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LongIsland SUFFOLK EDITION

Parent SEPTEMBER 2017

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Back to School! After-School Activities • How much is too much? • Find the best programs

10 Tips for Easy Meal Planning Save time, money, and stress

Gifted Kids Is my child a genius or just plain smart?

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

LongIslandParent

When your little angel thinks heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a daredevil...

Better have a good pediatrician. Make sure your kids are covered. Call 866.247.5678 (TTY 711) To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777.

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LongIslandParent

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

September 2017 ››

Features

14 Cover Stars Meet the finalists and winners of our 2017 cover contest.

16 Extracurricular vs. Extra Downtime When it comes to scheduling after-school activities, how much is too much? 42 10 Tips to Master Meal Planning Spend time once a week to create a menu, and you’ll save time, money, and stress. 44 Is My Kid a Genuis? How to tell if your child is gifted, a prodigy, or just plain smart 46 Left Behind Tips to help your younger child cope when an older sibling goes to college

48 Lunch Treats Made Healthier Two recipes for desserts you won’t feel guilty about sending to school.

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 11 NYMP Q&A: Parenting expert Sarah Ockwell-Smith talks discipline. 27 Spotlight on Stony Brook to Riverhead 54 Voices: The Lesson of the Pizza Bowl Fail

Fun & Activities

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

12 13 13 28 31 40

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

DIY Corner: Why Is the Sky Blue? Media Matters: Homework Helping Apps Beat the Back-to-School Blues at LI Parents Day Outing: Roosevelt Island Family Activities Calendar Where-To Guide: Pick Your Own Apples

Directories 20 49 50 51 52 53

Back-to-School Directory Party Central Professional Services Open Houses Meet the Health Care Professional Advertisers’ Index

››

ON THE COVER ›› After-School Activities: 16 How Much is too Much? 20 Find the Best Programs 42 10 Tips for Easy Meal Planning facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

44 Gifted Kids

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

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NYMetroParents

LongIslandParent

SEPTEMBER 2017 • Vol.9 • No.4

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling

EDITOR’S NOTE

DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERNS: Jamie Bonchick, Julia Hyman, Amanda Marrone

New Beginnings, New Routines

To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents

ere we are, another school year upon us! Some of you, I’m sure, are rejoicing at the return to routine, while others are probably misty-eyed at another summer ending. I am somewhere in between, feeling wistful at the speed with which time passes yet excited for the opportunities my kids will face in the coming academic year—not to mention the comforting (for us parents, at least) return to a full and predictable schedule. In our family, however, deciding on the kids’ schedules can be a challenge. There are so many after-school activities to choose from and my kids are excited about exploring multiple interests. There are times when I feel as if they are so busy with extracurricular programs they don’t have enough time for their homework or to study for tests—let alone to relax, play, and socialize. So for this back-to-school issue, we turned to the experts and asked: When it comes to after-school activities, how much is too much? In our seemingly over-programmed culture, the answer may surprise you (p. 16). And if you are looking for great programs in your neighborhood, check out or back-to-school directory (p. 20). For some families, this time of year marks a more dramatic transition: a child leaving for college. It’s a momentous milestone, of course, but for a younger sibling still at home, it can bring challenges and difficult emotions. To help, we look at how parents can help their younger kids navigate the new realities at home (p. 46). Also in this issue, meet our 2017 Kids Cover Contest finalists and winners (p. 14)! We received a record number of submissions this year, and choosing finalists from these amazingly cute kids was a challenge. I’m sure you’ll agree, though, that our finalists and winners are bursting with personality, ﬂashing smiles that will light up our covers during the year ahead (including this month’s cover!). Speaking of our magazine cover, you might have noticed something different: our new logo. We love the sleek, updated look and are excited to show it off. And be sure to check out our website, nymetroparents.com, to see our just-launched redesign! Lastly, if you’re looking for a great way to spend a Sunday this month, join us for Long Island Parents Day on Sept. 17. See p. 13 for more details on this fun, informative event for the whole family. Michael Kress Editorial Director

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Keep in Touch: 7 @nymetroparents nymetroparents.com September 2017 | nymetroparents.com 6editor@nymetroparents.com

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN •ROCKLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2017, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

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Who: Act As If Etiquette & Protocol What’s New: Venues in Northport and Oyster Bay, at which children ages 4 and older can take etiquette classes starting in October. Act As If Etiquette & Protocol serves children and adults through kids’ etiquette classes, young adult programs, and adult workshops. Parents can also host private or group age-appropriate etiquette lessons led by Joan Jerkens, owner of Act As If Etiquette & Protocol. “In this highly competitive world, the one who demonstrates good manners and social skills will have a distinct advantage,” Jerkens says. Want More Info: 561-889-4464; actasif.etiquette@aol.com; actasifetiquette.com

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Etiquette Business Adds Venues in Northport and Oyster Bay

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol strives to teach modern manners for modern times by helping students develop necessary social skills.

Who: Key to My Art What’s New: Fashion illustration and art history classes for children, plus paint-and-sip classes for adults, all of which were added this month. The hour-long children’s classes run in two-month sessions and have rolling enrollment. Fashion illustration is for children ages 8-13 while art history caters to ages 6-9. Adult paint-and-sip classes will be held twice per month. Key to My Art offers classes, workshops, art camp, and birthday parties for children ages 3-18. Owner Riesa Fischer is a New York state-certified art teacher who has experience working with children with special needs. Want More Info: 10 W. Oak St., Amityville; 631-608-9048; info@keytomyart.com; keytomyart.com

Courtesy Key to My Art

Amityville Art Studio Adds Classes

Key to My Art offers classes and workshops as well as special events for children and adults.

Who: The Food Wizard For Kids What’s New: Workshops, counseling, and events to help families learn about and enjoy healthy eating. Gemma Saylor, a registered dietitian nutritionist, launched The Food Wizard For Kids in April. “I wanted to make food and nutrition fun,” Saylor says. The Food Wizard For Kids offers workshops to introduce children to healthy foods, family night dinners during which everyone comes together to create a nutritious meal, and moms’ night out during which parents make fruit and vegetable appetizers while asking their nutrition questions. Saylor also offers healthy weight counseling for families and speaking engagements. Want More Info: Based on Long Island; 631-606-2680; info@thefoodwizardforkids.com; thefoodwizardforkids.com

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Charlotte Saylor

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Offers Services for Families

Gemma Saylor, aka “The Food Wizard For Kids,” is a registered dietitian nutritionist dedicated to helping families.

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Virus from a kiss. It is important for us remember that this o one knows your child liketoyou, and no type of transmission to a newborn and extent of disease is an one can take care ofalso himimportant or her medically extremely rare occurrence. It is to understand likeweyour pediatrician. how as parents can do our best to prevent HSV transmission. There 2 typesdoctor of HerpesisSimplex infection; which Anare Allied on-call at allHSV-1 times usually causes cold sores and fever blisters on the mouth and we want to most hear from you. herpes. lips, andand HSV-2 which causes cases of genital According to the World Health Organization close It is sometimes hard for parents to know to if a70% of people under the age of 50 are infected with HSV-1. sick child needs to be seen right away, or ifApproxiit is mately 16% of people age 14-49 test positive for HSV-2.

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Herpes in 3,500 babies in the United knowsaffects your about child 1best. Most things can waitStates each year. Transmission to a newborn can occur either in utero until morning, and labor manyand times is a benefit (extremely rare), during birth,there or after birth. During in waiting. Call and we will help you figure labor or birth is the most common way that a newbornout can acquire virus. After birth, parentchild. or another family member the the best treatment fora your or friend can pass the virus to the newborn as occurred in this case. Unfortunately, most people and can shed the virus in their Emergency Room doctors Urgicare saliva without any symptoms, though sometimes they will have providers are unknown entities, many of whom a cold sore on their lips.

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pediatrician has your child’s complete • Your Fever Allied (100.4 or greater – rectally) • Poor feeding • Irritability history, including allergies, • medical Itching and/or burning around the mouth ormedications, lips (Does your child away andand beginconsults crying during breastfeeding, or when pastpull illnesses from specialists. the lips or mouth come in contact with an object, or when you This information paints a picture of your child touch them?) • Floppiness (of the body) • Redness of the gums allows us lymph to provide bestsores care.(on, inside or • that Swollen, tender glandsthe • Cold around the lips and/or mouth; may also occur on the face)

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UOTABLES Perhaps I shouldn’t be so surprised that the girl who desperately wanted to live in a world of her own—but ultimately chose reality—would become the mother to a child who doesn’t see the difference between the two. —Kathy Radigan, in a post entitled “The Way My Special Daughter Told Me She Loves Me,” on her blog mydishwasherspossessed.com

in an instagram Summer reading is alive & well over here at #CampThirtymommy What are your little ones reading this summer? #AveryRoyce #LaylahJonelle (Posted by @thirtymommy, aka Scherrie D., who blogs at thirtymommy.com)

MOTHER-DAUGHTER WEEKEND

in an instagram after our school’s meet and greet picnic for the new students #iloveny #nyckids #friends #nyc #nycsummer #summer #childhoodunplugged #thisisourclassroom #nycpublicschools (Posted by @familyroadtraveled, aka Estée Pouleris, who blogs at familyroadtraveled.com)

“I once asked a friend who has three young boys, ‘Are you and your wife closer now that you have kiddos?’ He simply said, ‘Of course! It’s us against them.’ Now that I’m a mom, I know what he meant. It’s true.” —Olivia Jeanette, in a post entitled “How Our Marriage Has Changed Since Having a Baby,” on her blog oliviajeanette.com

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

“Some days, nothing you do, or offer to do, is right. My 14-year-old daughter, Amelia, a good kid by any definition, jumps out of the car before I’ve even come to a complete stop at the home of her BFF of the week, and doesn’t look back. She stiffens a little when I hug her, remarking, ‘Mom, you’re like really close to my face right now.’ Together time is now largely limited to mani-pedis—if she can bring a friend.” —Christina Verceletto in “I Took a 14-Year-Old YouTube Addict to Niagara Falls.” Read the article at nymetroparents. com/mother-daughter-weekend.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: FREE FUN: Visit museums and zoos without paying (nymetroparents.com/free). FAIRS & FESTIVALS: Where to go in the late summer and fall (nymetroparents.com/fairs) GO FOR THE GOLD: Check out our interview with Olympic Gold Medalist Gabby Douglas (nymetroparents/gabby-douglas). FALL GUIDE: How to make the most of autumn (nymetroparents.com/fall-guide)

NYMP Q&A

Sarah Ockwell-Smith is a parenting expert and founder of gentleparentinginternational.com. She recently published Gentle Discipline: Using Emotional Connection—Not Punishment— to Raise Confident, Capable Kids.

›› By Bethany Braun-Silva Claire Moir Photography

Be Gentle

What are some misconceptions parents have about disciplining their kids? There are three main misconceptions parents have around child behavior and discipline. One, far too many parents expect children to act like adults. They expect quite sophisticated thought processes and neurological regulation that children just don’t have yet because their brains are not fully developed. A good example is expecting a toddler to not tantrum or to be able to calm down in the middle of a tantrum. Toddlers tantrum because they have really poor emotion regulation skills. They can’t control their emotions like we can as adults—they’re not being naughty, just being toddlers! Two, most mainstream discipline methods work on the presumption that kids need to be motivated to “do better.” In fact, most kids are motivated to do better. They don’t want to get in trouble or upset you. Most misbehave because they can’t do better. The motivation is there already, it’s the ability that is missing. Three, another problem with mainstream discipline is, it focuses strongly on punishing and shaming kids. The thing is, a major cause of poor behavior is a lack of self-esteem in kids. If they feel bad, they’ll act bad. What tips do you have for parents when they feel they are about to lose their temper? I think it’s important that we have realistic expectations of our own behavior. Everybody screws up as a parent and everybody loses their temper sometimes, including myself. Stop trying to be perfect. Accept that anger and losing control are normal parts of life as a parent and it doesn’t mean that you’re not good at it! What is important is keeping a check on your own emotions. Being mindful of how you’re feeling, trying to reduce triggers and taking a break to recharge when you feel frazzled. When you feel that you just can’t take any more, you need an emergency break from your kids. Maybe a day with friends, going for a run—whatever it is that replenishes and relaxes you. What’s your take on “time-outs?” Time-outs work on the idea that separating the child from yourself and their peers punishes them for their wrongdoing and makes them think about what they’ve done wrong. This time in quiet contemplation is meant to make the child behave more appropriately next time. Unfortunately, none of these assumptions are true. Young kids don’t have the brain development for such sophisticated thought, they don’t have a developed sense of empathy, they can’t think about future actions, and they can’t control their behavior anywhere near as much as adults think they can. Another huge problem with time-out is, kids often misbehave because they feel a disconnect with their caregivers. It makes no sense that a child who is desperate for love and attention is further separated—it just makes them feel worse, which in time will make their behavior problems escalate.

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DIY CORNER SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

Why Is the Sky Blue?

It’s a question all have asked. Let’s find the answer!

Time: 10 minutes Materials 1 clear drinking glass or small glass bowl Water Milk Spoon Eyedropper (optional) Bright flashlight Safety Tips and Setup Hints • A white LED flashlight works well with this lab, such as the flashlight in many camera phones. • It helps to see the blue color in the water if the room is darkened as much as possible. Instructions Step 1: Fill the glass or bowl with water until it is mostly full. Step 2: Put a few drops of milk into the water, and stir the water with the spoon. You can use an eyedropper for this, but, if you do not have one, just carefully and slowly pour a few drops of milk from a spoon into the water. Do not pour the milk directly from the carton, as it will likely come out too quickly. Put a little bit of milk into a small bowl, and scoop a few drops into a spoon, then into the water. Step 3: Shine the flashlight through the water. What color do you see? (The color will be fairly light.)

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE FUN Earth’s air is made of several gases. Most of it is nitrogen, about 78 percent, about 21 percent is oxygen, there is a little bit of a gas called argon, a little water vapor, and very small amounts of gases, such as carbon dioxide and others. While our eyes can’t see the individual bits of gases, called atoms or molecules, we can feel them when the wind blows. The amounts of these gases change depending on the seasons, the altitude, the weather, whether there has been a volcanic eruption, or other reasons, but these are generally the amounts we measure. The light from the Sun is made of many colors, and we can see those colors when we split the Sun’s white light using a prism. When white light hits the gas molecules, most of the light—such as the reds, oranges, and yellows—is able to move its way through the molecules and pass to the ground to your eyes. However, the blue light is scattered around by the gases. It is this scattered blue light we see as a blue sky. In this lab, the big particles of milk in the water acted like the particles of air, scattering the blue light from the ﬂashlight. You can try playing with the amount of milk in the water and the type of ﬂashlight until you get the easiest blue color to see.

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In Theaters Sept. 22: The Lego Ninjago Movie Parents need to know that The Lego Ninjago Movie is based on the funny, popular, actionpacked TV show about Lego ninjas. In this adventure, teenage warrior Lloyd (voiced by Dave Franco) must save his beloved land of Ninjago from evil warlord Garmadon (Justin Theroux), who just happens to be his father. With the help of his five friends and fellow ninjas—and under the guidance of Sensei Wu (Jackie Chan)—Lloyd sets out to defeat his bad-guy dad. Expect bloodless action and fighting and possibly some crude humor.

Our Partner: Common Sense Media An independent nonprof it that helps families make smart media choices. Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

Beat the Back-toSchool Blues at LI Parents Day ››

Fun activities for kids while Mom and Dad find out about after-school programs, doctors, and other useful resources

ids may drag their feet when they bid farewell to summer and return to school, but here’s something to cheer them up this month. Our annual LI Parents Day will be held on Sunday, Sept. 17, and aims to make back-to-school season fun and exciting. While kids participate in classes and activities, parents will meet with local businesses, including after-school programs and doctors, to help make the transition to a new school year easier. This year, we also are introducing a new Special Needs Alley, a section dedicated to families of children with special needs. At LI Parents Day, kids will play in a Kids Corner and participate in activities such as a live reptile demonstration, a Zumba class, a bounce house, a robotics demonstration, and much more!

While they’re busy having fun, parents can meet with more than 50 back-to-school exhibitors, including after-school programs, birthday party venues, special-needs providers, and health and wellness professionals. Tickets are $10 per family, which covers two adults and as many as four children. Every family who attends will receive a free goodie bag filled with fun samples, courtesy of exhibitors and us, NYMetroParents! LI Parents Day takes place from 11am-3pm at the Pratt Recreation Center at Long Island University, 720 Northern Blvd. in Brookville. For regular updates on exhibitors and the activity schedule, check liparentsday.com. LongIslandParent 13

Cover Stars!

