Rockland Parent August 2016

RocklandParent august 2016

nymetroparents.com

Making Melodies

All you need to know about kids’ music lessons

Behind the Thrills

PLUS: Find the best

after-school activities

How water parks keep everyone safe

Olympic Conversations Using the Summer Games to spark family discussions

Where to Pick Berries

•

The Power of Preschool

2

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

SUMMER ISN’T OVER Camp J Rock FOR YOUTH IN GRADES PRE-KINDERGARTEN –7

AUG 22- SEP 2 9am-5pm Early and late care available at no additional cost • • • •

Half Day and Full Day options Daily & weekly rates Swim and water activities Snacks and lunch included*

CAMP J ROCK Jr (Grades Pre-K-3) CAMP J ROCK SPORTS (Grades 3-7) (week 2 only Aug 29- Sept 2) CAMP J ROCK TRIPS (Grades 3-7) *Off site programs do not always include lunch

For more information, dates and details check us out online at

jccrockland.org/camp-jrock camps@jccrockland.org

JCC Rockland

450 West Nyack Road, West Nyack, NY

#jccrocklandcamps RocklandParent

3

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

August 2016 ›› Features 16 Choose the Best After-School Activity for Your Child A flowchart to help you pick extracurriculars 18 It’s Music to Their Ears What you need to know about music lessons 38 Olympic Lessons How the Summer Games can spark important family conversations 40 Behind the Thrills A look at how water parks train lifeguards

38

42 Burgers Reinvented Three new takes on the grilled summer staple

46

45 Grilled Desserts? Yes, Please!

Sweet treats to impress at your next barbecue

18

46 The Power of Preschool Pre-K is much more than just play time

Connections 6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 14 Voices: Respecting kids’ fashion choices 15 NYMP Q&A: Allyson Downey talks thriving in your career while raising children

42

Fun & Activities

Family Activities Calendar ››

12 Media Matters: Screen-Time Recommendations 13 DIY Corner: Mollusk Wind Chime 24 Outing: Prospect Park Zoo 27 Family Activities Calendar 36 Where-To Guide: Pick Your Own Berries

27

Directories 20 47 48 49 50

After-School Classes & Programs Preschools and Child Care Centers Meet the Health Care Professional Party Planner Advertisers’ Index

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

by Appaman (appaman.com)

››

On the Cover ›› 18 Making Melodies 20 Find the Best After-School Activities 38 Olympic Conversations

facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

36 Where to Pick Berries

40 Behind the Thrills 46 The Power of Preschool

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

Saving People Money Since 1936 ... that’s before there were shopping carts.

GEICO has been serving up great car insurance and fantastic customer service for more than 75 years. Get a quote and see how much you could save today. geico.com | 1-800-947-AUTO | local office

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2015 GEICO

RocklandParent

5

AUGUST 2016 • Vol.9 • No.10

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

Editor’s Note

Our Activities, Our Passions

W

hen I was little, I took piano lessons, but practicing was always a struggle, and I quit after a year. Some years later, I got it in my head that I wanted to play clarinet, and took several years of lessons before transitioning to saxophone, which I played in my high school orchestra. Despite all this, playing music was a constant struggle for me, and practicing held little interest. I stuck with it because I liked the idea of being a musician—but never got much out of it. Still, I have always been fascinated by those who can produce beautiful sounds from a musical instrument. I didn’t know until recently that one of those people is on my staff here at NYMetroParents. As you can read on p. 18, Samantha Neudorf, our assistant editor, is a longtime violinist. In addition to giving us a glimpse into her own personal musical experiences, she shares all the information parents need to know before starting their kids on musical lessons.

While my kids have not learned instruments, my two oldest daughters have over the years taken swim lessons, ballet, art, a couple of different kiddie music and movement classes, chess, after-school enrichment, gymnastics at two different neighborhood schools, and… I am sure I am missing something. Balancing all the factors—schedules, costs, other siblings’ needs, homework time, and the need for downtime—is a challenge we face annually as we prepare for a new school year. But it is important to us that our kids participate in activities outside school and find outlets for their creativity, athleticism, and passions. In this issue, you will find our comprehensive guide to local after-school classes (p. 20) and a fun quiz to help you narrow down the choices (p. 16).

While my older two children focus on choosing their after-school activities for this year, my youngest will be heading to school for the first time (cue the tears). It’s three mornings per week, and despite having had two older kids attend local nursery schools, we still toured a few, spoke with directors, and had a hard time deciding where to send her. Sure, preschool feels like it’s mostly play, but there’s a lot more that happens there. To find out why it’s so important, check out our story on “The Power of Preschool” (p. 46).

For my oldest daughter, gymnastics has become her biggest after-school focus. She’s psyched to watch the world’s best gymnasts compete this month in the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The games provide a great, laid-back opportunity to engage your kids in discussions about important topics. To help you get started, we offer a guide to sparking these family conversations (p. 38).

With all the talk of after-school activities and back-to-school prep, let’s not forget that it’s still summer! Fire up the grill and try one of our fantastic burger recipes (p. 42) or browse our calendar to find the perfect sunny day family event near you (p. 27). And enjoy the remaining weeks until the kiddos board those buses for school once again.

Michael Kress Editorial Director

DEPUTY EDITOR: Bethany Braun MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling ASSISTANT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Catherine Patwell Regional EditorS: Karen Demeter (Fairfield, Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES Editor: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERNS: Megan Bailey, Lauren Diaz, Melissa Wickes

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

PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Anthony Diaz CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jiyon Son DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds Graphic Artist: Oscar Osario

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

Connect With Us Every Day Wherever and whenever you need parenting advice and resources, we are here for you.

Find useful articles, local business directories, event listings, and much more 24/7 at nymetroparents.com, and connect with us at:

facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

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

twitter.com/nymetroparents instagram.com/nymetroparents And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/register to find out what’s going on in your area for families every week!

6

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

nybarbatmitzvah.com

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN PARENT, FAIRFIELD PARENT and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2015, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

QUALITY HEALTH PLANS for everyone.

MVP Health Care® has a range of affordable, high-quality health plans—from free or low-cost New York State sponsored Medicaid Managed Care and Child Health Plus to the new $0 and $20 premium Essential Plans, and our many individual and family plans available through the NY State of Health™ Marketplace.

For more information, call 1-800-TALK-MVP (825-5687) Or visit DiscoverMVP.com

To learn more about applying for health insurance including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health™, the Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777. Health benefit plans are issued or administered by MVP Health Plan, Inc.; MVP Health Insurance Company; MVP Health Insurance Company of New Hampshire, Inc.; MVP Select Care, Inc.; and MVP Health Services Corp., operating subsidiaries of MVP Health Care, Inc. Not all plans available in all states and counties.

l o o h c S o t k Bac Check List g Goal Settin Esteem lf e S r e h Hig Image lf e S t a e r G Discipline ASSES L C S T R A L A MARTI

Karate • Jiu-Jitsu • Kickboxing Birthday Parties • Camp & Mini Camps Adult Classes

The back-to-school checklist is far more than pencils and paper these days. Stop by or call our studio to see how we can make a positive difference in your child.

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL Enroll by September 10th and receive a FREE Uniform and a FREE Official School T-Shirt Not to be combined with any other offer.

Serving the community in Rockland & Bergen County for over 18 years.

We are now The Academy For Martial Arts.

THE ACADEMY FOR MARTIAL ARTS

8 Orangetown Center, Orangeburg, NY 10962 (845) 359-4500 • www.RocklandKarate.com RocklandParent

7

New places, new programs

Courtesy Kiddie Academy Northvale

nymetroparents.com/np-rp

Educational Day Care Center Opens in Northvale, NJ Who: Kiddie Academy Northvale What’s New: The educational day care center, which implements the trademarked Life Essentials® educational philosophy to make learning fun for kids.

Kiddie Academy is committed to educating the whole child—cognitively, emotionally, socially, and physically.

Children are inspired to discover their individuality and become confident in their understanding of the world.

Nutritious lunches and snacks are served each day.

Call or email to schedule a visit of the facilities.

Want More Info: 271 Livingston St., Unit L-O, Northvale, NJ; 201-767-1120; kiddieacademy.com/ northvale

Children play with scarves at Kiddie Academy Northvale.

Picture your child

ENJOYING

Hebrew School at the BOBBI LEWIS J.E.P. HEBREW SCHOOL Established 1985

• Dynamic Sunday School Program, Ages 5-13 • Excellent Bar & Bat Mitzvah Program • Exciting Enrichment Activities • Youth & Teen Mitzvah Clubs

Special Savings for Grades K-2

• Reasonable Rates/No Membership Fees Call the Jewish Education Program of Rockland

JEProckland.org • 845-558-5858 8

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Join the Vicki’s Dance Studio Family!

Register Now For Fall Classes

FREE skirt for all New Students that bring in this ad Offer expires 10/1/16

Newer, Better, More Speecxtpaecruielnar! ce! ll new A

Thrilling New Rides!

Why choose Vicki’s Dance Studio?

Age Appropriate Beginners – Advanced Choreography & Costumes (2 ½ - Adults) Free Wi-fi & 2-way TV Professional Teachers to watch your children Large Waiting & Dressing Personalized Attention Rooms Girls & Boys Classes Affordable Pricing Multiple Studios for convenient sibling drop off

Jazz • Tap • Ballet • Hip-Hop • Lyrical BOYS Hip-Hop • Pre-K Programs • Combos Musical Theatre • Birthday Parties • Gymnastics Award Winning Dance Competition Teams – K-12th graders – Sign up to Try Out

Giant Slides • Obstacle Course Air Cannon Alley • Sports Arena Giant Spider Mountain Slide • And Much More!

Birthday Parties!

• Giant indoor inflatables • Private bounce and party rooms • Hassle-free, easy to plan!

• Dedicated party pros • Clean, safe and secure • We clean up!

Beyond Birthdays!

• Open Bounce • Create & Bounce Art Camps • Field Trips • Class and Team Parties • Fundraisers and more!

NOW with 3 Locations!

Toddler/Nursery Program 16 months - 4yr. old Boys and Girls

Affordable Pre-School Rates

(Diapers Welcome) Classes Divided By Age •Part time program with extended hours •Small classes with individualized attention •Flexible Schedules

•Early Learning Skills, Arts & Crafts, Music, Creative Movement, Developmental play and lots more!

61 Maple Avenue, New City | vickistudio.com | 634-2202

Paramus, NJ.

70 Eisenhower Dr. Paramus, NJ. 07652

(201) 843-5880

bounceu.com/paramus-nj

Nanuet, NY

424 Market Street Nanuet, NY. 10954

(845) 623-5400

bounceu.com/nanuet-ny

Elmsford, NY

150 Clearbrook Rd. Elmsford, NY. 10523

(914) 874-5200

Kosher Available

bounceu.com/elmsford-ny RocklandParent

9

UOTABLES Obviously, the goal of parenting is to raise well rounded human beings that are able to go off into the world and make smart decisions and have a life of their own, but the idea of my sweet boy not needing me as much really struck a chord in me today.

—Allison Cooper, in a post entitled “When Independence Takes Over,” on her blog projectmotherhoodnyc.com

in an instagram 4+ hours. precisely what summer breaks are made of. #boys #childhoodunplugged #endlesssummer #summersixteen (Posted by @mommydelicioius, aka Alicia Harper, who blogs at mommydelicious.com. The photo was taken at Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6.)

WHEN MOM IS BOSS “I truly enjoy what I do on a daily basis and I’m unlocking the potential of the children in my community, making it a better place to live.”

in an instagram Ladies who lunch! #thisis6 #bff

—Natania Blumenkehl, in a post entitled “Tips for Balancing Life as a Mom and a Business Owner.”

Read more at nymetroparents.com/mom-boss

(Posted by NYC mom @naomi_sixdegreesofmom, aka Naomi Schoenkin, who runs the private playdate community Six Degrees of Mom)

“There are a finite number of years when my voice will be louder than their friends, than magazines, than the rest of the world. So I hold tightly to this sliver of time. I take every opportunity I can to tell them that I think the world of them, that their bodies are perfect exactly the way they are, that they are beautiful and brilliant and creative and strong.”

—Sarah Sandifer, in a post entitled “Why I Completely Overvalue My Kids,” on the site scarymommy.com

10

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: SAND & SURF: Find the best beaches near you at nymetroparents.com/beaches.

LUNCH TO GO: Discover the perfect picnic spot at nymetroparents.com/picnic.

FRACTURE OR SPRAIN? Learn how to tell the difference at nymetroparents.com/fracture-sprain.

WAXY FUN: Plan your visit to Madame Tussauds New York at nymetroparents.com/madame-tussauds.

AFTERSCHOOL CLASSES COD I N G, ROBOTI CS, GAME D ESI GN , CH EMI STRY, VI D EOGR APHY AN D MUCH M OR E !

BIRTHDAY PARTIES XBOX ON E GAMI N G AN D OTH ER S.T. E . M . TH EMED PARTI ES

SUMMER CAMPS F un S.T. E . M . re late d m i ni camp p rograms comi ng thi s sum me r !

40% off Select Camps!

Visit our website for details.

Tech Adventure 404 Route 59 E Nanuet, NY 10954 (845) 627-7000 www.TechAdventureNY.com RocklandParent 11

Media Matters: TV

Terrific Trucks

Recommended Age: 3+ H H H H H

Network: Sprout A delightful series that follows the adventures of real dirt movers.

Screen-Time Recommendations

Mouk

Recommended Age: 4+ H H H H

Network: Xfinity A gentle preschool series that promotes cultural diversity.

Voltron, Legendary Defender

Recommended Age: 8+ H H H H

Network: Netflix DreamWorks updates this ‘80s toon in tense but fantastic form.

Roots

Recommended Age: 14+ H H H H H

Network: History The reimagined slave epic is violent but stirs worthy questions.

In Theaters Aug. 12: Pete’s Dragon Our Partner: Common Sense Media An independent nonprof it that helps families make smart media choices.

Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org

Parents need to know that Pete’s Dragon (2016) is Disney’s remake of the classic 1977 live-action/ animated movie that looks to be a fantasy story for all ages. Mr. Meacham (Robert Redford) has told children tales of a boy and his dragon for years, but his daughter, Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard), a forest ranger, never believed him. Then she meets Pete (Oakes Fegley), a 10-year-old orphan who claims he lives in the woods with his pet dragon, Elliot, which sounds eerily similar to the dragon in her dad’s stories. With the help of 11-year-old Natalie (Oona Laurence), Grace sets out to find out the truth behind Pete, his supposed dragon, and her father’s stories. Given the source material, this looks like a strong choice for families.

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media MASTER JUNG & MASTER YU TRADITIONAL

TAEKWONDO

Need a staycation?

Building Leaders One kick at a time!!!

• • • • •

PHYSICAL FITNESS STRONG BODY! SELF-DEFENSE STRONG RESPECT MIND! CONFIDENCE YES I CAN! DISCIPLINE

Ask about our

ResouRces ARticles

CALL FOR A FREE TRIAL LESSON!

Fun & Educational Birthday Parties

Home of the US National Team Head Coach & International Referee

70 North Main St. New City, Shop Rite Plaza (845) 638-4000 • www.mytaekwondolife.com Check out masterjungtkd on YouTube 12

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Find everything you need, faster at

DIY Corner Beach Craft

Mollusk Wind Chime

A wind chime made from attractive mollusk shells will remind you of the seashore as it dances noisily in the breeze. When you visit the beach, search for shells that have a natural hole. Empty limpet shells, for example, may already have a neat, circular hole in the middle—made by the limpet’s predator—which means you can just thread the craft cord through the hole. Bivalve twin mollusks, such as mussels, cockles, and razor clams, are useful if the two halves of the shell are still attached to each other, because the cord for hanging each shell can be twisted and secured at the shell’s natural hinge. This means that you don’t have to tie a knot—how shell-crafty is this?

What to Use: • 12 empty mollusk shells (such as limpets and bivalve mussels, cockles, or razor clams) • Bowl of warm, soapy water • Spray craft varnish (optional) • 12 lengths of colored craft cord, 10-12 inches in length • Colored plastic clothes hanger, driftwood, or stick • Large pieces of dulse (seaweed) (optional)

1

What to Do: 1. Wash your selection of mollusk shells in a bowl of warm, soapy water and dry them carefully.

