Suffolk Parent January 2020 by City Guide NY

LongIsland SUFFOLK EDITION

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

JANUARY 2020

Education Decisions • Choosing the right school for your child • Questions to ask on a tour • Schools and resources

What’s the big deal about TikTok? Our favorite podcasts for kids

SUMMER GROWTH SPURT Usdan is an award-winning day camp for students ages 5-18 to explore music, dance, theater, visual arts, sports, and more on our Long Island campus in the woods. JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, January 12 or Sunday, February 9 Reservations required. Visit usdan.org/visit.

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inside

Original photo by Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) Clothing courtesy Macy’s Backstage (macysbackstage.com)

january 2020 14 Choices, Choices, Choices How to choose the best learning environment for your child

16 School Tour Questions These will help you guage which school is best for your child

18 Our Favorite Podcasts For Kids These audio stories are a great substitute for screens

38 What’s the Big Deal About TikTok? A primer for parents whose kids are captivated

40 Is Your Child Being Cyberbullied? Learn how to read the signs, and how to help

COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 9 News: What’s Happening in the Community 12 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 13 Mommybites: Only Child No More

46 Last Word: What’s Your New Year’s Resolution For Your Kids?

THINGS TO DO 21 Family Activities Calendar 36 Outing: Best Kept Secrets: AMNH

RESOURCES 17 Education Directory 41 Meet the Health Care Professional

42 Party Central 43 Open Houses 44 Professional Services 45 Advertisers’ Index

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

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Come see how a safe and loving early childhood Catholic education will inspire your children, at an Open House near you. Catholic Schools Week, January 26 - February 1 To find a Long Island Catholic school near you, see our complete list on the back cover.

www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org

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editor’s note

JANUARY 2020 • Vol.11 • No.8

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

New Year, New Look!

he New Year always seems to mark a time when we can turn over a new leaf and start fresh (even if you’re not really into the whole resolution thing). And what better way for us to start fresh than with a new look?! We’ve updated both our design and editorial content to give you what you want—all to help you make better decisions for your family. You can still find a robust calendar near the middle of the issue (p. 21) with events organized by type—educational activities, events for kids who love nature, maker activities, ways to get active, museums and exhibits, and more—so you can find the perfect things to do with your kids. You’ll also find articles that help you be a better parent. In this issue, you’ll learn why TikTok is so popular and whether it’s okay for your teen (p. 38), and how to tell if your child may be a victim of cyberbullying and what you can do about it (p. 40). If you’re a fan of podcasts and have wondered if there are any good ones for kids, turn to p. 18. We rounded up our favorites for little kids, big kids, and teens. The best part? You’ll find them entertaining and fascinating, too, so you can listen together! And don’t miss our new column, Ask DadandBuried (p. 12), featuring the wise, humorous, and tell-it-like-it-is advice from Mike Julianelle, the dad behind @DadandBuried. While enjoying our fresh start, we hope you’re successful in yours, whatever it may be. Happy New Year! Katelin Walling Editorial Director

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

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

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Meet This Month’s Cover Kid! The teen on our January cover is 13-year-old (almost 14—happy birthday!) Jordan from Nassau County—a grand-prize winner in our 2019 Cover Kids Contest! A huge thanks to Macy’s Backstage for the outfit Jordan’s rocking, and an even bigger shout out to Sarah Merians of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) for the amazing photo! Want to know when the 2020 cover contest opens? Sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/newsletter! January 2020 | nymetroparents.com 6

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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news

A rendering of New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium’s Urban Jungle exhibit, which will feature some of the most fearsome freshwater creatures, including red-bellied piranhas

City Under the Sea The NYC-themed New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium is slated to open this spring.

SEA LIFE, the world’s largest network of aquariums, recently announced its newest location: East Rutherford, NJ—at American Dream to be exact. The 25,000-square-foot New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium will feature more than 3,000 different creatures in more than 10 exhibits inspired by New York City’s most memorable moments and experiences. “It offers a new wave of underwater adventures,” said Julie Estrada, head of public relations of North America for Merlin Entertainments, which owns and operates SEA LIFE as well as many other locationbased family entertainment experiences. “What’s amazing about it is, it’s really designed to be a child’s first experience with an aquarium.” Find out more details at nymetroparents.com/sealife.

LongIslandParent

Courtesy Andrea Worthington

news

Houseplant Love Jan. 10 is National Houseplant Appreciation Day, so show yours a little extra love—just be careful not to overwater them! Don’t have any of your own? Check out the nine reasons they’re good for your family (nymetroparents.com/ plants), then head out and pick up a few. Andrea Worthington with her daughter, who’s the reason BabyGotChat.com was created 5 years ago

Healthy Family, Happy Family Teach your kids to sing “Happy Birthday” twice while washing hands for proper cleaning; ensure your children know the etiquette for coughing and sneezing—use a tissue or the crux of your arm— and model these actions; sanitize surfaces in the home—doorknobs, dining surfaces, remote controls, and telephones; and practice good food hygiene by sanitizing countertops and cooking surfaces regularly, always using a clean cutting board, and avoiding mixing uncooked plant- and animalbased foods. —Philip Tierno, Ph.D., director of clinical microbiology and immunology at New York University Langone Medical Center, on keeping your family healthy during flu season

The Mom Behind @BabyGotChat

ndrea Worthington launched BabyGotChat.com when she moved from Manhattan to Westchester as a soon-to-be-mom in 2014. “I made it my mission to find out all the things I could do with my new daughter. I did so much research it felt weird not sharing it with other moms who are just as eager to get out and about with their kids,” she says. Worthington started by posting about local events, along with tips and tricks, and has continued—three kids later and now with savvy Facebook and Instagram accounts (@babygotchat). “I also love sharing tips I’ve learned to make parenting easier,” she says.

What’s the best parenting advice you ever received?

What’s the best parenting advice you can give?

The advice I relate to the most is that our kids are more perceptive than we may care to admit, and the best thing you can do as a parent is relax if you want them to relax, have fun if you want them to have fun. I pay attention to my emotional temperature and I find that if I’m emitting the wrong vibes, it’s time to take a quick time out to reset myself so I can be a more stable presence.

Kids are flexible, so don’t be afraid to do little things to make your life easier. For example, we have a rule that our kids’ favorite toys, their loveys, don’t leave bed. This means we’ll never lose them in a parking lot or at an amusement park. Sure, they can bring other toys out with them sometimes, but it’s never their must-have animal.

Read more from Worthington at nymetroparents.com/babygotchat

Connect with us

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New Places, New Programs

Advocating for Unity Day Preschoolers Learn Literacy Through Play

Art Studio Moves to Rocky Point Studio E is slated to open its Rocky Point location this month. It will be larger than previous locations and will feature a pottery studio with 12 high-powered pottery wheels, hand-building stations, and a separate classroom for painting and drawing classes. Studio E offers art classes for preschoolers (ages 2-5), elementary schoolers (ages 5-8), tweens (ages 9-12), teens (ages 13-16), and adults (ages 18 and older). 77 Broadway, Rocky Point; studioeartclass.com.

YMCA in Huntington will offer a play-based literacy program beginning this month. It will be offered once a week for 45 minutes for children ages 3-4. Every week, children will engage in activities including games, drama, and art to review and build upon early literacy concepts taught in preschool. Some of the prereading skills being taught by the certified preschool teacher are phonetics, sight words, listening comprehension, and inferencing. 60 Main St., Huntington; 631-421-4242; ymcali.org.

Charles Kolin, a junior at Greens Farms Academy in Westport, CT, has overcome bullying to spearhead an initiative that will hopefully result in Unity Day (Oct. 23) being officially recognized by Congress as a day for students to come together in support of kindness, tolerance, and respect. Charles is working with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Congressman Jim Himes (D-CT), as well as the PACER Organization in Minnesota, to raise support for the resolution. Read more about Charles at nymetroparents. com/unityday.

What to Do When Your Child is the Bully

Diocese Implements Social-Emotional Learning Diocese of Rockville Centre is now offering Social and Emotional Learning training sessions for staff to enhance their ability to help students through selfawareness, self-management, responsible decision making, relationship skills, and social awareness. The SEL programs are an integrated part of elementary education from nursery through middle school. The goal is for students to develop healthy self-images, adequate coping mechanisms, empathy, and social skills. 516-280-2479; drvc.org.

Make sure your child knows the behavior is unacceptable and you expect it to stop. Then discuss the reasons behind the bullying to see if you can come up with alternative suggestions. Talk about how your child made the other child feel, relating times when your child might have felt the same way. Finally, brainstorm ideas of what your child might do to make the other child feel better. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Karen Horowitz, director of the Parenting Resource Network at the Friedberg JCC in Oceanside

LongIslandParent 11

Are you concerned about your child’s ability to learn? Is your child not receiving appropriate services at school? Schedule an apppointment for a neuropsychological evaluation today. Phone consultation and CSE attendance at no cost. Autism Spectrum Disorders ADHD Intellectual Impairment Language Impairment Learning Disabilities Depression/Anxiety

advice

Ask DadandBuried My son was dying to take drum lessons, so I signed him up and bought him a practice pad. Now, a few weeks later, he doesn’t want to practice and says he hates playing the drums. Should I force him to stay with it because it’s important to learn commitment, or let him quit and figure out something else he’s passionate about? —Allison R., Astoria, Queens

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his is a tough one, and I feel for you. I can’t imagine allowing my son to play the drums in the house. The kid is a walking migraine already! But hey, more power to you. As for the actual question—is it more important to teach kids perseverance and commitment than it is to stop the whining? It’s not an easy one. My 9-year-old likes two things: video games (Zelda) and reading (Percy Jackson). We encourage the latter, and we try to limit the former by promoting a wider range of interests beyond screen-time. But it’s not easy! I’m not sure if you know this, but children are stubborn. And often lazy. And sometimes annoying. And mine talk too much. Plus, they won’t go to bed on time. And don’t get me started on the snacking. Also—wait. I’ve gotten off-track. I think you need to gauge your son’s personality before making a decision. Does he have a track record of bailing on things? Or is this truly a case of the drums just not being for him? If you’re secure in the fact that percussion just isn’t for him and that there’s something else out there to wet his whistle, something he’ll give 110 percent to, I see no need to belabor it. But if it’s part of a trend—if he tends to quit activities he enjoys when the going gets tough—then maybe it’s a good idea to put on the black hat and force him to keep at it. Just make him practice in the basement. Our advice column features the wise and humorous commentary of Mike Julianelle, a 40-something blogger and influencer (aka @dadandburied), who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two kids.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DADANDBURIED? Send it to editor@nymetroparents.com with the subject “DadandBuried’s Advice.”

mommybites

Only Child No More 12 things to do with your first child before the second one arrives By Christina Vercelletto

uring your second pregnancy, it’s normal to have mixed feelings as your party of three nears its end. While there are even sweeter days ahead, you may feel melancholy and nervous about the change. How do you savor the waning weeks, while soothing any trepidation your child may be feeling? We came up with 12 ways to make this time memorable and reassuring. Make your child king (or queen) for a day. Designate a day when your kiddo is unequivocally in charge (within reason). After making it clear that she can’t, say, shave the dog, let her dictate what you do, where you go, and what you eat for an entire day. (Just keep reminding yourself this is a one-off. There is no harm in eating marshmallows for breakfast just this once.) Be spontaneous. Since spur-of-the-moment is not going to be in your vocabulary for a little while, surprise him with a favorite adventure you’ve planned for the day. Take a family portrait. Capture the final moments of your “first family” for posterity—and for your child. She’ll likely enjoy posing between her parents. And order a framed print to hang in her room. Pick out a big kid bed. Not only does leaving the crib behind have a practical urgency, but it will make your child feel important and grown-up. Do this sooner rather than later to help ensure that lastminute jitters don’t make him cling to the crib. Also have him choose his bedding—even if it clashes with the walls you just painted. Make something for the nursery. Explain that you need help decorating the baby’s room and suggest she create a masterpiece in whatever medium she prefers. Alternatively, browse through her artwork and ask if she’d be willing to donate one to the nursery. Define “the baby.” Make sure your child knows exactly who you’ll be bringing home from the hospital—i.e. an immobile,

sleepy, wee creature, rather than a playmate. If you can’t introduce him to a newborn, show him videos and pictures online. Come up with a secret language. Even if she’s 5 or 6 years old, she’s not yet able to clearly express herself when she feels jealous, worried, or confused. Come up with a simple signal—a word or a hand gesture—your child can use when she needs your reassurance. Take a sibling-moon. An inexpensive yet intimate mini vacation is bound to make your child feel special. Plan a trip to see relatives who can shower your soon-to-be big sib with 1-on-1 attention. Or hole up in a nearby hotel and order room service for three. Answer his questions. As much as you may try to hide any nervousness, you’re likely acting differently. The best thing you can do is explain as much as you can about everything that is going on. Answer his questions as completely and honestly as possible. Read her stories. Nightly story time may be difficult to maintain for a couple weeks after birth, so use the opportunity now to prepare her for what’s ahead. Let your child choose a few books about becoming a big sibling and turn the pages slowly so she has time to ask questions. Go shopping. Let your child pick out a welcome gift for the new baby, and then select a present for him. (T-shirts are popular, as are keepsakes or a toy your child has had his eye on.) Whether you frame it as a gift from the baby or from you as parents, it’s a way of celebrating your child’s transition to becoming a big sister or brother. Pack her a bag. Even if your child will stay at home with friends or family, prep a bag for her that makes her feel like an official member of Team Baby. Pack pajamas, toothbrush and toothpaste, hairbrush, and a change of clothes. Then tuck in a note about how much you love her—and how much you know the baby will too.