››

Meet the finalists and winners of our 2017 cover contest.

icking finalists from 2,000 cute entries was quite the challenge for the staff here at NYMetroParents. But once we managed to narrow it down, we invited the finalists to meet for a photo shoot at PhotoOp NYC. All the finalists wore their best smiles and some seriously stylish clothes (thanks, Appaman!) and had a blast shooting with PhotoOp’s awesome photographers. (Unfortunately the 10th finalist was unable to participate.) All of the kids did a great job posing for the camera, but at the end of the day it was 4-year-old Olivia from Nassau County and 11-year-old Victoria from Brooklyn who we selected as the grand-prize winners. Olivia and her family will enjoy a twonight stay at Kalahari Resort in the Poconos to celebrate her big win, while Victoria will receive a scholarship to Barbizon Modeling & Acting Studio. Plus, our Fan Favorite, Sydney, received a family pack of tickets to Sesame Place. You’ll get to see more of these adorable kids in the coming months on our magazine covers!

c Sydney

Age: 5 Hometown: Bronx Sydney loves to dance and wants to be a dentist for kids when she grows up.

FAN FAVORITE

Olivia

GRAND PRIZE WINNER (YOUNGER THAN 6 CATEGORY)

Age: 4 Hometown: Nassau County Olivia loves to swim and wants to be an ophthalmologist when she grows up.

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com Read more about the winners and ﬁnalists and watch a super-cute video of them at nymetroparents.com/ﬁnalists.

Hudson

Age: 4 Hometown: Queens Hudson loves his Thomas trains and wants to be a sanitation worker when he grows up.

Sean

Age: 5 Hometown: Suffolk County Sean loves swimming and wants to be a firefighter, police officer, lifeguard, or astronaut when he grows up.

Emma

Age: 7 Hometown: Westchester Emma loves art and playing soccer and wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up.

Sophie

Age: 9 Hometown: Manhattan Sophie loves to draw comics and play baseball.

c Cameron

Age: 6 Hometown: Manhattan Cameron loves learning and playing soccer.

Ian

Age: 10 Hometown: Rockland County Ian loves playing sports with his friends and studying math.

Victoria

Age: 11 Hometown: Brooklyn Victoria loves everything about Brooklyn and wants to be a teacher when she grows up.

GRAND PRIZE WINNER (6 AND OLDER CATEGORY) LongIslandParent 15

FOCUS ON: ME TIME

Experts say there are many benefits to children of participating in after-school activities—but that me time is also essential for kids’ healthy development.

Extracurriculars vs. Extra Downtime ›› When it comes to scheduling your kids’ after-school activities, how much is too much? By Rosalind Muggeridge

or most of my childhood, my extracurricular schedule consisted of riding my bike to the local YMCA every Saturday morning for a swimming lesson. I’m pretty sure my mom and dad never asked themselves if they were scheduling too much or too little for me. And yet it’s a question parents these days seem to grapple with constantly. I always thought finding the right balance with my own children would be clear, but I can’t deny the pressure I sometimes feel when I hear about my kids’ friends and their weekly schedules: acting class, guitar, gymnastics, tennis, dance, Mandarin. To shed some light on this issue, I turned to local experts who support parents as they navigate matters like this.

What the Research Says

To discuss the balance between scheduled activities and unscheduled me time for kids, it’s important first to ask: Are today’s kids actually overscheduled—or does it just feel that way? A recent paper in the journal Social Policy Report reviewed the research and found more than 80 percent of American children take part in some extracurricular activity, including sports, lessons, or clubs. Approximately 7 million of those are enrolled in after-school programs and many more participate in clubs and organizations such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Girls Inc., according to the report. Even though those numbers may seem high, the same report shows children and adolescents spend an average of only five hours per week participating in organized activities. So, although extracurricular activities get a lot of attention, other activities—screen time, chores, spending time with friends and family, working, and doing homework—occupy as much (and often more) time than organized activities. In other words, it may make more sense to worry about your child’s screen time than about the hours he spends at after-school programs. 16

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

There are, however, cases where overscheduling poses problems for kids. The same research suggests there may be a point of diminishing returns for a small number of young people with very high levels of involvement—meaning, some kids who participate in a multitude of extracurricular activities may see fewer advantages as they take on more and more. For instance, the educational benefits of playing sports seem to level off when kids participate in more than two competitive team sports. Danis Copenhaver, M.D., F.A.A.P., a pediatrician at South Slope Pediatrics in Brooklyn, looks for telltale signs to make sure her young patients aren’t overscheduled. “I make a point to ask every patient and family about mealtimes and sleep,” she says. “A huge red flag for me is if meals are always eaten on the go and if bedtime is inconsistent or very late. In pre-teens and teenagers, I try and assess if they are enjoying the activities they are involved in. Sometimes they will answer honestly in the exam room and it’s the first time the parents are hearing about it. That can lead to a discussion about prioritizing time out of school for family, friends, sports, and activities.” Overall, however, concerns about overscheduling seem to be overblown. Despite what we so often hear in the media, the research shows that only a small number of young people (between 3 and 6 percent) are very highly scheduled, spending 20 or more hours a week taking part in these activities. The same research also points to evidence that kids who participate in organized activities do better than those who don’t. These young people are more likely to have higher academic achievement, finish school, do well in college, be well-adjusted, smoke less, use drugs less often, and interact more with parents. There are fewer overbooked young children now than there used to be, Dr. Copenhaver says. “Parents value and protect the free play time that these younger children need,” she adds, noting, however, that this often depends on the age of the child. “The pre-teen and

teenage crowd tends to be more over-scheduled, due to the pressures of school and extracurricular demands.”

The Beneﬁts of Downtime

Even if kids may not, for the most part, be overscheduled, there are many studies emphasizing the pluses of unscheduled free time for children as well as adults. A 2012 report by Mary Helen Immordino-Yang of the University of Southern California showed that when we are resting, our brains are not actually idle and downtime is essential to many of our mental processes. The report examined related research showing this relaxed time is an opportunity for the brain to make sense of what it has recently learned. Kids need to play and explore, says Sharon Peters, who founded the Brooklyn-based marriage and family counseling practice Parents Helping Parents. She is a big proponent of building downtime into a family’s schedule. For more than 20 years, she has been supporting parents as they raise their children. She also draws from her own personal experiences as a mother of five children, several of whom have special needs. “All group settings or one-on-one lessons with a teacher are demanding in ways that individual time isn’t,” she says. Young kids can’t simply roam the streets alone, Peters notes, but it’s essential to fit into their schedules the type of play that encourages exploration and independence. “A great way to incorporate this for younger children is finding a safe space for them to wander and make decisions on their own,” she says. Her comment rings true for me personally, as I’ve noticed my 2-year-old is at his most relaxed and engaged when he is wandering through Prospect Park in Brooklyn with me following a few feet behind him. Downtime benefits kids of all ages, according to Dr. Copenhaver.

“In younger children ages 2-5 unstructured play time encourages imagination and cooperation. It can also allow them time to rest and recharge, avoiding becoming overstimulated and cranky,” she says. Me time also has specific benefits for older children. “In schoolaged kids, I find that non-scheduled downtime allows them to more deeply explore their likes and develop their talents,” Dr. Copenhaver says. “Some kids develop a love of reading, others find that they still enjoy playing at the park, while others take the time to participate in preparing meals for their family.” She adds that in teens, stress levels decrease and sleep duration and quality usually benefit first from non-scheduled down time.

Finding the Right Balance

Given what we know about the positives of extracurricular activities and also the benefits of downtime, how do we go about finding what works for us? Here are some tips for ensuring your kids experience the right mix of enriching activities and nourishing downtime. Create a schedule that works for your family. Because many children spend too much time using mobile devices and watching TV, the American Association of Pediatrics recommends maintaining at least one hour of physical activity a day and limiting screen time to two hours a day, according to Melanie Wilson-Taylor, M.D., F.A.A.P., also of South Slope pediatrics. “Oftentimes parents are busy with work or taking care of younger children and there can be pressure to make sure that kids are kept busy,” she says. “Many parents often feel the need to compete and make sure their child has access to every extracurricular activity in order to be a better candidate for the next level of school.” continued on next page ››

is Coming to Long Island! Saturday, Sept. 16th | 9:30AM–3:30PM | Northwell Health Ice Center in East Meadow Sunday, Sept. 17th | 10:00AM–1:00PM | NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum The NHL® Centennial Fan Arena is a touring tribute to a century of hockey thrills. This FREE, interactive fan experience includes:

• STANLEY CUP®—have your photo taken with the oldest and most revered trophy in sports • MUSEUM TRUCK—explore the 53-foot museum truck featuring more than 1,000 square feet of interactive digital displays, original video content and one-of-a-kind historical memorabilia showcasing the history of the NHL® and the New York Islanders® • VIDEO TRUCK—walk through a second 53-foot truck that houses a giant video screen featuring team highlights • CLEAR THE ICE ZAMBONI® VR EXPERIENCE—here’s your chance to compete against other fans in a race to resurface the ice. You get to take a seat in a mini Zamboni® ice resurfacer and take your best shot at creating the perfect sheet of ice Plus, on Saturday, fans at Northwell Health Ice Center can watch the Islanders take the ice for the first day of training camp.

Visit nhl.com/fanarena to RSVP.

*On Sunday, Sept. 17th, the parking rules at NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum apply. Anyone attending the NHL® Centennial Fan Arena without a ticket to the New York Islanders pre-season game and parking at NYCB Live, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, will have to pay for parking. NHL, the NHL Shield and the word mark and image of the Stanley Cup are registered trademarks and the NHL Centennial Season logo is a trademark of the National Hockey League. NHL and NHL team marks are the property of the NHL and its teams. © NHL 2017. All Rights Reserved. ZAMBONI and the configuration of the Zamboni Ice resurfacing machine are registered trademarks of Frank J. Zamboni & Co., Inc.

LongIslandParent 17

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

founded in 1974 fo

F k Oh Frank Ohman School of Ballet

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(Former Soloist New York City Ballet)

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Presents Long Island’s largest “Nutcracker” at Hofstra 631-462-6266

www.ohmanballet.org 60 Calvert Avenue, Commack 18

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

‹‹ continued from previous page

Carefully consider what activities are right for your child. Dr. Wilson-Taylor recommends parents ask their child if she enjoys the activity and to consider whether there are true benefits—academic, social, personal development—in it. She cautions that sometimes the amount of time a child spends in an activity is reasonable but the type of activity may not fit the personality of the child. Parents should consider whether their child prefers group or individual activities, for instance, or whether the child will experience undue anxiety of performing in an end-of-year production or recital. “Parents should also be mindful about how extracurricular activities affect the behavior and self-worth,” Dr. Wilson-Taylor says. “If the child is focused on always winning and values themselves based on their ability to succeed in the activity, caregivers should re-evaluate the importance of that activity.” One good rule of thumb she tells her patients: Due to a limited attention span, structured activities for children younger than 6 should be limited to 30 minutes at a time. Older children can tolerate activities that are an hour or two. Look out for the red ﬂags. According to Dr. Wilson-Taylor, temperament and age play a big part in judging whether a child is overscheduled. Some children like participating in activities outside of school or on the weekends and thrive on constantly doing something. Other children are homebodies or prefer unstructured activities. She cautions that “an overscheduled child has more tantrums prior to the activity, may take a long time to get ready, and may outright say ‘no’ to going. Older children may exhibit poor sleep patterns the night before in anticipation of participating in the event the next day. They also may seem more isolated from friends or family because they are always ‘doing something.’” Parents should be concerned if they notice a child is clingier to caregivers, his grades are dropping, or her homework is getting squeezed into small gaps of free time—in the car, on the bus, waking up early before school. “If not attended to, young kids communicate discomfort one way or the other and raise the flag. This could be acting out in school or more tantrums at home,” Peters says. Children may also exhibit stress-induced physical symptoms, some of which can mimic actual illness. “When a child’s day is scheduled down to the minute, they can become stressed, and sometimes manifest physical symptoms of that stress,” Dr. Copenhaver says. “Stomach aches, headaches, and fatigue are common symptoms that children present to my office with, and the problem is sometimes an overloaded schedule without enough down time.” In her practice, she also sees teens complaining of fatigue, and often finds out they are sleeping fewer than five hours a night because of their busy school and after-school schedules. Trust your gut. “Like everything connected to parenting,” Peters says “this issue is very individual to each family.” Ultimately, she says, parents know their children—and since each situation and child is different, parents must rely on their instincts to decide when their child needs fewer after-school activities and more me time. The bottom line: You probably don’t need to worry that your child is overscheduled or that the number of activities in which he participates will have a negative impact on him. However, me time remains an essential part of everyone’s life and plays an important role in children’s development—so make sure to schedule some unscheduled time into your child’s life regularly. This is the second in a two-part series about the importance of downtime. To read last month’s article on me time for moms, see nymetroparents.com/mom-time.

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

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Back-to-School

The annual guide to schools, resources, programs, & activities for kids! Act As If Etiquette & Protocol

718 Walt Whitman Road, Melville 561-889-4464 actasifetiquette.com A leader in teaching the social skills necessary to face everyday situations with grace, integrity, and confidence. We “partner with parents” who understand that in this highly competitive world, along with education, good manners are key to a child’s success. Offering fun, informative, engaging classes for children, teens, and young adults, with the content geared toward modern manners for modern times. Serving Scout troops, libraries, after-school programs, camps, groups, and individuals throughout the LI community.

Allied Physicians Group

3 Huntington Quadrangle, Melville 866-621-2769 alliedphysiciansgroup.com Allied Physicians Group is a partnership of more than 150 dedicated, caring physicians and 650 highly trained support staff, serving more than 180,000 patients throughout Greater New York City, Long Island, Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, and beyond. When you bring your children to an Allied pediatric practice, you know they are getting the very best care. Our doctors have access to resources, technology, and support that other, standalone pediatric practices simply cannot offer. Our doctors have more time for what matters most—you and your child! For more information, visit alliedphysiciansgroup.com or call us at 866-621-2769.

Alternatives For Children

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 S. Service Road, Dix Hills 631-271-0777 14 Research Way, East Setauket 631-331-6400 168 Hill St., Southampton

631-283-3272 alternatives4children.org Providing quality affordable day care and special education services since 1988. Creating a natural learning environment fostering each child’s development. Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education evaluation site and provider. Preschool special education, integrated classes, day care classes taught by NYS special education early childhood teachers, and certified day care staff promoting a child’s development through individualized instruction that will support them for the rest of their lives. Special education services of physical, occupational, and speech therapy provided by licensed therapists. Children leave Alternatives For Children ready to learn and ready for kindergarten.

BounceU Farmingdale

101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com It’s not your birthday yet? That’s okay! Our Open Bounces are perfect for children to come in with their parents and bounce to their hearts’ content. Every Friday morning we host a Preschool Playdate that includes bounce and snack for children ages 6 and younger, Wednesday nights we have Family Bounce Night, and Thursday nights are our All Ages Open Bounces. Sessions may be added or cancelled based on availability, so please make sure to call us at 631-777-5867 or go online to bounceu.com/farmingdale-ny/ calendar/to reserve your spot!

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool

29 Pinewood Drive, Commack 631-499-1237 bbdps.com Building Blocks is an early childhood learning center focusing on the education of

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

all young children. We offer parent and child groups, nursery and preschool classes, and child care options. As a New York state-accredited special education program serving children and their families for more than 30 years, we provide services including special instruction; ABA; speech, occupational, and physical therapies; psychological services, and diagnostic services to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. We develop skills that enable all of our children to attain their highest potential while building self-esteem and independent learning.

Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

128 Cherry Lane, Hicksville 516-678-5800 drvcschools.org Long Island’s Catholic elementary schools are 43 unique and beautiful schools in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Academically, the expectations of each student are high and the historical performance has been exceptional. The schools are differentiated from their public counterparts by their integrated program of learning and living the Catholic faith and values. We help instill the moral values, self-respect, and study habits that go on to serve our students well as they continue their education, and for the rest of their lives.

Chance To Dance

140 N. Belle Mead Road, Suite F, Setauket 631-246-9650 chancetodancestudios.com chance2dance@aol.com Chance to Dance is a low-key studio that emphasizes dancing for fun! For preschool students, we offer Ballet and Tap combo classes. For students in kindergarten-first grade, we offer Ballet, Tap, Intro to Jazz, HipHop combo classes. Boys can take our Boys Only Hip-Hop

class. Second- to fourth-graders may take Ballet, Tap, and Jazz/ Hip-Hop with special hourand-a-half multi-class options. Our fourth grade and older students have the option to take Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz/HipHop, Lyrical, Musical Theatre, Technique, and Contemporary and are also eligible to join the Chance To Dance dance team.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org steved@cshfishhatchery.org Join us for a fun-filled hour of nature activities (fish feeding included). Using live animals, crafts, stories, and games, we guide you and your little ones through nature adventures sure to last a lifetime. Juice and snack available to all participants. Ages 2-5 at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium Pollywog Adventures program. Catch & Keep Trout Fishing— spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring your own fishing equipment or rent from the hatchery. Call us for details and registration information for Pollywog Adventures and fishing.

The Culture Connection LI

Office: 32 Spinnaker Lane, East Patchogue 631-307-2606, Stacy Sbarra Studio Address: The Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson Phone: 631-307-2606 thecultureconnectionli.com thecultureconnectionllc@gmail.com The Culture Connection is a passion project of Stacy Sbarra. The Culture Connection’s mission is to foster soulful learning, trigger the imagination, and enhance quality of life by connecting children with the arts and culture through fun, interactive,

and educational creativity workshops developed by Stacy and her expert team of advisors. Over the years we have defined and perfected a formula exclusive to us. We awaken the creator in your child and the result is nothing short of magical. For more information please visit our website at thecultureconnectionli.com.

