Suffolk Parent June 2019 by City Guide NY

LongIsland SUFFOLK EDITION

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM JUNE 2019

Summer A Z 26 ways to have a blast with your kids Plus, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still time to register for summer programs!

Is Your Teen Ready for a Job? Learning to Live with a Picky Eater

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

LongIslandParent

Happy. Healthy. Loved. These are the dreams we have for our children. So we cherish the moments when little giggles fill the room, imaginations take us on great adventures, and when it seems our hearts could burst with pride and love. Here and now, we’d stop time if we could. Because when kids are being kids, we all feel better.

Let’s get every child covered. If your child needs health insurance, Fidelis Care is just a call, click, or visit away.

Call: 1-888-FIDELIS Click: fideliscare.org/everychildcovered Visit: A Fidelis Care community office near you. Search for locations at fideliscare.org/offices

1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547)

TTY: 711

To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

Long Island Speech & Myofunctional Therapy 1-844-5-SPEECH

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Licensed Speech Pathologists & Myofunctional Therapists Specializing in the Treatment and Correction of:

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Specialized Specialized Therapy Therapy Approaches Approaches Including: Including PROMPT Therapy • Individual FEEDING Therapy Augmentative Communication Evaluations & Therapy

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contents table of

Original photo by ›› Big Apple Portraits (bigappleportraits.com) Clothing provided by Land’s End (landsend.com)

june 2019

Sun Protection 101

10 27

Precautions to protect you and your child’s skin from the harmful effects of UV rays

Family Activities Calendar

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

summer fun 13 20 22 36

Summer A to Z Is Your Teen Ready for a Job? Summer Fun Listings Camps at-a-Glance Chart

Time to Sell?

From kids’ rooms to bathrooms and the kitchen, easy solutions to keep your home clutter-free.

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 9 Fear of Carrots 10 Sun Protection 101 35 Meet the Health Care Professional 40 My Baby Hates Tummy Time 42 Professional Services 44 Party Central 45 Advertisers’ Index 46 LGBTQ+ Books for Kids

27 Family Activities Calendar

38 Why You Need an Emergency Fund 39 Time to Sell?

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 9 Learning to Live with a Picky Eater 13 Summer A to Z 20 Is Your Teen Ready for a Job? facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

WELCOME

TO YOUR NEW space to be healthy training ground

place to make new friends

room to learn & grow

destination for families SUMMER MEMBERSHIP PLANS

$0 joiner fee and special rates Join between May 1-June 16 Valid through 9/2 Terms and conditions apply. Visit ymcali.org

Huntington YMCA 60 Main Street Huntington, NY 11743 631.421.4242

YMCALI.org

HOME. Jorge Family Healthy Living Center OPENING JUNE 2019 LongIslandParent

raising kids editor’s note JUNE 2019 • Vol11 • No.1

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

Summer Daze

h, summer! With school vacation on the horizon and the start of camp quickly approaching, it’s the season our kids look forward to most. If your children are going to summer camp this year, or you’re still looking for the perfect dance, art, sports, or day camp, take a look the Camp Planner if you haven’t yet. It’s full of great advice to be the best camp parent possible—you won’t want to miss the best-kept secrets camp directors shared!—and local camp descriptions to find the right camp for your children. Read it at nymetroparents.com/campguide/longisland. On the other hand, if your children are spending their summer days at home, you might be wondering what the heck you’re going to do to keep them from repeating the dreaded “I’m bored!” multiple times a day. Turn to p. 13 for “Summer A to Z.” We searched the area for 26 things to do with your kids—from minor league baseball games and amusement parks to strawberry festivals and making your own ice cream—all so you can spend your time doing what’s most important: having fun with your children. If your kids have aged out of summer camp and are looking for something to do, a part-time job may be on their minds. But is your really teen ready to take on the responsibility? Check out the four questions to gauge job readiness on p. 20 to see if the time is right for your child to fill out applications. Here’s to a fun, relaxing summer! Katelin Walling Editorial Director

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling FEATURES EDITOR: Shana Liebman 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

ADVERTISING SALES

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, Merrill Sugarman Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy, Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents To Submit News: nymetroparents.com/submitnews

STATEN ISLAND PARENT

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

EDITOR/PUBLISHER: Roselle Farina-Hecht 718-494-1932

MOMMYBITES

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

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

OPERATIONS

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

PRODUCTION

Get Your 2019 Summer Camp Guide nymetroparents.com/campguide/longisland

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

MARKETING

ASSISTANT MARKETING MANAGER: Kristine Pulaski

FINANCE

CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

• 20 Lessons from Camp We Use Every Day • Camp Planning Timeline • What Camp Directors Wish Parents Knew • 8 Questions to Ask a Camp Director • Choosing a Camp for a Child with Special Needs • Is Your Child Ready for Sleepaway Camp? • 10 Things Counselors Wish Parents DIDN’T Do • Ready to Be a CIT?

Camp Directory • Open Houses • Camp Charts

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

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

King O’Rourke Presents

A refreshing rate! YOUTH/YOUNG ADULT SAVINGS†

Great South Bay Music Festival July 18, 19, 20 & 21, 2019

On the first $1,000 | Ages 0 - 20†

Visit lovebethpage.com, or stop by your local branch.

Sunday July 21, @ 12pm

*Annual Percentage Yields (APYs) effective 05/25/2019 and is subject to change, including after account opening, without notice. 4.00% APY and dividend rate are earned on balances up to $1,000; balances higher than $1,000 earn 0.35% APY and dividend rate. Fees or other conditions could reduce earnings. Certain restrictions may apply. Additional verification may be requested for Youth Savings or Young Adult Savings Account opening. Program and terms subject to change. At the age of 18, Youth Savings Accounts are automatically converted to Young Adult Savings Accounts. At the age of 21, Young Adult Savings Accounts are automatically converted to a basic savings account. †Youth Savings Account - ages 17 and under. Young Adult Savings Account - ages 18-20.

Huge KidZone Tent & Stage • Arts & Crafts Educational Children’s Performers

Child Day Care Center Integrated Nursery School Classes Early Intervention | Preschool Special Eduation (Birth – 3yrs)

(3 – 5 yrs)

• Evaluations Birth-6yrs • Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy • Service Coordination & Family Support Services • Developmentally Appropriate & Safe Playground • Full Time Nurse Alternatives for Children is approved / licensed by the NYS DOH, NYSED, NYS OCFS, Nassau Suffolk County Divisions of Services for Children with Special Needs. To refer a child suspected of a developmental delay, call Suffolk or Nassau County DOH for children 0-3 yrs; or the child’s school district for children 3-5 yrs. Services for eligible children are provided at home, in the community, at daycare or at one of our locations as determined by the child’s IEP or IFSP, at no out-of-pocket cost to families. If services are delivered in a childcare/community setting that requires a fee, the family is responsible for any associated child care costs. Funding for these programs is through NYSED, NYS DOH, and Suffolk/Nassau DOH.

Alternatives For Children alternativesforchildren.org

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ALL DAY SATURDAY & SUNDAY

After The Imagination Movers, Stay For The Day Also Appearing:

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www.GreatSouthBayMusicFestival.com LongIslandParent

Courtesy Hofstra University’s Sports Journalism and Broadcasting Institu te

raising kids new places, new programs

Summer Sports Journalism Program to Welcome NBC Sports Host

Students of Hofstra University’s Sport s Journalism and Broadcasting Institute will practice in Hofstra’s television and audio recording studio s.

Who: Child Behavior Consulting What’s New: Full-time services, which are scheduled to begin July 1. Child Behavior Consulting provides behavioral services for children who struggle with behavioral, academic, and/or social-emotional challenges and need support in learning how to regulate their actions. Staff works directly with parents and their kids who are strong-spirited and have ADHD, executive functioning deficit, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, or mood disorders through individual workshops and professional development. During CBC’s private, 1-hour consultations, kids and their families are taught hands-on, practical strategies so they can leave feeling empowered and ready to learn how to focus and make positive choices. Want More Info: 631-617-1956; info@childbehaviorconsulting.com; childbehaviorconsulting.com

Courtesy Child

Child Behavioral Practice to Offer Full-Time Services

Behavior Consu

lting

Who: Hofstra University’s Sports Journalism and Broadcasting Institute What’s New: Liam McHugh, host of NBC Sports’ Football Night in America, is slated to join the summer program’s staff. The program is a six-week introduction to sports journalism for ages 12-18. Classes include everything from Introduction to Sportscasting to Sports Radio Hosting. Students will have the opportunity to test out their skills in Hofstra’s two fully equipped studios for television and audio recording. Guest speakers this summer include co-host of ESPN’s GameNight Freddie Coleman, Kenny Albert of FOX Sports and MSG Network, and Mike Breen of ABC Sports, ESPN, and New York Knicks play-by-play broadcaster. The summer program is scheduled to begin July 2. Want More Info: 255 Hofstra University, Hempstead; Michael Chisena, program director: 516-563-5909 or michael.chisena@hofstra.edu

r , president and founde Lisa Navarra, M.S. Ed. a series ed nch lau g, ltin nsu of Child Behavior Co ee workshops for her thr of author visits and -K— ed to teach kids in pre ign des ks boo e tur pic ation tegies for self-regul stra l cia cru des gra sixth pt. nce f-co sel e itiv and pos

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Marra & Glick Applied Behav

Who: Marra & Glick Applied Behavior Analysts What’s New: The New Hyde Park location, which is slated to open this month. The new center-based location offers behavior intervention services using the principles of applied behavior analysis, including an interim alternative placement for home instruction for students with autism spectrum disorders. The New Hyde Park location will offer early intervention and preschool programming to children ages 18 months old and older. Every learner at Marra & Glick receives individualized services, therapists, and strategies to give individuals the opportunity to unlock their full potential. The center is open Monday-Friday, 9am-7pm, and Saturday, 9am-3pm. There is also a location in Islandia located at 1737 Veterans Memorial Highway. Want More Info: 2341 New Hyde Park Road, New Hyde Park; 631-479-2900; mg-aba.com

ior Analysts

Behavior Analyst to Expand to New Hyde Park

Marra & Glick aims to help their stude nts transition into their recommended school placements.

raising kids voices

Shana Liebman

A Fear of Carrots ››

How I’m learning to live with my picky eater By Shana Liebman

e’ve all met this kid before. He only eats pasta with butter and plain oatmeal. Or Cheerios and french fries. Before I had children, it was impossible for me to imagine that I—a home cook, a frequent restaurant-goer, a lifetime subscriber to Gourmet—would call this kind of kid my own. But as fate would have it, I have a picky eater. His name is Nate, and he is adorable, smart, funny, warm, creative, talented, and a terrible, no good, very bad eater. His staples are hot dogs, cheese sticks, and pasta without sauce. He refuses all vegetables and fruits and anything slightly outside his comfort zone. Which is everything. It started when he was a baby (he was revolted by his first piece of avocado) and at age 4, he would rather forgo TV than eat a snap pea. I have gone through the stages of grief: 1. No way not me! 2. I can change him with my clever cooking. 3. I will punish him until he changes. 4. I don’t care. Let him starve. 5. I cracked the code! 6. I don’t care. Let him starve. 7. Help! For years, family dinners went something like this: 6:15pm: Nate refuses to even try the cauliflower with cheese sauce or hummus and carrots. He asks for ketchup. 6:18pm: Nate eats four strands of pasta and asks to be excused. We say no and he slides off his chair onto the floor, then tries to stick forks into water bottles. We tell Nate to join us; he cries. Nate goes to his room. We eat his dinner. 6:25pm: I clean up a million dishes. In 2014, Nate ate a carrot, and I got so excited that I served carrots with every meal and as a prerequisite for every treat. That is until Nate, under the adoring gaze of his grandparents, refused his one baby carrot. I pushed and threatened and 30 minutes later when he finally finished the tiny carrot, he made a weird gagging noise, came over to me, and threw it up in my lap. It wasn’t a lot of vomit—but it was the whole baby carrot, the one I made him eat, in regurgitated flecks on my lap. (My husband Michael and I later noted that this was a pretty brilliant move that we now refer to as “throwing up the carrot”—when a kid makes it almost impossible to continue to make him do something.) By then I was fully in stage eight, denial, so I soldiered on. I

Nate, the picky eater who prefers hot dogs, cheese sticks, and plain pasta

tried all the tricks, including instituting schedules for meals and snacks, as Dina Rose recommends in her brilliant book It’s Not About the Broccoli. We tried mandatory tasting to no avail, and I had little success with the hide-the-veggies approach to recipes a la Jessica Seinfeld. My banana-peanut butter-spinach muffins were bland and dense. Nobody liked them…all 48 of them. There was one that was successful—Melissa Clark’s Carroty Mac and Cheese. Then in 2015, a study published in the Journal of Pediatrics claimed picky eaters had a higher tendency toward mental health problems: “Their sensory experience is more intense in the areas of taste, texture, and visual cues. And their internal experience may be more intense, so they have stronger feelings. They’re sensitive kids who may be anxious or a little depressed; so cutting up fruits into funny shapes is not going to do the trick for these kids.” While I hope Nate never suffers from anxiety or depression, the study hit home. I’d long noticed Nate’s aversion to foods was not remedied with games or tricks. It goes deep. Something about a texture or smell will completely disgust him. While I’ve fantasized that he will turn into a “super taster” or foodie with highly developed senses who actually excels at all things culinary, it’s probably more likely this extreme sensitivity will apply to other aspects of his life. Also, maybe this whole picky eating thing was beyond his control. Around then I heard a PBS investigation into the science of picky eating that seemed to support that theory. “Biologists have discovered that, out of the thousands of genes in our DNA, there’s one that determines if we like the taste of some healthy greens or if we can’t stand them,” explained NOVA host Neil DeGrasse Tyson. In other words: “It is biologically predetermined. They are innocent in this accusatory world.” Both of these studies urged parents to create positive experiences around eating. Family dinner should be more about family than dinner. And this is ultimately what became our solution. Lay off him. Make sure he gets a minimum of nutrients, gently urge him to try new foods and talk about something else. Five years later, he’s still a picky eater but at least we now eat dinner without tears. LongIslandParent