2. Spray the shells with craft varnish if you want glitzy shells, and leave to dry.

3. Attach each shell to a length of craft cord by threading the cord through the natural hole and trying a knot at one end.

You can also just tie the cord around the shell, but this won’t be as secure. If you’re lucky enough to have joined bivalve shells, simply twist the cord around the hinge.

4. Arrange the threaded shells attractively and then tie the other end of each cord securely around the lower bar of the clothes hanger. Make sure you space the cords so the shells will bounce into each other in the breeze. Attach a larger piece of dulse for added color if you wish. The color of the seaweed will fade over time.

5. Hang the finished wind chime in front of an open window or perhaps in the garden.

3

4

Let Your Kids Go Wild Outside by Fiona Bird; Ryland Peters & Small, $19.95; rylandpeters.com. Photography by Dylan Drummond and Terry Benson

RocklandParent 13

Voices

Avoiding the Fashion Fight ››

Clothes are an expression of who we are—as my girls are well aware. I’ve learned to let go and respect my little fashionistas’ choices. By Jennifer Garry

M

y girls are fearless fashionistas. While their momma is perfectly content in a solid rotation of V-neck T-shirts, jeans, and TOMS that smell like they’ve been worn all summer, these daughters of mine treat getting dressed in the morning like a ceremony for the super fabulous.

There is combing through closets. There are wardrobe changes.

There are accessories. There are spritzes of perfume and lip gloss application and ballerina-like twirls in front of their fulllength mirror.

Ellie, my 5-year-old, has even started quietly creeping out of bed like the bite-sized ninja she is and dressing herself fully (lip gloss, arm full of bracelets, and much more) before shaking me awake and asking in her best Valley girl voice if she looks beautiful. Where does a 5-year-old child pick up a Valley girl lilt in the first place?!

As the start of a new school year barrels toward us, there is one thing I’m sure of: There is no way these opinionated ladies of mine will transition from the absolute freedom of summer to a rigid school-year wardrobe without a battle. Apparently, kids have their own personalities and opinions—I just wish someone had slipped me that memo when I was pregnant and daydreaming about what life with kids would be like.

I’ve made it clear that there will be no makeup and there most certainly will be daily hair brushing by Mom. But the notion of me picking out their outfits and forcing them into submission? It’s not worth the struggle, even if that means Ellie shows up to kindergarten wearing fleece sweatpants with fluffy skirts and two completely different shoes with as many accessories as she can possibly pile on.

These girls already see their clothes as expressions of who they are. As long as it’s appropriate—meaning they’re not wearing four sweaters when it’s 80 degrees out or tank tops in the snow—why take that away from them? Who really cares if all of the colors and patterns clash violently and make me cringe? If they’re happy and confident, why do I care what anyone else thinks? Because, if we’re being honest, what other people think is the only real reason we battle with our kids over their mismatched hodgepodge outfits.

But consider this: The clothes we wear tell a story. They are a form of self-expression, and allowing our children to show the world who they are and that they’re confident being that person is such an easy way to give them power. I consider it my job to let my girls shine—and I’d much rather allow them to express themselves freely and comfortably now, before I’m arguing with them about more permanent ways of expressing themselves later.

Who am I to get in the way of them figuring out who they are and what they like?

I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a struggle to get to the point where I can just let them be. In fact, it was really, really hard to let go of my control-freak tendencies and my desire to have my girls look like they came skipping from the pages of an expensive catalog. But I truly believe in the importance of teaching my girls that they can make the world a better place by being themselves. And as I watch them skip off in wild outfits of their choosing, I know that they’re confident and excited and feel like the best version of themselves. What more could a momma want?

Jennifer Garry is a freelance writer and Westchester mom. She writes about that ever-elusive struggle for balance on her personal blog, Cuddles and Chaos (cuddlesandchaos.com).

14

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

NYMP Q&A

COUPÉ

Careers & Children ››

theatre studio

Allison Hooban

By Katelin Walling

Allyson Downey experienced pregnancy discrimination at work and thought it was an anomaly. In doing research for her book, Here’s the Plan: Your Practical, Tactical Guide to Advancing Your Career During Pregnancy and Parenting, in which she lays the foundation to help you thrive in your career while raising children, Downey found that nearly one-third of women experienced some form of pregnancy discrimination.

What are the most important things you want new mothers to take away from your book? I think the two biggest ones are speaking up for yourself and really building a professional support network, making as many connections as you can from the earliest point in your career. That is the network that is going to be there for you if you do run into problems like I ran into, but it’s also going to be there to help elevate your career if you don’t get into problems.

What can mothers do to limit judgment from coworkers for having a different schedule? Every woman I talked to that was constrained by child care hours felt spectacular guilt every time she walked out of the office. Those women don’t want to talk about it because why would you want to bring up something that’s making you feel terrible? And the colleagues who are watching you walk out the door don’t want to bring it up because they don’t want to begrudge a mother’s time with her children. What no one is acknowledging is it’s making everyone unhappy.

As hard and uncomfortable it can be, clearly tell your colleagues: I have to leave every day at 5pm for child care pickup. I hate walking out of here while all of you are still working. I am going to do everything I can to cram as much work into the 8 hours I am here, so you may see me decline meetings that aren’t absolutely critical for me to attend. State whatever accommodations you reasonably can make to ensure that you are able to stay on equal footing with your colleagues.

What can men and women do to help change their work culture to be more accommodating to new parents? I think that we are at this really amazing point where there are all of these conversations happening in the media, and dozens of private companies are speaking up and talking about family leave. You can harness that energy and momentum. I think the most effective way to do that is to talk about why it’s good for your company.

Talk in terms of the company’s ability to retain outstanding talent and its ability to recruit great talent because it’s progressive about family leave. Talk about all of the great press that companies are generating from the announcements they’re making about their new 16 weeks of paid leave for both men and women. ...It’s such an important signal that being a parent and taking care of a child is not women’s work. It’s work for parents.

Ballet Jazz Tap Pointe Modern Hip Hop Theatre Dance Musical Theatre Kinders Acting Voice

430 Market Street Nanuet, NY 10954 845.623.2808 Coupedance.com

Registration for Fall Classes Now in Progress

Celebrating our 30th school year this fall!

GYMNASTICS AND FITNESS 10 months to 12 years

Register Now! Fall Classes Begin

September 11

th

FREE TRIAL CLASSES Aug 1st-6th to preview fall.

Call to reserve your day & time (new students only)

Ask about payment plan options!

PRE SCHOOL CLASSES (10 MOS – 5 YRS)

FUN & FIT GYMNASTICS (5 YRS – 12 YRS)

NOW HIRING WORKER BEES! Looking for Responsible, Enthusiastic instructors to join the hive for classes & parties. Call to apply.

Part time, will train ( gymnastics exp. a plus) 1 weekend day & 2-3 days per week (after school hours.)

401 Market Street Nanuet, NY

(845) 623-2553

Reserve Your Private Birthday Party Open Gym, Tumble-Bee Kids Club

www.Tumble-beegymnastics.com RocklandParent 15

Choose the Best After-School Activity for Your Child With myriad activities available to children these days, it’s easy to get bogged down with all the options.

Take this fun quiz to see which activity best suits your child. ››

Your child is a...

Social butterfly

Lone wolf

On the weekends your kid is...

Outside

Is he a picky eater?

No

Yes

Does he love being physical?

Yes

Sports

No

Your child is a ball of energy, so make sure you put it to good use. Team sports, such as basketball or soccer, are a great way to learn team work while also staying fit and active.

16

Your child’s dream job is...

Watching TV

Astronaut

Is she the leader of the pack?

Yes

What’s the first thing she does in the car?

Roll down window

The Arts

Turn on radio

Dance, drama, or a music class would be a great fit for your kid. She is creative and has a zest for life that just can’t be contained. You might have a potential triple-threat on your hands!

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Her favorite subject is...

Science

No

President

Your child’s room is...

English

Is he smarter than you?

Yes

Academic Enrichment

Grades

Your smarty pants can’t get enough of reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Many tutoring centers also offer enrichment classes, espeically during the summer. Get your Einstein learning all year long.

Clean

Messy

What’s more important?

Experience

Art Class

If your child is constantly drawing or painting at home, save yourself the mess and get him into an art class. Art is a great way for your little Picasso to express himself.

Keep Your Family’s Smiles Bright!

Healthy, nuturing, emotionally supportive environment

• Dental Wellness of Suffern & Monroe Dental Office, P.C. provide natural, effective, quality dental care for you and your family.

• We help children who are apprehensive about visiting the dentist feel comfortable and have fun.

Sherri Alpert, DDS Author of Cassandra Gets Her Smile Back and Attack of the Sugar Bugs.

Both books help children enjoy their dental visit.

Books can be ordered on Amazon.com

• We also treat adults for dental implants, crowns and other dental treatments.

Accepting new families.

Book your Appointment today.

Most Insurances Accepted

MONROE DENTAL OFFICE P.C.

Do you still need to find a summer camp?

Dental Wellness of Suffern

Monroe Dental Office – Bobby Crohn, DDS

2 Executive Blvd., Ste. 307, Suffern

400 State Rt. 17M, Suite 2, Monroe

918-1801 – dentalwellness@optonline.net

782-0189 – monroedental@optonline.net

Learn more at DentalWellnessofSuffern.com

Learn more about MonroeDentalOffice.com

INFANTS • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOL • BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL • SUMMER CAMP

ResouRces ARticles

Future leaders have their own way of learning, playing and engaging with the world. That’s why we teach children at their own pace and create as many opportunities as possible.

Life Essentials® nurtures individual potential in unique, developmentally appropriate ways through:

CURRICULUM • TECHNOLOGY • HEALTH & FITNESS • CHARACTER

Kiddie Academy® of Northvale

Find everything you need, faster at

271 Livingston St., Unit L-O Northvale, NJ 07647 201-767-1120 kiddieacademy.com/northvale northvale@kiddieacademy.net

RECEIVE 10% OFF TUITION FOR ONE YEAR: A SAVINGS OF $1,000-1,500 PER YEAR! Offer expires 9/30/2016. Must enroll at least 3 full days/ week. Participating locations only. Contact Academy for details.

RocklandParent 17

Sophia Lee

Christian and Jessica Li of Manhasset perform at the Music Institute of Long Island’s Gala Concert at Carnegie Hall in June.

It’s Music to Their Ears

››

Your child wants to play an instrument—now what? We asked music instructors to weigh in on renting vs. buying, how to choose what to play, and the benefits of private and group lessons. By Samantha Neudorf

I

t was 1998 when I decided I wanted to play the violin. Only 5 years old, I was watching Disney’s Young Musicians Symphony Orchestra on TV with my parents when a violin soloist named Vanessa-Mae came on stage to perform “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s Turandot opera, and her own piece called “Storm” on the electric violin. She swayed back and forth with her eyes closed, evoking a fiery passion with every note. I turned to my mom, mesmerized and inspired, and declared, “I want to do that.” After 12 years of violin and three years of viola lessons, I can firmly say that my life changed for the better.

Science has proven time and again that children who play musical instruments do better in school. That’s because while playing an instrument the brain exercises motor, auditory, visual, and emotional responses all at once, making it the “most complex and demanding cognitive challenges that the human mind can undertake,” according to a study published in the journal Nature Reviews Neuroscience.

Brain stimulation is just the beginning of the benefits of music.

It also helps children focus better in school and grasp new concepts easily.

Sophia Lee of Manhasset is the mother of two children— Christian, 8, and Jessica, 6—who take piano lessons at the Music Institute of Long Island, also in Manhasset. Both of them began taking lessons at age 4 and got started because they looked up to 18

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Lang Lang, a Chinese concert pianist, and their grandmother, who also played piano.

“Piano has also been a great method to be focused, structured, and has helped them academically with school,” Lee says. “[They have more] confidence [when] delivering presentations at school, and [it] has helped Jessica with dance, to be more artistic and graceful.”

Practice, Practice

Music lessons are a discipline because the only way to improve and advance is to practice, which can be hard if a child refuses to pick up her instrument regularly.

“It’s a slow process, but kids have good days and bad days,” says Geri Kushner, director of the Music Institute of Long Island.

“Not everybody is going to have an incredible day at a lesson and a practice at home. Slow and steady wins the race.”

Whether parents want their children to play an instrument or a child chooses to, the child needs to first have an interest in learning about music. “If there is no interest, there is little chance that the child will study an instrument long-term,” says Karen Geer, executive director of the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

Geer suggests that if a child is not ready to play an instrument, she can join a pre-instrumental class to try out different ones and learn about rhythm, pitch, and tempo.

Selecting an Instrument

When choosing an instrument, it is important that the child gets a say in what he wants to play. After all, he is the one who will be practicing it. Some children may have an idea of what they want to play. If not, most schools offer trial classes.

“We say you have to give it at least a semester,” Kushner says.

“Otherwise you’re never really going to know.”

Other schools may have community outreach programs, such as “instrumental petting zoos,” for kids to try out their options.

Parents and kids can also sit in to observe classes. Summer camp programs can also be helpful for families to tour the schools without making any commitments.

If your child is still undecided, Rachael Carson, director of Bach to Rock in Mamaroneck, suggests either trying out voice lessons or playing piano because they are the foundation for a lot of instruments. “We also emphasize to kids that if you pick an instrument, it doesn’t mean that this is the only instrument that you will ever play,” Carson says.

Renting vs. Buying

Most music instructors recommend renting an instrument if a child is just starting out—especially if she is young and can outgrow an instrument that fits her perfectly now.

The only instrument that musicians recommend buying right away, if a family can afford it, is a piano because it is a timeless piece of furniture. “If you can get it in the beginning, you won’t have to worry about it again,” Kushner says.

Otherwise, for piano players, a keyboard can suffice, as there are many decent ones available.

Your music instructor can provide suggestions for affordable rental options. Carson strongly advises against buying instruments from eBay or other similar websites because they are poor quality, calling them “instrument-shaped objects.”

“If your kid gets really serious and you bought an instrument that’s a beginner quality instrument, it’s going to end up hindering that child’s development on the instrument,” Carson says, adding that she did not buy her first violin until she was in high school.

If your child continues to show an interest in playing his instrument years down the line, it could be worth investing in a high-quality instrument.

Musical Methods

Among the first decisions parents need to make when deciding on music lessons for their child is what teaching method to pursue. Many music teachers use the Suzuki method of teaching, developed by a Japanese violinist named Shinichi Suzuki, in which parents learn to play alongside their children. The child would take private lessons along with group classes. (This is the method that I studied.)

Other methods include the Orff method, which engages kids in music using percussion instruments such as the glockenspiel or xylophone; and the Kodaly method, which enforces singing as the foundation of musicianship.

Some music schools, such as Bach to Rock, offer the Suzuki method, along with their own curriculum for kids to learn a mix of classical, pop, and rock music.

“Parents are surprised when they find out that a violin student can learn Katy Perry in addition to learning how to play ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star’ on the violin,” Carson says. “One comment that I get all of the time is, ‘I can’t believe how fun this is!’”

The Music Institute of Long Island offers Kindermusik classes for young children, a Germany-based curriculum designed to encourage musical play and movement.

Private vs. Group Lessons

Children may be enrolled in both private or group lessons—or a mixture of the two—as both are beneficial and provide different experiences for the student.

Young children might consider starting off by taking lessons with one or two other students, then transitioning to a private lesson around age 7. Private lessons are highly encouraged because the teachers can better review the students’ techniques, and one-on-one instruction tends to instill in kids a sense of responsibility.

Group lessons allow kids to play as an ensemble, which teaches them to play cohesively and perform together. For example, the Music Institute of Long Island performs at nursing homes and other venues as a way to give back to people in the community, as well as to build confidence in playing for an audience. Bach to Rock holds a Battle of the Bands competition for its rock band program, in which the kids have the responsibility to listen to the members of their group and play at the same tempo.

If a child is very eager to play, it is possible that she can begin at age 3. Otherwise, age 6 or 7 might be more appropriate, as that is when children begin learning how to read and are more focused and physically developed.