Dr. Michael Gruttadauria, The Center for Integrative and Innovative Therapies (The CIIT Center)

131 Sunnyside Blvd., Suite 100, Plainview 516-243-8660 theciitcenter.com Dr. Michael Gruttadauria leads the operations at an advanced treatment center for autism spectrum disorder called The CIIT Center. The CIIT Center’s mission is to approach each child with autism as a total entity by enhancing the biomedical, neurological, nutritional, electrical, and immune system of each of our patients and combining this with occupational, physical, and speech therapies, along with applied behavioral analysis. Our comprehensive approach starts with identifying the underlying factors that may be holding the child back, not just treating their symptoms. This gives each child every opportunity to reach their potential.

Fairy LiceMothers

2463 S. Long Beach Road, Oceanside 1755 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park 679 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head 866-561-0492 fairylicemothers.com fairylicemothers@gmail.com Back-to-school season is approaching and children have been playing head to head all summer. It is important to check your children before school starts. Fairy LiceMothers says “Once a week, take a peek” by doing a quick 10-minute weekly comb-out with the MagicWand and MagicHalo Conditioner. Watch our comb-out video to learn how to check your children at fairylicemothers. com/lice_treatment.html. Or schedule a headcheck at one of our three Long Island locations. Headchecks are normally $25,

but mention this ad and get $10 off. Remember, advice is always free.

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

Fire Island School District

631-583-5626 fi.k12.ny.us ptamberino@fi.k12.ny.us Now accepting non-resident students, Fire Island’s Woodhull School (pre-K through sixth grade) is a gem! Small class sizes, dynamic teachers, natural and technological resources, and a supportive community come together to help all students grow and thrive. Transportation to and from school, including after-school activities, occurs by bus. Both pre-K and kindergarten classes are full-day, and all students participate in musical groups, daily PE, Spanish, and technology instruction; art and library classes; and social and emotional learning. Call for a bus pickup to visit our vibrant and unique little school.

The Food Wizard for Kids

Serving all of Long Island 631-606-2680 thefoodwizardforkids.com info@thefoodwizardforkids.com The Food Wizard for Kids (a registered dietitian nutritionist) makes food and nutrition fun for the whole family. Available for speaking engagements at schools, PTAs, and libraries to help parents make mealtimes healthier, fun, and less stressful! The Food Wizard for Kids also offers workshops for children to get kids discovering new foods (mainly fruits and vegetables) with fun activities including taste tests, art projects, and fun discussions about mealtime behavior! Other services include family night dinners and healthy weight counseling for families.

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©2017 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) are registered trademarks of the College Board. PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities endorses or was involved in the production of the program.*Offer valid for Academic Evaluation, new students only. Not valid with any other offer. Grade level results are based on cumulative average grade level increase in reading and math for 17,445 students from 2010 to 2014 using the full set of available student data.

Give your child the opportunity to exceed their potential and the conﬁdence to succeed in the classroom, at home, and with peers in life!

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol CHILDREN’S ETIQUETTE CLASSES Modern Manners & Social Etiquette For Modern Times

Holy Angels Regional School

1 Division St., Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org mconnell@holyangelsregional.org Since 1923, Holy Angels Regional School has illuminated the hearts and minds of students through academic excellence and the values of the Catholic faith. Our mission is to provide each student the opportunity to grow continued on next page ››

Our programs are fun, informative and interactive geared to learning the social skills necessary to face everyday situations with

Grace, Integrity & Conﬁdence.

www.ActAsIfEtiquette.com

561-889-4464 LongIslandParent 21

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spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically in an environment that is safe and caring. Children’s success is based on the collaboration of parents, pastors, teachers, and administration. We offer a rich curriculum with innovative special classes, after-school activities, an early childhood academic program, an advanced curriculum, and a unique campus setting. Give your children the advantage that lasts a lifetime!

Huntington Learning Centers

656 Sunrise Highway, Baldwin 516-867-4041 607 E. Main St., Bay Shore 631-968-5100 79-81 Westbury Ave., Carle Place 516-747-5600 Elwood Shopping Center 1928B Jericho Turnpike, East Northport 631-462-8900 Phillips Plaza 639 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-568-1900 1506 Northern Blvd., Manhasset 516-365-4455 South Gate Shopping Center 49-34 Merrick Road, Massapequa Park 516-799-9500 Gateway Plaza 499-5 Sunrise Highway, Patchogue 631-289-4900 443 S. Oyster Bay Road, Suite B, 2nd floor, Plainview 516-681-0400 Smithtown Shopping Center 8 Miller Place, Smithtown 631-360-0422 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington Learning Center is an accredited, K-12th tutoring and test prep leader. Its certified teachers provide individualized instruction in phonics, reading, writing, math, science, study skills, and executive functioning skills. Huntington also helps students prepare for the SAT, ACT, High School Entrance Exams, and other state and standardized exams. Huntington students achieve results at all skill levels. According to one parent: “In just four months I have seen incredible improvements in Jessica’s grades and confidence. She actually went up two grade levels!” Huntington offers convenient 1-on-1 tutoring programs. Call today!

Key to My Art Inc.

10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 keytomyart.com info@keytomyart.com Key to My Art is an art studio that is owned and operated by a New York state-certified art teacher who believes that anyone can create art if they want to. We teach your child how to work with different materials and mediums, while using a variety of techniques and styles. Your child will learn to give critique and look at the work of their peers, as well as expand on their skills. We offer art classes for all ages and abilities.

KIDZHITZ

304 Main St., Huntington 631-470-9788 kidzhitz.biz kidzhitz@gmail.com KIDZHITZ has been located in the heart of Huntington Village for nearly 10 years. Our music lesson programs are like no other. We have a state-ofthe-art recording studio just for children along with lesson rooms for every instrument at every level. We uphold a high standard for all of our employees, which creates a positive and fun experience. Please stop in for a free trial music lesson when you’re in town! And check us out on Cablevision channel 20 every Saturday morning at 9:30am. Helping kids learn and grow through music!

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

1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com School districts consult their attorneys, why shouldn’t you? Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child is entitled to under law. He’ll guide you, decipher lingo, and develop effective strategies. He’s also a New York state-certified impartial hearing officer who hears cases in New York City and Rockland and Westchester counties.

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, director LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 liu.edu/giftedyouth vera.savino@liu.edu The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the increasing recognition of society’s special responsibilities for children with demonstrably superior intellectual ability. The Long Island University Center for Gifted Youth brings together two important elements of education for the gifted: extraordinary teachers recruited from leading high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools in the metropolitan area and university-level facilities. These two factors, combined with an administrative and psychological team schooled in the needs of gifted children, give the program at LIU Post unique strengths in producing positive benefits for young people admitted to the program.

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 Queens: 718-640-6767 Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, is owner and operator of Speech Pathology and Swallowing Disorder Services of Long Island. Along 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 FEES—Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing—are also offered. There is a total of seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies and offering evening and Saturday hours.

Long Island Lutheran Day School

106 Vernon Valley Road, East Northport 631-754-4424 x224 luday.luhi.onmessagestaging. com/page/luday admissions@ludaynorthport.org LuDay’s preschool program serves children ages 2-5 in fulland half-day programs. Nursery classes emphasize learning through imaginative play and exploration as the means for cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. Attention is given to the student’s continued development of language and self-expression skills. Preschool curriculum includes tools for mathematics and reading readiness, and is designed to build a solid foundation for future learning. The Kindersteps program provides an extra year of preparation for a child who has a late birthday or is not quite ready for kindergarten.

Music Together

Various locations Find the location near you: musictogetherli-queens.com While the big kids head back to school this fall, have some family-style, music-makin’ fun with your little ones. Once a week for 10 weeks, you’ll sing, dance, and play with your baby, toddler, or preschooler in a play-based, developmentally appropriate musical environment. Some centers even offer classes for the big kids, too! Founded in 1987, Music Together is a research-based program. Each family receives a CD/download set and songbook so you can continue the fun at home with the rest of the family. Find a location near you in Queens or on Long Island: musictogetherli-queens.com.

Ohman School Of Ballet New York Dance Theatre

60 Calvert Ave., Commack 631-462-6266 ohmanballet.org office@ohmanballet.com Our school serves as a training ground for promising young dancers and offers the opportunity to learn classical ballet in the tradition of George Balanchine. Students are guided from first steps to advanced technique. The Early Childhood Program instills creativity, discipline, and

a love for ballet for our students ages 4-6. Students explore the characters and music of various classical ballets, are introduced to classical ballet steps, create their own movements, and practice in costume. The school is a non-competition, non-recital school, focusing on proper classical ballet technique.

Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County Dr. Mike Ioannou

2171 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 145, Commack 631-486-6364 3237 Route 112, Building 6, Suite 7B, Medford 631-320-0880 supermolar.com mikeioannou@hotmail.com Dr. Michael Ioannou, a native of Suffolk County, received his dental degree at the University of Connecticut’s School of Dental Medicine, with a residency in pediatric dentistry from Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center. A friendly, patient dentist, Dr. Mike strives to make visiting the dentist a fun experience, all while providing exceptional dental care. He uses excellent behavioral management approaches, offers a child-friendly environment (TV and cartoons are available in all treatment rooms), and sings to the patients! Dr. Mike currently participates with most insurance companies.

Pediatric Immediate Care

698 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn 718-389-PEDS (7337) 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-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, babies, 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.

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

Picasso Kidz, Creative Art Studio For Children

72 Broadway, Greenlawn 631-261-5500 picassokidz.com picassokidzart@gmail.com Picasso Kidz is a children’s art studio for ages 2-17. We offer age-appropriate art classes by experienced NYS-certified art teachers dedicated to giving children a well-rounded art education. Children will be taught drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and collage in a caring and creative environment. Mommy and Me classes for ages 2-3, include creative play, easel time, story time, and art lessons. “Extraordinary Picasso” art classes are for children with special needs. These are smaller classes, taught by NYS-certified art teachers who have also been trained by Missing Piece Awareness.

Posey School

57 Main St., Northport 631-757-2700 poseyschool.com poseyschoolofdance@gmail.com Posey School offers dance classes for infants-adults, a preschool program, and our new art classes. We offer classes during convenient days and times, and a preschool program for boys and girls ages 2-5 every day from 9am-12pm. Classes include: Ballet, Contemporary-Modern, Jazz, Tap, Choreography, and Creative Movement. Based on nationally recognized criteria, our unique programs emphasize the artistic and cultural benefits of applying oneself in the arts. These benefits include acquiring and maintaining basic physical skills, as well as cognitive development in problem solving.

Prime Time Early Learning Center 270 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale 631-759-8777 primetimeschools.com/ farmingdale-day-care Prime Time Farmingdale offers expert child care for kids ages 6 weeks through pre-K, and an enriching before- and after-school program for children ages 10 and younger. We are dedicated to fostering harmo-

C on t u s to a c t v i s it a cla s s!

Discover the joy of making music together with your family! Find a location near you in Long Island or Queens: www.MusicTogetherLI-Queens.com

CALL

• CPR/AED NOW for info or • Fitness Classes registra,on • CYO Basketball details • Fall Deck Hockey • Intramural Basketball • Youth Ministry

• Before & ACer Care • Mommy & Me • SeparaFon Program • Kindergarten Readiness Program • Enrichment Programs • Tutoring K-‐12th Grade • SAT PreparaFons • Study Skills • Catholic HS Entrance Exams Prep

continued on next page ››

LongIslandParent 23

‹‹ continued from previous page

nious home-school relations. Our before- and after-school program provides homework assistance, supervised play, computers, group games, and playground time in a safe, educational, and relaxed environment. Our center offers an environment that is safe and loving, with a staff that is well trained, highly motivated, and dedicated to each child’s well-being. Prime Time Farmingdale is open Monday-Friday from 6:30am-7pm.

The Reading/Writing Learning Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center of Hofstra University

131 Hofstra University, Hempstead 516-463-5805 hofstra.edu/rwlclinic Located at Hofstra University, The Reading/Writing Learning Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center is dedicated to providing literacy support to children and youth in a safe and supportive environment. Each class–taught by New York state-certified teachers–incorporates students’ experiences with literacy in innovative ways to help them develop their strengths as readers and writers. Personalized consultations offer parents advice about how to support their child’s literacy growth. Individual or small group instruction is available. Evaluations are conducted by appointment only.

Sappo School

40 Kings Park Road, Commack 631-736-2146 sapposchool.com info@sapposchool.com Sappo School is a non-religious, private, college-preparatory

school. Founded more than 20 years ago, Sappo School believes in a tailored learning approach to education. Students are taught using their individual strengths and interests. Because classes have a maximum of 15 students, teachers are able to get to know students and how they learn best. Focus is on project-based learning. Students learn by doing as well as listening, reading, or watching. Real world projects allow students to develop independent thinking and problem-solving skills. Creativity is enhanced through STEM computer programing courses and visual and performing arts programs.

St. Patrick Youth Community

St. Patrick Church, Smithtown 631-724-1261 stpatsyouth.com spyouth@optonline.net The best-kept secret is now available to you! St. Patrick Youth Enrichment Learning Center is available for ages 2-5, Monday–Friday, during the school year. Flexible hours, days, and reasonable rates make this program an option for all. Music, reading readiness skills, and NYS standards are just some of the reasons to join. We offer arts and crafts, circle time number concepts, and free play. Playtime with Mommy and separation classes are also available. And the best part is, you only pay for the days you attend!

TJE Dance Force

556 N. Country Road, St. James 631-584-6888 310 Main St., Holbrook 631-585-6900 tjedance.com info@tjedance.com Come experience the finest, most

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September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

talented, creative, award-winning staff who will motivate your child to do the best they can! The benefits your children will receive while dancing at TJE are the qualities every child needs to succeed: focus, concentration, self-confidence, and self-esteem, plus they’ll make a ton of new friends and most of all they will have fun while learning the many forms of dance. The best part of TJE is the wonderful families that have been with us over the years, many still with us since opening in 1993!

Tower Talent

535 Broadhollow Road, Suite A2A, Melville 516-765-2400 towertalent.com towertalentclasses@gmail.com On-camera acting, modeling, and vocal coaching for kids and teens ages 4 and older. Build confidence, overcome shyness, and prepare your child for a future career in entertainment. Local auditions with NYC talent agencies, management, and casting companies are held at our Melville location and are provided to students for potential jobs in commercials, TV, film, fashion shows, and print campaigns. Attend special guest workshops and learn from working actors, models, and casting directors. After school and on weekends. If your child has star quality, give us a call today.

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® is a highly rigorous, creative, and engaging academic enrichment program for gifted students ages 3-16. Its curriculum includes Latin, writing, geography, global studies, world history, STEM, advanced linguistics, SAT vocabulary enrichment, public speaking, art, and creative problem solving. Gifted pre-kindergarten (ages 3-4) is offered as well as parallel classes for bright children not classified as gifted. More than 400 students have enrolled in the program, all of whom have placed in the 90th percentile or higher on national tests with IQ scores between 130 and 155.

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (296-2254) Locations: Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org/programs/?utm_ source=LI+Parent&utm_ medium=Web+Programs+ LP&utm_campaign=Programs tamar.simpson@ymcali.org YMCA of Long Island works daily to improve lives through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Each year, we serve more than 65,000 people island-wide of all ages and backgrounds. Our locations in Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Huntington, Holtsville, and Patchogue provide programs and services for youth, teens, adults, and seniors including state-ofthe-art fitness centers, group exercise classes, youth and teen programs, pristine pools, family activities, preschool, before- and after-school programs, and summer day camp for children ages 3-15 of all interests!

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH

FALL 2017 AND SPRING 2018 SATURDAY PROGRAM Oct 7th – Dec 16th and Feb 3rd – April 28th, 2018 for students entering grades K-8

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

Where every dancer enjoys a Chance To Dance in a supportive and nurturing environment promoting a lifetime of positive self-esteem

$20 Per Month For One Class First 20 New Dancers To Register For Fall 2017-2018 Entire Dance Season (New Students Only)

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 37th annual fall and spring program for gifted children. The fall

program runs on Saturdays from October 7th to December 16th and the spring program runs on Saturdays from February 3rd to April 28th. The program is open to gifted children entering grades K-8 in September 2017. The program expands

With This Coupon Exp. 9/30/17

140 N. Belle Mead Rd, Suite F, Setauket | Chance2dance@aol.com

www.chancetodancestudios.com | 631-246-9650

students’ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

Open House and Registration

For information call 516-299-2160 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth

Fri 9/8 5:00-7:30pm Sat 9/9 10:00am-12:30pm

Now find us on Facebook

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

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

Thank you for helping us achieve 20 years of excellent dance education emphasizing Fun!

Discover, Create, Become

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

For Children

To Register Please Email Miss Jen For More Information at: Chance2dance@aol.com

@LuDay

Child Day Care Center

Evaluations Birth-6 yrs 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. Services for eligible children are provided at no outof-pocket cost to families. Funding for these programs is through NYSED, NYS DOH and Suffolk/Nassau DOH.