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raising kids in the know

Sun Protection 101

›› By Melissa Wickes

id you know it only takes about 7 minutes for the receptors in your skin cells to become fully saturated with Vitamin D? With summer approaching, your family may be itching to get outside. However, it’s important to protect you and your kids from the harm the sun can cause, including greater risk for skin cancer and a variety of rashes. Kenneth T. Kircher, D.O., FAOCD, dermatologist on the medical staff of HealthAlliance Hospital in Kingston, shares five things to know to best protect your family. Use zinc oxide sunscreen. When it comes to sunscreen, there are two main categories: physical blocks and chemical blocks. While chemical blocks absorb the harmful UV rays from the sun, physical blocks cause those rays to bounce off your skin. Both are useful, but Dr. Kircher recommends zinc oxide (a physical block) because as a naturally occurring mineral, zinc is thought to be safer to use on small children. Titanium dioxide is another physical block, while everything else is a chemical block. Sunscreens won’t harm you. A recent study by the Food and Drug Administration shows that an amount of chemicals is absorbed in the body when chemical blocks are used. However, the main chemicals in those sunscreens are not harmful to the body. The FDA’s study was simply conducted to find out more safety data, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The ingredients used most frequently in sunscreens in the U.S. are safe. The higher the SPF, the better. You’ve likely heard that an SPF higher than 50 does not make a difference. While the increase in protection is quite small once you go above 50, it does make a difference. “When [a brand tests] a sunscreen, they put them on way thicker than you would wear it,” Dr. Kircher says. With SPF 50, you may actually only be getting an SPF of 30-35, he explains.

$300 Discount With this Ad Horizon Orthodontics 1150 Portion Rd Holtsville, NY 11742 (631) 698-2424

Facebook page @horizonorthodontics 10

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Limit sun exposure. When avoiding the sun is unavoidable, wearing a rash guard in the water, a hat, SPF-protected clothing, or even a regular cotton T-shirt can protect your skin. Be cognizant of the amount of time you’re in the sun. A sunburn is an inflammatory process that will take hours to manifest, says Dr. Kircher, so you may not see the effects until later. He recommends covering up infants younger than 6 months as much as possible using clothing. This includes sunglasses which should have a UVA/UVB blocking label. Reapplication time depends on your activity. Sunscreens now provide a water-resistance time factor on the label. However, this is all relative to your activity. “If your child is in the waves, you will have to reapply more frequently than if they’re just walking around on a cool day,” Dr. Kircher says.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

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AUGUST 2

AUGUST 9-24

be your summer destination!

Let Celebrate Innovation & Invention for All Ages!

Don’t miss these Summer Camp! exciting 8-12 events! A WeekJuly of Maker Faire July 22-26

Superheroes Scream STEAM

August 5-9

Make and Play

Saturday, June 8, 2019 10am - 5pm

August 12-16

Green’s the Way to Go

August 19-23

at the Long Island Explorium PJ Village Center • Harborfront Park

Project Planet

B U Y YO U R TICKETS NOW!

Power Up the Planet

Early Bird Rates End June 2. Produced by:

August 26-30

Get 10% off if you register for 2 or more days or campers (Discount Code: SUM10%). All Explorium members receive 15% off (SUM15%).

All CAMPERS will get a FREE student membership to the Explorium for the summer! Free membership starts as soon as you register.

Cost: $65 per day.

Time: 9 - 12 pm. Nut & allergy free snack included.

To register for these camps or for more information, call 631-331-3277 or visit www.longislandexplorium.org and https://easternlongisland.makerfaire.com/ LongIslandParent 11

SUMMER ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

UTUR

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LEARN TO PLAY

Ages 3-12yrs 2-8 Weeks Flexible Day/Week Scheduling Full Day 9am-4pm Early Drop-off & Late Pick-up Half Day Program Also Available (Ages 3-5yrs.)

●Athletic Fields ●Sports Courts ●Playgrounds ●Ninja Course ●Dance ●Karate ●Foam Parties ●Pedal Kart Track

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June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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

Summer A Work your way through the alphabet for 26 fun things to do with your kids this season!

By Katelin Walling and Shana Liebman

ith school coming to a close, you may be wondering what the heck you’re going to do to keep your kids entertained if they’re not going to summer camp this year (or they’re going for a week or two). We’ve got you covered! From boat rides and visits to the zoo to picnicking, watching movies outside, and a trip back in time to an Elizabethan England village, you’ll find 26 ideas for summer fun. Whether you start at A, Z, or somewhere in the middle, make sure to go through the whole alphabet for a summer of fun right here at home!

LongIslandParent 13

Anchors aweigh!

Don your sea legs for a 90-minute adventure aboard Long Island Aquarium’s Atlantis Explorer (longislandaquarium.com). The boat tour takes you down the Peconic River into Flanders Bay while you learn about the environment and the Peconic Estuary. Plus, a combo ticket allows you to explore the aquarium and see fascinating sea creatures of all kinds.

Build sand castles at Heckscher State Park in East Islip/Great River. In addition to the beach on the Great South Bay, it offers biking, boat launch sites, fishing, food stands, nature trails, picnic tables, playground, playing field, and showers. For more information, and more nearby beaches, visit nymetroparents.com/beaches.

Carry out a

random act of kindness!

Inspire your kids to hold the door open for a stranger, help an elderly person with his or her groceries, or pick up litter. Performing random acts of kindness can be contagious, especially when you turn it into a game. That’s where Boom Boom! Cards Family Edition ($14.99), which includes 26 RAKs, comes in handy. Each deck has a unique code that you register at boomboomcards.com. After performing an act of kindness, log in and tell your fellow “agents of altruism” about it; then pass along that particular card to another family. Via the website, you can track your friends’ acts of kindness, too.

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Day trip, anyone?

If you’re itching for an adventure and your family vacation is still weeks away, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled itineraries for the best day trips (all within 150 miles of NYC) with your family, whether you want to explore the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, Mystic Seaport in Mystic, CT, or the Crayola Experience in Easton, PA. Check it out at nymetroparents.com/day-trips.

Eat al fresco. There’s no better way to shake up meal time than dining al fresco, whether it’s at a restaurant that has outdoor seating, in your backyard, or on your apartment building’s rooftop terrace. We love spreading out a blanket and dining among nature (and other picnickers) at the neighborhood park.

Find fresh produce and baked goods at the farmers’ market.

With locations in Aquebogue and Jamesport, Bayview Farms & Market offers seasonal produce, along with homemade sausage and kielbasa, fresh pasta, jams and jellies, and pie. For more information, and other markets in Suffolk County, visit nymetroparents.com/farmers-markets.

Gobble up some strawberry treats

at Benner’s Farm’s Strawberry Fair Weekend in East Setauket. The farm’s organic berries will be covered in chocolate, made into jams, top sundaes, and served with waffles. Plus, play old-fashioned games and listen to music. This year’s fest will be Saturday-Sunday, June 8-9 from 12-4pm. For more information, visit nymetroparents.com/strawberries. LongIslandParent 15

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! It’s especially important to drink plenty of water when you’re out and about with your family during the summer months, and you can’t go wrong with the tried-and-true Nalgene (nalgene.com) water bottles, which are manufactured in Rochester! From Grip-n-Gulps ($13) for toddlers to age 6, to Kids On-the-Fly ($14) and 16oz-32oz bottles for adults ($7-$16)— all of which come in an assortment of colors and prints—you’ll find a BPA-, BPS-, and phthalate-free bottle for everyone in your family.

Indulge in ice cream to beat the heat. While we love stopping by the local scoop shop for a dish of our favorite flavor, there’s nothing quite like making your own ice cream at home! For a sciencefilled recipe that will have your kids learning, visit nymetroparents.com/icecream-science. Or for a super-easy recipe that only calls for frozen bananas, peanut butter (optional), cocoa powder, and vanilla, visit nymetroparents.com/easy-icecream.

Jump, jump, jump around! The Big Bounce America is bringing 20,000 square feet of inflatable fun to Aviator Sports and Events Center in Marine Park, Brooklyn for two weekends: July 26-28 and Aug. 2-4. Trust us, the trip to Brooklyn is worth it! Find more information at nymetroparents.com/big-bounce. 16

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Kick back and relax with a book.

Visit your local public library branch, have each child in your family (and you!) pick out a book or two, check them out, and bring them home for a family story time.

Look at the stars. ©AMNH/D. Finnin

After your picnic, let the kids run around the park or play on the playground until dark, when you can lay back and look for shooting stars. Or, if you want to know what you’re looking at, visit the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium (vanderbiltmuseum.org) in Centerport for a viewing of Night Sky, Live!

Munch on peanuts and Cracker Jack while rooting for the Long Island Ducks!

The New York Mets affiliate will host its home opener on Friday, June 14 against the Staten Island Yankees in Coney Island, Brooklyn. Plus, there are fireworks after Friday and Saturday home games, and kids can run the bases after home games on Sundays. Find more minor league baseball teams in the New York metro area at nymetroparents.com/baseball.

Nurture a passion for giving back.

While some may only think of volunteering during the holiday season, we say lend a hand all year-round! Whether is at the library, a nursing home, or an animal shelter, volunteering helps your kids become global citizens—and helps the community. Find places to volunteer with your children at nymetroparents.com/volunteer.

Outdoor movies are one of summer’s greatest pleasures.

Putt your way to a hole in one! The 18-hole course at Tiki Action Park in Centereach features a waterfall, streams, and a lily pond. Don’t miss the “cave hole,” where you putt from inside a dark cave, or the 10-foot-tall Tiki Fountain, at the top of which is the 18th hole. For more information, and more mini golf courses in Suffolk County, visit nymetroparents.com/mini-golf.

At Harborfront Park in Port Jefferson, outdoor screenings include Wonder, Mamma Mia, Christopher Robin, A Dog’s Way Home, and Mary Poppins Returns. For more information, and other outdoor movies in Suffolk County, visit nymetroparents.com/outdoor-movies. LongIslandParent 17

Quiet time is easier to come by in summer.

Take a couple hours off to find solace in peaceful outdoor places. Take a walk in the park, visit the serene Cloisters in upper Manhattan or bike one of the many beautiful trails in Rockland or Bergen counties. Whatever you choose, make sure you leave the noise behind.

Round & Round

we go!

Climb aboard 1 of 36 horses or hop in a sleigh and take a spin on the Northrup Grumman Carousel, located in Greenport. Housed in a glass structure with a view of the water, this 100-year-old carousel offers rides yearround. For more carousels in Suffolk County, visit nymetroparents.com/ carousels.

Scamper through the rain. Don your rain coats and boots to jump in puddles with your kids. Whoever makes the biggest splash wins!

Thrill your kids with a day at Boomers! Long Island! Located in Medford, this amusement park (boomerslongisland.com) features Kiddie Rides, including a family coaster, spinning tea cups, mini jets, kiddie swings, and a train, as well as go-karts, bumper boats, a rock wall, and mini golf. You won’t want to miss the Patriotic Party on July 5, with a live DJ, character visits, and more.

r e t a W r e d Un ool off. c to e c la p t s ur suits is the be down, grab yo

ars mmer sun be t a nearby When the su ss kids, and hi le st re e th lly ra doors to s, r el ei w th to and which open of l al — lock and ol po et to bring a community ne. Don’t forg yo er ev d an anyone a good book.

Vitamin D? Yes, please!

But before you head outside, make sure everyone in the family slathers on the sunscreen—and re-applies it every hour. After all, we don’t want any sunburns to hamper our summer fun! We’re loving Supergoop’s new Sunnyscreen, three 100-percent mineral sunscreen formulas specifically for babies and kids ($24-$26; supergoop.com).

Wander

through Elizabethan England.

Back in the Orange County town of Tuxedo for its 42nd season, the New York Renaissance Faire (renfair.com/ny) will be held Saturday-Sunday and Labor Day, Aug. 17-Oct. 6. The 65-acre village celebrates life in the 16th century with costumed performers, jousting tournaments, music, festive foods, magicians, rides, and more than 100 shops selling handmade wares. Don’t miss the Children’s Knighting Ceremony, the Enchanted Forest, or Kidsquest, where kids can participate in a 30-minute adventure in which they work together to help the fairies save their enchanted homes.

X-treme sports are not just for athletes. Warm weather and summer adrenaline can inspire even the most reluctant adventurers to get outdoors and try something new. Now’s the time to sign up for the group trapeze class or a ziplining trip. Get out there—it’s the season to explore!

Yard sales, flea markets, tag sales, oh my! Before spending a day browsing for treasures, make your own scavenger hunt with unique things like “the weirdest thing you found,” “a book with the letter z in the title,” “a gadget you’ve never seen before,” “a blast from the past (an old game system, old telephone, or typewriter).” Happy hunting!

Zoos are

easy family fun.

The 10-acre Animal Farm Petting Zoo in Manorville allows you to pet and feed most animals. See a large selection of monkeys, parrots, llamas, wallabies, reptiles, and other exotic animals. There are also free pony rides, a musical puppet show, playgrounds and the Safari Tour Train. For more information, and more local zoos, visit nymetroparents.com/zoos. LongIslandParent 19

raising kids teen

Is Your Teen Ready for a Job?

››

Your high-schooler may need money, but that doesn’t mean jumping into the workforce is the right move. By Christina Vercelletto

arents of teens commiserate over many things, but if there is one universal they can all relate to, it is the phrase “I need money for….” The possibilities for the second half of the sentence are endless: new sneakers, a ticket for the school play, a team jacket, a friend’s birthday gift, a MetroCard. So, when your high-schooler brings up getting a job, it may be all you can do to resist shouting “Yesssss!” But your jubilation should be tempered with a bit of caution.

Four Questions to Assess Job Readiness

Teens may all need money, but not all of them are actually ready to handle a job. Whether seeking gainful employment was her idea or yours, here’s what to consider before you sign the working papers. Can he manage his time pretty well? This is one of the most fundamental skill sets for job readiness, affirms Alexandra Hamlet, Psy.D., at Child Mind Institute in Manhattan. “Teens who can show respect for their co-workers’ and boss’ time are on their way to becoming successful in their first job,” she says. If your kid is the one forever missing the bus, waiting on applying for that first job might be wise. How are her communication skills? “Communication skills development is key for many areas of life, and especially in the workforce,” Dr. Hamlet notes. If your teen seems comfortable holding conversations with adults, and is able to express her thoughts clearly, those are good signs she’s ready to respond to that help-wanted post. Kids who are afraid to ask questions (and tend to pretend they know more than they do to avoid looking “stupid”) would likely do well to work on breaking those habits before taking a job. Does he seem to have a solid sense of what’s appropriate in different situations? Professionalism is another key readiness factor that can be expressed in several ways: showing up in appropriate attire, coming prepared for the workday, and being able to maintain a respectful, friendly demeanor (even when he’s in a bad mood), Dr. Hamlet says. When deciding if your child has the ability to present himself appropriately, look to what happens at school. Does he wear clean, weather-appropriate clothes, or is he a wrinkled mess? Is he usually prepared with his school work? Does he follow the rules? Is she a team player? Most jobs these days, for students or grownups, require at least some teamwork. “Teaching your teen a teamwork ethic could be helpful,” Dr. Hamlet says. “This would include

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

formation of overall leadership abilities, learning to be helpful and collaborative with others, and valuing contributions from members of the team.” If your child seems to work well during group projects, or has successfully been playing a team sport, those are good signs. Even if your teen seems to be coming up a bit short in one or two of these areas, it doesn’t necessarily mean she or he shouldn’t apply for a job. All of these job-readiness criteria are moderated by the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for planning complex cognitive behavior, decision making and impulse control, and moderating social behavior, which isn’t fully mature until the early 20s. “Waiting for them to be one-hundred percent in all of those areas would probably require you to wait until they graduate from college to allow them to have their first job!” Dr. Hamlet notes. “Working toward growth in each of these areas is more realistic.”

Know the Labor Laws

Your teen wants a job. You think he’s ready to handle it. The next step is applying, and it’s important to educate yourself about child labor laws. Make sure you understand the rules that apply to your child, because not every employer can be trusted to adhere to them. Christine Koehler’s daughter, Mari, was 15 when she was hired as a hostess for a pub-style restaurant near the family’s Long Beach home. “She loved it at first, but the owner kept giving her more and more hours,” Koehler recalls. “Before long, I was picking her up at [one in the morning] on Saturday nights. The owner didn’t really seem to care she was a young girl working nights with...the bar crowd.” “New York state has one of the strictest child labor laws in the country,” says Wendy Gildin, an attorney in Garden City specializing in issues surrounding students. Kids younger than 14 can’t work, period. Fourteen and 15-year-olds can’t work more than 3 hours on a school day, or more than 18 hours in any given week. There are also laws around how late at night minors can work on school vs. nonschool days, with some exceptions for babysitters, Gilden notes. New York state requires all 14- to 17-year-olds to file working papers. These are available through your child’s school. “Your child will have to have had a doctor’s exam in the last year,” Gildin adds. Our very first job is one we all remember, even if it wasn’t the perfect experience. Talk with your teen, about what he needs money for and how much, what the world of work entails, and how it can be part of his healthy march toward adulthood. Prepare him well, and his job will be a life-long memory, too.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

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Let’s Get Sewing!

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Media Sponsor LongIslandParent 21

Summer Fun PROGRAMS & CLASSES

Art League of Long Island Summer Art Adventure

Paumanok Elementary School, 1 Seaman Neck Road, Dix Hills Summer Pre-College Portfolio Development 107 E. Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-462-5400 artleagueli.org info@artleague.org Summer Art Adventure offers kids and teens ages 5-18, fun and creative activities in a variety of visual art mediums led by certified art professionals. Find inspiration by creating art using specific artists’ unique styles. Special guests and events add to the exciting atmosphere. Flexible schedules and themed sessions available.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

Nature Summer Camp 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org info@cshfishhatchery.org Young explorers, grades pre-K through 12th, spend summer surrounded by nature. Encourage their love of nature with hands-on activities, nature crafts, live animals, and outdoor adventure nature camps. Expeditions to nearby salt marsh, ponds, and woodlands. One-, to four-day camps available. Summer fun at a great price! Prepare to get wet and muddy!

Destination Science - The fun science day camp for curious kids 5 to 11!

multiple locations in Nassau and Suffolk counties 888-909-2822 destinationscience.org info@destinationscience.org Destination Science Kids experience “Aha!” moments of understanding, creativity, and curiosity while engineering, building, experimenting, and playing with astonishing gadgets and fantastic gizmos. Our topnotch, enthusiastic educators make STEM learning an adventure! 2019 programs: Robot Challengers and Reaction Racers, Young Innovators Science, Rocket Space Science, and Physics Coaster and Science Magic.

Extreme STEAM Science Kids

450 Deer Park Road, Dix Hills 631-499-8580 extremesteamcamp.com info@extremesteamscience.com Located in Dix Hills on 15 acres, for grades first-fifth geared to develop skills and curiosity in science. The curriculum is centered around STEAM in our state-of-the-art Science Center. Core focus robotics,

engineering, programming, science, mathematics, coding, and arts. Transportation, before- and after-care, and lunch available.

First Class Tutoring

81 Lenox Road, West Babylon 631-560-2882 info@firstclasstutoring.net The First Class Tutoring Summer Tutoring program includes SAT prep and Regents Review. Parents may sign children up for group sessions or one-on-one tutoring. We provide multiple practice tests to identify areas of weakness. The program runs from July 1-Aug. 23. Scheduling and time slots are very flexible.

Future Stars Summer Camps

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

The Gateway Performing Arts Center of Suffolk County

The Gateway School for the Performing Arts 215 S. Country Road, Bellport 631-286-1133, 631-286-0555, x5000 thegateway.org The Gateway School of Performing Arts is Long Island’s home for high-quality theater arts education— both Robert Duvall and Gene Hackman began their careers here. More than 300 students each year receive professional level training that builds technique while working towards a production with professional teachers in a fun, social environment!

GCH Designs

Genevieve C. Hasemann, seamstress 516-983-0427 genevievescustomheirlooms@gmail.com GCH Designs is now offering children’s sewing lessons. We specialize in teaching children and teens the skills and art of sewing. We are available for after-school classes and summer camp. We offer flexible hours, expert and experienced instructors. Limited seats available. Let’s get sewing now!

Great Strides Long Island

41 Coram-Swezeytown Road,

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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, a four-day introduction to horses in June, July, and August. Private lessons are available for English and Western students.

Hofstra Summer Camps

101 Oak St., Uniondale 516-463-CAMP (2267) hofstra.edu/camps hofstra.edu/camps ce-camps@hofstra.edu Hofstra Summer Camps offer children, ages 5-17, more than 70 programs from theater to sports, gaming, art, music, STEM and STEAM, academics, culinary, dance, YouTube Studio, Adventure Education, and Super Hero Academy. At our camp, kids will explore their interests, learn valuable social skills, and have fun while gaining confidence.

Huntington Center for Performing Arts Training for Life 310 New York Ave. (across from Book Revue), Huntington Village 631-271-4626 huntingtonperformingarts.com huntingtonballet.com liballettheatre.com huntingtoncenter@yahoo.com Join us for our Summer Spectacular—programming for all ages including adults certain to inspire the artist within us all! Summer camps for ages 3 and older that explore all of the performing arts and specialty programs including. Ballet Boot Camp and private music lessons in strings, piano, and voice.

Kids Country Day Camp

37 Crystal Brook Hollow Road, Mount Sinai 631-331-5351 kidscountrydaycamp.com Children ages 3-12 take part in more than 50 fun, exciting activities including field and court sports, arts and crafts, dance, karate, a talent show, a giant water slide, a sprinkler park, pedal karts, foam parties, a carnival, animal shows, and challenge course. Camp program runs eight weeks. Various combinations of weeks and days available.

Knox School Summer Adventures

541 Long Beach Road, St. James 631-686-1600 x414 knoxschool.org/summer-programs/ summer-adventures ndezenzo@knoxschool.org Located in Saint James on the shores of Stony Brook Harbor, our picturesque waterfront campus is 40 rolling acres. Kids in pre-K through 10th grade can get away from the stress of the school year and enjoy fun in the great outdoors! Knox offers flexible scheduling to maximize campers’ experience.

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.

Long Island Explorium

101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson 631-331-3277 longislandexplorium.org Summer camp 2019 will stretch the boundaries of fun, catapulting STEAM learning skyward! Let the Explorium be your journey of exploration, discovery, invention, and innovation this summer. Intriguing challenges to solve. Creative people to meet. You choose one-five weeks of fun learning.

Mid Island Aero Camp

Aero Camp at Mid Island Air Services 101 Herring Drive (MacArthur Airport), Ronkonkoma 631-588-5400 midislandair.com Students grades sixth to 12th have an opportunity to pilot an airplane. Cadets have classroom instruction, a simulator flight, aircraft flights, and airport tours. We have added an additional camp from July 22-26, Monday-Friday 9am3pm. Aero Chapter meets the third Thursday of each month from 5:307pm, allowing students the opportunity to talk aviation.

Northwell Health Ice Center

200 Merrick Ave., East Meadow 516-441-0070 northwellhealthicecenter.com Keep the kids cool at Northwell Health Ice Center this summer. The goal is to provide a fun and positive experience that will create a lifelong love of skating. We offer Young Beginner classes for kids ages 2-5, and group lesson programs for ages 6 through adult.

Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts

71 E. Main St., Patchogue 631-207-1313 patchoguetheatre.org Patchogue Theatre’s Kids Summer Film Series screens family favorite films on Wednesdays throughout the summer. Films are presented in both English and Spanish! To celebrate, our first film, Finding Nemo, is free for everyone and includes a pre-screening party in the lobby one hour before showtime with snacks and activities. continued on page 24

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SUMMER ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

Extreme Steam science Kids

SUMMER 2019

BASEBALL CAMP

long island’s premier summer Science program for children completing grades 1 - 5

WEEK ON E BEGINS MO NDAY, JULY 8!

Long Island’s first and best instructional program for players ages 4-17

One through six weeks of ability-level instruction. Customize your program! *Multi-week and team discounts are available.

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! Morning program with option to extend the day and experience all of the AMAZING activities Park Shore has to offer. WEEK MULTI-TEAM AND NTS ARE U DISCO BLE! AVAILA

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Transportation is available in Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Manhattan at an additional cost.

camp at park shore

To register or for more information, visit hofstra.edu/nyba or call 516-463-CAMP.

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EXTREME STEAM

JOIN US FOR THE SUMMER OF 2019. CALL NOW FOR A TOUR!

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5/17/19 3:04 PM

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

2 KNOX SUMMER ADVENTURES 0 1 9

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child? Most Aﬀordable, Cusomizable schedule

JOIN US FOR A SUMMER TO REMEMBER Grades K-10 • June 27th-August 23rd • 9��-3��

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

Lunch & Snack included Busing Availavble Extended Care AM & PM Available!

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

CIT Program, Teens Travel 4 days per week, Equestrain Progams

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

INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

CALL NOW 631-686-1640 OR EMAIL CAMP_INFO@KNOXSCHOOL.ORG

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

LongIslandParent 23

‹‹ continued from page 22

Posey School

57 Main St., Northport 631-757-2700 poseyschoolofdance.com poseyschoolofdance@gmail.com Exciting Children’s Summer Art Camp Around The World at Posey School of Dance. Children ages 3-9 will actively engage in dance, art, and acting classes daily from 9am12pm. Weekly themes include Fun in France, Walk like an Egyptian, Party in India, Australian Outback, and English Royal Week! $200 per week.

SoLuna Studio

659 Old Willets Path, Hauppauge 631-761-6602 solunastudiony.com solunastudiony@gmail.com SoLuna Studio is now enrolling for our Summer Camp production of Frozen Jr! Camp begins July 8 for ages 5-10 (five-week program) and for ages 11 and older (six-week program). Evening and weekend classes are also available. Located in Hauppauge, SoLuna Studio offers classes and productions all year long!

Spartan Games

spartan.com us@spartan.com Globally, Spartan Kids is on a mission to inspire children to develop a love for fitness at an early age. We provide recreational and competitive, world-class level obstacle racing at various distances and difficulties for children ages 4-14 to build self-confidence while enjoying a thrilling outdoor activity.

