Suffolk Parent September 2018

LongIsland SUFFOLK EDITION

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM SEPTEMBER 2018

BACK TO

SCHOOL! • Help your student thrive

• Resources to get ready for class

NEW! After-School and Education planners

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Find the perfect activity and school for your child

Saving for College It’s never too soon to start!

And the Winner Is…

A behind-the-scenes peek at our cover contest photo shoot

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

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SOMETHING for the

WHOLE FAMILY LIU - PRATT RECREATION CENTER, BROOKVILLE 11AM–3PM Live Reptiles • Gymnastics • Soccer • Zumba Inflatable Basketball Pop-A-Shot • Clowns • Magic Computer Coding • Robotics • Face Painting Balloon Twisting • And Much More!

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Fun Activities

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Visit LIParentsDay.com and use code “SP” for your FREE family ticket!

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contents table of

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

by Land’s End (landsend.com)

september 2018

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back-to-school

Cute Stuff Alert!

A behind-the-scenes look at our annual cover contest photo shoot

Family Fun in Manhattan

Two can’t-miss events and two venues to visit while you’re in NYC this month

16 Help Your Young Learner Thrive 18 Back-to-School Directory

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24 Education Planner 26 After-School Planner

raising kids 6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 5 Rights Your Child Has in School 12 A Farewell to My Foster Daughter 14 Cute Stuff Alert!

40 The Benefits of Baby Classes 42 From Friends to Falling Out 48 Party Central 50 Professional Services 52 Meet the Doctor 53 Advertisers’ Index 54 Quotables

things to do 13 Squeezy Bottle Rocket 30 Family Fun in Manhattan

Kitchen: Trending

Five big design fads happening in kitchens right now, according to interior designers

family life 44 Saving for Higher Education 46 Kitchen: Trending

31 Family Activities Calendar

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 14 And the Winner Is... 16 Help Your Student Thrive 18 Resources to Get Ready for Class 24 Education Planner 26 After-School Planner 44 Saving for College facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

Happy. Healthy. Loved. These are the dreams we have for our children.

So we cherish the moments when little giggles fill the room, imaginations take us on great adventures, and when it seems our hearts could burst with pride and love.

Here and now, we’d stop time if we could. Because when kids are being kids, we all feel better.

Let’s get every child covered.

If your child needs health insurance, Fidelis Care is just a call, click, or visit away.

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

HHHHH Fidelis Care is a top-rated plan in the 2017 New York State Consumer’s Guide to Medicaid and Child Health Plus.

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

TTY: 711

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

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SEPTEMBER 2018 • Vol.10 • No.4

raising kids editor’s note

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling ASSISTANT EDITORS: Anja Webb, Melissa Wickes

Lots to Learn!

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT: Deborah Skolnik

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e’re finally settling into a new school year. Your kids will be learning lots of new things, but did you ever stop to think about all you’ll be learning, too? For my family, this fall is the ultimate “teachable moment”: We packed up our older daughter and dropped her off at college for the first time. Now I’m learning how to be a parent even when my child is hours away. I’m figuring out how to temper my worry for her safety and happiness with pride that I raised a kid who’s ready to face the world without me. Whether you’re dropping off your toddler at day care or nursery school, waving your big kid onto a bus, or watching him disappear through those school doors, I’m right there with you in the trenches, feeling that pang of separation—and also that joy.

If it makes you feel better, even the smallest of children get big benefits from learning lessons and interacting with their peers. Christina Vercelletto’s piece “The Benefits of Baby Classes,” on p. 40, explores the way infants and toddlers develop both socially and intellectually by being in a structured yet playful setting. And have you ever wondered what you as a parent can do to help your child succeed in school? You’ll want to read Alana Coopersmith’s story, “Help Your Young Learner Thrive” on p. 20. It explores kids’ different learning styles, and explains how to find the schools and activities that can help your unique child excel.

Of course, navigating childhood and adolescence can be a challenge for kids at times.

As children grow and change, even longstanding friendships can wane or abruptly end.

Find out how you can help your child with the transition by reading Samantha Neudorf’s thoughtful article, “From Friends to Falling Out” on p. 42. With the right guidance, kids can find closure—and even a silver lining.

And here’s a thought that will blow your mind: From the moment your child is born, it’s a good idea to be thinking about…college. Yes, even though it seems so far away, it’s wise to come up with a plan to shoulder all or part of the expenses. The estimated cost of a four-year private college 18 years from now tops $300,000! That may make you feel hopeless, but we’ll show you how to reach your goals in Barbara Russo’s story “Saving for Higher Education” on p. 44. It’s never too soon—or too late—to start saving!

Ready for a lighter lesson? Katelin Walling’s got it for you with her fun piece, “Kitchen: Trending” (p. 46). It gives the 411 on what’s hot in kitchen design and accessories. We’ll show you how to bring the heart of your home up-to-date and make it cozier than ever. (And you don’t need to do a total renovation either—even a few minor changes can do the trick.)

Lastly, don’t miss this month’s touching essay by Lindsay Smith, “A Farewell to My Foster Daughter” on p. 12. She cared for a beautiful baby girl from birth, but ultimately realized that the most loving thing she could do was give her to a family to permanently adopt. It’s a lesson that will resonate with every parent, since raising a child, for a year or straight through to adulthood, is ultimately—as I’ve learned—about letting go.

Hoping your back-to-school season is exciting and enlightening!

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan, Westchester); Karen Lo (Brooklyn); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke

ADVERTISING SALES

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

STATEN ISLAND PARENT

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

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MANAGING DIRECTOR: Amy Lazar-Pollack 516-851-7004

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

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DIRECTOR|PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz

MARKETING

MARKETING DIRECTOR: Ryan Christopher ASSISTANT MARKETING MANGER: Kristine Pulaski

Deborah Skolnik Director of Content

FINANCE

P.S. Got a personal story you’d like to share? We’d love to consider it for our Voices essay column. Send your submissions to editor@nymetroparents.com.

CONTROLLER: David Friedman CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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

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

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BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN • ROCKLAND PARENT, STATEN ISLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 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

Stony Brook Urology

For bedwetting and more.

Bedwetting and other voiding problems are embarrassing for kids and hard on parents.

But, the good news is, they’re often treatable.

The experts of Stony Brook Children’s Pediatric Voiding Improvement Program (VIP) specialize in caring for children and adolescents with bladder and bowel issues. We use treatment options that are ageappropriate and as noninvasive as possible.

We deliver all our care with the compassion your child deserves.

Conditions treated: • Bedwetting • Daytime wetting • Urinary frequency • Prolonged urine holding • Recurrent urinary tract infections • Constipation • Various other voiding issues

For an appointment, call (631) 444-6270.

Stony Brook University/SUNY is an affi rmative action, equal opportunity educator and employer. 18041535H

LongIslandParent

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ool town Christian Sch

raising kids new places, new programs

Who: Smithtown Christian School What’s New: STEM Lab, Superintendent, and Dean of Student Life The school is expanding its science curriculum with a new STEM lab for elementary school students.

In addition, the school is welcoming two staff members: Superintendent Reverend Joel Maus, M.Ed. and Dean of Student Life Robert Carrozzo.

The new STEM lab will aim to teach students about the design cycle. Students are first presented with a design, then asked to identify pitfalls, come up with potential solutions, and test their hypotheses.

An affiliate of Smithtown Gospel Tabernacle, SCS is a private Kindergarten through grade 12 institution that integrates biblical teaching with a traditional academic curriculum.