AQUEBOGUE 1116 Main Road 631-722-2170 EAST SETAUKET 14 Research Way 631-331-6400 DIX HILLS 600 S. Service Road 631-271-0777 SOUTHAMPTON 168 Hill Street 631-283-3272

www.notjustart.com 183 South Street Oyster Bay, NY 516-922-8300

Nurturing Creativity ®

music together • art • science ®

Preschool 2-year olds through Grade 5 Open House - 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 21  Tuesday, October 24 Call the Admissions Office at (631) 754-4424 ext. 224 to register.

classes • vacation camps • studio days • parties play groups • homeschoolers • scouts

Music Together® locations in Babylon, Bellmore, Garden City, Huntington, Manhassett, Massapequa, Oyster Bay, Plainview, Sea Cliff

106 Vernon Valley Road, East Northport, NY 11731 (631) 754-4424 www.ludaynorthport.org Long Island Lutheran admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic background.

LongIslandParent 25

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

Call, visit or register online

Fall Registration

Arts-Based Preschool

• Ballet Based Curriculum

5 days/week 9am-noon

OPEN HOUSE

• Children age 2+

Sept. 9 • 10am-noon

• Teens & Adults

Nutcracker Audition Sept. 9 • 3-5pm:

• Contemporary Modern

Boys & girls ages 3 and up Please call to register

• Jazz & Tap

Age 3-5 (need not audition) Age 6-11 (3-4pm) • Age 12+ (4-5pm)

• Arts-Based Preschool

Mommy & Me Kids Teens “Extraordinary Picassos” For Children With Special Needs ACTIVITIES PLUS… ADULT Paint NightsEVENTS Too!

Join Us 631.757.2700 57 Main Street, Northport Village poseyschoolofdance@gmail.com

for fun and an excellent education in the Art of Dance!

www.POSEYSCHOOL.com

Photos by Janette Pellegrini

CREAT IVE WAY T SPEND O YO CHILD UR 'S SPECI AL DAY!

Blending the arts with education. Ages 2 thru HS! ENROLL NOW! FOR FALL ART CLASSES

Join

The most exclusive, cutting edge and fascinating children's art program to ever hit Long Island. The results are nothing short of magical – your child will not only become a little creator but will be mesmerized as well.

NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities, inJefferson: group discussions Theparticipate Village Center at Port Mondays from 4:30 - 6:00pm 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/16, 10/23 and receive special notices. Huntington Arts Council: Tuesdays from 3:30 - 5:00pm

Premiering 2 programs this Fall. Register Now!

9/12, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3, 10/10, 10/17

Visit our website for more information! 631-307-2606 thecultureconnectionllc@gmail.com www.thecultureconnectionli.com

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Celebrating Our 33rd Anniversary

Building BlocksBlocks an Early Early Intervention and Preschool Preschool Program dedicated to to Building Blocks isis an and Program dedicated to Building is anIntervention Early Intervention and Preschool Program dedicated Building Blocks is ancommitted Early Intervention and Preschool dedicated toall educational excellence and committed to meeting meeting the developmental developmental needsneeds of all of all educational excellence and committed to meeting theProgram developmental educational excellence and to the needs of excellence andprovided committed to meeting thein developmental all youngeducational children. Services are at home, home, in the the community, atneeds daycare, young children. Services are provided at home, the community, at of daycare, young children. Services are provided at in community, at daycare, young children. Services are provided at in community, daycare, orat atour our center as determined determined byhome, theby child’s IEP orIEP IFSP. or center at our center as determined thethechild’s oratIFSP. or as by the child’s IEP or at our center as determined by the child’s IEPororIFSP. IFSP. %) 0RESCHOOL !UTISM 0ROGRAM s 3%)4 3Ervices %) 0RESCHOOL !UTISM 0ROGRAM s 3%)4 3Ervices %) 0RESCHOOL !UTISM 0ROGRAM s 3%)4 3Ervices %) 0RESCHOOL !UTISM 0ROGRAM s 3%)4 3Ervices Family 4RAINING s 3PEECH 4HERAPY Family 4RAINING s 3PEECH 4HERAPY Family 4RAINING s 3PEECH 4HERAPY Family 4RAINING s 3PEECH 4HERAPY /CCUPATIONAL 4HERAPY s 0HYSICAL 4HERAPY /CCUPATIONAL 4HERAPY s 0HYSICAL 4HERAPY /CCUPATIONAL 4HERAPY s 0HYSICAL 4HERAPY /CCUPATIONAL 4HERAPY s 0HYSICAL 4HERAPY #OMPLETE $IAGNOSTIC 3Ervices #OMPLETE $IAGNOSTIC 3Ervices #OMPLETE $IAGNOSTIC 3Ervices #OMPLETE $IAGNOSTIC 3Ervices

3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES 3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES 3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES 3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS 4 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS Building Blocks is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency and has been providing services to children from birth to age 5 years and their families for 30 years. BuildingBlocks Blocks 501(c)(3) agencyand and hasbeen been providing services tochildren children fromfrom birthbirth to age age years and their families for 30 30years. years. Building isisisaaa501(c)(3) agency has providing services to from birth to 555 years and for 30 years. Building Blocks 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency and has been providing services to children birth to age years and their families for 30 years. isnot-for-profit anot-for-profit 501(c)(3) agency has been services to children to age 5 years andtheir theirfamilies families ToBuilding refer aBlocks child suspected of not-for-profit developmental delayand please call providing Suffolk County DOH EIPfrom at 631-853-3100 for children 0-3yrs; or thefor child’s school district referaaachild child suspected of developmental delayplease please call Suffolk CountyCounty DOHEIP EIP atEIP 631-853-3100 forchildren children 0-3yrs; ororthe the child’s schooldistrict district To suspected developmental delay Suffolk County DOH 631-853-3100 for 0-3yrs; or child’s district Tofor refer a childof suspected of age. developmental delaycall please callprovided Suffolk DOHat at 631-853-3100 for children 0-3yrs; the child’satschool school ToTorefer refer child suspected of3-5 developmental delay please call Suffolk County EIP at 631-853-3100 for children 0-3yrs; or the child’s school children years of All authorized services toDOH eligible children are funded through NYS & Suffolk County no costdistrict to families. for children 3-5 years of age. All authorized services provided to eligible children are funded through NYS & Suffolk County at no cost to families. for children 3-5 years of age. All authorized services provided to eligible children are funded through NYS & Suffolk County at no cost to families. for years children 3-5 of age. Alland authorized services provided to eligible children arespecial funded through & Suffolk County no cost cost families. for childrenBBDPS 3-5 age.years All authorized services provided toIntervention eligible children are funded through NYSNYS &services Suffolk County atatno families. is anofapproved provider evaluator of Early & Preschool education and is regulated bytoNYSED and NYSDOH. BBDPSisisisan anapproved approved provider and evaluator EarlyIntervention Intervention Preschool special education services andand bybyNYSED NYSED and NYSDOH. NYSDOH. BBDPS provider and evaluator &&&Preschool special education services and isisis regulated BBDPS is an approved provider and of evaluator of Early Intervention & Preschool special education services isregulated regulatedby NYSED and NYSDOH. BBDPS an approved provider and evaluator ofofEarly Early Intervention Preschool special education services and regulated by NYSED and NYSDOH.

ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

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NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions and receive special notices. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

ACTIVITIES

EVENTS

Greenport

Port Jefferson Riverhead Stony Brook

Brookhaven

Spotlight

on Stony Brook to Riverhead LOCAL BUSINESSES ›› Alternatives For Children

SEPTEMBER EVENTS ›› May the Force Be With You

WHEN: Sept. 1-3, Friday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Experiment with the science behind natural forces and discover different ways to challenge and test them. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

Aquebogue, Dix Hills, East Setauket, and Southampton 631-331-6400 alternatives4children.org Licensed day care, Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education evaluations, and provider for eligible children. Early childhood professionals create a natural learning environment, promoting a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.

The Culture Connection

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 9, 1-3pm WHERE: Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Children are welcome to stop by and color special pages that will be added to the library’s official entry for the Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Annual Scarecrow Competition. WANT TO GO? 631-941-4080. emmaclark.org.

The Village Center, 101-A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson Huntington Arts Council 213 Main St., Huntington 631-307-2606, Stacy Sbarra thecultureconnectionli.com thecultureconnectionllc@gmail.com The most exclusive, cutting-edge, and fascinating children’s art program on Long Island. The results are nothing short of magical—your child will not only become a little creator but will be mesmerized as well.

5th Annual Lego® Building Block Contest & Exhibit

Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center

Crafternoon FREE

WHEN: Sept. 16-Oct. 15, daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Educational and Cultural Center, 97 Main St., Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Grab your family, friends, Scout troop, church group, or school club, and start building to win prizes. Teams may be individuals or groups up to five members. WANT TO GO? $4; $2 children younger than 12. 631-751-2244. wmho.org.

13th Annual Long Island Garlic Festival

WHEN: Sept. 16-17, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Garden of Eve Farm, 4558 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: This celebration features vendors offering a wide variety of garlicinspired foods, crafts, music, and a garlic-eating contest. Festival will take place rain or shine. WANT TO GO? $5; free for children younger than 6. 631-722-8777. gardenofevefarm.com.

Fall Into Fun Carnival!

WHEN: Sept. 28-Oct. 1, Thursday, 6-10pm; Friday, 6-11pm; Saturday, 12-11pm; Sunday, 12-7pm WHERE: Heritage Park in Mount Sinai, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: All WHAT: There will be rides, games, and food to kick off the fall season, plus fireworks Friday night. WANT TO GO? $22 and up. 631-384-8900. msheritagetrust.org.

431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH20 (426) For birthdays: 631-208-9200 x186 longislandaquarium.com This FINtastic destination features an amazing coral reef display, a 120,000-gallon shark tank, sea lion shows, penguins, stingrays, touch tanks, and more than 100 exhibits and interactive experiences.

Lyrical Children’s Preschool & Learning Center & Kreative Kidz Party Zone

4492 Middle Country Road, Calverton 631-208-4003 lyricalchildren.com; lyricalchildrenmusic.com Lyrical Children offers many fun programs for families in northeastern Suffolk including Music Together® from Setauket to Southold, plus nursery, pre-K, and enrichment at the preschool and learning center located in Calverton.

My Gym - Stony Brook

1320 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook 631-751-KIDS (5437) mygym.com/stonybrook stonybrook@mygym.com The experts in children’s fitness. State-of-the-art facility, extensively trained staff, and award-winning programs have earned My Gym the reputation as the best early learning program of its kind.

LongIslandParent 27

OUTINGS: Roosevelt Island

nymetroparents.com/outings

Get Away Without Leaving NYC Explore historical sites, view art, and take a 4-minute tram to explore the island between Manhattan and Queens. ›› 2 Vanessa Petit

1 Double rows of trees narrow and frame the triangular courtyard of The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park. 2 The Roosevelt Island Tramway takes visitors from Midtown Manhattan to Roosevelt Island in 4 minutes. 3 The Octagon Gallery serves as a lobby and art gallery inside a luxury apartment building; it originally greeted people entering the New York City Lunatic Asylum. 4 The Lighthouse was designated a New York City landmark in 1975. 5 The Fall for Arts Festival brings together artists and community members to paint large murals.

oosevelt Island, the 2-mile-long strip of land between Manhattan and Queens, makes for a great family day trip. Governor Nelson Rockefeller and Mayor John Lindsay named the island in 1973 in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Families can walk or bike along both sides of the island or take the Red Bus, free transportation around the island, up and down the middle of the island on Main Street to explore its numerous parks, take in amazing city views, and learn about historical sites.

Where Else Can You Ride a Tram in the City?

The kids will love taking the 4-minute tram ride to this storied island. With one swipe of a Metrocard at East 59th Street and Second Avenue (including a free transfer to the subway or MTA buses) the Roosevelt Island Tramway climbs to 250 feet above the East River and travels along the north side of the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge (expect brief wait times due to maintenance work on both sides of the tram through the winter). The F train has a stop at Roosevelt Island as well, and starting Aug. 29 visitors can reach the island via the NYC Ferry on the Astoria Line. At the Roosevelt Island Visitor Center you can buy souvenirs, historical books about the island, and maps. 28

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

See a Lighthouse and Enjoy Its Park

Completed in 1872 under supervising architect James Renwick Jr., the Lighthouse was built of stone quarried on the island by convict labor from the Penitentiary. It stands 50 feet tall on the northernmost point of the island and is surrounded by the East River. The Lighthouse was designated a New York City landmark in 1975, and its park includes grills and tables perfect for a picnic.

An Art Gallery With a Storied Past

South of the Lighthouse is the Octagon, first built in 1839, which originally served as the administrative center and main entrance to the New York City Lunatic Asylum—both Charles Dickens and Nellie Bly wrote about its stark conditions. After serving as a hospital and then being abandoned, the Octagon Gallery reopened in 2006 as the lobby entrance of a 500-unit residential luxury apartment building and home to a rotating art exhibit curated by the Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association. Now residents and visitors can enter the building’s original rotunda, framed by a spiral staircase, to experience the RIVAA exhibits.

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, on the southernmost tip of the island, opened in 2012. It spans 4

Courtesy Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation

By Vanessa Petit

acres and celebrates the four freedoms that President Franklin D. Roosevelt spoke of in his 1941 State of the Union speech: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. Double rows of trees narrow and frame the triangular courtyard, which contains a bust of FDR, sculpted in 1933 by Jo Davidson. The Four Freedoms Park Conservancy offers free public guided tours on the weekends, weather permitting, and events AprilOctober, including yoga in the park and playgroups for toddlers.

Family-Friendly Roosevelt Island Activities

Roosevelt Island’s diverse community is family-friendly and hosts many events. The Fall for Arts Festival on Sept. 23 brings together local and off-island artists to paint large murals tied to a central theme. Kid-friendly activities include art workshops, community mural panels to paint, and live music. Enjoy outdoor movies in the summer, a family Halloween Parade Oct. 28, and a year-round farmers’ market under the Roosevelt Island Bridge every Saturday.

Want to Go?

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES MARKETPLACE

Advanced Therapies to Treat

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER Promote a Healthy Brain... So The Body Works Better All Under One Roof!

An Arsenal of Integrative Treatments To Stimulate the Brain and Body Neurology

Integrative Medicine

Nutritional Counseling Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Speech & Language Therapy

Chiropractic Care IV Therapy

Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy

Sensory Integration Therapy

Address: 591 Main St., Roosevelt Island Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 40-minute drive from Huntington Hours: The Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park is open April 1-Sept. 30, Wednesday-Monday, 9am-7pm, and Oct. 1-March 31, Wednesday-Monday, 9am-5pm Admission: FREE For more information: rioc.ny.gov

Does Your Kid need a haircut?

Functional Neurological Therapy Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Hyperbaric Oxygen Neuro Therapy Feedback Therapy

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The Center For Integrative & Innovative Therapies (The CIIT Center) 131 Sunnyside Boulevard, Suite 100, Plainview, N.Y. 11803 Phone: 516-243-8660 • Toll Free: 844-313-7117 www.theciitcenter.com • Follow us on

A Bright Start at the

ResouRces ARticles ticles

Fire island school district

Enroll Today for 2017-18 Non-Resident Students Accepted

Woodhull School focuses on creating a nurturing learning environment inclusive of: • Full-day prekindergarten and kindergarten program

• Committed to mindfulness and character education

• Small class size with individualized instruction

• Dynamic art and music program

• Unique National Park setting • Robust environmental education program

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• Technology-integrated instruction, including 1:1 laptop initiative

• Extracurricular offerings, including swimming, tennis, clubs and field trips • Daily physical education • Low annual tuition rates

Questions? Contact 631-583-5626 or visit www.fi.k12.ny.us LongIslandParent 29

School Districts Consult Attorneys. Why Shouldn’t You?

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

Brad H. Rosken,

Counselor at Law

1772 East Jericho Tpke., Suite 2, Huntington, New York 11743 (631) 379-9569 • Brad@specialedcounselor.com www.specialedcounselor.com

Fundraiser

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

Make your next birthday party come to life by hosting it at Bounce U! • Private Party Experience • Giant Inﬂatable Rides • Dedicated Party Pros • Easy to Do • We Clean Up!

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

Need a staycation?

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, NY

Fall Festival October, 7th 10am – 4:30pm

ResouRces ARticles ticles

ate Rain d, 14th r e b Octo

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Admission: $6 Adult, $4 Children/Senior, Members Free

Kid’s Fishing Petting Zoo Games

Live Animal Encounters

Music Food

Visit www.cshﬁshhatchery.org! or Call 516-692-6768 ! for more details & events!! 30

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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EDITOR: KAREN DEMETER suffolkcal@davlermedia.com

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR

Editor’s Hot Tickets

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

Show Time!, Smarty Pants

Must-Sees in NYC

Crafty Kids, Movers & Shakers

Once Upon a Time

Fun Fairs & Festivals, The Great Outdoors

Special Needs

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

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

Delicious Discussions: Play Ball FREE

Long Island Cruizin’ For A Cure Car Show

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 7, 7pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: Don Reiss provides an interactive walk through the history of the Brooklyn Dodgers, Ebbets Field, and Dem Bums. The library will provide a special dessert. Call or go online to register. WHY WE LOVE IT: A great night for baseball buffs! WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 10, 9am-3pm WHERE: Old Country Road West Exit - Wantagh Parkway, 1400 Old Country Road, Westbury AGES: All WHAT: A fun-filled day with entertainment, food, Kids Fun Zone, and more. Exhibit to have more than 450 vehicles, and Winthrop University Hospital to conduct free on-site PSA testing for early detection of prostate cancer. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a great opportunity to help save lives! WANT TO GO? $5; free children younger than 12. 888-542-7849. licruizinforacure.com.