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 combina-

tion 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.

St. Patrick Youth Community

Summer Camp St. Patrick Church, 280 E. Main St., Smithtown 631-360-0185 stpatsyouth.com; spyouth@optonline.net Camp St. Patrick offers Summer Sports Camps! Our Basketball Camp engages children in skills, drills, games, and scrimmages. Great prep for school tryouts or Catholic Youth Orgagnization! One-week Cheerleading Camp to strengthen new and old cheerleading skills. We offer Dek Hockey and lacrosse clinics during the summer as well.

Studio E Art Classes

565 Route 25A, Miller Place 631-744-4001 studioeartclass.com/childrens-camps Studio E offers art enrichment camps to three age groups: children (ages 5-8), tweens (ages 9-12), and teens (ages 13-17). Topics include pottery, hand-building, painting, drawing, sketching, collage, and illustration. Studio E Art Camps provide small group instruction. Camps meet Tuesdays-Fridays for half-days. Pay per week!

TJE Dance Force

556 N. Country Road, Saint James 631-584-6888 310 Main St., Holbrook 631-585-6900 tjedance.com; info@tjedance.com Experience the finest, most talented, creative, award-winning staff that will motivate your child to do the best they can! Girls and boys age 4 and older are welcome. Camp is Monday-Thursday from 9:30am-12:30 pm. We will offer

games, dance, and crafts. You choose one-five weeks of summer camp.

Village East Gifted Summer Program Village East Gifted of Huntington, 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn, 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com The Summer STEAM Program 2019 offers three-, four-, and five-day workshops combining science, technology, math, engineering, gemology, oceanography, architecture, and business with artistic expression. Workshops are offered, for grades kindergarten-sixth, during the day and after camp in both Nassau and Suffolk counties between June 25-Aug. 28.

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (962254) Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org; info@ymcali.org At the YMCA everyone has the opportunity to surpass their potential. With swim lessons, youth sports, theater and dance classes, and programs for families, the possibilities are endless. Summer Program Session runs June 23—Aug. 31. Registration starts June 9. Register at ymcali.org.

ACTIVITIES & EXCURSIONS Bethpage Federal Credit Union

800-628-7070 lovebethpage.com At Bethpage, we care about what you care about—Like building a strong financial foundation for your child this summer. Our youth and young adult savings accounts offer no annual fees, a low minimum opening deposit (only $5), and a competitive interest rate. Open an account today.

The Great South Bay Music Festival James Faith 631-331-0808

greatsouthbaymusicfestival.com jamie@jfaith.com The Great South Bay Music Festival is Long Island’s largest, and longest-running music festival. This year’s event will take place from July 18-21. Join us for The Imagination Movers on Sunday, July 21 and an educational KidZone area on July 20 and 21.

Long Island Aquarium

431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH2O (426) or 631-2089200 x125 longislandaquarium.com Featuring one of the largest all-living coral reef displays, a 120,000-gallon shark tank, year-round sea lion shows, African penguins, touch tanks, and more than 100 exhibits including indoor gardens of the Butterflies, Bugs, and Birds habitat! Try an aquatic adventure, like the Shark Dive, Penguin Encounter, or the Pirate Snorkel Adventure (seasonal).

Long Island Ducks

Bethpage Ballpark 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip 631-940-DUCK (3825) liducks.com The Long Island Ducks are members of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball and provide affordable family fun and entertainment. Have your kids come out on Sundays to run the bases or join us for a Fireworks Spectacular. The Ducks play their home games at Bethpage Ballpark in Central Islip.

Splish Splash

2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton 631-727-3600 splishsplashlongisland.com Splish Splash is one of the best places to visit in Long Island with kids and is voted one of the Best Water Parks in America by the Travel Channel! With 96 exciting acres of family fun, everywhere you turn you will discover another one-of-a-kind water attraction.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE SAT & REGENTS REVIEW COURSES July 1st – Aug 23rd 2-Week Sessions • Flexible Schedules

Summer Camp Enroll By June 10 for a DISCOUNTED Rate!

Begins July 8th 5 Week Program for Ages 5-10 6 Week Program for Ages 11+

SoLuna Studio NY

659 Old Willets Path Hauppauge, NY 11788 (631) 761-6602 www.SoLunaStudioNY.com 24

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

SAT EXAM PREP

Our highly affordable course will provide: •  Techniques to beat the SAT •  Skill Building of various concepts •  Mastery of each subject •  Confidence to help achieve results SUMMER SPECIAL •  Success on the SAT Exam 25% off on SAT Prep Course

REGENTS REVIEW

•  Subjects Covered: Ø  Science • Math • English Ø  Spanish • Social Studies •  Extensive review of subject matter •  Techniques to help increase scores First Class Tutoring will help instill a deeper understanding of the test subjects, while fostering problem solving skills, and test taking strategies.

631-560-2882 • allyson@firstclasstutoring.net

SUMMER ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

Saint Patrick’s Summer Camp #for The Kids

Camp St. Pat’s

Kiddie Camp Ages 3-5

Main Camp Ages 6-12

Teen Travel Ages 13-15

We pride ourselves in providing the ultimate summer camp experience for boys & girls, ages 3-15. Offering traditional day camp activities, trips across our beautiful Long Island and fun ﬁlled educational clinics on site. Our staff includes educators, lifeguards, EMS, and counselors who were once campers right here at St. Pat's!

ENROLL NOW FOR SUMMER:

Baseball • Softball LAX • Cheer Camp m Summer Hoops Tea – Boys & Girls

St. Patrick Youth Summer Enrichment Grades K-5 • July 8th-Aug 9th

Let your student take part in one-, two- or 5-weeks of summer enrichment. STEAM integrated and hands on activities that will allow your child to maintain their Common Core curriculum through the summer and prepare for their next grade.

631-360-0185 • www.stpatsyouth.com Saint Patrick R.C. Church • 280 East Main St., Smithtown

Enriching brilliant minds every day… in every way.

We are Dancing because SUMMER REGISTRATION will be here soon!!

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Summer Classes - 5 week program! Monday, July 15th thru Saturday, August 17th ǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ Ϯϱ ǇĞĂƌƐ ǁŽƌƚŚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĨŝŶĞƐƚ͕ ŵŽƐƚ ƚĂůĞŶƚĞĚ͕ ĐƌĞĂƚŝǀĞ͕ ĂǁĂƌĚ ǁŝŶŶŝŶŐ ƐƚĂĨĨ ǁŚŽ ǁŝůů ŵŽƚŝǀĂƚĞ ǇŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚ ƚŽ ĚŽ ƚŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ƚŚĞǇ ĐĂŶ͊ dŚĞ ďĞŶĞĨŝƚƐ ǇŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ǁŝůů ƌĞĐĞŝǀĞ ǁŚŝůĞ ĚĂŶĐŝŶŐ Ăƚ d: ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƋƵĂůŝƚŝĞƐ ĞǀĞƌǇ ĐŚŝůĚ ŶĞĞĚƐ ƚŽ ƐƵĐĐĞĞĚ ͲͲ ĨŽĐƵƐ͕ ĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƚŝŽŶ͕ ƐĞůĨͲĐŽŶĨŝĚĞŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ ƐĞůĨͲĞƐƚĞĞŵ͕ ƉůƵƐ ƚŚĞǇΖůů ŵĂŬĞ Ă ƚŽŶ ŽĨ ŶĞǁ ĨƌŝĞŶĚƐ ĂŶĚ ŵŽƐƚ ŽĨ Ăůů ͘͘͘ ƚŚĞǇ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŚĂǀŝŶŐ ĨƵŶ ǁŚŝůĞ ůĞĂƌŶŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ŵĂŶǇ ĨŽƌŵƐ ŽĨ ĚĂŶĐĞ͊ Plus, sign up for

TJE Summer Camp

ŽŵƉĞƚŝƚŝŽŶ ĞŶƚĞƌ ϭϭϱϬͲϱ >ŝŶĐŽůŶ ǀĞ͕͘ ,ŽůďƌŽŽŬ ϲϯϭͲϮϱϲͲϯϬϱϬ

GIFTED? Year Round Academic Enrichment in All Subject Areas Ages 2-16 • Nassau & Suffolk Locations

SUMMER PROGRAM FOR THE GIFTED Grades K – 6 • 3, 4 & 5 Day Workshops • After Camp Workshops

Over 25 years and still dancin!

at our Holbrook Location!! Girls and Boys 4 years old and up! Monday thru Thursday 9:30 am – 12:30 pm Games * Dance * Crafts 5 Week Program Monday, July 15th thru Thursday, August 15th Pick any or all weeks you want!

d: EŽƌƚŚ ϱϱϲ EŽƌƚŚ ŽƵŶƚƌǇ ZŽĂĚ͕ ^ƚ͘ :ĂŵĞƐ ϲϯϭͲϱϴϰͲϲϴϴϴ

Is your child

d: ĂŶĐĞ &ŽƌĐĞ ϯϭϬ DĂŝŶ ^ƚƌĞĞƚ͕ ,ŽůďƌŽŽŬ ϲϯϭͲϱϴϱͲϲϵϬϬ

•  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •  •

CIVIL ENGINEERING GEMOLOGY OCEANOGRAPHY MATHEMATICS ENTREPRENEUSHIP ARCHITECTURE AQUATIC ART STRUCTUAL DESIGN CULINARY SCIENCE CREATIVE WRITING

631-549-2313 • www.VillageEast.Gifed.com LongIslandParent 25

SUMMER ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

A SUMMER OF FUN, DYNAMIC ART ENRICHMENT SESSIONS FOR KIDS & TEENS

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

SUMMER CAMP 2019

SUMMER ART ADVENTURE

Hands-on Outdoor Adventures • Nature Crafts Live Animals & More!

at Paumanok Elementary School, Dix Hills

Early Childhood Program • Ages 5 - 6 Young Artists Program • Ages 7 -10 July 8th – August 9th Five Weekly Themed Sessions Choose one or more!

Mature Artists • Ages 11-14 July 8th - 19th and July 22nd - August 2nd Two 2-week sessions … Choose one or both!

SUMMER PRE-COLLEGE PORTFOLIO at The Art League Center, Dix Hills

Teens • Ages 15 -18 July 8th - July 26th & July 29th - August 16th Two 3-week sessions … Choose one or both!

PARTNER PROGRAM

with Park Shore Country Day Camp, Dix Hills Kids ages 5-9 can join Summer Art Adventure in the mornings and spend the afternoons at Park Shore Day Camp!

GIVE YOUR YOUNG EXPLORER A SUMMER SURROUNDED BY NATURE!

www.ARTLEAGUELI.org • 631-462-5400

516-692-6768 • www.CSHFISHHATCHERY.org

Spectacular Young Artists Program

Due to demand, a second Camp week has been added

Spectacular!

AERO CAMP BRAVO

FULL DAY: AGES 7-12 • HALF-DAY: AGES 3-6

under the guidance of an FAA Certified Flight Instructor.

• Sixth optional flight day available

4 or 6

• Satisfies BSA Aviation Merit Badge.

week sessions

Ballet Boot Camp BALLET BOOT CAMP August 22-24 & 27-28

PRIVATE

MUSIC LESSONS

10:00Am-1:00Pm AUGUST 20-22 & 27-29 Study with our ABT (R) certified faculty trained in ballet STUDY WITH OUR ABT® pedagogy and granted Master Degrees in Education from the CERTIFIED FACULTY. ABT/NYU program. This summer we VIOLINwww.huntingtonperformingarts..com • CELLO • PIANOVisit will feature guest teachers currently on faculty at the FEATURING GUEST Call 6312714626 American Ballet Theatre school VOICE: 310 New York Ave, Huntington Village in NYC. TEACHERS FROM THE CLASSICAL, POP AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE OR MUSICAL THEATER SCHOOL IN NYC.

• Join Aero Chapter, a monthly

JULY 8 – AUGUST 29

aviation club for students

To learn more about this great program, contact

Mid Island Flight School at 631-588-5400 or visit www.midislandair.com

Session I – July 8 – 18 Frozen/Nutcracker Session II – July 22 – August 8 Beauty and The Beast/ Sleeping Beauty Session III – August 12 -22 Lion King/Carnival of the Animals

SESSION I: JULY 8–18 FROZEN / NUTCRACKER SESSION II: JULY 22-AUGUST 8 Private Music Lessons 8- August 29 BEAUTY & THE BEAST / SLEEPING BEAUTY AreasJuly of study will be violin, viola, cello, piano, voice (classical, pop or musical theater) SESSION III: AUGUST 12-22 LION KING / CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS

• Campers pilot a real plane

Filip, visiting from the Czech Republic, attends Bravo Camp in 2018

Three (2) weeks sessions with special themes:

YOUNG ARTISTS PROGRAM

July 22nd – 26th | Grades 6-10 | $629

Full Day: 9:30-3:30 ages 7-12 Half Day: 9:30-1:00 ages 3-6 Monday – Thursday

www.huntingtonperformingarts.com • 631-271-4626

Visit

Mini Dance Intensive

Great Strides believes in the magic of the horse-human experience. Beautiful 15 acre ranch, 3 outdoor rings and a heated indoor arena! We offer a warm, friendly and safe horse

Riding Lessons Summer Mini Camps 



Therapeutic Riding Birthday Parties

FAMILY FUN DAY June 15 | 12-4PM 41 Coram-Swezeytown Road, Middle Island, NY 11953 631.786.9708 | greatstridesli.org | Julie@greatstridesli.org LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Great Strides Long Island at Saddle Rock Ranch

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Photos: Janette Pellegrini

Exceptional Summer Classes for Serious Dancers www.huntingtonperformingarts. Call 6312714626

310 New York Ave, Huntington Vill for Serious Young Dancers Age 8-11 Monday-Thursday 12 noon - 3pm July 8-25 and August 5-15, 2019 Ballet • Modern/Contempory • Tap Jazz • Improvisation • Choreography $200/week Pre-Professional Dance Intensive Age 12+ preparing for a profession in dance Monday-Thursday 9am-3pm July 8-25 and August 5-15, 2019 Ballet • Pointe • Variations • Jazz • Tap Modern/Contemporary • Improvisation Pilates • Choreography • Composition $400/week

631.757.2700

57 Main Street, Northport | www.poseyschoolofdance.com

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on 4th Annual Eastern Long Island Mini Maker Faire 2019 (No. 2 on our list).

JUNE

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WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

suffolkcal@davlermedia.com

CALENDAR 28 Editor’s Hot Tickets

32 Animal Lovers,

29 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, The Great Outdoors

30 Show Time!, Movers & Shakers

31 Fun Fairs & Festivals, Mini Musicians

Celebrate Pride

33 Crafty Kids, Holiday Fun

34 Smarty Pants, Special Needs

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 10 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!

Princess Tea Party

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 1pm WHERE: Ballet Long Island, 1863 Pond Road, Ronkonkoma AGES: 3-8 WHAT: See a princess performance on stage and have tea, lemonade, cupcakes, and cookies. WHY WE LOVE IT: Everyone is encouraged to dress like a princess! WANT TO GO? $19. 631-737-1964. theballetcenter.org.

4th Annual Eastern Long Island Mini Maker Faire 2019

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 10am-5pm WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: All WHAT: Experience innovative robotics, kinetic and interactive art, fine sculptures, and more creative experiences. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a chance to explore the ocean through virtual reality. WANT TO GO? $7.50-$50. 631-331-3277. easternlongisland.makerfaire.com.

The I Love Chocolate Fest

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 10am-5pm WHERE: Suffolk County Community College Event Center, Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood AGES: All WHAT: Experience more than 50 local chocolate vendors, plus additional vendors with food and crafts. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families can enjoy live music and entertainment and a chocolate doughnut-eating contest. WANT TO GO? $12.50 until June 7; $10 kids 4-12, seniors, military, firefighters, EMTs; $15 after June 7; $12 kids, seniors, military, firefighters, EMTs. 631-488-0521. lovechocolatefest.com.

Smith Haven Mall Carnival FREE

WHEN: Through June 9: Monday-Thursday, 5-10pm; Friday, 5-11pm; Saturday, 12-11pm; Sunday, 12-10pm WHERE: Smith Haven Mall, 313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Enjoy midway rides, games, and fair food. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will flip for Victoria Circus thrill shows featuring high wire and aerial acts and a motorcycle show. WANT TO GO? 866-666-3247. dreamlandamusements.com.

North Meets South: Farms, Food, & Drink Festival

WHEN: June 8-9, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Long Island Sports Park, 149 Edwards Ave., Calverton AGES: All WHAT: A weekend promoting the farm-to-table movement with provisions from local farms.

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHY WE LOVE IT: The festival includes activities such as inflatable houses, a petting zoo, games, slides, pony rides, and live entertainment! WANT TO GO? $20; $25 at the door; free for children 12 and younger. 631-905-7115. northforkevent.com.

Stars, Stripes and Signal Flags

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 1-2pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Flag Day by exploring signal flags and creating one of your own. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can try their hand at other maritime crafts too. WANT TO GO? $12. 631-387-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

120th Birthday Party FREE

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 2pm WHERE: Southampton Historical Museum, 17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the museum’s 120th birthday with a concert of selections from the American Song Book. WHY WE LOVE IT: Cake and ice cream will be served! WANT TO GO? 631-283-2494. southamptonhistory.org.

Mattituck Lions Club 65th Annual Strawberry Festival

WHEN: June 13-16, Thursday, 5-10:30pm; Friday, 5-11pm; Saturday, 11am-11pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Mattituck Strawberry Festival, 1175 Route 48, Mattituck AGES: All WHAT: Experience strawberries, along with midway rides, live entertainment, and fireworks. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families can taste global foods and cheer as the new Strawberry Queen is crowned! WANT TO GO? $6 ages 5 and older; POP bracelets available to purchase. mattituckstrawberryfestival.org.

Jr. Marine Biologist

WHEN: June 20-23, Thursday and Sunday, 10-11am WHERE: Cranberry Hill Environmental Center at Fuchs Pond Preserve, 21 Norwood Ave., Northport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy hands-on time with marine animals, aquarium activities, and crafts. WHY WE LOVE IT: A great way to introduce your child to marine biology! WANT TO GO? $15 per child with adult. 631-239-1800 x3. ccesuffolk.org.

Long Island Fun Fest

WHEN: June 13-23, Monday-Friday, 4-11pm; Saturday-Sunday, 12-11pm WHERE: Suffolk Community College, 1001 Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood AGES: All WHAT: Have fun with midway rides, games, food, Victoria’s Circus, and the Eudora Farms Exotic Petting Zoo. WHY WE LOVE IT: Thrill seekers will want to try the Super Cyclone Roller Coaster and Delusion rides. WANT TO GO? $5 admission; see website for ticket prices. 866-666-3247. longislandfunfest.com.

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. Archaeology Bone Hunters FREE

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 10-11:30am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: Explore an archeology site, do some digging, and identify the bones that are found. WANT TO GO? 631-265-1054. parks.ny.gov.

Camp W Open House FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 12-2pm WHERE: Birchwood Intermediate School, 121 Wolf Hill Road, Melville AGES: All WHAT: Play soccer and basketball in the gym, plus get your face painted, make slime, visit a caricaturist, see a magician, and do some karate. WANT TO GO? 631-692-6222. campwdaycamp.com.

Dynamic Kids: A Day At The Ocean FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, June 12, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Swim with imaginary sharks, leap with dolphins, float in the “ocean,” and fly kites on the beach. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

I Fish NY: Fishing Fun FREE

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Campout Under the Stars

WHEN: June 7-8, Friday, 4:30pm to Saturday, 9am WHERE: Sunken Meadow State Park, 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: There will be activities to explore the night followed by fire building and leave-no-trace skills. WANT TO GO? $4 per person. 888-451-4948. parks.ny.gov.

Adventure Pack

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 10-11:30am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Discover what lives under the leaves, break open some rocks to see what’s inside, and learn to use a compass. WANT TO GO? $4 per person. 631-265-1054. parks.ny.gov/events.

Tiny Tots: Nature Discoveries- Moths and Butterflies, Oh My! FREE

WHEN: Thursday, June 13, 10-11am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Connect to nature with short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. WANT TO GO? 631-265-1054. parks.ny.gov.

Guided Labyrinth Walks: Full Moon Walk FREE

WHEN: Monday, June 17, 7:30pm WHERE: The Common Ground at Rotary Park, Gillette Avenue and Montauk Highway, Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Take a meditative walk guided by Barbara Fitzpatrick of Infinite Fountain Institute. WANT TO GO? 631-256-8458. thecommonground.com.

Tiny Tots: Nature Discoveries: Awesome Amphibians FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, June 18, 10-11am WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Sunrise Highway, Bohemia AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This program will connect children and their parents with nature. WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov/events.

Looking for Animals and their Tracks FREE

WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Hallock State Park Preserve, 6062 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: As you wander through the park, look for animals and their footprints, nests, burrows, egg masses, and scrapings. WANT TO GO? 631-315-5475. parks.ny.gov.

WHEN: Saturday, June 29, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Hempstead Lake State Park, Eagle Avenue, West Hempstead AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn how to tie line, cast, and identify fish, then try to catch a fish in Hempstead Lake. WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

Tiny Tots: Nature Discoveries: Batty Bats FREE

Peter Max Retrospective Exhibition Presents on Long Island FREE

International Mud Day

WHEN: June 28-July 7, Monday, 10am-6pm; Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 12-4pm WHERE: LaMantia Gallery, 127 Main St., Northport AGES: All WHAT: See the art of Peter Max. WANT TO GO? 631-754-8414. lamantiagallery.com.

WHEN: Thursday, June 27, 10-11am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Learn about bats through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. WANT TO GO? 631-265-1054. parks.ny.gov. WHEN: Saturday, June 29, 10am-3pm WHERE: Suffolk County Farm, 350 Yaphank Ave., Yaphank AGES: All WHAT: This day of muddy fun includes wagon rides, a visit to the Butterfly House, puddle jumping, and barnyard visits. WANT TO GO? $5; $3 animal feed. 631-852-4610. ccesuffolk.org. ›› LongIslandParent 29

MOVERS & SHAKERS The Art of Chess: Learn & Play! FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 2-5pm WHERE: Southampton Arts Center, 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton AGES: All WHAT: Join Ulysses Tapley to play and learn the art of chess! WANT TO GO? 631-283-0967. southamptonartscenter.org.

2019 Battleground Games

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 8am WHERE: Hecksher State Park, 1 Heckscher State Parkway, East Islip AGES: 13 and older WHAT: There will be cash prizes, music, food, drinks, and competitive fun at this video game tournament. WANT TO GO? $35 before June 1; $50 after June 1. 631-235-4477. battlegroundgames.weebly.com.

SHOW TIME! The Youth Experiencing Art Project presents: ‘Les Miserables’ School Edition WHEN: Through June 2: Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Les Misérables is a modern classic featuring one of the most memorable scores. WANT TO GO? $20. 631-724-3700. smithtownpac.org.

‘The Wizard of Oz’

WHEN: Through June 22: See website for schedule WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson AGES: 5 and older WHAT: There is truly no place like home as the greatest family musical makes its way to Port Jefferson. WANT TO GO? $35; $28 seniors; $20 children. 631-928-9100. theatrethree.com.

Huntington Summer Arts Festival Family Night FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, June 25, 7pm WHERE: Chapin Rainbow Stage, Heckscher Park, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: See the classic Cinderella performed live! WANT TO GO? 631-271-8423. huntingtonarts.org.

Petra Puppets: ‘The Big Banana Blast Off!’ FREE

Free Mindfulness Event FREE

WHEN: Friday, June 14, 6:30pm WHERE: Inspired Yoga and Healing, 1740 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Experience meditation, yoga, gong, and sound healing. WANT TO GO? 866-599-8783. tsvf.org.

‘Toy Story’ Party

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 10am-2pm WHERE: Wood Kingdom East and Mae Shed & Playground, 544 Middle Country Road, Coram AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy bounce houses and slides with Woody and Buzz! There will be photo opportunities and a dance party. WANT TO GO? $20 for one child and adult; $5 additional adults. 631-451-2200. woodkingdomeast.com.

Fit Family Yoga FREE

WHEN: Thursday, June 20, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Bring your mat and get moving. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Chessfest!

WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 10am-12pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: All WHAT: Chessfest will have games, lessons, big chess, and a tournament. WANT TO GO? $12; free for members. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

WHEN: Friday, June 28, 11am-12pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Kids blast off with Commander Chimp, Astro Sheep, and Cosmoo the Cow. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Friday Night In FREE

Melissa Errico: ‘Sondheim Sublime’

Yoga in the Park Provided by Om Shanti Yoga & Reiki Center FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 30, 7pm WHERE: Guild Hall, 158 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Errico performs her unique vision of Broadway’s greatest songwriter. WANT TO GO? $30-$100; $28-$95 members. 631-324-0806. guildhall.org.

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: June 7-28, Fridays, 5-8:30pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Spend Friday nights with games, activities, and movies. WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net. WHEN: June 9-30, Sundays, 8:30-9:30am WHERE: The Common Ground at Rotary Park, Gillette Avenue and Montauk Highway, Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy yoga for all skill levels. WANT TO GO? 631-256-8458. thecommonground.com.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Smithtown Festival Day FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 10am-4pm WHERE: Smithtown Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: Have fun with arts, crafts, entertainment, food, and refreshments! WANT TO GO? 631-979-8069. smithtownchamber.org.

MINI

MUSICIANS Maker Spotlight: Gerard Senese with Ryu Shu Taiko Drums

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 4pm WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: All WHAT: Learn about Taiko drums in this interactive workshop. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. longislandexplorium.org.

Woodstock Revival Festival

The Art League of Long Island’s Art in the Park Fine Art & Craft Fair FREE WHEN: June 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Heckscher Park, NY-25A and Prime Avenue, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: View and buy art and enjoy live music and activities. WANT TO GO? 631-462-5400. artleagueli.org.

WHEN: June 8-9, Saturday, 12-8:30pm; Sunday, 12-7pm WHERE: Old Bethpage Restoration Village, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family for two days of music and art! WANT TO GO? $40 per day; $36 per day in advance; $10 per day ages 15 and younger. 631-930-9054. limusicfestivals.com/festivals/woodstock-revival.

50th Annual Amityville Heritage Festival FREE

June Student Recitals

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 10am-4pm WHERE: Amityville Historical Society, 182 Merrick Road, Amityville AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy local business, history, great food, and activities. WANT TO GO? 631-598-1486. facebook.com/amityvillehistoricalsociety.

WHEN: Sunday, June 9, 12-3pm WHERE: The Warehouse, 203 Broadway, Amityville AGES: All WHAT: Students will show their progress at recitals for the Spin DJ Academy and The New York Academy of Music. WANT TO GO? $15; $12 in advance. 631-608-8858. musicacademyny.com.