When sitting in lessons, Kushner advises parents to record their children using a video camera or tape recorder and to take notes to make sure that the child takes the corrections from class and applies them at home.

“Everything takes time,” Kushner says. “We improve and sometimes we plateau, just like in everything else. But if they’re not putting in the time, they can’t expect to do fabulously.”

The Payoff

Something that most parents may be surprised to learn once their child begins music lessons is how much dedication and commitment is required. Just as a child might study over and over for a test, he must be ready to constantly practice his instrument to become more advanced.

“If [children] take SATs, ACTs, math tutoring, English tutoring, and Kumon, [those teachers] expect them to work there,” Kushner says.

“We expect them to work at a violin lesson or piano lesson, as well.”

Parents can motivate and support their children by giving them words of encouragement.

“The attitude of the parents, and just being ready to be a support and as enthusiastic as their kids, is important,” Carson says.

As for me, my mom would encourage me to enter music competitions, and even though I only ever placed among the winners once in the 12 years I took lessons, the experience made me learn how to pick myself up from failure and move on. It was not until adulthood that I realized how valuable this was for me.

Even if my parents and I butted heads when I did not want to practice, it disciplined me to refocus my energy to buckle down and chip away at improving, which showed that hard work and dedication can take you far. If it were not for music, I do not think I would have had the ambition and drive to push myself through Advanced Placement classes in high school, move 5,000 miles away from home for college, and make a living here in New York City, arguably the most competitive city in the world. All thanks to that unforgettable TV concert nearly 20 years ago.

RocklandParent 19

AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES & PROGRAMS The Annual Directory of

County-wide resources to keep kids active & entertained when the school bell sounds

Academy for Martial Arts

8 Orangetown Shopping Center, Orangeburg 845-359-4500 rocklandkarate.com Children are precious. As a parent, you know it is your responsibility to protect your child from all sorts of dangerous situations. It isn’t easy. They grow up fast. Time flies, and eventually children must learn to defend themselves. You certainly do not want your son or daughter to be bullied, or to become a bully. Martial arts lessons are a fantastic solution. Every kid should learn self-defense. It’s like learning to swim—it’s lots of fun, it can save your life, and it builds self-control and self-confidence. After serving the Rockland and Bergen communities for 18 years under a different name, we are now The Academy for Martial Arts, and we have a program that is perfect for your child.

Art Adventure

60 Dutch Hill Road, Suite 8, Orangeburg 845-680-6780 artadventureny.com info@artadventureny.com Beginning in September, Art Adventure will be open for ages 2-18 from 10am-7pm every Tuesday through Friday!

Our certified teachers will also be hosting fine art classes for school-aged children after school. From sculpture to painting, drawing to printmaking, we offer something new and exciting every day. Our low cost monthly memberships enable you to come as often as you like to any programs we have for your child’s age range.

Minicamps also run during all school breaks!

20

Bounce! Trampoline Sports

612 Corporate Way (off Route 303), Valley Cottage 845-268-4000 facebook.com/ bouncetrampolinesports twitter.com/bouncesport bouncevalleycottage.com info@bounceonit.com There is no party place in the tri-state area like Bounce!

Trampoline Sports! Guests jump on 10,000-square-feet of trampolines, bounce off trampoline walls, play trampoline dodgeball and slam-dunk basketball, and somersault into giant foam pits! And now they can enjoy our new Bounce!

Xtreme Ninja Obstacle Course.

We also have a Bounce! Jr. for ages 6 and younger with separate trampoline, foam pit, and giant inflatable obstacle course. Free Wi-Fi, HD television lounge, and snack and coffee bar. At Bounce! “Have Fun–Get Fit!®” Check website for daily Open Jump hours and programs.

BrainCore Therapy

200 Eckerson Road, Suite 280, Spring Valley 917-400-7546 braincoretherapy.com rocklandbergenbraincore@ gmail.com BrainCore neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, is guided exercise for the brain. It is a learning modality designed to retrain dysregulated brainwave patterns. Braincore therapy provides a unique, drugless, and non-invasive approach to treating brainwave dysregulation that may be associated with the symptoms of many neurological-based conditions, including ADD and ADHD, anxiety disorders, Asperger’s syndrome, autism, focus issues,

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

headaches, insomnia, learning disorders, obsessive compulsion disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, seizures, tics, and traumatic brain injuries.

Bricks 4 Kidz - Rockland

121 W. Nyack Road, Suite 11, Nanuet 845-501-7800 b4kcenter.com info@b4kcenter.com Bricks 4 Kidz® offers STEM-principled educational play activities for children ages 3 and older, where they learn, build, and play with Lego® bricks. Our programs are built around proprietary model plans designed by engineers and architects with exciting themes such as space, construction, and amusement parks that provide building blocks for educational play, providing kids with opportunities for problem solving, which helps them develop an appreciation for how things work.

Bricks 4 Kidz® offers after-school enrichment, preschool, WEDO/ EV3 robotics, stop-motion animation classes, birthday parties, camps, in-school workshops, and field trips.

Coupé Theatre Studio

430 Market St., Nanuet 845-623-2808 coupedance.com For more than 45 years, Coupé Theatre Studio has offered the finest training in performing arts. Classes in ballet, pointe, jazz, modern dance, tap, theater dance, hip-hop, musical theater, acting, voice, tots and kinder classes, and programs for boys and adults are available. Coupé’s faculty members hold degrees in dance education, or have had extensive performing careers. Classes are monitored for size, compatibility of students, and quality

of teaching. Come visit us at our new state-of-the-art studio complex on Market Street. Fall 2016 registration is now in progress.

Danceworks

69 Lake Road, Congers 845-268-4669 danceworksrockland.com Danceworks will be offering adult ballet workout classes this summer. In the Clarkstown area for more than 35 years, the studio offers classes in creative dance, pre-ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, and hip-hop for ages 3 through teen. Danceworks specializes in children—encouraging a friendly and non-competitive atmosphere. Several children have gone on to study at the School of American Ballet in Manhattan. Our adult ballet workout (free babysitting) teaches you to work with your body, not against it. Beginners are welcome, and no special clothing is needed. Free trial classes are available to all.

i9 Sports®

Leagues held in all seasons at facilities throughout Rockland 845-624-PLAY (7529) i9sports.com ahenry@i9sports.com Currently enrolling for fall and winter seasons, i9 Sports® is the nation’s first and largest provider of youth sports leagues in the United States. We offer youth sports leagues, camps, and clinics for boys and girls ages 3-14 in today’s most popular sports such as flag football, soccer, basketball, T-ball, and cheerleading. With our focus on fun, safety, convenience, and good sportsmanship, i9 Sports® offers traditional kids’ sports leagues without the traditional headaches! Call for specific sport and field

IS YOUR CHILD STRUGGLING?

information. The earlier you register, the more you save!

JCC Rockland

450 W. Nyack Road, West Nyack 845-362-4400 jccrockland.org membership@jccrockland.org JCC Rockland offers a wide range of activities for children, youth, teens, and families—including dance, fencing, basketball, flag football, fashion design, and cooking. We also offer school-age care, school break programming, community service opportunities, teen leadership and empowerment programming, and family events. There’s something about this place…stop in and see for yourself!

JEP of Rockland Hebrew School

30 Blueberry Hill Road, Monsey 845-558-5858 school@jeprockland.org JEP Rockland’s Bobbi Lewis Hebrew School provides an outstanding Jewish education through our comprehensive curriculum, taught by dynamic, creative teachers in a joyous, loving environment. Inspiring classes for parents and grandparents, family holiday events, mitzvah projects, fantastic Shabbatonim, exciting trips, and an Israel fair are integral parts of the JEP experience.

The JEP Hebrew School provides thorough preparation for bar and bat mitzvah. We also offer a vibrant post-bar and bat mitzvah program for teens.

Reasonable rates. No membership dues.

Kiddie Academy of Northvale

271 Livingston St., Northvale 201-767-1120 kiddieacademy.com/northvale northvale@kiddieacademy.net At Kiddie Academy® of North-

vale, we never take a single moment of your child’s growth potential for granted. We feed your child’s curiosity and instinct to learn with days filled with age-appropriate activities designed to treat every experience as an opportunity to learn.

We believe when children learn at their own pace, they are capable of incredible growth.

That’s the core philosophy of our Life Essentials® curriculum.

Visit our academy, meet our staff, see our classrooms, and play on our playgrounds. Call or click today to schedule your private tour.

Lead Academy

450 S. Main St. (Route 304), New City 845-639-6674 Lead Academy offers after-school classes and tutoring for all academic subjects. We help with all Common Core Curriculum subjects including science, math skills, and logical thinking, and developing reading and writing skills. Our dedicated and experienced teachers help elementary, middle, and high school students with homework, projects, reading challenges, accelerated math, and language arts. We prepare students for the SAT, ACT, SAT II, AP, NYS Common Core Assessments, and Regents exams. Our Power SAT Prep Course runs all year long. Register by Aug. 22 and receive a 10-percent early registration discount.

• ADD/ADHD • Headaches/Migraines • Insomnia • Traumatic Brain Injury

• Learning Disorders • Panic Attacks • Autism / Asperger’s • Stress / Anxiety

BRAINCORE MAY BE YOUR ANSWER! Complete Neurofeedback Evaluation

including Consultation, QEEG Brain Scan, Report of Findings and Recommendations

$150 (reg. $300)

200 Eckerson Rd, Ste 280, Spring Valley, NY BRAINCORETHERAPY.COM

(917) 400-7546

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: ROCKLAND BERGEN BRAINCORE WELLNESS CENTER "My son was failing math and hovering in other subjects. In only 10 sessions, he's brought all of his grades up by at least 12 points. No longer failing anything and a great boost to his self esteem."

-Kristen E. of New City

Are you planning a

Bar/Bat Mitzvah?

Simplify Your Simcha Let’s you keep track of everything from your laptop, tablet or phone.

Save $n1y0mp

use code

Master Jung & Yu Traditional Taekwondo

70 N. Main St., New City 845-638-4000 mytaekwondolife.com Blending Korean culture and philosophy with traditional Taekwondo, Master Jung and Mascontinued on next page ››

Check it out MitzvahOrganizer.com RocklandParent 21

‹‹ continued from previous page

FOR DANCING FEATS

All Ages All Levels Of Experience Boys Welcome!

Dance Birthday Parties

Our 33 rd Year!

CLASSES NOW FORMING

• Hip Hop • Ballet • Jazz • Tap • Pre School • Theater Arts • Pointe • Creative Dance • Twinkle Tutus (ages 2-3) • Dancing Princess (ages 3-4) • Musical & Broadway Dance • Acro/Hip Hop Classes • Ballet Barre Core Workout (Adults) • Award Winning Competition Team -Ages 8-Adult

Ages 2 to Adult

Two Convenient Locations: 719 West Nyack Rd, West Nyack, NY 845-358-5555 (Clarksville Corners)

87 Maple Avenue New City, NY 845-499-2212

www.steeltoesdance.com

Does Your Kid need a haircut?

ter Yu’s school is unique in martial arts training. By combining physical with spiritual, we offer the most complete and satisfying training, embodying mind, body, and spirit. Classes are open seven days a week for all ages. Our unique birthday parties open the door for future leaders and martial artists, and are available on weekends. Energize your whole being at Traditional Taekwondo.

Call for more details.

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.

Standing 85-feet tall, it has five levels and 75 unique challenge elements to explore, climb, and conquer. More advanced athletes will find a challenge, while “just for fun” climbers will experience a sense of athletic accomplishment. Our Sky Tykes kids’ ropes course is designed for ages 2-7, 48-inches tall and shorter. Both courses are available for birthday parties, camp groups, and special events. Book your group today!

Check out our new Sky Rail now open!

Rivertown Music Studio ResouRces ARticles

Find everything you need, faster at

22

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

20 Bridge St., Nyack 845-405-3615 rivertownmusic.net rivertownmusicnyack@gmail.com Rivertown Music Studio in Nyack, brings more than 14 years of experience to its offering of piano, guitar, voice, violin, and drum lessons. A unique, multi-sensory program uses varied resources, instructional options, and performance opportunities to give students of all ages the best potential for success.

Private lessons are customized to fit each student’s ability, musical interests, and learning style. Buddy lessons provide extra motivation, teamwork, and accountability throughout the learning process. Visit our website for programs and rates.

Summer lessons and camp also available. Find us on Facebook and rivertownmusic.net.

Steeltoes Dance Studios

719 W. Nyack Road, West Nyack 845-358-5555 85 Maple Ave., New City 845-499-2212 steeltoesdance.com steeltoesdance@gmail.com In business for 33 years, our dance studio accentuates the positive self-image of every student. Dancers are encouraged to learn in a friendly, non-competitive atmosphere. Experienced and caring teachers provide personal attention to you and your child’s needs. Classes are available for all ages and levels of ability from preschool to adult. Hip-Hop, Pointe, Musical Theater, Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Preschool Interpretive Dance, and Acro/Hip-Hop are all features of our exciting Dancing Feats Program. Become part of our dance energy today! Offering two great locations in West Nyack and New City.

Tech Adventure

404 E. Route 59, Nanuet 845-627-7000 techadventureny.com info@techadventureny.com Get your child excited about STEM! We teach relevant applications using things they already love, such as Minecraft, robots, and YouTube, to teach computer programming, electrical engineering, and 3-D design and animation using those fun activities. To them, we are a playground filled with their favorite hobbies, but moms and dads know we are providing solid education in important and fast-growing fields. Tap into your child’s love of learning today: try one of our classes or sign up for our mini-camp programs. It could change your child’s path in life!

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics and Fitness

401 Market St., Nanuet Mall South, Nanuet 845-623-2553 tumble-beegymnastics.com Tumble-Bee Gymnastics and Fitness is more than just tumbling. We offer an education in gymnastics, fitness, and fun. Celebrating our 30th year in Rockland, we offer private birthday parties, and programs

for children ages 10 months to 12 years. Our preschool program offers exciting lessons and theme weeks. We teach the nationally recognized Fun & Fit Gymnastics program and International Smart Moves for our after-school program. Our staff is warm, caring, and well-trained to work with your child building confidence and self-esteem to achieve success in the future.

Vicki’s Dance Studio and Kreative Kids

61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202 vickistudio.com For more than 30 years, we have been inspiring and motivating students to follow their dreams both in dance and in their lives. Instructors at Vicki’s Studio are dedicated to their students and teaching technique, while creating fun and exciting choreography in our non-competitive studio.

We offer beginner to advanced classes for boys and girls ages 2½ to adult, including jazz, tap, hip-hop, ballet, pointe,

lyrical, modern, creative movement, boys’ hip-hop, gymnastics, combination classes, and our new musical theater classes.

For experienced dancers, we also offer a competitive dance team (try-outs required).

Creating Beautiful, Healthy Smiles For the Whole Family!

West Rock Indoor Sports and Entertainment Complex

21 Pralle Lane, Nanuet 845-623-3636 westrockindoor.com Rockland’s premier facility for sports training, development, birthday parties, and special events offers programs for children and adults in basketball, soccer, lacrosse, baseball, tennis, and fitness. Our skilled staff ensures your child has the perfect mix of fun, physical activity, and training. Whether it’s our Basketball Academy, Tiny Tots Soccer classes for young children, or revamped tennis academy, we offer plenty of programs to meet your child’s needs, no matter his or her age or ability. Allow West Rock to be your one and only stop for your family’s sports and entertainment needs!

Dr. Marita Smith, DDS · Board Certified Pediatric Dentist · Treating Infancy through Adolescence · Nitrous Oxide Option for Children · Gentle, caring environment

Dr. Roman Izmailov, DDS Dr. Anna Alekseyeva, DDS · Over 30 years experience in general, implant, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry · State of the art dental care and facility

A&R Advanced Dental Group | 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-364-9400 | www.ARadvanceddental.com Evening Appointments Available · Most Insurances Accepted

Register NOW!

Find us at:

facebook.com/i9sports

FALL Flag Football, Basketball, Lacrosse, Soccer, T-Ball & Cheerleading Leagues and Programs!

The earlier you register, the more you save!