Hallockville’s 37th Annual Country Fair and Craft Show

LI Parents Day

WHEN: Sept. 9-10, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the rich folk arts and agricultural traditions of the community. This is Hallockville’s biggest fundraiser of the year. WHY WE LOVE IT: A true old-fashioned country fair. WANT TO GO? $8; $5 for children younger than 13. 631-298-5292. hallockville.com. 32

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 17, 11am-3pm WHERE: LIU Post Campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: LI Parents Day is a fun day for the whole family! Kids can play in the Kids Corner and participate in fun, educational events. Parents can meet with exhibitors and professionals who specialize in family programs. Use the code “NYMP” for FREE tickets when registering online. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s discovery and fun all in one place, in one afternoon! WANT TO GO? $10. 212-315-0800. liparentsday.com.

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Piratefest!

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 17, 11am-3pm WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Meet pirates from Ye Pyrate Brotherhood, go on a treasure hunt, and create pirate-themed crafts. Costumes encouraged. WHY WE LOVE IT: Pirates never cease to fascinate young and old alike! WANT TO GO? $5; $15 children. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

13th Annual Long Island Garlic Festival

WHEN: Sept. 16-17, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Garden of Eve Farm, 4558 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: This celebration features vendors offering a wide variety of garlic inspired foods, crafts, music, and a garlic eating contest. WHY WE LOVE IT: You can guarantee that there will be no vampires here! WANT TO GO? $5; free for children younger than 6. 631-722-8777. gardenofevefarm.com.

Heart & Seoul: Growing Up in Korea

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 30, Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: The growing popularity of all things Korean, from fashion and film to music and cuisine, called “Hallyu” (the Korean Wave) is on view when this exhibit rolls into LICM. You can “hang out” with Korean kids and “text” them questions about what life is like in Seoul. WHY WE LOVE IT: Visitors are introduced to time-honored cultural values that are still an integral facet of 21st-century Korean life. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

‘Runny Babbit Returns’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 30, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble at Smith Haven Mall, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This collection of 41 never-before-published poems and drawings by Shel Silverstein, features Runny and other woodland characters who speak a language all their own. Activities to follow. WHY WE LOVE IT: A secret stash of Shel Silverstein...what could be better? WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com.

Bike Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 30, 10am-12pm WHERE: Camusett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Take a self-guided bike ride to search for items on the scavenger hunt list. A naturalist will be available to help and point you in the right direction if needed. Helmets and registration required. WHY WE LOVE IT: A healthy and unique family activity. WANT TO GO? 631-423-1770. nysparks.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. Just Plane Fun Day at East Hampton Airport FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 9, 10am-3pm WHERE: East Hampton Airport, 200 Daniels Hole Road, Wainscott AGES: All WHAT: The day features classic and unique aircraft, vintage warbirds, military flybys, and demos. WANT TO GO? 631-230-0630. hamptonflyers.com.

Go-Fly-A-Kite Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 16, 12-3pm WHERE: Long Island Maritime Museum, 88 West Ave., West Savyille AGES: All WHAT: Bring your own kite or purchase one at the museum and let the wind work its magic. WANT TO GO? 631-854-4974. limaritime.org.

4th Annual Brookhaven Highway Safety Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 23, 8am-3pm WHERE: Safety Town, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville AGES: All WHAT: Activities include free car seat inspections and a bicycle safety rodeo. WANT TO GO? 631-363-3770. brookhavenny.gov.

The Art of Chess with Ulysses Tapley FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 24, 2-5pm WHERE: Southampton Arts Center, 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Whether you are a chess expert or new to the game, join coach Ulysses Tapley to play and learn chess. WANT TO GO? 631-283-0967. southamptonartscenter.org.

DRAW OUT! at the Heckscher Museum of Art FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 24, 12-4pm WHERE: Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Artist demonstrations, performances, games, and hands-on activities will inspire the creative spirit. WANT TO GO? 631-351-3250. heckscher.org. ››

LongIslandParent 33

‘Princesses United’

WHEN: Sept. 9-23, Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 11:30am WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Cinderella, Snow White, and Rapunzel band together for a cause. WANT TO GO? $13. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

Professional Bull Riders: Built Ford Tough Series

SHOW TIME! Let’s Eat: Food on Film

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 9, 11am WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 5 and older WHAT: What’s On Your Plate? is a witty and provocative documentary about kids and food politics. Filmed over the course of one year, the film follows two 11-year-old multi-racial city kids as they explore their place in the food chain. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 12. 631-423-7611. cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Yankee Doodle Dandy’: Sky Room Talk With Film Historian Philip Harwood

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 11, 7:30pm WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Film historian Philip Harwood will take you back to James Cagney’s Academy award-winning performance in Yankee Doodle Dandy, detailing its production and backstory, followed by a screening. WANT TO GO? $16. 631-423-7611. cinemaartscentre.org.

Live Beatles Music!

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 14, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The Liverpool Shuffle, a popular Long Island Beatles tribute band, returns for its seventh performance. WANT TO GO? $25; $15 for children younger than 16. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Young People’s Auditions for Charles Dickens’ ‘ A Christmas Carol’ FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 19, 7pm WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Young people are invited to audition for Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. WANT TO GO? 631-928-9100. theatrethree.com.

Northport Chorale FREE

WHEN: Sept. 6-20, Wednesdays, 7pm WHERE: Northport High School - Chorus Room, Laurel Hill Road, Northport AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Come audition for the winter semester. Contact Debi at 631223-3789 or visit the website. WANT TO GO? 631-223-3789. northportchorale.org. 34

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sept. 23-24, Saturday, 6:45pm; Sunday, 1:45pm WHERE: NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum Presented By New York Community Bank, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Each event features epic battles of man vs. beast: a barrage of 8-second rides and jaw-dropping wrecks as cowboys risk it all against bovine opponents more than 10 times their size. The world’s top 35 cowboys will confront the best bulls in the business to claim the Buck Off The Island title. WANT TO GO? $26 and up. 800-745-3000. nycblive.com.

ABBAFAB

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 29, 8pm WHERE: The Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main St., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: This ABBA tribute band plays hits ranging from “Dancing Queen” to “Fernando” and the Mamma Mia soundtrack. WANT TO GO? $39-$45. 631-727-4343. suffolktheater.com.

‘Cinderella’

WHEN: Sept. 23-Oct. 29, Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 10:30am WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport AGES: All WHAT: In the classic fairy tale, poor Cinderella is endlessly taunted by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters and not allowed to attend the Royal Ball. WANT TO GO? $15. 631-261-2900. engemantheater.com.

Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’

WHEN: Sept. 16-Oct. 29, Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 11am WHERE: Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The award-winning animated film and stage play comes to life in this romantic and beloved take on the classic fairy tale. WANT TO GO? $15. 631-724-3700. smithtownpac.org.

SMARTY PANTS Bilingual Family Gallery Talks & Art Workshops

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 3, 2pm WHERE: Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill AGES: All WHAT: Explore the galleries and create art in the studio. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 18. 631-283-2118. parrishart.org.

May the Force Be With You

Music School Open House FREE WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 16, 1-4pm

CityBound Must-Sees in

N Y C Courtesy Summer on the Hudson

WHERE: Grace Music School at Steinway & Sons, 505 Walt Whitman Road, Melville AGES: All WHAT: This open house includes student performances, refreshments, and school tours. All attendees will receive music lesson discounts. WANT TO GO? 631-470-9705. gracemusicschool.com.

Backpacks & Humpbacks

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 21, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Did you know humpbacks can sing? Touch an earbone, hear a story, and decorate a tote bag. Snack included. WANT TO GO? $12; $4 siblings. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

The Science of the Harvest

Lego Club

WHEN: Sept. 3-24, Sundays, 10am-12pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children are encouraged to create original designs and can leave their works-in-progress and plan future sessions with the staff. WANT TO GO? $12. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

Open Studio for Families

WHEN: Sept. 9-30, Saturdays, 11am-1pm WHERE: Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill AGES: All WHAT: Explore the galleries and create art in the studio. Each month features different materials and techniques. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 18. 631-283-2118. parrishart.org.

Experience fair fun without leaving the city.

A Little Bit Country Fill your Sunday afternoon with county fair fun in a city setting. Summer on the Hudson’s West Side County Fair promises carnival rides and games, sideshow performers, local food and merchandise vendors, cotton candy, and more. See aerialists from the House Of Yes, laugh with host Ambrose Martos, and listen to live music from Mariti Garrett and Bette Smith, among others. Plus, you can bring clean, reusable items such as clothing, housewares, games, books, and toys that you no longer use and take home something that’s new to your family for free at the Stop ‘N’ Swap with GrowNYC. Sept. 10, 1-6pm (rain date: Sept. 17). Age: All. FREE. Pier I in Riverside Park South, West 70th Street, Riverside Park South. nycgovparks.org. Meg Banks

WHEN: Sept. 23-24, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Explore nature’s abundant bounty in New York: apples. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

Celebrate Ship in a Bottle Day

WHEN: Sept. 30-Oct. 1, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Build or draw your own miniature ship to fit in a bottle to take the sea. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

Act As IF Etiquette Classes

WHEN: Sept. 8-Oct. 13, Fridays, 4pm WHERE: Carl’s Candies, 50 Main St., Northport AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Have fun while learning the social skills necessary to face everyday situations with grace, integrity, and confidence. WANT TO GO? $25. 561-889-4464. actasifetiquette.com.

5th Annual Lego® Building Block Contest & Exhibit

WHEN: Sept. 16-Oct. 15, daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Educational and Cultural Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Grab your family, friends, Scout troop, church group, or school club and start building to win prizes. Teams may be individuals or groups up to five members. WANT TO GO? $4; $2 children younger than 12. 631-751-2244. wmho.org. ››

Pet a horse and have some fun at the Rolex Central Park Horse Show’s free family day.

Horsin’ Around Calling all equestrian fans! The Fourth Annual Rolex Central Park Horse Show will feature five days of diverse programming and daily exhibitions of different breeds and disciplines, concluding with a free family day packed with kid-friendly programming. Participate in hands-on interactions with horses, try your hand at hobby horsing (a competitive sport for children that involves a toy stick with a model horse head), and check out the first-ever dog agility class at Wollman Rink. Sept. 24, 12-3pm. Age: All. FREE. Wollman Rink, 830 Fifth Ave., Central Park. centralparkhorseshow.com. LongIslandParent 35

Mommy & Me Paint & Play

WHEN: Sept. 2-16, Thursdays, 11am-12pm WHERE: Mini Monet Studio, 64 Railroad Ave., Sayville AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Drop in for an hour of painting, coloring, reading storybooks, playing games, and meeting other moms. WANT TO GO? $12. 206-484-7711. artteacheramy.com.

Weave a Dream Catcher

CRAFTY KIDS We Love You to Pieces FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 5, 4:30pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: In celebration of Grandparents Day, children make a special craft for their grandparents. The program will also feature a special story. Call or go online to register. WANT TO GO? 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Crafternoon FREE

Jackson Pollock Family Drip Painting Workshop

WHEN: Aug. 5-Sept. 9, Saturdays, 10-11:30am WHERE: Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, 830 Springs Fireplace Road, East Hampton AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Families tour the Pollock-Krasner House and studio, followed by a drip painting workshop for children. Register online. WANT TO GO? $35. 917-502-0790. imaginearted.com.

Natural Dye Demonstration FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 9, 10am-1pm WHERE: Westhampton Beach Historical Society, 101 Mill Road, Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: This dye demonstration will utilize traditional dye materials to produce rich hues processing qualities unobtainable by synthetic means. WANT TO GO? 631-288-1139. whbhistorical.org.

Mix and Make Marvelous Fall Colors

WHEN: Sept. 9-10, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Scientists will make their own paint and create a seasonal work of art. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org. 36

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sept. 16-17, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Design and create your very own dream catcher using yarn and materials from nature. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

Art Workshop: Fish Printing FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 17, 11am-3pm WHERE: Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park Parking Field 5, Fire Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn the ancient Japanese art known as Gyotaku. WANT TO GO? Donations accepted. 631-661-4876. fireislandlighthouse.com.

Scrimshaw Carving Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 23, 1-2pm WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 5 and older WHAT: See how whalers carved scrimshaw as a leisure activity during voyages. WANT TO GO? $12. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Autumn Paint Event for Kids

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 23, 5-6:30pm WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Welcome the crisp, colorful season of autumn by painting a beautiful fall-themed painting. WANT TO GO? $20. 631-608-9048. keytomyart.com.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

71st Annual Shinnecock Powwow

WHEN: Sept. 1-4, Friday, 3pm; Saturday-Monday, 10am WHERE: Shinnecock Reservation, Westgate Road off Montauk Highway, Southampton AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy tribal dances, crafts, storytelling, native foods, demonstrations, dance, and drum competitions. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 children ages 5-12; free for children younger than 5. 631-283-6143. shinnecockindianpowwow.com.

5K Walk/Run

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 10, 8:45am WHERE: Breeze Hill Farm, 31215 Route 48, Peconic AGES: All WHAT: The event, hosted by Eastern Long Island Hospital, includes a 5K walk/run for ages 13 and older and a half-mile kids’ fun run for children ages 6-12. Proceeds benefit Behavioral Health Services. WANT TO GO? $10-$30. 631-477-5164. elih.org.

Long Island Cares Food Truck FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 16, 9:30-11:30am WHERE: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead

AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The Long Island Cares-Harry Chapin Food Bank will provide free ready to eat breakfast items for children. WANT TO GO? 631-727-3228. riverheadlibrary.org.

Long Island Heart Walk FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 17, 8:30am WHERE: Jones Beach, 1000 Ocean Parkway, Field 5, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: Participants will enjoy the non-competitive, 3-mile walk, along with free yoga, Hula-Hooping, and a silent disco to get their hearts pumping. Families can enjoy face-painting, crafts, carnival games, and information on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. WANT TO GO? 516-450-9104. longislandheartwalk.org.

Let’s Walk, Let’s Talk... Stepping Together to Prevent Suicide

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 17, 10:30am-1:30pm WHERE: Long Island Crisis Center, 2740 Martin Ave., Bellmore AGES: All WHAT: An opportunity for people from across Long Island to come together, walk as a community, and raise awareness for suicide prevention. WANT TO GO? $25. 516-679-1111. longislandcrisiscenter.org/thewalk.

Baby Gear Swap FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 23, 10am-2pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: New and expectant parents are invited to stock up on new and gently used clothing, cribs, strollers, and more. Early childhood educators and providers will also be on hand with information for new parents and parents-to-be. WANT TO GO? 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

Tabletop Game Night FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 30, 6pm WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Friends and family can enjoy an evening of tabletop gaming. WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com.

Monarch Beach Walk FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 30, 9-11:30am WHERE: Jones Beach State Park, 1 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: Join this walk along the barrier island, a migratory route for Monarchs during their journey south. Registration required. WANT TO GO? parks.ny.gov.

The Amazing Maize Maze Sponsored by Con Edison

WHEN: Sept. 23-Oct. 29, daily, 11am-4:30pm WHERE: Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park, Queens AGES: All

WHAT: Kids and adults alike will have fun finding their way out of this 3-acre corn labyrinth. The adventure begins with a “Stalk Talk” to prepare participants for the challenge. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 4-11; free for children 3 and younger. 718-347-3276. queensfarm.org.

Parents and Babies Meditation Class

WHEN: Sept. 14-June 21, 2018: Thursdays, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Kadampa Meditation Center Long Island, 282 New York Ave., Huntington AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Relax and enjoy guided meditations with your baby. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-549-1000. meditationonlongisland.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME ‘Uni the Unicorn and the Dream Come True’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 2, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Follow Uni and the little girl who believes in unicorns, as they finally meet and work together to save a magical land and its inhabitants. WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com.

A Visit With Arthur the Aardvark FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 9, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Stop by and say, “hello,” to Arthur the Aardvark. WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com.

‘How to Catch a Monster’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 9, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Parents and children will love this fun, inventive picture book, which reminds us that things aren’t always as scary as they seem. WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com.

‘Princesses Wear Pants’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 16, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Join the unflappable Princess Penelope Pineapple as she finds a clever way to get the job done while staying true to herself. Activities to follow. WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com.

Bookworm Buddies

WHEN: Sept. 21-22, Thursday-Friday, 11am-1pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Celebrate reading this school year by creating your own bookworm buddy to read along with at home. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

‘Big Words for Little Geniuses’ Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 23, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: In this clever picture book by James and Sue Patterson, each letter of the alphabet provides an impressive new word for children to learn. WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com. ›› LongIslandParent 37

Long Island Fair

WHEN: Sept. 16-24, Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage AGES: All WHAT: Held each year at the historic Old Bethpage Village Restoration, the 175th edition of the Long Island Fair features family-friendly entertainment, arts and crafts displays, competitions, and educational exhibits. WANT TO GO? $10; $8 seniors and children ages 5-12; free for children younger than 5. 516-572-8400. lifair.org.