Courtesy Smith

Christian School in Smithtown Opens STEM Lab

s on ha A strong emphasi . apart from others

nds-on service lea

rning sets Smithtow

n Christian Schoo

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Berkshire Farm

Who: Berkshire Farm What’s New: A Day in the Park BBQ and “How to talk so kids will listen, how to listen so kids will talk” training.

This month Berkshire Farm will be host “A Day in the Park,’ a barbecue to celebrate foster care youth and parents. In October, the agency will offer new foster parent training to help parents talk to their kids.

Training on how to locate and register low-fee and free summer camp was offered in April and the information is readily available to all foster parents at any time. The training can help parents find camps that spark the foster child’s interest. Some foster children have attended music camps, police academies, sports camps, and dance camps.

Want More Info: 535 Broadhollow Rd., Suite B30, Melville; 631-420-4444; berkshirefarm.org

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Non-Profit Child Welfare Agency in Melville Offers New Training

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Berkshire Farm works to make healthy and strong children and constantly improving families by and updating trainin g when a need is exp ressed.

Friends Academy

A Quaker coeducational college preparatory school for students age 3 through 12th grade | 516-393-4244

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Friends Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities available to students at the school. Friends does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, ďŹ nancial assistance program, athletic and other school-administered programs.

LongIslandParent

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raising kids in the know

Your Child 5HasRights in School ››

By Marion M. Walsh, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

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Marion M. Walsh, Esq., Littman Krooks LLP

ederal and state laws protect the rights of students in school, yet many parents are unaware of their child’s legal protections as a student. As your child heads back to school this year, make sure you know his rights and entitlements to services.

Here are five rights your child—from kindergarten to high school—possesses in a public school:

environment free from discrimination, intimidation, harassment, and bullying in school or at school-related activities. School districts must take appropriate action to prevent bullying and harassment and cannot be deliberately indifferent. This includes off-campus harassment or bullying where there is some sort of connection to the school.

The right to be safe: Ultimately, every parent’s biggest concern is the safety of his or her child. Luckily, with certain limitations, teachers and administrators have the general duty to act as a parent when protecting their students, under the doctrine of in loco parentis. While this is not a guarantee of safety, your child has the right to supervision in school and the right to be safe from foreseeable harm.

The right to evaluations and a free appropriate public education for students with disabilities: Every student learns differently, especially those with special needs, emotional difficulties, or mental health concerns. School districts have an obligation to identify and evaluate students suspected of having a special need that may impact their learning. If a student is eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the school district must create an Individualized Education Program. An IEP must provide instruction and services designed to meet the unique needs of a child. Parents have the right to challenge IEPs or lack of services in a due process hearing. Students with special needs also have the right to receive accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. In addition, public schools may not discriminate against students with special needs, and may not deny them equal access to all programs.

The right to freedom of speech: Especially in today’s political climate, it is important to know when your school district is legally allowed to stop your child from protesting or speaking up.

This is far less often than you probably imagine. Students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate,” according to the U.S. Supreme Court. Under the First Amendment, students have the right to free speech, as long as it does not cause a substantial disruption in school or interfere with the rights of others. For example, if a student walks out in a peaceful protest of school shootings, he may not face school discipline, even if the protests deviate from school-sanctioned protests.

The right to be free from severe and pervasive bullying and harassment: Bullying can have a devastating effect on any child and it is the obligation of the school to take reasonable steps to protect students from that harm. New York State’s Dignity for All Students Act seeks to provide students with a safe and supportive

The right to a free public education, regardless of race, color, national origin, or even immigration status: Families do not have to prove their immigration status to enroll their children in school, and public schools cannot deny undocumented children the right to an education. If your child is an English-language learner, she has the right to receive English language instruction in school.

This list is not inclusive of all rights and services your child has in school. If you believe your child’s rights have been abridged, consult with an experienced attorney.

Marion M. Walsh, Esq., is a partner with the firm of Littman Krooks LLP and leads the education law practice. Walsh has worked in education law for 20 years and has been an advocate for children in many capacities.

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

things to do

long island parents day

An Afternoon of Fun & Resources

Kids participate in a variety of activities while parents meet local businesses.

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n Sunday, Sept. 16 bring the whole family to LI Parents Day at LIU Post where the kids can play while the parents browse important back-to-school resources.

Your children can hit the Kid’s Corner for activities, classes, and demonstrations, including, but not limited to: • a live reptile show with Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium • dance classes with Eglevsky Ballet • robotics with the Catholic Schools of Long Island • an intro to computer programming with The Coder School • face painting with Clowns.com • Zumba with YMCA Long Island • gymnastics to kindermusik with The Little Gym of Roslyn While your kids are having a blast, you’ll have access to more than 50 exhibitors, including after-school activities, health care and special needs providers, and the best birthday party venues on Long Island.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium will host a live reptile show at this year’s LI Parents Day.

As if that wasn’t enough fun for one day, NYMetroParents will hand out free goodie bags full of samples for each family!

LI Parents Day will be held at the Pratt Recreation Center of Long Island University at 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville from 11am-3pm on Sunday, Sept. 16. Tickets are $10 per family and cover admission for two adults and up to four children.

Want to attend for free? Visit liparentsday.com before Sept.

16, and register using the code SITE to receive a free ticket for your family.

A DON’T MISS EVENT! THURSDAY • SEPTEMBER 20 • 10 AM - 1 PM

SENIOR HEALTH &WEALTH

FREE ADMISSION

EXPO IN W AFFLE

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PRESENTED BY:

TO REGISTER VISIT SCHNEPSCOMMUNICATIONSEVENTS.COM OR EVENTBRITE.COM

• FREE Coffee • FREE Giveaways • 30+ Exhibitors • Entertainment by Russell Craig, RequestAnything.com • Performance by Paul Anthony, LI Comedy

A discussion panel of experts in Elder Law, Insurance, Home Care, Medicare, Financial Planning and much more.

Mid-Island Y JCC 45 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview, NY 11803 PLATINUM SPONSOR: SPONSORS:

LongIslandParent 11

Ashley Formica Photography

raising kids voices

A Farewell to My Foster Daughter ››

Our story didn’t end in adoption, but it still had a very happy ending. By Lindsay Smith

T

here are some moments you never forget. Those times in your life—happy, tragic, heartbreaking—that are forever seared in your memory. Vivid details, emotions…time freezes, and you know for the rest of your life, you’ll know exactly where you were in that moment.

That’s what it was like when I got the text message from the social worker. I was standing outside my car, waiting for my husband to leave work, one day away from giving birth to our third baby. At the sound of the soft ding, I looked down and read the message. “We got the order!” it said. And before I could stop myself, the tears were slipping down my cheeks. I’d wished and hoped for this moment. But standing there on that fall day, looking at that text message, all I felt was the wind being knocked from me. She’s leaving. Oh my God, she’s really leaving.

From the first day our foster daughter entered our lives—two days old, right from the hospital—I knew this moment was coming. It had always been expected that she would be adopted.

We’re foster parents, this is what we do: take in children for a short period of time, love them well, give them a safe and secure home, and then send them home. We’d been doing it for years at this point; we knew the drill.

But we’d never had a newborn. Never raised a baby right from the beginning. I hadn’t gotten up in the middle of the night to feed a newborn, to rock a baby to sleep since my own babies. I hadn’t known the thrill of a first smile, first giggle, hadn’t felt the weight of a sleeping baby in seven years. It wasn’t hard to fall in love; it didn’t take long to wonder if we could adopt her.