• Organized programs for boys & girls, ages 3-14 • Focused on fun, safe play and convenience • Just one day a week. All skill levels welcome. No tryouts!

• NEW weekday multisport instructional programs

Convenient locations throughout Rockland Registration ends 8/27/16|Fall season starts 9/10/16

Helping Kids Succeed in Life Through Sports

®

Register Online: www.i9sports.com or Call: (845) 624-7529 Each location independently owned and operated.

i9sports.com

Want to know the best activities for families?

Subscribe to our family activity email newsletter.

NYMetroParents.com/signup

845-268-4000

www.BounceValleyCottage.com 612 Corporate Way, Valley Cottage, NY Twitter: @BounceSport • Facebook.com/BounceTrampolineSports RocklandParent 23

Outings: Prospect Park Zoo

nymetroparents.com/outings

Explore Wildlife in the Heart of Brooklyn 1

2

3

Julie Larsen Maher © WCS

Home to a plethora of exotic animals, Prospect Park Zoo serves as an escape from the racing city life for families. ›› By Megan Bailey

4

1 You can see red pandas climbing trees or snoozing on branches on the zoo’s outdoor Discovery Trail. 2 A Jacob’s four-horn sheep lives in the zoo’s domestic Barn and Garden exhibit, where you can take a turn feeding grain to some of the animals. 3 The Australian dingo exhibit is also on the zoo’s Discovery Trail. 4 These tiny Juliana pigs can also be found in the Barn and Garden exhibit.

In the late 1800s, Prospect Park Zoo first operated a tiny menagerie with livestock and limited wildlife—sheep, cows, rabbits, birds—up until its first public opening in 1935. Since then, the zoo has made quite an impression on city residents. There is something for every animal-lover to enjoy, from sea lions to red pandas to baboons.

Year-Round Fun

If you decide to do a simple self-guided tour, there are five exhibits you should check out.

Animal Lifestyles includes the nocturnal and furry Pallas’ cats, as well as birds, lizards, and fish. At Barn and Garden, you can feed animals grain as if it’s a normal thing to do in New York City. Here, you can see sheep, cows, horses, chickens, and two unique species of farm animals that are sure to be crowd-pleasers: a Zebu calf and three little Juliana pigs. In the outdoor Discovery Trail, you will find red pandas hanging on tree branches, a black-tailed prairie dog roaming around, and the North-American river otter exhibit. In the unique Hall of Animals exhibit, children can enjoy smaller creatures, whether it’s a dwarf mongoose, dart frog, or 24

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Madagascar jumping rat. A visit to the zoo isn’t complete without stopping by the Sea Lion Court, a popular exhibit at the heart of the park.

At the Discovery Center, children can interact with animals up close in a fun yet educational space. This can be through playing pretend as a veterinarian or utilizing any of the classroom and laboratory equipment available to learn about the art of zoology. The Discovery Center is open Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm.

Special Activities

At the Sea Lion Court, there is an opportunity to participate in Sea Lion Training Sessions, daily at 11:30am, 2pm, and 4pm.

Guided tours are available for Scout troops, during which they will learn more about wildlife and environmental conservation, and can even earn the Prospect Park Zoo Patch.

Teachers: If you are looking for an exciting and educational field trip, the Prospect Park Zoo is a great opportunity.

You may bring groups on self-guided

tours, receive an official tour from a park guide, or participate in classes.

Annual Attractions

Prospect Park Zoo’s Summer Camp gives children ages pre-K to eighth grades the opportunity to explore wildlife in a weeklong session. This includes live animal encounters, creative art projects, interactive games, science experiments, exhibit visits and meeting zookeeper staff, role-play, and theatrical exercises. Campers are split into groups by age. Cost, session dates, and times vary for each group.

Details

Address: 450 Flatbush Ave., Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Brooklyn Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 25-minute drive from New City Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday and holidays, 10am-5:30pm Admission: $8; $6 seniors ages 65 and older; $5 children ages 3-12; free for children ages 2 and younger For more information: 718-399-7339 or prospectparkzoo.com

The Only Resource a Family Needs to Plan Their Child’s Simcha

Do you want the BEST IDEAS for your celebration?

MitzvahMarket.com Sign up to receive a FREE e-newsletter at MitzvahMarket.com/signup

www.facebook.com/MitzvahMarket

twitter.com/MitzvahMarket

pinterest.com/source/mitzvahmarket.com

RocklandParent 25

Mitzvah Market magazine Your Source for Ideas & Inspiration Get Your FREE Copy New Issue in 2016

2015-2016

MIT ZVA HM ARK ET.C

.

OM

Your single source for:

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

FREE COPY

I want a free copy of the 2016 Mitzvah Market magazine Name

How to create

a Program for Your Service

Homeland CeleMibrtzvatahion Planning a Bar/Bat in Israel

Address State

Phone

Email

Zip

26

Photo Credit: André Maier

Photo Credit: Beth Capuano

Davler Media Group Fax: 212.271.2239 • Call: 914.290.4716 Email: Distribution@davlermedia.com 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor New York, NY 10018

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

GRO UP PUB LICA TION A DAV LER MED IA

Photo Credit: André Maier

City

Get This Party Started!

a Fun Ways to Make Grand Entrance

Mitzva

h

Family Spotligh ts

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on NY Renaissance Faire (No. 9 on our list).

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

t

nyme

com/c

ents. ropar

august calendar

28 Editor’s Hot Tickets 30 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!,

Fun Fairs & Festivals 31 Browse & Buy,

Must-Sees in NYC Want us to include your event?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent updated daily at nymetroparents.com/calendar Editor: Samantha Beranbom rpeditor@davlermedia.com

32 Mini Musicians

33 Show Time!,

Movers & Shakers 34 Smarty Pants 35 On Screen,

Once Upon a Time

8

Editor’s Hot Tickets

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the nine events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!

1

Summer Kids Concert: Kurt Gallagher FREE

WHEN: Monday, Aug. 1, 7pm WHERE: Village of Suffern, Village Gazebo, Suffern AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Bring a lawn chair or blanket to see the family music performer Kurt Gallagher.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Dance and sing outdoors with this local legend is what summer fun is all about.

WANT TO GO? 845-357-7943. suffernvillage.com.

Ridgewood Sidewalk Sale Days FREE

WHEN: Aug. 4-6, Thursday-Saturday, 10am WHERE: Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Ridgewood, Ridgewood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy participating local shops, restaurants, and experience all that downtown has to offer.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Any excuse to spend the day in this charming town.

WANT TO GO? experienceridgewood.com.

2

3 28

A Summer Garden Market: Cornell Cooperative Extension

WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 9, 3:30pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore the workings and allure of these amazing places with an inventive game of healthy fruits and vegetables, a visit to a model farmers’ market with tastings of more unusual organic produce, stretching into various garden-friendly poses, followed by the construction of recyclable newspaper seedling pots to take home.

Registration required.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A unique opportunity for kids to learn about healthy eating and mindfulness.

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

4

Rockland Boulders: Star Wars Night

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 12, 7pm WHERE: Palisades Credit Union Park, 1 Provident Bank Park Drive, Pomona AGES: All WHAT: Many Star Wars characters will be in attendance and the players will wear special Star Wars jerseys to be auctioned off during the game. The night will benefit the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center.

WHY WE LOVE IT: America’s favorite pastime for a good cause, plus America’s favorite movie characters equals a home run!

WANT TO GO? $11-$15 based on seating. 845-364-0009. rocklandboulders.com.

Danceworks

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

nymetroparents.com/register ››

Ballet Workout

Develop a lean, strong dancer’s body with flexibility and grace

Learn to work with your body, not against it

5

Bubblemania FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 13, 10am-1pm WHERE: Westfield Garden State Plaza, Macy’s Court Level 2, 1 Garden State Plaza, Paramus, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Watch creations grow from intricate and imaginative bubble art forms to trapping people inside bubbles.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Who doesn’t love bubbles?

WANT TO GO? 212-986-7080. westfield.com.

Taste the Season: Tomatoes FREE

• • • • •

Barre stretch • Mat Work • Reverance 10 week session $75 or $10/class • Free Babysitting Monday & Wednesday 9:30-10:45 • Free Trial Class No prior training necessary • Beginners Welcome No special clothing needed • All Levels

For Adults & Kids 69 Lake Road • Congers

Call for details and brochure 845-268-4669

6

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 14, 11:30am-1:30pm WHERE: Down to Earth Farmers Market, Ash Street and Piermont Avenue, Piermont AGES: All WHAT: Taste how wonderful fresh, locally grown tomatoes can taste.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Possibly our most favorite thing about the season: summer tomatoes. Yum! WANT TO GO? 914-923-4837. downtoearthmarkets.com.

7

Summer Movies in the Park FREE

WHEN: Aug. 4-25, Thursdays, 8pm WHERE: Veteran’s Park, Broadway and Third Avenue, Westwood, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a family-friendly movie with free popcorn.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Nothing better than a summer night under the stars with family, a favorite flick, and popcorn!

WANT TO GO? 201-664-7882. westwoodnj.gov.

Slide The City

8

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 27, 9am-6pm WHERE: Nyack, Main Street and North Midland Avenue, Nyack AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Slide the City is a family-friendly slip-and-slide event. There will be live music, food, drinks, water, and of course the biggest slip-and-slide ever to hit asphalt.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This is pretty much our childhood fantasy come true!

WANT TO GO? $18 and up. slidethecity.com.

9

Angie’s List Award Winner

Visit Us At Our Newly Expanded

We’re closer than you think!

Just 2 miles from Rockland.

NEW online appointment booking for sick visits.

Equipped with an in-house lab and the latest in visual/hearing testing.

Call about evening hours for check ups.

201.326.7120 TenaflyPediatrics.com

Tenafly • Clifton • Oakland • Fort Lee • Paramus • Park Ridge

NY Renaissance Faire

WHEN: Aug. 6–Oct. 2; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Sterling Forest, 600 Route 17A, Tuxedo Park AGES: All WHAT: The faire is a rollicking romp through Elizabethan England complete with 16th century games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music, and dance set within the majestic groves of Tuxedo Park. Check the website for the stage schedule, special events, and theme weekend details.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A trip back in time in our own backyard!

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 seniors and military; $12 children ages 5-12; free for children 4 and younger. 845-351-5174. renfaire.com/ny. ››

Englewood Wyckoff • Norwood, NJ

Bronxville Woodcliff Lake

Pinatas • Crafts • Entertainment • Sombreros • Birthday Cake (packages range from $8.95 - $21.00 per child)

for party info

201.848.4088 • www.bluemoonmexicancafe.com RocklandParent 29

We can’t believe it’s FREE Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the six no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome.

CSI Potluck Dinner and Friday Night Service FREE

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 12, 5:30pm WHERE: Congregation Sons of Israel, 300 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Bring a parve dish that serves eight, in a disposable container that does not have to be reheated, and a chair or blanket to sit on.

Drinks will be supplied.

WANT TO GO? 845-358-3767. csinyack.org.

Crafternoon FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 13, 2pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Stop by the library to make a fun craft to take home.

Registration required.

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

Family Game Night FREE

WHEN: Monday, Aug. 15, 6pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: All WHAT: Bring the whole family to the library to play some board games together, including Jenga, Scrabble, and Chutes and Ladders.

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

Rachel’s Rangers FREE

WHEN: Aug. 4-18, Thursdays, 10am-12pm WHERE: Allison Park, Hudson Terrace, Englewood Cliffs, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Each hike will cover roughly 3 miles of relatively easy trails and will last approximately 2 hours. Children who complete two or more of the hikes will be awarded a certificate naming them an official “Rachel’s Ranger.”

WANT TO GO? 201-768-1360. njpalisades.org.

Tu B’Av Open House and Musical Friday Night FREE

Fun Fairs & Festivals Bird Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 6, 11am-3pm WHERE: Trailside Museums & Zoo, Bear Mountain State Park, Bear Mountain AGES: All WHAT: Learn more about the owls, hawks, and other birds that call Trailside home. Participate in the Bird Olympics and see if you could make it through a great migration, and enjoy nature crafts, face painting, and amphitheater programs.

WANT TO GO? $10 parking fee. 845-786-2701 x293. trailsidezoo.org.

Bear Mountain PowWow 2016

WHEN: Aug. 6-7, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-8pm WHERE: Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, Harriman State Park, Palisades Interstate Parkway, Bear Mountain AGES: All WHAT: Come for a great day full of Native American song, dance, artists, food, and more.

WANT TO GO? $12; $8 children ages 6-12; $10 seniors and students; $6 parking fee. 718-686-9297. redhawkcouncil.org.

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 19, 5pm WHERE: Congregation Sons of Israel, 300 N. Broadway, Upper Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Come celebrate Tu B’Av, a holiday of love. Join CSI as Hazzan Kasper and Rabbi Zoe B. Zak, lead the service incorporating original and traditional melodies.

WANT TO GO? 845-358-3767. csinyack.org.

Owl Day

3-D Fun FREE

Car Show

WHEN: Monday, Aug. 29, 7-8pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Using a 3-D pen, create unique and fantastic 3-D art.

Registration required.

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

30

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Aug. 6-7, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm WHERE: Bergen County Zoo, Van Saun County Park, Paramus, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy crafts, animal encounters, and learn all about owls.

WANT TO GO? $8; $5 children ages 3-14; $2 seniors; free for children younger than 3. 201-262-3771. co.bergen.nj.us/parks.

WHEN: Aug. 10-17, Wednesdays, 5-9pm WHERE: Bear Mountain State Park, Palisades Interstate Parkway, Bear Mountain AGES: All WHAT: Families will enjoy a DJ, a bounce house, and cool classic cars.

Food and beverages available for purchase.

WANT TO GO? $5 per vehicle. 845-786-2731. nysparks.com.

Browse & buy

CityBound

Must-Sees in N Y C

Ramapo Farmers’ Market FREE

Forrest Clonts

WHEN: Through Oct. 9: Sundays, 9am-4pm WHERE: Eugene Levy Parking Lot, Route 45, Pomona AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy local produce, fresh goods, and more.

WANT TO GO? 845-357-6100. ramapoparks.org.

Haverstraw Farmers’ Market FREE

Suffern Farmers’ Market FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 29: Saturdays, 8:30am-1pm WHERE: Commuter Parking Lot A, Orange and Wayne avenues, Suffern AGES: All WHAT: This community-focused market provides fresh, locally grown, and nutritious produce; prepared foods; grass-fed beef; farm fresh eggs; baked goods; handmade gifts; and more. Enjoy craft vendors, children’s activities, and live entertainment.

WANT TO GO? suffernchamber.org.

Piermont Farmers’ Market FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 20: Sundays, 9:30am-3pm WHERE: M&T Bank Parking Lot, Piermont Avenue and Ash Street, Piermont AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy local produce, area food makers who source locally, seasonal tastings, music, and more.

WANT TO GO? 914 923-4837. downtoearthmarkets.com.

Catch the next big thing in kids’ theater at FringeJR.

Tiny Thespians Don’t miss this year’s kid- and teen-friendly picks from The 20th Annual New York International Fringe Festival (FringeNYC), the largest multi-arts festival in North America. A great chance to see the next big show before anyone else, the festival features a selection of fun productions for kids (FringeJR) and teens (FringeHigh). Previous hits include last year’s Commedia Rapunzel (pictured) that went on to become one of the most popular kids shows of 2015. Aug. 12-28; see website for schedule. Ages 5 and older. $18, $13 for children younger than 12 (only available in person). Various theaters, see website for locations. 917-745-3397. fringenyc.org.

Courtesy NYC DOT

WHEN: Through Oct. 9: Sundays, 9am-1pm WHERE: Haverstraw, Villiage Hall, Maple Avenue, Haverstraw AGES: All WHAT: Support local businesses and the community with fresh produce, jams, spices, and more.

WANT TO GO? voh-ny.com.

Nyack Outdoor Farmers’ Market FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 25: Thursdays, 8am-2pm WHERE: Main Street Parking Lot, Depew Avenue and South Broadway, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Featuring more than 30 vendors specializing in locally sourced produce, fresh fish, grass-fed beef, prepared foods, and artisanal crafts.

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

Ramsey Farmers’ Market FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 27: Sundays, 9am-2pm WHERE: Main Street Train Station, Ramsey, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Start the month with the annual Peach Festival and continue with more than 50 local farmers and food purveyors, music, scheduled children’s crafts, books signings, chef demos, and more.

WANT TO GO? 201-675-6866. ramseyfarmersmarket.org.

Spring Valley Farmers’ Market FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 30: Wednesdays, 8am-3pm WHERE: Main and Church streets, Spring Valley AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy fresh local produce, goods, and more.

WANT TO GO? 914-923-4837. rocklandgov.com. ››

Did someone say giant water slide in Manhattan? We’re in!

The Slide’s the Limit Part block party, part hike, part urban beach, part bike tour, Summer Streets 2016 is not to be missed. For three Saturdays in a row, 7 miles of Manhattan’s streets will be closed off to traffic, giving you the chance to explore and enjoy a ton of fun activities including a giant zip line, food and drink, street art, and yoga.

The best bit? The giant water slide! Aug. 6, 13, and 20; 7am-1pm.

Age: All. Free. Between Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park, along Park Avenue and connecting streets (as far as East 72nd Street), registrations required for Vita Coco Beach Slide, see website for details. nyc.gov.

RocklandParent 31

mini

Musicians Munchkin Mondays Summer Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Monday, Aug. 8, 11am WHERE: Palisades Center, East Court Level 1, Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Sing and dance along with Funki Jam for a musical adventure.

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

Mostly Music Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Aug. 2-16, Tuesdays, 7:30pm WHERE: Memorial Park, Piermont Avenue and Depew Street, Nyack AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy music and fun at the park presented by the Village of Nyack and Friends of the Nyacks.

WANT TO GO? 845-358-0548. nyack-ny.gov.

Summer Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 18: Thursdays, 7pm WHERE: Bear Mountain State Park, Palisades Interstate Parkway, Bear Mountain AGES: All WHAT: Bring a lawn chair or a blanket to enjoy the concert on the main playfield. Food and beverages available for purchase.

WANT TO GO? 845-786-2701. nysparks.com.

Summer Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 24: Wednesdays, 7pm WHERE: Riverfront Park, 25 Grassy Point Road, Stony Point AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy live music under the summer sky. Check the website for more information.

WANT TO GO? 845-947-5261. townofstonypoint.org.

Family Music Festival FREE

WHEN: Aug. 2-24, Tuesday-Wednesday, 7:30pm WHERE: Town of Clarkstown, various park locations, Clarkstown AGES: All WHAT: This year’s Family Music Festival will feature a wide variety 32

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

of family concert artists and groups. Check website for park locations, performers, and updates. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs.

WANT TO GO? 845-639-2000. clarkstown.org.

The Bossy Frog Band FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 25, 11am WHERE: Nyack Farmers’ Market, 119 Main St., Nyack AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Award-winning children’s musicians perform a free concert at the Nyack Farmer’s Market. Banjo, fiddle, bass, and a costume character dancing frog.

WANT TO GO? 845-642-0859. bossyfrog.com.

Summer Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Aug. 2–Sept. 1; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7pm WHERE: Borough of Tenafly, Huyler Park, 1 Piermont Road and Davis Johnson Park, Engle Street, Tenafly, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Picnic in the park while listening to live performances at Huyler Park on Tuesdays and Davis Johnson Park on Thursdays.

WANT TO GO? tenaflynj.org.

Summer Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Aug. 4–Sept. 4; Thursdays, 7:30pm WHERE: Bowline Point Park, Bowline Road, Haverstraw AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy late summer nights with live performances in the park.

Check website for more details.

WANT TO GO? 845-429-2200. townofhaverstraw.org.

Summer Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 8: Thursdays, 6-8pm WHERE: The Shops at Nanuet, 5101 Fashion Drive, Nanuet AGES: All WHAT: Residents can enjoy live performances, complimentary nibbles, retailer-hosted programs, and family amenities in a relaxing outdoor environment.

WANT TO GO? 845-367-9452. facebook.com/shopsatnanuet.

Planning an Activity SHOW TIME! or Event for Children ‘Les Miserables School Edition’ WHEN: Aug. 5-7, Friday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: PAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ or Bergen Families?

AGES: All

Planning an Activity or Event for Children or Families?

WHAT: An epic uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit.

WANT TO GO? $14-$44. 201-227-1030. bergenpac.org.

ABBA the Concert: A Tribute to ABBA

WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 9, 8pm WHERE: Bergen PAC, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This musical extravaganza features original members of the band’s rhythm section with a dynamic vocal quartet.

WANT TO GO? $29-$59. 201-227-1030. bergenpac.org.

Get FREE Exposure on

Get FREE Exposure on

Fairf ieldParent.com

NYMetroParents.com

16

s 20 e i t i v i t c Family A

FringeJR and FringeHigh

WHEN: Aug. 12-28, daily, see website for times WHERE: Various theaters, see website, Lower East Side, Manhattan a Frid AGES: 5 and older y a d s rs u WHAT: Don’t miss this year’s kid Tand h teen-friendly picks from 6 The 20th y daInternational annual New York Fringe Festival (FringeNYC). s e n d e W TO GO? $18; $13 for 5children younger than 12. 917-745-3397.

WANT fringenyc.org.

4

Movers & Shakers e us o H n Ope JCC at

Fa

d Wednes

18 vs. Trois Rivieres Boulders

WHEN: Aug. 8-11, Monday-Thursday, 7pm WHERE: Palisades Credit Union Park, 1 Provident Bank Park Drive, 27 Pomona 6 AGES: All 2 WHAT: Watch the Rockland Boulders take on Trois Rivieres and 25 enjoy a night of fun.

WANT TO GO? $11-$15. 845-364-0009. rocklandboulders.com.

Frida

6

5

se u o H Open JCC at

13

12

12

11 Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2-3pm WHEN: WHERE: Orangeburg Library, 20 S. Greenbush Road, Orangeburg AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Bring a mat and some water and enjoy the stretching. 20 WANT TO GO? 845-359-2244. orangeburg-library.org.

19

ay

y Thurssda

4

13

Teen and Tween Yoga FREE

016

s2 e i t i v i t c mily A

11

20

19

18 27 26 25

Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 27, 9:30am WHERE: USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows Corona Park Road, Flushing, Queens AGES: All your entries online to Submit WHAT: Features a ticketed Stadium Show and concert, a free Fairfi GroundseldParent.com/submitevent Festival, which includes interactive games, face painting, and more, and asubject chance to getto a look at the biggest stars of tennis.

All entries editor’s review WANT TO GO? $10-$25 concert tickets; free for all other events. and acceptance.

718-760-6200. arthurashekidsday.com. ››

Submit your entries online to

NYMetroParents.com/submitevent All entries subject to editor’s review and acceptance.

Announce it to more than 100,000 parents who are visiting Fairf ieldParent.com every month.

Announce it to more than 100,000 parents who are visiting NYMetroParents.com every month.

Be featured on the largest family activities Calendar in the metropolitan New York area.

Be featured on the largest family activities Calendar in the metropolitan New York area.

RocklandParent 33

smarty pants Wii Gaming and Minecraft FREE

WHEN: Monday, Aug. 1, 4pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Bring a handheld device or play Minecraft with a personal account on the library’s laptops. Wii will also be set up to play.

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

Minecraft Challengers FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 13, 3pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Play and talk everything Minecraft.

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

Public Planetarium Show

briefing session and then select tasks to perform on the mission.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 for children younger than 9 and seniors. 845357-3416. lhvcc.com.

Builders Club FREE

WHEN: Monday, Aug. 22, 7-8pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Build with Legos, K’NEX, Lincoln Logs, and littleBits.

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

Teen Board Game and Chess Club FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 24, 4pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Come by the library to learn and play chess as well as board games such as Scrabble, Uno, and Mancala, and pick a favorite.

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

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 14, 2-4pm WHERE: Town of Ramapo Challenger Center, 225 Route 59, Airmont AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Following a 1-hour planetarium show, participants will take part in a hands-on astronomy-related project in the activity room. A funfilled way for the entire family to explore and learn about the wonders of the universe.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 for children younger than 9 and seniors. 845357-3416. lhvcc.com.

Summer Science 101

Lego Build Event FREE

WHEN: Aug. 5-26, Fridays, 4-5pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Different programs every week, including Builder’s Club, games, fun with 3-D pens, Code Club, and Science Squad.

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

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 20, 4pm WHERE: Barnes & Noble Booksellers: Palisades Center, Nanuet and Paramus, NJ locations, check website for addresses AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Participants will get to explore their creativity on this entertaining, team-building occasion.

WANT TO GO? barnesandnoble.com.

Public Space Mission

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 21, 2-5pm WHERE: Town of Ramapo Challenger Center, 225 Route 59, Airmont AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about comets, mysterious objects made of rock, ice, and dust that are among the oldest, most primitive bodies in the Solar System. Just like the real astronauts, public crewmembers will attend a

WHEN: Through Aug. 25: Thursdays, 6pm WHERE: Bergen County Zoo, Van Saun County Park, Paramus, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Come discuss the Earth and the amazing flora and fauna that inhabit it, at this basic science class.

WANT TO GO? $8; $5 children ages 3-14; $2 seniors; free for children younger than 3. 201-262-3771. co.bergen.nj.us/parks.

Friday Fun FREE

Science in Action FREE

WHEN: Aug. 10-31, Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Participate in fun chemistry, physics, and technology experiments to discover more about the world around you.

Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 847-578-6380. hkdpl.org.

Dennis Oppenheim: Terrestrial Studio and Outlooks: Josephine Halvorson

WHEN: Through Nov. 27: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5:30pm WHERE: Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor AGES: All WHAT: Dennis Oppenheim: Terrestrial Studio is an exhibition featuring outdoor and indoor sculpture, installation, sound, film, and photography. Josephine Halvorson is featured in the annual Outlooks series, which invites one emerging or mid-career contemporary artist to create a new, site-specific work.

WANT TO GO? $15; $12 seniors; $8 children ages 5-18 and students; free for children 4 and younger. 845-534-3115. stormkingartcenter.org.

34

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

ON screen Family Movie Night FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 4, 7:30pm WHERE: Rockland County Courthouse Lawn, Main Street and New Hempstead Road, New City AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a free movie and popcorn. Bring a blanket or beach chairs.

WANT TO GO? 845-403-1642. newcitychamber.com.

Family Film Friday FREE

WHEN: Aug. 5-19, Fridays, 3pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: All WHAT: Stop by the library and watch a movie connected to this year’s Summer Read Program theme, On Your Mark, Get Set, Read!

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

WHAT: Listen to stories, make crafts, and more. Registration required.

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

Fan of Fiction Book Club FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 25, 5pm WHERE: Rose Memorial Library, 79 E. Main St., Stony Point AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join other teens to discuss favorite books, authors, and genres.

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

Tales and Tunes FREE

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 26, 11am-12pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Village Branch, 85 Main St., Haverstraw AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Enjoy stories, songs, bubbles, and more. Registration required.

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

Family Movie FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 24: Wednesdays, 7-8pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: All WHAT: Watch a family-friendly movie every Wednesday night this summer.

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

Family Movie FREE

WHEN: Aug. 16-30, Tuesdays, 7pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: All WHAT: Come in and enjoy a movie with your family.

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

Coming up next month: Sept. 10: Ramsey Day, Ramsey, NJ Sept. 17: Biodiversity Celebration, Trailside Zoo, Bear Mountain Sept. 22: Russian Grand Ballet’s Swan Lake, Bergen PAC, Englewood, NJ

Do you need a location for his 7th birthday party?

Movies Under the Stars FREE

WHEN: Aug. 10–Sept. 1, Thursdays, 8pm WHERE: City of Hackensack, Atlantic Street Park, Hackensack, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Check website for schedule.

WANT TO GO? 201-646-3980. hackensack.org.

ResouRces ARticles

ONce upon a time Preschool Storytime FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 23: Tuesdays, 7-8pm WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Listen to storie, songs, and more. Registration required.

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

Stories and Crafts FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 24: Mondays, 2-2:45pm; Wednesdays, 10:30am-11:15am WHERE: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, Main Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville AGES: 3-5

Find everything you need, faster at

RocklandParent 35

WHERE-TO Guide

Pick Your Own Berries ››

Research by Melissa Wickes

Enjoy the sweet fruits of summer by picking your own berries at a local farm! Kids will love plucking fresh strawberries, blackberries, and even cherries straight from the bush. Many of these farms also have farm stands at which you can purchase pre-picked fruits, baked goods, and fresh juices. Want even more farm fun? Lots of our picks offer hayrides and activities to keep kids busy after they’ve collected their basket of fruit.

Note that dates and availability are projected. We recommend calling ahead before visiting these farms.

Burlington County Johnson’s Corner Farm 133 Church Road, Medford 609-654-8643; johnsonsfarm.com Open daily, 8am-7pm Pick your own blueberries through mid-August; peaches through the end of August; and sweet corn through end of August. Hayrides offered MondayFriday, 10am-1pm, and Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4pm; plus Wednesday and Friday, 5-7pm (Wednesday and Friday evening hayrides through August are free). Farm market, bakery, and produce hours are daily, 8am-7pm; ice cream window open until 9pm. Wednesday night is Family Fun Night from 5-8pm. Friday nights are Cruise Car Nights, when you can drive your classic car to the farm and receive a free ice cream.

Orange County Ochs Orchard 4 Ochs Lane (off Reservoir Road, Route 94), Warwick 845-986-1591 ochsorchard.net Open daily, 9am-5pm (subject to availability) Pick your own strawberries peaches, apples, blueberries, blackberries, tomatoes, and raspberries daily through October. Farm stand with pre-picked produce open daily, 9am-6pm.

Dutchess County Barton Orchards 63 Apple Tree Lane (County Route 7), Poughquag 845-227-2306 bartonorchards.com Open daily, 9am-5pm Pick your own berries and garden vegetables from late July through midAugust. On-site farm store with prepicked produce, honey, jams and jellies, and more.

36

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Greig Farm 223 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook 845-758-1234; greigfarm.com Open daily, 8am-8pm Pick your own blueberries and raspberries in July; blueberries and blackberries in August; and apples and raspberries in September. Nursery and garden shop onsite. Kids can feed goats and visit the koi fish pond behind Grandiflora Nursery.

The Hudson Valley Farmers Market at the Grieg Farm is open every Saturday, 10am3pm, offering local vegetables, fruits, eggs, cheeses, meats, fish, flowers, and more from local Hudson Valley Farms.

New Jersey Bergen County Demarest Farms 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale 201-666-0472; demarestfarms.com Open daily, 8am-6:30pm Pick your own peaches. Farm market with pre-picked seasonal fruits and vegetables for sale. Baby animal feeding at store.

Cape May County The Allen Family Farm 26 Tarkiln Road, Belleplain 609-861-3778 (Blueberry information) 609-412-1742 (Fresh produce information) Open daily from sunup to sundown; call ahead to verify hours Pick your own blueberries, tomatoes, corn, green beans, sweet potatoes, and white potatoes, depending on the season.

Produce is unsprayed.

Hunterdon County Califon Farm Stand & Orchard 472 County Road 513, Califon 908-832-2905 melickstownfarm.com Open daily, 9am-6pm Pick your own yellow and white peaches through September. On-site store with fresh produce, ice cream, and baked goods.

Melick’s Town Farm Apple Orchard: 19 King St., Oldwick Strawberry Patch: Farmers Market at 170 Oldwick Road, Oldwick

nymetroparents.com/where-to Peaches: 472 County Road 513, Califon 908-439-2318 melickstownfarm.com Open daily, 9am-6pm Pick your own peaches JulySeptember. Call about other seasonal pickings.

Phillips Farms 290 Church Road, Milford 908-995-0022 phillipsfarms.com Open daily, 8am-6pm (U-Pick closed on Tuesdays) Pick your own black and red raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, peaches, and apples (call for availability). Farm stand with a variety of fresh produce.

Schaefer Farms 1051 Flemington/Whitehouse Road (County Route 523), Flemington 908-782-2705 schaeferfarms.com Open Monday-Saturday, 9:30am-6pm; Sunday, 10am5pm (changes in the fall) Pick your own blackberries July-August and raspberries through August. Farm stand with homegrown sweet corn, a variety of vegetables, and Nutrena seeds. Farm-grown eggs, pork, chicken, duck, and beef also available.