Summer Art and Craft Fair FREE

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALES 5th Annual Greenport Re-Creations Up-Cycled Arts Fair FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 2, 10am WHERE: Greenport High School, 720 Front St., Greenport AGES: All WHAT: This fair places an emphasis on re-created and up-cycled hand crafted items. WANT TO GO? depasmarketfair.com.

2017 Dockside Family Festival

WHEN: Sept. 9-10, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Captree State Park, 3500 Ocean Parkway, Islip AGES: All WHAT: There will be pony rides, crab races, a boat ride, interactive pirate show, children’s games, food, and vendors. WANT TO GO? $8 vehicle use fee. 631-669-0449. nysparks.com.

25th Annual Italian Experience Festival

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 17, 11am-5pm WHERE: Hofstra University South Campus, 1000 Fulton Ave., Hempstead AGES: All WHAT: The festival features food, vendors, handmade crafts, exhibits by cultural organizations, music, dance, poetry, and more. WANT TO GO? $6; $5 seniors; free for children younger than 12. 516463-5067. hofstra.edu.

WHEN: Sept. 1-24, Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Broadway Mall, 358 N. Broadway Commons, Hicksville AGES: All WHAT: Explore local arts and crafts at this mall-wide arts and crafts show. WANT TO GO? 718-241-4630. broadwaymall.com.

28th Annual East End Maritime Festival

WHEN: Sept. 23-24, Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 9am-5pm WHERE: East End Seaport Museum and Marine Foundation, Third Street at the Shelter Island Ferry Dock, Greenport AGES: All WHAT: This weekend-long celebration of local maritime heritage benefits East End Seaport Museum & Marine Foundation. Activities take place throughout the town and include a parade, stories, exhibits, demonstrations, music, and food. WANT TO GO? 631-477-2100. eastendseaport.org.

Fall Into Fun Carnival

WHEN: Sept. 28-Oct. 1, Thursday, 6-10pm; Friday, 6-11pm; Saturday, 12-11pm; Sunday, 12-7pm WHERE: Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: All WHAT: There will be rides, games, and food to kick off the fall season. WANT TO GO? $22 and up. 631-384-8900. msheritagetrust.org.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Slime Time

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 23, 10am-4pm WHERE: Wildwood State Park, 790 Hulse Landing Road, Wading River AGES: All WHAT: Events include children’s games, wagon rides, pony rides, petting zoo, funny photos, inflatables, and build-a-scarecrow contest. WANT TO GO? 631-929-4314. nysparks.state.ny.

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 2, 10-11:30am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: Discover the many creatures that produce slime and the reasons why, then make some slime of your own. WANT TO GO? $4; $3 children; free for children younger than 3; $8 parking fee. 631-265-1054. nysparks.com.

Westbury Farmers and Artists Market FREE

The Extreme Raptor Project

Wildwood Fall Festival FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 24: Sundays, 9am-2pm WHERE: Piazza Ernesto Strada, Post and Maple avenues, Westbury AGES: All WHAT: Stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, pickles, breads, coffee, and honey, and check out the crafts, original art, jewelry, and music from local artists and artisans. WANT TO GO? 516-400-2787. westburyarts.org.

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sept. 2-4, Saturday-Monday, 11:30am-3:30pm WHERE: Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville AGES: All WHAT: The Extreme Raptor Project offers an extraordinary array of birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. WANT TO GO? $18.95; $16.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 631-878-6644. longislandgamefarm.com.

Tiny Tots: Those Little Rascals!

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 7, 10-11am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Each program’s theme will use nature explorations and hands-on activities as a springboard for learning. WANT TO GO? $4; free for children younger than 3. 631-265-1054. nysparks.com.

2017 Remote Controlled Fall Air Show

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 10, 10am-5pm WHERE: Sunken Meadow State Park - Field 2, 1 Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: Watch demonstrations of all types of model air crafts. Rain or shine. WANT TO GO? $10 vehicle use fee. 631-269-4333. nysparks.org.

Jaguar-MG Concours d’Elegance: Classic Automobiles at the Vanderbilt

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 10, 11am-4pm WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport AGES: All WHAT: This year the car clubs will include a youth judging program, in which children and young adults can learn about a variety of classic cars. WANT TO GO? $7; $3 for children younger than 13. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Moonlight Stroll FREE

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 15, 8-10pm WHERE: Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: A bustling park during the day, Sunken Meadow is a different place after the sun sets. Join this leisurely moonlit stroll and enjoy the tranquil night air. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 888-451-4948. nysparks.org.

Big Truck Day

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 16, 10am-12pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children explore the massive machines that share our roads and keep the East End moving. Emergency vehicles, construction and farming machines, and more will be on-site along with the people who drive them. Call to register. WANT TO GO? $14. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

Meet Patches the Giraffe

WHEN: Through Sept. 17: daily, 10:30am WHERE: White Post Farms, 250 Old Country Road, Melville AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Come meet the newest farm family member Patches the Giraffe. She is sweet and loves to give kisses. WANT TO GO? $18.75. 631-351-9373. whitepostfarms.com.

Tiny Tots: Nature Walk

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 21, 10-11am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: The “Let’s Discover Nature” Hour is a special time for parent and child to discover the wonders of their natural world together. Each program’s theme will use nature explorations and hands-on activities. WANT TO GO? $4; free for children younger than 3. 631-265-1054. nysparks.com.

Montauk Surf Fishing Classic

WHEN: Sept. 22-24, Friday-Sunday, 12pm WHERE: Montauk Point State Park, 2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk AGES: 13 and older WHAT: A fishing tournament for the largest striped bass, bluefish, and largest striped bass released. All fish must be hooked and landed from the beach, surf, jetty, bank, or pier. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $15. 631-668-3781. nysparks.com.

SPECIAL NEEDS Sky Zone Cares

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 4, 3-6pm WHERE: Sky Zone Deer Park, 111 Rodeo Drive, Deer Park AGES: All WHAT: Sky Zone dials down the music, increases the staff ratio, and limits capacity for children and adults with special needs. WANT TO GO? $16 per hour. 631-392-2600. skyzone.com/deerpark.

Special Olympics Bowling at the All Star

WHEN: Through Dec. 1: Mondays, 5pm WHERE: The All Star, 96 Main Road, Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Bowlers with special needs are invited to bowl on the main lanes and experience the arcade with the latest games. WANT TO GO? $10 for two games. 631-998-3565. theallstar.com.

Coming up next month: STARTING OCT. 7: A Kooky Spooky Halloween at Theatre Three, Port Jefferson OCT. 7: To Spy or Not to Spy: That is the Question... at the Brewster House, East Setauket OCT 14: Flip FabriQue at the Staller Center for the Arts, Stony Brook

LongIslandParent 39

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Pick Your Own Apples

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Research by Amanda Marrone and Jaime Bonchick

Bite into crunchy, juicy, just-picked apples this month! A day trip to a local orchard yields fresh fruit to take home by the bucket, sweet pastries and baked goods (apple cider doughnuts, please!), and lots of kid-friendly perks, from hayrides to petting zoos. Grown-ups: Some farms even serve up hard cider and homemade wines! Note: Dates are projected and availability is subject to change. We recommend calling ahead before visiting these locations. through Thanksgiving. Hayrides, 5-acre corn maze, wooden toys, and picnic area. Farmers market with pre-picked fruits and vegetables, roasted corn, homemade pies, jams, and snacks. Call for availability. Wickham’s Fruit Farms 28700 Route 25, Cutchogue 631-734-6441 wickhamsfruitfarm.com Apple picking through September into mid-October, Monday-Saturday, 9am4pm. Closed Sunday. Also offers U-pick blackberries and pumpkins. Hayrides in October on Saturdays and Columbus Day, 9am-4pm.

CONNECTICUT Fairfield County

Hank’s Pumpkin Farm 240 Montauk Highway, Water Mill Farm stand: 324 County Road 39, Southampton 631-726-4667; hankspumpkintown.com Apple and pumpkin picking early September through late October, daily, 9:30am-6pm. Corn maze, wagon rides, face painting, farm stand, and roasted corn shack with sweet corn, pies, doughnuts, candy apples, apple cider, and kettle corn. Farm stand open through mid-September. Hayden’s Orchard 561 Hulse Landing Road (near Wildwood State Park), Wading River 631-929-1115 Pick-your-own nectarines through late September, peaches through mid-October, and apples through late October. Call for availability. Open daily, 9am-5pm. Lewin Farms 812 Sound Ave., Wading River

Second location: Fresh Pond Avenue, Baiting Hollow 631-929-4327 lewinfarm.com Apple picking late August through early October, weekends, 9am-4:30pm. Pumpkin picking late September through October. Farm open Monday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. Milk Pail Farm & Orchard 50 Horsemill Lane, Watermill 631-537-2565 milk-pail.com Apple and pumpkin picking from Labor Day through late October, Friday-Sunday and holidays, 10am-5:30pm. The Country Store offers cider, doughnuts, muffins, pies, cookies, and more. Seven Ponds Orchard 65 Seven Ponds Road, Water Mill 631-726-8015 Apple, pumpkin, winter squash, and raspberry picking, daily, 9am-6pm,

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard, LLC 278 Leavenworth Road (Route 110), Shelton 203-926-1098 beardsleyscidermill.com Farm opens in September; check the website for exact opening date. Apple picking September through October, weekends, 10am-5pm. Cash or check only. Dwarf apple trees for easy picking. Cider press on location. Farm store with apple cider and doughnuts, maple syrup, local honey, pumpkin cheesecake, fruit butter, jams, and jellies. Silverman’s Farm 451 Sport Hill Road, Easton 203-261-3306 silvermansfarm.com Apple picking mid-August through midOctober, daily, 9:30am-4:30pm. Peaches available through mid-September and pumpkins available mid-September to October. Animal petting park, farm market, greenhouse, and tractor rides through October.

Hartford County

Litchfield County

Dondero Orchards 529 Woodland St., South Glastonbury 860-659-0294 donderoorchards.com Pick-your-own peaches and plums through September; apples and pears through October, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, and SaturdaySunday, 8am-6pm, during the fall. Bakery with doughnuts, pies, and other baked goods. Greenhouse with flowers and mulch.

Averill Farm 250 Calhoun St., Washington Depot 860-868-2777 averillfarm.com Pick-your-own apples mid-August to Thanksgiving on a scenic family farm; pick-your-own pears through early October. Open daily, 9:30am-5:30pm. Pre-picked fruit, apple cider, hard cider,

doughnuts, jams, jellies, honey, and flowers available on the farm through November. Ellsworth Hill Orchard & Berry Farm 461 Cornwall Bridge Road (Route 4), Sharon 860-364-0025 ellsworthfarm.com Apple picking Labor Day weekend through early November; call for hours.

Blueberries and raspberries available for picking while they last. Family-fun hayrides, corn maze, and apple cider for tasting. Pre-picked fruit and vegetables, freshbaked pies, fresh pretzels, apple cider vinegar, jam, honey, maple syrup, freshly ground peanut butter and cider doughnuts available for purchase. Interactive train display in store area.

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

Easy Pickin’s Orchard 46 Bailey Road, Enfield 860-763-FARM (3276) easypickinsorchard.com Pick-your-own apples from late August through the end of October, along with pears and raspberries, MondayThursday, 9am-12pm (closed Tuesdays); Friday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. Vegetable and flower gardens available for picking and cutting. Cash or check only. Karabin Farms 894 Andrews St., Southington 860-620-0194 karabinfarms.com Apple and pumpkin picking on weekends (Friday-Monday) September-October, 9:30am4pm. Store open daily with farm-raised beef products, chicken, pork, vegetables, and eggs available for sale. Call for updates on hours. Rogers Orchards 336 Long Bottom Road, Southington 2876 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike, Southington 860-229-4240 rogersorchards.com Apple picking Labor Day weekend through October, Friday-Sunday and holiday Mondays, 10am-5pm. Apple cider doughnuts, pies, and local products available at on-site farm store; open daily, August through mid-May.

LongIslandParent 41

Courtesy Katelin Walling

FOOD & NUTRITION

10 Tips to Master Meal Planning ››

Spend the time once a week to create a menu, and you’ll save time, money, and stress when it comes to cooking dinner. By Katelin Walling

nce a week when I was growing up, my parents would have my brothers and me go through our cookbooks and cooking magazines to each pick out one meal we wanted to try and write down the ingredients we needed to buy at the grocery store for that recipe. We also had to check to see what we had in the cupboards already to avoid purchasing ingredients we had on hand. Now that I’m older and living on my own, I do the same, except I have to plan a meal for every day. So on Sunday mornings, I comb through my cookbooks, recipes torn out of magazines, and my favorite cooking blogs, and plan what I’m going to eat for the week. Why? Meal planning saves me time and money, and it can for you, too. Plus, it will save you a lot of stress, says Ruthy Kirwan, creator of PercolateKitchen.com. “Speaking to other parents who were in my position where they’re tired and they’re stressed, and they’re coming home from a long day, the kitchen and cooking and figuring out what to make for dinner is the last thing they want to do at the end of a long day,” she says. “But if you sit down for maybe five to ten minutes at the start of the week, and you look at how your schedule is, figure out what’s in your kitchen already, and then work that into a plan…[it] can save you a ton of time and stress throughout the next seven days.” Meal planning is a money-saver because “you’re not going to end up ordering in as much or doing takeout or going to whatever the closest store is that may not have the items [you need] on sale,” says Jessica Levinson, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N. It also cuts down on food waste, Levinson adds, whether it’s picking two meals that include fresh parsley so you’re not throwing any away (or composting it) or enjoying leftovers for lunch the next day. Levinson also notes that meal planning helps to ensure you have healthy, balanced meals on the table each night, and that you have all the ingredients in the house to make those balanced meals. 42

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

My parents got me and my brothers involved with the mealplanning process as kids—we each had to choose a recipe for the week, and more ofte n than not, I helped ma ke it. Here, my dad and I are making his fam ous biscuits, a recipe I still make today.

I’ve been a practicing meal-planner for almost 20 years and consider myself to be a bit of an expert. Keep these tips in mind when starting out, and you, too, will be an expert in no time.

Tips for Successful Meal Planning

Don’t bite off more than you can chew (pun intended!). Both Levinson and Kirwan recommend starting out by planning meals for two to three days and doing what you typically do (order takeout, cook a frozen pizza, eat leftovers) for the rest of the week. “This way you’re not overdoing it and setting yourself up for something that you can’t stick to,” Levinson says. Once you have those few days down, you can add more and eventually plan out meals for the whole week. In fact, Levinson suggests planning a night of leftovers. “If it’s a family favorite, your kids won’t be upset that they’re having baked ziti two nights in a row because some kids would have that every night if they could,” she adds. Have your schedule for the week handy. Do you have to work late one night, do the kids have after-school activities that will run close to dinnertime, is it date night for you and your partner? These are all things to take into consideration when planning meals for the week. “Be realistic about your abilities and the amount of time you have to cook, and when in doubt, don’t worry about eating leftovers or a frozen pizza,” Kirwan says. Stockpile recipes. Levinson suggests creating a board on Pinterest to pin easy, quick weeknight meals so you have a go-to database of recipes. “Same with any cookbooks you have or recipes you pull out from magazines,” she says. “This way you’re not always having to come up with something new, but you have at your fingertips a group of resources to pull recipes from.”

Chain your meals, as Kirwan says. This is essentially building one meal off of another. For example, if you make chicken enchiladas for dinner one night, cook extra chicken to use in your Alfredo dish for the next night. This way, part of your dinner is already prepped and you save time. “People think it needs to be a brandnew item every evening, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be. In fact, if it is a brand-new item every evening, then it sets you up for failure from the get-go,” Kirwan says. Keep your picky eaters in mind, but don’t make yourself crazy. Meal planning helps cut your time in the kitchen, so planning separate meals for your picky eaters is counterintuitive. Kirwan says she makes sure to have at least one thing her 3-year-old daughter enjoys and will eat on the menu, as well as something new. “She doesn’t have to eat [the new food], but she gets comfortable seeing that it’s there,” she says. And if your child only eats that one familiar thing, that’s okay, Levinson says. “Look at the week in full, and assuming that you have enough meals during the week that your kids do eat more of, if there’s one or two nights during the week that they’re not eating as much, it’s okay because it balances out,” she says. Write it down. While you may be the type of person who prefers mental notes, writing out your meal plan will help it stick with you whether it’s on a special meal planning chart, a simple calendar, or a chalk- or dry-erase board. Plus, your kids (and partner) can look at it and see what’s for dinner rather than bugging you about it (and maybe take initiative to start cooking!). Get the kids involved. Older kids, tweens, and teens can help pick out recipes to set up the weekly meal plan. “Let’s say it’s a family with three kids, so you could say, [Monday] is going to be Joe’s choice, and Tuesday night is James, and Wednesday night is the third child. Everybody can pick what they want as the meal for a night during the week,” Levinson says. A way to get younger kids involved is to let them pick an item from the produce aisle they want to try and integrating it in a meal that’s already planned. “I usually recommend planning your menu and then basing your grocery list on the menu,” Levinson says. But if you take your kids grocery shopping, “I’m a big fan of saying, pick something from the produce aisle that you want to try, and they’ll pull something from the produce aisle,” which then needs to be integrated into one of the planned meals, she adds. Don’t forget to get the kids to help you do the cooking. Kirwan says her daughter is obsessed with pizza, so Kirwan will roll out the dough and her daughter will help with adding the sauce and toppings. “The more active you get kids in the kitchen and feel like they’re a part of the meal planning process, the cooking process, I think you have a better chance of getting them to eat the things you made,” Kirwan says.