Kings Park Day Street Fair FREE

Sounds & Sights: Alternatives For Children Musical & Artistic Adventure

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 10am-4pm WHERE: Main Street, Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: This giant craft fair will accommodate 130 exhibitors, plus live music and international food vendors. WANT TO GO? 631-846-1459. depasmarket.com.

WHEN: Sunday, June 9, 2:30-3:30pm WHERE: Gelinas Junior High School, 25 Mud Road, East Setauket AGES: 3 and older WHAT: A celebration of song in honor of music therapist, Beth Schwartz. WANT TO GO? $12. 631-331-6400. alternatives4children.org.

First Annual Princess of the Lake Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 9, 2pm WHERE: Huntington Center for Performing Arts, 310 New York Ave., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Piano and string students play from the Suzuki Repertoire. WANT TO GO? 631-271-4626. huntingtonperformingarts.com.

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 9am-6pm WHERE: Lake Ronkonkoma, 279 Lake Shore Road, Lake Ronkonkoma AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Indian Princess of the Lake with live handcrafts such as blacksmithing, silversmithing, and wood-working, plus music and food. WANT TO GO? 631-831-1670. thelakeheritage.org.

Strawberry Festival 2019

WHEN: June 1-23, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-6pm WHERE: Garden of Eve Farm, 4558 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Pick strawberries and have fun at the farm with the pedal kart track, hay pyramid, spider web, and farm café. WANT TO GO? $7.95 ages 2 and older. 631-722-8777. gardenofevefarm.com.

Blueberry Festival

WHEN: June 29-July 14, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-6pm WHERE: Garden of Eve Farm, 4558 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy picking blueberries, then go for a hayride and check out the farm café. WANT TO GO? $7.95 ages 2 and older. 631-722-8777. gardenofevefarm.com.

Suzuki Spring Concert FREE

Time For Baby FREE

WHEN: Fridays, June 7 and 21, 16 months to 2 years: 9:45-10:15am; newborn to 15 months: 11-11:30am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Enjoy songs and dance for both you and baby. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

The Pitchforks

WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 8pm WHERE: Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, 76 Main St., Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: Hear Duke University’s renowned a cappella group. WANT TO GO? $13. 631-288-1500. whbpac.org.

Wednesdays in the Park: Kick Off Concert: Chicago 9 Tribute Band FREE WHEN: Wednesday, June 26, 7pm WHERE: Rotary Park, Gillette Avenue and Montauk Highway, Sayville AGES: All WHAT: See the premier Chicago Tribute band of the Northeast. WANT TO GO? 631-256-8458. thecommonground.com. ››

LongIslandParent 31

Squawk! The Amazing Bird Show

WHEN: Through Sept. 2: Thursday-Sunday, times vary WHERE: The Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Squawk! The Amazing Bird Show has been on America’s Got Talent and The Late Show. WANT TO GO? $14; $16.95 children ages 3-12; free for children 2 and younger. 631-878-6644. longislandgamefarm.com.

National Geographic Photo Ark by Joel Sartore

ANIMAL LOVERS Reptile & Amphibian Appreciation Day

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 10am-4pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Visit exotic and native reptiles and amphibians. WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors; $5 ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org.

Creatures of the Night Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 6-10pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Sunrise Highway, Bohemia AGES: All WHAT: Learn all about animals that spend their nights awake! WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov/events.

Firefly Fun FREE

WHEN: Friday, June 21, 8-10pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Sunrise Highway, Bohemia AGES: All WHAT: Discover the world of lightning bugs through exciting activities. WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

Turtles, Snakes and Frogs FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 23, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Sunrise Highway, Bohemia AGES: All WHAT: Meet Myrtle the Turtle and her friends and enjoy a short hike. WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. parks.ny.gov.

Family Fridays: Erik and His Reptile ‘E’dventures FREE

WHEN: Friday, June 28, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: The Common Ground at Rotary Park, Gillette Avenue and Montauk Highway, Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Erik returns with his creatures followed by the releasing of hundreds of ladybugs in the gardens. WANT TO GO? 631-256-8458. thecommonground.com.

Nature Nick’s Animal Adventures

WHEN: Saturday, June 29, 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm WHERE: Belmont Lake State Park, 625 Belmont Road, North Babylon AGES: All WHAT: Nature Nick will delight audiences with his animal expertise. WANT TO GO? $8 parking; free for Empire Passport Card holders. 631-667-5055. nysparks.com. 32

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: June 27-Sept. 8, Thursday-Monday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Southampton Arts Center, 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton AGES: All WHAT: This exhibition highlights Sartore’s images from zoos, aquariums, and animal rescue centers. WANT TO GO? $5; free for members and children younger than 12. 631-283-0967. southamptonartscenter.org.

CELEBRATE PRIDE Born This Way: A Celebration of Queer Art & Culture

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 1pm WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 13 and older WHAT: See a variety of LGBTQ+ performers and an LGBTQ+ art exhibit. WANT TO GO? $5 suggested donation. 631-423-7611. cinemaartscentre.org.

Equality March & Pride Picninc FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 11:30am rally; 1pm walk begins WHERE: The Transgender Resource Center of Long Island, 65 Depot St., Sayville AGES: All WHAT: March and show your Pride! Picnic and festival to follow. WANT TO GO? 631-306-4872. trcli.org.

LGBTQIA Pride Picnic FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 12-6pm WHERE: The Common Ground at Rotary Park, Gillette Avenue and Montauk Highway, Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Eat, socialize, and show your Pride with crafts and live entertainment. WANT TO GO? 631-256-8458. trcli.org.

We Got You: LGBTQ Chat with the Experts FREE

WHEN: Monday, June 17, 6-8pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library Selden Building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join for a discussion about LGBTQ+ topics. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. mcpac.mcpl.lib.ny.us.

Crafting with Pride FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, June 19, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Show your pride by making buttons, jewelry, and canvases! WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. mcpac.mcpl.lib.ny.us.

The 29th Annual Long Island Pride Parade FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 23, 12-2pm WHERE: Broadway, between Lafeyette and Long Beach boulevards, Long Beach AGES: All WHAT: Be a spectator or march, then stick around for a beach concert. WANT TO GO? 516-323-0011. prideonthebeach.org.

CRAFTY KIDS Teen Open Studio: Narrative Collage FREE

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Explore a variety of techniques with artist Candace Hill Montgomery. WANT TO GO? 631-283-2118 x130. parrishart.org.

Heckscher Family Hour Tour and Art Activities

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 1-2pm WHERE: Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create a hands-on gallery project. WANT TO GO? $6; $5 per child; $4 seniors and students; free for members. 631-351-3250. heckscher.org.

Wire Animal Sculpture FREE

WHEN: Monday, June 3, 6-8pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library Selden Building, 575 Middle Country Road, Selden AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Create a free-standing horse sculpture. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. mcpac.mcpl.lib.ny.us.

Family Day

WHEN: Wednesday, June 5, 1-pm WHERE: The Watermill Center, 39 Water Mill Towd Road, Water Mill AGES: 5-12, adult WHAT: Create printed tapestries and make an instrument. WANT TO GO? $5-$10. 631-726-4628. watermillcenter.org.

Create the Collective Ribbon: Making the Triangle Fire Memorial FREE WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 12-4pm WHERE: Art League of Long Island, 107 E. Deer Park Road, Dix Hills AGES: All WHAT: Create a memorial to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire. WANT TO GO? 631-462-5400. artleagueli.org.

Toy Story Paint Event: Paint Woody!

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Paint Woody to celebrate the new Toy Story movie! WANT TO GO? $20. 631-608-9048. keytomyart.com.

Craft Wars! FREE

HOLIDAY FUN Building Memories with Dad FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, June 12, 4pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Decorate a jar then fill it with activities for you to do with Dad. WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Father’s Day Explorer’s Program

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 10-11:30am WHERE: Sherwood-Jayne Farm, 55 Old Post Road, East Setauket AGES: All WHAT: Learn how to use a compass, then test your skills on a scavenger hunt. WANT TO GO? $4. 631-692-4664. preservationlongisland.org.

Father’s Day Paint Event

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Paint with your dad or kids. WANT TO GO? $20. 631-608-9048. keytomyart.com.

Celebrate Family! Men Admitted Free for Father’s Day

WHEN: Sunday, June 16, 11am-5pm WHERE: The Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Men admitted free all day in honor of Father’s Day. WANT TO GO? $8; $6 seniors; $5 students ages 10 and older; free for members and children younger than 10. 631-351-3250. heckscher.org.

Father’s Day!

WHEN: Sunday, June 16, 9am-6pm WHERE: Garden of Eve Farm, 4558 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Spend the day at the farm with Dad and enjoy u-pick strawberry fields, hayrides, a pedal kart track, spider web, farm café, and brewery. WANT TO GO? $7.95 ages 2 and older; free for dads. 631-722-8777. gardenofevefarm.com.

Father’s Day Festival

WHEN: June 15-16, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Harbes Family Farm, 715 Sound Ave., Mattituck AGES: All WHAT: Have a ball with a sports zone, live music, a hayride tour, pig races, bounce pillows, a trike track, and an animatronic chicken show. WANT TO GO? $18.95; free for Dads and children 2 and younger. 631-298-0800. harbesfamilyfarm.com.

Father’s Day at the Long Island Game Farm

WHEN: Monday, June 24, 4-5pm WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Work in teams to take part in crafty challenges. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

WHEN: Sunday, June 16, 10am-5pm WHERE: The Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville AGES: All WHAT: Dad’s admission is half off with purchase of a full price ticket. WANT TO GO? $16.95; $14.95 children 3-12, seniors, and military personnel. 631-878-6644. longislandgamefarm.com.

Tote the Stars FREE

Father’s Day

WHEN: Tuesday, June 25, 4-4:45am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Keep plastic out of the sea by creating a galaxy-inspired, reusable bag. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

WHEN: Sunday, June 16, 10am-5pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Dads get free admission when accompanied by their kids! WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors; $5 ages 3-12; free for members. 516-692-6768. cshfishhatchery.org. ›› LongIslandParent 33

Build Your Own Mini-Rocket

WHEN: June 15-16, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Build a mini-rocket then test fuel efficiency. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. longislandexplorium.org.

Science Saturday Workshop: Crime Lab

SMARTY PANTS Have Fun While Learning to Sign FREE

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 10-11am WHERE: Emma S. Clark Memorial Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Learn the basic skills of Sign Language. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

Science Saturday Workshop: States of Matter ‘Phlubber’

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 2-3pm WHERE: Long Island Science Center, 11 W. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Learn about states of matter and make polymer Phlubber. WANT TO GO? $10 admission; $5 workshop fee; free for members. 631-208-8000. lisciencecenter.org.

WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 2-3pm WHERE: Long Island Science Center, 11 W. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Investigate a “crime scene” using fingerprinting and chromatography. WANT TO GO? $10 admission; $5 workshop fee; free for members. 631-208-8000. lisciencecenter.org.

Science Saturday Workshop: Measuring Bones

WHEN: Saturday, June 29, 2-3pm WHERE: Long Island Science Center, 11 W. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Examine bones and reassemble a human skeleton model. WANT TO GO? $10 admission; $5 workshop fee; free for members. 631-208-8000. lisciencecenter.org.

Design Your Own Light-Up Sculptures with Squishy Circuits WHEN: June 29-30, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Design light up sculptures. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. longislandexplorium.org.

Science Saturday Workshop: Optical Conclusions

WHEN: Saturday, June 8, 2-3pm WHERE: Long Island Science Center, 11 W. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Experiment with lenses, prisms, and spectrometers to learn how light can be reflected, refracted, and filtered. WANT TO GO? $10 admission; $5 workshop fee; free for members. 631-208-8000. lisciencecenter.org.

Future Scientist Workshop: Junior Astronauts: Phases of the Moon WHEN: Wednesday, June 12, 2-3pm WHERE: Long Island Science Center, 11 W. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Participants simulate the phases of the moon, read a story, and make a chart and moon phases on cookies. WANT TO GO? $10 admission; $5 workshop fee; free for members. 631-208-8000. lisciencecenter.org.

Teen Driver Safety Program FREE

WHEN: Friday, June 14, 6-8:30pm WHERE: Brookhaven’s Safety Town, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville AGES: 13 and older WHAT: This interactive experience exhibits the dangers of texting or drinking and driving. WANT TO GO? 631-363-3770. brookhavenny.gov.

Science Saturdays Workshop: Dino Detective

WHEN: Saturday, June 15, 2-3pm WHERE: Long Island Science Center, 11 W. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Learn how scientists determined how dinosaurs moved, ate, and lived, and create a fossil impression. WANT TO GO? $10 admission; $5 workshop fee; free for members. 631-208-8000. lisciencecenter.org. 34

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

SPECIAL NEEDS Book Signing in Honor of First Time Author Ben Blanchet FREE

WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 11am-1pm WHERE: Marra & Glick ABA, 1737 Veterans Memorial Highway, Islandia AGES: All WHAT: Dress as your favorite superhero and learn about Maybe Autism Is My Superpower. WANT TO GO? 631-479-2900. mg-aba.com.

GiGi’s Playhouse Long Island’s Family Fitness Day FREE

WHEN: Sunday, June 2, 2-4pm WHERE: Great South Bay YMCA, 200 W. Main St., Bay Shore AGES: All WHAT: A day for Down syndrome awareness and fun including fitness demos, a bounce house, a rock wall, a DJ, face painting, and raffles. WANT TO GO? 631-665-4255. gigisplayhouse.org.