Valley Crest Farm 14 Allerton Road, Lebanon 908-238-9696 valleycrestfarmnj.org Open weekends, 10am-3pm (through Nov. 1) Pick your own peaches through September and apples through late October. Call for availability. Farm stand with pre-picked vegetables and fruit is located at 66 Allerton Road; open daily, 9am-6pm.

Mercer County Lee Turkey Farm 201 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor

609-448-0629 leeturkeyfarm.com Open Monday-Saturday, 9am6pm; Sunday, 2-6pm; last admission at 5:15pm Pick your own raspberries, peaches, strawberries, cherries, apples, and nectarines (call for availability). On-site market with sweet corn and homemade pies.

Terhune Orchards 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton 609-924-2310 terhuneorchards.com Open daily, 9am-6pm, though hours may vary Pick your own blackberries through August. Check website for other seasonal pickings. On-site store with pre-picked produce, certified organic veggies, and baked goods. Hosts different festivals throughout the year (check website for dates). Fresh seasonal flowers available. Onsite winery and tasting room open Friday-Sunday, 12-5pm.

Middlesex County Stults Farm 146 Cranbury Neck Road, Plainsboro Township 609-799-2523 stultsfarm.com Open daily, 10am-6pm Sign up for email alerts on the website to be notified when blueberries become available for picking. Farm stand onsite with a variety of fruits and vegetables for purchase.

Von Thun’s Country Farm Market 505 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction 732-329-8656 vonthunfarms.com Open daily, 9am-6pm (U-pick ends at 5pm) Pick your own blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, vegetables, and more. Call for availability. On-site market with pre-picked vegetables and plants.

Monmouth County Battleview Orchards 91 Wemrock Road, Freehold 732-462-0756 battlevieworchards.com Open daily, 9am-6pm Pick sour cherries through midJuly; peaches from July through mid-September; and nectarines from late July through August.

All dates can change depending on supply and the weather.

Country store and a bakery onsite with fresh local produce.

Homemade apple cider in September and homegrown corn and tomatoes for purchase.

Earth Friendly Organic Farm and Bed & Breakfast 17 Olde Noah Hunt Road, Millstone Township 609-259-9744 earthfriendlyorganicfarm.com Open daily, 9am-5pm Pick your own blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries starting in mid-June.

Call ahead or email roz@ earthfriendlyorganicfarm.com to confirm availability.

Morris County Alstede Farms 1 Chester Field Drive, Chester (GPS address), 1 Alstede Farm Lane (across the street) 908-879-7189; alstedefarms.com Open daily, 9am-7pm, in the summer; later closing hours in the fall Always call before going.

Pick your own blackberries, gooseberries, and currants through the end of July; blueberries through midAugust; red and yellow raspberries from mid-August through October; and peaches mid-July through midSeptember. Cut-your-own flowers July-October. Veggies from July-October. Corn maze with giant hay pyramid, farm animals, hayrides, pony rides,

homemade ice cream, and farmers’ market. Live bands play on weekends through the fall, 12-4pm. Mid-July Sunflower maze will be available.

Hillview Farms 223 Meyersville Road, Gillette 908-647-0957 Open daily, 9am-6pm Pick your own blueberries through the month of July, peaches and nectarines through August, and donut peaches in August.

Ocean County DeWolf’s Farm 58 W. Colliers Mill Road, New Egypt 609-758-6288 dewolfsyoupickfarm.com Open daily, 7am-6pm; pick your own available until 5pm; stand open until 6pm Pick your own blackberries in July and August. Pick your own vegetables April-November.

Emery’s Organic Blueberry Farm 346 Long Swamp Road, New Egypt 609-758-8514 emerysfarm.com Open 9am-4pm when available (call ahead to confirm) Tractor ride to pick your own blueberries. Farmers’ market on-site open daily, 9am-6pm, through Dec. 24.

Sussex County Valley View Farms 280 Route 206 S., Newton 973-579-7271 Open daily, 9:30am-7:30pm; call ahead as hours are subject to change due to weather Pick your own raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries mid-July through August. Also offers pick your own vegetables starting in July and cutyour-own flowers (including sunflowers) in July.

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

John Cheng/USA Gymnastics

Gabby Douglas, a 2012 gold medalist for Team USA, competes in the 2015 World Gymnastics Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, one step in her journey to this summer’s Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Olympic Lessons

››

Watching the Summer Games together as a family can spark important discussions about your kids’ goals, values, and outlook on the world. By Melissa Kagan

S

ometimes the best, most in-depth conversations with kids happen while you’re all focused on something else, especially if your kids are relaxed and having fun while it happens. The Summer Olympics, taking place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Aug. 5-21, offers a chance for your entire family to enjoy watching sports together—while providing plenty of opportunities to engage your kids in discussions about topics such as following their passions, setting and achieving their personal goals, and choosing role models.

In addition to cheering on your favorite athletes, it’s a great idea to use the competitions themselves and the personal stories behind the athletes’ hard work getting to Rio to spur your kids to reflect on and discuss some of the issues and values on display. Take advantage of the time you spend watching the games by asking open-ended questions and see where the conversation takes you.

Here are some potential conversation starters: What inspires you to work hard at something?

Let’s face it: Not everybody is going home a winner. Most of these

38

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

athletes will go home without medals, and that’s okay because the fact they made it to the Olympics at all should be reward enough.

Is it the promise of a trophy or admiration from others that your kids want most? Or is it simply a personal goal or the satisfaction of improvement that drives them to push harder?

Do you prefer team sports or individual sports? Why? You will have many opportunities to point out how everyone’s contribution is key to a team’s success while watching group sports such as volleyball, water polo, or basketball. Help kids make the connection between teamwork in sports and other collaborative efforts, such as group projects for school.

On the other hand, viewing individual sports such as gymnastics or diving can also provide teaching moments about being your own toughest competitor and the opportunity each time you compete to beat your personal best. To achieve these results, you need a high amount of self-reliance, discipline, focus, and passion, all of which are on display at the Olympics and can provide fodder for discussion and inspiration.

Do you look up to athletes? Which ones, and why? What are the qualities that make an athlete a good role model?

Not all athletes are responsible members of the community. Do your kids look up to professional sports figures because of their talent or because they contribute something to society, such as spearheading a charity or being the face of a cause? Keep in mind that many teens tune out authority figures—including parents or teachers—but a superstar athlete may be able to deliver a message of inspiration and hope to kids.

How do you feel when you lose at a game or competition?

Use the Olympics to talk about losing—and winning—gracefully.

The emphasis on medals does not mean that winning is the most important thing. Watch the interviews with the various athletes and you’ll discover that they’re happy to be there, no matter what the outcome is. At some point during the event, you’ll witness athletes falling or fumbling, and yet they still persevere. You don’t see much foot stomping, storming away, or crying by the athlete who comes in fourth. Watch how the competitors react to winning and losing and how they treat their opponents and use this as an example for your kids to show the difference between good and bad sportsmanship.

What do you dream you could do, and how do you think you can make that happen?

Journalists covering the Olympics tend to focus on inspiring human-interest stories about athletes overcoming obstacles to reach their goals. These emotional stories can make watching an event all the more compelling and give you a chance to talk to your kids about perseverance. Kids often make a habit of trying an activity and then giving up when it doesn’t come easily to them or they aren’t excelling in it right away. Remind your children that Olympic competitors are not born; they are developed over years and years, through practice and more practice and even more practice.

What are some other cultures that fascinate you or that you’d like to learn more about?

Aside from the competitions themselves, the greatest part of the Olympics is watching how countries from all around the world come together to share in their common language of sports.

Parents can use this as a starting point for conversations about embracing other cultures. It’s one of those rare moments when you are able to see citizens from around the world join together as they celebrate their unique strengths and talents. Use a globe or a map to see where the competitors are from and discuss a variety of topics, such as traditions, language, flags, and relating to people who are different.

Conversations build connections. Expose your kids this August to different sports and their rules, and explore the concept of teamwork, the power of practice, the values and traditions of other cultures, and the different components of competition, including effort, losing, and winning. When you pause and listen, you can get to know so much about your children and they may even learn a thing or two about themselves.

Melissa Kagan is the former editor-in-chief of the now-defunct lifetimemoms. com. She is currently a freelance writer whose work has been featured on Mommy Poppins, and in Westchester Magazine and Westchester Family. She lives in Pelham with her husband and two children.

Danceworks MOMMY & ME • CREATIVE DANCE BALLET • POINTE • HIP HOP • JAZZ FUNK

ADULT BALLET WORKOUT

CHILDREN OUR SPECIALTY NON-COMPETITIVE ATMOSPHERE F��� T���� C���� F�� A�� N�� S�������

69 L��� R��� • C������

C��� ��� D������ ��� B������� 845-268-4669

35 Years In Rockland

Lead Academy Tutoring Center HOMEWORK HELP (All Subjects - Common Core Skills)

NEW SAT - POWER PREP COURSE

• Practice Exams & Review Evidence-Based Reading & Writing Strategies • Enriched Math: Basic Math, Pre-Algebra, Breakdown Complex Passages Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Math Multiple Meaning Words Vocabulary • Enriched English: Phonics, Vocabulary, Summer Language and Grammar Review Intensive Grammar, Critical Reading, Essay Writing • New SAT Math Course • Middle and High School Subjects: Algebra I & II and Trigonometry English, Algebra I & II, Geometry & Application-based, Multi-step Questions Trigonometry, Biology, Chemistry & Physics Extended-thinking Strategies • Regents, SAT II Subject Tests & AP Exams Translating Math into English & English into Math • Effective Essay Writing Skills

450 S. Main Street (Rt. 304), New City Phone: (845)639-6674 askleadacademy@gmail.com

Grades K-12

Angela Boudounis-Hatzis, DDS

• Specialist in dentistry for children and adolescents

• New, state of the art facility

• Digital X-rays used

• Insurance friendly

• Patients seen on time

• Warm and friendly staff.

Stop in and meet us!

265 N. Highland Ave - Suite 101 (Rte 9W-in Children of America Bldg) Nyack, NY Tel: 845-512-8434 www.nyackpediatricdentistry.com

RocklandParent 39

Courtesy Great Wolf Lodge

A lifeguard at Great Wolf Lodge measures a child to see which attractions would be safe for her at the water park.

Behind the Thrills

››

It takes a dedicated and well-trained crew of lifeguards to keep everyone safe at a water park.

Here’s how they do it. By Samantha Neudorf

“My name is Timmy. You may see me throughout the park today and you may see lifeguards rescuing me. When you see lifeguards rescuing me, it means they’re training to do their job better every day, so please applaud my performance when you see these rescues taking place.”

Those are words you may have heard announced over the public-address system or posted on the walls at popular water parks across the country, and believe it or not, it’s a standard type of training for lifeguards.

Timmy is a mannequin that looks like a little boy and is used as a form of training that takes place at water parks. A supervisor throws the mannequin into the water, and it is up to the lifeguards on duty to rescue it within a matter of seconds, as though it were an actual child drowning.

“If [the lifeguards] don’t respond in time, the guards are retrained,” says Thatcher Robertson, corporate water park director of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in the Pocono Mountains region of Pennsylvania. “If it’s something that happens more than once, then we have to take a hard look at whether the guard needs to stay doing what they’re doing.”

Preventing ‘Deadly Sins’

Approximately 10 people in the U.S. die from unintentional 40

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

drowning every day, and of this number, nearly two of them are children ages 14 and younger, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lifeguards, often teenagers themselves, are employed at swimming pools and beaches across the country to keep swimmers safe and help those who find themselves in trouble. Water parks face additional safety challenges, including very large crowds, children eager for thrills, and activities, such as fast-moving slides, that heighten the risks.

This is why water parks insist on extra training and drills for their lifeguards, and many pay an extra fee to receive third-party audits.

At Great Wolf Lodge and Camelback Resort’s Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark—both also in the Pocono Mountains—the water parks receive third-party audits from Ellis & Associates Inc., an aquatic risk management firm dedicated to drowning prevention and accredited by International Aquatic Safety and Risk Management Consulting. Kalahari Resorts uses the American Red Cross for its audits.

Three or four times a year, these third-party auditors will arrive at the water parks unannounced and record the lifeguards with a video camera. The footage is reviewed and the auditors will tabulate scores for individual lifeguard performances, along with other tests, to calculate the overall facility performance score.

If a lifeguard fails an audit test, whether it is from an external

Courtesy Camelback Resort

A Sampling of Northeast Water Parks auditor or from an internal test, she will be dismissed from her job and will be placed in a different department of the park or will be asked to leave.

“It’s something that we’d call a ‘deadly sin,’ if you will,” says Bill Colavito, general manager of Great Wolf Lodge.

“We’re talking about an audit where you would potentially put somebody at risk, and we can’t stand for that.”

Becoming a Lifeguard

To become a lifeguard at a water park, one must be at least 16 years old and first take the lifeguard training program, which is part instructional and part skills training. The instructional portion takes place online, and the skills training involves approximately 30 hours at the facility to go over swimming and rescuing skills, CPR, and more. After passing the written and swimming exams, the lifeguard is certified and will be placed into his assigned section of the water park.

Whether stationed at the shallow kiddie pool or wave pool, all lifeguards have the same certifications and training. Lifeguards are required to participate in in-service training on a weekly basis to reinforce their swimming skills, and sit in pre-shift meetings to go over anything that needs to be discussed, mainly pertinent to water safety.

“That’s what really keeps lifeguards sharp,” says Wayne Franks, director of water park operations at Camelback Resort.

“Knowing that they have [the] responsibility of not only the guests that are in the park [and] are swimming in the pools… there’s that opportunity that it could be catastrophic, [and] that trains for that awareness.”

Most water parks have between 100-200 certified lifeguards on staff, but the number who are on duty at any one time varies, depending on the size of the park. Though there can be a lot of lifeguards working at once, the most important factor is that they do not take their eyes off of the water. At Great Wolf Lodge, the director of aquatics sometimes sets down a glass of water during the interview process and asks the candidate to stare at it for five minutes straight.

“Sometimes it just gives people the perspective of how important it is no matter what,” Colavito says. “Even if there isn’t anybody in the water, you’re still watching water, and that’s how important the job is.”

Shared Responsibilities

When taking children to water parks, safety is not just the lifeguards’ responsibility—it, of course, starts with parents. The number-one tip that experts emphasized is to provide constant supervision to your children.

Franks advises parents to enroll children in swimming lessons to make sure they can keep themselves afloat while in the water.

Franks and Robertson both suggested that kids should wear life jackets even if they are strong swimmers. Robertson also stresses that parents should not allow their children to go down waterslides if they do not meet the height requirements, no matter how tempting it may be to give in to kids’ entreaties to allow them to skirt the rules.

“Their kids may not be tall enough to ride that ride now, but they will be,” Robertson says. “There are reasons for the rules that are there.”

The wave pool at Camelback Resort’s Camelbeach

Camelback Resort Tannersville, PA camelbackresort.com Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Camelback Resort is home to Aquatopia, the biggest indoor water park in the Northeast, along with Camelbeach, home to 37 rides, slides, and attractions, making it Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor water park.

CoCo Key Water Resort Mount Laurel, NJ mtlaurelcocokey.com Coco Key Water Resort and Hotel has 55,000 square feet of water park, an arcade, and endless fun for the whole family.

Great Wolf Lodge Scotrun, PA greatwolf.com/poconos With tons of slides, water games and activities, an arcade, spas, and more, Great Wolf Lodge has something for everyone.

Mountain Creek Waterpark Vernon, NJ actionpark.com From Adventure Ridge to Wild River Canyons to Park Central, Mountain Creek Waterpark has tube slides, body slides, and even Canyon Cliffs, where you can jump off a 23-foothigh cliff into the crystal clear “mountain spring.”

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Pocono Manor, PA kalahariresorts.com/ pennsylvania

Kalahari is a 100,000-squarefoot indoor water park with a retractable roof, so you can bodyboard, stand-up surf, or take a ride on the Anaconda water roller coaster in any kind of weather.

Rocking Horse Ranch Highland, NY rockinghorseranch.com The Rocking Horse Ranch is home to an 85-degree yearround indoor water park, complete with a 250-footlong Gold Rush Flume.

Sahara Sam’s Oasis West Berlin, NJ saharasams.com Float down the Congo Bongo Adventure River, take a dip in the tropical warming pool, or race down the five-story-high water slides at Sahara Sam’s.

Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Water Park Queensbury, NY sixflagsgreatescapelodge.com Ride side by side with your family and friends on Glacier Run and Snow Shoe Falls, the tube-shaped water slides, take it easy on Tak-it-Eesi-Creek, or visit the beach and shallow activity pool designed just for young children.

Split Rock Resort Lake Harmony, PA splitrockresort.com Split Rock is the perfect place for relaxing, dining, and of course indoor water fun at H2Oooohh! Water Park.

RocklandParent 41

Food & Nutrition

Burgers Reinvented

››

Three recipes for when you need a new take on a barbecue staple at the end of the summer All-in-One Grilled Burgers

Why This Recipe Works: We love a burger that’s stacked high with add-ons, but we couldn’t help but wonder whether there was a way to take some of the “top” out of the toppings. We wanted to put the same bold flavors inside the burger instead. We started with some classic burger toppings: cheese, bacon, and mustard. Because the cheese and bacon added a good amount of fat to the meat, we switched from 80-percent lean ground beef, which is our usual favorite, to 90-percent lean for this recipe. We also found that we liked these burgers cooked until they were completely well-done. The additions to the meat kept it from getting dried out. We then went on to more adventurous flavor combinations using firm cheese and potent ingredients with minimal moisture (such as garlic, herbs, chiles, and powdered seasoning mixes). These burgers may not be piled high with colorful toppings, but one bite will prove that looks aren’t everything—it’s what’s inside that really counts.

Serves 4 We suggest cooking these burgers completely (to well-done); the extra ingredients tend to make them taste mushy if not cooked all the way through. If you like, toast the hamburger buns on the grill while the burgers rest.

8 slices bacon, chopped fine 1½ pounds 90-percent lean ground beef 42

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup) 4 teaspoons yellow mustard 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 4 hamburger buns 1. Cook bacon in 12-inch skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until brown and crisp, 10-12 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towel-lined plate.

2. Break ground beef into small pieces in bowl, then add cheddar, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and bacon. Using your hands, lightly knead mixture until combined. Divide meat into four equal portions. Working with one portion at a time, lightly toss from hand to hand to form loose ball, then gently flatten into 1-inch-thick patty. Press center of patties down with your fingertips to create ¼-inch-deep depression.

3A. For a charcoal grill: Open bottom vent completely. Light large chimney starter filled with charcoal briquettes (6 quarts). When top coals are partially covered with ash pour evenly over grill.

Set cooking grate in place, cover, and open lid vent completely.

Heat grill until hot, approximately 5 minutes.

3B. For a gas grill: Turn all burners to high, cover, and heat grill until hot, approximately 15 minutes. Leave all burners on high.

4. Clean and oil cooking grate. Place burgers on grill and cook, without pressing on them, until browned and meat easily

releases from grill, 4-6 minutes. Flip burgers and continue to grill until browned on second side and meat registers 150155 degrees (for well-done), 4-6 minutes longer. Transfer burgers to platter, tent with aluminum foil, and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve on buns.

Variations Ranch All-in-One Grilled Burgers Omit bacon, cheddar, mustard, and Worcestershire. Add 2/3 cup crumbled blue cheese, 4 teaspoons powdered ranch dressing mix (from packet), and 2 minced garlic cloves to burger mixture in step 2.

Tex-Mex All-in-One Grilled Burgers Omit bacon, cheddar, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Add 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, 4 teaspoons minced canned chipotle chile in adobo sauce, and 4 teaspoons taco seasoning (from packet) to burger mixture in step 2.

Italian All-in-One Grilled Burgers Omit bacon, cheddar, mustard, and Worcestershire. Add ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard, and 2 minced garlic cloves to burger mixture in step 2.

Fr

ia

Tr

Why This Recipe Works: A good shrimp burger should be first and foremost about the shrimp. Unfortunately, many shrimp burgers are more reminiscent of fish-flavored rubber patties or overseasoned bread balls than shrimp. We set out to develop a recipe for our ideal shrimp burger: moist, chunky yet still cohesive, and with seasoning that complements the sweet shrimp flavor but doesn’t overpower it.

After early testing we decided we needed a combination of finely chopped shrimp to help bind the burgers, as well as some larger, bitesize chunks. We achieved this texture with help from the food processor.

We wanted to use as little binder as possible, to avoid the soggy, mushy results we’d seen in other shrimp burgers that frequently used a combination of mayonnaise, egg, and breadcrumbs. We kept the mayonnaise for the much-needed moisture and fat it added but left out the egg and decreased the breadcrumbs. Some minced scallion and parsley, lemon zest, and a touch of cayenne pepper round out the flavor of our burgers.

l C ee la ss !

Grilled Southern Shrimp Burgers

Visit us online or call about

Summer Art Camp

Birthday Parties Ages 2-18 Class/Camps Certified Teachers Spacious Studio

60 Dutch Hill Rd, Orangeburg www.ArtAdventureNY.com • (845) 680-6780

Serves 4 Be sure to use raw, not cooked, shrimp here. Dry the shrimp thoroughly before processing, or the burgers will be mushy. Handle the burgers gently when shaping and grilling; if overhandled while being shaped, the burgers will be dense and rubbery, and if handled roughly during cooking, they will break apart. Serve with salad greens or toasted hamburger buns with tartar sauce.

1 slice hearty white sandwich bread, torn into large pieces ¼ cup mayonnaise 2 scallions, minced 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest ¼ teaspoon salt 1 /8 teaspoon pepper

www.B4Kcenter.com Bricks4Kidz.RcklndNY 121 W. NYACK RD. SUITE 11 NANUET, NY

845-501-7800 • After-School Enrichment • Birthday Parties • Kidz Night Out • Camp • Creative Play • WEDO/EV3 Robotics • Stop Motion Animation

After-School STEM Enrichment Classes Offered at Our Center or at Your Child’s School (offered at select schools)

continued on next page ››

RocklandParent 43

›› continued from previous page

Pinch cayenne pepper 1½ pounds extra-large shrimp (21-25 per pound), peeled, deveined, and patted dry Vegetable oil 1. Pulse bread in food processor to coarse crumbs, approximately 10 pulses. Transfer to small bowl. Do not clean food processor.

Combine mayonnaise, scallions, parsley, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and cayenne in large bowl until uniform.

2. Pulse shrimp in now-empty food processor until some pieces are finely minced and others are coarsely chopped, approximately seven pulses. Add shrimp to mayonnaise mixture and gently fold until just combined. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over mixture and gently fold until incorporated.

3. Scrape shrimp mixture onto small baking sheet, divide into four equal portions, and loosely pack each into 1-inch-thick patty. Cover and refrigerate patties for at least 30 minutes or up to 3 hours.

4A. For a charcoal grill: Open bottom vent completely. Light large chimney starter three-quarters filled with charcoal briquettes (4½ quarts). When top coals are partially covered with ash, pour evenly over grill. Set cooking grate in place, cover, and open lid vent completely. Heat grill until hot, approximately 5 minutes.

4B. For a gas grill: Turn all burners to high, cover, and heat grill until hot, approximately 15 minutes. Turn all burners to medium-high.

5. Clean and oil cooking grate. Lightly brush tops of burgers with oil, lay them on grill, oiled side down, and lightly brush other side with oil. Cook burgers, without pressing on them, until lightly browned and cooked through, 10-14 minutes, flipping them halfway through grilling. Transfer burgers to platter, tent with aluminum foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Mediterranean-Style Portobello Burgers

Why This Recipe Works: For a vegetarian burger with unbeatable meaty taste, we turned to grilled portobello mushrooms. Scraping out the gills avoided any muddy off-flavors, and marinating the mushrooms in a simple vinaigrette boosted their complexity. Cutting a shallow crosshatch into the caps not only allowed the portobellos to soak up more marinade, but it also prevented the skin from turning chewy while cooking. Before grilling, we mixed together some toppings that complemented the mushrooms’ Mediterranean flavor profile. A combination of chopped roasted red peppers, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese made for a bright, briny accompaniment, and a quick basil-boosted mayonnaise promised a creamy component for our finished burgers. Keeping these two toppings close by, we grilled the mushrooms alongside ½-inchthick sliced red onions. Skewering the slices with toothpicks kept the onion rounds in place for tidy grilling and brushing them with the remaining marinade unified the flavors. Once the mushrooms had taken on plenty of rich char on both sides, we placed them on a platter and filled the gilled sides with the feta mixture. Returning to the grill, we gave the filled mushrooms a final blast of heat to warm them through and then toasted up sturdy Kaiser rolls. We assembled our flavor-packed finished product, stacking our stuffed mushrooms, sweet grilled onions, and some peppery baby arugula on top of our basil mayo–smeared buns. These burgers were perfectly rich, and juicy—no meat necessary.

44

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Serves 4 Our favorite feta cheese is Mt. Vikos Traditional Feta from Greece.

If the mushrooms absorb all the marinade, simply brush the onions with olive oil before grilling them in step 4.

4 portobello mushroom caps (4 to 5 inches in diameter), gills removed ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 garlic clove, minced Salt and pepper 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (1 cup) ½ cup jarred roasted red peppers, patted dry and chopped ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, patted dry and chopped ½ cup mayonnaise ½ cup chopped fresh basil 4 (½-inch-thick) slices red onion 4 Kaiser rolls, split 1 ounce (1 cup) baby arugula 1. Using tip of paring knife, cut ½-inch crosshatch pattern on tops of mushroom caps, 1/16 inch deep. Combine oil, vinegar, garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper in 1-gallon zipper-lock bag. Add mushrooms, seal bag, turn to coat, and let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour.

2. Combine feta, red peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes in bowl.

Whisk mayonnaise and basil together in separate bowl. Push 1 toothpick horizontally through each onion slice to keep rings intact while grilling.

3A. For a charcoal grill: Open bottom vent completely. Light large chimney starter filled with charcoal briquettes (6 quarts).

When top coals are partially covered with ash, pour evenly over grill. Set cooking grate in place, cover, and open lid vent completely. Heat grill until hot, approximately 5 minutes.

3B. For a gas grill: Turn all burners to high, cover, and heat grill until hot, approximately 15 minutes. Turn all burners to medium-high.

4. Clean and oil cooking grate. Remove mushrooms from marinade, reserving excess. Brush onions all over with reserved mushroom marinade. Place onions and mushrooms, gill side up, on grill. Cook (covered if using gas) until mushrooms have released their liquid and are charred on first side, 4-6 minutes. Flip mushrooms and onions and continue to cook (covered if using gas) until mushrooms are charred on second side, 3-5 minutes.

5. Transfer onions to platter; remove toothpicks. Transfer mushrooms to platter, gill side up, and divide feta mixture evenly among caps, packing down with your hand. Return mushrooms to grill, feta side up, and cook, covered, until heated through, approximately 3 minutes.

6. Return mushrooms to platter and tent with aluminum foil. Grill rolls cut sides down until lightly charred, approximately 1 minute. Spread basil-mayonnaise on roll bottoms and top each with 1 mushroom and 1 onion slice. Divide arugula evenly among burgers, then cap with bun Excerpted with permission tops. Serve. from Master of the Grill from America’s Test Kitchen.

Food & Nutrition

Grilled Desserts?

Yes, Please! ››

Prepare one of these sweet treats to wow the guests at your next barbecue. By Danielle Bennett

Blueberry-Lemon Cobbler

Makes: 8-10 servings • Prep: 30 minutes • Cook: 1¼ hours Cobblers are heartwarming to me, and they’re such a simple dessert to make—a bit of dough and some berries, peaches, or other fruit. Let it bubble away ’til golden and sumptuous. That’s it. Perfectly easy for anyone to do. Over the years, I have had countless varieties of cobblers at picnics, backyard bashes, and barbecue competitions. Play with different types of fruit—fresh or frozen—and make something you love.

Sugared Lemon Slices 2 lemons, sliced ¼ cup granulated sugar Filling 6 cups fresh or frozen wild blueberries ¾ cup granulated sugar 1 lemon, zested and juiced ¼ cup water 3 tbsp. cornstarch Topping ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 can (12 oz.) Texas-style or regular refrigerated biscuits (10 biscuits) 2 tbsp. whole milk 1. Prepare your grill for indirect cooking and preheat it to medium-high (375°F to 450°F).

S’more Better Dip

Makes: 6-8 servings • Prep: 20 minutes • Cook: Approximately 45 minutes Everyone loves toasting s’mores over a campfire. But for a big crowd, it’s easier to make a tray of this s’more dip. You can dunk just about anything in the sweet treat, from fresh fruit, cake cubes, and cookies to salty pretzel sticks. I love using Skor toffee bits in this recipe, but feel free to add anything—chopped nuts, crushed cookies—to make it uniquely your own.

Ingredients 2 cups milk chocolate chips 1½ cups heavy (whipping) cream 1 package (14½ oz.) graham crackers 15 jumbo marshmallows, halved ½ cup Skor toffee bits

2. For the Sugared Lemon Slices, sprinkle the lemon slices with sugar. Place on the cool side of the grill. Cook until the lemon slices are dried out and caramelized on top, approximately 45 minutes. Remove the lemon slices from the grill and set aside.

Leave the grill on.

3. For the filling, mix together the blueberries, sugar, and lemon zest and juice in a 9-inch cast iron skillet.

4. Whisk together the water and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Add the cornstarch mixture to the blueberry mixture and stir well.

5. Place the skillet on the hot side of the grill. Watching closely and stirring often, cook until the mixture is bubbling and the juices have thickened, approximately 10 minutes. Move the skillet to the cool side of the grill.

6. For the topping, mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Arrange the biscuits on top of the blueberry mixture. Brush the biscuits with milk. Sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon and sugar.

7. Bake on the cool side of the grill until the biscuits are thoroughly cooked and browned on top, approximately 20 minutes.

8. Remove the skillet from the grill. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.

9. Garnish the cobbler with the Sugared Lemon Slices.

Directions 1. Mix together the chocolate chips and cream in a microwavesafe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high in 30-second increments, stirring after each one, until the chocolate chips are melted. Stir until smooth.

2. Prepare your grill for indirect cooking and preheat it to 300°F. 3. Arrange some of the crackers in a single layer in a 12-by-10inch disposable aluminum pan to cover the base of the pan completely. Pour the chocolate mixture evenly over the crackers.

Top with marshmallow halves. Sprinkle with Skor bits.

4. Place the pan on the cool side of the grill. Cook until bubbling, 35-45 minutes.

5. Serve immediately with the remaining graham crackers.

Excerpted from Diva Q’s Barbeque by Danielle Bennett.

Copyright © 2016 Danielle Bennett. Photography Copyright © 2016 Ken Goodman. Published by Appetite by Random House, a division of Random House of Canada Ltd., a penguin Random House company. All rights reserved.

RocklandParent 45

The Power of Preschool

››

Experts discuss the importance of early childhood education. It’s much more than just play time! By Melissa Wickes

K

ids play together, sit in a circle with their teachers and sing songs, eventually moving to the table for a snack. Maybe they discuss the weather outside or the calendar, or learn about letters and numbers. From the outside, you’d be forgiven for seeing preschool as a nice-to-have, rather than a necessity—and, for those not in public pre-K programs, a potentially expensive option at that.

Indeed, some parents have argued that preschool is simply a glorified day care, that anything taught there can easily be learned at home.

There is, however, more going on in that classroom than the untrained eye might observe. Educators and child development experts say that early childhood education offers kids advantages long after they leave the colorful walls of their preschool classroom and helps set them up for success in school and beyond. We’ve been hearing a lot about preschool from our political and educational leaders in recent years, as exemplified by New York City’s much-heralded push to provide universal pre-K. There is good reason that policymakers have zeroed in on this as an area where kids’ lives can be influenced for the better regardless of their backgrounds and situations.

Research shows that the benefits of preschool are tangible and visible in more ways than one. Preschool not only provides more opportunities for children, it helps them learn how to face social interactions as well, according to Rina Patel, a former preschool teacher and director of the early childhood enrichment program Book Nook, which is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. There are, as a result, big differences between at-home learning and in-school learning.

46

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

“There’s a different expectation at home when there is a parent with a child versus a teacher with a child,” Patel says. “Children do naturally develop skills, but at home they are only exposed to a certain amount of materials, toys, or learning products. School is open to a whole different variety of learning materials from programs to class trips.”

Trained Teachers and Groups of Peers

Schools provide teachers who are professionally trained to be molding young minds and are equipped with certain skills parents alone may not have. An important aspect of in-school learning is instilling in kids the ability to interact successfully with other people. It may seem very straightforward, but getting along with others, especially at 2-4 years old, is not so easy. Being in a classroom with multiple children their own age allows children to develop social and emotional skills that cannot be learned solely at home, Patel says.

At preschool, children become accustomed to being in group settings, separating from parents, and making decisions on their own—even if those decisions are as simple as, “Do I want to play with Legos or finger paint today?” All of the social experiences children undergo in preschool contribute to their overall confidence, according to Tovah Klein, Ph.D., author of How Toddlers Thrive and director of the Barnard College Center for Toddler Development.

“People think of it as the ABCs and 123s, but it’s much, much more than that,” Dr. Klein says. “Children gain a lot of confidence by being able to handle themselves away from their parents and then reuniting with them later in the day.”

PRESCHOOLS AND CHILD CARE CENTERS Preschool classrooms also teach kids a great deal about resiliency and curiosity, according to Klein. Being able to handle disappointment and moving on from it, learning to be proud of your own work, and the ability to make decisions all play into a child’s curiosity and overall desire to learn.

Preparing Kids to Learn

Beyond the realm of confidence and social skills, going to preschool prepares children for life in various other ways, such as getting them ready to learn in school. This has become increasingly true in recent years as the kindergarten curriculum has been revamped. Today, skills such as reading are generally being taught earlier, prompting one study to ask, “Is kindergarten the new first grade?” With so much more expected of children at the kindergarten level, early education becomes crucial as preparation for the new rigors of kindergarten.

Various studies have shown that early education programs for 3and 4-year-olds improve language skills, literacy, and mathematics.

Attending preschool has been shown to improve children’s IQ, their receptive and expressive vocabulary skills, and early reading and math skills. By enrolling your child in a preschool program, you are preparing him to acquire academic skills that he will be expected to use as early as kindergarten, and offering him a head start in his academic career.

Studies show that a crucial part of preschool education lies in stimulating interactions between students and their preschool teachers. By supporting their students emotionally and academically, teachers help children learn to develop skills, respond both verbally and physically, and enjoy learning. Young children often struggle with the transition from a play environment to a learning environment, which can cause a “learning anxiety,” or fear of learning, according to Patel. By introducing your child to this learning environment as early as preschool, you eliminate the anxiety as early as possible, preparing her for future learning.

Teaching Kids Routine

Preschool also helps children develop and understand the concept of a routine. The school day is structured, which helps acclimate children into a daily routine and a learning environment in a gentle and enjoyable way. Being accustomed to a routine helps children prepare for higher levels of grade school, college, and a professional life, according to Patel.

“When I was in a kindergarten classroom with children who didn’t go to preschool prior to entering, they were experiencing social anxiety and learning anxiety simply because they didn’t know what to expect,” Patel says. “Preschool fills those separation and learning anxieties so your child has a better idea and is better prepared for the future.”

In the process of preparing a child for a routine, parents likewise become accustomed to enforcing and sticking to that routine. The earlier you start bringing your child to a structured program such as preschool every day, Patel says, the earlier you learn the importance of an everyday routine for your child. An aspect that is also beneficial for parents is that the earlier you begin, the earlier you can decide what works for you and your child and what doesn’t.

By sending your child to preschool, experts say, he will be provided the resources necessary for proper academic preparation, and social and emotional development. Plus, she will learn more about herself than she could ever do from your living room.

Deborah Koenig Early Childhood Center at JCC Rockland

playgrounds. Call or click today to schedule your private tour.

450 W. Nyack Road, West Nyack 845-501-4100 jccrockland.org/dkecc dkecc@jccrockland.org Limited spaces available—register today. The Deborah Koenig Early Childhood Center at JCC Rockland is committed to providing excellent care and education to our diverse community in Rockland County. We believe that our children are precious, and we support your efforts to provide them with a bright start. We partner with our families to encourage creativity, curiosity, and imagination, and to build trusting relationships. Our mission is the same as yours: for your child to grow and develop in an environment that is safe, warm, and stimulating. Registration is ongoing for infants through pre-K.

Kiddie Academy of Northvale

271 Livingston St., Northvale 201-767-1120 kiddieacademy.com/northvale northvale@kiddieacademy.net At Kiddie Academy® of Northvale, we never take a single moment of your child’s growth potential for granted. We feed your child’s curiosity and instinct to learn with days filled with age-appropriate activities designed to treat every experience as an opportunity to learn. We believe when children learn at their own pace, they are capable of incredible growth.

That’s the core philosophy of our Life Essentials® curriculum. Visit our academy, meet our staff, see our classrooms, and play on our

Kreative Kids

61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202; vickistudio.com Kreative Kids is a toddler and nursery program for boys and girls ages 16 months to 4 years (diapers welcomed!). Classes are divided by age. We offer arts and crafts, music with instruments, singing, creative movement, tumbling, story time, snack time, and early learning skills. Our professional staff balances active and quiet activities, as it provides comfort and love to each child, making separating from parents easy. Classes are kept small to provide individualized attention.

We also offer flexible, extended hours to fit your work schedule.

St. Catharine Early Childhood Center

517 Western Highway, Blauvelt 845-359-4330; stcatharineprek.org Our program provides an opportunity for young children to join together in a loving, nurturing, educational, and fun environment.

Each child is introduced to a full curriculum of early learning in a center-based setting. Hands-on activities and participation in all areas provide the perfect setting for young children to develop and grow. Each child is recognized as a unique individual with many special talents and abilities. Phonemic awareness, social, cognitive, and fine and gross motor skills are introduced through a creative curriculum. A wonderful place for preschoolers to learn, grow, and have fun!

REGISTER NOW TO SECURE LESSON TIME

MUSIC LESSONS piano • voice • guitar • drums • strings

Downtown Nyack

845.405.3615 • rivertownmusic.net RocklandParent 47

RvrtwnMusic-AD_RocklandParent_3.55Wx3H_071116.indd 1

7/12/16 9:22 AM

Meet the Health Care

Professional To be in this section, call 845-848-8021 or email nympads@davlermedia.com

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

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

A & R Advanced Dental Group, Marita Smith, D.D.S. 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-364-9400 aradvanceddental.com

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

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

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

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.

Kupchik Dental Dr. Anna Kupchik, D.D.S. 2 Medical Park Drive, Suite 16, West Nyack 845-535-3500 kupchikdental.com info@kupchikdental.com

At Kupchik Dental, patients’ comfort is our No. 1 priority.

We strive to make every dental experience easy and relaxing by practicing gentle touch dentistry. Our state-of-the-art dental office is committed to providing the best quality of care for the entire family. Dr. Kupchik and her team believe in educating patients and keeping them informed of their oral health every step of the way. We are open seven days a week for your convenience, and have an in-house insurance plan for the uninsured.

48

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Dr. Marita Smith is a board-certified pediatric dentist who is dedicated to providing excellent dental care for children, from infancy through adolescence, in a warm and friendly environment. As a mother of two, Dr. Smith knows how important it is for children to be comfortable and stress-free during their dental visits. Dr. Smith places great focus on prevention and her goal is to keep your child’s smile healthy! We accept most insurances, and evening hours are available.

Dental Wellness of Suffern provides natural, effective, quality dental care for your family, making your visit enjoyable, comfortable, and relaxing. A parent herself, Dr. Alpert enjoys working with children who are apprehensive about the dentist, creating a fun environment with magic tricks, interactive Wii games, a wall mural, and a Find the Dental Helpers game. Author of two books, Cassandra Gets Her Smile Back and Attack of the Sugar Bugs, Dr. Alpert makes visiting the dentist fun. Dental Wellness of Suffern—let them create the smile you were born to have.

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

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, Drs. Nicole Clemente and Marissa Clemente, work together seamlessly to care for your orthodontic needs. They run a stateof-the-art practice with digital X-rays, private treatment rooms, impression-free Invisalign, and a highly experienced staff. They are an Invisalign Super Elite Premier provider, offering Invisalign and Invisalign Teen as treatment options.

Consultations are complimentary.

Kastin & Newman Orthodontics 6 Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-354-7233; rocklandorthodontics.com info@kastin-newmanortho.com

Drs. Brett Kastin and Warren Newman utilize state-of-the-art materials and customized treatment planning for every patient, ensuring the highest quality of care. Dr. Kastin is a certified Invisalign® provider, and has been president of the Rockland County Dental Society since 2006. Dr. Newman has more than 40 years of orthodontic experience. They have been a team for more than 10 years, and were voted Rockland’s Top Orthodontists by the dentists of Rockland County. Their practice offers an experienced staff and flexible appointment times. Initial exams are complimentary, as are children’s recall appointments.

HealthSav 7 Elmwood Drive, New City 877-CPR-N-AED (277-6233) healthsav.com info@healthsav.com

In 2006, Lenny Nathan began HealthSav with the intent of providing accessible CPR and first aid training for not just health care providers, but for the public as well. Today HealthSav is an American Heart Association Training Center offering all levels of training seven days a week. Registration is easily done at our website, healthsav.com. HealthSav prides itself on making sure clients leave with a true understanding of CPR, and confidence in their ability to perform it in an emergency. Learn CPR, become a lifesaver.

PARTY PLANNER

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

We Bring The Party To You!!

K&A HOUSE OF BOUNCE • Themed Bouncers • Dunk Tanks • Super Wet Slides • Dry Slides • Fun Food Machines

• Party Tents • Backyard Parties • Festivals • School Functions • Any event

Year Round Service - Competitive Prices

845-825-6617 WWW.KAHOUSEOFBOUNCE.COM

Jill’s Ceramics

Where children & adults create their own functional works of art

The Burgundy Party & Conference Room @ The Ramapo Athletic Center

• Kids Birthday Parties • Adult’s Night Out • Specialty Items For Every Holiday • Paint & Go or Glaze & Fire

Mon, Tues & Wed 930am-300pm Tues & Thurs 700pm-930pm Friday Kids Classes 300-500pm

Your #1 Source for Party Rentals

Come Celebrate your party or event at

Call for Extended Group Hours / Pricing & Current Weekend Hours

180 Germonds Rd. West Nyack, NY 845-623-4975 • www.jillsceramics.com

Birthdays • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Corporate Events

Sports Party Packages available with our indoor Volleyball & Basketball Courts

267 Cherry Lane, Airmont, NY 845-659- 8244

Looking for the perfect birthday gift?

Come visit our Unique Toy Boutique!

Mention this ad for 10% OFF!

Need to plan the perfect party?

Find venues, entertainers, suppliers,

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

NYMetroParents.com

We offer over 7000 games, toys, crafts, puzzles, gadgets & more to choose from!

1581 Route 202 • Pomona, NY

845-362-6053

RocklandParent 49

AD INDEX

NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY Metropolitan area!

Acrobatics / Gymnastics

Tech Adventure.............................................................. 11

MVP Health Care............................................................. 7

Master Jung & Yu Traditional Taekwondo..................... 12

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics............................................... 15

Nyack Pediatric Dentistry.............................................. 39

Dance

Dental Wellness of Suffern...................................... 17, 48

Tenafly Pediatrics.................................................... 29, 48

Palisades Climb Adventure............................................ 11 Tumble-Bee Gymnastics............................................... 15

Coupe Theatre Studio................................................... 15 Birthday / Party Services

Danceworks............................................................. 29, 39

Home Services

Academy for Martial Arts................................................. 7

Steel Toes Dance Studio............................................... 22

Geico Insurance.............................................................. 5

Blue Moon Mexican Café ............................................. 29

Developmental

Music

BounceU ......................................................................... 9

Brain Core Neurotherapy............................................... 21

Rivertown Music............................................................ 47

Education

Performing Arts / Acting

J.E.P. of Rockland........................................................... 8

Coupe Theatre Studio................................................... 15

Kiddie Academy - Northvale.......................................... 17

Steel Toes Dance Studio............................................... 22

Art Adventure................................................................. 43

Bounce! Trampoline Sports........................................... 23 Bricks 4 Kidz - Rockland................................................ 43 Danceworks............................................................. 29, 39 JCC of Rockland.............................................................. 3 Kreative Kids / Vicki’s Studio........................................... 9 Land of Make Believe.................................................... 43

Lead Academy............................................................... 39 Play Spaces Family Entertainment /

BounceU ......................................................................... 9

Master Jung & Yu Traditional Taekwondo..................... 12

Events / Outings

Palisades Climb Adventure............................................ 11

BounceU ......................................................................... 9

Religious

Rockland Parent Party Planner..................................... 49

Land of Make Believe.................................................... 43

J.E.P. of Rockland........................................................... 8

Steel Toes Dance Studio............................................... 22

Palisades Center ............................................................ 2

Tech Adventure.............................................................. 11

Restaurant / Food Services

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics............................................... 15

Family Travel

West Rock Tennis Club................................................... 8

Land of Make Believe.................................................... 43

Blue Moon Mexican Café ............................................. 29

Retail Camps Art Adventure................................................................. 43 Bricks 4 Kidz - Rockland................................................ 43 Coupe Theatre Studio................................................... 15 JCC of Rockland.............................................................. 3

Fitness

Palisades Center ............................................................ 2

Academy for Martial Arts................................................. 7

Tilly...A Deer’s Tale......................................................... 17

Bounce! Trampoline Sports........................................... 23 Danceworks............................................................. 29, 39

Special Needs

i9 Sports - Rockland County.......................................... 23

Brain Core Neurotherapy............................................... 21

JCC of Rockland.............................................................. 3

Nyack Pediatric Dentistry.............................................. 39

Rivertown Music............................................................ 47

Palisades Climb Adventure............................................ 11

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics............................................... 15

Tech Adventure.............................................................. 11

Tumble-Bee Gymnastics............................................... 15

West Rock Tennis Club................................................... 8

Master Jung & Yu Traditional Taekwondo..................... 12

Child Care / Day Care

Health

Bounce! Trampoline Sports........................................... 23

Kiddie Academy - Northvale.......................................... 17

A&R Advanced Dental Group.................................. 23, 48

i9 Sports - Rockland County.......................................... 23

Brain Core Neurotherapy............................................... 21

Master Jung & Yu Traditional Taekwondo..................... 12

Classes

Clemente Orthodontics.................................................. 48

Palisades Climb Adventure............................................ 11

Art Adventure................................................................. 43

Good Samaritan Hospital.............................................. 52

West Rock Tennis Club................................................... 8

Bricks 4 Kidz - Rockland................................................ 43

HealthSav...................................................................... 48

J.E.P. of Rockland........................................................... 8

Kastin & Newman Orthodontics..................................... 48

Tutors

Rivertown Music............................................................ 47

Kupchik Dental, PLLC............................................. 43, 48

Lead Academy............................................................... 39

Sports Academy for Martial Arts................................................. 7

50

August 2016 | nymetroparents.com

We've got everything for a…

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

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

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

Bergen•RocklandParent NORTH

HILLSDALE • MONTVALE

SEPTEMBER 2012

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

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

LongIslandParent Parent SPETEMBER 2012

Class Is In!

After-School Activities

✓ ❑ ✓ ❑

Resource Guide

✓ ❑ ✓ ❑

SLOW DOWN!

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

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

How to Manage Kids’ Schedules

What Makes a Good Mentor?

+ 174 Family

+ 130 Family

(see our calendar, p. 26)

(see our calendar, p. 32)

Events

Events

Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

Where-To Guide: Berry Picking

•

Dinosaur Fun

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

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

RocklandParent 51