And, as Jessica Jones, M.S., R.D., C.D.E., and Wendy Lopez, M.S., R.D., say in their FoodHeavenMadeEasy.com blog post, “The Ultimate Meal Planning Guide,” once you have your grocery list (based off your meal plan for the week), check to see if you have any of those ingredients in your cupboards already. This way you’ll avoid buying items you don’t need. Prep ingredients for all of your meals at the same time. “Chop all of your fruits and vegetables, cook your grains, wash your greens, and store in airtight containers,” Jones and Lopez say in their blog post. They also suggest investing in good food storage containers so your pre-prepped foods and meals don’t go bad. Plus, ingredient prep time is also a good way to get older kids involved in the process. Be flexible. Sometimes life gets in the way—whether it’s an unexpected meeting, delays on public transit, or a flat tire—so learning to take things in stride with meal planning will go a long way. “In those instances I try to teach people to learn how to pivot and have things stored in the freezer for those crazy busy days,” Kirwan says, or find a new way to use those ingredients, or just make the meal the following night. As with all things in life: The more you practice, the better you’ll get, Levinson says. So don’t be too hard on yourself if the week’s menu doesn’t go exactly according to plan.

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

www.LIspeech.com

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

• Language Disorders • Memory & Auditory Processing Difficulties • Fluency • • Voice Disorders • Motor Planning Disorders • Deviate Swallowing • Tongue Thrust • • Feeding & Swalling Problems /Aversions • Thumb Sucking • Articulation Disorders • Oral Facial Muscle Weakness •

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

“FEES”...Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing Participating with most Major Health Insurance Companies With 7 locations across Nassau & Suffolk

Take stock of what you already have in the refrigerator and pantry. Before sitting down to plan your meals for the week, check out what you have in your fridge that needs to be used before it goes bad and see what ingredients you already have in your cupboards. “So if I have a bunch of cilantro that I used the week before,” Levinson says, “I’m going to base at least one or two meals on where can I use that cilantro so it’s not going to go bad and I don’t waste my money on throwing out food.” LongIslandParent 43

Is My Kid a Genius?

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How to tell if your child is gifted, a prodigy, or just plain smart—and what to do about it By Amanda Marrone

ndi Stix, director of G-tec Kids, a program for gifted and talented students in New Rochelle, was teaching a math class about finding a pattern to discover the square root of any given number. The class eventually came up with a pattern, until one child proclaimed, “The pattern will work up until 10,000 and then fall apart.” Astonished, Stix says she asked how the child knew that, and he answered, “I can just see it.” He turned out to be right—a case of profound giftedness, or some may even say, a prodigy. Every child has her own talents and all children are unique in their own ways. But when it comes to cognitive development and intelligence, how do parents and educators judge whether a child is more than just your average smart kid?

Identifying Giftedness

Giftedness can present itself in early childhood, according to the National Association of Gifted Children, which lists the characteristics of gifted children, such as an excellent memory, an unusually high vocabulary or sentence structure for their age, or a highly developed curiosity. However, there are different ways to classify and identify giftedness, since every child is unique.

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

There are many smart kids in the world; however gifted students make up only 6-10 percent of the population, according to the NAGC. Clinically, giftedness is defined as anyone with an IQ of 130 or higher. If an IQ exceeds the 145-150 range, a person is considered profoundly gifted. Some children are gifted at just about everything. “There are a small percentage of gifted kids who excel in every subject as well as most extracurricular activities,” says Tobi J. Phillips, president and founder of Village East Gifted, a program for gifted children with locations in Huntington Station and Roslyn Heights. “They are very rare, but I do see them.” More frequently, though, giftedness presents itself in one particular field, such as music, art, or math. Therefore, one important factor in identifying giftedness is determining how a child is gifted. “Our curriculum follows Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences, with the premise that students can be intelligent in different ways, such as cognitively, physically, mathematically, or musically,” Phillips says. If your child is gifted in mathematics, for example, she will display extreme excellence and interest in the subject by doing puzzles and games and logic problems in her spare time, according

to a Forbes article, “How to Tell If Your Child’s Gifted.” Children who are more profoundly gifted might even begin doing algebra before kindergarten. Although there are tests to prove that a child is gifted rather than just bright, many experts in the field believe giftedness can be discovered without a test. Nevertheless, educators will administer tests to see if a child is gifted, including the Stanford Binet (L-M), Wescher Intelligence Scale for Children, or general standardized tests such as the SAT. There are so many factors that come into play when determining whether a child is gifted, so it is important for educators and parents to see the child as a whole. Many kids can score very high on tests, but IQ is not the only factor when it comes to true giftedness, Stix says. The way a child challenges material and reacts to that material is where people see true gifted potential. Stix, therefore, is not a fan of just using tests to judge giftedness. “I am very uncomfortable with the idea of testing giftedness because you are saying on that date, on that time, and that environment will the child present themselves to meet the standards of the school,” she says. “I think the most important thing I distinguish between a gifted child and a bright child is if the child is inventing, creating, producing, designing within whatever area of expertise or passion that they have.”

Behavior Issues

Although gifted children are intellectually advanced for their age, many face unique social issues. High expectations and the pressure put on gifted children can lead to stress and anxiety, writes Jennifer Murdock-Smith in “Understanding the Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted Children,” a 2013 article in Rivier Academic Journal. “Gifted children’s cognitive development also often occurs at a more advanced rate than social/emotional development, which makes fitting in with peers difficult. This cognitive advancement can also have a corresponding high degree of moral development and sense for the need to follow rules, which can result in ‘bossiness’ and rigid behavior furthering affect peer relations,” Murdock-Smith writes in the article. In the classroom, some gifted children choose to be very polite and helpful and become the teacher’s helper, Phillips says. Since these students are usually way ahead of their classmates academically, they become a mini teacher’s assistant, helping the teacher with anything. Others quietly go along with their classmates so they can more easily assimilate with their peers, choosing to keep their giftedness a secret, Phillips says. They remain middle-of-the-road behaviorally—not acting out and not being the teacher’s helper— while getting perfect scores on everything and not bragging about it. These children also tend not answer all the questions, even though they know the answer, because they do not want to draw attention from their peers. However, once gifted children are put into a gifted program where the other students are at their level, their behavior can change. Phillips tells the story of a child who was new to a gifted and talented program. He was accustomed to being the smartest child in the room and impressing everyone around him, including the adults. When he entered the class on the first day, he stood up and said he can count to 20 in Spanish, and asked if he could recite it to the class. “I said I will be happy to listen to him when the class is over,” Phillips says. He was very quiet during the class, which Phillips says can be expected since he was now around other peers who might be more intelligent than him.

At the end of class, the student again asked if he could count in Spanish, but before he even began another child blurted out, “Well, I can count to 100 in Mandarin,” followed by another who said, “I can count to 100 in Romanian, Cantonese, and Sanskrit.” The moral: It is important for gifted students to be around others of the same intellectual level, so they have the chance to be challenged in the classroom.

Beyond Just Gifted

What if a child’s cognitive level exceeds even giftedness? These children are extremely rare and present themselves with seemingly miraculous capabilities. These kids are generally known as prodigies. “One definition of the term prodigy is a child who has achieved an appreciable measure of adult intellectual understanding in a particular field before he or she is out of the years devoted to secondary school education,” according to the article “Prodigies of Nature” by J.S. Jenkins in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. A prodigy will become of a master of a particular field at a young age. Mozart was considered a music prodigy and was able to identify pitch correctly and quickly without external reference by the age of 7—an extraordinarily rare ability, even for adults, Jenkins writes Stix, who also has worked closely with some prodigies, explains: “I think prodigies, the speed they integrate at is simply much faster. The links they make in terms of integrating material is higher and their productions are most complex. It is a very difficult thing to raise a prodigy because emotionally they want to be their age level but cognitively they can be light years ahead of themselves.” Prodigies often experience a lot of loneliness because other kids cannot connect with them, Stix says. Parents raising a prodigy need to try their best to try to get their child into programs to engage with others like them, she advises.

Raising a Gifted Child

Whether someone is bright, gifted, or even a prodigy, parents need to keep in mind that every child is still an individual and parents and educators must cater to what is in the best interest of that particular person. The most important factor in helping a child is trying to keep her brain stimulated, experts say. “When a parent finds out that his or her child is gifted,” Phillips says, “I always recommend spending as much time as possible visiting science and art museums, reading classic literature and nonfiction books, traveling to historic destinations and arranging play dates with children of similar intellectual abilities and interests. If they are getting enrichment outside the classroom, they will be more patient with the standard curriculum.” For example, she continues, “If they’re in a classroom and they are assigned a book report on Charlotte’s Web, a parent should reach out to the teacher to allow the child to select a more advanced novel after she or he has completed the assignment based on Charlotte’s Web.” Whether it is signing the child up to be in a gifted and talented program or speaking to an educator to ensure the appropriate measures are taken within the regular school environment, it is important that giftedness is not ignored, experts agree. By enriching a child or putting him in a gifted program, a child will be given the tools to thrive.

LongIslandParent 45

Left Behind

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In families with two children, an older sibling’s departure for college can spark mixed emotions in the younger child who remains at home. Here’s how to cope. By Bethany Braun-Silva

hen Queens resident Sarah Richard is asked if she will miss her little sister when Sarah leaves for college next year, the 17-year-old rolls her eyes and says, “Yeah, I’m going to miss that dork.” Although it is just about a year away, the Richard girls are already contemplating Sarah’s departure. The girls have lived across the hall from one another for the past 14 years, a fact that is on 14-year-old Rebecca’s mind when she says, “I’ll be sad, for sure, but I definitely want to visit.” Even if it seems like your kids spent the past 15 years fighting over everything, this is an all-too-common feeling when one sibling leaves for college—especially for families with two children, where the younger one suddenly finds herself an “only child.” The sibling who remains at home can be left with a number of new emotions to deal with, not to mention a shift in the family dynamics and a much quieter house. These feelings can range from relief to abandonment, and will often fluctuate even after a new routine is put in place. To help with the adjustment, we’re offering tips on how to help your younger child cope when his sibling goes off to college. (Families with more than two children will face their own unique issues when the eldest leaves home, but these tips are applicable to them as well.)

Inclusion is Key

The college application process can go on for years. With the hustle and bustle of visiting colleges, filling out applications, writing essays, and ultimately choosing a college, your younger son or daughter may end up feeling like a background player in 46

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

the family. Stephanie Richard, Sarah and Rebecca’s mom, suggests including younger siblings in the process from the very beginning. “Ultimately both kids are going to eventually go to college,” she says. “We had our younger daughter create a list of questions for potential colleges while on tours for her older sister that were based on her specific interests.” This was a great way for her younger daughter to feel included in the process, Richard says, which was especially important since they dedicated quite a few family vacations to touring colleges. Parents can also opt to involve the younger sibling in minor details of the process, suggests Gayle Sturmer, LCSW-R, who practices in Nyack and Tarrytown. “Letting children contribute to brainstorming transition suggestions is empowering for the child and allows them to be part of the launching process,” she says. “The non-college bound child sometimes gets lost in the excitement and/or anxiety about the transition for the collegebound child. Having both children involved in perhaps choosing things for the dorm room, certainly with the big freshman move into the dorm, is great way to be inclusive.”

Time for a New Routine

With one child out of the house, it is time not only to establish new family dynamics but also a new routine. Your younger child may take the transition in stride, reveling in being an “only child,” but others may struggle with it. “The key to making any transition easier for children and teens is to keep some things consistent and create some

Encourage Communication If your younger child really misses having face-to-face time with her older sibling, have them schedule a digital date once a week. FaceTime or Skype is a great way to connect with your child who is away. Once a weekly date is established, this will give both siblings something to look forward to each

week—after all, the child who is away at college may also be experiencing some level of homesickness, and this is a great way for her to reconnect with home. If video chat doesn’t work, “a quick text, an Instagram, Snapchat, or Facebook message goes a long way for children and adolescents. Regardless of our opinion of social media and technology, we are flooded with it and our children are tied to it. In this case, it can be used

as an easy simulated ‘visit,’” Sturmer says. Parents can also help their younger children connect to their older siblings by working on creating a care package together or making plans to visit as a family. When the older one is back from college, parents can arrange for “sibling-only” outings or even nights at home. Having a child go off to college is an exciting time, but can also be fraught with a lot of different emotions

for everyone in the family. “If a child (or parent) is feeling very challenged by the change in family dynamic and circumstance, consulting with a psychotherapist who is knowledgeable with this stage of life and the specific challenges the family members are experiencing is important. To wait until things escalate can be problematic and unnecessary. Sometimes just a simple consult can go a long way,” Sturmer says.

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things together that are new, different, and tailored to the appeal of the younger sibling,” Sturmer suggests. Have the younger sibling decide what he wants for dinner, or what family movie she chooses to watch one night. He might get excited at the idea that there is no one there with whom he needs to negotiate these choices and that he can have his first choice pick more often now. Sturmer also suggests “creating new rituals” between parents and the child who is home. Pick a day to do something special after school, such as get frozen yogurt or go out to a favorite restaurant. “This is an opportunity to create a new dynamic between the parent and the child at home,” Sturmer says. If your child is really struggling with loneliness, it’s important to recognize the things that have not changed, the appealing things that still exist, and to create new things, Sturmer says. “Often children and teens have a view that can be distorted—an adolescent brain is working from a very different place than an adult brain—so it’s very important to try to gently acknowledge the loneliness and emphasize the things that challenge the negative thinking.” Remind younger children of all the benefits they have now that the older child is out of the house. These may include having the family car or other shared items to themselves, having more room in the house for sleepovers, and receiving more attention from parents.

DEMI

E X YEARS - OF E CE LLENC

LongIslandParent 47

All photos: Amy Neunsinger

FOOD & NUTRITION

Clockwise from left: Grain-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake, Chocolate Hummus, and “Nutella” Bliss Balls

Lunch Treats Made Healthier

››

When the kids beg for sweets in their lunch boxes, here are two recipes for desserts you won’t feel guilty about sending to school. By Pamela Salzman “Nutella” Bliss Balls

Makes 12 • Vegan, DF, GF 1½ cups raw hazelnuts 1½ cups Medjool dates, pitted (about 12 dates) ¼ cup raw cacao powder ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon sea salt 1. Toast the hazelnuts: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Pour the nuts onto a pie plate and toast for 10-15 minutes, or until skins blister. Remove from the oven and allow to cool; rub the nuts in kitchen towel to remove the skins. 2. Place all the ingredients in a food processor and blend until the nuts are finely chopped and you have a well-combined mass that is moist enough to roll into balls. Depending on your food processor, this could take a couple of minutes. 3. Roll the mixture, using your hands, to form 1½ - to 2-inch balls. 4. These can be eaten immediately, or refrigerate to firm them for a few hours. Store them in the fridge in a covered container for up to seven days.

Grain-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake

Makes 1 8- or 9-inch square pan • Vegetarian, GF, DF This is probably the most popular dessert I have ever taught in a class. My students consistently report back with success stories after serving this cake to their kids, at parties, and to their friends. After telling my son that this cake contained zucchini, he inhaled another piece and, with crumbs falling out of his mouth, declared, “I don’t even care.” It’s that good. You can also bake the batter in regular muffins tins or mini muffins tins. Just watch the time, because regular muffins will likely take 20 to 25 minutes; and minis, 7 to 12 minutes, depending on the size of your tin. These also freeze amazingly well. Coconut oil for pan 1 cup creamy, unsweetened, unsalted almond butter, raw or roasted, or sunflower butter 48

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

1/ cup pure Grade A maple syrup or honey 3 ¼ cup raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder ¼ teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder, regular or decaffeinated (optional) 1 large egg 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking soda 1½ cups shredded zucchini (about 2 small) 1 cup DF dark or semisweet chocolate chips ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8- or 9-inch square pan with coconut oil. If you want to remove the cake from the pan in one piece, line it with unbleached parchment paper as well. 2. In a large bowl, combine the almond butter, maple syrup, cacao powder, salt, coffee powder, if using, egg, vanilla, and baking soda until smooth. 3. Stir in the zucchini, chocolate chips, and nuts, if using. 4. Pour into the prepared pan and bake until just set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with dry crumbs. Do not overbake. A 9-inch pan will take about 30 minutes; an 8-inch will take about 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before serving. TIP: Instant coffee powder enhances the chocolate flavor in baked goods. It is completely optional, though. There are coffee alternatives, such as Pero, which is a chicory and barley-based product with no caffeine. Pero is not gluten-free or grain-free, due to the barley. Do not use coffee grounds in place of instant coffee powder. Excerpted from Kitchen Matters: More than 100 Recipes and Tips to Transform the Way You Cook and Eat—Wholesome, Nourishing, Unforgettable by Pamela Salzman. Copyright © 2017. Available from Da Capo Lifelong Books, an imprint of Perseus Books, LLC, a subsidiary of Hachette Book Group, Inc.