Mommybites’ nanny boards only feature postings from nannies’ current families. You can rely on their recommendations. If you need a nanny or babysitter, visit Mommybites.com. LongIslandParent 13

Choices, Choices, Choices Our area provides families with a variety of school options, allowing you to choose the best learning environment for your child. By Katelin Walling

e all worry about whether we’re making the best choices for our kids, and one thing most of us fret over is whether our children are getting the best education possible that is suited to their needs. In a lot of areas in the country, traditional district public schools may be the only option for kids. But living in the New York metro area, we are #blessed with an abundance of choices in addition to great public schools. While one school option doesn’t necessarily provide a better education than another, each type has pros and cons for every individual family. It’s up to you to determine which school setting best suits your child’s needs. So in honor of National School Choice Week (Jan. 26-Feb. 1), we dove into the differences between charter, home, independent, international, magnet, and parochial schools to help you make the best education decision for your children.

Charter Schools “The most important concept to get is that a charter school is a public school,” says Ian Rowe, CEO of Public Prep Network, a system of three nonprofit charter schools in New York City. But charter schools often have a specific focus, one that typically responds to a need articulated by public school families. Public Prep schools, for example, are all single sex (two schools for girls and one school for boys) and have a focus in STEM education. As with public schools, charter schools are tuition-free, though students have to apply for admission. Public Prep currently admits students via a lottery system due to high demand. Charter schools, though, tend to operate with fewer regulations than traditional public schools and can set their own curriculum. But there is typically an accountability system in which charters are evaluated each year to see if they are meeting the outcomes set by the state, Rowe adds. Plus, there is a renewal process every five years to determine whether the charter is able to continue. “So, there is a much greater accountability in return for the freedoms you have to operate as a charter,” Rowe says. 14

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Home Schools There are numerous motivations for a family to decide to homeschool their children, from religious and health reasons to a child’s learning style, aptitude level, or schedule (think child actors). There are also numerous options for home-schooling your child, whether you decide to take the lead in teaching, you enroll him in an online home-school program, such as the George Washington University Online High School, or you join a home-school community, such as Classical Conversations. Parents who decide to home-school rather than enroll their child in a physical school need to submit a letter of intent, an Individualized Home Instruction Plan, and quarterly reports by specific dates, according to the New York City Department of Education.

Independent Schools Also known as private schools, independent schools are funded by tuition and charitable donations as opposed to taxpayer dollars. “It is independently funded for the most part and also independent from the state to a certain degree,” says Scott Nelson, headmaster of Rye Country Day School, a college preparatory day school in Rye. “For instance, we don’t follow the NYS testing program (Regents), so we have more independence as far as curriculum choices.” To enroll in an independent school, students have to fill out an application, parents and the student have an interview, and the student has to take an entrance exam, either the Independent School Entrance Exam or the Secondary School Admissions Test, according to Nelson.

Magnet Schools

Though tuition is a factor in attending an independent school, many offer need-based financial aid. For instance, RCDS offers more than $5 million annually to 60 percent of students, Nelson says.

International Schools A second private school option, international schools are typically multi-cultural and integrate those different cultures into everyday learning. “We have families who hail from all over the world…and we embrace their backgrounds,” says Emily Benson, director of admissions at International Academy of New York in Manhattan. “We celebrate different times of the year that are holidays for those different cultures, and if we don’t actually make a big celebration about it, we at least discuss it.” Many international schools are bilingual. IANY, for instance, teaches Mandarin and Spanish, and students spend almost 40 percent of their time interacting in those languages. “When we have a family coming from, say, Egypt, we might be studying Spanish or Mandarin, but we will ask that child, how do you say this in Arabic,” Benson says of welcoming students’ cultures. “We encourage and embrace these other languages and we find that through the way we teach, our children are not only embracing different cultures...but they are also excited to share their home countries’ language and tradition.” As with other private schools, international schools have an application process, and some require testing while others do not. Many international schools also offer need-based financial aid.

Another tuition-free public school option, magnet schools are federally funded by competitive grants from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. Over the past few years, the NYC DOE has won funding for 31 magnet schools across 12 districts in New York City, says Todd Levitt, executive director of magnet programs of NYC DOE. Because of the grants, the NYC DOE is able to offer specialized thematic programs, curriculum, and approaches to teaching, and provide professional development, partnerships, residencies, and extra funding to support special programs, he adds. These 31 schools have a STEAM/STEM focus, and each individual school follows a theme (architecture, civic leadership, and global conservation to name a few). Partnerships are tailored to each school’s individual pursuits and include Columbia University, American Ballet Theatre, Lego, CUNY, NYIT, Apple Education, and Buck Institute of Education Project Based Learning. The grants allow magnet schools to have state-of-the-art technology, purchase new art and science supplies, and provide specialty rooms like broadcast studios, hydroponic garden labs, maker spaces, and STEAM labs. Though they are public schools, the NYC magnet schools have an application process through the NYC DOE Office of Enrollment and the magnet schools (email info@magnetschools. nyc for more information), but there is no screening or testing involved in applying.

Parochial Schools Catholic schools are private schools that follow a traditional curriculum but with an added religious component. Students enrolled in a Diocese of Rockville Centre school, for instance, are taught in accordance with the New York state learning standards and take the same Regents exams and SATs as public school students, but learning is infused with a religious curriculum directed by the Diocese, according to Gary Layton, director of marketing and enrollment for DRVC. “Because we are a school that is run by a religious institution, we take a more holistic view. It is not just about educating. It is about building character, instilling values. It is about the kindness, the respect they show each other. It is about doing service projects,” Layton says. Though the schools in the Diocese are Catholic schools, teach religion courses, and prepare students for their first Holy Communion and Confirmation, not all students practice Catholicism. Those that don’t practice are required to take and pass religion classes, but are not required to participate in religious events or sacraments. The Diocese of Rockville Centre requires applicants to fill out admissions paperwork, and there is a “modest tuition” that is typically supplemented by the Diocese and the Parish that runs the school, Layton says.

LongIslandParent 15

School Tour Questions These will help you gauge which school is best for your child. By Andrew Campanella, president of National School Choice Week

What is your approach to education, and what makes your school unique? This question gives the school’s representative a chance to describe their school’s greatest asset or attribute—in their own words. School leaders should be able to give you a clear answer and describe the different ways that their school stands out.

What are your school’s academic expectations for students? Ask this question to let school leaders know that you are focused on your child’s academic success, and that you want to talk about learning. This question will, hopefully, lead to a larger discussion of the school’s approaches and methods.

What are some of the things that you do to make sure that students are learning at, or above, their grade levels? This question will establish that you, too, have expectations for schools—while providing school leaders with opportunities to explain how they work toward accelerating student learning and success.

I want to make sure my son/daughter learns a lot. Are the classes challenging and rigorous, but also relevant and interesting? Children can often rise to meet the challenges of rigorous coursework, if it is presented in a relevant and interesting way. Ask this question to determine how a school combines rigor and relevance, so that your child truly absorbs useful knowledge and information.

Can you please tell me what you look for when you recruit teachers? How do you define an effective teacher? Ask this question to determine if the school has a specific approach to finding knowledgeable, talented educators whose skills align with the school’s values and culture. Do school leaders consider student learning and success in determining whether teachers are effective?

How do you regularly monitor and evaluate student learning, and what do you do if students are struggling? This question will help you find out when you will know if your child is learning at grade level, or if your child is struggling. For example, you do not want to wait a whole year to discover that your child needs extra help in a specific subject.

How do you choose your curriculum and textbooks? Do you have a specific approach? Ask this question, because if a school uses one specific curriculum or type of textbooks for all or most of its classes, you can research it when you get

home and look at examples. If the school uses several different curricula, find out how the school decides which is best.

Do your teachers use a specific instructional strategy or method? (If so, what is it called, and can you explain what that means or how that works?) This question will help you know what, specifically, happens in a classroom. If the school uses a particular instructional strategy, ask them to explain it. For example, if you are told that the school uses “differentiated instruction,” you might ask, “Can you describe how that looks day to day?”

Can you please tell me more about the different types of classes and activities you offer? This question will help you determine whether the school offers the classes, clubs, activities, and sports programs that will be of interest to your child. This question will also help you identify if the school offers catch-up coursework along with advanced or gifted classes.

How do you foster an environment of mutual respect between students, teachers, and parents? Care and respect cannot be easily measured on a test, but they should be experienced every single day in a school building. This question will help you gauge whether the school meets your standards for a caring environment and has built a culture of respect.

Please tell me more about your school’s approach to keeping students safe and preventing bullying. Ask this question to determine whether the school has specific plans, policies, and procedures that align to your goals and priorities. If you are specifically concerned about bullying, I encourage you to ask follow-up questions about this, too.

Please tell me about your school’s approach to homework and testing. Even if you do not worry too much about homework or testing, you want to make sure you know exactly what will be expected of you and your child. This question will help you get specific examples of school practices, so you can see if they align to your goals and priorities.

What are the opportunities you have for parents to be involved, and what are your expectations of parents? By asking this question, you can determine whether a school has a thoughtful approach to parental involvement and engagement—activities that should go beyond just raising money for the school.

Excerpt reprinted with permission of Andrew Campanella, The School Choice Roadmap, Beaufort Books, New York, NY.

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Education Academic Enrichment and Educational Services Girls Inc. of long island

819 Grand Blvd., Deer Park 631-940-3749 x3720 girlsincli.org Girls Inc. of long island inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Visit girlsincli. org to learn more about the Bold Future Leaders Program which brings together high school girls to focus on leadership development, college and career preparedness, and life skills to foster bold successful futures.

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Director Dr. Lynne Manouvrier LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 liu.edu/giftedyouth The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the recognition of society’s special responsibilities for children with demonstrably superior intellectual ability. The LIU Center for Gifted Youth offers extraordinary teachers recruited from leading schools in the metropolitan area, and university-level facilities.

Sylvan Learning Centers of Mineola and Huntington

393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 516-743-9943 locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/ mineola-ny 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-424-5600 locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/ huntington-ny sylvanlearning@optonline.net Sylvan’s Personalized Tutoring programs in reading, writing, mathematics, SAT and ACT Prep will improve your child’s skills and confidence. We use a stateof-the-art assessment, personal learning plans, and certified teachers to ensure the high level of quality instruction and support that Sylvan prides itself on.

Village East Gifted - Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted (VEG), open seven days-a-week, offers a rigorous and highly-creative academic program, in all subject areas, to gifted students ages 2-16. Its CORE curriculum includes instructional writing/grammar, geography, global studies, STEAM, mathematics, Latin/Greek Etymology, SAT/ACT vocabulary enrichment, business, anatomy/physiology, advanced study skills, and creative problem solving.

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (962254) Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org info@ymcali.org The YMCA of Long Island’s before- and after-school programs support children in reaching their full potential by providing academic support and hands-on enrichment experiences in a safe, structured environment for children in kindergarten through middle school. The YMCA of Long Island partners with school districts in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Parochial & Religious Schools Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

Multiple Locations 516-280-2479 licatholicelementaryschools.org Long Island’s Catholic elementary schools are 43 unique and beautiful schools in Nassau and Suffolk counties that educate the whole child in the spirit of service and compassion. Coupled with God’s love, we strive to inspire each child to grow spiritually and academically in a diverse and challenging world.

Holy Angels Regional School

1 Division St., Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org mconnell@holyangelsregional.org Since 1923, Holy Angels Regional School has illuminated hearts and minds of students through academic excellence and the values of Catholic faith. Our mission is to provide each student the opportunity to grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically in a safe and caring environment.

Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School

131 Brookville Road, Brookville 516-626-1700 x546 luhi.org admissions@luhi.org LuHi is a faith-based, college preparatory school serving students from sixth-12th grades and developing tomorrow’s leaders. We empower every member of our close-knit community to achieve and grow personally, academically, and spiritually. With an education at LuHi, students leave our campus fully prepared for the challenges of higher education.

Preschools Alternatives For Children

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 South Service Road, Dix Hills 631-271-0777 14 Research Way, East Setauket

631-331-6400 168 Hill St., Southampton 631-283-3272 alternatives4children.org Providing quality, affordable daycare and special education services since 1988. Creating a natural learning environment fostering each child’s development. Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education evaluation site and provider. Preschool special education, integrated classes, daycare; classes taught by NYS special education and early childhood teachers, and certified daycare staff.

Posey School

57 Main St., Northport 631-757-2700 poseyschoolofdance.com poseyschoolofdance@gmail.com Posey Preschool in Northport offers a unique preschool experience for ages 2-5. We are a play-based, arts-centered, hands-on preschool where students experience dance, art, and yoga classes during the school day, as well as age-appropriate academics. Small class size, NYS- and CPR-certified teachers. 9am-12pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. 631-757-2700.

Private Schools Building Blocks Developmental Preschool

29 Pinewood Drive, Commack 631-499-1237 bbdps.com Building Blocks is an early childhood learning center focusing on education of all young children. We offer parent and child groups, preschool classes, and childcare. As a New York state-accredited special education program for more than 36 years, we provide special instruction, ABA, speech, occupational, and physical therapy, psychological and diagnostic services.

Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

Holy Angels Regional School

Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School 131 Brookville Road, Brookville 516-626-1700 x546

luhi.org admissions@luhi.org LuHi is a faith-based, college preparatory school serving students from sixth-12th grades and developing tomorrow’s leaders. We empower every member of our close-knit community to achieve and grow personally, academically, and spiritually. With an education at LuHi, students leave our campus fully prepared for the challenges of higher education.

Special Needs Alternatives For Children

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 South Service Road, Dix Hills 631-271-0777 14 Research Way, East Setauket 631-331-6400 168 Hill St., Southampton 631-283-3272 alternatives4children.org Providing quality, affordable daycare and special education services since 1988. Creating a natural learning environment fostering each child’s development. Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education evaluation site and provider. Preschool special education, integrated classes, daycare; classes taught by NYS special education and early childhood teachers, and certified daycare staff.

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool

The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children

750 Hicksville Road, Seaford 516-520-6000 littlevillage.org jon.feingold@littlevillage.org The Hagedorn Little Village School is a notfor-profit school highly regarded for providing outstanding educational and therapeutic services for children with a wide range of developmental disabilities. HLVS provides year-round programs and services that include diagnostic evaluations and treatment, early intervention, a preschool, an elementary school, SEIT, and related services.

Winston Preparatory School

30 Deforest Road, Dix Hills 212-719-5598 x2213 winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/li liadmissions@winstonprep.edu Winston Preparatory School is a highly individualized and responsive setting for students in grades third through 12th with learning differences. Our unique model of education for the individual provides intense skill remediation while encouraging students to build independence, resilience, responsibility, self-awareness, and self-advocacy.

LongIslandParent 17

tech for kids

Our Favorite Podcasts for Kids These audio stories are a great substitute for screens By Madeleine Burry

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

o you look forward to your commute because you can’t wait to hear the latest episode of a true crime story or get advice on anything from finance to relationships to grammar? Podcasts are entertaining and informative for grown-ups—and the same holds true for kids. In fact, children of all ages can build important skills by listening to podcasts, says Maggie McGuire, the CEO of Pinna, an audio-streaming service for kids. Take toddlers: Exposing them to language-rich, ageappropriate audio “helps them build their emerging vocabulary and aids in building their background knowledge across a wide variety of topics and themes,” McGuire says. Plus, podcasts encourage imagination and curiosity. Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there for little kids, bigger kids, and teens.

Podcasts for Preschoolers Story Time This bi-monthly podcast features simple but engaging 20-minute original stories, read by a rotating cast of narrators (many with British accents). While the easy-to-follow tales are a natural fit for bedtime, there’s no reason not to listen in the morning, after lunch, or during a long car ride (bedtime.fm; ages 2-13). Quentin and Alfie’s ABC Adventures Each of the 26 episodes covers a letter of the alphabet—which is a fun way to introduce kids to letters and sounds. The story follows the adventures of Alfie and his babysitter, Quentin, everywhere from amusement parks to the zoo (pinna.fm; ages 3-5).

Story Pirates This podcast is billed as “by kids, for kids.” Here’s how it works: Kids submit stories and the cast (actors, comedians, and musicians) turns them into hilarious sketch comedies and songs. It’s an upbeat, hilarious show—one episode features a song about trashloving raccoons (gimletmedia.com; ages 3 and older).

Podcasts for Big Kids Wow in the World NPR’s first podcast for kids, now in its third year, is co-hosted by Guy Raz and Mindy Thomas and aims to leave kids (and parents) saying “wow” at the end of each science-themed episode. Explanations to intriguing questions like “why do zebras have stripes?” and “how do onions make us cry?” are paired with zippy background music (npr.org/podcasts; ages 4-10). Grim, Grimmer, Grimmest Best-selling author Adam Gidwitz uses dramatic twists and flourishes to share fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm with a classroom of kids (who interject with feedback and opinions.) Before each story, Gidwitz provides a content warning (in one episode he warned about name-calling), and assigns a rating of grim, grimmer, or grimmest to denote just how weird and scary the episode will be (podcasts.apple.com; ages 6-13). Saturday Morning Cereal Box This 2-hour podcast bills itself as “a weekly music show for the whole family,” but (luckily) the songs avoid cheesy lyrics, high-pitched voices, and poor production. Instead, the genrespanning, genuinely interesting music provides a perfect backdrop for hanging with the kids (saturdaycerealbowl. podbean.com; all ages).

Podcasts for Teens Stuff You Should Know This show explores topics as diverse as Ironman triathlons, paternity testing, scurvy, and how highways work. While it’s aimed at adults, curious teens will delight in finding out fascinating back stories they might not have thought about before (stuffyoushouldknow.com; ages 13 and older). NPR Politics As we enter an election year, it’s important for teens (who will soon be voting) to understand the issues. This non-partisan shows digs into the news on a daily basis—drop into a current episode or tune in on Thursdays for a roundup of the week’s news (npr.org/podcasts; ages 13 and older).

Your Search for the Perfect Summer Camp is over!

SPORTIME 2020 SUMMER CAMPS PRESCHOOL UNDER 10 TENNIS TENNIS & SPORTS JMTA SUMMER TENNIS TRAINING VOLLEYBALL HOCKEY MORE!

Camp locations across Long Island, including in the Hamptons, and in NYC, Westchester and the Capital Region. We’ve got your summer fun covered!

Visit us online to select the camp for you www.SportimeCamps.com | 631-269-1055 Camp programs vary at each SPORTIME location

Camps start June and run throughout the summer! Register Today!

Janine Stiene, M.A., President

Licensed Speech Pathologists & Myofunctional Therapists NOW HIRING the following positions: Speech Language Pahtologist, Clinical Fellow, Secretary, Medical Biller, Marketing Coordinator. To apply, send your resume to suffolkspeech@lispeech.com

Specializing in the Treatment and Correction of: Language Disorders � Memory & Auditory Processing Dif�iculties � Fluency Feeding & Swalling Problems/Aversions � Motor Planning Disorders Voice Disorders � Deviate Swallowing � Thumb and Finger Sucking Articulation Disorders � Oral Facial Muscle Weakness � Tongue Thrust

Specialized Therapy Approaches Including: PROMPT Therapy � Individual Feeding Therapy Augmentative Communication Evaluations & Therapy

Dear Hank & John John Green—the chart-topping YA author of books such as The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska—and his musician brother, Hank, answer questions, share advice (which they admit is “dubious”), and delve into pop culture. One recent episode featured a long and surprisingly funny discussion of cottage cheese (wnycstudios.org/podcasts; ages 15 and older).

LongIslandParent 19

LIU POSTʼS CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH SPRING 2020 AND SUMMER 2020 PROGRAMS

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child? LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 40th annual program for gifted children. The spring program runs Saturdays from Feb. 1, 2020 to April 25, 2020 and the summer program runs Monday to Friday from July 6 to July 30, 2020. The spring program is open to gifted children K-8 and the summer program is open to gifted children 2-8. The program expands studentsʼ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

Feb. 1, 2020 - April 25, 2020 July 6 - July 30, 2020

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

LIU Post • School of Professional Studies • 720 Northern Blvd. • Brookville, NY 11548-1300 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth • Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, Director

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE ON LONG ISLAND! SUNY COLLEGE FARMINGDALE AT OLD WESTBURY STATE COLLEGE 516.226.CAMP 631.769.CAMP

ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE PATCHOGUE 631.572.0232

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22 Editor’s Hot Tickets 23 NYC Events Worth the Trek 24 Holiday Fun, Nature Lovers 25 Special Needs 26 Fairs, Festivals, & Markets

27 Theater, Concerts, & Movies 28 Educational Activities 30 Little Makers 32 Get Active! 34 Museums & Exhibits

EDITOR’S

T O H TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the January 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! First Day Hike FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 10-11:30am WHERE: Sunken Meadow State Park, 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: Discover the changes in the forest during the winter and search for signs of wildlife. WHY WE LOVE IT: Breathe in the fresh air and embrace a new start to 2020! WANT TO GO? 888-451-4948. parks.ny.gov.

Disney On Ice Presents ‘Dream Big’ WHEN: Jan. 9-12, see website for showtimes WHERE: NYCB LIVE, Home of The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Share every magical moment filled with breathtaking ice-skating and beloved songs and stories that give you a reason to believe! WHY WE LOVE IT: The fun features Moana, Anna and Elsa, and Miguel from Coco. WANT TO GO? $15-$140. 516-231-4848. nycblive.com.

FrozenFest WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 19, 11am-2pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Join this family-friendly event inspired by the Frozen films. Find out about arctic creatures, touch a walrus tusk and narwhal tusk, have fun creating lots of Frozen crafts, and enjoy a meet and greet with Elsa! WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a Frozen fest, with a healthy dose of nature fun! WANT TO GO? $6; $15 children; family-level members: free for adults, $10 children. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Happy Lunar New Year! FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 23, grades K-2, 5-5:45pm; grades 3-5, 6:15-7pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach 22

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Design a paper lantern and dragon, then try your hand at calligraphy as you learn to write “whale” in Chinese! Registration required. WHY WE LOVE IT: Welcome the Year of the Rat with the beautiful traditions and good luck symbols of the Lunar New Year. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Under The Big Top Extravaganza WHEN: Jan. 25-Feb. 1, Saturdays, 11am WHERE: CM Performing Arts Center, 931 Montauk Highway, Oakdale AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family to “The Greatest Show on Earth!” WHY WE LOVE IT: Admission includes face painting, popcorn, water, and games. WANT TO GO? $15. 631-218-2810. cmpac.com.

Big Apple Circus WHEN: Through Feb. 2: see website for showtimes WHERE: Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Catch the 42nd season of this world-renowned circus, celebrating the heartbeat, everyday delights, and spirit of New York City with astounding talent from around the world, led by Brooklyn-born singer and Ringmaster Storm Marrero. WHY WE LOVE IT: All your classic circus delights in a climate-controlled Big Top tent with tiered seating, perfect for families with young children. WANT TO GO? $35 and up; free for children younger than 3 (on lap). 212-721-6500. bigapplecircus.com.

‘Little Red Riding Hood’ WHEN: Jan. 18-Feb. 22, see website for schedule WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Little Red Riding Hood learns a big lesson about safety in this modern musical telling. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a great intro to theatre for littlest ones! WANT TO GO? $10. 631-928-9100. theatrethree.com.

‘The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley’ WHEN: Jan. 25-Feb. 23, Saturdays, Sundays, and Feb. 21, see website for times WHERE: The Argyle Theatre, 34 W. Main St., Babylon Village AGES: All WHAT: The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley is filled with infectious songs and non-stop adventure, making this a perfect show to introduce young audiences to the magic of theatre. Sponsored by Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center. WHY WE LOVE IT: Based on the best-selling book series, Stanley folds his way around the world with his flat-tastic hijinks! WANT TO GO? $15. 631-230-3500. argyletheatre.com.

Thomas and Friends™: Explore the Rails WHEN: Jan. 18-May 10, see website for schedule WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Climb aboard a large model of Thomas the Tank Engine, race trains along a giant track, work together to sort and load cargo, and maintain engines. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids engage in a variety of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) challenges in this exhibit, from a simple sorting and shape identification to more complex engineering obstacles. WANT TO GO? $14; $13 seniors 65 and older; free for members. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

HOT TICKE T

NYC Events

WORTH THE TREK Cirque Mechanics’ 42FT

WANT TO GO? $20 adults; $15 children younger than 17 (Family 4-pack for $40). 718-392-0722. secrettheatre.com.

Tomatoland Popup WHEN: Through Jan. 25: Monday-Saturday, 12-8pm; Sunday, 12-7pm WHERE: Tomatoland, 484 Broome St., Soho, Manhattan AGES: 3 and older WHAT: The exhibition provides New Yorkers with view from a tomato’s perspective. The popup aims to remind New York residents to pay more attention to keeping a friendly environment while developing the city economy in the next decade. WANT TO GO? $16-$22. 646-480-4849. thetomatoland.com.

Pow Comic Con WHEN: Jan. 25-26, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Expo Center, 72 Noble St., Greenpoint, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Created by fans for fans, Pow Comic Con brings together the best in comic books, collectibles, gaming, sci-fi, fantasy, cosplay, horror, and all things pop culture. WANT TO GO? $20-$34. powcomiccon.com.

Big Apple Circus WHEN: Through Feb. 2: see website for showtimes WHERE: Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Catch the 42nd season of this world-renowned circus, celebrating the heartbeat, everyday delights, and spirit of NYC with talent from around the world, led by Brooklyn-born singer and Ringmaster Storm Marrero. WANT TO GO? $35 and up; free for children younger than 3 (on lap). 212-721-6500. bigapplecircus.com.

WHEN: Through Jan. 5: see website for showtimes WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: With a brilliant blur of sequined stilts, feathered frocks, and flashing circus stripes, the endlessly inventive Cirque Mechanics upends expectations in a dizzying, dazzling array of acts. WANT TO GO? $22 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

‘Princess Particular’ WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City, Queens AGES: All WHAT: Princess Particular is obsessed by her latest scheme to become a ballerina. Join perky palace-goers for pliés, pastries, and “toe food!”

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Chinese New Year Art FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 27, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Ring in the Year of the Rat with fun crafts at the library! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Nature Lovers First Day Hike FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 10am WHERE: Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Meet at the Dry Stock Building for this morning hike. WANT TO GO? 631-423-1770. parks.ny.gov.

Holiday Fun Holiday Kids Club WHEN: Jan. 2-3, Thursday-Friday, 9:15am-12pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: 4-7 WHAT: Each session of this half-day drop-off program is dedicated to the exploration of a different theme guaranteed to keep kids engaged during their time away from class. In addition to themed crafts and activities, kids will enjoy a healthy snack and, of course, ample opportunity to play in the exhibit gallery. WANT TO GO? $65 per day; $50 per day museum members. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

Magic of Lights WHEN: Through Jan. 4: Sunday-Thursday, 5-10pm; Friday and Saturday, 5-11pm WHERE: Jones Beach State Park, 1000 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: The magical route is overflowing with spectacular light displays that bring your favorite holiday themes and characters to life. WANT TO GO? $20 car. magicoflights.com.

Holiday Tribute Show Celebrating Gene Kelly WHEN: Through Jan. 11: Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, 11:30am; Sundays, 12:30pm WHERE: Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Educational & Cultural Center, 97P Main St., Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: See the holiday show that celebrates this legend. Lunch, dessert, and tea served. Reservations required. WANT TO GO? $50; $48 seniors & children younger than 15. 631-689-5888. stonybrookvillage.com. 24

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

First Day Hike FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 1:30-3:30pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park, 3525 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale AGES: All WHAT: Kick off the New Year with a hike to explore the preserve. WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

First Day Hike FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 12pm WHERE: Hallock State Park Preserve, 6062 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Hike along the Hallock State Park Preserve beachfront to check for cold-stunned sea turtles and to pick up beach trash blown in by the winter storms. WANT TO GO? 631-315-5475. parks.ny.gov.

Trout Birthday Party WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 5, 2-4pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Join Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium to celebrate the birth of their baby trout–complete with birthday cake! WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 kids ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

Drop of Nature FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 10-11am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Stop in for nature activities the whole family can enjoy! If weather permits, these activities will take place outdoors. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

K9 Reading FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Head to the library for a 20-minute reading session with a certified therapy dog. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Children’s Program: Deer Detectives WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, 3525 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Expand your deer knowledge with an afternoon of indoor and outdoor activities. WANT TO GO? $4. 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

Drop of Nature FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 4-5pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Stop in for nature activities the whole family can enjoy! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

The Whale Next Door: Whales Around Long Island WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 6:30pm refreshments; 7pm chat WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Join this visually rich presentation about the diverse whales and pinnipeds found locally today, from energetic dolphins to enormous fin whales. Find out how recent research illuminates our understanding of our colossal neighbors, and how our actions impact their future. RSVP online. WANT TO GO? $10 suggested; museum members & CRESLI members: $5 suggested. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Jungle Bob Storytime FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 11am-12pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Join Jungle Bob as he reads his new book Lenny, a Most Unusual Reptile and meet some real, live characters from the story. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Winter Learn and Play 2020 WHEN: Jan. 13-March 16, select Mondays, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Suffolk County Farm, 350 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Explore the farm with hands-on-activities, stories, songs, crafts and a wagon ride (weather permitting), and visit the animals. Each session has been designed to accentuate the child/ caregiver learning experience. WANT TO GO? $14 per class (minimum of 4 classes); $7 siblings over 12 months; free siblings younger than 12 months. 631-852-4610. ccesuffolk.org.

Special Needs Let’s Get Together: Winter 2020 FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 3, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children of all abilities are invited to develop friendships and social skills through language, art, and physical activities. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Making Memories by the Sea WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 2pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: Adult WHAT: A craft-based program for visitors living with dementia and their care partners. Explore the museum and create something special to take home. Light refreshments served. Register online or call. WANT TO GO? $12 senior and caregiver pair; members half off. 631-387-3418 x10. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Sensory Storytime FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 10-11am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Books, movement, music, and hands-on activities are included in this story time designed for children with sensory integration challenges. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

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AGES: All WHAT: Join this family-friendly event inspired by the Frozen films. Find out about arctic creatures, touch a walrus tusk and narwhal tusk, have fun creating lots of Frozen crafts, and enjoy a meet and greet with Elsa! WANT TO GO? $6; $15 children; family-level members: adults free; $10 children. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Winter Celebration Festival FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 11am-3pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, 3525 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the many wonders of winter through exciting experiments, hands-on activities, and crafts! WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

Draw In! Winterfest at Heckscher Museum FREE WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 26, 12-4pm WHERE: Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Meet and create with artist Robin Cooper, enjoy an array of fun art projects, and explore their locally-sourced exhibition! WANT TO GO? 631-351-3250. heckscher.org.

Fairs, Festivals, & Markets Preschool Fair FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 7-8:30pm WHERE: East Islip Public Library, 381 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: Adult WHAT: Representatives from local preschools and day care facilities will answer questions and provide information regarding their programs. WANT TO GO? 631-581-9200. eipl.org.

Rubber Ducky Party WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 11am-1pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Go on a ducky scavenger hunt, decorate your own rubber ducky to take home, and lots of other quacky crafts! WANT TO GO? $6; $12 children; members half off. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

FrozenFest WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 19, 11am-2pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Theater, Concerts, & Movies ‘Frosty the Snowman’ WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 5, 2:30pm WHERE: BayWay Arts Center Children’s Theatre, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: All WHAT: Frosty and his friend Jenny must save the town of Chillsville from Ethel Pierpot’s evil plan to melt all the snow. WANT TO GO? $13; $11 in advance. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

BenAnna Band Family Concert FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, 10-10:45am WHERE: Northport-East Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport AGES: 2 ½ to 5 WHAT: Kids will go bananas for this high-energy musical duo that will have them singing, dancing, and playing along on instruments. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-261-6930. nenpl.org.

Family Night Out FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 17, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: All WHAT: Bring the whole family to spend an evening out at the movies! WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

‘Annie’ WHEN: Through Jan. 20: check website or call box office WHERE: Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: Based on the popular comic strip, Annie has become a worldwide phenomenon and features musical hits like “Tomorrow.” WANT TO GO? $38; $34 seniors; $25 students. 631724-3700. smithtownpac.org.

Monster Jam WHEN: Jan. 31-Feb. 2, Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 1pm and 7pm; Sunday, 1pm WHERE: NYCB LIVE, Home of The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: See skilled athletes compete head-to-head in

Monster Jam trucks, speedsters and ATVs, tearing up the dirt in Freestyle, 2 Wheel Skills Challenge™, and several racing competitions. WANT TO GO? $20-$95. 516231-4848. nycblive.com.

‘The Little Mermaid’ WHEN: Jan. 12-Feb. 15, Jan. 2, 11am; Jan. 25, Feb. 8 and Feb. 15, 2pm WHERE: BayWay Arts Center Children’s Theatre, 265 E. Main

St., East Islip AGES: All WHAT: Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends in a magical underwater kingdom. WANT TO GO? $13; $11 in advance. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ WHEN: Jan. 16-Feb. 23, Thursdays and Fridays, 7:30pm;

Saturdays, 2:30pm and 7:30pm; Sundays, 2pm; Feb. 19, 7:30pm WHERE: The Argyle Theatre, 34 W. Main St., Babylon Village AGES: All WHAT: This fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World.” WANT TO GO? $35-$79. 631230-3500. argyletheatre.com.

Providing Services for over 50 Years

The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children (HLVS), is a not-for-profit program that provides services for infants and children up to 11 years of age with learning, language, and social delays, motor impairments, and autism with no direct cost to families:

• Evaluations • Early Intervention (Birth–3) • SEIT • CSE Itinerant Services • ABA Home Programs

Related Services: • Speech • OT/PT • Parent Training • Family Support Services

Special Ed Classes: • Preschool (3-5) • School age (5-11) • Inclusion

750 Hicksville Road Seaford, NY 11783 516.520.6000 • littlevillage.org

Funded and regulated by Nassau County (NCDOH) and Suffolk County (SCDOH) Departments of Heath, NYS, NYS ED Department Early intervention (EI) and Committee for Preschool Special Education (CPSE) services are for children who have or are suspected of having a developmental delay or disability. Evaluations must be referred by NCDOH/SCDOH for EI and/or to the local school district for CPSE. Services are provided based on an individual child’s elegibility as established by NYS DOH and/or NYS ED department and local government at no direct cost to parents. Parents are responsible for fees/costs associated with childcare.

LongIslandParent 27

WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 7-12 WHAT: Work in teams to solve different STEM challenges! Prizes will be awarded. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

What Do You Know About Snow? FREE

Educational Activities Early Childhood–1-2-3 Explore with Me! FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 3, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 1½-2½ WHAT: Bring your little one to explore some fun-filled activities that will stimulate their senses. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Family Program: Mad Scientist Lab WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 10-11:30am WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, 3525 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale AGES: 7 and older WHAT: During this hands-on program, you will participate in fun and exciting experiments. WANT TO GO? $4. 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

Coding from Scratch FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 7-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 8-12 WHAT: Learn how to use the programming app Scratch, then code your very own creation. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Construction Zonev WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 10-11am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 2-5 WHAT: Bring in your little construction workers for some imaginative block play. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

STEM Challenge FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 7-8pm 28

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, ages 5-8: 5-5:45pm; ages 9-12: 6-6:45pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Sharpen your science skills with hands-on, snow-themed experiments. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Bilingual Storytime FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 1-4 WHAT: Join the library for stories and songs in Spanish and English, then make a craft with your child. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Junior Writers FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, 7-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Learn all about writing and play games in this fun-filled, author-led workshop! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Play & Sing FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 10-10:30am; 10:45-11:15am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: Newborn to 3 WHAT: There’s no better way to spend the morning than with your little one sharing stories, songs, and rhymes. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Idea Lab FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 3-4pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Join the library in their makerspace to create, code, and tinker in this STEAM-based program! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Instrument Exploration FREE WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 2-3pm WHERE: East Islip Public Library, 381 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Learn about instruments such as the clarinet, flute, guitar, ukulele, violin, French horn, and more with musician Adam King. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-581-9200. eipl.org.

Don’t Be a Yeti! FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 13, 10-10:45am or 11-11:45am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Never feed a Yeti spaghetti! Join the library for some funny stories and activities. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Robot Petting Zoo FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 13, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Even the littlest patrons can have hands-on fun with items from the Library of Things! WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Keyboarding Practice FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 13, 6-7pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, Selden building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Learn to type fast and accurately by playing a fun online game! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. mcplibrary.org.

Dance With Me FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 10-10:45am, 11-11:45am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 1½-2½ WHAT: Join Great South Bay Dance for creative movement dance activities, free play, tumbling on mats, and a story. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Zine Club FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 15, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Draw, write, and collage about your favorite topic or interest and become the author of your very own zine. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

From Sap to Syrup FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 15, 4-5pm WHERE: Northport-East Northport Public Library, 185 Larkfield Road, East Northport AGES: 9-12 WHAT: In this fun, interactive program, kids will discover the science, history, math, and Native American lore behind this tasty treat. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-261-2313. nenpl.org.

Snowman Fun FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 2-5 WHAT: Join A Time for Kids, Inc. for a special hour of wintery fun! WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Rockin’ Babies FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 17, 10-10:30am or 10:45-11:15am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library Selden Building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: Newborn to 3 WHAT: Share stories, songs, and rhymes. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Learn to Take Care of YOU FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 17, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join Christine Lomangiano from A Voice Above Wellness to learn about taking care of yourself. Children can participate in activities with library staff. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Podcast Club for Kids FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24, 7-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Share your thoughts and ideas and learn about audio recording and what it takes to make your own podcast. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Beginners American Sign Language FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 28, 6-7pm WHERE: East Islip Public Library, 381 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: 9-14 WHAT: Learn sign language with Miss Nicole by playing fun games and activities. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-581-9200. eipl.org.

Sensory Playground FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 29, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 19 months to 5 years WHAT: Explore different activity stations that will stimulate your senses and encourage learning. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Teen Writers Workshop FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 31, 7:30-8:45pm WHERE: Northport-East Northport Public Library, 185 Larkfield Road, East Northport AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join fellow writers to discuss your ideas and get feedback on your work. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-261-2313. nenpl.org. LongIslandParent 29

AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Learn how to make tasty “sushi” with a variety of confectionaries. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-261-2313. nenpl.org.

Football Jersey Cookies FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 6-7pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, Selden building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Decorate four jersey cookies and take home in a bakery box. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

DIY Save-Spend-Share Banks FREE

Little Makers Teen Paint Night FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 5:30-7pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Follow an instructor to create a masterpiece. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Sugar Cube Challenge FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 6pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Test your skills by building an igloo out of only sugar cubes and glue. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Free with Westhampton Free Library card. 631-2883335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Snowman at Night Mosaic FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 6-7pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 8-10 WHAT: Have fun creating a wintry, mosaic snowman set against a painted picture frame. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Sugar Painting FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 11am WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Learn to mix your own paint with sugar and create a winter scene that will glisten when you are finished. Registration required. WANT TO GO? Free with Westhampton Free Library card. 631-2883335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Candy Sushi FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2-3pm WHERE: Northport-East Northport Public Library, 185 Larkfield Road, East Northport 30

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 6-7pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Make a three section save-spend-share bank which will aid you in handling your money in a responsible manner. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

AdvoKids–Peaceful Paintings WHEN: Monday, Jan. 20, 11am, 1pm, 3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Pay tribute to Dr. King’s message of peace by creating a colorful collage. WANT TO GO? $4 fee plus admission: $14; $13 seniors 65 and older; free for members. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Geometric Canvas Painting FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 23, 7-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Using painter’s tape and your creativity, make a fun and colorful piece of art! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

3D Design and Printing Workshop FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 10-11am WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Learn the basics of TinkerCAD, a 3D computer-aided design software, and make something to take home at a later date. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Velvet Art To Go FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 29, 7-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 7-12 WHAT: Color your velvet art keychain and attach it to an accessory at home! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

K R A M UR AR YO END L A C

Sunday, March 8, 11am-2:30pm

Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex

Hosted by

Fun For Kids • Activities

• Crafts

• Bounce Houses

• Sports

• Games

Efficient For Parents Meet directors from camps, summer programs, destinations, local programs and more.

Pre-register today: licampfair.com

Exhibitor & Sponsorship Opportunities

LongIslandParent 31

Holiday Break Ice Skating WHEN: Through Jan. 5: see website for days and times WHERE: The Rinx in Hauppauge, 660 Terry Road, Hauppauge AGES: All WHAT: Join The Rinx in Hauppauge for skating! WANT TO GO? $12; $9.50 children 11 and younger; $6 seniors; $6 skate rentals. 631-232-3222. therinx.com.

Yoga Time FREE

Get Active! Family Game Night FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 2, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy some time with your family playing board games and video games at the library! WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Friday Night Teen Programs: Winter 2020 FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 3, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, Selden building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join other teens for trivia night. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Winter Reading Kick-Off: BINGO! FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 3, 2-3pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Sign up for the winter reading challenge, play different games of bingo, and win prizes! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Philadelphia Wings @ New York Riptide WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 7:30pm WHERE: NYCB Live, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Box Lacrosse is back on Long Island! WANT TO GO? $15-$65.50. 516-402-3006. newyorkriptide.com.

Port Jefferson Holiday Ice Skating WHEN: Through Jan. 4: see website for days and times WHERE: The Rinx at Harborfront Park, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: All WHAT: Skate outside with the breathtaking backdrop of Port Jefferson Harbor! WANT TO GO? $11; $8.50 children 11 and younger; $5.50 seniors; $5.50 skate rentals. 631-403-4357. therinx.com. 32

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, ages 2-5: 5-5:45pm; ages 6-8: 6-6:45pm; ages 9-12: 7-7:45pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 2-5 WHAT: Learn some yoga poses at the library. Mats will be provided. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Friday Night Teen Programs: Winter 2020 FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, Selden building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join the library for teen game night. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Switch Game Time FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 12-2pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, Selden building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 12-17 WHAT: Play some multi-player Nintendo Switch games with other teens. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Winter Run Series 5K WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 11am WHERE: Heckscher State Park, 1 Heckscher State Parkway, East Islip AGES: All WHAT: Each of the four races in the series will be 5K in length and will include an awards ceremony, refreshments, and raffle prizes. Register online. WANT TO GO? $40 for all races in series; $15 individual race. 631321-3510. elitefeats.com.

Minecraft Maniacs FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 5:30-6:30pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Get together with other Minecraft maniacs and play together in Creative mode or against each other in Survival mode. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Minecraft LAN Party FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 6:45-7:45pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd.,

Centereach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Play with (or against) your friends in Survival mode! Or make a team to take on an internet challenge. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7-7:45pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 5-7 WHAT: Join Great South Bay Dance for a fun and interactive dance class. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Friday Night Teen Program FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 17, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library Selden Building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Get creative with other teens. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Babies Boogie FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 10-10:45am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: Newborn to 23 months WHAT: Boogie, wiggle, and giggle with your little dancing partner! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Toddlers Tango FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 11-11:45am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 2-4 WHAT: Clap your hands, stomp your feet, and wiggle with the beat! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Georgia Swarm @ New York Riptide WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 7:30pm WHERE: NYCB Live, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Box Lacrosse is back on Long Island! WANT TO GO? $15-$65.50 . 516-402-3006. newyorkriptide.com.

Magic the Gathering Tournament FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Northport-East Northport Public Library, 185 Larkfield Road, East Northport AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Bring your favorite deck to the library to battle fellow teens in one-on-one duels. Prizes will be awarded! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-261-2313. nenpl.org.

Winter Run Series 5K WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 19, 11am WHERE: Robert Moses State Park, 600 Robert Moses State Pwy., Babylon AGES: All WHAT: Each of the four races in the series will be 5K in length and will include an awards ceremony, refreshments, and raffle prizes. Register online. WANT TO GO? $40 for all races in series; $15 individual race. 631321-3510. elitefeats.com.

Nintendo Night: Mega Man FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Northport-East Northport Public Library, 185 Larkfield Road, East Northport AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Discuss Nintendo games new and old, make fun gamer crafts, and participate in gaming competitions for prizes! Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-261-2313. nenpl.org.

San Diego Seals @ New York Riptide WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 7:30pm WHERE: NYCB Live, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Box Lacrosse is back on Long Island! WANT TO GO? $15-$65.50 . 516-402-3006. newyorkriptide.com.

Winter Run Series 5K WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 26, 11am WHERE: Sunken Meadow State Park, 25A and Sunken Meadow Pkwy, Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: Each of the four races in the series will be 5K in length and will include an awards ceremony, refreshments, and raffle prizes. Register online. WANT TO GO? $40 for all races in series; $15 individual race. 888451-4948. elitefeats.com.

Puzzlemania FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 28, 5:30-6:15pm WHERE: East Islip Public Library, 381 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Enjoy this exciting story and craft program where you test your puzzle skills and use your imaginations to create a puzzle of your very own. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-581-9200. eipl.org.

Grown Up and Me Bootcamp FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 30, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 1-4 WHAT: Get ready to work out with your little one during this interactive class. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

LongIslandParent 33

Museums & Exhibits Kid Chat: Please Go to Sleep!: Struggles and Strategies WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 10:15-11:15am WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: Adult WHAT: Join in guided conversation where mothers and other caregivers can have open dialogue and socialize with one another as their child plays in the museum’s TotSpot area. WANT TO GO? $14; $13 seniors 65 and older; free for members. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Welcome Wednesday WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 12-4pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Pay as you wish for the first Wednesday of the month. WANT TO GO? Pay as you wish. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

STEM Explorers–Surrounded by Stem WHEN: Jan. 11-12, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join the Green Teens in a weekend filled with hands-on

ASPIRE

activities and demonstrations by STEM professionals. WANT TO GO? $14; $13 seniors 65 and older; free for members. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Book Drive with The Book Fairies WHEN: Through Jan. 12: Tuesdays-Sundays, 11am-4:45pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: See the exhibition Picture This! The Art of Children’s Books and donate a new or gently used book. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 seniors 62 and older; $5 children ages 4-12 and students with valid photo ID; free for members and children younger than 4. 516-484-9337. nassaumuseum.org.

Family Program: Historic House Tours FREE WHEN: Jan. 5-19, Jan. 5 and Jan. 19, 1-2pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, 3525 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale AGES: All WHAT: Step back in time as you tour the Main House of the South Side Sportsmen’s Club. WANT TO GO? $4. 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

Dream it.

Discover. Learn. Grow. If you can dream it, you can do it. All children deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Our vision is to help every child reach their full potential. From preschool, after school, and swim lessons to day camp, sports, performing arts, and more, we offer quality programs for kids, teens, and families. At the Y, you can reach for the stars.

The Y. For Youth Development. YMCA OF LONG ISLAND Bay Shore Glen Cove East Hampton Holtsville

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Huntington Patchogue

855-2YMCALI YMCALI.org

Child Day Care Center

POW (HER) FUL SUMMIT

Early Intervention | Birth-3yrs Preschool Special Eduation | 3-5 yrs Integrated Nursery School Classes

Evaluations Birth-6yrs • Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy • Service Coordination & Family Support Services • Developmentally Appropriate & Safe Playground • Full Time Nurse

INSPIRING ALL GIRLS TO BE STRONG, SMART AND BOLD

Alternatives for Children is approved/licensed by the NYS DOH, NYSED, NYS OCFS, Nassau Suffolf County Divisions of Services for Children with Special Needs. To refer a child suspected of a developmental delay, call Suffolk or Nassau County DOH for children 0-3 yrs; or the child’s school district for children 3-5 yrs. Services for eligible children are provided at home, in the community, at daycare or at one of our locations as determined ACTIVITIES MOREcost by the child’s EVENTS IEP or IFSP, at no out-of-pocket to families. If services are delivered in a childcare/community setting that requires a fee, the family is responsible for any associated child care alternativesforchildren.org costs. Funding for these programs is through NYSED, NYS DOH, and Suffolk/Nassau DOH.

Alternatives For Children

Leadership Conference on Jan 11th, 2020

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Ready or Not, Here I Come (College • Career Readiness)

Supporting Her Future (College • Career Readiness)

Cash Rules Everything Around Me (Financial Literacy)

The Importance of Personal Insurance (Financial Literacy)

Don’t Stop Me Now (Leadership Skills)

How to Raise a Smart Bold Girl (Leadership Skills)

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Get advance notice on activities, Health Summit | Saturday, March 7 , 2020 participateSpring in group discussions Empowerment Conference Saturday, April 25 , 2020 and receive special notices. th

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Building Blocks is an Early Intervention and Preschool Program dedicated to educational excellence and committed to meeting the developmental needs of all young children. Services are provided at home, in the community, at daycare, or at our center as determined by the child’s IEP or IFSP.

NYMetroParents

El & Preschool Autism Program • SEIT Services Family Training • Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy Complete Diagnostic Services

Get advance notice on activities, Special & General Education Classes participate in group discussions El Special Instruction • Parent Child Groups and receive special notices. Toddler Separation Groups

Building Blocks is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency and has been providing services to children from birth to age 5 years and their families for more than 30 years. To refer a child suspected of developmental delay please call Suffolk County DOH EIP at 631-853-3100 for children 0-3yrs; or the child’s school district for children 3-5 years of age. All authorized services provided to eligible children are funded through NYS & Suffolk County at no cost to families. BBDPS is an approved provider and evaluator of Early Intervention & Preschool special education services and is regulated by NYSED and NYSDOH.

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• Children’s Dance from age two • Ballet Based Curriculum • Creative and Fun • Teens and Adults • Tap, Jazz and • Contemporary Modern

Join Us For Fun and An Excellent Education in Dance

Posey school • 57 Main st, northPort • 631.757.2700 • www.Poseyschool.coM

LongIslandParent 35 ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

Melissa Wickes

outing

T. rex: The Ultimate Predator, a special exhibit on view through Aug. 9, introduces visitors to the entire tyrannosaur family with life-size models, fossils, interactive elements for all ages, and more.

Best-Kept Secrets: American Museum of Natural History Visiting this institution can be daunting without a plan. Read on for the strategies that will make your trip extra-special. By Nico Vercelletto

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

he American Museum of Natural History (amnh.org), located at Central Park West and 79th Street on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is one of the most well-known and beloved museums in New York City. Containing dozens of permanent and special exhibits and theater shows, it is one of the few museums that both kids and parents can (really) equally enjoy. The experiences you can choose from feel like a microcosm of the life itself, from space to dinosaurs to Lucy, the most complete early hominid skeleton, to the artifacts of Asian and European civilizations.

Standby Kid Faves Decide which exhibits you want to see before you leave home so you and your kids can have the best experience possible. Luckily, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not so hard: The museum is home to stellar must-sees for kids. The dinosaurs are the runaway fan favorites, with children staring wide-eyed at the lifesized reassembled skeletons of prehistoric animals. The dino floor also houses extinct denizens of a later era, such as the wooly mammoth and saber tooth tiger. Even grander in scale is the famous blue whale that is suspended on the ceiling in The Millstein Family Hall of Ocean Life on the first floor. Not only is this a fascinating area to learn about the wonders of our ocean, but it is also a great place to stop and rest.

Secrets to Discover with Your Kids Besides those universal favorites, there are plenty of little-known gems that even repeat visitors may inadvertently pass by. The Discovery Room on the first floor is one of those special exhibits. Inside, all of the draws the museum is best known for are presented in a way that even the youngest children can understand. In this hands-on mini museum, kids dig for dinosaur bones, search for exotic animals in the big baobab tree, or simply sit down and read a children’s book that delves into the subject of an exhibit. There are also live animals and a large cabinet stuffed with items that kids tend to love, such as shells, feathers, bones, and unique rocks worthy of inspection. While not as hands-on as The Discovery Room, the Warburg Hall of NY State Environment on the first floor is still a fascinating and engaging (and oft-overlooked) section. The hall shows cool dioramas of NY farms and orchards complete with tractors, trees, people, and animals. It even showcases a crosssection view for an inside look at the maze-like tunnels of moles and other below-ground dwellers. One section has a blown-up simulation of insects, showing a dog-sized millipede, spider, and other bugs. While not for arachnophobes, it’s a pretty safe bet the kids will go crazy (in a good way). Traveling (way) up in scale from ants, a monumental bronze globe greets you as you enter the Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth on the first floor adjacent to the Rose Center for Earth and Space. Kids can have fun turning the metal earth, exploring the high mountain ranges, vast oceans, or any other feature your child may be curious about. Then look up! Right above you, an

8-foot wide “Dynamic Earth” projects a perspective of earth from space; watch it make a full rotation in 12 minutes.

Know Before You Go Before your kid can be amazed, you need to be in the know. First, download Explorer - AMNH NYC from the Apple App Store. It’s a life-saver, especially if you’re the type who is easily disoriented. The 3-D map shows where everything is, down to each bathroom with changing tables. If you don’t have an iPhone, you can use Google Maps on your Android device, which has its own map of the museum. The $2 fee for the coat check is worth it if you’re traveling with heavier jackets, strollers, or shopping bags from your previous stop. You can bring your stroller throughout the museum, but be aware you’ll encounter many staircases (as well as painfully slow, sometimes crowded elevators). Except where signs say otherwise, photography is allowed, flash included, but tripods and lights are not. Outside food is not allowed to be brought in, so you’ll need to plan. Hyper is one thing; hyper and hungry is a completely different beast! A large food court is on the lower level; several cafés are found on different floors of the museum. A family-sized table at any of the eateries may be tough to snag during peak hours, so plan to nosh around 11am or after 2pm. Now based in Lansing, MI, Niko Vercelletto is a New York native who has been writing since the days at his high school newspaper. His work can be found in popular publications such as Popular Mechanics, realtor.com, NYMetroParents, and CityGuideNY.

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social media

What’s the Big Deal About TikTok? A primer for parents whose kids are captivated By Melissa Wickes

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

ikTok has been downloaded more than 1 billion times in 2 years. Its short videos are mesmerizing kids, teens, and even adults all over the world. In fact, TikTok is one of the fastest-growing and most popular apps in the world, according to Business Insider. But like any exploding craze, there are questions, hiccups, and concerns—especially among parents. We spoke with social media experts and the parents of kids swiping through every day to understand why the app is consuming a generation.

What is TikTok? TikTok is a short-form video-sharing app similar to (the nowdefunct) Vine, with videos ranging from 5 seconds to 1 minute, according to Rafael Sales, data strategist at Sparkloft Media, a social media creative agency. Users scrolling through can find comedy, music, dance, and drama. Martin Stoll, CEO of Sparkloft Media and father of a 12-year-old and 10-year-old, explains that because TikTok is a very visual platform, it is perfectly suited to a younger audience. Think about it: What is more entertaining to a 10-year-old than 30-second videos you can react to with a sticker? Brands are even using it as a marketing tool: For example, Nike in Milan worked with athletes and TikTok influencers to create three challenges encouraging girls to show off their sports skills. The challenges garnered more than 100 million views and 540,000 likes—and inspired 46,000 usergenerated routines in response.

Why is it so popular? One very obvious reason the app has become a worldwide sensation is, simply, because it’s entertaining. The short videos will make you laugh, sing, and mimic the creativity of others. As a result, its content is spreading like wildfire. TikTok has also gained followers for its ability to hook into its users’ preferences using an algorithm: If you like “challenges” where people mimic choreography to a Mariah Carey song, for example, the app will continue to feed you similar videos. “TikTok will quickly adapt to your taste to offer the most relevant, interesting, fun, quirky, head-turning videos that you’ll never want to stop watching,” according to the company. The strength of this algorithm has its pros and cons. On the one hand, once the app gets to know your 13-year-old daughter, she will likely be consuming content that is suited for her (rather than, say, sexually explicit dance moves and cursing that is not). On the other hand, if your son is participating in a viral challenge and his account is public, his video may be seen by millions of people whom TikTok has also targeted as interested in that content.

School Districts Consult Attorneys. Why Shouldn’t You?

School Districts ask their attorneys what is the minimum amount of services the law requires them to provide to special education students. Why shouldn’t you ask your attorney what are the maximum amount of services the law requires the School District to provide? Going for your child’s first Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and don’t know what to expect? I can give you the answers to those questions and many more. As your attorney, I solve problems.

Controversy and Concerns Any product that takes off this quickly doesn’t do so without a hitch. So far there has been controversy due to TikTok’s Chinese roots and the rumor that it is being used as a “giant data vacuum” by China, according to Stoll. The company was also accused of censoring political content. Individuals have claimed their accounts were suspended for posting videos related to the Hong Kong protests and Chinese detention camps, according to The Washington Post. U.S. senators are investigating these allegations and TikTok has made official statements regarding the concern, claiming it’s committed to earning the trust of its users and happy to participate in any investigations.

Should your teens TikTok? Luckily for parents, there are privacy and safety settings, as well as Screen Time Management and Restricted Mode options, according to Sierra Filucci, editorial director of Common Sense Media and mother of a 15-year-old. Parents can set these using a passcode. TikTok also requires users to be at least 13 years old and receive a guardian’s approval if they are younger than 18. Filucci, however, thinks parents should get to know the app before allowing access. “If parents are more hands-on, monitoring what kids are doing, have checked out the app, and feel comfortable with the content they see, then they can make the determination of whether or not their kid is ready for it,” she says. “I’m comfortable with my 15-year-old using TikTok because we talk about it a lot, I have a lot of visibility, and cursing isn’t a problem for me. It may be for other parents.” Like with any social media, parents should have a conversation about TikTok and the responsibilities involved with posting on the internet, Stoll suggests. If safety boundaries are set, you familiarize yourself with the app, and you direct the conversation toward opinion rather than judgment, the app can open the door to laughter, bonding with your kids, and even creativity. “Sometimes [my 15-year-old daughter and I] just lay on the bed and scroll through,” Filucci says. “I think it shows her I’m not dismissive of this thing she loves and that I can laugh along with her to the funny things.”

Brad H. Rosken,

Counselor at Law

534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville, New York 11747 (631) 379-9569 • Brad@specialedcounselor.com www.specialedcounselor.com

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kid’s life

Is Your Child Being Cyberbullied? Learn how to read the signs, and how to help By Emma Steven

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

ow that our kids are interacting on the Internet more than ever, the age-old act of bullying has gone from the playground to online. According to the Cyber Bullying Research Center, 36.5 percent of children aged 12-17 years old say they have been cyberbullied. While there are now apps like mSpy that allow parents to monitor their child’s communication online, it’s difficult to predict or prevent a child from being a target.

Know the Warning Signs There are, however, some important things to look for so you can stay alert and offer support. Stopping or starting social media accounts: If you notice your child is suddenly using her phone (or other devices) more or less than usual, take note—especially if she is wary to discuss it. Another important red flag is if she shuts down existing social media accounts and/or open new ones. “If you see that your kid is not interested in their phone, that’s a big sign,” says Ross Ellis, founder and CEO of STOMP Out Bullying, the leading bullying prevention nonprofit. Emotional texting: Does he get upset or angry when a text or email comes in? Does he laugh hysterically at something but won’t explain why? It’s important to pay attention to unusual emotional reactions to online communication—it could mean your child is feeling uncomfortable with something that’s developing.

Mood swings: Kids who are being cyberbullied often become withdrawn and depressed, and lose interest in activities, Ellis says. She can also become angry or anxious or complain of feeling ill more often. Take any change in mood seriously.

Meet the

Behavioral changes: Ellis also recommends looking out for a decline in grades, or changes in eating and sleeping habits. Your child may also change his route home from school or start refusing to go to school all together.

Professional

Secrecy: Tweens and teens are notoriously private but it’s wise to start investigating if your child starts to seem much more concerned about hiding her screen. Avoiding friends: If your child suddenly wants to avoid certain social situations, like hanging out with a specific group of friends, or doing a certain activity, he may be being bullied, Ellis says.

How You Can Help If you think your child might be a victim, it’s important to offer her support—but approach it delicately. Ellis recommends talking in general terms rather than asking directly. For example: “I’m reading a lot about cyberbullying and bullying and it’s really happening a lot. Does it happen at your school? Do you know anyone it’s happening to?” Even if she doesn’t Saving on open up, it’s important FOR to reinforce that you are money there for her, LOOKING you love her, and will do your best to help. a New York City If you find out he is being cyberbullied, stopbullying. family day is easy! gov recommends keeping a record and screenshots, then reporting directly to the social media platform as well as your child’s school. If your child is receiving threats of violence or worse, or if a crime or illegal behavior is happening, report it to the police. Finally, make sure your child knowsCityguideny.com the rules of thehas cyber road. “A parent has to be computer savvy,” “Youfor couponsEllis andsays. discounts have to communicate with your kids NYC constantly. It’s not a onesightseeing attractions, restaurants, storesdigital and more. time conversation. Parents need to raise responsible citizens because if they don’t, there’s Great a possibility their kids are New York deals, going to bully someone, or they will be bullied.” savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you For more help and support, visit stompoutbullying.org andand your family—are yours with staysafeonline.org. just a click of the mouse.

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Health Care Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success Suffolk: 631-689-6858 • Nassau: 516-216-1791 Queens: 718-640-6767 • lispeechandmyo.com Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, owns and operates Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. With her group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders (adults and children). Intensive feeding therapy for individuals who suffer from texture and consistency aversions, and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) are also offered. Seven affiliated offices across Long Island participate with most health insurance and offer evening and Saturday hours.

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry 775 Park Ave, Suite 340, Huntington 516-317-2476 toothpillowny.com The Tooth Pillow Dentistry is a group of board-certified pediatric dentists and dentist anesthesiologists who work together to safely provide dental treatment while your child “sleeps.” We provide this service for children who cannot be treated in the typical dental chair setting due to age, behavior, or other factors that hinder treatment. Your child will leave our office with all of their dental work completed, free from pain and bad memories. We will treat your child as if they were our own. Trust your child with the experts in pediatric dental sedation.

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool 29 Pinewood Drive, Commack 631-499-1237 bbdps.com Donna M. Charbonneau is the executive director of Building Blocks Developmental Preschool. BBDPS offers a range of programs and services to children from infancy through age 5. Currently staffed with more than 100 teachers, therapists, and paraprofessionals, including registered nurses as well as psychologists, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists, a physical therapist, and a developmental pediatrician. Early Intervention services are provided for children under the age of 3, who have developmental delays. Building Blocks Developmental Preschool continues to ensure delivery of the highest quality educational services to all students. LongIslandParent 41

PARTY

C e n tr a l

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

Party Entertainment Dynamic Beat Productions

Long Island, New York, and the Tristate area 631-399-6942 dynamicbeat.com dynamicbeat@optonline.net Your special event needs just the right mix of creativity, energy, and professionalism to get the celebration started. Dynamic Beat Entertainment has been making events memorable for 20 years. Our services include DJ, lighting, photo booths, lounge decor, and video production.

Erik’s Reptile Edventure

P.O. Box 612, Middle Island 631-335-9308 edventureshow.com edventures1@yahoo.com Have a World of Reptiles Party featuring 12 animals from all around the world! Wildlife education and fun with live reptiles and museum animals. We are ready to make your party an unforgettable event!

Party Places BounceU Farmingdale

101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com BounceU Farmingdale was voted “Best of Long Island” for Children’s Party Place and Family Amusement Center. We provide the ideal combination of inflatable structures, a clean environment, incredible customer service, and non-stop excitement in a private party atmosphere.

Celebrations In The Kitchen

63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen.com celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com The most unique, fun-filled, joyous event! We have created a true baking experience for everyone to enjoy, including sugar cookie baking, all about pizza, cupcakes from scratch, doughnuts, chocolate and candy projects. Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfha.org steved@cshfha.org Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium! See the Hatchery & Aquarium’s exciting live exhibits. Feed the hungry trout and learn about fish, reptiles, and amphibians with an up-close animal encounter.

Gold Medal Gymnastics Centers

Suffolk: 266 East Pulaski Road, Greenlawn 631-427-8275 huntington@gmgc.com 1752 Middle Country Road, Centereach 631-981-4653 centereach@gmgc.com 683 Route 25A, Rocky Point 631-821-2100 rockypoint@gmgc.com 253 W. Main St., Smithtown 631-366-4653 smithtown@gmgc.com gmgc.com Long Island’s leading gymnastics center, “Where Every Child is a Champion” since 1973. Island-wide with six locations and fully certified instructors. We offer action-packed birthday parties!

Gravity Vault Melville Indoor Rock Gym

40 Melville Park Road 516-777-9255 gravityvault.com/locations/ melville-ny melville@gravityvault.com Climbing is a great way to celebrate your birthday! Our awesome climbing parties give kids an exciting day they will never forget! Offering different party package options to accommodate your needs.

Great Strides Long Island

41 Coram-Swezeytown Road, Middle Island 631-786-9708 greatstridesli.org julie@greatstridesli.org Lasso some birthday fun at Great Strides Long Island. We offer a relaxed picnic atmosphere (indoor facility is available), farm animals, and a horse ride-all for a reasonable price. Email julie@greatstridesli.org for more information.

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Pier 86, W. 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Manhattan 646-381-5010 intrepidmuseum.org groupsales@intrepidmuseum.org Celebrate your child’s birthday with a one-of-a-kind party! The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will captivate groups of all ages and interests. Choose from exciting themes, value packages, and customization options to create a birthday adventure they’ll remember forever!

Karts Indoor Raceway

701 Union Parkway, Ronkonkoma 631-737-5278 karts1.com info@karts1.com Karts offers a variety of options for kids and adults starting at age 4 (40 inches tall). Whether it be racing, laser tag, or one of our other great activities, our unforgettable parties are loved by both kids and parents.

Key to My Art, Inc.

10 W. Oak St., Amityville 131 Main St., East Rockaway 877-539-2278 keytomyart.com At Key to My Art, our children’s paint parties include all supplies from aprons to easels. The guest of honor picks the theme, we provide the instruction, and each guest leaves with a finished painting!

Long Island Aquarium

431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH20 (426) 631-208-9200 x125 longislandaquarium.com Have your child’s birthday party at the Long Island Aquarium. Party options include a choice of private rooms, select food items, and an ice cream cake. All parties get a guided tour, special seating at the Sea Lion Show, and rides on the submarine simulator!

Long Island Ducks

Bethpage Ballpark 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip 631-940-DUCK (3825) liducks.com Imagine the excitement when your child stands on the dugout with QuackerJack while the crowd sings Happy Birthday! Their name will be displayed on the scoreboard and announced. Package includes box seats and meal. Guests will have fun in the kids zone inflatable area.

Long Island Explorium

101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson 631- 331-3277 longislandexplorium.org Celebrate your birthday at the LI Explorium. Enjoy 90 minutes to two hours of

exciting, interactive activities. Select a theme from our four well-loved STEM challenges and give your friends the most memorable birthday party ever. Packages available. Call to reserve your best party today!

Long Island Nets

NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale longisland.gleague.nba.com Long Island Nets birthday party packages are a great way to celebrate your next birthday. Receive exclusive gear and birthday shout outs.

Main St. Board Game Cafe - Unplug Your Game 307 Main St., Huntington 631-729-0060 mainstboardgamecafe.com/ reservation info@mainstboardgamecafe.com Unplug your game! Main St. Board Game Cafe hosts parties for kids, tweens, and teens. Supervised by our staff of board game experts, our parties are a fun yet enriching experience for your next birthday or event.

Monster Mini Golf

410-C Commack Road, Deer Park 631-940-8900 monsterminigolf.com/locations/ deer-park All birthday packages include 90 minutes in a haunted mansion-themed private party room and a dedicated party host. Guests will play a round of golf under black lights with monster-themed decor featuring fun-loving, animated monsters.

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center

1320 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook 631-751-KIDS (5437) mygym.com/stonybrook 128 W. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station 631-427-GYMS (4967) mygym.com/huntingtonstation

Great South Bay Shopping Center

985 W. Montauk Highway, West Babylon 631-314-GYMS (4967) mygym.com/babylon At My Gym the goal is to make your party an amazing, customized celebration. You will have exclusive use of the entire gym with a rock wall, trampoline, trapeze, climbing structures, and slides.

Not Just Art

183 South St., Oyster Bay 516-922-8300 notjustart.com create@notjustart.com Not Just Art has oodles of excellent

music, art, and science parties for ages 1-12 and beyond. Choose from our treasury of super imaginative projects or use favorite themes and activities as a creative springboard.

Saf-T-Swim School

3500 Veterans Memorial Highway, Bohemia 631-580-2825 6136 Jericho Turnpike, Commack 631-462-9696 Located inside New York Sports Club 1850 NY-112, Coram 631-736-6604 1015 Grand Boulevard, Deer Park 631-254-4025 515 Broadhollow Road, Melville 631-940-7160 150-154 Kroemer Ave., Riverhead 631-727-5458 7 Browns Road, Nesconset 631-406-7316 saf-t-swim.com Saf-T-Swim pool parties are never rained out! Our year-round parties include 24 guests, a private party room, pool time, lifeguard, invitations, and pizza.

Studio E Art Classes

ical party options! “The Bash” Starting at only $290 and “The Extravaganza” starting at only $420! View details at studioeartclass.com/parties.

Thomas School of Horsemanship Riding Academy

250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840 tshcamp.com tsh@tshcamp.com Birthday parties, scout parties, and class trips are always a blast at the Thomas School of Horsemanship. For groups of 14-18 children. They receive one hour of riding time.

Urban Air Lake Grove

3147 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove 631-861-4125 urbanairtrampolinepark.com/locations/new-york/lake-grove Escape the same old birthday formulas with a unique experience that allows you run, jump, and soar! Test your skills in the Warrior Obstacle Course and zigzag 30 feet in the air on our Sky Rider Indoor Coaster.

77 Broadway, Rocky Point 631-744-4001 studioeartclass.com/parties Studio E Art Classes offers two econom-

openHOUSES Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island

Holy Angels Regional School

Diocese of Rockville Centre Multiple Locations 516-280-2479 licatholicelementaryschools.org Come see how a safe and loving early childhood Catholic education will inspire your children, at an open house near you. Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 26-Feb. 1.

Hofstra Summer Camps

101 Oak St., Uniondale 516-463-CAMP (2267) hofstra.edu/academics/ce/summer-camp ce-camps@hofstra.edu Join us for our Summer Camps Open House on Feb. 2 from 12-2pm at the Hofstra Physical Education Building, North Campus. Discover more than 75 programs for kids kindergarten-12th! Register at hofstra.edu/camp or 516463-CAMP.

1 Division St, Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org mconnell@holyangelsregional.org Come visit our school and give your children the advantage that lasts a lifetime. Call anytime for a tour.

Our Lady of Providence Regional School

82 Carleton Ave., Central Islip 631-234-6324 olprov.org Come tour our school, on Jan. 26. Meet our students, faculty, and parents. See all we have to offer!

Our Lady of Wisdom Regional School

114-116 Myrtle Ave., Port Jefferson 631-473-1211 Join us for an open house on Sunday, Jan. 26 from 12- 2pm, Thursday, Jan. 30 from 6:30-8pm, and Saturday, Feb. 1 from 4:30-8pm. Pre-registration is encouraged.

MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . .

a SUPER SPACECRAFT!

GATHER THESE MATERIALS:

Pencil

2 toilet paper tubes

Paper towel tube

2. Draw a rounded 1. Lay a toilet

paper tube on top of a piece of cardboard. Trace it.

nose to the traced shape. Then draw two rounded triangles for wings.

Small piece of cardboard

Markers or paint

3. Cut out the shape.

Scissors

(with an adult�s help)

Paper

Glue

5. Glue your cut tube on top of the cardboard in the shape of a spacecraft, and let it dry.

4. Trace the bottom of a toilet paper tube on top of another. Then cut out the round shape.

6. Color or paint your spacecraft. You

can also decorate it with stickers. Place a small toy inside and go for a ride. Tell a story about where you’re going!

TinkerActive Workbooks cover essential skills using curriculum-based exercises and interactive tinkering, making, and engineering activities using common household materials!

The Active Way to learn through play

Odd Dot

An imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD

LongIslandParent 43

Professional Services DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS Horizon Orthodontics

Dr. Larry Friedman 1150 Portion Road No. 13, Holtsville 631-698-2424 Find us on Facebook: @horizonorthodontics Our practice’s top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as invisible ceramic braces and Invisalign®, along with the latest in computer technology.

Island Orthodontics

1990 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park 516-365-5300 islandortho.com Our practice’s top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, along with the latest in computer technology.

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry

775 Park Ave, suite 340, Huntington 516-317-2476 toothpillowny.com Your child will leave our office with all of their dental work completed, free from pain and bad memories. Trust your child with the experts in pediatric dental sedation.

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy

Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success Suffolk: 631-689-6858 • Nassau: 516-216-1791 Queens: 718-640-6767 lispeechandmyo.com Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, along with her group of therapists, supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders.

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE Bankers Life - Kimberly Williams-Regnier

Serving NYC Metro Area, Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and Westchester 347-0247-7293 bankerslife.com kimberly-williams.regnier@bankerslife.com Our goal is simple, to offer solutions that meet your needs today and for the life of your retirement. Our agents begin by asking you a few questions. Knowing what’s most important to you, we can provide solutions.

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

LEGAL SERVICES Andrew Cohen, Esq., Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen

250 West 57th St., suite 1216, Manhattan 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen provide personalized, high quality special needs estate planning and special education legal services at a reasonable cost. It also conducts free workshops on several topics for agencies, schools, and parent groups.

Fersch LLC

11 Broadway, suite 550 Serving all of NYC and surrounding areas 212-422-2660 pffamilylaw.com familylaw@pffamilylaw.com Fersch LLC practices exclusively in matrimonial and family law. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and determined advocates for our clients. We provide care and attention to clients and their families of all income levels.

Law Offices of Brad H. Rosken, PLLC

534 Broadhollow Road, suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He is also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child is entitled to under law.

Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP

3000 Marcus Ave., suite 1E9, Lake Success 516-437-4385 570 Lexington Ave., suite 1600, Manhattan 212-759-3500 255 Monmouth Road, 2nd floor, Oakhurst, NJ 732-531-8900 vmmlegal.com For 50 years, the law firm of Vishnick McGovern Milizio has helped private and business clients ensure their well-being, plan for their future, and protect their interests.

LICE Fairy LiceMothers

2463 South Long Beach Road, Oceanside 866-561-0492 1755 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park 866-561-0492 679 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head 866-561-0492 fairylicemothers.com fairylicemothers@gmail.com Our treatment centers are kid-friendly and our products are 100 percent non-toxic. Treatments include two free re-checks. Whether or not you use our service, we are here to help you.

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Lice Clinics of America - Long Island

47 Jackson Ave., Syosset 516-336-4099 566 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre 401 Hawkins Avenue, Ronkonkoma liceclinicslongisland.com Lice Clinics of America will remove lice in just one hour! All lice and eggs-even Super Lice are eliminated in a single, one-hour treatment. Affordable treatments, no toxic chemicals.

SPECIAL NEEDS Alternatives For Children

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 South Service Road, Dix Hills 631-271-0777 14 Research Way, East Setauket 631-331-6400 168 Hill St., Southampton 631-283-3272 alternatives4children.org Licensed daycare, EI/Preschool Special Education evaluations provider for eligible children. Early childhood professionals create a natural learning environment, promoting a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Child Behavior Consulting, LLC

10 Janet Court, Nesconset 631-617-1958 childbehaviorconsulting.com lisa@childbehaviorconsulting.com Providing education, tools, and knowledge in teaching children cognitive skills to focus and remain calm. Specializing in challenges related to behavior, academic learning, and social-emotional development.

Andrew Cohen, Esq., Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen

Law Offices of Brad H. Rosken, PLLC

Life’s WORC The Family Center for Autism

1501 Franklin Ave., Garden City 516-741-9000 familycenterforautism.org; mreno@lifesworc.org The Family Center for Autism provides services and support for people with autism and their families. Programs include: insurance services, birthday parties, art, music, sports and culinary classes, camps, parent and sibling programs, social events, vocational programs, and behavior intervention.

Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy

toothpillowny.com Your child will leave our office with all of their dental work completed, free from pain and bad memories. Trust your child with the experts in pediatric dental sedation.

TUTORS & TEST PREP Long Island Tutorial Services

173 N. Main St., Sayville 631-316-0426 litutorialservices.com; litutorialservices@gmail .com Long Island Tutorial Services (LITS) provides award-winning customer service and first-rate instruction to families island-wide. Call for a confidential consultation.

St. Patrick Youth Community: St. Patrick Tutoring Center

St. Patrick Church, 280 E Main St., Smithtown 631-724-1261 stpatsyouth.com; spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick Tutoring Center is here to assist your learner from grades kindergarten-12th with Catholic Entrance Exam Prep, SAT, Regents, or daily schoolwork.

stpatsyouth.com; spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick Youth Enrichment and Learning Center provides programs for your child ages 1½ years–sixth grade. A faith-based program offers a loving, caring environment.

Sylvan Learning Center of Huntington

1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-424-5600 locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/huntington-ny sylvanlearning@optonline.net Sylvan of Huntington offers personalized tutoring programs in reading, writing, mathematics, SAT and ACT prep. Sylvan will help identify the right program for your child and exactly where your child needs to start to get the best results.

Village East Gifted - Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

St. Patrick Church, 280 E Main St., Smithtown 631-724-1261

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com; info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted provides after-school enrichment and private tutoring for gifted and talented students. We are a designated Johns Hopkins CTY and SAT testing center.

birthday / party services

developmental

religious

Studio E Art Classes.......................................... 7

Alternatives for Children ................................ 35 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool....35, 41 Fontanetta Neuropsychology PLLC.................. 12 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.... 19, 41

Diocese of RVC .......................................... 5, 48

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry

775 Park Ave, suite 340, Huntington 516-317-2476

St. Patrick Youth Community: Youth Enrichment Learning Center

index

camps Future Stars - Old Westbury ........................... 20 Girls Inc. of Long Island .................................. 35 Hofstra Summer Camps ................................... 5 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 20 Sportime ........................................................ 19 Studio E Art Classes.......................................... 7 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts ................... 2 Village East Gifted ............................................ 8 YMCA of Long Island ............................... 34, 37 Young People’s Day Camps - Suffolk ................ 3

child care / day care Alternatives for Children ................................ 35 YMCA of Long Island ............................... 34, 37

classes Girls Inc. of Long Island .................................. 35 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 20 Posey School of Dance ................................... 35 Studio E Art Classes.......................................... 7 Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington & Mineola....................................................... 12 Village East Gifted ............................................ 8 YMCA of Long Island ............................... 34, 37

education Alternatives for Children................................. 35 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool .35, 41 Diocese of RVC .......................................... 5, 48 Girls Inc of Long Island ................................... 35 Hagedorn Little Village School ....................... 27 Holy Angels Regional School............................. 8 Law Offices of Brad H Rosken......................... 39 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 20 Long Island Lutheran ...................................... 20 Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington & Mineola....................................................... 12 Village East Gifted ............................................ 8 Winston Prepatory School - Long Island ........... 7

family entertainment / events / outings Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47

health

Holy Angels Regional School............................. 8

retail Tinker Active .................................................. 43

special events Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47 Girls Inc of Long Island ................................... 35

special needs Alternatives for Children ................................ 35 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool....35, 41 Fontanetta Neuropsychology PLLC ................. 12 Hagedorn Little Village School........................ 27 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.... 19, 41 Law Offices of Brad H Rosken......................... 39 Winston Prepatory School - Long Island............ 7

sports Future Stars - Old Westbury............................ 20

theater

Fontanetta Neuropsychology PLLC ................. 12 Tooth Pillow Dentistry (The) ............................ 41

Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47

dance

performing arts / acting

Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington &

Posey School of Dance ................................... 35

Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47

Mineola.......................................................... 12

tutors

NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! LongIslandParent 45

last word

What is your New Year’s resolution for your kids?

“To make their own fun instead of curating every moment for them. When I was a kid, I remember some of the most fun times I had were just exploring the backyard or rearranging my bedroom furniture. I get so caught up in cramming every moment of the weekend with activities, I don’t give them enough time to make their own.” —Andrea Worthington (@babygotchat), Westchester County

“I wish for a greater sense of confidence for my daughter, and for a continued self-growth and self-mastery for my son. He’s got quite the temper.” —Jessica Arinella, Westchester County

“My resolutions for my son are to get him to keep his room decently clean and to teach him basic cooking skills. He’s resistant to both!” —Aimee Hartstein, Long Island

“To travel as often as possible, and to learn and grow outside the classroom. We were fortunate to take a couple of trips outside the country last year and we want to keep capitalizing on this curiosity as often as possible for 2020.” —Beth Beckman (@littlekidnyc), Manhattan

“After years of begging, we finally caved in and got a lovely puppy, Alfie. My hope for the New Year is that they get up at 6:30am and walk him. Of course, for them to be happy, healthy, and adventurous...but most importantly be kind to others and give back.” —Cynthia Barron, Brooklyn

Being content with who they are, keeping their heads up high, always being nice, and trying as hard as they can to ignore the nastiness that comes from kids around them (which often occurs when no adult is present to see or hear it).” —Stacey Gish Wallenstein (@ themintchipmama), Long Island

“Slow down in the New Year. With so many commitments and after-school schedules, I’d like for us all to stop rushing and enjoy the little moments together, have more impromptu dance parties, tea parties, movie nights—you know!” —Brianne Manz (@strollerinthecity), Manhattan

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broa dwa y co m es t o b a b y lo n!

Mar 21stApr 19th

JAN 25TH - FEB 23rd

ACTING, SINGING, DANCING & IMPROV CLASSES grades K-12 Located in the Heart of Babylon Village, The Argyle Academy of the Arts Spring Intensive offers classes in acting, singing, dancing and improv for grades K-12. Classes are taught in a supportive environment with theatre professionals.

Spring Intensive

JAN 27TH - MAY 5TH

Limited Enrollment Register Now!

Tickets: $15 Season Subscribers & Argyle Students: $12

Call our Box Office (844) 631-LIVE (5483)

jan. 16th - feb. 23rd

PARENT *Not to be combined. Discount valid off premium main stage tickets only.

Special Pricing Tickets On Sale Now!

KIDS 12 & under $35*

*must call box office for kids pricing *Good for The Little Mermaid tickets only

34 W. MAIN STREET, BABYLON, NY 11702 | 844.631.live(5483) | argyletheatre.com LongIslandParent 47

2020 LI Parent CSW Back Cover :Layout 1 12/5/19 10:32 AM Page 1

Catholic S chools Week O pen Houses, Jan 26 - Feb 1

Visit an Open House near you during Catholic Schools Week. St. Martin of Tours School Amityville • www.smtschool.org St. Christopher School Baldwin • www.stchris-school.org St. Patrick School Bay Shore • www.spsbayshore.org St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Regional School Bellmore • www.steas.com Our Lady of Providence Regional Central Islip • www.olprov.org Our Lady Queen of Apostles School Center Moriches • www.olqany.org Holy Family Regional School Commack • www.holyfamilyregional.com

S S Cyril and Methodius School Deer Park • www.sscmweb.org St. Mary School East Islip • www.saintmaryschoolei.org Trinity Regional School East Northport • www.trinityregional.org St. Raymond's School East Rockaway • www.srsny.org Our Lady of Victory School Floral Park • www.olvfp.org The De La Salle School* Freeport • www.delasalleschool.org St. Anne's School Garden City • www.stannesgcschool.org St. Joseph School Garden City • www.st-josephschool.com Holy Family School Hicksville • www.hfsli.org Our Lady of Mercy School Hicksville • www.olmshicks.org St. Patrick School Huntington • www.stpathunt.org

Long Beach Catholic Regional School Long Beach • www.lbcrs.org Our Lady Of Peace School Lynbrook • www.olpschoollynbrook.org Our Lady of Lourdes School Malverne • www.ollmalverne.org Our Lady of Grace Montessori* Manhasset • www.olgmanhasset.com St. Mary's Elementary School Manhasset • www.stmary11030.org St. Rose of Lima School Massapequa • www.stroseschool.net Notre Dame School New Hyde Park • www.ndsnet.org Holy Child Academy* Old Westbury • www.holychildacademy.org St. Dominic Elementary School Oyster Bay • www.stdomsob.org Holy Angels Regional School Patchogue • www.holyangelsregional.org Our Lady of Wisdom Regional School Port Jeﬀerson • www.olowregional.org

St. Peter of Alcantara School St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional School Port Washington • www.stpeterspw.org Westbury • www.stbolh.org St. John Paul II Regional School St. Thomas the Apostle Riverhead • www.sjp2regional.org W Hempstead • www.stthomasschool.net St. Agnes Cathedral School St. Aidan School Rockville Centre • www.stagnes-school.org Williston Park • www.staidanschool.org Sts. Philip and James School St. James • www.sspjschool.net *Private Schools Maria Regina School Seaford • www.mariareginaschool.org St. William the Abbot School Seaford • www.stwilliamtheabbot.net St. Patrick School Smithtown • www.spssmith.org Our Lady of the Hamptons Regional School Southampton • www.olhamptons.org St. Edward The Confessor School Syosset • www.stedwardconfessor.org St. Martin De Porres Marianist School* Uniondale • www.stmartinmarianist.org Holy Name of Mary School Valley Stream • www.hnomschool.org www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org