Special Needs Fatherhood Dance

WHEN: Tuesday, June 4, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: Axis Cafe, 2884 Route 112, Medford AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate fathers with dancing, dinner, and special activities. WANT TO GO? $10. 631-251-6102. kocares.com.

Inclusion Workshop: Art with A Partner For Children & Young Adults WHEN: Sunday, June 9, 1-3pm WHERE: Art League of Long Island, 107 E. Deer Park Road, Dix Hills AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Bond with each other while creating something beautiful. WANT TO GO? $35. 631-462-5400 x222. artleagueli.org.

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) v 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.

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.

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, 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 (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.

HE'S A ROCK STAR! CATCH HIS ACT IN OUR DAILY SEA LION SHOWS! Don’t miss the show! Watch him clap, roar and soar through the air as his caretakers explain why teaching him husbandry behaviors are so important!

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

LongIslandParent 35 Sea Lion NS PARENT 3.55X4.7 2019.indd 1

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June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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LongIslandParent 37

family life finance

Why You Need an Emergency Fund ›› Also known as a rainy-day fund, the money in this savings account will tide you over in case you lose your income or have a major expense come up. By Niko Vercelletto

hink about this: If your family had an emergency that required a large amount of money—unexpected car repairs, job loss, or a major medical expense—would you have enough cash on hand to pay it? If you’re like most Americans, you would probably have a difficult time coming up with the money without selling something or taking out a loan. More than half of all Americans have less than $1,000 saved, according to a 2017 GoBankingRates survey. Even scarier, 39 percent have no savings at all. With the average household spending $60,000 in 2017, many aren’t even saving enough for weekly grocery bills, let alone car repairs and doctors’ visits. What’s causing this inability to save? There are many reasons, but the three biggest are high-cost of living, low salaries, and high debt balances. With a bachelor’s degree from a private university costing an average of $43,000 per year and the average adult racking up almost $7,000 in credit-card debt, it’s no wonder many aren’t saving. Even if there were no barriers to saving, banks aren’t exactly enticing customers to deposit money. The average interest rate on a savings account is a measly 0.10 percent (for every $1,000 you put in, you receive $1 per year), with many of the major banks offering even less. Yet despite the negativity surrounding savings rates and accounts in America, creating an emergency fund is one of the most important things you can do for financial stability and peace of mind. One of the biggest reasons you want this fund is in case of job loss. The latter half of 2018 saw 1.8 million people either laid off or discharged per month, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There is no way to know if, and when, a major change will occur, but an emergency fund can soften the blow. “Life happens,” says Todd Christensen, education manager at MoneyFit, a nonprofit based on Long Island that helps with debt and credit counseling. “[Things will go wrong] whether you are saving or not. Having an emergency fund just makes it less stressful.”

Choose an Emergency Fund Account

First, you need a place to save your money. The most important rule in choosing an account to deposit your funds is to make sure it’s easily accessible. This means do not invest your emergency fund into stocks, bonds, IRAs, or 401Ks; you don’t want to be cashing in bonds to pay for a trip to the emergency room. The most common choices are Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)-insured savings or checking accounts or a

combination of both. This means that if your bank goes out of business or loses your money, you are protected against that loss. Banks are not mandated to be FDIC-insured, but it’s become a point of competition among many. Another thing to consider is interest. Despite the aforementioned terrible rates, not all accounts are created equal; there are banks that offer upwards of 2 percent. Lastly, look for accounts that have no or low minimum balances, as well as ones that do not have annual or monthly fees. Some banks charge you simply for the privilege of opening a savings account.

How Much Should Be in My Emergency Fund?

The short answer, and general rule of thumb, is six months’ worth of expenses. The long answer? It depends on a number of factors, including how much debt you have and the stability of your income. A larger emergency fund (nine to 12 months) may be warranted if your income is variable or uncertain. However, no matter what your goal, you want to commit. “Too many parents are worried that they won’t be able to save the ten to fifteen percent of their income many experts recommend, so they do not even start,” Christensen says. “Initially, committing to save something (even five dollars) is more important than the amount you are saving.” The foundation of financial well-being is knowing what you’re spending your money on. If you don’t know how much you spend per month, you’ll need to create a budget and reduce expenses. Michele Lee Fine, president of Cornerstone Wealth Advisory in Manhattan and a financial representative with Guardian Life Insurance in Jericho, has tips for cutting expenses. “[First], examine current bills. See where the money is going and think of cutting out extras and finding cheaper alternatives. [Next], pay with cash. There’s something about the tactile quality of cash that makes it hard to part with. [Finally], adjust your habits. All of us have habits that we fall into that can be revised and made more financially healthy,” she says. If you have debts with interest rates higher than 10 percent, you should “focus the bulk of your discretionary cash on paying down your debts,” Christensen advises. “But still contribute something— even five or twenty-five dollars a month.” Figuring how to create an emergency fund can be scary; after all, the word “emergency” is in the name. However, the benefits of having one—financial, emotional, mental—all outweigh the slight headache that comes with budgeting and saving.

Niko Vercelletto is a New York native. His work can be found in publications such as Popular Mechanics, Realtor.com, NYMetroParents, and CityGuideNY.

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

family life real estate

Time to Sell?

››

Experts share the top 9 things you should do in your home if you’re getting ready to put it on the market. By Lambeth Hochwald

If you’re getting ready to sell your house, experts suggest boosting the curb appeal by cleaning up the yard and making sure planters are full of flowering plants.

elling your home is stressful. In addition to loads of paperwork and prepping your kids for a new neighborhood, you have to present your house in its best light. This is where the experts come in—to help prioritize fix-ups and offer staging tips to make your home as attractive as possible to potential buyers.

a licensed real estate salesperson with the Friedman team at Compass in NYC. “In addition, if you’ve painted rooms a certain color that feels tired, repaint in nice, light, neutral colors. You can’t go wrong with white.”

Do a walk through—with a critical eye.

You may have ignored certain flaws in your home, but a potential buyer won’t be pleased with the cracked paint or drippy faucet. Now’s the time to make a room-to-room punch list of what needs to be fixed before the first open house, says Ted Karagannis, a real estate broker at Warburg Realty in New York City.

“I buy a fresh set of white towels and bathmats from Target and I don’t wash them so they remain fresh looking,” says Katy Winter, a professional organizer and founder of Katy’s Organized Home in Chappaqua, who adds that it’s super important for your home to smell good during walk-throughs. She recommends lighting scented candles or baking some chocolate chip cookies.

Clean from ceiling to floor.

Declutter and streamline décor.

“Use this as an opportunity to dust off that chandelier or ceiling fan you’ve neglected for years,” advises Shawn Wilson, a real estate broker at Compass Real Estate in NYC. “Wash the walls and baseboards. Clean the kitchen, especially the stove and refrigerator, to make the place look as turn-key as possible.”

Make easy DIY upgrades.

“Doing things like changing knobs on cabinets and closets can be a powerful way to create contrast and heighten a space,” says Nicolas Paredes, a broker at Warburg. “I like to stick with simple, organic color palettes like brushed nickel or ceramic knobs.”

Avoid doing major projects.

Undertaking major overhauls is not advisable, says Alison Bernstein, founder and president of Suburban Jungle, a real estate and lifestyle advisory firm dedicated to helping young families leave urban homes for suburban ones. “You are better off taking a discount rather than investing in additional construction or renovation costs as your tastes may very well be different than those of the potential buyers.”

Remove the outdated.

Get rid of window treatments, light fixtures, and any oversized furniture that isn’t retro in a cool way, says Lewis Friedman,

Draw inspiration from hotels.

“Buyers want to feel like the house is move-in ready, and this is especially important when it comes to kitchen and bathroom counters that shouldn’t be stacked with items that will look messy and disorganized,” Winter says. “Also, always keep bookshelves as simple and accessory-free as possible. Try to stay with the same color story—either display whites and neutrals or blues and grays.”

Refresh your outdoor space.

Outdoor space is the first impression of your home. Make sure your lawn looks shipshape and your planters are full of flowering plants. “You’ll want to take a close look at your front door, too, and make sure it’s painted in a fresh, inviting color,” Winter says. “And always put away outdoor clutter, whether that’s a bunch of scooters and bikes or grungy garbage cans.”

Focus on the light.

“Floor lamps or torchieres are a great way to shoot light up at the ceiling and then reflect it back down again,” says Steven Gottlieb, a broker at Warburg. “Those lights will enhance your walls, so make sure that every single wall is bright and clean. A fresh coat of paint will not only eliminate possible cracks from an older paint job, but lighter colors reflect the light and make rooms seem bigger, cleaner, and brighter.”

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

LongIslandParent 39

raising kids baby

My Baby Hates Tummy Time! ›› All of your questions about this activity for infants are answered. By Emma Steven

f your baby hates tummy time, you’re not alone. We talked to the experts to find out why pediatricians recommend it, and the answers to the most-common tummy time questions.

What is tummy time? It’s the activity of placing your newborn baby on its stomach when he’s awake and supervised, according to the American Academy of Pediatricians. The AAP views this time as important as putting your baby on her back to sleep. Who should do it? All infants, unless instructed by a pediatrician, should be doing some form of tummy time as soon as they get home from the hospital, says Catherine Workman, M.D., developmental pediatrician at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone in Manhattan. “It doesn’t have to be a long amount of time at once, particularly at the beginning,” she says. “Start with just three to five minutes at a time and work up.” Isn’t putting an infant on his tummy dangerous? It’s complicated. In 1992, the AAP launched its Back to Sleep campaign, announcing what many pediatricians had believed for years: Putting a baby to sleep on his stomach was dangerous. The AAP recommended all babies sleep on their backs until the age of 1. Back to Sleep led to a dramatic reduction in the amount of SIDS deaths but an increase in anxiety in parents about baby being on her stomach. A 1995 study in the Journal of Pediatric Medicine found that a quarter of parents never put their babies on their front to play due to fear of SIDS. However, putting baby in this position is perfectly safe as long as he is awake and supervised. Why does my infant need tummy time? After the Back to Sleep campaign, doctors and physiotherapists began to notice it was taking babies a little longer to reach some developmental milestones such as sitting up, rolling over, and crawling. Studies also showed an increase in the number of babies with a condition called plagiocephaly, or flat spots on their head, caused by spending most of their time lying on their backs. After concerns were raised in 2003, the AAP made the recommendation that all babies should be placed on their tummies as much as possible when they are awake, and the term tummy time was officially born. The AAP then coined the phrase Back to Sleep, Tummy to Play. “Tummy time sets you up for strengthening and coordination,” 40

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

says Amanda Math, MPT, C-SIPT, physical therapist and coowner of Jumping Jax Speech, Physical and Occupational Therapy, which has locations in Manhattan and Westchester County. Math treats babies and young children with developmental delays and is passionate about the benefits of daily tummy time. “When you strengthen those head-neck muscles, upper back muscles, and shoulder muscles early on, you’re going to start to get some head control, which points you in the direction of achieving all of your early developmental milestones.” How often do I do it? Whenever your infant isn’t feeding or sleeping, look for opportunities to put her on her stomach (under your supervision). The key is to start early, do it for frequent, short periods of time, and build up time gradually. “By four or five months you want them on their tummy for forty minutes to an hour a day cumulatively,” Math says. My baby is so busy sleeping, eating, and napping; how do I fit tummy time in? A common misconception is tummy time is a specific activity that’s scheduled every day at a set time. In fact, the best way to approach it is to build it into whatever you’re doing with your baby during the day (and night!). Anytime baby is leaning on his stomach counts. My baby screams so much, what do I do? Remember the old parenting adage: this too shall pass. “As the baby gets stronger, they will like the time more,” Dr. Workman says. “Kids eventually learn to roll over. Once they’re rolling over on their own it’s less of an issue, so it’s a time-limited problem.” When your baby gets upset during tummy time, it can be hard to distinguish between minor discomfort and distress, but you know your baby best. Math recommends watching for central nervous system reactions such as his face turning red, or holding his breath. A bit of frustration and discomfort at the beginning is normal, but don’t push a distressed baby. “Get down on your tummy yourself,” she says. “It’s hard when we put them down and they sense that we’re far away from them. Modified positions are great to help, and then you just do whatever you can. You sing songs, you’re silly, you move that rattle, and just do your best to encourage it because it really sets them up to be in the best developmental position.”

My baby has reflux, do I still have to do it? As a mother of two babies who suffered from severe reflux, I can still remember how difficult tummy time was. Lying down flat caused them to throw up and cry in pain, sometimes at the same time! Dr. Workman recommends having tummy time after a nap so a long period has passed since the last feeding. Math suggests using modified positions like using a bolster or on a caregiver’s chest as more reflux-friendly versions. My mom friend says her pediatrician told her not to force it if her baby hates it, but mine says it’s essential. Who is right? Although most experts recommend tummy time, there are some who view it as unnecessary and suggest parents instead let babies reach milestones in their own time. Studies suggest the delays in development are transient and resolve by 18 months. Michel Cohen, M.D., is a pediatrician with more than 25 years of experience and is founder of Tribeca Pediatrics. He is known for a low-intervention approach. His view? We should be letting babies develop their own muscles at their own pace. “Why are we tampering with nature?” he says, adding tummy time can even create more stress for parents: “The baby can end up liking it,” he says. “And they have a problem because now you have a two-month-old who likes being on his belly.” In his 2004 parenting book, The New Basics: A-Z Baby and Childcare for the Modern Parent, his simple, yet controversial, advice is, if baby hates it, skip it. “Since there’s no need to strengthen any specific muscle group, I advise you not to act as Lucy’s personal trainer. Skip the tummy time and tickle her tummy so she’ll exercise her giggling muscles instead.” As with everything in parenting, deciding what’s right for your child is a personal decision made between you and your pediatrician. Emma Steven is a British freelance writer living in Manhattan with her husband, two small kids, and two cats.