Find recipes for the chocolate hummus (pictured above) and white bean tahini blondies at ›› nymetroparents.com/treats

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT MAD SCIENCE OF LONG ISLAND Call for locations throughout Long Island: 855-264-1672 madscienceli.com info@madscienceli.com A Mad Scientist brings all the necessary equipment to you. Party packages include invitations and a take-home activity each child makes. Optional grand finales include Bubbling Potions, Rockets, and Cotton Candy. PARTY PLACES ART BUZZ KIDS 35 Jackson Ave., Syosset 516-802-4954 syosset@wineanddesign.com 21 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre wineanddesign.com Spark your child’s creativity and imagination! Art Buzz Kids offers family-friendly painting and craft classes for children of all ages. Our birthday party themes are designed to inspire and excite all children. @ 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 30,000 square feet of fun including 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, roller coaster, a carousel, 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 cookie baking and decorating, cupcakes “from scratch,” muffin and scone baking, and brownies. 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@cshfishhatchery.org Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium! See the hatchery and aquarium’s exciting live exhibits. Feed the hungry trout and learn about fish, reptiles, and amphibians with an up-close animal encounter. GIVE IT YOUR ALL SPORTS 2127 Lakeland Ave., Ronkonkoma 631-676-4412 giveityourallsports.com We deliver high-energy activities coupled with on-field coaching that is age-appropriate. Let ‘em have a ball with a Give It Your All Sports Party! KEY TO MY ART INC. 10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 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! KIDZHITZ 304 Main St., Huntington 631-470-9788 kidzhitz.biz kidzhitz@gmail.com RockStar Parties at KIDZHITZ are like no other party. Children record their own song in our state-of-the-art recording studio, design their own CD cover, and perform for each other on our Main Street location stage. LONG ISLAND AQUARIUM & EXHIBITION CENTER 431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH20 (426) 631-208-9200 x186 longislandaquarium.com Have an Aquatic Birthday Party at the Long Island Aquarium! Take a private tour of the Aquarium, receive preferential treatment at our Submarine Simulator and Discovery Tower rides, and special seating at our Sea Lion Show! MY GYM CHILDREN’S FITNESS CENTER 1320 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook 631-751-KIDS (5437) mgym.com/stonybrook 128 W. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station 631-427-GYMS (4967)

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

mygym.com/huntingtonstation My Gym parties include exclusive use of the gym, including a zip line, rock wall, trampoline, trapeze, climbing structures, and slides. Instructors lead your guests through action-packed activities of your choice from Gazillion Bubbles to sports, with multiple theme options. 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. SAFARI ADVENTURE 1074 Pulaski St., Riverhead 631-727-4386 thesafariadventure.com dan@thesafariadventure.com Safari Adventure is Long Island’s premier family fun center and birthday party place. Fun for the whole family with inflatables, four-level soft playground, arcade, interactive floor games, and a full café! SMITHTOWN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2 E. Main St., Smithtown 631-724-3700 smithtownpac.org boxoffice@smithtownpac.org Treat your child to a different type of birthday party this year! Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts presents great shows for kids, and a private room for your gathering. Cast members will meet with your party to sign autographs and pose for pictures. THE VILLAGE ARTIST 630 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-0715 thevillageartist.com lori@thevillageartist.com Create art for your next birthday party! The Village Artist Fine Arts Center is proud to host your next birthday party. Enjoy a fun and creative time with your family and friends including an art project of your choice. LongIslandParent 49

Professional services

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 with 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. PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF SUFFOLK COUNTY: DR. MIKE IOANNOU 2171 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 145, Commack 631-486-6364 3237 Route 112, Building 6, Suite 7B, Medford 631-320-0880 supermolar.com mikeioannou@hotmail.com Dr. Michael Ioannou, a native of Suffolk County, strives to make visiting the dentist a fun experience, all while providing exceptional dental care. He uses excellent behavioral management approaches, a child-friendly environment (TV and cartoons in all treatment rooms), and he sings to the patients! SUFFOLK PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 8 Medical Drive, Port Jefferson Station 631-928-8585 6144 Route 25 A, Suite D20, Wading River 631-929-7575 750 Roanoke Ave., Riverhead 631-727-8585 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 50

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

disorders, fluency, voice disorders, auditory processing disorders, and feeding and swallowing disorders.

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS

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.

STRATEGIC STAFFING WORKS Brooklyn and Long Island locations 631-649-6573 strategicstaffingworks.com strategicstaffingworks@gmail.com Offers workshops designed to help parents, family, and friends aid people with diverse abilities in their search for volunteer opportunities related to their field of college interest.

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. RMG SPEECH PATHOLOGY RACHEAL MCINNES, M.A., C.C.C.-S.L.P., SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST 775 Park Ave., Suite 255-4, Huntington 631-372-4142 rmgtherapy.com Racheal Gardega McInnes, speech-language pathologist, is founder of RMG Speech Pathology. Treatment areas include expressive/receptive language disorders, articulation

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

FOOD & NUTRITION THE FOOD WIZARD FOR KIDS Serving all of Long Island 631-606-2680 thefoodwizardforkids.com info@thefoodwizardforkids.com Making food and nutrition fun for the whole family. Available for speaking engagements. Also provides workshops for kids, family night dinners, and healthy weight counseling. LEGAL SERVICES LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C. 1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 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. SPECIAL NEEDS ALTERNATIVES FOR CHILDREN 1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 South Service Road, Dix Hills 631-271-0777 14 Research Way, East Setauket 631-331-6400

168 Hill St., Southampton 631-283-3272 alternatives4children.org Licensed day care, 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. LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C. 1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 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. 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. DR. ELLEN T RICHER, EDUCATION CLINICIAN & COUNSELOR Convenient Long Island locations 347-668-3676 etrdream@aol.com We co-develop strategies to improve executive functioning, sensory processing, and social cognition challenges, and provide enrichment opportunities to engage and motivate highly capable yet underachieving children.

RMG SPEECH PATHOLOGY RACHEAL MCINNES, M.A., C.C.C.-S.L.P., SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST 775 Park Ave., Suite 255-4, Huntington 631-372-4142 rmgtherapy.com Racheal Gardega McInnes, speech-language pathologist, is founder of RMG Speech Pathology. Treatment areas include expressive/receptive language disorders, articulation disorders, fluency, voice disorders, auditory processing disorders, and feeding and swallowing disorders. SPECIAL NEEDS EMPLOYMENT STRATEGIC STAFFING WORKS Brooklyn and Long Island locations 631-649-6573 strategicstaffingworks.com strategicstaffingworks@gmail.com Offers workshops designed to help parents, family, and friends aid people with diverse abilities in their search for employment and life-fulfilling volunteer opportunities. THERAPY & COUNSELORS LOUIS E. MORA, PH.D., PSYCHOLOGIST P.C. 70 Glen Cove Road, Suite 201, Roslyn Heights 347-740-5690 lmoraphd.com Dr. Mora specializes in psychological testing. This includes neuropsychological testing, giftedness examinations, and evaluating for the presence of psychological disorders. DR. ELLEN T RICHER, EDUCATION CLINICIAN & COUNSELOR Convenient Long Island locations 347-668-3676 etrdream@aol.com We co-develop strategies to improve executive functioning, sensory

processing, and social cognition challenges, and provide enrichment opportunities to engage and motivate highly capable yet underachieving children. TUTORS & TEST PREP ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITY: ST. PATRICK TUTORING CENTER St. Patrick Church, Smithtown 631-724-1261 stpatsyouth.com spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick Tutoring Center is here to assist your learner from kindergarten to 12th grades with Catholic Entrance Exam Prep, SAT, Regents, or daily schoolwork. ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITY: YOUTH ENRICHMENT LEARNING CENTER St. Patrick Church, 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. 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. Enriching every qualified, gifted child. We are also a John Hopkins CTY info and SAT testing center.

OPEN HOUSES 2017 Chance To Dance

140 N. Belle Mead Road, Suite F, Setauket 631-246-9650 chancetodancestudios.com chance2dance@aol.com Stop by our open house to register, ask questions, purchase shoes or dancewear, tour the studio, or just visit. Friday, Sept. 8 from 5-7:30pm, or Saturday, Sept. 9 from 10am-12:30pm. Classes begin Sept. 11.

Grace Music School

Steinway & Sons 505 Walt Whitman Road, Melville 631-470-9705 gracemusicschool.com info@gracemusicschool.com Grace Music School is hosting an open house on Sept. 16 at our Melville location. It will include student performances, refreshments, and school tours. All attendees will receive music lesson discounts.

Huntington Learning Centers

656 Sunrise Highway, Baldwin 516-867-4041 607 E. Main St., Bay Shore 631-968-5100 79-81 Westbury Ave., Carle Place 516-747-5600 Elwood Shopping Center, 1928B Jericho Turnpike, East Northport 631-462-8900 Phillips Plaza 639 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-568-1900 1506 Northern Blvd., Manhasset 516-365-4455

South Gate Shopping Center, 49-34 Merrick Road, Massapequa Park 516-799-9500 Gateway Plaza, 499-5 Sunrise Highway, Patchogue 631-289-4900 443 S. Oyster Bay Road, Suite B, 2nd ﬂoor, Plainview 516-681-0400 Smithtown Shopping Center 8 Miller Place, Smithtown 631-360-0422 huntingtonhelps.com Join us for an open house on Sept. 6 or 7, from 10am-2pm at the Bay Shore, East Northport, Patchogue, Plainview, or Smithtown locations.

Kadampa Meditation Center Long Island

282 New York Ave., Huntington 631-549-1000 meditationonlongisland.org Join us at our Family Open House! Sunday, Sept. 10, 11:30am-1pm. Discover the secret tools for happy, stress-free parents and kids: meditation classes for kids, teens, and adults.

Posey School

57 Main St., Northport 631-757-2700 poseyschool.com poseyschoolofdance@gmail.com Posey Dance Repertory Company’s Nutcracker Ballet auditions for dancers ages 3 and older will be held Sept. 9 from 3-5pm with a parent meeting after from 5-5:30pm. Audition not required for ages 3-5.

Long Island’s Premier Lice Treatment Centers

866-561-0492

RMG Speech Pathology Racheal McInnes, M.A. CCC-SLP

Oceanside

2463 S. Long Beach Rd.

Licensed Speech Pathologists Specializing in Evalua�on and Treatment of:

Language Disorders • Auditory/Memory Processing Diﬃcul�es Evalua�on and Treatment of Swallowing & Feeding Disorders Motor Planning Disorders • Voice Disorders • Fluency/Stu�ering Disorders Ar�cula�on Disorders • Diagnos�c Tes�ng to Substan�ate Needs Contact Us: 631-372-4142 • www.rmgtherapy.com 775 Park Ave. Atrium Suite 255-4, Hun�ngton, NY 11743

Deer Park

$10 OFF One HeadCheck OR 10% OFF One Treatment

1755 Deer Park Ave.

Glen Head

679 Glen Cove Ave.

www.FairyLiceMothers.com

May Be Covered Under Insurance * Covered under FLEX Health Spending We Accept Competitor’s Coupons—One coupon per visit

LongIslandParent 51

Meet the Health Care

PROFESSIONAL To be in this section, call 631-472-5437 or email nympads@davlermedia.com Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County Dr. Mike Ioannou 2171 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 145, Commack 631-486-6364 3237 Route 112, Building 6, Suite 7B, Medford 631-320-0880 supermolar.com

Dr. Michael Ioannou, a native of Suffolk County, received his dental degree at the University of Connecticut - School of Dental Medicine, with a residency in pediatric dentistry from Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center. A friendly, patient dentist, Dr. Ioannou strives to make visiting the dentist a fun experience, all while providing exceptional dental care. He uses excellent behavioral management approaches, a child-friendly environment (TV and cartoons in all treatment rooms), and he sings to the patients! Dr. Ioannou currently participates with most insurance companies and has convenient evening and Saturday office hours.

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, is owner and operator of Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. Along 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 FEES—Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing—are also offered. There is a total of seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies and offering evening and Saturday hours.

Allied Physicians Group, Peconic Pediatrics, Dr. Megan Kasnicki M.D., F.A.A.P. 34 Commerce Drive, Suite 2, Riverhead 631-722-8880 peconicpediatrics.com

Dr. Kasnicki is a graduate of SUNY Downstate College of Medicine. She completed her pediatrics residency at New York University and is a board-certified pediatrician. She has a special interest in caring for underserved populations, especially in managing the psychosocial and cultural concerns of immigrant families. She is fluent in Polish and is active in the local community.

September 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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.

Dr. Michael Gruttadauria, The Center for Integrative and Innovative Therapies (The CIIT Center) 131 Sunnyside Blvd., Suite 100, Plainview 516-243-8660 theciitcenter.com

Dr. Michael Gruttadauria leads the operations at an advanced treatment center for autism spectrum disorder called The CIIT Center. The CIIT Center’s mission is to approach each child with autism as a total entity by enhancing the biomedical, neurological, nutritional, electrical, and immune system of each of our patients and combining this with occupational, physical, and speech therapies, along with applied behavioral analysis. Our comprehensive approach starts with identifying the underlying factors that may be holding the child back, not just treating their symptoms. This gives each child every opportunity to reach their potential.

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

Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-of-the-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted. Complete pediatric and adolescent care, as well as baby, camp, school, and sports physicals. Certified urgent care recommended by Urgent Care Association of America. Thirty years of dedication to our patients. The offices are open seven days a week including holidays, 8am-11pm.

Louis E. Mora, Ph.D., Psychologist P.C. 70 Glen Cove Road, Suite 201, Roslyn Heights 347-740-5690 lmoraphd.com

Dr. Mora works with children and adults. He specializes in psychological testing, which helps improve diagnosing and treatment planning. Such testing includes neuropsychological testing, giftedness examinations, and evaluating for the presence of psychological disorders. This includes evaluating for ADHD and possible consequences of head injury. He has years of experience doing such testing with various populations. He earned his doctorate in clinical psychology and postdoctoral education in forensic psychology from St. John’s University. He is also an adjunct professor of psychology at St. Francis College.

AD INDEX

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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS

Ohman School Of Ballet............................................... 18

Island Orthodontics........................................................11

TJE Dance Force.......................................................... 19

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

Racheal McInnes.......................................................... 51

TJE Dance Force.......................................................... 19

Louis Mora, Ph.D.......................................................... 52

BounceU - Farmingdale............................................... 30

DEVELOPMENTAL

Pediatric Immediate Care......................................... 7, 52

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery................................ 30

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol........................................ 21

The Food Wizard for Kids............................................. 19

Allied Physicians Group............................................ 9, 52

MUSIC

Key to My Art................................................................ 26

Alternatives for Children Daycare................................. 25

The Culture Connection................................................ 26

Music Together, LLC..................................................... 23

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool............. 26, 52

Music Together, LLC..................................................... 23

Northwell Health Ice Center / NY Islanders.................. 17

The C.I.I.T. Center.................................................. 29, 52

Not Just Art................................................................... 25

Picasso Kidz................................................................. 26

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

Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County........................ 3, 52

BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech................ 43, 52

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING

CAMPS

Racheal McInnes.......................................................... 51

Chance to Dance.......................................................... 25

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery................................ 30

Louis Mora, Ph.D.......................................................... 52

Key to My Art................................................................ 26

PLAY SPACES BounceU - Farmingdale............................................... 30

LI Lutheran Day School at St. Pauls............................. 25

EDUCATION

Music Together, LLC..................................................... 23

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol........................................ 21

Not Just Art................................................................... 25

Alternatives for Children Daycare................................. 25

RELIGIOUS

Picasso Kidz................................................................. 26

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool............. 26, 52

Diocese of RVC............................................................ 56

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

Diocese of RVC............................................................ 56

Holy Angels Regional School......................................... 7

Village East Gifted........................................................ 47

Fire Island School......................................................... 29

LI Lutheran Day School at St. Pauls............................. 25

Holy Angels Regional School......................................... 7

St. Patrick’s Youth Community .................................... 23

CHILD CARE / DAY CARE

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

Alternatives for Children Daycare................................. 25

Law Offices of Brad H Rosken..................................... 30

SPECIAL EVENTS

YMCA of Long Island.................................................... 41

LI Lutheran Day School at St. Pauls............................. 25

Big Apple Circus............................................................. 9

LIU Center for Gifted Youth.......................................... 25 CLASSES

St. Patrick’s Youth Community .................................... 23

SPECIAL NEEDS

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol........................................ 21

Village East Gifted........................................................ 47

Allied Physicians Group............................................ 9, 52 Alternatives for Children Daycare................................. 25

BounceU - Farmingdale............................................... 30 Chance to Dance.......................................................... 25

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS