Suffolk Parent April 2019

LongIsland SUFFOLK EDITION

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM APRIL 2019

A Birthday Bashfor Less Plus, party entertainment, places, and more!

SpecialParent • Planning for Your Child’s Future • Sensory-Friendly Fun • Resources for Children with Special Needs

10 Easy Tips to Go Zero Waste

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

SUMMER GROWTH SPURT Usdan is an award-winning day camp for students ages 4-18 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, April 28 or Sunday, May 19 Reservations required. Visit usdan.org/visit.

FOR $100 OFF NEW STUDENT TUITION USE PROMO CODE: SUFFOLK

WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY 1-844-789-5824 | USDAN.ORG

P r es e n t s

Long Island’s

P R I VAT E S C H O O L FA I R If you are a Long Island parent or professional and considering private school for your child or are merely curious about the landscape of private school offerings on Long Island, you do not want to miss this event. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and speak with admissions representatives from private schools, as well as set up private visits to schools of interest.

Sunday, May 5th 10:00AM -2:00 PM Adelphi University (Campbell Lounge) 1 South Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530 To learn more, contact Victoria Weitgenant at VWeitgenant@Fusionacademy.com

Pa r t i c i pat i n g S c h o o l s : Diocese of Rockville Center East Woods School Friends Academy Fusion Academy Holy Child Academy Gersh Academy Greenvale School Knox School Lawrence Woodmere Academy LI School For The Gifted LI Whole Child Academy Portledge School Stony Brook School Trinity Lutheran School Waldorf School West Hills Academy Winston Prep

...And many more!

LongIslandParent

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contents table of

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

by Land’s End (landsend.com)

april 2019

12 35

birthday parties 44 A Birthday Bash for Less

Zero Waste, Zero Fuss

Learn how to make the green movement work for your family—it’s not as hard as you think!

Family Activities Calendar

Find something fun to do with your family every day of the month!

46 Birthday Party Directory

48

special needs 18 24 28 30

Protecting Your Child’s Future Special Needs Directory Special Education Resources Special Education Resources at-a-Glance

Potty Training 101

Here’s how to make the frustrating task of getting your kids out of diapers as smooth as possible.

raising kids

things to do

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Advocating for Peri 11 Helping Teens Through Mental Health Struggles 48 Potty Training 101 51 Meet the Health Care Professional 52 Awkward Talks 54 Camps for Older Kids 56 Camps at-a-Glance Chart 58 Professional Services 60 Open Houses 61 Advertisers’ Index 62 I Will Not Fail This Child

34 Family Fun a Ride Away 35 Family Activities Calendar

family life 12 Zero Waste, Zero Fuss

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ››

12 10 Easy Tips to Go Zero Waste 44 A Birthday Bash for Less 37 Sensory-Friendly Fun 18 Planning for Your Child’s Future

facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

Filled with Fun & Excitement!

Boys & Girls, 4-14 • 2-8 Week Programs Operated by Licensed Teachers & Administrators • All Union Rates Accepted Weekly Field Trips • Red Cross Swim Program • Sports & Karate• Arts & Crafts And Much, MUCH MORE!

Visit Us! OPEN HOUSE: APRIL 13 & APRIL 27, 2019 12 PM - 2 PM

East Islip Lanes Bowling Alley

117 E Main Street • East Islip, NY 11730

For More Info, Call 516-729-0690 • ypdc.com LongIslandParent

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raising kids editor’s note APRIL 2019 • Vol.10 • No.11

A Season to Celebrate

W

e have a little spring in our step, and the change in seasons has (almost) nothing to do with it. In early March, we attended the annual Parenting Media Association conference, and NYMetroParents was honored with five awards for digital and editorial excellence—including a silver award for our Weekend Scoop newsletter! Sign up at nymetroparents.com/register if you don’t already get it!

Children always seem to have a little spring in their step when their birthdays roll around. So, to help you plan the ultimate birthday bash without breaking the bank, check out Madeleine Burry’s article on pg. 44. It’s full of ideas to earn you double-taps on Instagram without tapping into your savings.

Spring is also a time when we think of how we can help Mother Earth and do good for our environment (who else is excited to visit baby animals at the zoo?). Check out “Zero Waste, Zero Fuss” for 10 easy things you can do to limit the amount of trash your family creates (pg. 12).

April is Autism Awareness Month, and in honor of it, you’ll want to read Stella L. Spanakos’ heart-wrenching essay about how she turned a tragedy into a way to help her son and others on the spectrum (pg. 62). And in keeping with our goal to help you make better decisions for your kids, we’re bringing back Special Parent in digital editions full of advice, resources, and inspiring stories—all for parents of children with special needs. It’s launching Monday, April 8, so check it out then!

We’re also continuing to help you make better decisions for your kids when it comes to summer camp. If you haven’t already, make sure you read our 2019 Summer Camp Guide at nymetroparents.com/campguide/longisland. Whether you’ve already chosen a camp or are still looking, the Camp Guide is full of advice for working with camp staff, ensuring your child has an amazing summer, and local camp descriptions. It’s a mustread for every parent of a camper.

Wishing you a prosperous and productive spring!

Katelin Walling Editorial Director

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

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

Have You Seen the 2019 Summer Camp Guide? nymetroparents.com/campguide/longisland

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling PRODUCTION EDITOR: Melissa Wickes ASSISTANT EDITORS: Jacqueline Neber, Anja Webb CALENDARS CALENDAR COORDINATOR: Whitney C. Harris EVENT RESEARCHERS: Lisa Fogarty, Kristina Johnson, Shara Levine DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke

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Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson, Manager Lauren Alperin Meirowitz, Managing Director Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Lauren Anchin, Colleen Kearney, Merrill Sugarman Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents To Submit News: nymetroparents.com/submitnews

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

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

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ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Kristine Pulaski

FINANCE

CFO: David Friedman CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

Looking for a camp for this summer? Have you chosen a camp for your child this summer? Either way, you’ll want to read this guide!

Long Island Parent’s 2019 Camp Guide is chock full of great advice every parent of a camper should know.

Learn from experts about working well with camp staff, supporting your child, or choosing the right camp for your child. Plus, if you are shopping for a camp, check out local camps’ descriptions and open houses.

Read it now on your phone, desktop or tablet.

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

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

3 CAMPS IN 1 CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE!

Join us for the Summer of 2019.

CALL NOW FOR A TOUR! The Camp with ALL the Extras!

ALL the Traditional Day Camp Activities Programs for Children Ages 2-14 Flexible Scheduling - Choose 2,4, 6 or 8 Weeks Hot Lunch and Before & After-Care Available Transportation Across Suffolk & Nassau Counties

Specialty Camps at Park Shore

Chef Paula’s Cooking With Stars

Culinary Camp for Aspiring Chefs For Children Completing Grades 1-7 Is your child an aspiring chef or just LOVES cooking and baking?

Foodie kids can join Chef Paula at the Culinary Cottage at Park Shore for an unforgettable and spectacular summer of culinary learning and fun!

Extreme STEAM Science Kids

Serious Science Mixed with Serious Fun For Children Completing Grades 1-5 Does your child LOVE science and technology? Kids can join our one-of-a-kind educational summer program featuring robotics, mechanical and electrical engineering, coding, science, art and mathematics - all while having fun!

Cooking With Stars and ESSK are morning programs with the option for children completing grades 1-5 to extend their day and experience all of the AMAZING camp activities that Park Shore has to offer.

Dix Hills • 631.499.8580 • ParkShoreDayCamp.com LongIslandParent

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raising kids new places, new programs Courtesy Future Stars Summer Camp

Day Camp in Patchogue Adds Esports Program Who: Future Stars Summer Camp at St. Joseph’s College What’s New: An Esports program, which is scheduled to be offered July 15-19 and Aug. 12-16.

Esports is a form of competition using video games. For now, the program will train kids in the games League of Legends and Fortnite. The camp will focus on the same skills as Future Star’s other camps such as tactics, strategy, and teamwork. “[At Future Stars], one of our key components is working as a team, and Esports fosters that,” says John Mees, site director for Future Stars at St. Joseph’s College. “I think many people think of [video games] as procrastination and just wasting time, but that’s completely changed. …

Currently, one hundred colleges are offering Esports scholarships. It’s now a viable profession and a huge industry.”

Want More Info: St. Joseph’s College, 155 W. Roe Blvd., Patchogue; 631572-0232; futurestarsatsaintjosephscollege.business.site

play Minecraft raft.

manship

Two girls at Future Stars Summer Camp

Courtesy Thomas

Who: Thomas School of Horsemanship What’s New: Expansion of STEAM program, slated to begin in July.

Taught by an AP high school chemistry teacher, hands-on experiments will be completed over multiple days, enhancing each camper’s teamwork and social skills with lessons incorporating nature, equine, art, science, and math. STEAM will be available twothree days a week for junior and senior campers as well as counselors in training.

The program aims to get campers disconnected from technology and thinking about the creative ways to get things accomplished.

Want More Info: 250 Round Swamp Road, Melville; 631-692-6840; tshcamp.com

School of Horse

Horsemanship Camp in Melville Expands STEAM Program

ement, and se and stable manag re. ute riding lesson, hor sons, sports, and mo les In addition to a 45-min im sw two red pers are offe horse science, cam

Who: Knox School Summer Adventures What’s New: The Guppy program, for children who are 4 by June 1 and completely potty-trained, is slated to begin in June.

Campers will be in their own learning space, which will help prepare them for a classroom setting and eventually pre-K and kindergarten. It will feature activities such as arts and crafts, dance, swimming lessons and other aquatic excursions, and circle time. All activities are age-appropriate and aimed at fostering cognitive, socialization, language, and physical skills.

The Knox School also plans to open a disc golf course in early June.

Campers can enjoy tournaments divided by age group and friendly competitions. The course will be suited to all ages.

Want More Info: 541 Long Beach Road, St. James; 631-686-1640; knoxschool.org/summer 8

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Knox School

Day Camp in St. James Adds Program for 4-Year-Olds

The Knox School’s new Guppy Program will run in conjunction with theTadpole program, led by a NewYork State certified teacher.

P A T CHOGU E TH E A TR E

FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERIES April 14 @ 11AM & 2PM

TICKETS START AT $10

May 5 • 2pm

TICKETS START AT $15 Available Online, by Phone or at the Box Office

631-207-1313 | PatchogueTheatre.org 7 1 East Main Street, Patchogue NY 11772

2019 SEASON SPONSORS

LongIslandParent

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SpecialParent Courtesy Lori Finkelstein

raising kids voices

Advocating for Peri ››

Although the past 18 years have been full of challenges, I’ve always believed my daughter could do anything she put her mind to. By Lori Finkelstein, as told to David Paone

I

’ll start at the beginning: I was born in Queens in 1965 and moved to West Hempstead about two years later.

I met Paul while we both attended Queens College, but he repulsed me, in true romantic comedy fashion. Eventually we became best friends, but when I set him up on a blind date, I knew I had made a mistake and wanted him for myself.

We were married on Dec. 31, 1989. I had told him if we didn’t get married in 1989, we were never getting married. Beginning a marriage with an ultimatum is always a good idea.

Our first child is Katy, born in 1990. Our second is Joel, born in 1995. We weren’t planning on a third child, at least Paul wasn’t, but in 1999 I heard on the radio that if we were to conceive a child within the next few days, we would most likely have a millennial, born by Dec. 31. We got on that right away. Peri was born on our 10th anniversary.

Much of Peri’s young life has included medical emergencies and hospital stays that last for months. By the time she was 2, she had both CPR and the Heimlich maneuver performed on her twice, including by Paul.

Sometimes I have flashbacks of them cutting her dress open in the ER and pounding on her.

Many children born with nemaline rod myopathy, a form of muscular dystrophy, don’t survive past the age of 7. Peri has survived one muscle biopsy (at 9 months old), nearly 25 sets of ear tubes, more than a dozen bronchoscopies, a tracheotomy, the removal of her tonsils and adenoids, a broken femur, two broken tibiae, and eight scoliosis surgeries.

Physically and medically, Peri’s obstacles were immense. But one early piece of advice we took heed to was to “maximize her potential.” We’ve always been very positive with Peri. We haven’t said, “she’s never going to do this.” We always assume she can do it.

That approach has worked. Peri made honor roll every quarter in sixth grade. The year before, she won the excellence award for her class at graduation. More recently she was salutatorian at her graduation from Henry Viscardi School in Albertson.

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Lori Finkelstein with her daughter Peri, who was born with nemaline rod myopathy, a form of muscular dystrophy

I didn’t know it at the time, but all during my young life I was learning the skills that enabled me to care for such a child.

My sister was book smart. It was her job to study all the time and I took care of the house. I cooked and cleaned while my parents were at work. But I also learned how to call companies on the phone if I had a problem with their products. I learned what to say to get them to send me a replacement at no charge.

All of this repeated itself when I had to deal with insurance company appeals and the uncooperating public school system.

My knowing how to finagle has gotten Peri services she wouldn’t otherwise have had.

In 2013, we had the opportunity to meet David Wright of the New York Mets at Citi Field. I love David Wright; he’s a mensch.

David walked over to his locker, produced an All-Star game jersey, signed it, and gave it to Peri. I would have been happy with a sock.

This past September he actually called Peri on the phone to talk about a gift she had sent him. Then he mailed her a signed baseball bat. Gotta love David Wright. He didn’t have to do any of that.

Currently, Peri is a freshman at Adelphi University in Garden City, as a business marketing major. I attend class with her some days and a nurse we hired on other days.

It’s like I’m going to college again. At first, I paid attention to the lessons and even asked questions, which really bothered Peri. So now I sit in class, next to Peri, watching Netflix on my phone. I watched all of Orange Is the New Black and now I’m up to Mad Men. Sometimes the teachers will talk about something from 1912 and give me a nod and I’ll give them one back. The worst part, however, is while Peri is on a feeding tube and losing weight, I think I’m gaining the freshman 20.

The plan is for Peri, and probably me, to go all the way to an MBA. I’ve been helping her with her papers, but I can see her getting stronger and stronger and soon she won’t need any help.

One day Peri will rule the world.

raising kids in the know

Helping Teens through Mental Health Struggles ›› By Melissa Wickes

N

early 20 percent of teenagers have a diagnosed mental health disorder, according to Robin Seymour, LCSW, clinical director of Newport Academy, a series of evidence-based healing centers for adolescents struggling with mental health issues. She says teens often exhibit internal mental health struggles by acting out and partaking in risky behaviors. So, to help your teen through these difficulties and limit risky behaviors, Seymour shares five effective ways to navigate your child’s mental health crisis.

Make communication a priority. Many teens say their No. 1 issue with their parents is a lack of communication, according to Seymour.

Stay present in your child’s life, ask questions without being interrogative, and, most importantly, listen to what she has to say. When approaching these conversations, recognize your child may be struggling and acknowledge that her outlandish behaviors may be a result of a deeper struggle. Approach the situation with love and understanding and ask yourself, ‘why is my child doing this?’

Let your teen know he is not alone. Teens in general struggle a lot because they often feel as though they are the only one dealing with certain things, whether it’s anxiety or depression—or just the feeling of receiving a bad grade on an exam. And with the stigma of mental health disorders, your child may feel very alone in his fight. Reassure your teen that he is not alone by discussing struggles you may have had as a teenager.

Don’t overreact to the situation. Blowing small problems out of proportion will only make the situation worse. In order to help your teen through what may or may not be a mental health crisis, be patient and find your own middle ground. If you overreact, your teen will be less likely to come to you for help in any situation.

Reach out to other adults in your child’s life. While you know your child better than anyone else, it can always help to get the perspective of other adults that spend a lot of time with her. If you have a concern, ask her teachers, coaches, and any other adults she may be spending a good chunk of time with if they have noticed an abnormality in your daughter’s life.

Access professional help. Mental health is a delicate and serious topic that needs to be treated with empathy and often professional help. Seymour suggests looking into mental health treatment options that use evidence-based practices and those that are specific to helping adolescents.

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LongIslandParent 11

family life home

Zero Waste, Zero Fuss

››

Cutting the amount of landfill trash your family creates isn’t as difficult as it sounds.

Here’s how to make this green movement work for your family. By Emma Steven

Z

ero-waste living has become a lifestyle movement. There are now hundreds of books, blogs, and videos about it, and even a number of zero-waste stores opening in New York City. For a beginner, becoming a zero-waste household looks time consuming and difficult. So just how do you do it, and is it even possible for a busy, urban family?

Bea Johnson is a mother of two, blogger, author of the best-selling book Zero Waste Home, and the founder of the zero-waste lifestyle movement. Her family of four famously collects less than a glass jar’s worth of waste a year, and she travels the world talking about it. Her passion and conviction for zero waste is the driving force behind the lifestyle’s growing popularity. “To me it’s a life hack,” she sums it up. “It’s a way of saving time and money in so many different areas, so that all you regret is not having started earlier.”

But before you panic about having to throw away your trash can, it’s important to remember the world is not currently set up for us to be 100-percent zero waste. “Pretty much no one is completely zero waste,” says Celia Ristow, a zero-waste writer, organizer, founder of the blog Litterless. “You can still make

some trash and that’s perfectly fine,” she reassures. “It’s less about making zero waste and more about zero-waste principles.”

Why Go Zero Waste?

Though it may seem like a massive undertaking, there are seven big reasons to live a zero-waste lifestyle.

• It reduces your landfill. New Yorkers create an average of 12,000 tons of waste each day (not including commercial waste), and the majority of it ends up in landfill, according to the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability.

• It reduces greenhouse gases. Landfill is the third biggest source of methane gas, which is more potent than carbon dioxide and contributes significantly to climate change, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

• It reduces plastic waste, a global problem that is poisoning our oceans and waterways. By 2025 we will be dumping 16 million metric tons of plastic waste into the sea, per year, according to a 2015 study by the UC Santa Barbara’s National Center for Ecological Analysis. continued on page 14

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

››

What Makes a Great Camp Parent?

2019 CAMP GUIDE

LEARN FROM EXPERTS • 20 Lessons from Camp We Use Every Day • 10 Things Counselors Wish Parents DIDN’T Do • 8 Questions to Ask a Camp Director

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/CAMPGUIDE/LONGISLAND Available on Phone, Desktop or Tablet LongIslandParent 13

‹‹ continued from page 12

• It conserves natural resources. Creating single-use items uses precious resources (e.g. plastic forks), and those items can’t be re-used or recycled.

• Recycling isn’t enough. Although the EPA estimates that Americans recycle more than 87 million tons of waste a year, plastic is usually recycled into something that can’t be recycled, so it eventually ends up in landfill. Recycling also takes up a huge amount of resources, including shipping overseas.

• It can improve your health. It reduces your exposure to plastics and chemicals in conventional consumer products and forces you to eat fewer processed foods.

• It can save you time and money. “When you eliminate over consumption and buying disposables, then all of a sudden it’s more time and money in your life to do what’s important to you,” Johnson says. You’ll spend less time and money on cleaning, buying, repairing, and disposing of things.

Getting Started

“When people get started, they think, ‘Oh boy, this sounds so complicated. It’s so different from what we’re doing,’” Johnson says. “But it actually isn’t. We’re talking about things that your grandparents used to do, really quite simple.” She gives the example of replacing tissues with handkerchiefs. Instead of spending time and money going to the store to buy tissues and disposing of them once used, you carry a handkerchief (like Grandma) that you wash and reuse.

Johnson also wants to dispel the myth that you need to spend all of your time making zero-waste replacements for things. While some people may enjoy it, this isn’t necessary.

Instead of making your own toothpaste, breakfast cereal, or

five different types of homemade kitchen cleaner, make lowwaste swaps instead.

“If you can find the ingredients zero waste and you have the time and the curiosity then great,” Ristow says. “If not, someone probably already makes it and so you can save yourself time.” For example, if your grocery store only stocks packaged bread, you don’t need to make it yourself; look around for a local bakery and bring your own bag. Ristow’s blog has a great shopping directory (litterless.com/wheretoshop) to help you find low-waste alternatives.

“Zero waste becomes a lifestyle—not a short-term project— when you let it simplify your life, not complicate it,” Johnson says. “It’s all about finding super-simple solutions that you can see yourself sticking to for life.”

In her book, Johnson introduces five zero-waste rules: refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, and rot. Read on to discover how to implement them, as well as further tips to get you started.

Refuse what you do not need, especially single-use items. Say no to the plastic bag, coffee cup, plastic fork, freebie pen, hotel shampoo, and toy at the dentist. This simple step will drastically reduce the waste you are bringing into your home. Then you can start working on what is already there.

Reduce your belongings to make you more aware of what you are bringing into your home. Do you need three different types of moisturizer? Do you have a full closet but keep buying clothes? Do your kids play with all of their toys or could you donate some? Go slow and start with easy areas. You can then see where you need to make zero-waste swaps.

Switch to reusables. Bring a reusable coffee cup to the coffee shop, a lunch box to work, a handkerchief in your bag, and reusable bags

Showcase Your THIS SUMMER!

JULY 1-AUGUST 30, 2019

Theater • Drama • Arts • Production • Acting • Costumes Dancing • Singing • Makeup • Set Design • Rehearsals Our Performing Arts Camp provides the opportunity for beginner and experienced campers to perform in musical theater productions. Campers work with professional directors, choreographers, musical directors and technical production staff to present challenging and popular Broadway shows!

GRADES 1-3 A Year With Frog and Toad “Kids” | Sleeping Beauty “Kids” GRADES 4-7 Shrek: The Musical Jr. | Once Upon A Mattress Once On This Island Jr. GRADES 8-11 Rent | Broadway Cabaret Night | + Trip to NYC Broadway Show

NEW!

Now Available for Campers from Patchogue Family YMCA!

Great South Bay YMCA at Bay Shore Middle School 393 Brook Avenue Bay Shore, NY 11706

Y Boulton Center for the Performing Arts 37 West Main Street Bay Shore, NY 11706

631.665.4255

ER REGISTW NO YMCALI.ORG/CAMP 14

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

to the grocery store. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to do this, just use what you have at home. Make produce bags and handkerchiefs out of old sheets and use glass jars to transport your lunch or wet food like meat and cheese from the store. Need to buy something? Reuse by buying second hand items.

Go slow to avoid burn out and overwhelm. Ristow recommends replacing items one at a time, for a more sustainable change. “Start small, and start where you can make a big impact,” she says. “You don’t have to change everything at once.

You’ll feel really good when you notice your small changes making a difference, which will motivate you to keep going.”

Recycle correctly. Don’t just put it all in and hope for the best.

Approximately 77 percent of New Yorkers’ trash could be recycled, donated, or composted instead, according to the New York City Department of Sanitation. Read your borough’s recycling rules carefully to avoid contaminating your collection (causing it to end up in landfill). NYC has an excellent program in place.

With a little research you can find a home for most things, even if they can’t be left at the curb.

Rot what you can’t recycle, reuse, or refuse. The simple act of composting will reduce your trash by 34 percent and you don’t need a garden to do it. Visit grownyc.org for more information about local collection and drop-off locations.

Shop at a farmer’s market, which is a great way of reducing waste. You’ll buy more fresh produce, support local farms, and you can bring your own bags and containers. There are more than 50 farmer’s markets in NYC, visit grownyc.org or downtoearthmarkets.com to find one near you.

• Archery Tag, GameLand, Inflatables & Challenger Courses, Freestyle Specials, & STEAM activities • New features added at every location • New trips for Teens • Transportation and Lunch Plan

Focus on what’s important. “People think [zero waste] is about reducing your trash, but ultimately it actually translates into a simpler life: a life that is based on experiences instead of things and a life focused on being rather than having,” Johnson says.

“For us, that’s what makes life richer.”

The zero-waste lifestyle movement began in one woman’s kitchen in California and has grown into something with the power to influence corporations. In May 2019, eight of the biggest plastic polluting companies in the world, including Procter & Gamble and Unilever, will start trialing a new venture called LOOP, in which their products are shipped to consumers in refillable packaging that they then return. The future, we hope, is zero waste.

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

AWESOME

YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMP 2019

NEW FOR 2019!

Switch cleaning and beauty products. You don’t need five different cleaners and rolls of paper towels for a clean house. All you need is baking soda, vinegar, some soap, and old rags. In the bathroom you can switch to soap bars and refillable shampoo.

There are now many companies offering refillable, package free products such as Brooklyn’s own Package Free Shop, set up by zero-waste blogger Lauren Singer of trashisfortossers.com.

FIND YOUR

AWAIT

We offer the best of Adventure, Athletics, Aquatics, Creative Arts, Camp Traditions, Specials, and Summer Learning.

Variety of Camps for ages 3-16: Kiddie, Youth, Pre-Teen, Teen, CIT, Full and Half-Day Specialty Camps such as Performing Arts, Sports, Coding, and more.

Buy unpackaged foods. Once you get started, you’ll realize there are lots of options you aren’t using. Check out the bulk aisle of your local health food or grocery store, go to the bakery for your bread and cookies, get meats and cheeses from the deli counter, and stock up on lunch items at the salad bar. In some cases, you’ll even save money doing this. Find a bulk store near you with the Bulk Finder tool zerowastehome.com.

FROM SWIM LESSONS TO THE SWIM TEAM At the YMCA, everyone has the opportunity to surpass their potential. With swim lessons, sports, dance classes, programs for families and so much more, the possibilities are endless.

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SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

Love alone can’t protect a child with special needs If you’re caring for a disabled child, spouse, sibling or parent, the Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can assist you with the following: •

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What rights do students have?

Children do have legal rights, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is a law designed to ensure that all students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education that meets their unique needs and prepares them for the future.

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inside

SpecialParent

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18 P rotecting Your Child’s Future: Parents of children with special needs must plan for the years ahead in important ways. Here’s where to begin. pecial Needs Directory: Find 24 S resources in Suffolk County for your child with special needs 28 S pecial Education Resources: Find schools, tutors, and more for your child with special needs.

SpecialParent

Protecting Your Child’s Future

››

Parents of children with special needs must plan for the years ahead in important ways.

Here’s where to begin. By Christina Vercelletto

P

arenting is challenging no matter what. But as Nicole Johnson of Port Washington in Nassau County puts it, “parenting a severely disabled child is just very different. Our concerns are not ordinary.”

Johnson’s daughter, Josie, 7, has FOXG1 syndrome, a neurological disorder caused by a mutation in the FOXG1 gene.

“I worry about lifting her as she gets older,” Johnson continues.

“She’s 50 pounds, and it’s getting very hard.” Josie could have a life-threatening seizure at any time, so “it’s critical she is always with someone. I worry about her care,” shares Johnson, who is a co-founder of the FOXG1 Research Foundation.

Johnson’s worries about how her child will be taken care of when she’s no longer able to do it are likely familiar to many parents of children with special needs. Exactly what legal and financial steps need to be taken to ensure your child’s care and well-being down the road will be dictated by the specifics of your family’s situation and your child’s diagnosis.

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t exist, but consulting with an

attorney who specializes in estate and guardianship law to discuss your unique situation is an essential step. Seeking the guidance of a financial planner with expertise in family matters could also be necessary. Given the personal, emotional nature of the topics you’ll be discussing, it’s important you feel very much at ease with him or her. If you enlist a large firm, make sure the person you first met with and liked is actually the one who will be working with you through the conclusion of the process.

When you’ve selected your planning “team,” prepare to discuss these key points, and go to your initial meetings with a list of specific questions in hand.

Government Services

Is Social Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicaid, or any other state or federal benefit available to your child, and what are the respective qualifications to receive them? This is the first thing to look into, and ask your attorney about, says Wendy Gildin, a special education lawyer in Garden City. continued on page 20

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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LongIslandParent 19

Guardians and Trustees

‹‹ continued from page 18

Income and Asset Limitations

Is there a limit to how much money your child can have in his or her name in order to receive the maximum amount of available benefits and services? “The answer is yes for many. For example, to qualify for SSI, your child must have less than two thousand dollars in assets,” Gilden explains. And it’s about more than financial concerns. You will likely want to make sure there would be the least upset to your child’s current arrangements as possible, adds Naomi Becker Collier, Esq., of Pashman Stein in Purchase.

Losing benefits can necessitate switching caregivers and disrupt your child’s routine.

Special Needs (or Supplemental Need) Trusts

Setting up a SNT for the benefit of the child with special needs is vital, says Michelle Peretz, counsel to Rivkin Radler’s Trusts & Estates Practice Group, with offices in Manhattan and Uniondale.

“By utilizing a special needs trust, you can protect the assets from claims and creditors, while retaining the disabled child’s eligibility for government services. Then the funds are used to pay expenses,” Peretz says. “Note, though, that the money in the trust cannot be given outright to the beneficiary, but [only] be used to pay expenses on their behalf.”

Try to set up a budget for your dependent’s needs, so you can get a rough estimate of what those expenses would be. “Once you have an idea of how much money will be needed for him or her, then you can evaluate how you are going to fund that need in a trust,” Collier says.

Consider carefully who will be the people to provide support for your child, Gildin urges. “Some adults with disabilities will require a guardian who has the legal ability to make decisions for him or her, while someone [else] may need to act as a trustee to oversee the special needs trust,” Gildin says. She encourages parents to involve their child in this planning process as much as is practical.

Trustees have complete control of the finances and assets in the SNT. Parents do not need to give this control over to one relative or close friend; they can choose co-trustees instead. Peretz recommends three: “This will avoid the autonomy associated with having one trustee appointed, and the potential for deadlocks between an even number of trustees,” she explains.

Guardians, rather than controlling the financial side of your child’s life, will make decisions such as living arrangements, doctor selection, and transportation arrangements. Although it can be helpful if a trustee is also the guardian, Peretz notes, it’s quite possible that a person perfectly suited to making financial decisions isn’t necessarily the ideal caretaker. If you do decide to split up those responsibilities, make sure the respective parties’ temperaments and perspectives on such practical matters align. You may love and trust both your sister and your childhood best friend, but if the two don’t usually see eyeto-eye, it may not be wise to pair them in these important roles.

Your Will, Power of Attorney, and Health Care Proxy

Your will is where you name your child’s trustee(s) and guardian.

Once you decide on them, it is crucial to consult your attorney to continued on page 22 ››

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A durable power of attorney appoints the individuals who can act on your behalf while you are still alive. “This is a very powerful tool to ensure that your child is taken care of should you become incapacitated,” says Nadine Gordon Lee, a certified financial planner with the Colony Group Family Offices in Manhattan and Cityguideny.com has care Armonk. For much the same reason, it’s smart to have health proxies and related directives in place, shecoupons adds. and discounts for sightseeing attractions, Properly Executed Life Insurance NYC restaurants, stores and more.

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Long Long Island Island Speech Speech & & Myofunctional Myofunctional Therapy Therapy

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LongIslandParent 23

Special Needs Directory 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 can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost.

Advanced Children’s Dentistry

200 Garden City Place suite 101, Garden City 516-758-KIDS (5437) advancedchildrensdentistry.com Your child can experience a stress-free and fun dental experience! Our dedicated pediatric dental team has completed extra years of training to provide exceptional dental service and treat patients with special needs. Our pediatric dentist works closely with our on-site anesthesiologist for patients who require extra TLC during their dental treatments.

Alternatives For Children

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 S. 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, day care, classes taught by NYS special education and early childhood teachers, and certified daycare staff.

Berkshire Farm Center and Services For Youth

535 Broad Hollow Road, Suite B30, Melville 631-420-4444 berkshirefarm.org Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth helps children find safety and comfort in the homes of foster parents. If you have love and patience, plus an extra bedroom, becoming a foster parent may be for you. Become a foster parent and give the gift of family!

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 35 years, we provide special instruction, ABA, and speech, occupational, and physical therapies, plus psychological and diagnostic services.

Camp Huntington

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com dfalk@camphuntington.com Camp Huntington is a coed, residential summer

24

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

camp for children and young adults with autism, related developmental and learning disabilities, and ADD. Ability levels mild to moderate-severe.

Located in High Falls in the beautiful Catskill Mountain region, the camp provides therapeutically and instructionally designed recreation programs in summer.

Camp Loyaltown

Glen Avenue, Hunter 518-263–4242 camployaltown.org Each year, Camp Loyaltown, a program of Citizens Options Unlimited, welcomes more than 650 campers ages 4-75 to enjoy the outdoors in a safe and fun environment. Located in the Catskill Mountains, Camp Loyaltown is a summer sleepaway camp and year-round respite program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Child Behavior Consulting, L.L.C.

10 Janet Court, Nesconset 631-617-1958 childbehaviorconsulting.com lisa@childbehaviorconsulting.com Providing the tools and knowledge necessary in teaching children and adults the cognitive skills to focus and remain calm. We educate how to overcome challenges related to behavior, academic learning, and social-emotional development through specialized techniques including children’s books, music, and visuals. Together, children and adults feel and become empowered!

CTREE

P.O. Box 1148, 41 Narrow Lane E., Bridgehampton 631-779-2835 ctreeny.org info@ctreeny.org We are a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization located on the east end of Long Island in New York. Our mission is transforming lives through the therapeutic power of horses. We provide therapeutic riding lessons and equine assisted activities to children, adults, veterans, and seniors with cognitive, physical, or emotional disabilities.

The Gersh Academy

21 Sweet Hollow Road, Suite 1, Huntington 631-385-3342 gershacademy.org info@gershacademy.org Gersh Academy serves students ages 5-21 on the autism spectrum. With more than 27 years of experience in special education, Gersh Academy provides students an environment where programs and services are customized around their individual needs, allowing them to reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.

Gersh Academy at West Hills Day Camp

(for children on the Autism spectrum) 21 Sweet Hollow Road, Huntington 631-427-6700 gershsummerprogram.com; westhillsdaycamp.com/wp/programs-by-age/ gersh-academy-whdc info@westhillscamp.com Gersh Academy at West Hills Day Camp is Long Island’s premier summer day camp for children diagnosed with autism and other neurobiological disorders. Gersh Academy and West Hills Day Cam joined forces to provide the ultimate summer camp program for children on the autism spectrum.

Great Strides Long Island

41 Coram-Swezeytown Road, Middle Island 631-786-9708 greatstridesli.org; julie@greatstridesli.org Great Strides provides instructors certified with PATH International, the worldwide standard-setting organization for therapeutic horseback riding.

Instructors work with specially selected horses to give children and adults with special needs the safest and most valuable lesson possible. Horse riding develops the ability to focus and follow direction as well as self-confidence and emotional strength.

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 nonprofit 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.

Huntington Learning Centers

656 Sunrise Highway, Baldwin 516-867-4041 607 E. Main St., Bay Shore 631-968-5100 79-81 Westbury Ave., Carle Place 516-747-5600 Elwood Shopping Center 1928B Jericho Turnpike, East Northport 631-462-8900 Phillips Plaza 639 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-568-1900 1506 Northern Blvd., Manhasset 516-365-4455 South Gate Shopping Center 49-34 Merrick Road, Massapequa Park 516-799-9500 Gateway Plaza 499-5 Sunrise Highway, Patchogue 631-289-4900 443 S. Oyster Bay Road, Suite B, 2nd floor Plainview 516-681-0400 Smithtown Shopping Center 8 Miller Place, Smithtown 631-360-0422 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington is the leader in kindergarten to 12th tutoring and test prep. Our certified tutors provide individualized instruction in all areas including executive functioning, ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities. We help students prep for the SAT, ACT, and state exams. Huntington also testifies on student’s behalf and attends IEP/504 meetings.

Law Offices of Brad H. Rosken, P.L.L.C.

534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney.

He’s 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. He’ll guide you, decipher lingo, and develop effective strategies. continued on page 26 ››

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

Providing Services For Over 45 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

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Funded and Regulated by Nassau County (NCDOH) and Suffolk County (SCDOH) Departments of Health, 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 eligibility 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 25

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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: 516216-1791 Queens: 718-640-6767 lispeech.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 across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders.

Long Island Explorium

101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson 631-331-3277 longislandexplorium.org We are inclusive of all populations of learners. Our programs and curriculum are designed to be flexible and serve and support students with special needs. We provide STEM programming to children with learning disabilities. Our programs provide a high level of student engagement with interaction in a productive manner.

Long Island Whole Child Academy School for Twice Exceptional Learning

175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville 347-668-3676 liwholechild.org ericher@liwholechild.org The Long Island Whole Child Academy, a cutting-edge college preparatory school, first to 11th grades, for highly capable youth who need special needs supports, provides 1-to-1, fully individualized classes and clinical supports for ADHD, ASD, social emotional challenges, and now, a research-based dyslexia intervention in a structured, nurturing environment.

Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts

1737 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 1, Islandia 631-479-2900 mg-aba.com Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to serve people with autism spectrum disorders in our center-based programs, at school, in the home, and in the community. Our clinical providers are licensed in the state of New York or supervised by a NYS-licensed Behavior Analyst.

Pediatric Immediate Care

150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337)

1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337) 698 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn 718-389-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. Stateof-the-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly, walkins welcome, most insurance plans accepted. Complete pediatric and adolescent care, as well as baby, camp, school, and sports physicals.

T Off 4 Autism c/o Just Architecture

572 Henry St., Brooklyn 718-855-1237 toff4autism.org mjust@mjarch.com T Off 4 Autism is 100 percent volunteer driven, focused on raising awareness, and supporting a variety of organizations and charities to help individuals with autism and their families. Our goal is to fund research to find a cure and provide long-term assistance including housing accommodations.

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 that 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.

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.

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (962254) Locations: Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org camp@ymcali.org Every child should feel supported, enabled, and inspired to do their personal best. The YMCA of Long Island offers several programs for children and adults with disabilities including inclusive camp program for children, competitive soccer, and progressive swim lessons. For more information, visit ymcali.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

Transforming lives through the therapeutic power of horses

to ed activities s. equine assist ed es id ne l ov ia pr ec with sp CTREE young adults children and , 2019

House, May 17 Visit our Openation visit our website: rm ctreeny.org For more info email: info@ ctreeny.org or

located at Wölffer Estate Stable, Sagaponack

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

PEDIATRIC IMMEDIATE CARE, PLLC PLLC PEDIATRIC URGENT CARE CARE

Where Kids Come First® CERTIFIED URGENT CARE CENTER

by Urgent Care Association of America

“Over 30 Years Of Dedication To Our Patients And We Are Still Growing”

PEDIATRIC SPECIALTY CARE

Hematology • Oncology • Pediatric Psychology Kid Friendly • Walk-Ins Welcome Most Insurance Plans Accepted

OPEN 7 DAYS Including Holidays 8am – 11pm FREE FLU SHOT & ALL SHOTS

CERTIFIED CONCUSSION CENTER

COMPLETE PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT CARE • Rapid Laboratory Tests • EKG

• Minor Surgeries

• Digital X-Ray

• Allergy Injections

• Ultrasonogram

• Inhalation Therapy

• IV Hydration

• Pulmonary Function Test

• IM Medicine

• Computerized Vision Test

• Splints / Casts

• Attention Deficit Disorder • Hearing Tests • CPR Classes • Developmental Tests • IVA & IMPACT Test

• Pharmacy Service & More

We Speak Your Language: English, Polish, Russian, Spanish & Turkish

C O N V E N I E N T LO C AT I O N S : S M I T H T O W N LINDENHURST B R O O K L Y N 1077 West Jericho Tpke

150 East Sunrise Hwy

6 9 8 M a n h a t t a n A v e

631-864-PEDS 631-956-PEDS 718-389-PEDS w w w. p e d i a t r i c i m m e d i a t e c a r e . c o m LongIslandParent 27

Special Education Resources Alternatives For Children

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 S. 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, day care and classes taught by NYS special education and early childhood teachers, and certified day care staff.

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 child care. As a New York state-accredited special education program for more than 35 years, we provide special instruction, ABA, speech, occupational, and physical therapy, psychological and diagnostic services.

Child Behavior Consulting, L.L.C.

10 Janet Court, Nesconset 631-617-1958 childbehaviorconsulting.com lisa@childbehaviorconsulting.com Providing the tools and knowledge necessary in teaching children and adults the cognitive skills to focus and remain calm. We educate how to overcome challenges related to behavior, academic learning, and social-emotional development through specialized techniques including children’s books, music, and visuals. Together, children and adults feel and become empowered!

The Gersh Academy

21 Sweet Hollow Road, Suite 1, Huntington 631-385-3342 gershacademy.org info@gershacademy.org Gersh Academy serves students ages 5-21 on the autism spectrum. With more than 25 years of experience in special education, Gersh

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Academy provides students an environment where programs and services are customized around their individual needs, allowing them to reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.

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 nonprofit 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.

Huntington Learning Centers

656 Sunrise Highway, Baldwin 516-867-4041 607 E. Main St., Bay Shore 631-968-5100 79-81 Westbury Ave., Carle Place 516-747-5600 Elwood Shopping Center 1928B Jericho Turnpike, East Northport 631-462-8900 Phillips Plaza 639 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-568-1900 1506 Northern Blvd., Manhasset 516-365-4455 South Gate Shopping Center 49-34 Merrick Road, Massapequa Park 516-799-9500 Gateway Plaza 499-5 Sunrise Highway, Patchogue 631-289-4900 443 S. Oyster Bay Road, Suite B, 2nd floor Plainview 516-681-0400 Smithtown Shopping Center 8 Miller Place, Smithtown 631-360-0422 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington is the leader in kindergarten to 12th tutoring and test prep. Our certified tutors provide individualized instruction in all areas including executive functioning, ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities.

We help students prep for the SAT, ACT, and state exams. Huntington also testifies on student’s behalf and attends IEP/504 meetings.

Law Offices of Brad H. Rosken, P.L.L.C.

534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s 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. He’ll guide you, decipher lingo, and develop effective strategies.

Long Island Whole Child Academy School for Twice Exceptional Learning

175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville 347-668-3676 liwholechild.org ericher@liwholechild.org The Long Island Whole Child Academy, a cutting-edge college preparatory school serving first to 11th grades grades first11th, for highly capable youth who need special needs supports, provides 1-to-1, fully individualized classes and clinical supports for ADHD, ASD, social emotional challenges, and now, a research-based Dyslexia intervention in a structured, nurturing environment.

Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts

1737 Veterans Memorial Highway suite 1, Islandia 631-479-2900 mg-aba.com Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to serve people with autism spectrum disorders in our center-based programs, at school, in the home, and in the community.

Our clinical providers are licensed in the state of New York or supervised by a NYS-licensed Behavior Analyst.

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.

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry, specializes in dental services for children who cannot be treated in the typical dental chair setting due to age, behavior, or other factors that hinder treatment. .

Our patient’s comfort is our top priority. We go above and beyond to ensure your experience with us is exceptional.

Our team of doctors only treat patients under anesthesia, making us an outstanding option for your child’s dental needs.

Board certified pediatric dentists and dentist anesthesiologists.

Comprehensive dental treatment is completed in one visit.

Treatment plans tailored to fit your child’s dental needs.

Most insurance plans accepted.

Contact us to schedule a consultation for your child!

5 1 6 - 3 1 7 - 2 4 7 6 • w w w. t o o t h p i l l o w n y. c o m 275 Park Avenue, Suite 340, Huntington NY Dr. Abra DiLisio Dr. Jessica Levy

Dr. Ester Levine Pincus Dr. Raquel Rozdolski

Sedation Based Pediatric Dental Specialists LongIslandParent 29

The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children littlevillage.org Huntington Learning Centers huntingtonhelps.com Law Offices of Brad H. Rosken, P.L.L.C. specialedcounselor.com Long Island Whole Child Academy School for Twice Exceptional Learning liwholechild.org

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Learning Disabilities

Emotional & Behavioral Disorders

The Gersh Academy gershacademy.org

Down syndrome

Child Behavior Consulting, L.L.C. childbehaviorconsulting.com

Developmental Disoders

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool bbdps.com

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Alternatives For Children alternatives4children.org

ADD & ADHD

DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTED

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Special Education Resources at a Glance

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SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

Is your your child child struggling strugglingininschool? school?WeWecan canhelp. help.

NY New York

West 17th Street 126126 West 17th Street New York, NYNY 10011 New York, 10011 646-638-2705 646-638-2705 @WPSNY @WPSNY

NOW ON NOW ON LI New Jersey Connecticut Transitions Program Long Island LONG ISLAND LONG 30 Deforest or ethnic origin.

The WPSLI 57 West Rocks Road 901 Route 10 East 240 Madison Avenue 30 Deforest Road West Rocks Road 901 Route 10 East 240 Madison Av Road campus is not The WPSLI BEGINNING alk, CT 06851 New York, NY 10016 Whippany, NJ 07981 Dix Hills, NY 11746 Norwalk, CT 06851 Whippany, NJ 07981 New York, NY 10016 Dix Hills, NY 11746 ISLAND associated with campus is not -229-0465 973-500-6480 212-719-5598 x2213 641-638-2705 973-500-6480 646-869-4600 646-869-4600 631-779-2400 the Half Hollow affiliated with instonPrepCT @WPTransitions @WinstonPrepNJ @WinstonPrepLI SEPT 2018 @WinstonPrepCT @WinstonPrepNJ @WPTransitions @WinstonPrepLI Hills Central CT

NJ

WT

APPLY NOW www.winstonprep.edu | |liadmissions@winstonprep.edu APPLY NOW www.winstonprep.edu liadmissions@winstonprep.edu 30

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

The Winston The Winston Preparatory Preparatory School does not School does not discriminate discriminate against applicants against applicants and students on the basisand students on of race, color, or the basis of race, national or ethniccolor, or national origin.

the Half Hollow School District.

Hills Central School district.

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

NEW! Fall 2019 DYSLEXIA DIVISION

1:1 Evidence Based Reading Program Aligned with Orton Gillingham, the gold standard of Dyslexia instruction.

The Long Island Whole Child Academy A Cutting-Edge College Preparatory School Grades 1-11 Clinically Supported • Fully Individualized

Does your child experience:

Expressive and/or receptive language delays?

Executive functioning challenges?

Emerging anxiety and depression?

Diminishing self-esteem?

Contact us TODAY to schedule your FREE consultation!

(347) 668-3676

www.liwholechild.org

Helping Children Be The Very Best They Can Be! • Child Behavior Consulting provides the foundation of • • •

understanding the challenges children face related to learning, behavior and social-emotional development.

Specializing in executive functioning delays, ADHD, ODD, ASD, self-regulation, learning disabilities, and strong spirited children.

We work with families and children to teach the skills in “how to learn” and how to positively manage challenging behaviors.

Children learn to take control of their behavior while parents learn to keep calm and have their voices heard.

Contact us today for a FREE consultation

Setting Limits Communication

Bonding

Self-Regulation

631-617-1958

childbehaviorconsulting.com LongIslandParent 31

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

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 the maximum amount of services the law requires the School District to provide?

Going for your child’s first Individual 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.

Law Offices of

Brad H. Rosken, PLCC Counselor at Law

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

LongIslandParent 33

things to do

city bound

N Y C

Family Fun in Manhattan

This year’s Earth Day Bazaar will be Grand Bazaar NYC’s second annual event with more vendors creatively using recycled materials and educational nonprofits.

Sustainable Shopping

Courtesy Zeal Images

Support local artists and businesses while showing the Earth a little love at the NYC Earth Day Bazaar. Shop from a variety of independent dealers who use recycled materials to make jewelry, fashion, furniture, art, and home goods, as well as beauty and skincare products, clothing, and children’s toys and accessories made with sustainable, fair-trade materials. Plus, take time to learn how to reduce your footprint and about environmental programs available in the area. Sunday, April 21, 10am-5:30pm. Ages: All. Free. Grand Bazaar NYC, 100 W. 77th St., Upper West Side. grandbazaarnyc.org.

The Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra was founded to bring children from all backgrounds into New York’s famous club for a unique, live jazz experience.

Jam Out to Jazz

What better way to establish an appreciation for music than by starting at a young age? Inspire your little ones to learn an instrument by watching kids close to their age play at Jazz for Kids. The Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra, a group of musicians ages 11-18, take the stage and jam out while you and your family dance and enjoy a Blue Smoke barbecue brunch. Often, band members will be joined by guest artists from the New York City jazz scene. Sundays, 2pm. Ages: All. Suggested donation: $5. Jazz Standard, 116 E. 27th St., Flatiron; jazzstandard.com.

Courtesy The Jewish Museum

W he hile y re ou , v ’r isit e …

The Jewish Museum will host a Passover extravaganza with art, music, and dancing featuring the sounds of ShirLaLa.

The Jewish Museum

Deemed one of the oldest Jewish museums in the world, this institution connects Jewish culture and art for people of all religions and backgrounds with more than 30,000 works of art, objects, and media. Take the kids to the Archaeology Zone where they can learn about artifacts and take on the role of archaeologists to search for clues about objects from ancient times to the present day.

Visit it: 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side; thejewishmuseum.org Can’t-miss event: Freedom Art Jam (for Passover): Sunday, April 7, 11am-4pm Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 20-minute drive or a 1-hour, 40-minute LIRR and subway ride from Huntington

Courtesy Pip’s Island

Courtesy Grand Bazaar NYC

By Melissa Wickes

Pip’s Island combines stimulating audiovisual content with original narrative and various exploratory spaces.

Pip’s Island

This one-of-a-kind, immersive experience for kids of all ages combines gaming, animation, and fantasy with actors, puppets, interactive set-pieces, and animated characters. Follow the cast of Pip’s Island as they save the island from darkness using various aspects of STEAM. Kida can ride Pebble’s Cloud Rover, travel underground to outwit moles, or indulge in a treat from Grumble Plum’s Bakery.

Visit it: 400 W. 42nd St., Times Square Can’t-miss event: Grand re-opening on April 12; see website for tickets and more Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 30-minute drive or a 1-hour, 15-minute LIRR and subway ride from Huntington

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on All Kids Fair (No. 2 on our list).

APRIL

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

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WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar

suffolkcal@davlermedia.com

CALENDAR 36

Editor’s Hot Tickets

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We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Special Needs

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Show Time!, Animal Lovers

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Holiday Fun

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Fun Fairs & Festivals, Great Outdoors

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Smarty Pants

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Kindness Crusaders, Crafty Kids

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 9 events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!

1

Macy’s Flower Show FREE

WHEN: Through April 7: Monday-Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Macy’s, 100-104 W. 35th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Journey to Paradisios gives visitors a glimpse of the cosmos reimagined through flowers and garden landscapes.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Special in-store events include floral, food, and fashion demonstrations, and celebrity appearances.

WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com.

All Kids Fair

WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: Hilton Long Island/Huntington, 598 Broad Hollow Road, Melville AGES: All WHAT: Bring the kids for a day of fun, including a bounce house, popcorn, photo booth, cotton candy, face painting, balloon animals, cosplay, a petting zoo with sheep, goats, rabbits, and chickens. Take a photo with QuackerJack from the Long Island Ducks, see and feed live butterflies, and touch an 8-foot snake.

WHY WE LOVE IT: There will be more than 80 exhibitors, plus tons of kids’ classes.

WANT TO GO? $5; free for children 2 and younger. 516-621-1446. allkidsfair.com.

2

8 instrument “petting zoo.” Then, meet the performers after the performance!

WANT TO GO? $25-$10. 631-207-1313. patchoguetheatre.com.

Egg-cellent Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 11am-1pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Go on an egg scavenger hunt and design a Faberge-inspired egg craft.

WHY WE LOVE IT: You’ll also discover some of the many marine animals that lay eggs and see a scrimshaw ostrich egg from the collection.

WANT TO GO? $6; $12 child. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

5

Earth Day Festival

PJ Masks Live!

WHEN: April 12-14, Friday, 6pm; Saturday, 10:30am, 2pm, and 5:30pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: NYCB LIVE! Home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike Uniondale, Uniondale AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Watch Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko along with their new friend, PJ Robot, as they try to save the day from the sneaky villains.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The show is complete with your favorite music and brand-new songs you’ve never heard before.

WANT TO GO? $28.50 and up. 516-744-6308. nycblive.com.

WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 10am-3pm WHERE: Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, 350 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank AGES: All WHAT: Learn about recycling, reusing, composting, and how we can keep our earth clean.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Enjoy wagon rides, crafts, and more!

WANT TO GO? $5 ages 3 and older. 631-852-4610. ccesuffolk.org.

‘The Wizard of Oz’

WHEN: Wednesday, April 24, 9:30am-5pm WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Explore the universe with solar telescopes, digitarium programs (star lab), demos, hands-on science activities, and makeand-take projects.

WHY WE LOVE IT: You can check out Apollo artifacts and create a star wheel to help you locate the constellations.

WANT TO GO? $9-$20. 516-572-4111. cradleofaviation.org.

3

WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 E. Main St., Patchogue AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Cowardly Lion for a theatrical production of the classic movie.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Head to the lobby before the show for a special

4

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

6

7

17th Annual Astronomy & Space Day

8

Big Apple Circus

WHEN: April 26-28, Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm and 7pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury AGES: All WHAT: See this special production of Big Apple Circus designed specifically for the NYCB Theatre at Westbury.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s everything we’ve come to expect from this onering show: an intimate and artistic style with astounding human feats.

WANT TO GO? $29.50 and up. 516-247-5200. thetheatreatwestbury.com.

33rd Annual Arbor Day Family Festival

9

WHEN: April 27-28, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-4pm WHERE: Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay AGES: All WHAT: The 2019 Arbor Day Family Festival features live music, children’s crafts, activities, tree climbing for children, and plant clinics.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will think it’s cool to plant trees with Smokey Bear!

WANT TO GO? $20 per vehicle. 516-922-8600. plantingfields.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS 8th Annual Zumba for Autism

WHEN: Friday, April 5, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: Ward Melville High School, 380 Old Town Road, East Setauket AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Zumba, music, refreshments, autism awareness merchandise, and prizes.

WANT TO GO? $20; $10 student. 516-404-2306. nsasa.org.

Let’s Get Together FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 5, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children will develop friendships through language, art, and more.

WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

Sensory Friendly Movie FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 2pm WHERE: Connetquot Public Library, 760 Ocean Ave., Bohemia AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Lights will be on and volume will be softer than at the movie theater.

WANT TO GO? 631-567-5079. connetquotlibrary.org.

Caring Bunny Easter Photo Experiance

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 9-11am WHERE: Walt Whitman Shops, 160 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station AGES: All WHAT: A subdued, and welcoming environment for children with special needs.

WANT TO GO? Photo packages available to purchase. 631-271-1746. simon.com.

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

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: There will be brighter lighting and reduced sound levels. Guests will be free to enter and exit the theater during the performance with an adult.

WANT TO GO? $15. 631-261-2900. engemantheater.com.

Conversations in the Arts: To Guerrilla Girls and Beyond FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 2, 7-8pm WHERE: Main Street Gallery, 213 Main St., Huntington AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Examine how the roles of women in the visual arts have changed since the start of the Guerilla Girls formation.

WANT TO GO? 631-271-8423. huntingtonarts.org.

2019 Empowered to Connect Simulcast! FREE

‘Madagascar’: A Musical Adventure: Sensory Friendly Performance

Sensory Storytime FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 16, 10-11am WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Especially designed for children with sensory integration challenges.

WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. middlecountrypubliclibrary.org.

WHEN: April 5-6, Friday-Saturday, 10am-6pm WHERE: CenterPoint Church, Bay Shore Campus, 68 Redington St., Bay Shore AGES: Adult WHAT: Teachings will equip families and professionals to better serve children impacted by adoption, foster care, trauma, and loss.

WANT TO GO? 631-665-2489. affcny.org.

A Special Night for Our Special Kids Presented by Nassau Suffolk Services for Autism

Tot’s Day Out: Fish Windsock FREE

Sing Into Spring

WHEN: Monday, April 8, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy an interactive hour of fun and educational activities.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Free Cooking with Stars Class FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-12pm and 12:30-1:30pm WHERE: Park Shore Country Day Camp, 450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join for a free class to learn about the newest specialty camp.

WANT TO GO? 631-499-8580. parkshoredaycamp.com.

WHEN: Tuesday, April 23, 7:30-10:30pm WHERE: Adventureland, 2245 Route 110, Farmingdale AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a night of family fun at Adventureland.

WANT TO GO? Call for cost. 631-462-0386. nsasa.org.

WHEN: April 23-25, Tuesday-Thursday, 10-11:30am WHERE: Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Educational & Cultural Center, 97P Main St., Stony Brook AGES: 3-8 WHAT: A program for children of all abilities with music, songs, and more.

WANT TO GO? $100 for all three days. 631-689-5888. stonybrookvillage.com.

Annual Youth Abilities Resource Fair FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 11am-2pm WHERE: Middle Country Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: All WHAT: A fun-filled day with supervised activities for children.

WANT TO GO? 631-451-6600. brookhavenny.gov. ›› LongIslandParent 37

Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid, Jr.’

WHEN: Through April 29: See website for show times WHERE: Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smitthown AGES: All WHAT: See the Disney classic come to life on stage.

WANT TO GO? $18. 631-724-3700. smithtownpac.org.

‘Me… Jane’

SHOW TIME! ‘The Little Mermaid’

WHEN: Through April 6: times vary WHERE: BroadHollow at East Islip, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: All WHAT: Journey under the sea with Ariel and her friends in a magical underwater kingdom.

WANT TO GO? $11 in advance; $13 after advance closes. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

Cardboard Explosion

WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 11:30am and 2pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: With help from the audience, Brad Shur transforms simple cardboard shapes into elaborate puppets.

WANT TO GO? $12. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

WHEN: Monday, April 29, 10am and 12:30pm WHERE: Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, 76 Main St., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join a young Dr. Jane Goodall and her chimpanzee friend as they learn about the importance of protecting all living species.

WANT TO GO? $12. 631-288-1500. whbpac.org.

Our Fabulous Variety Show Presents: Art

WHEN: April 25-May 5, Thursday-Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Guild Hall, 158 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A play that explores art and friendship and how it may or may not bring us together.

WANT TO GO? $28. 631-507-4603. ourfabulousvarietyshow.org.

‘The Wizard of Oz’

WHEN: April 23-May 25, see website for schedule WHERE: BayWay Arts Center Children’s Theatre, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: All WHAT: Follow Dorothy and her friends as they venture to the Emerald City.

WANT TO GO? $11 advance; $13. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

Master Illusionist Rick Thomas

WHEN: Friday, April 12, 8pm WHERE: The Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Rick Thomas performs illusions with a style unlike any other entertainer.

WANT TO GO? $55-$49; $10 food and beverage minimum. 631-727-4343. suffolktheater.com.

‘Awesome Allie: First Kid Astronaut’

WHEN: Wednesday, April 24, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Get ready for an adventure in space at this live musical theater show with audience participation!

WANT TO GO? $20; $18 children 2-12 and seniors. 516-572-4111. cradleofaviation.org.

‘Madagascar’: A Musical Adventure

WHEN: Through April 26: Saturday, 11am; Sunday, 10:30am WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Follow some animal friends as they escape from their zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey.

WANT TO GO? $15. 631-261-2900. engemantheater.com.

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

WHEN: April 12-27, see website for schedule WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Peter, Flopsy, Mopsy, and all their friends come to life in this delightful adaption.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-928-9100. theatrethree.com.

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ANIMAL LOVERS Raising Backyard Chickens FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-3pm WHERE: Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, 350 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank AGES: All WHAT: Learn all you need to know about raising chickens in your backyard.

WANT TO GO? 631-852-4610. ccesuffolk.org.

Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny

WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 7-8pm WHERE: Walt Whitman Shops, 160 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station AGES: All WHAT: Bring your furry friend for photos with the Easter Bunny.

WANT TO GO? Photos available to purchase. 631-271-1746. simon.com.

Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny

WHEN: Through April 14: Sundays, 7-8pm WHERE: Smith Haven Mall, 313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: All WHAT: Your pets can take photos with the Easter Bunny.

WANT TO GO? Photos available to purchase. 631-724-8066. simon.com.

DogVinci FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 10:30am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Meet Dagger DogVinci, the dog abstract artist, and see him in action. Then create abstract art!

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Penguin Egg Hunt

WHEN: April 20-21, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-3pm WHERE: Long Island Aquarium, 431 E. Main St., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Children can pick five eggs with a prize inside. The grand prize is a free birthday party!

WANT TO GO? $29.50 ages 13-61; $25.50 ages 62 and older; $22.50 children ages 3-12. 631-208-9200. longislandaquarium.com.

B.A.R.K.: Books Are Read to K-9’s FREE

WHEN: April 3-24, Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Read some stories to a trained therapy dog.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Hatchery Tours

WHEN: April 18-24, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 11am WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Learn how fish are cared for in the trout hatchery.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 kids ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

Live Animal Encounters

WHEN: April 18-24, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 2pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the hatchery’s reptiles and amphibians.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 kids ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

Trout Feeding

WHEN: April 18-24, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Watch the trout jump and splash as they eat.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 kids ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

Serpents, Dragons & Turtles FREE

WHEN: Thursday, April 25, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Meet a python, snapping turtle, bearded dragon, box turtle, and other reptiles while learning about their adaptations.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Spring Break, Animal Tracks: Who’s Been Here?

WHEN: Thursday, April 25, 11am-3pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Learn to identify animal tracks and make tracks to take home.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 kids ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

Weekend at The Long Island Game Farm

WHEN: April 19-21, Friday, 11am-3:30pm, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: The Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville AGES: All WHAT: Learn about chicks, bunnies, ducklings, calves, and kid goats, and pet and hand-feed them. Then enjoy amusement rides and pony rides.

WANT TO GO? $14; $16.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 2. 631-878-6644. longislandgamefarm.com.

HOLIDAY FUN Easter Egg Hoppening

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 9am; 10am; 11am WHERE: Heritage Center, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: An egg hunt, a visit with the Easter Bunny, and a snack.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-509-0882. msheritagetrust.org.

Egg Scramble FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am WHERE: Adventureland, 2245 Route 110, Farmingdale AGES: All WHAT: Receive a bunny booklet with vendor logos and redeem the correct logo at each station for a free giveaway!

WANT TO GO? 631-694-6868. adventureland.us.

Easter Themed Toddler Time

WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 9-11am WHERE: Sky Zone Deer Park, 111 Rodeo Drive, Deer Park AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Jump with the Easter Bunny!

WANT TO GO? $20. 631-392-2600. skyzone.com/deerpark.

Dynamic Kids NY: Earth Day FREE

WHEN: Monday, April 15, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children will help each other jump rope, toss and catch, and relay race.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Assemblywoman Jean-Pierre’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt FREE WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 12-2pm WHERE: Tanner Park Playground, 400 Baylawn Ave., Copiague AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy an Easter Egg hunt and kids’ attractions.

WANT TO GO? 631-957-2087. lewisl@nyassembly.gov.

Easter Bunny Photo Time

WHEN: Through April 20: Sunday-Thursday, 11am-8pm; Friday-Saturday, 10am-8pm WHERE: Walt Whitman Shops, 160 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station AGES: All WHAT: Meet the Easter Bunny!

WANT TO GO? Photo packages available to purchase. 631-271-1746. simon.com.

Easter Bunny Photo Time at Smith Haven Mall

WHEN: Through April 20: Monday-Friday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-7pm WHERE: Smith Haven Mall, 313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: All WHAT: Hop on over to the Easter Bunny!

WANT TO GO? Photo packages available to purchase. 631-724-8066. simon.com

Breakfast with the Bunny

WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 10-11:30am WHERE: Adventureland, 2245 Route 110, Farmingdale AGES: All WHAT: Unlimited breakfast buffet, a doughnut decorating activity, and more WANT TO GO? $24.99. 631-694-6868. adventureland.us.

Kids Easter Party 2019 FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 21, 9am, 10:30am, and 12pm WHERE: Truth Community Church, 50 Bell Ave., Flanders AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy breakfast, songs, a photo booth, an egg hunt, and more WANT TO GO? 631-727-1651. truthcommunity.org/kids. ››

LongIslandParent 39

The 10th Annual Eco-Carnival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 11am-4pm WHERE: Seatuck Environmental Center, 550 S. Bay Ave., Islip AGES: All WHAT: Check out hands-on nature stations, nature-inspired crafts, games, and booths, as well as music, food, and ice cream.

WANT TO GO? 631-581-6908. seatuck.org.

Spring Festival

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Family Earth Day Expo FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 9am-12pm WHERE: Books for Babies and Lucky to Live Here Realty, 129 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Vendors will be selling jewelry, designer clothing, skincare, and foods.

WANT TO GO? 631-241-1225. luckytolivehererealty.com.

West Hills Spring Carnival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-3pm WHERE: West Hills Day Camp, 21 Sweet Hollow Road, Huntington AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join the West Hills family for a day of fun with carnival rides, bounce houses, slides, and face painting.

WANT TO GO? 631-427-6700. westhillsdaycamp.com.

YMCA KidFest

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 12-2pm WHERE: YMCA of Long Island, 200 W. Main St., Bay Shore AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt, arts and crafts, challenge course and activities, inflatables, and refreshments!

WANT TO GO? $5 per child for Easter Egg Hunt. 631-665-4255. ymcali.org.

Spring Fest 2019 FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-4pm WHERE: Gillette Park, 24 Collins Ave., Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Have fun with a petting zoo, magician, juggler and stilt-walker, superheroes and princesses, arts and crafts, food vendors, raffles, and a spring bonnet contest.

WANT TO GO? 631-567-5257. greatersayvillechamber.com.

Bunny Fest at Eagle’s Nest

WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 8:30-11am WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate with a petting zoo, egg hunt, photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, and bubbles galore.

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 members. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

White Post Farms Eggstravaganza

WHEN: Through April 21: Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: White Post Farms of Melville, 250 Old Country Road, Melville AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Enjoy spring with a visit from the Easter Bunny, baby animals, Farmland Express and pony rides, bounce houses, and slides.

WANT TO GO? $19.95. 631-351-9373. whitepostfarms.com.

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WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Fishing, food, music, a petting zoo, animal encounters, and more.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 kids ages 3-12; members free. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Annual Earth Day Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 12-5pm WHERE: Tackapausha Museum & Preserve, 2225 Washington Ave., Seaford AGES: All WHAT: Wildlife presentations, crafts, trail walks, and science-based activities.

WANT TO GO? $10. 516-571-7443. nassaucountyny.gov.

Skoblicki Scientists: Protect the Planet

WHEN: Wednesday, April 17, 5-5:45pm WHERE: Robert E. Reid, Sr. Recreation Center, Defense Road Route 25A, Shoreham AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Discover ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle to save the earth.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-744-2601. brookhavenny.gov.

Spring Egg Hunt

WHEN: Saturday, April 20, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Bring a basket to collect eggs for a Spring Egg Hunt.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 for kids ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

Early Morning Tower Tour: Easter Morning

WHEN: Sunday, April 21, 5:30am WHERE: Fire Island Lighthouse, Burma Road, Fire Island AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy the scenery from the top of the tower as the sun rises.

WANT TO GO? $25; $15 members. 631-661-4876. fireislandlighthouse.com.

Earth Day Planting FREE

WHEN: Monday, April 22, 10am-4pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: Choose from a variety of seeds to start a home garden.

WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Kids Spring Break Week

WHEN: April 23-26, Tuesday-Friday, 1-3pm WHERE: Centereach Pool, 286 Hawkins Road, Centereach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Discover something new each day with crafts, games, and themed days.

WANT TO GO? $45 for full program; $12 daily. 631-451-6133. brookhavenny.gov.

SMARTY PANTS

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

Free Robotics Class FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 6, first-second grades: 11am-12pm; third-fifth grades: 12:30-1:30pm WHERE: Extreme STEAM Science Kids, 450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Attend free robotics classes and learn about the summer camp.

WANT TO GO? 631-499-8580. parkshoredaycamp.com.

High Protein Breakfast Recipe FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 11am-12pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn how to make and enjoy some healthy breakfast meals.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Maker Spotlight: SnappyXO Robots

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 1:30-3:30pm WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: All WHAT: Professor Purwar will share his famous SnappyXO robots.

WANT TO GO? $5; free for members and children younger than 1.

631-331-3277. longislandexplorium.org.

Ocean Science Sunday

WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 12-1pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Discover eco-friendly alternatives to cleaning products and make a sample size to take home.

WANT TO GO? $6; $12 child. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

April, 27th 10am - 4:30pm

Fun For The Whole Family!

Games Live Animal rs Encounte Music

Petting Zoo

Kid’s FishinFood g

www.cshfishhatchery.org • 516-692-6768 1660 Rte. 25A, Cold Spring Harbor

Hour of Code FREE

WHEN: Monday, April 22, 3-4pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn to code using BLOCKLY, a simple programming language.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Have Fun While Learning to Sign FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 10-11am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children will learn the basic skills of sign language.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Maker Spotlight: Cool Catapults

WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 1:30-3:30pm WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: All WHAT: Help design, construct, and test catapults.

WANT TO GO? $5; free for members and children younger than 1.

631-331-3277. longislandexplorium.org.

Tesla Visiting Exhibit: ‘The Science of Sound’

WHEN: April 6-28, see website for schedule WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: All WHAT: Get hands-on with a singing Tesla coil, experience musical lightning, and more.

WANT TO GO? $5; free for members and children younger than 1.

631-331-3277. longislandexplorium.org. ››

LongIslandParent 41

CRAFTY KIDS DIY Neckties for Shelter Pets FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 2, 7-8pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Learn basic sewing techniques and create neckties for shelter animals to wear in adoption photos.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Hands-On Art Session

WHEN: Thursday, April 4, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn the elements of art and use different materials to create masterpieces.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-751-0066. longislandmuseum.org.

LEGO Club FREE

KINDNESS CRUSADERS Island Harvest Mobile Food Pantry FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 9, 2-3pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: Adult WHAT: Bring goods to be distributed to those in need.

WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

AHRC Suffolk’s Annual Polar Bear Splash FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 13, 9am WHERE: Bay Shore Marina, South Clinton Avenue, Bay Shore AGES: All WHAT: Take a dip and raise money for a good cause.

WANT TO GO? 631-585-0100. ahrcsuffolk.org/splash19.

WHEN: Friday, April 5, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Connect with friends while building with Lego.

WANT TO GO? 631.941.4080. emmaclark.org.

Teen and Parent’s Paint Night FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 5, 7-8pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Paint a beautiful spring flower.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Spider-Man: The Art of the Comic FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 2pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: An artist and comic book aficionado will discuss the style of Spider-Man comics and lead a comic book art class.

WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Ukrainian Egg Decorating Workshop

WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 9am WHERE: Walt Whitman Shops, 160 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children can have fun and give back to charity during this annual Easter Egg Hunt.

WANT TO GO? $5. 631-271-1746. simon.com.

WHEN: Saturday, April 6, 10am-12pm WHERE: Suffolk County Farm & Education Center, 350 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn how to make Ukrainian-styled eggs by using permanent dyes and beeswax.

WANT TO GO? $20. 631-852-4610. suffolkcountyfarm.campbrainregistration.com.

Huntington Arts Council Presents Singer Song Writer Night

Heckscher Family Hour Tour and Art Activities

Annual Easter Egg Hunt to Benefit Birthday Wishes of Long Island

WHEN: Thursday, April 25, 7-10pm WHERE: Main Street Gallery, 213 Main St., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: This popular series offers a community-based opportunity for people to create and perform in a supportive environment.

WANT TO GO? $10 donation to perform; $5 donation to attend.

631-271-8423. huntingtonarts.org.

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WHEN: Sunday, April 7, 1-2pm WHERE: Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Experience the current exhibitions through close observation, conversation, and hands-on gallery projects.

WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children; free admission for members. 631-3513250. heckscher.org.

Cork Boats FREE

WHEN: Monday, April 8, 4pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Make a boat out of cork and discover how it floats.

WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Museum Adventures

WHEN: Thursday, April 11, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Students will visit a gallery and engage in crafts and activities.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-751-0066. longislandmuseum.org.

Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children explore safe, multi-sensory materials while building fine motor and socialization skills.

WANT TO GO? $24; free for members. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

Springtime Green Screen Photo Shoot FREE

WHEN: Thursday, April 25, 2-4:30pm WHERE: Connetquot Public Library, 760 Ocean Ave., Bohemia AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Have your picture taken and get your face painted!

WANT TO GO? 631-567-5079. connetquotlibrary.org.

Build-A-Boat Workshop

WHEN: Wednesday, April 17, 3pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Upcycle crayons to make a project!

WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

WHEN: April 23-25, Tuesday and Thursday, 1-3pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Create a wooden vessel with a variety of materials WANT TO GO? $12. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Spring Break, Backyard Birds

Paint LOL Pets or Marvel Comics

Spring Egg Collage FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 19, 11am-3pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Look for feathered visitors, make a bird feeder, and create a bird’s nest.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 kids ages 3-12; members free. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

WHEN: April 22-25, Monday-Thursday; 11am-12:30pm and 1:303pm WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Paint LOL Pets (morning session) or Marvel Comics (afternoon session) with step-by-step instruction.

WANT TO GO? $20. 631-608-9048. keytomyart.com.

LEGO Club FREE

WHEN: Monday, April 22, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Connect friends over Lego projects.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

WHEN: Friday, April 26, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about penguin habitats, see real feathers, and create a penguin diorama.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Measure, Make & Marvel! FREE

Studio Saturdays

WHEN: Tuesday, April 23, 1-2pm (kindergarten-second grades); 2:303:30pm (third-sixth grades) WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Develop the perfect green for the Incredible Hulk, Shrek, or Fiona.

WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

3D Springtime Cards FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 23, 1pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Make an adorable pop-up card.

WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Art Party

WHEN: April 3-24, Tuesdays, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Kids can gain confidence while attending art classes on their own.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

stART STUDIO

WHEN: April 4-25, Thursdays, 10:45-11:45am WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton-Sag

Celebrate World Penguin Day FREE

WHEN: April 6-27, Saturdays, 12-3pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Drop in for hands-on activities inspired by current exhibitions.

WANT TO GO? $12; $8 seniors ages 62 and older; $4 children ages 4-12 and students with ID; free for members and children younger than 4. 516-484-9337. nassaumuseum.org.

Floral Design Made Easy

WHEN: Saturday, April 27, 10am-12pm WHERE: Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Students will learn to create floral arrangements.

WANT TO GO? $30; $25 members. 631-298-5292. hallockville.com.

Family Sundays

WHEN: April 7-28, Sundays, 1-4:30pm WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Take time to reconnect while talking about and making art together with your child.

WANT TO GO? $12; $8 seniors ages 62 and older; $4 children ages 4-12 and students with ID; free for members and children younger than 4. 516-484-9337. nassaumuseum.org.

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A Birthday Bash for Less

››

You don’t have to break the bank to throw a memorable party for your child. Party planners and parents who’ve been there share their top tips for keeping costs down. By Madeleine Burry

A

birthday and the accompanying party are a big deal for kids.

That’s no surprise—after all, what’s not to love about cake and presents? Thanks to the Internet (and especially Instagram and Pinterest), you can find plenty of inspiration when it’s time to plan your child’s annual celebration.

But some of those stunning decor, activity, and food options you’ll spot online require hours of painstaking work—and often, hefty price tags, too. It can be easy to DIY yourself to exhaustion or exceed your budget, but that’s not necessary. “Children will have fun no matter what,” points out Rehaab Zohny, director of operations at Gymtime Rhythm and Glues in Manhattan.

If you’re on a budget (of time or money…or both), you can still throw a blowout party—we spoke with moms, dads, and party planning pros, to get their very best tips for hosting a birthday party that’ll deliver Instagram double-taps without breaking the bank.

Take advantage of your location.

If your child was born in a temperate month, you’ve hit the jackpot living in the New York metro area. “For twenty-five dollars, plus a processing fee, you can get a permit for various locations across NYC parks and dress the party to any theme you like,” says Manhattan mom Noelle Pileggi.

That’s just one of many outdoor options. You can do a carousel party in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park (with wristbands that get kids unlimited rides), suggests Louise Simon, a Brooklyn mom of two.

For years, Paul Lyren checked the calendar for Brooklyn street fairs scheduled near his son’s birthday—especially ones with bouncy 44

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

castles. “For a smoking ten-dollar bill you buy your kid a wristband that lets them bounce all day. So, a ten-kid party costs a hundred dollars, plus a cake and pizza, and you are out for under a hundred and fifty dollars!” Lyren says. You can also petition the city to close down your street, then rent a bouncy castle yourself, he adds.

There are still plenty of options for kids born in colder months: try the skating rink, a bowling alley, or hand out a roll of quarters to each attendee at an arcade. Or, go DIY-free and head to a party destination. This can offer some real perks. For one, you don’t need to worry about setup—or cleanup, Zohny notes.

Another option is to host at home. An indoor, at-home party means you won’t need to have a weather back-up plan.

Figure out a theme.

A theme really ties the party together, says Julie Ontaneda of My Classic Party, an event planning and styling company in Rye. That’s true even if it’s very simple, such as a color or your kid’s favorite things (think: unicorns, trucks, dinosaurs, or “favorites” for older kids), she says. “A theme allows for simple touches, like theme-named food items, that are Pinterest-worthy and memorable without breaking the bank,” Ontaneda says.

Save more by going all out in only a few select areas, she recommends.

You can also encourage guests to get involved, suggests Amy Spielholtz, a Manhattan mom. For her daughter’s birthday, the theme was The Enchantment Under the Sea Dance, and guests were encouraged to dress as their favorite Back to the Future character or sea creature. “We were surprised by how many people got into it and it made things so much more festive as a result,” Spielholz says.

Choose an activity.

An activity is often the priciest aspect of a party, Ontaneda says, so start there, then see what’s left in your budget. If you’re doing the event at a destination, this step may already be taken care of.

If not, you can hire someone, or figure out a fun, age-appropriate activity. “When it comes to entertainment, do a treasure hunt. It can last a long time, the treasure can be things on the less expensive side, and the children will have a ball. Play musical chairs or musical statues—fun doesn’t have to be expensive,” says Lucy Harris, mom and CEO of Hello Baby Bump, which is based in Queens.

In fact, doing too many activities, and overly complicated ones, can lead to a party that feels rushed and chaotic, Zohny says.

“Keep it basic and simple for the best outcome,” she recommends.

And remember: An activity can sometimes outlast the big event.

“I wanted some type of activity, but I wasn’t looking to pay for an entertainer or rent equipment,” Spielholtz says—so for around a hundred dollars, she bought a ball pit holder and hundreds of balls online. She says she sees it as an investment—the ball pit is stashed at her daughter’s grandparents’ house for occasional play, and it will be available to use again at birthday parties for several years to come.

Trim your guest list.

It’s tempting to invite all your friends, along with your kid’s whole class. Resist! Keeping the guest list trimmed down means fewer decorations, fewer cupcakes, and fewer supplies, Harris says.

“Keep the guest list small, figure out the maximum number you want, and talk with your child about who they want,” Harris says.

But if you really crave a big bash (or if your kid’s school or day care requires that every kid get invited), “consider a joint party with a friend,” Ontaneda suggests. It’s “half the cost and double the fun!”

Consider skipping paper invites, too, Harris urges, and opt for text messages and Facebook invites instead.

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Benefit from other parents’ parties.

Party supplies await on Facebook marketplace and local Facebook groups, says Kristin Fuerst, mom of two. “You can often find someone unloading their used (but perfectly fine) party stuff at a big discount, and you might be able to score some cool things you might not otherwise have been able or willing to spring for,” Fuerst says. “Lots of moms just want to help out another mom— or just get stuff out of the house and not in a landfill.”

Let your friends lend a hand, too. Nearly any parent will understand that you don’t always have the space to stash endless chairs and other big items. Borrow items from friends and family, Harris recommends.

And “when people offer to help out, there is nothing wrong accepting it. You will more than likely offer it back in return,” Harris says.

Create a keepsake item for memories down the road.

Photos are a big path to a memorable party for guests. But Harris suggests having guests craft and sign a keepsake item, too. It can be simple, like a canvas board with attendees’ handprints with their names below.

Don’t forget to enjoy yourself!

If you’re stressed, it’ll show. Same goes if you’re enjoying yourself. “If you’re having a good time, your guests will have a good time,” Zohny says.

Bottom line: few people will remember the decor and cake.

What’ll stick is if the event is fun. “Remember, it’s for the children! Make sure they are having fun and you are there every step of the party enjoying just as much as they are. They only turn this age once!” Zohny says.

Madeleine Burry is a freelance writer and editor who has held staff positions at Parents. com, Scholastic, and About.com. Burry lives in Brooklyn with her husband and their cat.

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BounceU of Farmingdale (631) 777-JUMP (5867) • BounceU.com/farmingdale 101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735 LongIslandParent 45

Birthday Party Directory Birthday Party Places @ Play Amusements

229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com Have your next party at @ Play Amusements! It offers 40,000-squarefeet of fun ranging from arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, a roller coaster, a carousel, disco room, laser tag, and five glow-in-the-dark, private party rooms! It even provides all the paper goods, invites, thank-you notes, food, and a private hostess!

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. Private parties are meticulously planned and prepared by our knowledgeable staff, so parents can relax and enjoy themselves.

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, and 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 cshfishhatchery.org info@cshfishhatchery.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. Fishing Parties are available for children turning age 4 and older.

Gravity Vault Melville Indoor Rock Gym

40 Melville Park Road 516-777-9255 gravityvault.com/locations/melville-ny melville@gravityvault.com Host a birthday party with The Gravity Vault where ages 5 and older can come climb and have fun. Climbing is a great way to celebrate your birthday!

Our awesome climbing parties give kids an exciting day they will never for-

46

get! 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.

Huntington Center for Performing Arts 310 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-4626 huntingtoncenteronline.com huntingtoncenter@yahoo.com Make your child’s birthday a memorable and creative event with our dance-themed birthday parties. Our staff will help you be creative with your theme; your choice of ballerina, nutcracker, soldier, princess, or sugar plum fairy! As a special treat, a guest artist will come in costume to perform for your guests!

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Pier 86, West 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 captivates groups of all ages and interests.

Choose from exciting themes, value packages, and customization options to create an original birthday adventure they’ll never forget. Packages start at $30 per person.

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 Celebrate your child’s birthday with us at Key to My Art! Your child chooses what the group paints. They can choose any theme, character, animal, or place. Parties include all supplies from aprons to easels, plus step-by-step instruction, pizza, and juice for all the children. Everyone leaves with a finished painting.

Long Island Aquarium

431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH2O (426) or 631-208-

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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 ice cream cake. All parties include a guided tour of the aquarium, 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 The perfect party for your sports fan! 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.

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 Blvd., 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 A Saf-T-Swim pool party is a great way to celebrate year-round! You and 24 guests will enjoy two hours or more of fun in our 88-degree heated pools, followed by a celebration with pizza in your own private party room.

Invitations, party host, a lifeguard, and thank-you cards included.

Long Island Explorium

Sky Zone Trampoline Park-Deer Park

Long Island Nets

Splish Splash

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 wellloved STEM challenges and give your friends the most memorable birthday party ever. Packages available. Call to reserve your best party today!

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 shoutouts.

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 older. Choose from our treasury of super imaginative projects or use favorite themes and activities as a creative springboard. We customize the fun to your child’s interest!

Picasso Kidz, Creative Art Studio For Children

72 Broadway, Greenlawn 631-261-5500 picassokidz.com picassokidzart@gmail.com Picasso Kidz puts the “ART” in pARTy! We have many packages and options for ages 2-17. We are committed to creating a fun party and making sure each artist creates a work that is uniquely theirs. Party hosts are NYS-certified art teachers, who teach the children two unique art lessons.

Saf-T-Swim School

Suffolk: 3500 Veterans Memorial Highway,

111 Rodeo Drive, Deer Park 631-392-2600 skyzone.com/deerpark deerparkinfo@skyzone.com The best birthday parties are always at Sky Zone, Deer Park, Long Island. We customize every birthday party to create your party, your way. We have themed parties and super hero parties. We offer Dodgeball, Foam Zone, Sky Slam, and endless jumping opportunities. Private trampoline courts are available.

2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton 631-727-3600 splishsplashlongisland.com Planning a children’s birthday party this summer? Splish Splash makes party planning a piece of cake! Enjoy all day admission to the park and a birthday party lunch! Let our staff members take care of the planning so you can enjoy the day stress-free. Book your party today!

Studio E Art Classes

565 Route 25A, Miller Place 631-744-4001 studioeartclass.com/parties Studio E offers birthday party parties for 10 painters, with two hours of party time, art project of choice, two pizza pies, juice, water, homemade cupcakes, paper goods, and personalized invitations. The best party around for the best price around! For more information visit studioeartclass. com/parties or call 631-744-4001.

Thomas School of Horsemanship Riding Academy

250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840 tshcamp.com; tsh@tshcamp.com Birthdays are more fun with horses and friends! Ride, play, and have exclusive use of our party room! Children receive one hour of riding time taught by one of our certified ride instructors who will teach them a funfilled beginner lesson. Our facilities allow parties to run rain or shine!

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CONTACT GROUP SALES AT: GROUPSALES@LONGISLANDNETS.COM OR 844 .LINETS.1

LongIslandParent 47

raising kids baby

Potty Training 101

››

Getting your kids out of diapers can be a frustrating—but ultimately rewarding—task.

Here’s how to make the experience as smooth as possible. By Barbara Russo

P

otty training is a big step in your child’s development. It’s a very important milestone for both you and your toddler. But how do you know it’s time for your little one to make the transition from diapers to toilet?

We spoke to some potty-training experts, and they agree that watching for the signs is key.

“The biggest factor contributing to the success of potty training is the readiness of the child. The average age of readiness varies between twenty-two and thirty months,” says Devan Van LanenWanek, M.D., of Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park. “Some subtle signs that your kid wants to learn how to use the toilet are showing interest in other people’s bathroom habits and expressing disgust at their dirty diapers.”

Additionally, your child needs to be able to hold her bodily functions, communicate her need to go, undress and redress, and wash her hands on her own, Dr. Van Lanen-Wanek says.

So now that you’ve established a solid foundation of readiness, here are some tips to keep in mind for making the potty-training experience a smooth one for both you and your child.

Don’t Force It

Pressuring your child to begin potty training before he’s ready 48

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

can be disastrous.

“One study found that initiation of toilet training before twentyseven months was not associated with earlier completion of toilet training success,” Dr. Van Lanen-Wanek says. “This suggests there is little benefit to starting before this age.” But if your child shows signs of readiness before, there’s no harm in starting then.

Don’t Get Frustrated

Keep in mind that the process of potty training can take a long time and have many ups and downs.

“The average length of toilet training is six to seven months, tends to be longer for boys than girls, and also longer in first-born children than subsequent children,” Dr. Van Lanen-Wanek says. “Remember that every kid is unique and develops at their own pace.”

Be Consistent

Once you move out of diapers, it’s important not to go back, says Wendy Goldstein, a teacher at the 92Y Parenting Center in Manhattan.

“Know that there will be accidents, and it’s not a big deal,” Goldstein says. “When a child does have an accident, it helps her understand what it’s like to be wet. The goal is to try continued on page 50

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431 E. Main St, Riverhead, NY 631.208.9200, ext. 426 Visit LongIslandAquarium.com!

Closed losed Christmas & Thanksgiving. *Admission must be used within 7 days of your birthday. No exceptions and no refunds for previously purchased tickets. Valid ID is required. No ID no admittance. Birthday offer cannot be combined with any other offer. Good for 2019.

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LongIslandParent 49

BIRTHDAY MARKETPLACE

Thomas School of Horsemanship

SUMMER CAMP

Ages 3-15

‹‹ continued from pg. 48

to get her to understand what’s happening. Children don’t generally like the feeling of being wet, so this trains them for what their bodies need.”

Jody Bernstein, another teacher at the 92Y Parenting Center, adds that when accidents do happen, encourage your child to help you clean up.

“You may need to set aside some time to focus on toilet training for a weekend or holiday break,” Bernstein suggests. “Stay close to home as you work on this. Let your child be naked or wear just underpants.”

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EVENTS

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One of the biggest challenges of potty training is figuring out how to prevent accidents. They’re messy, time-consuming situations that no parent is thrilled to deal with.

“To alleviate this, parents need to make sure they have all the supplies needed to be successful, as well as a clear plan of action before they begin, rather than the ‘let’s just wing it’ approach,” says Kaylee Sallak, founder of Parenting Made Joyful Lifestyle, and teacher of parenting classes at Buy Buy Baby.

Sallak recommends the following supplies for your tool kit: • A small potty chair • An insert for the big potty • A squatty potty stool to go under a big potty • Thick cloth underwear • Lose pants that have no zippers or buttons • A timer • Potty books • Potty songs • Tangible rewards (like candy) • Cleaning supplies ready for messes • Plastic bags with you always • Spare clothes with you always And as for the plan of action? “It needs to be decided upon ahead of time and agreed upon by both parents and any caregiver so there is consistency across the board,” Sallak says. “Whatever approach is selected, it should be a solid three days of no plans whatsoever to focus completely on getting a strong start to potty training.”

Join

Bedtime Considerations

Nighttime should have special considerations, according to the experts. Craig Hammond, founder and CEO of Peejamas, functional pajamas designed to eliminate the need for nighttime diapers, recommends establishing a routine at night that includes going to Getbed advance onin the activities, the bathroom before and limitingnotice fluid intake evening.

“Parents don’tparticipate need to force theirin child to completely fast from water group discussions or fluids at night, but definitely start winding it down after dinner,” receive notices.

Hammond says.and “This helps to limit special fluid building in the bladder, potentially leading to a release during the night. Coupled with the routine of going potty prior to bed, this will help your child learn.”

Hammond also recommends—if possible—not using a diaper at night, just as your child wouldn’t in the day time during potty training. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents “Putting a child back in a diaper during the night is inconsistent and contrary to the daytime training recommendations,” Hammond says. “Of course, this can lead to potential messes, which there are solutions to avoid that, and may not be realistic for children with individual needs. But if you can do it, it is a much better way to help them really nail the nighttime phase of potty training.”

NYMetroParents

Join

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

Join

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents 50

April 2019 | nymetroparents.com ACTIVITIES

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Potty training your child can be fun and rewarding, but as with all things, should you have any concerns or questions, call your child’s doctor or health-care provider.

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

Barbara Russo is a freelance writer who holds a bachelor’s degree in communications

Meet the

Health Care Professional 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 that 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.

Pediatric Immediate Care 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337) 698 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn 718-389-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-of-the-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted. Complete pediatric and adolescent care, as well as baby, camp, school, and sports physicals. Certified urgent care recommended by Urgent Care Association of America. Thirty years of dedication to our patients. The offices are open seven days a week including holidays, 8am-11pm.

Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Queens: 718-640-6767 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, and expressive and receptive language disorders in 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.

Holy Angels Regional School Open Registration Schedule a family tour or a student shadowing day!

• Early Childhood Programs • Pre-K thru Eighth Grade 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 younger than 3, who have developmental delays.

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool continues to ensure delivery of the highest quality educational services to all students.

• Extra-Curricular Activities • Before & After Care • N.Y.S. Regents Courses for Algebra I and Earth Science Contact us: 631-475-0422 1 Division St. Patchogue, N Y 11772

www.holyangelsregional.org LongIslandParent 51

raising kids teen

Experts suggest taking cues from your environment to broach uncomfortable topics with your teens. For example, if characters in a show or movie you’re both watching are smoking or drinking, it’s an opportune time to talk to your teen about drugs and alcohol use.

Awkward Talks

››

As our kids get older, it’s time to have conversations that make us uncomfortable.

Here’s how to approach those topics—and get your teens to open up. By Lambeth Hochwald

I

f it feels like your heart-to-hearts with your teen have ground to a halt, take solace in the fact that this is par for the course.

Blame it on the teenage brain that’s going through incredibly important changes that ultimately help prepare kids to function in the adult world, says Teodora Pavkovic, a psychologist and parenting coach in New York City. “Not only does this have a psychological impact, but a physical one, too, which can be really scary for kids,” she says.

Get ready for these changes to take several years to shake out.

“The brain won’t stop going through this rollercoaster of a ride until kids are about twenty-five and brain change stabilizes,” Pavkovic says.

We asked top experts to sketch out what kids are going through at this age and offer some key tips for getting your child to actually open up and talk about even the most uncomfortable of topics.

Keep in Mind, It’s a Phase

The teenage years are the time when kids develop their own identity, says Stephanie Nilva, executive director of Day One New York, an organization in NYC that counsels survivors of intimate partner violence. “At the same time, their personalities haven’t been fully formed. Remember: It’s their role and responsibility to be testing boundaries, to be exploring, to be figuring out what their identity is.”

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Start Young

If your kids haven’t hit the teen stage quite yet, now’s the time to build trust with them. Then, when they’re older, make sure your overall concern for their health and safety comes first. “In other words, urge them to talk to you even if you’re upset that your teen violated an understanding you had,” Nilva says.

It’s Okay if Your Teen Prefers to Talk to Peers

Another change that comes with parenting teens is your kids may prefer to talk to their peers instead of you, says Amy Alamar, a parenting expert in Avon, CT, and author of The Parenting Project: Build Extraordinary Relationships with Your Child Through Daily Conversation.

“It can be awkward to talk to your teen if the conversation feels forced or inauthentic,” she says. “It’s natural for teens to prefer to talk to their peers and keep some things private. That’s okay and healthy for your teen but don’t give up. You always want to keep working on better ways to communicate one-on-one with your teen.”

Be Direct About Hygiene

The best way to talk about almost anything with your teen is to be open and direct, Alamar says, and this comes into play, especially,

with a topic such as personal hygiene. “Don’t beat around the bush,” Alamar says. “Of course, with hygiene and other touchy topics you’ll make the most impact if you broach it in a positive or lighthearted way and avoid sarcasm. ...Help your teen to see this is a state of humanity and not a reflection on who they are as a person.”

Speak Up About Vaping and Drugs

When it comes to the topic of alcohol, smoking, vaping, or drug use of any kind, you have two goals: Be clear about why you’re concerned and don’t shelter your child from the subject. “It’s better your child learns about risky behavior from you as it offers you the ability to share your values and expectations,” Alamar says. “It also shows your child that you are a trusted adult they can come to.”

While this doesn’t mean you should avoid consequences, Alamar suggests the conversation should be more about the experience. “Your goal is to help your child to understand the real dangers and your concerns,” she says. “Listen to find out why your child chose to do this or is thinking about it...and help your child to find alternative behaviors and/or help him or her to feel comfortable coming to you.”

‘The Talk’ Looks Different from When We Were Teens

When it comes to talking about sex, the easiest tip is to use the environment around you for these conversations, like a a song you hear or a character from a film, Pavkovic suggests. “Ask your teen very open-ended questions,” she says. “The two most important things here are that one: they feel you are emotionally calm and stable while you speak to them, and two: they feel your respect for their subjective experience.”

In other words, time your talk. “Don’t start these conversations…right after coming back from work exhausted or right after finding inappropriate texts on your child’s phone,” she adds. “You need to be the stabilizing factor for them.”

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Remember: You Won’t Have All the Answers

When you’re parenting during this phase, give yourself permission to be vulnerable, Pavkovic says. “Be kind to yourself by going into this phase knowing that you don’t know all the answers,” she says.

“The important thing is to get the conversation going and to be able to say, ‘You know what, this is a tough one and I may not know what to tell you, but let’s talk it out anyway.’”

It’s also key to keep your child’s strengths in mind. “This is your most powerful tool,” she says. “As you try to help them with each challenge they face, if you know their strengths you can coach them through using these strengths to resolve these issues.”

No pressure, but the steps you take now will forever make a difference in your teen’s life “by teaching them how to help themselves once they are living out there in the world without you,” Pavkovic says.

Lambeth Hochwald is a NYC-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in the city.

631-331-5351

37 Crystal Brook hollow Rd. Mount Sinai, NY 11766

Be Supportive Even If You Don’t Like Your Child’s Friends

Remember: The core struggle for teens is their need to belong to their peer group, Alamar says. “This means you should try to support friendships as best you can so your child can learn to have intimate relationships and build trust outside of just the immediate family,” she says. “If you want to raise an independent adult who can sustain meaningful relationships, then you have to offer opportunities for your child to explore relationships—even ones you are suspect of.”

If you judge your teen’s friends, she may take personal offense so tread lightly. “If you’re having trouble accepting your teen’s friends, consider inviting them to your home or see if you can get to know their families,” Alamar suggests. “In the end, your child is going to choose their friends, and the more you judge, the less likely they are to come to you with questions, concerns, or things to celebrate.”

●Animal Shows ●Giant Slide ●Sprinkler Park ●Slip-N-Slide ●Carnival ●Talent Show ●Glow Party ●Magic & More

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH SUMMER 2019 MONDAY - FRIDAY PROGRAM July 1-26, 2019 | 9:00am to 3:30pm

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 40th annual summer program for gifted children. The summer

program runs on Monday to Friday from July 1-26. The program is open to gifted children entering grades 2-8 in September 2019. The program expands students’ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

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

Follow us on Twitter

INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

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

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Camps for Older Kids Camp Kids ‘N Comedy at The Gotham Comedy Club

208 W. 23rd St., Manhattan 212-877-6115 kidsncomedy.com info@kidsncomedy.com Camp Kids ‘N Comedy is for kids ages 10-18 who are bored with kayaks, sick of poison ivy, and allergic to everything. It is a summer camp for kids who are funny. They will learn to write and perform stand-up comedy, play improv games, and re-enact scenes from comedy sketches.

Camp Loyaltown

Glen Avenue, Hunter 518-263–4242 camployaltown.org Each year, Camp Loyaltown, a program of Citizens Options Unlimited, welcomes more than 650 campers, ages 4-75, to enjoy the outdoors in a safe and fun environment. Located in the Catskill Mountains, Camp Loyaltown is a summer sleepaway camp and year-round respite program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Cooking With Stars Camp

450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-499-8580 parkshoredaycamp.com info@parkshoredaycamp.com This exciting cooking program is for boys and girls completing grades first-seventh as of June. Led by Chef Paula, our foodie campers will learn about food chemistry, recipes, equipment, skills, and how to work in a kitchen and prepare delicious cuisines from around the world.

Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp

3186 Sound Ave., Riverhead 516-433-7970 x11 ccenassau.org Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp in Riverhead is a coed, recreational eightweek sleep-away camp. A three-day, two-nights “mini camp” is also offered. Stay-over weekends are available! We are located on 140-acres of woodland, farmland, and beachfront on the Long Island Sound.

Future Stars Summer Camps

The College at Old Westbury 223 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury 516-876-3490

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Farmingdale State College 2350 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale St. Joseph’s College 155 W. Roe Blvd., Patchogue fscamps.com Future Stars Summer Camps offer weekly Sports, STEAM, and Specialty camp programs at three locations (The College at Old Westbury, Farmingdale State College, and St. Joseph’s College Patchogue). Programs are offered to children entering kindergarten-ninth grade. A balanced camp day ensures the perfect blend of instruction and fun.

Gersh Academy at West Hills Day Camp

(for children on the autism spectrum) 21 Sweet Hollow Road, Huntington 631-427-6700 gershsummerprogram.com; westhillsdaycamp.com/wp/programs-by-age/gersh-academy-whdc info@westhillscamp.com Our program offers children on the autism spectrum the opportunity to participate in a traditional summer camp experience while receiving the support necessary to be in a mainstream setting. Small groups, certified special education teachers, placement based on capabilities, and support for development of social skills, life skills, and independence.

Great Strides Long Island

41 Coram-Swezeytown Road, Middle Island 631-786-9708 greatstridesli.org julie@greatstridesli.org Great Strides offers equestrian activities for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Our equine friends can help us face all of life’s challenges with strength and confidence. Offering summer programs, including a weeklong introduction to horses in July and August. Ask about riding lessons, birthday parties, therapeutic riding, and scholarships.

Hofstra Summer Camps

101 Oak St., Uniondale 516-463-CAMP (2267) hofstra.edu/academics/ce/summer-camp/index.html; hofstra.edu/camps ce-camps@hofstra.edu

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Hofstra Summer Camps’ partnership with Nassau BOCES gives high school students the opportunity to explore potential career paths all summer long at the Nassau BOCES Barry Tech Center.

Course options include Aviation; Audio, Video, and Graphic Design; Construction Trade; Culinary Arts; STEM; and Veterinary Science.

Kids Country Day Camp

37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mount Sinai 631-331-5351 kidscountrydaycamp.com 10 acres of indoor and outdoor adventure, sports, activities, and special events. Kids take part in more than 50 fun, exciting activities including field and court sports, arts and crafts, dance, karate, talent show, glow party, a giant water slide, pedal karts, and a challenge course. Combination of weeks and days available.

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, director LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 liu.edu/giftedyouth The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the 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.

Lynch School of Ballet

Karen Lynch, artistic director 237A E. Main St., Huntington 631-470-9711 lynchballet.com; info@lynchballet.com Lynch School of Ballet offers a variety of summer programs in a professional and nurturing environment. Young dancers have a magical experience in our Swan Lake Camp. Intermediate and advanced dancers improve their technique in our July Ballet Intensive and August Ballet Workshop. Visit lynchballet.com or call 631-470-9711 for details.

Ohman School of Ballet

New York Dance Theatre 60 Calvert Ave., Commack

631-462-6266 ohmanballet.org office@ohmanballet.com The Ohman School of Ballet was founded in 1979 by former NYC Ballet soloist Frank Ohman.

The school is a non-competition, non-recital school, focusing on proper classical ballet technique.

Offering a two-week summer intensive as well as summer evening classes for children through age 17, and Ballet Barre Fitness classes.

Park Shore Country Day Camp

450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-499-8580 parkshoredaycamp.com info@parkshoredaycamp.com Located in Dix Hills on 15 acres.

Programs for ages 2-14. Activities include Athletics, Aquatics, High Ropes Course, Bungee, Rock Wall, Ninja Course, ATVs, Arts and Crafts, Performing Arts, and special events. Specialty camps: Extreme STEAM Science Kids, Sports Track, and Cooking With Stars. Transportation, before- and after-care, and lunch available.

Park Shore Travel Camp

450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-499-8580 parkshoredaycamp.com info@parkshoredaycamp.com Park Shore has three unique travel programs for campers completing grades fifth-eighth in June. Travel campers take day trips both on and off Long Island in addition to exciting overnight trips to Dorney Park, Hershey Park, Niagara Falls, Vermont, Busch Gardens, Boston, and others that are scheduled.

SPORTIME Summer Camps

Several locations in Nassau, Suffolk, Manhattan, and Westchester 888-698-3664 sportimeny.com/summercamps camps@sportimeny.com SPORTIME’s Summer Camps offer children ages 3-16 a great combination of sports instruction and games, swimming, arts and crafts, and exciting special events. Camp activities include age- and level-appropriate tennis, soccer, softball, basketball, flag football, and floor hockey. Campers learn fundamental skills, participate in competitive drills, and learn game strategies.

Studio E Art Classes

565 Route 25A, Miller Place 631-744-4001 studioeartclass.com; studioeartclass.com/parties; studioeartclass.com/childrens-camps Studio E offers weekly camps for tweens (ages 9-12) and teens (ages 13-17). Topics vary by week and include pottery, landscape, portrait, and water color painting. Camps meet every week of the summer Tuesdays-Fridays. Camps are half-day with a pizza party every Friday! Camps taught by a certified art teacher.

Suffolk Y JCC Summer Camps @ HKC Henry Kaufman Camp Ground

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.org; info@usdan.org Usdan, the nation’s preeminent arts day camp offers more than 70 programs of study in the arts including visual art, dance, music, theater, writing, and arts-related fields such as nature, chess, and recreational arts. Students ages 4-18 are immersed in art and nature and surrounded by friends who share their interests and enthusiasm.

Winston Preparatory School

75 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-462-9800 x136 syjcc.com; mwaddell@syjcc.com Junior, tween, and sports camps at the Henry Kaufmann Camp Grounds are offered for campers in pre-K to ninth grade. Beautiful 350-acre camp grounds, four-pool swimming complex, zip lines, ropes course, golf range, and sports fields available. Individual camp programs to choose from with age-appropriate activities and trips. Create the perfect summer experience!

30 Deforest Road, Dix Hills 212-719-5598 x2213 winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/li liadmissions@winstonprep.edu Winston Prep’s Individualized Summer Enrichment Program provides students in fourth-12th grades with the unique opportunity to participate in an individually designed program aimed to enhance academic skills and foster independence. The program is designed to develop language, encoding and decoding, reading comprehension, writing, math, test preparation, organization, and time management skills.

TACSY Summer Theater Camp

YMCA of Long Island

74 Hauppauge Road, Commack 631-462-9800 syjcc.com mwaddell@syjcc.org Campers in first-ninth grades, study voice, acting, and dance with industry professionals and are encouraged to challenge themselves with electives such as sketch comedy, playwriting, and stage makeup.

TACSY offers daily swim, tennis, basketball, and other activities. In each four-week session, campers perform a fully produced musical and attend a Broadway show.

Thomas School of Horsemanship

Summer Day Camp 250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840 tshcamp.com; tsh@tshcamp.com We offer campers ages 3-15 daily activities of a traditional day camp plus a full riding program. Our Leadership Training program for ages 13-15 enjoy all camp activities while adding more responsibilities with horses and younger campers, freedom with their schedules, and unique learning opportunities including pre-vet care and lifeguard training.

855-2YMCALI (962254) Locations: Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org/camp.; camp@ymcali.org YMCA of Long Island Summer Day Camp offers the best of adventure, athletics, aquatics, creative arts, and lots of trips for ages 12-16!

New: archery tag, GameLand, challenger courses, freestyle specials, and STEAM activities, transportation, and lunch plan. Register online now at ymcali.org/camp. Discounts expire April 30, 2019. Awesome adventures await!

music filmmaking dance theatre art digital media special effects

ARTS OPEN HOUSE ool Sch h g i H

LIHSA offers a unique opportunity for all Nassau & Suffolk County students Grades 9-12 as part of their free, public high school education to talented young artists.

The Summer Arts Academy accepts students Grades 6-12.

Apr 13 Open House • 11 AM - 2 PM 239 Cold Spring Road, Syosset 516.622.5678 longislandartshighschool.org

LONG ISLAND

HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE

ARTS

LIHSA is a program of Nassau BOCES

Your Search for the Perfect Summer Camp is over!

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

Young People’s Day Camps Suffolk 631-476-3330 ypdc.com YPDC of Suffolk is licensed by the NYS Health Department and accredited by the ACA for your child’s safety. Free doorto-door transportation, with activities supervised by licensed teachers and administrators.

Superior camper-to-counselor ratio. YPDC is fun, educational, diversified, and convenient.

Keeping children smiling and parents at ease since 1972.

Camp locations across Long Island, including uding in the Hampt Hamptons, tons nss 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

REGISTER FOR OUR SPRING BREAK CAMP - www.SportimeNY.com/schoolbreak

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Camp Loyaltown camployaltown.org

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East End Arts eastendarts.org

Long Island Golf Camps longislandgolfcamps.com

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Destination Science: The FUN Science Day Camp For Curious Kids 5-11! destinationscience.org

Gersh Academy at West Hills Day Camp gershsummerprogram.com

Travel

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Extreme STEAM Science Kids extremesteamcamp.com

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Horseback Riding

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Camp W Day Camp campwdaycamp.com

Competitive Sports

Music, Theater, & Dance

STEAM & Academic Enrichment

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Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

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FLEXIBLE WEEKLY SESSIONS FSCAMPS.COM

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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Professional services

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

DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS NORTH SHORE ORTHODONTICS

50 Route 111, Suite 214, Smithtown 631-265-3435 nsorthodontics.com Dr. Craig Smith and his team at North Shore Orthodontics offer a variety of orthodontic services, including American Orthodontics Mini Brackets, Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen™, A.O. Radiance translucent brackets, and teeth whitening.

SUFFOLK PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

8 Medical Drive, Port Jefferson Station 631-928-8585 6144 Route 25 A, Suite D20, Wading River 631-929-7575 suffolkpediatricdentistry.com infoportjeff@suffolkpediatricdentistry.com For 40 years, we have provided dental care that’s friendly, gentle, and compassionate. We provide preventive and comprehensive treatment for infants, children, and adolescents including sedation and general anesthesia dentistry.

We strive to help our patients develop good oral hygiene habits, and beautiful, healthy smiles.

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 lispeechandmyo.com Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Nassau: 516-216-1791 Queens: 718-640-6767 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.

PEDIATRIC IMMEDIATE CARE

150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337) 698 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn 718-389-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids

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come first. State-of-the-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted.

legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate.

All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost.

STONY BROOK CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC VOIDING IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (VIP)

LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C.

24 Research Way, East Setauket 631-444-6270 A comprehensive program for children and teens with bed-wetting and other urinary and bowel issues. Our experts offer innovative, age-appropriate solutions along with compassionate care.

534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s 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.

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE LINDA SPRINGER, INVESTMENT ADVISER REPRESENTATIVE WITH PRIMERICA ADVISORS

1600 Expressway Drive S., Hauppauge 631-235-1749 cell 631-361-6271 office primerica.com/lindaspringer linda.springer@primerica.com Linda Springer, an investment adviser representative with Primerica Advisors has proudly served the community in financial literacy education and team training and development for more than 20 years. Contact us at 631-235-1749 (cell) or 631-361-6271(office).

FOOD & NUTRITION LITTLE VICKY’S

631-338-1722 littlevickys.com; littlevickys@yahoo.com Little Vicky’s products are small batched with only the finest, natural ingredients. Real food, no junk. Products include Honey Butter, Garlic Honey, and Honey Lemonade sold at all Best Markets throughout Long Island and select Stop & Shops.

FOSTER CARE & ADOPTION BERKSHIRE FARM CENTER AND SERVICES FOR YOUTH

535 Broad Hollow Road, Suite B30, Melville 631-420-4444 berkshirefarm.org Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth helps children find safety and comfort in the homes of foster parents.

Become a foster parent and give the gift of family!

LEGAL SERVICES ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN 250 W. 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 can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs

LICE FAIRY LICEMOTHERS

2463 S. 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 nontoxic. Treatments include two free re-checks. Whether or not you use our service, we are here to help you.

SPECIAL NEEDS ALTERNATIVES FOR CHILDREN

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 S. 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, L.L.C.

10 Janet Court, Nesconset 631-617-1958 childbehaviorconsulting.com lisa@childbehaviorconsulting.com Providing education, tools, and knowledge by 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 250 W. 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 can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost.

DR. STEVE IMBER, PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS

Serving Nassau and Suffolk counties as well as the five boroughs of NYC 61-43 186th St., Fresh Meadows 516-273-1961 Sprout Building 166 Valley St., Providence, RI 401-421-4004 dr-imber.com; scimber1@aol.com Dr. Imber has more than 40 years of experience consulting, evaluating, and advocating for children, adolescents, and adults with various disabilities including autism (e.g.

Asperger’s syndrome), attention deficit disorders, intellectual disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, and learning disabilities.

LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C.

534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com; brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s 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.

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

Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh,

LOOKING FOR

GREAT

and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Nassau: 516-216-1791 Queens: 718-640-6767 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.

ning 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 kindergarten to 12th grade with Catholic Entrance Exam Prep, SAT, Regents, or daily schoolwork.

MARRA & GLICK APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSTS

ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITY-YOUTH ENRICHMENT LEARNING CENTER

1737 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 1, Islandia 631-479-2900 mg-aba.com Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to serve people with autism spectrum disorders in our center-based programs, at school, in the home, and in the community.

St. Patrick Church, 280 E Main St., Smithtown 631-724-1261 stpatsyouth.com; spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick Youth Enrichment and Learning Center provides programs for your child ages 1½ years to sixth grade. A faith-based program offers a loving, caring environment.

THE TOOTH PILLOW DENTISTRY

SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER OF HUNTINGTON

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.

SPECIALTY APPAREL GCH DESIGNS GENEVIEVE C. HASEMANN, SEAMSTRESS

516-983-0427 genevievescustomheirlooms@gmail.com Specializing in custom-made, special occasion, children’s christening, baptismal, communion, and flower girl clothing, hair accessories, and floral arrangements.

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-win-

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

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, and 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

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 John Hopkins CTY and SAT testing center.

Local seamstress with greater than 45 years sewing experience is taking orders toward custom made, one of a kind couture special occasion dresses/ rompers and gowns. Wedding gown conversions or new fabric is used. Very reasonable rates offered. Labor plus materials costs. Call today to schedule your design session.

Specializing in... Custom-Made Special Occasion Children’s Christening, Baptismal, Communion and Flower Girl Clothing, Hair Accessories and Floral Arrangements

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

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

Call 516-983-0427 Located in Bayport, NY Genevievescustomheirlooms@gmail.com

LongIslandParent 59

LOOKING FOR

Saving money on a

OPEN HOUSES 2019 Camp Harbor

17 Three Sisters Road, Saint James 631-584-5555 campharbor.org Join us for an open house on May 1 from 5-7pm or June 1 from 10am-12pm. Camp runs from June 27-Aug. 17.

6 from 11am-12pm, for first-second grades and 12:30-1:30pm, for third-fifth grades.

Additional tours available weekdays from 10am-3pm, year-round and weekends from 11am-2pm, February–June.

Gersh Academy at West Hills Day Camp

121 Wolf Hill Road, Melville 631-692-6222 campwdaycamp.com info@campwdaycamp.com Join us at our open house Saturday, April 13, from 12-2pm to learn about our camp program. Enjoy soccer, basketball, karate, face painting, making slime, a caricaturist, a magician, prizes, and giveaways!

(for children on the autism spectrum) 21 Sweet Hollow Road, Huntington 631-427-6700 gershsummerprogram.com; westhillsdaycamp.com/wp/programs-by-age/ gersh-academy-whdc info@westhillscamp.com Open House and Spring Carnival on April 13 from 1-3pm. Join the West Hills family for a day of fun with carnival rides, bounce houses, slides, and face painting.

Camps ‘R’ Us

Kenwal Day Camp

Camp W - Where Friendships are Made

Where Summer Vacation Is Our Job Locations in: Baldwin, Bellmore, East Rockaway, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Saint James, Syosset, Valley Stream, and West Islip 516-935-CAMP (2267) campsrus.org/openhouse info@campsrus.org Join us for an open house at Camps ‘R’ Us West Islip on Saturday, April 13 from 10am12pm and Camps ‘R’ Us Saint James on Saturday, April 27 from 10am-12pm.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org info@cshfishhatchery.org Open House and Spring Festival, April 27, from 10am-4:30pm. Bring the family! Enjoy kid’s fishing, food, music, petting zoo, castle bouncer, games, environmental exhibitors, and live animal encounters.

Cooking With Stars Camp

450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-499-8580 parkshoredaycamp.com info@parkshoredaycamp.com Open house and free class with Chef Paula, April 13 from 11am-12pm for first-second grades, and 12:30-1:30pm for third-fifth grades. Additional tours available weekdays from 10am-3pm, year-round, and weekends from 11am-2pm, February–June.

Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp

3186 Sound Ave., Riverhead 516-433-7970 x11 ccenassau.org lfg38@cornell.edu Visit one of our open house dates on April 6, May 4, or May 18 from 10am-1pm.

Extreme STEAM Science Kids

450 Deer Park Road Dix Hills 631-499-8580 extremesteamcamp.com info@extremesteamscience.com Open house and free robotic class on April

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

100 Drexel Ave., Melville 631-694-3399 kenwaldaycamp.com kenwaloffice@kenwaldaycamp.com Visit Kenwal to meet with our directors and tour our beautiful 20-acre campgrounds.

Sundays from 12-3pm, through June, or call for a personal tour. Lock in discounted rates through Summer 2021!

Kids Country Day Camp

37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mount Sinai 631-331-5351 kidscountrydaycamp.com Join us for a Kids Country Day Camp and Kids of Mount Sinai school open house April 27, May 18, and June 15 from 11am-2pm.

Knox School Summer Adventures

Long Island Whole Child Academy School for Twice Exceptional Learning

175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville 347-668-3676 liwholechild.org; ericher@liwholechild.org Call to schedule your private, personal tour.

Meet our head of school, and dyslexia, academic, and clinical faculty. RSVP required for private tours and open houses.

Park Shore Country Day Camp and School

450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-499-8580 parkshoredaycamp.com info@parkshoredaycamp.com Tours are available Monday–Friday from 10am3pm year-round and Saturdays, and Sundays, 11am-2pm, February–June. Call to confirm a date and time for your tour. We look forward to meeting you!

Smithtown Christian School

1 Higbie Drive, Smithtown 631-265-3334 learnwithscs.org Smithtown Christian School and Pre-School Open House on Monday, April 15 from 7–8:30pm. Meet our administrators and learn why SCS stands apart from the rest!

Thomas School of Horsemanship

Summer Day Camp 250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840 tshcamp.com; tsh@tshcamp.com A traditional day camp with a full riding program!

We are passionate about children having fun-filled days while learning some of life’s most important lessons. Call to schedule a personal tour.

541 Long Beach Road St. James 631-686-1600 x414 knoxschool.org/summer-programs/summer-adventures ndezenzo@knoxschool.org Join us for an open house on May 11 from 10am-1pm.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

Long Island High School for the Arts

Winston Preparatory School

Summer Arts Academy-grades sixth-12th 239 Cold Spring Road, Syosset 516-622-5678 nassauboces.org/lihsa LIHSA offers a unique opportunity for students in Nassau and Suffolk counties students ninth to 12th grades. Open house held April 13 from 11am-2pm.

Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp

Nassau and Suffolk locations 516-238-4586 livoyagersdaycamp.com livoyagersdaycamp@gmail.com Open house April 6 and 7 from 1-3pm.

Receive $100 off tuition! Learn about our unique summer camp experience for children 4-14, offering amazing activities and fun-filled days of recreation.

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.org/visit; info@usdan.org Join us for an open house Sundays, April 28 and May 19 from 11am-2pm. The campus is yours to visit and explore. Receive a chance to “win” a tuition discount.

30 Deforest Road, Dix Hills 212-719-5598 x2213 winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/li liadmissions@winstonprep.edu Winston Prep is a highly individualized setting for third to 12th grade students with specific learning differences. Open house on Tuesday, April 2 at 6:30pm, and Thursday, April 11 at 9:15am.

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (962254) Locations: Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org/camp. camp@ymcali.org Come join the YMCA of Long Island for Summer Day Camp Open House Saturday, April 6 from 10am-12pm or Tuesday, April 30 from 7pm-8pm. Visit a branch near you.

raising kids ad index NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! adoption / foster care Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth ........................................................... 20

birthday / party services Bounce U - Farmingdale .......................... 45 Karts Indoor Raceway ............................... 49 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center ......................................................... 49 Long Island Ducks ...................................... 47 Long Island Explorium ................................ 45 Long Island Nets ......................................... 47 Sportime ...................................................... 55 Studio E Art Classes..................................... 49

camps Camp Huntington ...................................... 32 Camp Loyaltown ....................................... 33 Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery ............ 41 Future Stars - Old Westbury ....................... 57 Great Strides Long Island .......................... 49 iD Tech Camps ........................................... 11 Kids Country Day Camp ........................... 53 LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................ 53 Long Island Explorium ................................ 45 Nassau Boces Educational Foundation .................................................. 55 Park Shore Counrty Day Camp & Preschool ....................................................... 7 Sportime ...................................................... 55 Studio E Art Classes..................................... 49 Thomas School of Horsemanship Riding Academy & Summer Camp ..................... 50 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts.............. 2 Winston Prepatory School - Long Island .. 32 YMCA of Long Island ........................... 14, 15 Young People’s Day Camps - Suffolk ........ 5

child care / day care

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech................................................... 23, 51 Long Island Whole Child Academy ......... 31 Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts .19

play spaces

education

Diocese of RVC .......................................... 64 Holy Angels Regional School .................... 51

Alternatives for Children ............................ 32 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool ............................................... 22, 51 Diocese of RVC .......................................... 64 Fusion Education Group - Woodbury ........ 3 Holy Angels Regional School .................... 51 Huntington Learning Center ..................... 21 Kids Country Day Camp ........................... 53 Law Offices of Brad H Rosken ................... 33 LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................ 53 Long Island Whole Child Academy ......... 31 Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts ....................................................... 19 Nassau Boces Educational Foundation .................................................. 55 Winston Prepatory School - Long Island ........................................................... 30

family entertainment / events / outings Bounce U - Farmingdale .......................... 45 Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery ............ 41 Karts Indoor Raceway ............................... 49 Live Nation - NYCB Theatre at Westbury ..................................................... 41 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center ......................................................... 49 Long Island Ducks ...................................... 47 Long Island Explorium ................................ 45 Long Island Nets ......................................... 47 NYCB Live ...................................................... 9 Patchogue Theatre ...................................... 9

fitness

Alternatives for Children ............................ 32 Kids Country Day Camp ........................... 53

Sportime ...................................................... 55 YMCA of Long Island ........................... 14, 15

classes

health

Great Strides Long Island .......................... 49 LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................ 53 Sportime ...................................................... 55 Studio E Art Classes..................................... 49 YMCA of Long Island ........................... 14, 15

Pediatric Immediate Care................... 27, 51 Tooth Pillow Dentistry (The) .................. 29, 51

home services

dance

legal services

GCH Designs and Services ........................ 59

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts.............. 2

Andrew M. Cohen Esq ............................... 16

developmental

music

Alternatives for Children ............................ 32 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool ............................................... 22, 51 Child Behavior Consulting LLC ................. 31 CTREE - Horses changing lives .................. 26 Hagedorn Little Village School ................. 25

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts.............. 2

performing arts / acting Nassau Boces Educational Foundation .................................................. 55 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts.............. 2

Bounce U - Farmingdale .......................... 45 Karts Indoor Raceway ............................... 49

religious

special events Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery ............ 41 Fusion Education Group - Woodbury ........ 3 GCH Designs and Services ........................ 59 Live Nation - NYCB Theatre at Westbury ..................................................... 41 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center ......................................................... 49 Long Island Ducks ...................................... 47 NYCB Live ...................................................... 9 Patchogue Theatre ...................................... 9

special needs Alternatives for Children ............................ 32 Andrew M. Cohen Esq ............................... 16 Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth ........................................................... 20 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool ............................................... 22, 51 Camp Huntington ...................................... 32 Camp Loyaltown ....................................... 33 Child Behavior Consulting LLC ................. 31 CTREE - Horses changing lives .................. 26 Great Strides Long Island .......................... 49 Hagedorn Little Village School ................. 25 Huntington Learning Center ..................... 21 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech................................................... 23, 51 Karts Indoor Raceway ............................... 49 Law Offices of Brad H Rosken ................... 33 Long Island Whole Child Academy ......... 31 Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts ....................................................... 19 Pediatric Immediate Care................... 27, 51 Tooth Pillow Dentistry (The) .................. 29, 51 Winston Prepatory School - Long Island ........................................................... 30

sports CTREE - Horses changing lives .................. 26 Future Stars - Old Westbury ....................... 57 Great Strides Long Island .......................... 49 Long Island Ducks ...................................... 47 Long Island Nets ......................................... 47 Sportime ...................................................... 55

theater Patchogue Theatre ...................................... 9

tutors Huntington Learning Center ..................... 21

LongIslandParent 61

SpecialParent Courtesy Stella L. Spanakos

raising kids voices

I Will Not Fail This Child ›› How I turned a tragedy into opportunities for young adults with special needs By Stella L Spanakos

W

hen people ask what it’s like to have a child with special needs, my response is: It’s like dark chocolate, bittersweet. My beautiful, healthy, 9-pound baby boy was diagnosed with autism at age 3, from that day forward a revolving door of therapists came to our home every day until 6pm.

To make matters worse, Nicholas never developed speech and started having seizures at age 17.

When Nicholas was young, we wanted to believe he would “outgrow” autism, or science would find a “cure” for the diagnosis. But, as the years passed and reality set in, we started dealing better with the “what is” and “what needs to happen.”

Three years before Nicholas was going to transition from high school to the real world, I started looking toward the next chapter of his life. What were his options? Day-hab, residential, supported employment? I visited many programs but started crying when I returned to my car after the tour. A tsunami of young adults on the autism spectrum would be transitioning in three years, with more going forward every year and New York state was most definitely not prepared.

To discuss Nicholas’ future with my husband was painful. He could not accept that we had to carve out a different future for our son; one without a driver’s license, college, marriage, children, and grandchildren, but one that needed much thought and financial planning. Autism broke my husband’s heart, and then my heart was broken for a second time on June 7, 2010 when my husband boarded a business flight to Vegas, suffered a massive heart attack, and died at the age of 55.

Kobi Yamada wrote a book called What Do You Do with a Chance? The moral of the story is, when given a chance, you always take it “because it just might be the start of something incredible.” And that’s precisely what I did.

I had an opportunity to make the worst day of my life become

Stella L. Spanakos with her son Nicholas, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3

the beginning of something incredible to help Nicholas, his classmates, and many others. I decided to close my husband’s business, sell everything, and use the proceeds from his life insurance to start the Nicholas Center and Spectrum Designs Foundation, both located in Port Washington. The Nicholas Center supports individuals with autism to lead full and productive lives in the community. Spectrum Designs Foundation is an apparel customizing business, specializing in screen printing, DTG (Direct to Garment), and embroidery.

My co-founders, Nicole Sugrue and Patrick Bardsley, and I experimented with our first DTG machine in my barn and never looked back.

The relationship between the Nicholas Center and Spectrum Designs is the perfect example of how businesses can work with agencies to support employees with intellectual disabilities.

Eighty percent of individuals with disabilities are unemployed but very capable of work.

We started with both organizations in the same building, and one DTG machine printing 75 T-shirts a day. I used to pray that I could pay the bills and support our payroll during our first two years but as the saying goes: “build it and they will come,” and so they did.

At the close of 2018, just eight years after opening our doors, Nicholas Center serves 85 families with vocational and community experiences, and Spectrum Designs’ client list has grown to include Uber, Google, NYU Langone Medical Center, Northwell Health, St. John’s University Law School, Town of North Hempstead, and MTA Metro-North. Spectrum Designs has impacted the lives of 70 individuals and their families and created more than 15,000 paid hours of meaningful work for individuals with autism.

Stella L. Spanakos co-founded The Nicholas Center Ltd., where she is the director of development, and Spectrum Designs Foundation. For more information about the Nicholas Center and Spectrum Designs Foundation, or to help change the world “one t-shirt at a time,” visit nicholascenterusa.org or spectrumdesigns.org.

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April 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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After-School Activities

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

How to Manage Kids’ Schedules

What Makes a Good Mentor?

+ 174 Family

+ 130 Family

(see our calendar, p. 26)

(see our calendar, p. 32)

Events

Events

Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

Where-To Guide: Berry Picking

•

Dinosaur Fun

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

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

LI Parent Back Cover Mar 2017:Layout 1 4/16/18 3:18 PM Page 1

What’s different about a Catholic education?

Our methods evolve, but our message is constant.

While we are faithful to the mission of Jesus Christ, our schools are technological marvels. Wi-Fi enabled buildings, SMART Boards® in classrooms, computer labs filled with the latest technologies, iPads® and Chromebooks™ for students as young as preschoolers, science labs and videoconferencing. We know how to engage today’s digital native student.

To learn more about Long Island’s Catholic Elementary Schools and to find a school near you, call 516-678-5800 x 258 or visit us online at www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org.