families have travel plans—to visit family, escape the cold for a week, or even just a few days away to take advantage of kids’ time off from school. But if holiday travel isn’t on your calendar yet, we’ve got just the thing for you: six out-of-the-box staycation ideas in Manhattan, plus our top picks for seasonal fun if you want to stay local (p. 14).

Of course, there’s always the trusty calendar (p. 19), chock-full of ideas for every day of the month to keep your kids active, entertained, and having a blast for the rest of 2019!

Speaking of holidays, have you ever been given a gift that, while thoughtful, wasn’t your style? Chances are you’ll get at least one more this year. Not to worry!

It’s 100-percent acceptable to regift any presents you receive, says Lizzie Post, greatgreat-granddaughter of etiquette guru Emily Post. Just make sure you read Lizzie’s do’s and don’ts of regifting first (p. 10)!

And while we’re thinking about gifts (and the season’s hottest toys your kids are begging for)…it might be time to purge the toy box and get rid of any toys your child has outgrown. Read expert organizers’ tips for decluttering your home on p. 16. This might not be the highlight of your holiday vacation, but it will benefit your family in the long run.

Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy, and fruitful holiday season!

Katelin Walling Editorial Director

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

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

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

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

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

PRODUCTION

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

Our Editors Find You the Best Events!

When it comes to finding weekend fun with your kids, we make it easy for you! Our editors spend hours scouring the community for the best events happening. And every Thursday, you’ll receive a curated list of the best of what’s happening that weekend in Rockland—from sports and theater to festivals and petting zoos.

Sign up today at nymetroparents.com/newsletter!

MARKETING

ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Anastasiya Borunova

FINANCE

CREDIT MANAGERS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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

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

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.PALISADESCENTER.COM RocklandParent

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raising kids

Humor

How to Be a Grinch

››

Don’t put the ho-ho-hum in the holiday season! By Deborah Skolnik

F

rom taking the perfect family photo for your holiday cards to decorating your house so it’s picture-perfect and scurrying around finding the must-haves on your children’s gift wish lists, it’s easy to suck the joy right out of the holiday season. If, by some chance, you’d rather have a holiday season full of cheer where everyone is happy, we have recommendations for you!

Here’s how to put the bah-humbug in the holidays—or not: 1. Insist on getting the perfect photo for your annual holiday card. Dress up everyone in their finest clothes and keep stagedirecting 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.

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.

Instead: Slow down and enjoy the season together. Take an evening to drive around and admire the holiday lights or go iceskating one afternoon.

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.

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.

Deborah Skolnik lives in Westchester with her husband and two daughters, and enjoys writing, cooking, and gardening.

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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10/23/19 5:58 PM

raising kids in the know

Regift Without Regret

I

s it rude to regift? Not at all, says Lizzie Post, great-great-granddaughter of the legendary etiquette guru Emily Post, author of numerous proper-behavior books, and co-host of the Awesome Etiquette podcast. Post says she prefers to be open and honest when she regifts. She once regifted a bracelet from an old boyfriend to her cousin on her 21st birthday. “I told her that I was given the bracelet by someone who really loved me and that I thought she would appreciate it, and she was thrilled,” Post says.

“It became a piece that meant something to her and that I felt good about letting go of because I let her know the history.”

But even if you want your gift’s origin to remain a secret, keeping useful items in circulation is not only good for the planet, but can make others happy. Here are Post’s do’s and don’ts for courteous regifting.

Use Original Packaging

The item shouldn’t look like it’s been open, tested, or used. If you’re not telling recipient it’s a regifted item, then it really has to look brand-new. Reminder for gift bags: Remove the tag that’s inscribed to you.

Don’t Regift Personalized Items

It’s hard to believe, but Post says people call into the podcast who have received (and given) gifts with engravings meant for someone

›› By Jaimie Seaton

else, including a wedding date or inscription. Needless to say, this is not acceptable. Unless the new recipient has the exact same wedding date, keep the gift.

Let Time Pass Before Regifting

If you’re choosing to keep your regifting a secret, Post says you need to be 99-percent sure the person you’re giving it to and the person who gave it to you aren’t going to find out. Let some time lapse before immediately regifting the item—the amount of time, according to Post, is a personal decision and calls for good judgement.

Don’t Regift Unique or Handmade Items

If someone paints you a painting or gives you a particularly unique or memorable gift (such as an Octopus planter), there’s no way to regift these items within your family or circle of friends. Avoid hurt feelings and keep the gifts or regift to a friend or relative who will never cross paths with the original giver.

Be Thoughtful About Regifting

Only regift when you think the item will benefit the person receiving it. In other words, don’t thoughtlessly regift things simply to get rid of them or save money. If it’s not a good match, sell or donate the item, Post advises.

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

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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raising kids child care

Backup Sitter Options ›› Courtesy Mommybites

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Shop for gifts crafted by 25+ local artisans. Jewelry, handmade knits, chocolates, baked bread, local honey, and more. Plus, enjoy a variety of food trucks, local brews,and libations!

W

hile employing a nanny can be a more flexible arrangement than other child care options, you’ll need a plan B. Nannies get sick, go on vacation, and have car, family, household emergencies like anyone else. Save yourself last-minute stress by thinking ahead. Here are smart back-up plans to consider.

Drop-In Centers

Some child care centers offer an occasional drop-in option for families whose kids don’t normally attend. Typically, no advance notice is required, but you have to be pre-registered. Check with some of your local child care centers to see which ones may offer this arrangement. Ask whether the fee is based on a membership, where you can drop in up to a certain number of times in a year, or if you only pay for the days you actually use the service.

Want to know the Best Activities for Families?

Subscribe to our family activity email newsletter.

Want to know the Best Activities for Families?

Another Nanny

Do you have friends who employ a nanny for their children? If so, see if that nanny might be willing to watch your kids on the days yours is unavailable. Your nanny can then return the favor.

Of course, you check with your nanny to make sure she’d be okay with this—and talk to your friend—before you’re in a jam.

Nanny Shares

Find out if you can jointo another family’s nanny share, a situation Subscribe where two or more families share a nanny.

our family activity emailto say, and should not be taken for grantThey’re busy too, needless ed. But that said, if you have a close friend nearby who stays home newsletter.

Stay-at-Home Parents

with her kids, she’d probably be willing to help you out. Again, you’ll want to broach the subject well before your hour of need.

NYMetroParents.com/register

A Work-from-Home Clearance

If none of these options pan out, and the type of job you have allows for it, you could plan to work from home on those days when your nanny can’t make it. Discuss this with your boss before the time comes.

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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RocklandParent 13

Mark Weinberg

The FAO Schwarz Holiday Suite at Conrad New York Midtown is decked out in the store’s favorite toys for the kids (and kids at heart) to play with.

Spectacular Staycations 6 unique holiday adventures that will make you glad you stayed local ‘

T

››

By Lambeth Hochwald

is the season to stay in town! That’s because New York City has some of the best staycation options—and we don’t mean a visit to the Met or a chilly walk through Central Park. In fact, once we started thinking outside the box, we discovered some extraordinary and innovative ways to spend your holiday.

in Hudson Yards, the Crowne Plaza HY36’s Hibernation Vacation Suite is stocked with cozy sleeping bags and plush throw blankets.

Artificial candles, crackling fireplace sounds, and a mini chocolate fountain for deconstructed s’mores bring elements of camping into your room.

A Tween’s Dream Come True

For the Young (and Young at Heart)

Don’t just go to the theater. Book a night at the Row NYC hotel, just steps away from some of the biggest shows including The Lion King, which is just a block away. This year Row NYC is offering the Bloomingdale’s Shop & Stay package, which includes exclusive in-store savings, a branded duffle bag, and a $50 gift card to the store. For the perfect pre-theater or post-shopping treat, stop by City Kitchen, a food hall located right off Row NYC’s lobby, for snacks such as Dough’s famous doughnuts.

Glamp in the City

It may be too cold for camping, but several hotels are bringing the experience inside. The JW Marriott Essex House New York, just a stone’s throw from the Wollman Rink at Central Park, sets up custom camper tents in family-sized luxury suites. Further downtown

At the new Conrad New York Midtown, the first-ever FAO Schwarz Holiday Suite comes decorated with the iconic store’s favorites for the season—including a mini gourmet kitchen, ride-on train tracks, and DJ turntables. Suite guests also get a private shopping spree and tour of the store by an FAO Schwarz toy soldier.

A Flavor for All Taste Buds

During an invigorating walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, it helps to know a cozy food hall awaits on the other side. That place is Dumbo’s Time Out Market New York, which serves Juliana’s Pizza (without the wait), and the now-legendary blueberry pancakes courtesy of Clinton Street Baking Co., alongside views of the East River waterfront and lower Manhattan skyline. Before you eat, take a spin on nearby Jane’s Carousel—which is not just for kids.

Courtesy Trailside Museums & Zoo

Courtesy Madame Tussauds New York

Spend an afternoon at Madame Tussauds New York, where you can snap Insta-worthy pics of your kids with their favorite celebrities, comic heroes, and more—including Taylor Swift and the Hulk.

Locals as Tourists

Just blocks away from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, The Knickerbocker, aka The Knick, is a boutique hotel that feels like an oasis even though it’s in busy Times Square. Relax over a meal at Charlie Palmer at The Knick, which offers a kids’ menu that’s as varied as it is healthy. (Salmon and veggies on a kids’ menu? Now we’re talking.) Plus, it’s steps away from popular destinations, such as Madame Tussauds, National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Don’t forget to ask about the hotel’s holiday partnership with Shoott—which is offering an hourlong professional photoshoot to commemorate your special staycation. It could yield the perfect picture for next year’s holiday card.

Sweet Indulgence

There’s a new shake in town this holiday season, and you can find it at Black Tap 35th, the restaurant’s new flagship location in Herald Square. The Holiday Shake (available Dec. 1-31) is a cheesecake-flavored milkshake with a vanilla-frosted rim and white, gold, and silver sprinkles. As if that weren’t decadent enough—it’s topped with a slice of white-chocolate, macadamia-nut cheesecake, whipped cream, and a cherry. The kids will go bananas watching this and other shakes come to life at the Black Tap’s CrazyShake Bar.

Courtesy Black Tap

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

Stop by Trailside Museums & Zoo on Dec. 22 to make holiday treats for the black bears.

TRADITIONAL TREATS IN ROCKLAND You won’t feel like a tourist with seasonal activities at these local destinations.

Shopping, and Santa, and Reindeer, Oh My!

Take the kids to Orangeburg’s Christmas Wonderland, a twoday festival that features a vendor market (for a head start on stocking stuffers), Santa and Mrs. Claus, a light display, reindeer, and, for when all that is said and done, a winter beer garden (Dec. 7-8).

Make Treats for the Bears

Going to the zoo isn’t just a warm-weather activity! Stop by Trailside Museums & Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park for a Beary Merry Holiday. First, you’ll make tasty treats for the black bears and wrap them in boxes, then you get to watch as the bears unwrap their gifts and enjoy their treats (Dec. 22, 10:30am).

Dance with the Sugar Plum Fairy

Join Clara and her Nutcracker as they battle the Mouse King and journey through the Snow Forest to the Land of the Sweets. The Rockland Youth Dance Ensemble in Suffern has been presenting this holiday classic for 40 years, and this year you can see it Dec. 7-15 at Rockland Community College’s Cultural Arts Theater.