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Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS ISLAND ORTHODONTICS-HORIZON ORTHODONTICS Dr. Scott Friedman 1150 Portion Road No. 13, Holtsville 631-698-2424 Find us on Facebook: @horizonorthodontics Our practice’s top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. We utilize the latest technological advances in the industry, such as invisible ceramic braces and Invisalign®, along with the latest in computer technology. 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 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. STONY BROOK CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC VOIDING IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (VIP) 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.

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.

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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 legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost.

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.

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 in teaching children cognitive skills to focus and remain calm. Specializing in challenges related to behavior, academic learning, and social-emotional development. ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN 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, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Nassau: 516216-1791 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. MARRA & GLICK APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSTS 1737 Veterans Memorial Highway, Suite 1, Islandia 2341 New Hyde Park Road, New Hyde Park 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. 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.

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-winning customer service and first-rate instruction to families island-wide. Call for a confidential consultation. ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITYST. PATRICK TUTORING CENTER St. Patrick Church, 280 E. Main St., Smithtown 631-724-1261 stpatsyouth.com spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick Tutoring Center is here to assist your learner from grades kindergarten to 12th with Catholic Entrance Exam Prep, SAT, Regents, or daily schoolwork. ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITYYOUTH ENRICHMENT LEARNING CENTER 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. SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER OF HUNTINGTON 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-424-5600 locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/ huntington-ny sylvanlearning@optonline.net Sylvan of Huntington offers personalized tutoring programs in reading, writing, mathematics, 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.

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

LongIslandParent 43

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT @ PLAY AMUSEMENTS 229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com

Have your next party at the newly renovated @ Play Amusements! It offers 40,000-square-feet of fun ranging from 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, a roller coaster, a carousel, a disco room, and laser tag!

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 nonstop excitement in a private party atmosphere.

CELEBRATIONS IN THE KITCHEN 63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen.com celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com

The most unique, fun-filled, joyous event! We have created a true baking experience for everyone to enjoy, including sugar cookie baking, all about pizza, cupcakes from scratch, doughnuts, 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 cshfha.org steved@cshfha.org

Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium! See the Hatchery & Aquarium’s exciting live exhibits. Feed the hungry trout and learn about fish, reptiles, and amphibians with an up-close animal encounter.

GRAVITY VAULT MELVILLE INDOOR ROCK GYM 40 Melville Park Road 516-777-9255 gravityvault.com/locations/melville-ny melville@gravityvault.com 44

Climbing is a great way to celebrate your birthday! Our awesome climbing parties give kids an exciting day they will never forget! Offering different party package options to accommodate your needs.

GREAT STRIDES LONG ISLAND 41 Coram-Swezeytown Road, Middle Island 631-786-9708 greatstridesli.org julie@greatstridesli.org

Lasso some birthday fun at Great Strides Long Island. We offer a relaxed picnic atmosphere (indoor facility is available), farm animals, and a horse ride—all for a reasonable price. Email julie@greatstridesli.org for more information.

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 will captivate groups of all ages and interests. Choose from exciting themes, value packages, and customization options to create a birthday adventure they’ll remember forever!

KARTS INDOOR RACEWAY 701 Union Parkway, Ronkonkoma 631-737-5278 karts1.com info@karts1.com

Karts offers a variety of options for kids and adults starting at age 4 (40 inches tall). Whether it be racing, laser tag, or one of our other great activities, our unforgettable parties are loved by both kids and parents.

KEY TO MY ART, INC. 10 W. Oak St., Amityville 131 Main St., East Rockaway 877-539-2278 keytomyart.com

At Key to My Art, our children’s paint parties include all supplies from aprons to easels. The guest of honor picks the theme, we provide the instruction, and each guest leaves with a finished painting!

LONG ISLAND AQUARIUM 431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH20 (426), 631-208-

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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

9200 x125 longislandaquarium.com

Have your child’s birthday party at the Long Island Aquarium. Party options include a choice of private rooms, select food items, and an ice cream cake. All parties get a guided tour, special seating at the Sea Lion Show, and rides on the submarine simulator!

LONG ISLAND DUCKS Bethpage Ballpark 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip 631-940-DUCK (3825) liducks.com

Imagine the excitement when your child stands on the dugout with QuackerJack while the crowd sings ‘Happy Birthday!’ Their name will be displayed on the scoreboard and announced. Package includes box seats and a meal. Guests will have fun in the kids zone inflatable area.

LONG ISLAND EXPLORIUM 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson 631- 331-3277 longislandexplorium.org

Celebrate your birthday at the LI Explorium. Enjoy 90 minutes to two hours of exciting, interactive activities. Select a theme from our four well-loved STEM challenges and give your friends the most memorable birthday party ever. Packages available. Call to reserve your best party today!

LONG ISLAND NETS NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale longisland.gleague.nba.com

Long Island Nets birthday party packages are a great way to celebrate your next birthday. Receive exclusive gear and birthday 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 beyond. Choose from our treasury of super imaginative projects or use favorite themes and activities as a creative springboard.

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! Birthdays at Picasso Kidz are truly unique and memorable. We have many packages and options to choose from for ages 2-17.

SAF-T-SWIM SCHOOL Suffolk: 3500 Veterans Memorial Highway, Bohemia 631-580-2825 6136 Jericho Turnpike, Commack 631-462-9696 Located inside New York Sports Club 1850 NY-112, Coram 631-736-6604 1015 Grand 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

Saf-T-Swim pool parties are never rained out! Our year-round parties include 24 guests, a private party room, pool time, a lifeguard, invitations, and pizza.

SPLISH SPLASH 2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton 631-727-3600 splishsplashlongisland.com Splish Splash makes birthday party planning a piece of cake! Enjoy admission to the park and lunch! Let our staff members make your day stress-free. Book your party today!

STUDIO E ART CLASSES 565 Route 25A, Miller Place 631-744-4001 studioeartclass.com/parties

Studio E Art Classes offers two economical party options! “The Bash” Starting at only $290 and “The Extravaganza” starting at only $420! View details at studioeartclass.com/parties.

THOMAS SCHOOL OF HORSEMANSHIP RIDING ACADEMY 250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840 tshcamp.com tsh@tshcamp.com

Birthday parties, scout parties, and class trips are always a blast at the Thomas School of Horsemanship. For groups of 14-18 children. They receive one hour of riding time.

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

Hofstra Summer Camps ............................ 23

Island Orthodontics .................................... 10

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery ............ 26

LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................ 23

Pediatric Immediate Care................... 35, 41

Great Strides Long Island .......................... 26

Mid Island Air - Aero Camp ...................... 26

Tooth Pillow Dentistry (The) ........................ 35

Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition

SoLuna Studio.............................................. 24

Center ......................................................... 35

Sportime ...................................................... 41

Long Island Ducks ........................................ 3

Studio E Art Classes..................................... 25

Long Island Explorium ................................ 11

TJE Dance Force ........................................ 25

music

Splish Splash ................................................ 41

Village East Gifted ..................................... 25

Great South Bay Music Fest ........................ 7

Sportime ...................................................... 41

YMCA of Long Island ................................... 5

Studio E Art Classes..................................... 25

home services GCH Designs and Services ........................ 21

performing arts / acting

dance

Gateway Playhouse .................................. 11

camps

Huntington Center of Performing Arts ..... 26

SoLuna Studio.............................................. 24

Art League Of Long Island ........................ 26

Posey School of Dance ............................. 26

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery ............ 26

TJE Dance Force ........................................ 25

Destination Science ................................... 21 Extreme STEAM Science Kids .................... 23 Future Stars - Old Westbury ....................... 37 Gateway Playhouse .................................. 11 GCH Designs and Services ........................ 21 Great Strides Long Island .......................... 26

developmental Alternatives for Children .............................. 7 Building Blocks Montessori.......................... 35 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech..................................................... 3, 35

play spaces Splish Splash ................................................ 41

special events Great South Bay Music Fest ........................ 7 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center ......................................................... 35 Long Island Ducks ........................................ 3

Hofstra Summer Camps ............................ 23

education

Long Island Explorium ................................ 11

Huntington Center of Performing Arts ..... 26

Alternatives for Children .............................. 7

Patchogue Theatre .................................... 21

Kids Country Day Camp ........................... 12

Building Blocks Montessori.......................... 35

Spartan Kids................................................... 3

Knox School (The) - Summer Adventures .... 23

Kids Country Day Camp ........................... 12

LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................ 23

Knox School (The) - Summer Adventures ..... 23

Long Island Explorium ................................ 11

LIU Center for Gifted Youth........................ 23

Mid Island Air - Aero Camp ...................... 26

Village East Gifted ..................................... 25

Posey School of Dance ............................. 26 SoLuna Studio.............................................. 24 Sportime ...................................................... 41 St. Patrick Youth Community .................... 25 Studio E Art Classes..................................... 25 TJE Dance Force ........................................ 25 Village East Gifted ..................................... 25 YMCA of Long Island ................................... 5 Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Camps - Suffolk ...... 48

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Pediatric Immediate Care................... 35, 41

Gateway Playhouse .................................. 11

Tooth Pillow Dentistry (The) ........................ 35

Great South Bay Music Fest ........................ 7 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center ......................................................... 35 Long Island Ducks ........................................ 3 Long Island Explorium ................................ 11 Northwell Health Ice Center/ NY Islander .... 12

Alternatives for Children .............................. 7

Spartan Kids................................................... 3

Building Blocks Montessori.......................... 35

Splish Splash ................................................ 41

classes

Great Strides Long Island .......................... 26

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery ............ 26

Patchogue Theatre .................................... 21

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

Alternatives for Children .............................. 7

family entertainment / events / outings Speech..................................................... 3, 35

child care / day care

Kids Country Day Camp ........................... 12

special needs

financial planning / insurance Bethpage Credit Union ............................... 7

sports Future Stars - Old Westbury ....................... 37 Great Strides Long Island .......................... 26 Hofstra Summer Camps ............................ 23 Knox School (The) - Summer Adventures ..... 23 Long Island Ducks ........................................ 3 Northwell Health Ice Center/ NY Islander .... 12 Spartan Kids................................................... 3 Sportime ...................................................... 41 YMCA of Long Island ................................... 5

theater

fitness

Gateway Playhouse .................................. 11

Sportime ...................................................... 41

Patchogue Theatre .................................... 21

GCH Designs and Services ........................ 21

health

tutors

Great Strides Long Island .......................... 26

Fidelis Care New York .................................. 2

First Class Tutoring........................................ 24

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LGBTQ+ Books for Kids

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By Katelin Walling

Come as You Are Jacob and Sophie don’t look like the other boys and girls in their class. They are gender non-conforming: Jacob has long hair and wears a dress to school, while Sophie has short hair and prefers to wear pants. Because of how they look, their peers chase them out of the boys’ and girls’ bathrooms. Jacob’s Room to Choose, by Sarah and Ian Hoffman, helps kids understand gender expression and stereotypes—and asks, if everyone needs to use the bathroom, why can’t bathrooms be for everyone? (Ages 5-8; APA/Magination Press; $17.99)

Parents are Parents Cultivating a culture of acceptance of everyone begins with the littlest citizens. Enter My Two Moms and Me and My Two Dads and Me, both written by Michael Joosten and illustrated by Izak Zenou. These board books celebrate LGBTQ+ parents and show incredible diversity in the families. Most importantly, the books illustrate the fact that children with two moms or two dads have just as much love as kids with a mom and a dad. (Ages newborn to 3; Doubleday; $8.99 each)

History Makers

Coming into Her Own Zenobia July is starting a new chapter in her life. She moves to Maine to live with her aunts after becoming an orphan, starts at a new school, and comes out of her shell to find her own community of new friends. The biggest change for her? She’s now living her life openly as the girl she always knew she was. But when someone anonymously posts hateful memes on the school’s website, Zen, who used to spend all her time coding and hacking, knows she’s the only one able to solve the cyber mystery. (Ages 10 and older; Viking; $17.99)

June 2019 | nymetroparents.com

The 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising is being commemorated in numerous ways this year, the biggest of which is the fact that New York City was chosen to host WorldPride this month. Another way the uprising is being honored? With Rob Sanders’ Stonewall: A Building. An Uprising. A Revolution. This picture book—told from the perspective of Stonewall Inn—takes readers through the history and significance of the Greenwich Village building that started out as a horse stable in the 1840s and is now part of the National Historic Monument, the first of which that honors the LGBTQ+ community. (Ages 5-8; Random House Children’s Books; $17.99)

s t n e r a P o r t e M Y N s d i K r e v Co

t s e t n Co 10 FINALISTS WILL BE ON OUR COVERS! 2 Easy Steps to Enter: 1. Go to nymetroparents.com/covercontest or facebook.com/nymetroparents 2. Upload your favorite photo (.jpg or .png) of your child (ages 2-16)

Prizes for Winners â&#x2DC;&#x2026; Family Vacation at Great Wolf Lodge â&#x2DC;&#x2026; Barbizon Scholarship &

Photo Shoot

Contest runs 5/20/19 - 6/12/19

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For a complete list of rules: nymetroparents.com/covercontestrules LongIslandParent 47

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