A Holiday Bricktacular Celebration

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, in nearby Yonkers, is transforming into a winter wonderland this season to celebrate the Holiday Bricktacular. The month-long event features themed building workshops, magical LEGO creations, and a visit with LEGO Santa! Plus, MINILAND will be transformed into a wintery wonderland, and kids can enjoy a scavenger hunt to spot new wonders.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a decadent milkshake from Black Tap 35th, like the seasonal Holiday Shake.

RocklandParent 15

family life home

By having your whole family sort through their belongings and deciding what to get rid of, you all are making room for new clothes, books, toys, and more— and giving new life to your old items.

Declutter Your Home

››

Simple strategies that will make a big difference By Madeleine Burry

P

iles of papers, overstuffed closets, and toys scattered everywhere. Does this sound familiar? Clutter can seem like an unavoidable, but essentially harmless, way of life, particularly for families in tight quarters. But chaos and disorganization can have a negative impact, both physically and mentally.

“As the clutter piles up, so do the feelings of anxiety,” says Elsa Elbert, professional organizer and owner of the Los Angeles-based personal organizing company Composed Living.

And that’s true for kids, as well as moms and dads. “When kids are surrounded by clutter or too many things, they can have difficulty choosing what to play with and this can impact their attention span and ability to concentrate,” says Jane Stoller, professional organizer and author of Decluttering for Dummies.

The reasons to declutter are clear, Stoller adds: an increase in productivity, happiness, and free time to spend with loved ones. And the actual process doesn’t have to be daunting if you do it right.

Get the Family Involved

Before you dive into a declutter project, keep in mind it will be less successful as a solo mission. “It is very important that everyone in the house is aware and on board with your decluttering mission,” Stoller advises.

Start by having a conversation with your significant other.

“Go through why decluttering will help the household and your 16

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

relationship,” Stoller says. These benefits may include more time to spend together or less early-morning stress about locating the kids’ sports equipment before the school bus arrives.

And get your kids involved, too. “Ask your children to go through their rooms and make two piles—the things they love, and the things they don’t love so much,” Elbert suggests. This will help them feel empowered, and far more willing to be part of the process. Another trick: Let kids know their toys will be donated to others—and by sorting through them, they’re clearing space for new toys.

You can also gamify decluttering to encourage participation, Stoller says. Try setting the timer for 30 minutes, she suggests. If your kids declutter 20 items and put them into their boxes in 30 minutes, they get a small reward.

Follow Through

Even after you’ve sorted the mail and thrown out stained clothes, more mail will enter your home, and you’ll drip more coffee on your jeans. Decluttering is not a one-and-done project.

“It should be an automatic part of your daily routines and lifestyle,” Stoller says. Her advice? Before you purchase an item or allow it into your space, question if it will provide value. If it won’t, don’t allow it inside your door. Avoid impulse purchases; a list or clearly defined purpose when you head into a store can help.

Marty Basher, home organization expert for Modular Closets, suggests making decluttering a routine. “Schedule a time each week, or even each day, to tidy up and get things in their place,” he says. That way, you won’t get overwhelmed by the volume of items in your home.

If you find yourself avoiding the task, just remember, decluttering benefits you—and your family—in important ways.

As Elbert says, “Decluttering, in combination with creating easyto-maintain systems, is a great way to turn your home into the sanctuary you and your family deserve.”

TIPS FOR DECLUTTERING SUCCESS Giving your whole house an overhaul in one day can be overwhelming, so start with these tips to get in the groove.

Start small.

If you are overwhelmed by the entire house, tackle one space at a time, suggests Jane Stoller, professional organizer and author of Decluttering for Dummies. For example, attack the kitchen junk drawer or an unruly closet. Alternatively, choose one category— papers, sweaters, or that Tupperware collection.

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Use a timer.

“Set a timer for 15 minutes and see how much you can accomplish,” says Marty Basher, home organization expert for Modular Closets, who finds that 15 minutes is the perfect amount of time to bring order to a bathroom cabinet or a heaping pile of mail. Elsa Elbert, professional organizer and owner of Composed Living, says other easy-to-tackle spots are sock drawers and kids’ dressers, along with shelves of expired food in the pantry.

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Start with non-sentimental items.

Going through the kids’ artwork or baby clothes can be hard because of all the emotions attached, so begin your decluttering with items that aren’t laden with sentiment, Basher says.

Choose a donation spot.

“Every time you find anything you don’t love or no longer use, immediately place it in the donation station,” Elbert says. Put an appointment on your calendar to drop things off monthly (or less frequently, depending on how much it piles up), Basher suggests.

“If you want to make a little extra money, sell your items on eBay or your local Facebook marketplace,” he suggests.

Go room by room.

Divvying up the task makes it far more manageable. Once you’ve selected a room, be prepared to go through and categorize items into piles for toss, donate/sell, and keep, Basher says.

Make sure to put an organizational system in place so closets and tables don’t revert to their pre-decluttering look. “The key is to make sure everything has a place or a ‘home,’” he adds.

Cut down on keepsakes.

Consider having a curated—not comprehensive—collection of your little ones’ arts-and-crafts projects. “For your own personal memorabilia and those of your kids, sort through your keepsakes and think hard about their importance,” Basher says. “Only keep items that you feel will be important to look back at years from now, or ones to share with your kids.”

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Holiday Fun in city bound

Chanukah on Ice NYC is celebrating its 13th year.

The Festival of Lights… on Ice!

Courtesy Dutch Blythe Fashion via Flickr

Celebrate Hanukkah the cool way at the Lasker Rink in North Central Park. At Chanukah on Ice NYC, the Chabad Family Programs of the West Side invites families to enjoy Jewish music under the stars, traditional treats such as latkes and doughnuts, and of course, the lighting of the 6-foot ice menorah. Dec. 22, 5-8pm. In advance: $32 with skate rental, $24 without skate rental. At door: $35 with skate rental, $28 without skate rental.

Use code NYMetro for 10-percent discount online. Ages 3 and older. chanukahonicenyc.com

You can get a good view of the Rockefeller Center ChristmasTree from Rockefeller Plaza, the Channel Gardens, or on Fifth Avenue between 49th and 50th streets.

Let There Be Light!

Every year, New Yorkers look forward to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting. The ceremony begins Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 7pm and the lights come on at 9pm, but if you want a good view, we recommend you get there as early as possible (some people camp out starting early in the morning!). In addition to the illumination of the 77-foot tall Norway spruce, you’ll enjoy musical performances by Gwen Stefani, John Legend, Lea Michele, the Radio City Rockettes, and more! Free. rockefellercenter.com

N Y C

By Melissa Wickes

Courtesy Bronx Zoo

W he hile y re ou , v ’r isit e …

Enjoy holiday lights, take a ride on the holiday train, enjoy the music of carolers, watch an ice carving competition, and snap the perfect Instagram with a costumed character.

Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is a family favorite all year round. Enjoy the classics, like the sea lion feeding and penguin feeding, or get up close and personal with one of your favorite animals such as a cheetah, a giraffe, a penguin, or a sloth. Some exhibits are weather-dependent, so be sure to check which exhibits are open before visiting on the Bronx Zoo app.

Visit it: 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx; 718-220-5100; bronxzoo.com Can’t-miss event: Holiday Lights; Nov. 20-Dec. 31, Jan. 3-5 (excluding Dec. 24-25). $29.95 ages 13 and older; $22.95 ages 3-12. $28.95 seniors. Free for children 2 and younger. Use code HOLIDAY10 for a 10-percent discount.

Directions: Approximately a 40-minute drive from New City

Courtesy Bryant Park Winter Village

Courtesy Chabad Family Programs of the West Side

things to do

Visit the Bryant Park website for information on 2020 Kids Week, with skating, crafts, and more fun for kids.

Bryant Park

This winter wonderland is home to NYC’s only free-admission ice rink, a bar and food hall, a variety of winter-themed activities, and so much more. The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is Manhattan’s one-stop shop for holiday fun for the whole family. Browse unique gifts at the open-air market with artisans from NYC and beyond or cozy up with your loved ones at The Lodge for a snack and a warm drink. See website for schedule and admission pricing. bryantpark.org Directions: Approximately a 1-hour drive from New City

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Turn the page for details on ‘The Nutcracker’ (No. 4 on our list)

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DECEMBER CALENDAR

20 Editor’s Hot Tickets

26 Mini Musicians,

21 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

22 Crafty Kids

27 Movers & Shakers

23 Smarty Pants

28 The Great Outdoors,

24 Holiday Fun

Once Upon a Time

Show Time!

29 Animal Lovers,

Dance Party

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 11 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!

1

Breakfast With Santa

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 9-11am WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Share your Christmas wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy a delicious buffet, and listen to the sounds of the season with live entertainment from Jungle Gym Jam. WHY WE LOVE IT: Bring your camera to capture the moment after breakfast, when Santa will lead a parade to Santaland!

WANT TO GO? See website for details. 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

New Jersey Ballet’s ‘Nutcracker’

2

WHEN: Dec. 7-8, 1pm and 4:30pm WHERE: Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood AGES: All WHAT: Audiences of all ages will feel the holiday magic when the toys come alive in beautiful fashion and dance to the beloved music of this tale.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The troupe of professional dancers have all studied in the world’s finest academies and toured on every continent!

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

3

‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’: featuring ‘Dream Snow’ & Other Eric Carle Favorites

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 15, 1pm and 4pm WHERE: Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Eric Carle’s Dream Snow, a magical Christmas story told in the author/illustrator’s unique and beautiful style, joins Jonathan Rockefeller’s menagerie of more than 75 incredible puppets.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The makers of the critically acclaimed show have added a special Christmas-themed piece!

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

‘The Nutcracker’

WHEN: Dec. 7-15, see website for showtimes WHERE: Cultural Arts Theater, Rockland Community College, 145 College Road, Suffern AGES: All WHAT: Join Clara and her Nutcracker as they battle the Mouse King, and journey through the Snow Forest to the Land of the Sweets.

WHY WE LOVE IT: There will be narrated performances at 1pm–great for little kids!

WANT TO GO? $28 preferred seating and day of show; $25 all other seats. 845-623-2808. rocklandyouthdanceensmble.org.

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

4

6

5

‘A Christmas Carol’ presented by bergenPAC

WHEN: Dec. 20-22, Friday 8pm; Saturday 1pm and 4:30pm; Sunday 1pm WHERE: Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood AGES: All WHAT: Get in the spirit of the season and follow Ebenezer Scrooge on a magical journey through Christmas past, present, and future in this classic story.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Arrive early to have your picture taken with Santa Claus in the lobby before the show.

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

Jurassic Quest

6

WHEN: Dec. 28-30, Saturday and Sunday 9am-8pm; Monday 9am-7pm WHERE: New Jersey Expo and Convention Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison AGES: All WHAT: See the largest exhibition of life-size, moving, museum-quality dinosaurs in North America, along with rides and activities for the whole family.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can dig up fossils like a real paleontologist and run wild in inflatable mazes, huge slides, and the multitrack Dino Bungee Pull.

WANT TO GO? $36 kids VIP all-inclusive ticket ages 2-12; $24 regular admission; $22 seniors 65 and older. 936-588-3332. jurassicquest.com.

7

Christmas Light Show & Village

WHEN: Through Dec. 30: see website for schedule WHERE: Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Place, Augusta AGES: All WHAT: With more than two million dazzling lights on a mile-long, drive-through course, plus a new outdoor village, it’s a mustsee holiday attraction for your whole family.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids have a chance to meet Santa and take a photo in his workshop, enjoy skating on the outdoor rink, and play carnival games.

WANT TO GO? $20 per carload; free to enter Outdoor Village. 973383-7644. skylandsstadium.com/christmas-light-show.

10

Jr. Chefs: Stories & Cooking FREE

Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland

WHEN: Nov. 29-Jan. 5, see website for schedule WHERE: Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Ave., Paramus AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy open air ice skating, Santa’s North Pole and Workshop, Bergen Express train rides, carousel rides, food trucks, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The fun includes face painting, balloon artists, and visits with the big man in the red suit!

WANT TO GO? $15 after 11/28; $13 until 11/28; $10 seniors and active military or veterans; free for children 3 and younger. bergencountywinterwonderland.com.

‘Dinosaur Train’: The Traveling Exhibit

WHEN: Through Jan. 20: Tuesdays-Fridays, 9:30am-4pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-5:30pm WHERE: Liberty Science Center, 222 Jersey City Blvd., 3rd Floor, Jersey City AGES: All WHAT: Based on the Dinosaur Train TV series, the exhibition embraces and celebrates the fascination kids have with both dinosaurs and trains.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will learn basic concepts in life science, natural history, and paleontology, and can even meet Buddy the T-Rex live during select dates.

WANT TO GO? $24.99; $21.99 seniors 62 and older; $19.99 ages 2-12. 201-200-1000. lsc.org.

11

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

Make an Ugly Holiday Sweater FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 2, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: All WHAT: You bring the t-shirt, the library will have the decorations.

There will be suggested designs or you can design your own masterpiece! Registration required.

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

Crystal Run Healthcare Prenatal Class FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 5-6pm WHERE: West Nyack Office, 2 Centerock Road, West Nyack AGES: Adult WHAT: The program provides guidance and emotional support and helps prepare expectant parents for the arrival of their new baby. Each class is presented by a pediatrician and provides those expecting with invaluable information on how to care for their child, what to expect in the first weeks and months after birth, and signs and symptoms that warrant a call to the doctor.

WANT TO GO? 845-703-6999. crystalrunhealthcare.com.

‘Dogman’ Party FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 9, 5:30-7:30pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-11 WHAT: Join the library for crafts and fun celebrating your favorite police dog and the release of book 8 in the series. Fun Dogman themed prizes! Registration required.

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

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 14, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Decorate a graham cracker house with icing and candies. Registration required.

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

Music Together FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 17, 11:45am-12:30pm WHERE: Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park West, Piermont AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Each child participates at his or her own level in singing, moving, chanting, listening, watching, or exploring musical instruments.

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

LEGO: Builders! FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 30, 2-2:45pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create your own LEGO designs for display at the library–available for kids who love to build! Registration required.

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

Weekly Drop-In at Rockland Baby Cafe FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 31: 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. ›› Rockland Youth Dance Ensemble Presents

Nutcracker THE

JUNIOR COMPANY PERFORMANCES

Saturday, Dec. 7th 1 pm* & 4 pm Sunday, Dec. 8th 1 pm*

SENIOR ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCES Friday, Dec. 13th 7 pm* Saturday, Dec. 14th 1 pm* & 4 pm Saturday, Dec. 14th 7 pm Reception after performance Sunday, Dec. 15th 1 pm* & 4 pm* *narrated performances

All performances at Rockland Community College TICKETS: $28 preferred. All other seats $25 ($28 at the door) Visit showtix4u.com or call 866.967.8167

RocklandParent 21

The Art School at Old Church’s 45th Annual Pottery Show

WHEN: Dec. 6-8, Friday 6-9pm; Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 11am-4pm WHERE: The Art School at Old Church, 561 Piermont Road, Demarest AGES: All WHAT: The Annual Pottery Show & Sale is a nationally renowned event among the clay community and a destination for close to 1,000 pottery enthusiasts annually.

WANT TO GO? $20 suggested donation 12/6; $10 suggested donation on 12/7-12/8. 201-767-7160. oldchurchpotteryshow.org.

Stickers, Tape, and Glue FREE

CRAFTY KIDS Art Club FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 2, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will color, paint, draw, and explore various art mediums and techniques. Grades 1-4. Registration required.

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

Holiday Film & Dot Painting FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 1:30-2pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Watch a preschool film, then create a colorful holiday decoration. Snacks provided. Registration required.

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

Family Gingerbread House Decorating FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Use icing and lots of candy to decorate a gingerbread house!

Each family will get to take home a completed gingerbread house to enjoy later. Registration required.

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

Parent’s Night Out

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 5:30-9:30pm WHERE: Town of Ramapo Challenger Center, 225 Route 59, Airmont AGES: 5-12 WHAT: While parents take the night off, kids have a full night of fun with gaga ball, basketball, arts and crafts, pizza and snack, and more.

Pre-registration at the JTS Center is required.

WANT TO GO? $20 first child and $10 per sibling; $10 members first child and $5 per sibling. 845-753-2324. ramapoparks.org.

Holiday Cookie Cottages FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 2-3pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Bring one bag of candy to share to decorate graham cracker cookie cottages for the holidays. Registration required.

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

22

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 9, 11am-12pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Make beautiful artwork with paper, crayons, washable markers, safety scissors, and all the stickers, tape, and glue you can handle!

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

Preschool LEGO: Builders! FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 1:30-2pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Create LEGO designs for display at the library. Registration required.

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

Crafternoons with Colette FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Join master crafter Colette Thomas for some creative fun. Registration required.

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

How to Make a Glass Pearl Bracelet FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 7:30-9pm WHERE: Nyack Library, 59 South Broadway, Nyack AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Learn how to create your own beautiful bracelet step by step using glass pearls and seed beads. Keep it for yourself or make it for a friend.

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

Painting With Santa

WHEN: Dec. 3-17, Dec. 3 and Dec. 17, 11am-12pm WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Santa and your child will create a beautiful keepsake cookie plate to cherish for years.

WANT TO GO? $20. 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

Fun with Play Dough FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 10:30-11am WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Together, preschoolers and their caregivers will squeeze, roll, and cut out fun shapes with Play Dough. Registration required.

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

Teen Holiday Cookie Cottages FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 20, 5-6pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Get into the holiday spirit by building holiday cookie cottages and listening to some festive music. Bring a bag of candy to share for decorating. Registration required.

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

‘Goosebumps’: Movie, Game & Craft! FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 27, 2-2:45pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 7-10 WHAT: Watch an episode of the Goosebumps TV series, play a game, and make a craft. Snack provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required.

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

Glaze Storytime

WHEN: Through Dec. 30: Mondays, 11:30am-12pm WHERE: Glaze, 34 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children enjoy a new book and painting a piece of pottery related to that story. Register online.

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

SMARTY PANTS Snowy Science FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 8, 2-3pm WHERE: Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, 443 Van Nostrand Ave., Englewood AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Experiment with super cooling, learn how to make fake snow, and learn how you could make your very own hot ice. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 201-567-1265. eventbrite.com/e/snowy-sciencetickets-73983985091.

Mad Science Show-Power Up! FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about conservation of energy and see how humans can transform moving electrons into other forms of energy such as light, heat, and motion. Watch as a tesla coil creates small arcs of high voltage electricity, illuminates light bulbs, and ignites a fuel.

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

Exploration Station FREE

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W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-10 WHAT: Test, play, and experiment with physics! Registration required.

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

Small Wonders: 44th Annual Holiday Exhibition

WHEN: Dec. 11- March 1, Wednesdays-Fridays and Sundays, 12-4pm WHERE: Historical Society of Rockland County, 20 Zukor Road, New City AGES: All WHAT: See custom dollhouses decorated and furnished down to the tiniest details, from period wallpaper, area rugs, and lamps to food in the kitchen.

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

Angry Birds Universe: The Art and Science Behind a Global Phenomenon

WHEN: Through April 19: Tuesdays-Fridays, 9:30am-4pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-5:30pm WHERE: Liberty Science Center, 222 Jersey City Blvd., 3rd Floor, Jersey City AGES: All WHAT: Explore different concepts in science, tech, engineering, arts, and math in an extreme hands-on environment!

WANT TO GO? $30.99; $27.99 seniors 62 and older; $24.99 ages 2-12.

201-200-1000. lsc.org.

Weekly Drop-In at Rockland Baby Cafe FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 31: Thursdays, 11am-1pm WHERE: Martin Luther King Multi-Purpose Center, 110 Bethune Blvd., Spring Valley AGES: Newborn to 2, adult WHAT: A drop-in to meet and talk to new moms, learn how to make breast-feeding easier, make sure your baby is latching and gaining well, get tips on pumping and going back to work, and learn about other parenting topics.

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

WHEN: Thursday, 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. Registration required.

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

My Grandparent and Me Day

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 13, 9:30am-5pm WHERE: Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate grandparents with free admission to grandparents when accompanied by their grandchildren.

WANT TO GO? $10; free for members and grandparents when accompanied by their grandchildren. 845-471-0589. mhcm.org.

Science of Toys Workshop with Mad Science FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 15, 2-3pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 RocklandParent 23

WHAT: Enjoy historical holiday-themed tours, a free community tree lighting, a craft fair, horse-drawn wagon rides, a cookie walk and paper lantern parade, free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a holiday concert.

WANT TO GO? $16; $14 HHS members, seniors, students, active military members, veterans, and children younger than 13.

Christmas In The Village!

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 12-5pm WHERE: Museum Village, 1010 State Route 17M, Monroe AGES: All WHAT: See Santa by the fireplace, take a stroll down Candy Cane Lane, and enjoy musical entertainment in The Playhouse.

WANT TO GO? Admission is free, suggested $5 donation per family of four. Please bring non-perishable food donations for Country Kids Food Pantry. 845-782-8248. museumvillage.org.

Holiday Lights in Nyack FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 4-6pm WHERE: Veterans Park Gazebo, Main Street, Corner of Main & Cedar, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy entertainment, hot refreshments, a tree lighting, and a visit from Santa. Rain date 12/8.

WANT TO GO? 845-353-2221. nyackchamber.org.

Fellowship Community Christmas Festival & Holiday Sale

HOLIDAY FUN Greenberg Train & Toy Show

WHEN: Nov. 30-Dec. 1, 10am-4pm WHERE: New Jersey Expo and Convention Center, 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison AGES: All WHAT: The Greenberg’s Great Train & Toy Show will feature hundreds of tables of trains and accessories for sale, huge operating exhibits, activities for kids, and more.

WANT TO GO? $10 Saturday; $9 Sunday; free for children 11 and younger. 630-279-4087. greenbergshows.com/.

Caring Santa FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 1, 9-11am WHERE: The Shops at Nanuet, 5101 Fashion Drive, Nanuet AGES: All WHAT: Caring Santa provides a subdued and welcoming environment for children with special needs and their families. RSVP online.

WANT TO GO? 845-367-9450. eventbrite.com/e/caring-santa-tickets-78163586391?aff=affiliate1.

Pizza With Santa

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 6, 6-8pm WHERE: Town of Ramapo Challenger Center, 225 Route 59, Airmont AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy pizza, holiday music, a bounce house, and arts and crafts, followed by a visit and family photo op with Santa! Register in advance.

WANT TO GO? $10 per family (2 adults and 3 children ages 3 and older); $1 per each additional child. 845-753-2324. ramapoparks.org.

A Holiday on Huguenot Street & Community Tree Lighting WHEN: Dec. 6-7, Friday, 4:30pm until Saturday, 5pm WHERE: Historic Huguenot Street, New Paltz AGES: All 24

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Dec. 6-8, Friday, 2-7pm; Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-3pm WHERE: Fellowship Community, 214 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge AGES: All WHAT: Shop for the holidays while enjoying puppet shows, music, and food!

WANT TO GO? Admission is free, prices vary for goods. 845-356-8494. fellowshipcommunity.org.

St. Nicholas Day Family Event

WHEN: Dec. 7-8, 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, and 3pm, daily WHERE: Historical Society of Rockland County, 20 Zukor Road, New City AGES: 3-5, 5-8, adult WHAT: Each child receives a special treat in his or her shoe from Saint Nicholas, and everyone can visit with Saint Nicholas and his horse!

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

Christmas Wonderland Festival

WHEN: Dec. 7-8, 2-10pm WHERE: Rockland GAA, 160 Old Orangeburg Road, Orangeburg AGES: All WHAT: This family-friendly Christmas festival has vendors, a light display, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more.

WANT TO GO? $15; $8 kids. 845-558-0925. trinityeventsnj.com.

‘Something Merry This Way Comes’

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 9, 7:30pm WHERE: The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, 36 Madison Ave., Madison, NJ AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Something Merry—a collage of merry holiday tales, songs, and poems read by company members—is the theater’s holiday gift to the audience.

WANT TO GO? $35. 973-408-5600. shakespearenj.org.

Monday Afternoon @ the Movies-’Get Santa’ FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 9, 1-3:30pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A father and son team up to save Christmas once they discover Santa Claus sleeping in their garage after crashing his sleigh and finding

himself on the run from the police. Rated PG. WANT TO GO? 845-986-1047. albertwisnerlibrary.org.

WHAT: Antrim Players presents Snow–holiday fun for the entire family.

WANT TO GO? $15. 845-354-9503. antrimplayhouse.com.

Holiday Open House: A Shanks Legacy Holiday featuring songs and decorations of the 1950s FREE

Chabad of North West Bergen County Menorah Parade FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 15, 2pm WHERE: Orangetown Historical Museum, 196 Chief Bill Harris Way, Orangeburg AGES: All WHAT: Bubble lights and Bing Crosby; celebrate like the Shanks Village families did in the immediate post-war years.

WANT TO GO? 845-398-1302. orangetownmuseum.com.

‘Tis the Season to be Silly with Mr. Kurt FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 16, 6-7pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Get ready to sing, clap, and dance to the silliest tunes with Mr. Kurt in a fun-filled holiday show! Have fun with shakers or drums for everyone, limber jack puppets, a jaw harp, ukulele, slide whistle, musical storytelling, and a whole lot of bubbles. Registration required.

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

Lots of Latkes

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 5-7pm WHERE: Congregation Sons of Israel, 300 N. Broadway, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Hanukkah with dinner including lots of latkes with applesauce and sour cream! There will also be a fun craft activity available.

WANT TO GO? $18; free for kids; additional fee for craft activity. 845358-3767. csinyack.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 22, 3:30pm Glen Rock; 4:30pm Wyckoff; 5:30pm Franklin Lakes; 6:30pm Mahwah WHERE: Kilroy’s Supermarket, 288 Rock Road, Glen Rock AGES: All WHAT: Chabad of North West Bergen County is kicking off the eight nights of Hanukkah with a Car Menorah Parade that will be lighting menorahs throughout Bergen County, starting in Glen Rock. There will also be hot food, Chanukah giveaways, and a ‘gelt drop’ from a ladder fire truck in Franklin Lakes. Schedule is subject to change, so please check with Chabad of NWBC as Hanukkah gets closer.

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

Photos with Santa at South Court

WHEN: Through Dec. 24: see website for schedule WHERE: Paramus Park, 700 Paramus Park, Paramus AGES: All WHAT: Take post-worthy pics with Santa!

WANT TO GO? Photo packages $39.99-$49.99. 201-261-8000. paramuspark.com.

Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’

WHEN: Dec. 4-29, see website for showtimes WHERE: The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, 36 Madison Ave., Madison AGES: All WHAT: This adaptation is a great way to introduce children to the Dickens classic.

WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 973-408-5600. shakespearenj.org. ››

Kwanzaa Family Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 21, 10am-1pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: NJPAC’s annual festival features West African dance and drums, a Kwanzaa ceremony and storytelling, arts and crafts, live performances, and more!

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

Kwanzaa Marketplace

WHEN: Dec. 20-21, Friday 6-10pm; Saturday 9am-5pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: Shop custom and cultural clothing, handcrafted jewelry, original designer hats, bath and body products, candles, books, art, and more!

WANT TO GO? Admission is free, prices vary for goods. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

A Frosty Fest

WHEN: Nov. 29-Dec. 22, Fridays, 6-8pm; Saturdays, 4-8pm; Sundays, 4-7pm WHERE: Headless Horseman Hayrides, 778 Broadway Route 9W, Ulster Park AGES: All WHAT: A new family fun holiday light spectacular, featuring Candy Cane Lane, Frosty’s Enchanted Forest (drive thru or hayride), a 3D walkthrough Frosty’s Magical Adventure, visits with Santa at the North Pole, a professional stage show, gift shops, and tasty treats.

WANT TO GO? $12.95-$17.90; $9.95-$14.90 children younger than 12; free for children younger than 1. 845-339-2666 x10. afrostyfest.com.

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‘Snow’

WHEN: Dec. 20-22, Friday and Saturday 8pm; Sunday 2pm WHERE: Antrim Playhouse, 15 Spook Rock Road, Wesley Hills AGES: All

Dental Wellness of Suffern | Sherri Alpert, D.D.S. 2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern | (845) 918-1801 dentalwellnessofsuffern.com RocklandParent 25

Learn to play the Ukulele FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 17: Tuesdays, 6-6:45pm 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 provide them with the skills they will need. Registration required.

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

ONCE UPON A TIME Elementary Explorers FREE

MINI

MUSICIANS Holiday Concert: ‘Peter and the Wolf’ & More FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 8, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Each member of the orchestral woodwind family will be represented in a family concert. Peter and the Wolf, the well-loved Nutcracker Suite, and The Carnival of the Animals will be performed on flute, oboe, clarinet, French horn, and bassoon.

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

Josh Rouse in Concert

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7:30-9pm WHERE: Rockland Center for the Arts, 27 South Greenbush Road, West Nyack AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This very special evening will include fan favorites as well as songs from his new album The Holiday Sounds of Josh Rouse.

WANT TO GO? $25. 845-358-0877. rocklandartcenter.org.

Lindsey Stirling: Warmer in the Winter Christmas Tour 2019

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 13, 8pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: If you loved Lindsey on America’s Got Talent and Dancing with the Stars, you won’t want to miss this merry and mind-blowing live performance.

WANT TO GO? $43.50-$98.50. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

Neil Berg’s Broadway Holiday

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 14, 8pm WHERE: Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center, 1351 Kings Highway, Chester AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A wonderful mixture of holiday music and Broadway standards with some of Broadway’s brightest stars and lead by producer Neil Berg.

WANT TO GO? $35. 845-610-5900. sugarloafpacny.com.

The Boston Pops on Tour Holiday Pops Concert

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 15, 4pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: The iconic Boston Pops return to NJPAC with a sparkling holiday celebration, complete with stories, songs, and carols.

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

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 4:30-5pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Stories followed by various activities including crafts, games and fun! Registration required.

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

Storytime With Santa FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 10-11am WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Your children will be captivated as Santa reads some of his favorite traditional and modern Christmas stories.

WANT TO GO? 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

Multicultural Holiday Storytime FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 10-10:45am WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Join Melinda Burgard and Miss Stacy for stories, songs, and some holiday refreshments. Register at the children’s desk.

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

Storytime with Ms. Judy FREE

WHEN: Dec. 2-16, Mondays, 10:15-10:45am WHERE: Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park West, Piermont AGES: Newborn to 3 WHAT: Stories, songs and fingerplay.

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

Storytime with Ms. Nancy FREE

WHEN: Dec. 2-16, Mondays, 11:15-11:45am WHERE: Piermont Public Library, 25 Flywheel Park West, Piermont AGES: Newborn to 3 WHAT: Stories, songs and fingerplays.

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

Rhyme, Bounce, and Giggle! FREE

WHEN: Dec. 2-16, Mondays, 10:30-11am WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 3-18 months WHAT: Stop by the library for songs, rhymes, and stories for the littlest ones! Registration required.

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

Paws for a Cause FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 6-7pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 East Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children are invited to read to a therapy dog who has been certified to encourage them to improve their reading skills. Registration required.

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

Cozy Winter Storytime FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 9:30-10am WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Wear something comfy, bring a big blanket, and snuggle in for hot chocolate and cozy stories.

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

Preschool Storytime FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 18: Wednesdays, 3-4pm WHERE: Teaneck Public Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Have fun at this preschool storytime!

WANT TO GO? 201-837-4171. teanecklibrary.org.

Saturday Storytime FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 25: Saturdays, 11am-12pm WHERE: Teaneck Public Library, 840 Teaneck Road, Teaneck AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy old and new favorites at this family storytime.

WANT TO GO? 201-837-4171. teanecklibrary.org.

MOVERS & SHAKERS Sensory-Friendly Night of Play

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 5, 5-7pm WHERE: Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum, 75 North Water St., Poughkeepsie AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The museum will be offering a modified environment with reduced sound, designated quiet spaces, and extra visual signage and sensory aids.

WANT TO GO? $10; free for members. 845-471-0589. mhcm.org.

Minecraft Club FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 12:30-2pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Bring your own computer or use one of the library’s laptops to build, explore, and play in the Minecraft world. You must have a Minecraft account to participate.

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

and your family are the players and pieces in Chutes & Ladders! Registration required.

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

Public Skating Lessons

WHEN: Through March 1: Mondays and Tuesdays, 10-11:30am and 121:30pm; Fridays, 8-9:30pm; Saturdays, 10am-9:30pm; Sundays, 10am7:30pm. Please check website for additional times during school breaks and holidays.

WHERE: Bear Mountain Ice Rink State Park, Bear Mountain AGES: All WHAT: Break out your skates, or rent a pair for the day, and enjoy the outdoor Bear Mountain Ice Rink.

WANT TO GO? $5; $2 non-skaters and seniors; free for children 4 and younger; $5 skate rentals. 845-786-2701. bearmountainicerink.com. ››

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SmashFest! FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 5:15-7:45pm WHERE: Albert Wisner Public Library, 28 Railroad Ave., Warwick AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Get ready for Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo Switch.

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

Coffee and Coloring: Playgroup and Meetup FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 13, 9:30-11am WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Meet other local parents and kids for some free play and enjoy free coffee, tea, and light snacks. Registration is required.

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

Life-Size Chutes & Ladders FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 27, 11am-12pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Feel the thrill of being in the game while you’re playing it: you

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RocklandParent 27

Farmers Market

WHEN: Through Dec. 29: Sundays, 10am-2pm WHERE: Hudson Valley Regional Farmers Market, 15 Mount Ebo Road S., Brewster AGES: All WHAT: See what this year-round indoor-outdoor farmer’s market has to offer every Sunday.

WANT TO GO? Admission is free, prices vary for goods. 845-629-2824. facebook.com/HVRegionalFarmersMarket.

Seasonal Storytime FREE

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Nature in Winter

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 10am WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum’s Outdoor Discovery Center, Muser Drive, Cornwall AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Take a hike to search for signs of animals and plants that stay green through the winter, and meet one of the local mammals and discover its strategy for surviving.

WANT TO GO? $10; $8 children; $7 members; $5 children members.

845-534-5506. hhnaturemuseum.org.

Holiday Open House

WHEN: Dec. 5-8, 10am-4pm WHERE: New Jersey Botanical Garden, 2 Morris Road, Ringwood AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a self-guided tour of the splendid decorations at your own pace.

WANT TO GO? $10; $8 seniors; $5 children 6-12; free for children 6 and younger. 973-962-9534. njbg.org.

Family Woodland Hike FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 15, 1pm WHERE: New Jersey Botanical Garden, 2 Morris Road, Ringwood AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the plants and animals around you in a hike designed to fit the group. Rain cancels.

WANT TO GO? 973-962-9534. njbg.org.

Adventures in Reading: ‘The Busy Little Squirrel’ FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 20: 11am-4pm, daily WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly AGES: All WHAT: Hikers can read a nature-themed story while they walk in the woods. StoryWalk is an interactive outdoor exhibit that turns reading into an adventure along the trails without electronic devices.

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

Winter Solstice Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 21, 3:30-5:30pm WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum’s Outdoor Discovery Center, Muser Drive, Cornwall AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the longest night of the year with a scavenger hunt for the hidden Yule Log, a bonfire, snacks, and warm beverages.

WANT TO GO? $8; $6 members; $6 children; $4 children members. 845534-5506. hhnaturemuseum.org.

28

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 29, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, 443 Van Nostrand Ave., Englewood AGES: All WHAT: Sit down in the display room for a snuggly storytime perfect for any little tykes right before naptime. Storytime will be followed by a small animal presentation.

WANT TO GO? 201-567-1265. eventbrite.com/e/seasonal-storytimetickets-73977575921.

SHOW TIME!

‘Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure’

WHEN: Nov. 30-Dec. 1, Saturday, 10am, 2pm, 6pm; Sunday, 10am and 2pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: It’s Pirate Day in Adventure Bay–and Ryder will need all paws on deck to find a pirate treasure–before Mayor Humdinger finds it first!

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

8th Annual Westchester All-Stars and Friends Christmas for Veterans Concert

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 6, 7:30-9:30pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Kick off to the holiday season while supporting our true American heroes.

WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

‘A Christmas Carol’: Presented by Ulster Ballet Company

WHEN: Dec. 6-8, Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 4pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Ulster Performing Arts Center, 601 Broadway, Kingston AGES: All WHAT: Now in its 25th anniversary year, featuring a cast of 65 dancers, actors, and stage professionals, this show is just what you’ll need to put you in the mood for the holidays!

WANT TO GO? $25; $22 seniors; $18 children 12 and younger. 845-3396088. bardavon.org.

Paper Heart Puppets Presents: I Love Tacos FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 14, 11:20am-12:05pm WHERE: Palisades Free Library, 19 Closter Road, Palisades AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join White Nosed Coati and a cast of amazing Mexican wildlife in three original stories celebrating tacos and the place they were created.

WANT TO GO? 845-359-0136. palisadeslibrary.org.

Holiday Dreams: A Spectacular Holiday Cirque!

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 28, 3pm and 7:30pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: You’ll ooh and ahh at this high-tech winter wonderland that takes the phrase “the magic of Christmas” to a whole new level!

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

Michael Carbonaro Live!

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 29, 7pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: Magician Michael Carbonaro will dive into the audience to perform incredible illusions that will have you laughing along as you’re scratching your head.

WANT TO GO? $39-$79. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

ANIMAL LOVERS Paws for Reading with Buster and Seamus FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 9, 4-5pm WHERE: Palisades Free Library, 19 Closter Road, Palisades AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children read one-on-one with a specially trained Reading Education Assistance Dog (R.E.A.D.) and its handler. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 845-359-0136. palisadeslibrary.org.

Pet Nights with Santa FREE

WHEN: Dec. 1-15, Sundays, 7-9pm WHERE: Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, East Court, Level One near H&M, West Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Well-mannered cats, dogs, and other friendly pets are invited to spend time with Santa while you fetch keepsake photos of the occasion.

WANT TO GO? 845-348-1000. palisadescenter.com.

Pet Pictures with Santa at South Court

WHEN: Through Dec. 16: Mondays, 5pm WHERE: Paramus Park, 700 Paramus Park, Paramus AGES: All WHAT: Sit. Stay. Pose! Take some pet pics with Santa and your dog or cat.

WANT TO GO? Photo packages $39.99-$49.99. 201-261-8000. paramuspark.com.

Beary Merry Holiday

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 21, 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 the bears unwrap their gift boxes full of delicious treats!

WANT TO GO? $1 suggested donation at Trailside; $10 parking. 845786-2701 x293. trailsidezoo.org.

nymetroparents.com/register ››

DANCE PARTY TQ Holiday Event

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 7, 10am-12pm WHERE: Our Lady Mother of the Church, 209 Woodcliff Ave., Woodcliff Lake AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a full breakfast, a special dance performance from DanceFusion of the Maywood Dance Center, and a meet and greet with Santa!

WANT TO GO? $20; $13 children 2-12. 201-406-9243. tana.ticketleap.com.

EMG Dance Studios Presents Its First Annual Holiday Show

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 14, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: Northern Valley Regional High School-Demarest, 150 Knickerbocker Road, Demarest AGES: All WHAT: See the talented students of EMG Dance Studio at their First Annual Holiday Solo Show.

WANT TO GO? $15-$35. 201-660-8484. eventbrite.com/e/emgdance-studios-first-annual-holiday-show-tickets-76847776769.

The Nutcracker National Ballet Theatre of Odessa

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 14, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: This Nutcracker is a truly magical experience the entire family is sure to love. Delight in Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, spectacular sets, lavish costumes, and Russia’s acclaimed National Ballet Theatre of Odessa.

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

Hip Hop Nutcracker Featuring Kurtis Blow

WHEN: Dec. 20-21, Friday 7pm; Saturday 2pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the season with NJPAC’s original holiday extravaganza, which reimagines the traditional Tchaikovsky ballet with explosive urban choreography. A dozen unstoppable all-star dancers go full-out from start to finish, wrapping the classic story of The Nutcracker in New York City style.

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

Holiday Family Hoedown FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 27, 7:30-9:30pm WHERE: Congers Community Center, 8 Gilchrest Road, Congers AGES: All WHAT: A family evening of square dancing co-sponsored by Rockland Rockytops Square Dance Club. No experience or partner necessary!

WANT TO GO? 845-639-6200. clarkstown.org.

RocklandParent 29

family life insurance

Get Insured

››

How to choose and sign up for a health insurance plan if your company doesn’t offer one By Emma Steven

I

f you don’t receive health insurance from an employer, getting covered can be a daunting process, especially with dependents.

Many people consult a broker or an agent, but before making any choices, it’s important to do your homework. To help you sort out the complex options, we spoke to health care experts about how best to choose a plan.

Know Your Timing

The most important thing to remember when it comes to buying health insurance is there is a limited period of time each year— open enrollment season—when you are able to enroll in a new plan (or make a change, such as being added to a spouse’s plan).

One of the most common mistakes people make is they miss this window, says Lisa Zamosky, spokesperson for private online health insurance exchange eHealth and author of Healthcare, Insurance, and You: The Savvy Consumer’s Guide. “The window has shortened in the last two years. It’s now just a month and a half,” she says.

In our area, open enrollment runs from Nov. 1-Dec. 15, 2019, with coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2020. Open enrollment periods for employer plans vary. Remember: It’s impossible to enroll at any other time, unless you have what qualifies as special enrollment—a change of circumstances, such as losing your job, getting married, or having a baby. New York is one of the only states in the U.S. that considers pregnancy a special enrollment event.

Decide What You Need

Some folks may qualify for Medicaid and/or Child Health Insurance Protection—visit health.ny.gov for more information. Most people, however, will have to choose a plan depending on their individual medical needs. This can get confusing. “One of the most common mistakes people make is focusing exclusively on the monthly premium,” Zamosky says. “That’s really important. It’s got to fit into your budget.

But it’s also really important to understand how the things that you need are covered.” For example, consider how often you go to the doctor, your medications, and what you seek in preventative care.

Brittney Castro, Certified Financial Planner and expert at Investopedia.com has this advice: “Anytime you shop for insurance…start with looking at the policy offer (what is it covering?) and the benefits you want,” she says. “Start there and see what the cost comes out to be, then compare it against your budget and see if that’s realistic. Then you can start to eliminate certain bits of the coverage to get that premium down to a level that you feel you could afford.”

Types of Plans

Don’t just choose a plan at random. Make sure you weigh the pros and cons of each, then select the best one for you and your family.

Here is an overview of the various health insurance plans available.

30 December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Spouse Plans If you are married, check if your spouse’s employer offers coverage as part of his or her benefits package. You can be added to the plan during the open enrollment period or under special enrollment.

If you aren’t married, many employers also offer domestic partner benefits to their employees. This can be tricky: Domestic partner benefits are not tax-free like the premiums paid for a spouse; on the other hand, employers may help cover the cost of these premiums.

Before you go this route, Zamosky recommends checking the numbers. “More often than not, it’s a better and more cost-effective choice. But there are certainly scenarios where that may not be the case,” she says. “It costs you nothing to go online and take a look at the plans.”

If adding everyone to one policy is too expensive, you can search for a new family plan on the Affordable Care Act marketplace, or private exchanges such as eHealth. You may qualify for financial help. Unfortunately, due to a rule colloquially called the “Family Glitch,” even if you qualify for subsidies based on your family income, the system may still count you as having access to an affordable plan because the calculation is based on the individual premium, not the family premium. This means you might not always be eligible for assistance, even if adding your whole family to the plan is unaffordable.

COBRA If you recently quit or lost your job, you can keep your old insurance for a limited period thanks to the Consolidated Omnibus Reconciliation Act, COBRA for short. This federal law allows you to continue paying for your old plan. The catch? You now have to pick up the entire cost, so it is often very expensive. Plus, you only have 60 days to sign up after your job coverage ends, so you need to move quickly.

You can also use COBRA to get coverage if you get a divorce, your insured spouse dies, or you become too old to be on your parents’ plan. The maximum amount of time you can get coverage this way is 18 months, and you can opt out at any time.

Exchange Plans Another option is buying a plan on an exchange and, thanks to the ACA, every state now has an insurance marketplace (ours is nystateofhealth.ny.gov), where you can compare plans and choose the best one for you. Each is guaranteed to comply with the ACA’s

rules, such as covering pre-existing conditions and preventative care, and no cap on annual benefits. There are also many subsidies you can apply for. You can buy a plan from the marketplace online, on the phone, via a paper form, through a private exchange, or direct from a broker or agent. Again, you can only do this during open enrollment or special enrollment.

What many people don’t realize is the state marketplace doesn’t include all ACA-compliant plans offered by insurers. “If you don’t qualify for subsidies, it’s a good idea to have a look at something like eHealth or speak to a broker, because there may be a plan that isn’t on the state marketplace that could be good for you,” Zamosky says.

Small Business Owners One exception to the open enrollment period rule is available to small business owners. If you run a small business with two or more full-time employees, you can buy something called small business plan insurance. These are ACA-compliant and often work out to be very good value, Zamosky says.

If you don’t have your own business, there are many business associations that offer health insurance plans. For example, if you are one of the 57 million freelance workers in the United States, you can buy a plan through the Freelancer Union (freelancersunion.org). There are 450,000 members nationwide, and it’s free to join. Association plans like this can only be joined during open enrollment or special enrollment.

High-Deductible Health Plans With HDHPs, you pay a lower monthly premium because your deductible is high. They are often offered by employers alongside a Health Savings Account they contribute to, but HDHPs can be bought individually. Before deciding on one of these plans, it’s very important to figure out if it makes sense based on your specific medical needs. According to Zamosky, there are two types of people who this plan suits: those who rarely visit the doctor and so save money with the low premium, and those who anticipate high costs (such as people planning surgery in the next year) who benefit from the cap on the out-ofpocket expenses.

Whatever path you choose, don’t opt out. No insurance means you won’t be able to take care of your health with regular check-ups and preventative care. You won’t be prepared in the case of an accident if you need medical attention or hospitalization. Medical bills can quickly add up if you don’t have insurance, and are a leading cause of bankruptcy, according to a recent study by the American Public Health Association. “I would never recommend that as a financial planner—or as just a citizen,” Castro says.

Emma Steven is a British freelance writer living in Manhattan with her husband, two small kids, and two cats.

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raising kids

Health

Sick Day Rx

››

While your kid may be fighting through the sniffles, you’ve got to field calls from work, arrange child care for tomorrow (just in case), and keep your feverish little monster entertained. It won’t necessarily be fun, but it can be easier. By Katelin Walling

T

he alarm clock rings for school, and your child complains of not feeling well. While fluids and rest are the best treatments when your child is sick, according to Tanya Altmann, M.D., FAAP, pediatrician, mother of two, and American Academy of Pediatrics spokesperson, you’ve got some immediate decisions to make. Here’s your prescription for sick days, including when your child should stay home and finding last-minute child care to keep this sick day from turning into a Ferris Bueller’s Day Off-like escapade (hey, it’s okay to keep the kid entertained, but let’s skip the parades).

Going to School vs. Staying Home Nearly 22 million school days are lost each year due to colds, and approximately 38 million school days are lost each year due to the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If your child is starting to feel ill but you don’t want her to contribute too many of her own sick days to those millions of missed school days, you can still send her to school if she has a runny nose, is sneezing, or has a slight cough, says 32

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Sandhya Katz, M.D., board-certified in pediatric and pediatric emergency medicine. “But send them with instructions of: Always cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and always dispose of used tissues. And send them with a hand sanitizer to keep in their bag so they can constantly clean their hands.”

Dr. Katz says you should absolutely not send your child to school when he is feverish, is vomiting more than two times a day, has discharge coming from his eyes, is having trouble breathing, or has a whooping-kind of cough or persistent abdominal pain. If your child is unable to perform daily tasks or be in class for 6-8 hours, Dr. Katz adds, that is also a reason why your child should stay home.

When your child has not had a fever for more than 24 hours, is not vomiting, and can sit through a full day of school, she is in the clear to head back to class.

Find last-minute child care.

“There are times when you choose to take a somewhat ill child to school because it will seriously inconvenience you.

Other times you don’t want to keep your child home because something special will be missed—a school trip, or a crucial test,” says Susan Bartell, Psy.D., a Port Washington-based child, teen, and parenting psychologist. “We all do it, but let’s face it, it’s not right. If you’re sick you should be home recuperating.” But keeping your child home may not be a cutand-dry situation, especially if both you and your spouse work.

Here, a few suggestions for last-minute child care: • Set up an agreement with your partner: If you and your spouse have the flexibility of taking a sick day at work when your child’s sick, take turns on who will stay home each day so one of you isn’t taking all the time off, or consider each working a half-day so neither of you misses a full day of work.

• Ask your employer if you have a work-from-home option: Some businesses will allow employees to telecommute for a day or two, which makes it easier for you to care for your child. Just make sure your child understands that you still need to work and can’t give him one-on-one attention all day.

• Keep a list of caregivers that may be available at the lastminute: If you have family close by, check with them to see if they’d be willing to care for your child when she has to stay home sick. Another option is asking a friend who works from home to work from your home while keeping an eye on your child.

• Call the local hospital: Your neighborhood hospital or pediatrician may offer day care for sick children, or they may know of a sick child drop-in center nearby. (Do this research ahead of time so you’re not scrambling day of.)

• Browse online sitter services: Sites such as SitterCity.com, UrbanSitter.com, and Care.com allow you to search for sitters that are available last-minute to care for your child. Full disclosure: Tell the sitter before booking that your child is sick.

Keep the rest of your family healthy.

Once school begins, colds spread like wildfire. And if you’re not careful, that school-borne illness your child has can easily spread to the rest of the family. “About 65 percent of all colds are caught in the home,” says Philip Tierno, Ph.D., director of clinical microbiology and immunology at New York University Langone Medical Center.

So how do you keep the rest of the family healthy? Dr. Tierno suggests you wash your hands regularly and thoroughly (Dr. Altmann suggests teaching your kids to sing “Happy Birthday” or “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” twice while washing

KEEP THE BOREDOM AT BAY Our top 10 mellow activities to keep sick kids entertained without wearing them out.

Make a fort in your child’s bedroom or the living room where he can nap.

Have various story times throughout the day if your child is young. Alternatively, if your child is older, give her some pleasure reading books (not school books).

Mix up some Jell-O—the perfect snack for sore throats!—in creative shapes, either with fun-shaped silicone baking molds or ice cube trays, or use a good ol’ cookie cutter.

Change location. Being confined to the same spot all day will make anyone restless, so switch between the bedroom and living room. This writer’s favorite place when home sick? Mom and Dad’s bed, which was big enough to snuggle with Fido.

Cook up a big pot of chicken noodle soup, which delivers protein, carbohydrates, some vitamins, and other helpful nutrients in an easily digested form. A study at Mount Sinai Medical Center found that hot chicken soup, either the smell or the taste, “appears to possess an additional substance for increasing the flow of nasal mucus,” which helps remove germs from your system and gets you on the way to recovery, according to Sue Castle, in her book Mother Knows Best?

The Truth About Mom’s Well-Meaning (But Not Always Accurate) Advice.

Dust off that stack of coloring and activity books or print free ones at home (check out crayola.com for seemingly endless options).

Legos…need we say more?

A little screen time never hurt—cue up movies on Netflix, the Disney Channel, or Nickelodeon.

Dawdle in a long, warm bath, especially if your kids love playing in the tub but never get enough time for it before bed.

Play a board or card game of bygone days—crazy eights, cribbage (bonus: math skills practice), or Sorry, anyone?

hands for proper cleaning); teach your children the proper etiquette for coughing and sneezing—use a tissue or the crux of your arm—and model these actions to your children; sanitize surfaces in the home—doorknobs, dining surfaces, remote controls, telephones; and practice good food hygiene by sanitizing countertops and cooking surfaces regularly, always use a clean cutting board, and avoid mixing uncooked plantand animal-based foods.

It’s also important to discourage kids from touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands and tell them to avoid close contact (such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils) with people who are sick.

RocklandParent 33

raising kids baby

The Palmar Grasp reflex, which happens when you stroke your infant’s palm, is practice for mastering voluntary grasping.

Decoding Infant Reffllflexes ›› Here’s the breakdown on baby’s baffling—but totally normal—built-in behaviors

A

lmost everything about a newborn is overwhelming. On littleto-no sleep, you’re expected to assemble gear that requires an engineering degree. You can’t go out without carrying what feels like the entire contents of your home. Then you start to notice your baby is doing these...weird things. And your new-parent panic kicks in: What. Is. Happening!? No need to worry. Those fascinating, quirky little behaviors are natural, and actually serve a purpose.

What are reflexes?

Reflexes are involuntary, spontaneous movements that are part of normal infant development. Adults have them too; the “knee-jerk” reaction to a tap of your doctor’s hammer is probably the most familiar.

Infant developmental reflexes are also known as primitive reflexes, and they arise from the brain stem and spinal cord. “They are generally believed to exist because they have offered a survival benefit to human infants from an evolutionary perspective,” says Lauren Levine, M.D., assistant professor of Pediatrics at Columbia University Medical Center in Manhattan. Primitive newborn reflexes will generally fade away between 1 and 6 months of age.

“If you think that your infant’s reflexes persist past this age, you should let your pediatrician know,” Dr. Levine says. “But I tell parents not to stress about newborn reflexes. A good pediatrician will be assessing them at each well-baby visit without you even realizing it!”

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

By Christina Vercelletto

The Rooting Reflex

What: When either side of a baby’s mouth is touched, he’ll turn his head in that direction, open his mouth, and root around.

Why: This helps a baby find the nipple and be able to feed. “You can imagine how an infant without these primitive reflexes might not have survived after birth thousands of years ago,” Dr. Levine notes.

In the first month of your baby’s life, when she’s learning how to eat and you’re learning how to feed her, you can leverage this reflex. “Stroking the baby’s face at the corner of the mouth can help encourage the baby to latch on or take the nipple in the mouth,” says Victoria Riese, M.D., of Flatiron Pediatrics in Manhattan. “Just be aware that a baby will root any time the cheek or corner of the mouth is stroked, so don’t mistake the reflex for a sign of hunger, especially if the baby has just eaten.”

The Sucking Reflex

What: When the roof of a baby’s mouth is touched, she immediately starts sucking. (Newborns also have a strong urge to put their fists in their mouths and suck on their own fingers.)

Why: Newborns’ neurological systems are immature in the first six months of life. “There needs to be a fail-safe method for the baby to get nourishment without any purposeful behavior, and then growth and development can follow,” Dr. Riese says. (This particular reflex isn’t completely cemented in utero until about 36 weeks, which is

why preemies often have a compromised ability to feed.)

Sucking in general is soothing to babies, a secondary function of this reflex that probably developed to motivate babies to suck to get milk. “When a baby is fussy, putting a clean finger or pacifier in her mouth is extremely soothing and will help calm her very easily, especially if she has recently eaten and is not hungry,” Dr. Riese says.

“This is one of the most useful methods to calm babies.”

The Moro (aka Startle) Reflex

What: In reaction to a sound or nearby sudden movement, a newborn throws back his head, extends his arms and legs out, then pulls his legs and arms back in. He might cry as well. Some babies even display this reflex in response to their own cry. “They are often the reason babies wake themselves up from sleep,” Dr. Levine says. “This is why swaddling infants helps them to sleep better.

Their arms are tucked in and can’t flail about.”

Why: “The reflex movement adjusts the baby’s posture to keep him or her balanced. Once a baby develops more voluntary control over movements, these automatic responses fade away,” says Devorah Segal, M.D., Ph.D., pediatric neurologist at New York-Presbyterian Komansky Children’s Hospital and Weill Cornell Medicine in Manhattan. And a good sense of balance is quite useful for a new human to have. For one thing, it can make it easier to grab onto your mother if she should start to lose her grip on you.

The Tonic Neck (aka the Fencing Position) Reflex

What: When your baby is lying down, and his head is turned to one side, the arm on that same side extends out, while the other arm bends at his elbow, like a fencer would stand.

Why: Much like the Moro reflex, Dr. Segal explains, this one likely originated as an automatic protective response to help maintain balance. After six months or so, “more purposeful balancing motions replace it,” she says.

The Palmar Grasp (aka Grip) Reflex

What: Stroking your baby’s palm spurs her to close her fingers in a grasp. (A similar lesser-known reflex in the feet and toes usually lasts until babies are about 9 months old.)

Why: It’s practice, essentially, for being able to master voluntary grasping, which will happen in a few months. Some experts call it a vestigial reflex, meaning its evolutionary purpose is no longer useful.

It is thought to have originated as a way for babies to hang onto their mothers’ fur when humans were hairier. That alleviated the need for a mother to hold onto her baby while trying to, say, run from a predator.

The Stepping ReflexACTIVITIES

EVENTS

“The best thing for parents to do when it comes to their infant’s primitive reflexes is to know what they are,” Dr. Levine notes. “That way, they’re not alarmed when they see them, and they’re able to tell the pediatrician if any of them are asymmetrical.” For example, your baby only grasps with her right hand and not the left, or, when startled, flails her left arm but not her right. “Such asymmetries could indicate a nerve or musculoskeletal injury from the birth process and need further evaluation,” Dr. Levine says. But remember, the reflexes themselves are not harmful to your baby in any way. Dr. Segal agrees: “There is nothing parents need to do to ‘train’ their baby out of a reflex. They will go away on their own over time.”

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What: Despite not being able to support his own weight, your baby moves his legs as though walking, even dancing, when you’re holding him upright with his feet touching a solid surface.

Why: This reflex is pretty much what it looks like: preparation and training for the all-important ability of humans to walk upright.

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raising kids teen

Your teens still need some guidance when it comes to healthy habits, such as eating a balanced meal, so try cooking together once or twice a week and enjoying a meal as a family.

Don’t Let Go—Just Yet

››

Even though your teen is gaining more independence, you still need to do these four things. By Laura D’Angelo

I

“ ’m not a little kid anymore!”

Those six heart-wrenching words are often what adolescents tell their parents, who may still view their teens as the babies they once were. It can be hard to let go, whether you are handing over the car keys, packing your “child” up for college, or accepting that your 13-year-old wants to start wearing makeup to school.

No parent is fully prepared to come to terms with their teenager outgrowing certain childhood habits. However, society sometimes misconstrues what the actual meaning of adolescence is: an extension of childhood. Even though your teenager is beginning to gain independence, that doesn’t mean he is going to become a full-fledged, independent adult overnight. Here are four ways your teen still needs you, according to experts in adolescent psychology.

Set Rules and Boundaries

You’ve likely set guidelines throughout your teen’s life, relating to your family values and morals—and those of society and culture at large. But internalizing and acting according to those rules is a lot for her to take on by herself right now, according to Erin Jant, Ph.D., developmental psychology professor at 36

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Binghamton University. “They’ve had all these routines and rules throughout their life, but they might still need reminders on some things,” Dr. Jant says.

This is especially true when it comes to the pressure your teen may feel from her peers or what she sees on social media, according to Alyson Cohen, LCSW, who works with adolescents and young adults at her private practice in midtown Manhattan.

Your teen doesn’t need to be micromanaged in every aspect of her life, but gentle reminders here and there—especially when it comes to what’s okay to share and how to act on social media—will go a long way to ensuring your teen stays safe online, Cohen points out.

Remind About Dietary and Hygiene Habits

While your teenager may not need to rely on you entirely for meals and reminders about cleanliness anymore, it’s possible he still might need some help adjusting to becoming independently accountable for the many responsibilities that come with growing up.

Check in on your teenager to make sure he’s practicing healthy food habits to balance the junk food he eats when you’re not

around. In many situations she deals with, Cohen finds it helpful when parents are involved in preparing their teenager’s food. Try cooking together once or twice a week, or give him more freedom to choose and prepare a meal for the family.

When it comes to hygiene, it’s especially important to help young teens along with some gentle reminders—after all, needing deodorant and getting acne is new for them. Cohen suggests asking questions like: “Are you brushing and flossing your teeth at night?”; “Are you actually using body wash and shampoo when you take a shower?”; “When was the last time your sheets were changed?”; and “Are you making sure your favorite jeans are getting washed?” The important thing is not to come down on him for doing something wrong, but rather to reinforce his positive behaviors and habits through encouragement.

Allow for Natural Consequences

One of the most influential factors in whether a teenager becomes a self-reliant, confident adult is whether she has been allowed to face (and learn from) the consequences of her actions, Dr. Jant stresses. If you fix every single issue for him, he won’t ever get the sense of autonomy he needs to thrive in the real world. After all, if you keep bringing your teen her lunch at school because she always forgets to pack it, will she ever learn to remember? “[It’s important] that their parents are giving them rules, sending them off, and hoping that they’re learning from their own failures, while always providing support when necessary,” Dr. Jant says. “Natural consequences are very useful and impactful for teens especially.” So, consider letting your teens experience safe and natural consequences. For example, instead of emailing her English teacher asking if she can do extra credit to boost her grade, let her take the lower grade. It’s the only way she’ll realize writing her essays on the bus the morning they are due isn’t a great idea.

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Show Emotional and Physical Affection

Even if your teenager tells you he can’t stand your smothering hugs, appropriate physical affection from a parent or guardian is something he’ll never outgrow, Cohen says. “There has been so much research in the last 25 years that there is no amount of love that you can give your child that’s too much,” Cohen says. “And when I say love, I don’t mean being overbearing, in their face trying to do everything for them, but [saying], ‘I love you. I care so much about you. I’m so happy you’re in my life.’”

It is especially important to remember your teenager has not outgrown physical affection, according to Dr. Jant. Why? “The risk for depression in adolescence jumps up exponentially compared to middle childhood,” she says. So, it’s crucial that parents pay attention to behavior shifts in their children, and not take on a permissive parenting style just because they want Saving money on a New York City to be liked, Dr. Jant says. “There are so many parents who feel family day is easy! that tension…so then they pull back. They just allow [their teen] to do whatever, and then that can lead to negative consequences for that child.”

Even though it can be difficult, it’s important to remember to remain calm when your teenager is acting up or shutting you out. Even if she’s behaving like she wants nothing to do with you, what she really needs more than ever is your love, support, and affection.

LOOKING FOR

LOOKING FOR

GREAT

GREAT DEALS?

DEALS?

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

Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more.

Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

Laura D’Angelo, a former NYMetroParents editorial intern, is a junior at Binghamton University.

RocklandParent 37

LOOKING FOR

Saving money on a

family life finance

Use It or Lose It

››

Surprise: Your Flexible Spending Account probably covers more expenses than you think.

T

he year is almost over. Do you still have a balance in your Flexible Spending Account? The funds can be used tax-free for eligible medical expenses—but only if you spend them within a certain timeframe. The deadline is often Dec. 31; check your plan. After the cutoff date, the money disappears faster than a Lego in a shag rug.

Most parents still have between $50 and $200 of FSA money to spend (or lose) before year’s end, according to the FSA Store (fsastore.com), an online shop that sells only FSA-eligible items.

But don’t panic: You don’t have to schedule a New Year’s Eve dental cleaning to bring that balance to zero. We spoke with Kim Buckey, vice president of client services at DirectPath, an employee engagement, health care transparency, and compliance firm for Fortune 1000 employers, to get some smart suggestions of FSA-eligible items.

Of course, plans can vary, so ask yours. But by and large, the stuff on this list generally gets the green light: • Eyeglasses: Now’s the time to splurge on cool frames or pick up an extra pair for your child who always loses his.

• Bandages: The next time your child gets a boo-boo, make her feel better with a kiss and the words “Mommy saved

•

• • • • • • • •

the equivalent of our tax bracket on this bandage.” Or maybe just skip that second part.

Travel for medical care: Did you regularly trek to the nearest city so a family member could see a certain physician? The mileage is reimbursable; ask your plan for the going rate.

Contact lenses and related supplies: Saline solution, rinses, and even lens holders all count.

Pregnancy and ovulation test kits: Ready to expand your family in the new year? Stock up.

Diabetes test kits and materials Orthodontia—even partial payments can be deducted.

Batteries for medical equipment such as hearing aids and nebulizers Orthopedic inserts for shoes, even non-prescription ones Heating pads Lead paint removal: This is only allowable if your child has or has had lead poisoning. The repainting is not covered.

For more suggestions, visit fsastore.com and browse around.

As always, check with your plan’s specific guidelines for eligible purchases.

Deborah Skolnik lives in Westchester with her husband and two daughters, and enjoys writing, cooking, and gardening.

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

By Deborah Skolnik

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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!)

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

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Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

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

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Meet the

Health Care

Professional 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.

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

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.

Smile More Kidz Meet Your Smile Team 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan 845-367-7782 smilemorekidz.com

At Smile More Kidz, we are part of a local tradition of providing 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 welcome special needs patients, and offer 8am–7pm and Saturday appointments so 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.

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.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

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 a child 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 Espanol.

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

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.

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 are our 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.

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

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.

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

Want to know the Best Activities for Families?

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 state-of-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.

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

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 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. Most insurance accepted, evening and Saturday hours and 24-hour emergency service available.

NYMetroParents.com/register

Want to know the Lipson Family Best Activities for Families?

Coaching Strengthening your Family

MELISSA LIPSON Child & Family Coach

Join our Winter 2020 Social Skills Group where children learn to make friends, regulate emotions, resolve conflicts and make better decisions: Mondays

Thursdays

Combination

Subscribe Ages 5-8 Yrs to Ages 7-10 Yrs Classes 4:15−5:15pm 4:15-5:15pm Ages 5-10 our family If schedule times do not work or if interested in private sessions, please contact us. activity email (914) 649-6923 • www.lipsonfamilycoaching.com 275 Route 304, newsletter. Suite 500, Bardonia, NY 10954

NYMetroParents.com/register Paint Our Pottery Art Studio Want to Affordable and know creative fun for the whole family!

Choose from hundreds of great items both large and the Best small to either paint & take home or paint, glaze & fire •Birthday Parties •Bridal & Baby Showers Activities •Girls Night Out •Corporate Events for Scout Families?

•Girl Events •Private Parties Call or check website for current hours Subscribe to our 66 Route 9W (Across from St. Peters Cemetery), Haverstraw, NY family activity www.paintourpottery.com | 845-553-9002

email newsletter.

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Fabulous Breakfast with Santa NYMetroParents.com/register Fundraiser Event!

The Rockland All Star Senior Dance Team Presented by Vicki’s Dance Studio When: SUNDAY DECEMBER 8, 2019 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 with this ad (Under 2 FREE) Must RSVP in advance: Please call 845-634-2202 for tickets Includes: Buffet Breakfast, Arts & Crafts, Games, Dancing, Interactive Entertainment, Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Gift Basket Raffles and more!

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO THE ROCKLAND ALL STAR SENIOR DANCE TEAM

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.

NYMetroParents.com/register

S P

T S

30 Ramland Road Orangeburg, NY 10962 845-848-2228 | www.SPOTSOT.com RocklandParent 41

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT CHARACTERS ON CALL Serving Rockland and Bergen Counties 845-215-9651 facebook.com/charactersoncall Characters On Call provides quality character entertainment at great prices! Whether you’re looking for a princess, superhero, mermaid, or cuddly friend, we are ready to help you.

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 mid-week special rates. Fully insured.

INFLATABLE PARTY ADVENTURES Serving Rockland, Northern New Jersey, Westchester 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.

SWEETGUY ICE CREAM TRUCK Serving Rockland and Bergen since 2011 845-499-5480 sweetguyicecream.com sweetguyicecream@gmail.com Invite SweetGuy to your child’s birthday party and get some really sweet extras! We provide a photo booth and props for souvenir photos. The birthday child will get a free t-shirt and a guest server spot onboard the SweetGuy Ice Cream truck!

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 42

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

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, affordable, 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 201-383-0027 abrakadoodle.com kroberts@abrakadoodle.com Paint, slime, draw, fun, clay, and glitter are all the cool things we do 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 rocklandkarate.com 7-11 Suffern Place, Suffern 845-368-3209 martialartssuffern.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.

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

JILL’S CERAMICS 180 Germonds Road, West Nyack 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 their friends, and an item for each child to paint.

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

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

We are well known for our great birthday party packages and offer Glow Bowling for Sunday parties. All parties include bowling, shoe rental, food, paper goods, invitations, setup, and cleanup.

NOW YOU’RE TALKING - BIRTHDAY PARTIES! 43 S. Liberty Drive, Stony Point 845-533-5544 nowyouretalkingspeech.com We offer the perfect party space for an affordable, customizable birthday event for kids age 3 and younger.

DIY or premium themed party options. Packages start at just $150 for up to 12 kids.

PAINT OUR POTTERY 66 Route 9W, Haverstraw 845-553-9002 paintourpottery.com We offer fun and creative ceramic birthday parties where each child gets to take home their own hand-painted creation! You choose party packages that can include decorations, food, and themed items. All parties include painting supplies and party coordinator.

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

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

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 provide wonderful, exciting, and energetic party instructors. Also, free invitations, paper products, and utensils for the kids. 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 great birthday parties for boys and girls of all ages with a variety of themed options such as Hip-Hop Dance Party and 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 parties visionsportsclub.com Our fun-filled parties are 1½ hours with one hour of games and activities of your choice in our 7000-square-foot Sports Zone, private party room, pizza, and drinks.

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-square-feet of turf, two regulation-size basketball courts, six Har-Tru tennis courts, indoor bouncers, and private party room.

Education Resources PAROCHIAL & RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS

Archdiocese of New York - Catholic Schools of NY 646-794-2885 catholicschoolsny.org Catholic Schools welcome families looking for personalized learning in a secure, nurturing environment where today’s students become tomorrow’s leaders in high school and beyond.

Book a tour or apply today.

Professional services

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

EMPLOYERS Moms Make Great Part-Time Staff People LOOKING FOR STAFF? POST YOUR JOB MOMMYBITES.COM/POSTJOB • Admin • Customer Service • Marketing • Sales • Editorial • Other Jobs

TUTORS & TEST PREP WHIZKIDZ TUTORING LLC Serving Westchester, Rockland, and Bergen Counties, and Long Island 914-200-3512 whizkidztutoring.com emaltz@whizkidztutoring.com WhizKidz Tutoring provides top notch tutoring services for students of all ages.

You can count on us to help boost your child’s confidence in school, develop a healthy relationship with learning, and improve grades across every subject.

RocklandParent 43

Mitzvah Market magazine Your Source for Ideas & Inspiration

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Mıtzvah Market 2018-2019

MITZVAHMARKET.COM

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Your single source for:

g Entertainers g Caterers g Favors g Photographers g Invitations and more...

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Weaving a

Family Heirloom: A TAlliT TO TREAsuRE

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December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Photo Credit: André Maier

Photo Credit: André Maier

Photo Credit: Beth Capuano

Davler Media Group Fax: 212.271.2239 • Call: 914.290.4716 Email: Distribution@davlermedia.com 213 W 35th St. Suite 12W, New York, NY 10001

PARTY PLANNER

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

Invite Fudgie or Mystique to your next party!

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

PERFECT PARTY SPACE FOR KIDS 3 AND UNDER! • Budget Friendly • Customizable Options • DIY Parties • Premium Themed Parties • Add-on's like Face Painting & Carnival Corner Packages Start At Just $150 For Up To 12 Kids. Each Additional Child Only $15!!

Call: 845-533-5544 visit: nowyouretalking speech.com location: 43 S. Liberty Drive Stony Point

Special Reduced Rates Mon – Thurs!

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

845-362-6053

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

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics................................................13

Huntington Learning Center ............................................9 Lindgren School & Camp Holiday Craft Fair...................12

birthday / party services

family entertainment / events / outings restaurant / food services

acrobatics / gymnastics

Jill’s Ceramics ................................................................35 Paint Our Pottery ...........................................................41 Palisades Climb Adventure ............................................11 Rockland Parent Party Planner......................................45 Tumble-Bee Gymnastics................................................13 Urban Air Adventure Park...............................................48 West Rock Indoor...........................................................13

Jill’s Ceramics ................................................................35

Nyack Chamber of Commerce Holiday Events................5

religious Archdiocese of New York .................................................3

Palisades Center .............................................................7 Ramsey Indoor Farmers Market ....................................37

NYBG - Train Show..........................................................9 Paint Our Pottery ...........................................................41 Palisades Center .............................................................7 Palisades Climb Adventure ............................................11 Ramsey Indoor Farmers Market ....................................37

camps

RYDE - THE Nutcracker ................................................21

Camp Ramaquois ..........................................................11 Lindgren School & Camp Holiday Craft Fair...................12 West Rock Indoor...........................................................13

The Christmas Caboose.................................................13 Urban Air Adventure Park...............................................48

child care / day care

fitness

Vicki’s Studio Breakfast with Santa................................41

Mommybites...................................................................43

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics................................................13

classes

health

retail Palisades Center .............................................................7 Ramsey Indoor Farmers Market ....................................37 Tilly...A Deer’s Tale.........................................................35

special events Lindgren School & Camp Holiday Craft Fair...................12 Nyack Chamber of Commerce Holiday Events................5 RYDE - THE Nutcracker ................................................21 The Christmas Caboose.................................................13 Vicki’s Studio Breakfast with Santa................................41

special needs Huntington Learning Center ............................................9 Lipson Family Coaching.................................................41 Now You’re Talking Speech Therapy .............................37 Smile More Dentistry ...............................................17, 40 Spots OT........................................................................41 Tumble-Bee Gymnastics................................................13

Now You’re Talking Speech Therapy .............................37

Clemente Orthodontics ..................................................41 Crystal Run Healthcare..............................................2, 40 Dental Wellness of Suffern.......................................25, 40 Lipson Family Coaching.................................................41 Now You’re Talking Speech Therapy .............................37 Sachdev Family Orthodontics ..................................11, 41 Smile More Dentistry ...............................................17, 40 Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry...................13, 40 Spots OT........................................................................41 Tenafly Pediatrics ..........................................................40

education

play spaces

tutors

Archdiocese of New York .................................................3

Urban Air Adventure Park...............................................48

Huntington Learning Center ............................................9

Jill’s Ceramics ................................................................35 Paint Our Pottery ...........................................................41 Tumble-Bee Gymnastics................................................13

dance RYDE - THE Nutcracker ................................................21 Vicki’s Studio Breakfast with Santa................................41

developmental

sports Palisades Climb Adventure ............................................11 West Rock Indoor...........................................................13

RocklandParent 45

Shana Liebman

raising kids voices

Trip of a Lifetime ›› Despite every precaution, our family vacation turned tragic. By Shana Liebman

I

insisted on the vaccinations. Typhoid, hepatitis A, MMR, polio.

I even drove the kids upstate to a clinic because the yellow fever vaccine was in short supply. Their arms hurt for days.

For malaria we had to take pills, which for a 7-year-old and a 9-year-old is virtually impossible. I sprayed our clothes with Deet and packed the extra anti-malaria pills along with six bottles of Off and a scarf that was supposed to repel mosquitoes.

My husband thought I was crazy. “Bobby says it’s not necessary,” he said. Bobby is our friend who lives in Kenya. We were on our way to visit him for what was going to be—to use a cliched phrase that we found ourselves reluctantly repeating—the trip of a lifetime.

“Why take a risk?” I argued.

“Whatever you want,” my husband said.

Finally, we were ready for what I thought was going to be the hardest part of our journey: a 17-hour plane ride. Instead, we breezed through the epic flight. “See?” My husband said.

“It’s easy.”

Bobby was there to greet us and drove us through the packed, dusty Nairobi streets to his home behind a guarded gate. That afternoon, the kids held mini bananas while monkeys jumped on their backs. We fed giraffes and drank wine beneath avocado trees.

After three days, we flew to the Mara—the bush—where we watched a lioness kill a gazelle then offer the carcass to her cubs.

We saw wildebeests, led by zebras, cross a river filled with crocodiles. Our kids gaped in awe from the back of the jeep and slept beneath mosquito nets back at camp.

Then we hopped another plane to Watamu, a small town on the Indian Ocean where we found ourselves in a beachfront five-bedroom with a personal chef. I read an entire novel while the kids frolicked in the pool. I am happy, I emailed a friend.

After snorkeling, we decided to check out the Crab Shack on the mangrove where we could watch a stunning sunset. It was 5pm, daylight just starting to fade. “Boys get your shoes,” I said.

A few seconds later we heard a shatter like a planter had been knocked over and then I saw what had actually happened, a vision that still haunts me every time I close my eyes.

46

December 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Nate and Mack, the author’s sons, in the Mara with a Masai guide

Mack, my 7-year-old, who was running to get his shoes, had smashed right through the sliding glass door. Glass was everywhere and Mack was screaming. And then there was blood. So much of it. I thought of the gazelle in the Mara. I thought of the book I read where a boy walks through glass and dies. And I thought, is this it?

I immediately started reassuring everyone, but for the first time as a parent, I thought: It’s not going to be okay. This is when the good times end.

And then: What if? What if he had not left his shoes outside? What if we had decided to stay in that evening?

My hands shook as I wrapped Mack’s wounds. The ambulance arrived. A doctor tried to give Mack an IV, but his veins had collapsed.

We drove 2 hours through black night under pouring rain on dirt roads to a hospital where a young African girl was wheezing.

Was this really happening?

There were waves of nausea and blurry floors. Finally, the doctor said, “He’s going to be okay.”

“He is?” I asked, still unsure.

We spent the rest of our vacation in African hospitals, getting Mack sewn back together. The pain was so bad at times that he needed IVs and shots and nerve-blockers. He screamed and cried and vomited from the medicine. But after a week, we learned there would be no permanent damage, minus a few brutal scars.

When we got home, there were notes and flowers from our friends. Exhausted, I unpacked our dusty clothes and saw the bottle of anti-malaria pills. I thought of all the shots I had made the boys get, the forms I carried with us in a sturdy plastic folder— proof of our exceptional health and fortitude. That was us before, I thought, before we knew what it felt like to see our tiny, precious child hurt so badly that time stops.

I threw the pill bottle in the trash. We had shielded ourselves against deadly, crippling diseases, and yet life had thrown us a curveball that no vaccine could have blocked.

Are we better for it? Who knows? But two months later, as I write this, Mack is kicking a soccer ball against the house, shaking the walls—something I’ve told him many times not to do. And I am grateful, so grateful for it.

Celebrate !

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11/14/19 2:36 PM