I feel like we hear a lot of those stories, the ones where the foster family adopts a child. Or adoption stories in general. And we hear them so often for good reason—they’re good stories. Redemptive and hopeful, they remind us of what’s good in the world.

That wasn’t our story, though. We talked about it; I thought about it often, but it never felt as though it was the best decision for us. A few months into her placement, we found out we were

Lindsay Smith and her family

(unexpectedly) pregnant with our third child. That news certainly contributed to our decision, but at the core of it was the sense that adoption wasn’t to be our story.

I struggled with it. I loved her so much; we all did. Saying goodbye to her was the hardest thing I have ever done, and I wondered if we had done the right thing. Would she understand why we didn’t adopt her? Had we inadvertently made her life more difficult by choosing not to adopt her and asking her to transition to another family? Would I ever stop missing her? It was so hard to believe something that hurt this much was the best thing for everyone involved.

And then I met her family. I could see it when they saw her for the first time—this was one of their moments. I knew watching them that they would never forget the first time they laid eyes on their baby girl. It was such a privilege to witness the coming together of this family, to see this girl who I raised and loved so much be so adored by this couple. I saw them fall in love with her the way that we had; I watched how she fit with them, and I knew we made the right decision. This was her family. These were her people. This was their story, and we helped to make it happen.

When we started fostering, I expected the most incredible feeling would be adopting a child who had come into your home.

It didn’t take too long for me to realize the real gift in fostering is having a small part in bringing families together—in opening your heart and home for children and families who need it, and even breaking your own heart and saying goodbye.

Sometimes, I still wonder what our family would have looked like if we’d been able to adopt her. But then I get a text from her mama and it has a picture or a video, and she tells me of new words and silly faces, and I know. I know she is happy. I know her family loves her. I know she will grow up feeling safe and secure.

And I know we were so blessed to have been a part of it, to lay a foundation, to bridge the gap until she went to her forever family.

That was our story, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Lindsay Smith believes that stories might just change the world. Her writing tackles issues around feminism, social justice, and parenting, and sometimes the intersection of all three.

Learn more about her work and writing at lvsmithauthor.wordpress.com.

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

things to do

diy corner

Squeezy Bottle Rocket

Now that summer is coming to an end, it’s time for the kids to put their thinking caps back on. And what better way to kick off the back-toschool season than by making a science craft? Get down to learning business by making this bottle rocket from Emma Vanstone’s “This is Rocket Science” to learn about trajectory!

Trajectory is the path an object follows as it flies through the air.

Imagine the path a ball takes when you throw it. If you throw the ball straight upward, its trajectory is different than if you throw it forward toward someone else.

Rockets initially fly vertically upward through the lower, denser parts of the atmosphere but then turn so they are on the correct path to enter orbit around the Earth.

This means their overall trajectory is a curved path, rather than the vertical path you might expect.

This easy-to-construct rocket is great for investigating how the angle a rocket is launched from affects its flight. The rockets work because as you squeeze the bottle, air is forced out of the straw in the bottle and pushes against the rocket straw. This force causes the rocket straw to fly through the air.

Materials Empty water bottles with a sports cap Scissors 2 straws, 1 wide enough fit over the other

Modeling clay Cardstock or paper Felt tip pens Tape

Directions To make the bottle part of the rocket, it’s really important to make sure the sports cap is completely airtight. If air can escape, your rocket won’t fly very far.

Cut the thinner straw into quarters and put one segment into the center of the sports cap. Seal the straw around the cap using modeling clay. You can check if the seal is complete by squeezing the bottle: If the seal is secure, all of the air from the bottle should come out of the straw, not the bottle neck. This is your rocket launcher!

To make the rocket part, first cut the wider straw into quarters and seal one end with tape; this is to stop air from escaping.

Draw a rocket shape with felt tip pens on the cardstock or paper.

Remember, the lighter the rocket, the farther it will fly.

Attach the paper rocket onto one side of the rocket straw using tape and place it onto the straw in the rocket launcher.

Squeeze the rocket launcher hard, and you should find that the rocket shoots up into the air. Try launching at different angles to see how you can make the rocket fly farther.

Reprinted from This is Rocket Science by Emma Vanstone with permission from Page Street Publishing Co. Photography by Charlotte Dart.

GOT DIAPERS? Has your child been successfully potty-trained and now you have diapers you don’t need?

Has your child outgrown certain sizes and now you have some leftover?

Donate them! #DiaperNeed is severe...

September 24-30, 2018 is #DiaperNeedAwarenessWeek Allied Physicians Group divisions collect packages of clean diapers (both unopened and opened) to be distributed by the Allied Foundation Diaper Bank Drop them off, call us at 631.386.4185, or email kgg@alliedfoundation.org to schedule a pick-up!

Looking for a service project for your pre-teen/teen? #DiaperDrives are a fantastic way to bring attention to this ongoing crisis.

Hosting an upcoming party?

Consider asking friends to bring diapers and wipes for families in need.

Looking for a charitable corporate project?

Join other generous employees who have spearheaded #DiaperDrives...

There is a dire need for diapers by families in New York State.

We appreciate your generosity.

alliedfoundation.org dfoundation.org e riv D r e iap t y #D a Da s t ren a P I #L LongIslandParent 13

Cute Stuff

Alert!

Meet the winners and finalists of the 2018 NYMetroParents Cover Contest!

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Daniela ››

GRAND PRI

ZE

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Age: 3 Hometown: Manhattan Jaden loves to play Fortnite.

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WINNERS

Jaden

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Age: 14 Hometown: Suffolk Daniela’s role model is her mom because of everything she does for her and her family.

Daniela

Age: 14 Hometown: Suffolk County Daniela’s role model is her mom because of everything she does for her and her family.

e knew it wasn’t going to be easy to pick finalists in our annual contest. But it was 1,300 times harder than we even imagined— that’s how many adorable entries poured in from every corner of the New York metro area! Once we were done oohing and aahing and narrowed it down, we invited the finalists to a glam photo shoot at Big Apple Portraits in Manhattan (unfortunately one finalist couldn’t make it). It was pouring that day, but inside it was pure sunshine, thanks to the kids’ radiant smiles and way-cool outfits (thank you, Lands’ End!) Everybody rocked the runway, but in the end it was 3-year-old Jaden from Manhattan and 14-year-old Daniela from Suffolk County who won the grand prizes. Jaden and his family will celebrate the big win with a two-day stay at Woodloch Pines Resort, while Daniela will take her modeling skills to the next level with a scholarship to Barbizon Modeling and Acting Studio. Scarlett, our Fan Favorite from Queens, received a family pack of tickets to Sesame Place.

Want to see more of these beautiful faces? We don’t blame you.

Stay tuned—many if not all of our finalists and winners will appear on our future covers—and Sophia is featured this month!

›› Dillon

Age: 11 Hometown: Westchester County Dillon’s favorite subject in school is English. He says he’s pretty good at it and he finds it interesting.

Chazz ››

Age: 12 wn: Hometo n tta Manha ve any ha ld u o zc If Chaz would r owe it superp ability to be the hift. shape s

›› Aaliyah

Age: 4 Hometow n: Rockland County Aaliyah’s favorite th ing to do for fu n is to play upsta irs all by herself .

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›› Brielle

Age: 12 Hometown: Rockland County t in Brielle’s favorite subjec s say She th. school is ma ause bec and it— at d goo ’s she her Dad is a math teacher.

Promotional Partners:

Scarlett

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LongIslandParent 15

Help Your Young Learner Thrive ›› Just as your child is one-of-a-kind, her learning style is unique, too. Here’s how to help her succeed regardless of how she processes information. By Alana Coopersmith

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icture this: There’s a classroom full of students singing songs about plant cycles. In the next classroom, students are planting their own bean sprouts to observe the plant cycle in action. In still another classroom, students are creating diagrams to see plant structures and systems. While the children are learning in different ways in each of these scenarios, they’re all learning the same science curriculum.

In an ideal world, all schools would be set up in a similar manner or all teachers would incorporate each teaching method in their classrooms because just as each child has a unique personality, likes, and dislikes, each child has a unique learning style. But what is a learning style exactly? It refers to a person’s preference for how she learns, processes, and retains information—“how [people] make sense of the world around them,” says Jeff Wu, representative for The Tutorverse, a tutoring company that supplements classroom learning.

There are eight commonly identified learning styles: • Visual-Spatial learners do well with visual aids such as pictures, diagrams, colors, and mind maps.

• Auditory-Rhythmic learners retain information by using melodies, rhythms, sounds, and recordings.

• Kinesthetic-Tactile learners need hands-on learning opportunities, including building, drawing, and role-play.

• Verbal-Linguistic learners crave words, reading aloud, writing, speaking, and creating mnemonic devices.

• Logical-Mathematic learners prefer to learn by using logic, reasoning, and systems to explain and understand concepts.

• Social-Interpersonal learners thrive by relating to and working with others.

• Solitary-Intrapersonal learners prefer study and work alone.

• Naturalist learners thrive by experiencing nature.

16 September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Learning styles are on a spectrum and are not mutually exclusive; there are countless style combinations. And numerous variables influence your child’s learning style, including internal factors such as personality and interests, and external factors such as how he interacts with other people and how he perceives the world. No matter what your child’s learning style is, though, there are ways to help her thrive, both in and out of the classroom.

Determine Her Learning Style

Parents have an innate sense of how their child learns just by observing and knowing him, says Mariaemma Willis, M.S., education specialist, author, and co-founder of Learning Success Institute, an educational consulting service that offers services catered to personal learning styles. Ever since your child was a baby, she has been hinting at how her brain best processes and retains information. Did he grow up building with Legos? He might learn best by doing, not seeing or hearing. Did she start making to-do lists before she even had anything to do? She may learn best by writing down and seeing information.

In addition to your observations, there are plenty of resources available to further your understanding of how your child learns. Assessments like Willis’s Self-Portrait Power Traits Online Assessment will pinpoint your child’s learning strengths and preferences. Even simply Googling “learning style assessment” will result in millions of helpful resources.

Find the Right School

Alina Adams, author of Getting Into NYC Kindergarten and Getting Into NYC High-School and a columnist for NewYorkSchoolTalk.org, emphasizes the significance of making sure your child’s school is the best one for his learning needs. “Schools exist for nearly every sort of learner, but the challenge is finding this school,” she explains. For parents whose

children are struggling in the classroom, Adams recommends first figuring out the problem. Is your daughter constantly reprimanded because she can’t stay in her seat? Look for a school that allows students to move around during the day. Is your son frustrated because schoolwork is simply being explained? There are schools that allow kids to learn by doing.

The most positive effect of choosing the right school for your child is she won’t get turned off to learning, Adams says. “We’re happiest when we’re learning and applying what we’ve learned towards a goal. A school that reinforces a child’s passion for learning by fitting how they best learn is a school that will set them up well for the rest of their life” she says. “Deciding you hate learning at the start of your life is as devastating as deciding you hate drinking, eating, or breathing.”

Seek Outside Help

A major issue for students of all learning styles and abilities tends to be that a teacher instructs a class of 27-32 kids, on average, in one way, at one pace. This may be fine for some students, but for many others it may not be the right style or speed. “There are only three to five students in every class that have the magic formula that traditional classrooms are set up for…the rest are shortchanged,” Willis says.

Because of this, Wu advises parents seek out a tutor for their child, which will reinforce what he learned in school. Oftentimes too, the tutor will translate your child’s work in a way he can best understand it. To pick the right outside help for your child, Wu suggests two pre-emptive steps. First, understand what your personal goal is for your child, what your child’s goal is for herself, and what she is struggling with. Second, look at the education professionals’ experience and reputation.

There are two standard goals for your child when working with an outside educator, Wu explains. The first is to build his confidence and get him to recognize he can do it! The second is to achieve an improvement in your child’s results. The benefit of working with a tutor 1-on-1 is “they can really hone in on the strengths of your child and figure out new ways to explain things to really help your child,” Wu says.

Support Your Child at Home

There are steps you can take at home to help build and reinforce positive learning habits for your child. Wu, Willis, and Adams all agree that the best way to help is to engage her using the following techniques: Create and encourage real-life learning experiences. Visit one of the numerous museums in the New York metro area and explore and talk about the exhibits, or go on a hike and talk about the native species you pass. The opportunities to create real-life learning are endless.

Ask him questions. Find out his likes and interests. Doing this creates the perfect opportunity to customize real-life learning to his interests.

Model good educational behaviors. David Norment, an educator for 22 years and father of three, stresses the importance of not only spending positive quality time with your children, but also being an educational role model. “If you want them to read, read in front of them. If you want them to prioritize current affairs, watch the news with them,” he suggests.

Establish guidelines and an environment for homework. Eliminate distractions, whatever they may be for your child, and create an environment in which she can best work. Some kids study best in short bursts with music in the background, while others prefer to get it all done in one sitting with nothing else going on in the room. Wu emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations for your child as well as creating a system that includes a schedule. To figure out which environment and schedule works best for your child, ask. If the system doesn’t work on the first try, make small tweaks until you find the right fit.

Alana Coopersmith was a summer 2018 editorial intern for NYMetroParents.

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What rights do students have?

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LongIslandParent 17

Back-to-School Affinity Health Plan

866-247-5678 affinityplan.org Affinity is an independent, nonprofit organization driven by the mission to help its members, their families, and their communities lead healthier lives.

Over the past 32 years, Affinity has built one of the area’s largest physician networks, which includes 40,000 providers and 85 hospitals. Affinity offers a variety of programs under Medicare, Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Enriched Health on the New York State of Health Marketplace for members in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island, as well as Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange counties.

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, stand-alone pediatric practices simply cannot offer.

Our doctors have more time for what matters most: you and your child!

Alternatives For Children

1116 Main Road, Aquebogue 631-722-2170 600 S. Service Road, Dix Hills 631-271-0777 14 Research Way, East Setauket 631-331-6400 168 Hill St., Southampton 631-283-3272 alternatives4children.org Providing quality, affordable daycare and special education services since 1988. Creating a natural learning environment fostering each child’s development. Early intervention and preschool special education evaluation site and provider. Preschool special education, integrated classes, daycare classes taught by NYS special education early childhood teachers, and certified daycare staff promoting a child’s development through individualized instruction that will support her for the rest of her life. 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.

Berkshire Farm Center and Services For Youth 535 Broad Hollow Road, Suite B30, Melville

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631-420-4444 berkshirefarm.org Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth trains and supports foster parents throughout New York State.

Each year Berkshire helps hundreds of children find safety and comfort in the homes of foster parents, but hundreds more are waiting for good foster homes. If you have love and patience, plus an extra bedroom, becoming a foster parent may be for you. Give us a call and allow us to answer your questions and provide you with free, no-obligation information. Become a foster parent and give the gift of family!

BounceU Farmingdale

101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com 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 all young children. We offer parent and child groups, nursery and preschool classes, and childcare 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 therapy, psychological services, and diagnostic services to infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. We develop skills that enable all our children to attain their highest potential while building self-esteem and independent learning.

Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

Multiple locations 516-678-5800 licatholicelementaryschools.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

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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.

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

250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216, Manhattan 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com; ac@amcohenlaw.com Andrew Cohen’s vast professional and personal experience has led him to become an author and frequent lecturer on special needs planning. In order to legally protect loved ones with disabilities, a comprehensive estate plan must consider the following: eligibility for government benefits, a supplemental needs trust, guardianship proceedings, and the letter of intent. The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high quality service at a reasonable cost.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org info@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.

Countryside Montessori School

354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 cmsgn.com; info@cmsgn.com Countryside Montessori School was founded in 1998. We were founded with the aim of providing a high quality early childhood education based on the philosophy, methods, and techniques developed 100 years ago by educational pioneer and Nobel prize nominee Dr. Maria Montessori. Our children become responsible for their own learning and their own behavior. They learn to respect themselves and others. Everything in our school is designed to encourage and aid the child’s natural curiosity.

Cummings Family Dental

42 High St., Huntington 631-425-1650 cummingsfamilydentistry.com cummingsfamilydentistry@aol.com At Cummings Family Dentistry, we

believe that a dentist and patient are a team. We spend time listening to understand your concerns and respond with the best treatment options for you. We follow up to make sure that pain is relieved, problems are resolved, and your health improves.

Patients are informed about dental problems and treatments, because informed patients make better decisions about their health and well-being.

Our practice offers the personal commitment you look for from a dentist.

There’s a story behind every smile... we’d like to be part of yours!

Dr. Steve Imber, Psychoeducational Consultants

Serving Nassau and Suffolk Counties as well as the five boroughs of NYC 61-43 186th St., Fresh Meadows 516-273-1961 Sprout Building 166 Valley St., Providence, RI 401-421-4004 dr-imber.com; scimber1@aol.com Dr. Imber has more than 40 years of experience consulting, evaluating, and advocating for children, adolescents, and adults with various disabilities including autism (e.g. Asperger’s syndrome), attention deficit disorders, intellectual disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, and learning disabilities. Dr. Imber is a professor of special education and a special education expert. He addresses needs of students in public, private, and charter schools. Services are available to parents, students, pediatricians, and attorneys. A confidential, complimentary phone consultation is available upon request (Nassau and Suffolk counties and the five boroughs of NYC).

Eye Level Suffolk

myeyelevel.com Many parents today are facing educational challenges and looking for answers to help their children succeed academically. Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic advancement, Eye Level is the answer. Eye Level offers math and English programs for ages 3-14. Our instructors tailor a curriculum by understanding the learning abilities of the student. With ongoing guidance, each student will set attainable goals and learn at a comfortable pace. With each success, the student grows more self-confident, self-motivated, and self-directed in the quest for knowledge.

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-kindergarten through sixth grade) is a gem! Small class sizes, dynamic teachers, natural and technological resources, attention to social and emotional learning, and a supportive community come together to help continued on page 20 ››

Call (631) 815-5355 To Book Your Party Today!

Private Party Rooms

Game Arcade • Rides • Inflatables • Laser Tag and More!

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• 229 Broadhollow Rd, Rd, RTE RTE 110, Farmingdale

Holy Angels Regional School Give Your Children the advantage that lasts a lifetime!

Open Registration Schedule a family tour or a student shadowing day!

• • • • •

Early Childhood Programs Pre-K thru Eighth Grade Extra-Curricular Activities Before & After Care N.Y.S. Regents Courses for Algebra I and Earth Science

Contact Us:

631-475-0422 1 Division Street Patchogue, NY 11772 holyangelsregional.org LongIslandParent 19

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all students grow and thrive. Located outside Ocean Beach, all transportation occurs by bus, including after-school programs. All students participate in musical groups, daily PE, Spanish, technology instruction, art, and library classes. Call for a bus pickup to visit our vibrant and unique school.

Friends Academy

270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley 516-676-0393 fa.org A Quaker school, Friends Academy is firmly committed to the testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, service, and stewardship. These testimonies, which have guided the school for 140 years, are evident in every corner of the campus: in classrooms and offices, on fields and stages, in gymnasiums and art studios. Our superior academic program and our commitment to an exciting learning environment are among many of the reasons we are one of the most sought after independent schools on Long Island.

The Gateway Performing Arts Center of Suffolk County The Gateway School for the Performing Arts

215 S. Country Road, Bellport 631-286-1133, 631-286-0555 x5000 thegateway.org Gateway School for the Performing Arts’ fall session offers a 13- or 14-week program for students of all ages and levels, with exciting new classes to complement popular acting techniques and improvisation classes for youth, teen, and adult acting students. Let’s Pretend and Theatre Games courses for youngsters are back and going strong, as well as All the World’s a Stage courses for youth and adult students with specific learning needs. Back by popular demand, we are offering even more production-style classes for both elementary, middle, and high school students!

Holy Angels Regional School

1 Division St., Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org mconnell@holyangelsregional.org Since 1923, Holy Angels Regional School has illuminated hearts and minds of students through academic excellence and the values of Catholic faith. Our mission is to provide each student the opportunity to grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically in a safe and caring environment. 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 Ballet Academy @ HCPA 310 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-4626 huntingtonballet.com huntingtoncenter@yahoo.com The school follows the American Ballet

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Theatre® National Training Curriculum and is divided by levels of study based upon proficiency. study of ballet, conditioning, and character dance, begins at age 4 1/2. In addition to ballet, pointe, modern, and classical variations are offered for ages 11 and older. The curriculum provides a safe, nurturing environment in which to master this challenging, beautiful art form. Students are encouraged to audition for productions produced by LI Ballet Theatre which is also in residence at Huntington Center.

Huntington Center for Performing Arts

310 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-4626 huntingtoncenteronline.com huntingtoncenter@yahoo.com HCPA musical theater classes, for ages 6-12, offers training needed to participate in a musical theater production.

The objective is to build confidence and discipline in each child. Acting: We will develop skills in delivering lines in character as well as reacting to dialogue within a scene. In addition, improvisation will be practiced. Singing: Explore music from current musical theater productions, child-friendly classics as well as pop and rock tunes.

The use of proper breathing and related vocalization exercises will be incorporated as well as sight-singing, note reading, and harmonizing.

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 1928 B 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 South 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 the premier tutoring and test prep provider for kindergarten-12th grade. Founded in 1977, its mission is to give every student the best education possible.

The company prides itself on personalized attention and proven results with individualized programs taught by certified teachers at accredited centers.

Areas of instruction include phonics, reading, writing, vocabulary, math, science, ACT, SAT, PSAT, high school entrance exams, and state and other standardized exams. To learn more and locate a center near you, visit huntingtonhelps.com.

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Joffrey Ballet School

434 Sixth Ave., 5th Floor 888-438-3808 joffreyballetschool.com The Joffrey Ballet School offers classes in musical theater, hip-hop, jazz, contemporary ballet, and more.

We specialize in dancers ranging in age from 2-18. We also offer superb adult evening dance fitness classes.

The musical theater classes for kids are instructed by actual Broadway stars. Come and experience our more than 60 years of excellence in dance training. You will love the way we care for your child’s dance training.

Come and grow with us.

Lice Tamers, Inc.

900 Walt Whitman Road, Suite LL2, Melville 631-479-2595 licetamers.com; licetamers@gmail.com Head lice infestations can be traumatic for families. At Lice Tamers our goal is to make the experience of having lice as stress-free as possible. Owned and operated by a medical professional, Lice Tamers offers same-day lice treatment and head checks at our comfortable, child-friendly treatment center or in the comfort of your home. All of our products are safe and non-toxic. We are dedicated to dispelling the myths surrounding head lice and offer free presentations to schools and camps.

Call us today to learn more!

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, director LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 liu.edu/giftedyouth The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the recognition of society’s special responsibilities for children with demonstrably superior intellectual ability. The LIU Center for Gifted Youth brings together two important elements of education for the gifted: extraordinary teachers recruited from leading schools in the metropolitan area, and university-level facilities. These 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 Suffolk: 631-689-6858, Nassau: 516216-1791, Queens: 718-640-6767 lispeech.com Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, owns and operates Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. With her group of therapists, she supports families 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. Seven affiliated offices across Long Island participate with most health insurance and offer evening and Saturday hours.

Long Island Studio of Music

718-809-7116, 646-387-6501 lismlessons@gmail.com Offering quality music lessons on all instruments and voice in the privacy, comfort, and convenience of your home. Serving students of all ages across Long Island in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Award-winning, professional, caring faculty foster love, appreciation, and enjoyment of music through music education. Fully insured and background-checked for your peace of mind. Experts in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) preparation with outstanding results.

Recitals offered in a state-of-the-art performance hall at Adelphi University.

Through music instruction and performance, students develop skills, build confidence, find passion, creativity, and a deeper enjoyment of music.

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-making 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 playbased, developmentally appropriate musical environment. Some centers offer classes for the big kids, too!

Founded in 1987, Music Together is a research-based program. Each family receives a CD or download set and songbook so you can continue the fun at home. Find a location near you in Queens or on Long Island: musictogetherli-queens.com.

Nastics A Total Gymnastics Experience

921-1 Lincoln Ave., Holbrook 631-567-0066 nasticsnextgen.com Now in our 38th year, Nastics offers classes in pre-school, recreational, and competitive gymnastics. Nothing is more important than your child’s self-confidence and safety as we provide a positive, fun environment.

Watch your child’s confidence grow as they work through challenges and experience the wonderful sport of gymnastics. Teaching and improving coordination, strength, flexibility, power, listening and social skills, self-esteem, self-improvement, and confidence are foundational aspects of our classes. We instill in each gymnast the belief that with the proper effort and focus, she can accomplish her goals and dreams!

Not Just Art

183 South St., Oyster Bay 516-922-8300 notjustart.com; create@notjustart.com More than ever, children need continued on page 22 ››

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Fall& Spring

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Register today to be a part of our amazing Nutcracker Performance - Available to all age groups!

Use code: JOFFREYDANCE and save $50.00 www.joffreyballetschool.com | 434 Ave. of the Americas, 3rd Fl, NY NY 10011 LongIslandParent 21

‹‹ continued from page 20 places to wonder, discover, play, create, experience joy, and express their ideas! Engaging natural curiosity and imagination is the heart of our Music Together®, art, and science programs.

Inclusive hands-on activities emphasize the learning process over product and performance. Staffed with experienced teachers, classes are developmentally appropriate and thoughtfully designed to nurture children and their families at each age and stage!

Infants, toddlers, pre-kindergarten, elementary, flexible classes, camps, and workshops. Music Together ® locations in Nassau and Suffolk.

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

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-ofthe-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly, walk-ins welcome, most insurance plans accepted.

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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.

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.

Smithtown Christian School

1 Higbie Drive, Smithtown 631-265-3334 learnwithscs.org Smithtown Christian School was founded in 1978. Its student body is comprised of more than 400 students from pre-school-12th grade, and draws from numerous churches and more than 40 school districts. The mission of Smithtown Christian School is to teach with excellence in the classroom and through life-onlife influence to produce exceptional young Christian leaders with a heart for God, a mind for truth, and a passion to change the world. The curriculum at SCS is designed to prepare students for college and exceeds NYS requirements for graduation.

SoLuna Studio

in SAT preparations, study skills, and Catholic High School entrance exams.

St. Patrick’s Youth Sports Programs promote our values, set goals, and help build lifelong friendships. Offering team sport programs for boys and girls ages 4-16. Our sports programs include: Deck Hockey, Soccer, Basketball, Girls Softball, Boys Baseball, and Intramural Basketball.

Studio E Art Classes

565 Route 25A, Miller Place 631-744-4001 studioeartclass.com Studio E is now registering for fall classes! View classes online at studioeartclass.com or call 631-744-4001.

Studio E offers weekly ceramics and mixed media classes for ages 5-8. We also offer two preschool aged classes called Art Start and Toddler-and-Me. Teen and tween students will love our huge variety of illustration, painting, drawing, and pottery and ceramics classes. All classes are taught by a NYS-certified art teacher.

Suzuki Music School at Huntington Center for Performing Arts

310 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-4626 huntingtoncenteronline.com HCPA uses the Japanese method of violin instruction. A weekly, 45-minute group class is the key to the success of this method of learning. In the group students socialize, develop their listening skills, and have fun while they learn. There are two solo concerts, and an end-of-year performance. Additionally, the student has a weekly private lesson with parent and teacher. HCPA also offers traditional piano, string, and voice lessons. Huntington Suzuki Music Program runs 32 weeks. Suzuki Program for violin age 3 and older, piano for age 6 and older.

Sylvan Learning Centers of Mineola and Huntington

659 Old Willets Path, Hauppauge 631-761-6602 solunastudiony.com solunastudiony@gmail.com SoLuna Studio is currently enrolling for our fall semester! Students ages 8-10 and 11 and older will be working on productions of Annie Jr! Musical theater and acting classes for students ages 5-10 available as well. Located at 659 Old Willets Path in Hauppauge, SoLuna Studio NY is a non-profit community theater which offers acting, dance, and musical theater classes and productions all year long! For more information, visit our website at solunastudiony.com or contact us at 631-7616602 or solunastudiony@gmail.com.

393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 516-743-9943 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-424-5600 sylvanlearning.com sylvanlearning@optonline.net Sylvan’s Personalized Tutoring programs in reading, writing, mathematics, SAT and ACT Prep will improve your child’s skills and confidence. We use a state-of-the-art assessment, personal learning plans, and certified teachers to ensure the high level of quality instruction and support that Sylvan prides itself on. Plus, our sessions are available in the afternoons, evenings, and on Saturdays, so that you can pick what works best with your busy schedule.

St. Patrick Youth Community

The Learning Experience – Mount Sinai

St. Patrick Church, Smithtown 631-360-0185 stpatsyouth.com spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick’s Youth Enrichment Center offers a kindergarten readiness program, and before- and after-school and care for children. Our center is a secure environment where children can learn and grow for children ages 2-12. Tutoring is offered for students

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

620 Route 25A, Mount Sinai 631-476-8700 thelearningexperience.com The Learning Experience of Mount Sinai is a children’s development center that offers top notch education and childcare to children from 6 weeks to age 8. We offer before- and after-care for school-age children. The school is open from 6:30am-6:30pm year-round.

We offer an onsite chef, competitive tuition rates, dynamic and fun curric-

ulum, Fun With Phonics early reading program, enrichment programs, a Make Believe Boulevard pretend play room with a ball pit, oversized playground, infant care with sanitary systems, exciting summer camp program with vendor visits, and learning through play.

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 talented, creative, award-winning staff that 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 will be having 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! Celebrating 25 years!

Village East Gifted - Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted® (VEG) is open seven days a week offering a highly rigorous, academic enrichment program for gifted and talented students ages 2-16. VEG prepares its students, at a very young age for the SAT, ACT, early college admissions, and accelerated degree programs. Curriculum includes vocabulary enrichment, etymology, Latin, writing and grammar, global studies, math, geography, study skills, STEAM, medical science, and creative problem solving. VEG offers highly-rigorous CORE (all subjects) and instructional writing classes. VEG Preschool, pre-K, and kindergarten implement a 100 percent academic curriculum designed for young accelerated learners ages 2-5.

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (962254) Locations: Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue ymcali.org; 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-of-theart fitness centers, group exercise classes, pristine pools, youth and teen programs, cultural arts programs, family activities, preschool, before and after-school programs, and summer day camp for children ages 3-15 with all interests!

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AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE Save 20% off your first months tuition when you enroll in a Sylvan Reading, Writing or Math program

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E T T H I S Y E A R ’ S B E S T B A C K - T O - S C H O O L S U P P LY Save 20% off your first GET THISGYEAR’S BEST BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLY months tuition when

NYMetroParents Forget those new jeans and superhero lunchboxes. Confidence is the best school supply you can give your kids to set them up for school success.

you enroll in a Sylvan

Reading, Writing or So start this yearsuperhero strong with a personal learning plan from Confidence Sylvan that includes: is the Forget those new jeans and lunchboxes. best school supply Math program.

• Our proven approach that blends amazing teachers with SylvanSync™ Offer valid at Sylvan of technology on the iPad® for learning experience. you can give your kids to set them upa truly forengaging school success.

Huntington and Mineola • A wide range of tutoring programs including back-to-school camps, study skills only. Expires 10/31/18. and homework help. a personal learning plan from Sylvan So start this year strong with that includes: • Programs to fit your family’s busy back-to-school schedule – and budget.

• Our proven approach amazing teachers with SylvanSyncTM technology on Don’t waitthat until it’sblends too late. Start now. the iPad® for a truly engaging experience.

G E T T H I S Y E A R ’ S B E S T B A C K - T O - S C H O O L S U P P LY Save 20% off your first • A wide range of tutoring programs including back-to-school camps, study skills tuition and months when 516-743-9943 631-424-5600 Forget those new jeans and superhero lunchboxes.

Confidence is the best school supply you can give your kids to set them up for school success. you enroll in a Sylvan homework help.

Reading, Writing or So start this year strong with a personal learning plan from Sylvan that includes: Math program.

•• Our proven approach thatfamily’s blends amazing with SylvanSync™ Programs to fit your busy teachers back-to-school schedule ~ and budget.

Offer valid at Sylvan of technology on the iPad® for a truly engaging learning experience.

from start!

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

Sylvan of Mineola 393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501

Sylvan of Huntington 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington, NY 11743

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SYLVANLEARNING.COM A wide range of tutoring programs including back-to-school camps, study skills and homework help.

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Programs to fit your family’s busy back-to-school schedule – and budget.

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393 Jericho Tpke, Mineola

516-743-9943 516-743-9943

Sylvan of Mineola 393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501

1160 E. Jericho Tpke, Huntington

631-424-5600 516-743-9943

Sylvan of Huntington 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington, NY 11743

iPad is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc. which does not sponsor Sylvan Services. iPad is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc, which does not sponsor Sylvan services.

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

Nurturing NYMetroParents Creativity ®

Get advance notice on activities, ® music together •discussions art • science participate in group classes • vacation camps • studio days • parties and receive special notices. play groups • homeschoolers • scouts Music Together® locations in Babylon, Bellmore, Garden City, Huntington, Manhassett, Massapequa, Oyster Bay, Plainview, Sea Cliff

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EXCEPTIONAL MUSIC INSTRUCTION IN YOUR HOME www.LongIslandStudioOfMusic.com

Join

The Long Island Studio of Music fosters the love, appreciation and enjoyment of music. Through music instruction and performance, students develop skills, build confidence, find passion and Get advance notice on activities, creativity, and acquire a deeper enjoyment of music.

NYMetroParents

participate in group discussions andinstruction receive special notices.

Private music in the comfort of your

home for Piano, Voice, Guitar, Violin, Viola, Cello, Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Trumpet, Oboe, Trumpet, www.facebook.com/nymetroparents Saxophone, Drums and more.

Recital opportunities throughout the year.

• We accept students of all ages and levels — child to adult • Serving all communities throughout Long Island • Study with Superior Faculty • Award-winning, highly-trained, experienced, caring faculty teaching ALL instruments • Fully insured and backgroundchecked for your peace of mind • Expert NYSSMA prep with outstanding results Jennifer Barsamian • Spring recitals in a state-of-the-art Co-founder performance hall at Adelphi University.

• College audition prep We also offer individual instruction and group classes in: • Music Theory • Music Composition • Sight-singing and more • Early Childhood Group Classes

Jennifer Grimaldi-Toohey Co-founder

Enhance your child’s music education beyond their academic school environment!

Call us today to schedule your first lesson at 646.387.6501 or 718.809.7116 or email us at LISMLessons@gmail.com LongIslandParent 23

Education Planner Schools

Type

Academic Enrichment

Huntington Learning Centers

Parochial Schools

huntingtonhelps.com

Visit website

Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

licatholicelementaryschools.org

516-678-5800

Holy Angels Regional School

holyangelsregional.org

631-475-2641

learnwithscs.org

631-265-3334

bbdps.com

631-499-1237

cmsgn.com

631-476-8700

thelearningexperience.com

718-852-1029

villageeastgifted.com

631-549-2313

ymcali.org

855-2YMCALI (962254)

fa.org

516-676-0393

Smithtown Christian School

Nursery & Preschools

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool

Countryside Montessori School

The Learning Experience Mount Sinai Village East Gifted Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner Kindergarten and Preschool YMCA of Long Island Private Schools

Friends Academy

Public Schools

Fire Island School District

fi.k12.ny.us

631-583-5626

Special Education

Alternatives For Children

alternatives4children.org

Visit website

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool

bbdps.com

631-499-1237

huntingtonhelps.com

Visit website

sylvanlearning.com

631-424-5600

Huntington Learning Centers Sylvan Learning Centers of Mineola and Huntington 24

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH

FALL 2018 AND SPRING 2019 SATURDAY PROGRAM Oct 6th – Dec 15th, 2018 & Feb 2nd – April 27th, 2019 for students entering K in Sept. 2018

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 38th annual fall and spring program for gifted children. The fall

program runs on Saturdays from Oct. 6th to Dec. 15th, 2018 and the spring program runs on Saturdays from Feb. 2nd to April 27th, 2019.

The program is open to gifted children entering grades K-8 in September 2018. The program expands

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

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

Follow us on Twitter

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

ST. JAMES Fall Registration: Sept. 8th | 9am-1pm

556 North Country Road, St. James 631-584-6888

JAZZ + HIP HOP + BALLET + TAP + LYRICAL CHARACTER + ACRO + OPEN/CONTEMPORARY JUMPS & TURNS TECHNIQUE + INTRO TO DANCE COMBO + TINY DANCER + ACRO/HIP HOP BREAK DANCE + BOYS HIP HOP + SPECIAL NEEDS

Call, walk-in or visit our website for on-line registration: www.tjedance.com First Day of Fall Classes: Wednesday, September 12th

310 Main Street, Holbrook 631-585-6900

$10 OFF Registration Fee Expires 9/30/2018

$5 COMBO

For SEPTEMBER! + Registration Fee Expires 9/30/2018 LongIslandParent 25

After-School Planner Classes & Programs

Activity Academic Enrichment

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

cshfishhatchery.org

516-692-6768

myeyelevel.com

Visit Website

Huntington Learning Centers

huntingtonhelps.com

Visit Website

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

liu.edu/giftedyouth

516-299-2160

St. Patrick Youth Community

stpatsyouth.com

631-360-0185

Sylvan Learning Centers of Mineola and Huntington

sylvanlearning.com

631-424-5600

Village East Gifted Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

villageeastgifted.com

631-549-2313

Eye Level Suffolk

YMCA of Long Island Art

Key to My Art, Inc.

Not Just Art Picasso Kidz, Creative Art Studio For Children Studio E Art Classes Dance

Huntington Ballet Academy @ HCPA Joffrey Ballet School Ohman School of Ballet New York Dance Theatre TJE Dance Force

Gymnastics

26

Nastics A Total Gymnastics Experience

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

ymcali.org

855-2YMCALI (962254)

keytomyart.com/ nymetroparents.html

631-608-9048

notjustart.com

516-922-8300

picassokidz.com

631-261-5500

studioeartclass.com

631-744-4001

huntingtonballet.com

631-271-4626

joffreyballetschool.com

888-438-3808

ohmanballet.org

631-462-6266

tjedance.com

631 585 6900

nasticsnextgen.com

631-567-0066

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

Gymnastics at FREE Trial Class Available

TADPOLES 2’s & 3’s • LEAPFROGS 3 to 5 Years • GRADE SCHOOL 6+ Years

OPEN REGISTRATION ATION GOING ON NOW! A LARGEST BAR / BAT MITZVAH PLANNING EVENT

Weekly Classes: • Fall Session begins Monday 9/10 • Gymnastics classes available for all ages & abilities • USA & USAIGC Teams • Visit our website or call for the Fall schedule

Birthday Parties: • All Inclusive or Super Saver Packages available

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21ST MELVILLE | 12-4PM Melville Marriott 1350 Walt Whitman Road

Register Today for a FREE TICKET at celebrateshowcase.com (Save $10) If you want to exhibit, call Sheri 516-445-2394

Mıtzvah Market Your Source For Ideas And Inspiration

DJs • Photographers Favors Games • Invitations Judaica • Venues • Transportation Videographers • Coaches • Caterers Entertainers • Magicians Photo Booths • Wearables • Kippahs

Session I $15 OFF Fall (new students only)

nasticsnextgen.com • 631-567-0066 921-1 Lincoln Ave • Holbrook

(Between Vets & Sunrise. Just North of Church St.)

Ohman School Of Ballet founded in 1979

Classical Cl la lass ssic ical Ballet Instruction in the tra raddiitio ion of George Balanchine tradition

Frank F Fr rank O ra Ohman hman School of Ballet Train With A Master (Former Soloist NYC Ballet)

• Home School Of New York Dance Theatre • Year-round Enrollment • Age 3 thru Professional Levels • Mommy & Me • Presents Long Island’s Largest “Nutcracker” at Hofstra

631-462-6266 www.ohmanballet.org 60 Calvert Avenue, Commack, NY, 11725

LongIslandParent 27

After-School Planner Classes & Programs

Activity Music

Long Island Studio of Music

Music Together

718-809-7116

musictogetherli-queens.com

Visit Website

notjustart.com

516-922-8300

huntingtoncenteronline. com/category/music

631-271-4626

stpatsyouth.com

631-360-0185

Not Just Art Suzuki Music School at Huntington Center for Performing Arts Sports

St. Patrick Youth Community

YMCA of Long Island STEM

Theater

ymcali.org

855-2YMCALI (962254)

Sylvan Learning Centers of Mineola and Huntington

sylvanlearning.com

631-424-5600

Village East Gifted Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

villageeastgifted.com

631-549-2313

thegateway.org

631-286-1133

huntingtoncenteronline. com/category/theater

631-271-4626

solunastudiony.com

631-761-6602

The Gateway School for the Performing Arts Huntington Center for Performing Arts SoLuna Studio

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

MAKE THIS THE BEST SCHOOL YEAR EVER! SAVE $100*

READING AND PHONICS • WRITING • MATH STUDY SKILLS • ADHD SUPPORT • MORE

1.800.CAN.LEARN

OUR CONVENIENT LOCATIONS INCLUDE:

ON YOUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL CHECKUP

www.HuntingtonHelps.com

TUTORING

OUR STUDENTS TYPICALLY

INCREASE 2+ GRADE LEVELS IN 3 MONTHS**

BAY SHORE • EAST NORTHPORT PATCHOGUE • SMITHTOWN

©2018 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. *Offer valid for Academic Evaluation, new students only. Not valid with any other offer. **Grade level results are based on cumulative average grade level increases in reading and math for 17,445 students from 2010-2014 using the full set of available student data. Individual results may vary, and are not guaranteed.

HLC3597.2SFK

28

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

Where Every Child is an Artist ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES EDUCATIONAL, ENGAGING, UNIQUE & FUN!

Art Classes • One-Day Workshops Holiday workshops • Birthday Parties Teen Paint Parties • Adult Paint Nights NYS Certified Teachers

631-261-5500 • www.picassokidz.com Join us for SoLuna Studio NY’s

Fall F all Music Theater Pr Production oduction Enroll Before Sept Sept. 8 for a DISCOUNTED Rate!

Enriching brilliant minds every day… in every way.

Academic Enrichment in All Subj bjject Are reas Classes Offere red 7 Day ayys a We a W ek

•

•

Ages 2-16

Nassau & Suffolk L Lo ocat ations

631-549-2313 • www.VillageEastGifted.com

Begins September 23rd!

Ages 8-10: Saturdays till Dec. 2nd Ages 11+: Thursdays & Sundays till Dec. 9th Ask About Our Classes For Kids Ages 5+!

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

Bringing NYC Arts Training Experience to Long Island

“Training for Life” Huntington Ballet Academy ENROLL NOW for Fall Classes Age 4 thru Professional Levels

Dreams Start Here

CALL

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

• Before & After Care • Mommy & Me • Separation Program • Kindergarten Readiness Program • Enrichment Programs • Tutoring K-12th Grade • SAT Preparations • Study Skills • Catholic HS Entrance Exams Prep

American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum 631-271-4626 www.HuntingtonBallet.com LongIslandParent 29

things to do

city bound

N Y C

Kids get in on the aquatic action all day long.

Fun for All on the Water

Loup-William Théberge

Wild about water? Hudson River Park’s SUBMERGE festival heads north this year to Pier 84 in Midtown to celebrate NYC’s coastal waters while bringing marine science to life. Environmentally minded families will enjoy hands-on activities, kid-approved science entertainment, kayaking, fishing, and more. This annual event is a must-do for anyone who appreciates the many gifts of the river and wants to help raise awareness. Rain date is Sept. 23. Saturday, Sept. 22, 11am-4pm. Age: All. Free. Pier 84, West 44th Street, Midtown. hudsonriverpark.org.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to this troupe’s anatomical acrobatics!

It’s a Circus Machine!

If your family likes physical performance, they’ll flip for Machine de Cirque at the New Victory Theater in Midtown this fall. Five fellows are building a contraption to communicate with the outside world, but their fun-loving natures keep distracting them! These awe-inspiring acrobats swing by their toes high above the stage, bicycle upside-down and backwards, and flip and fly off teeterboards.

Sept. 28-Oct. 7. Age: 8 and older. $17 and up. The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown. newvictory.org.

Courtesy Fraunces Tavern Museum

W he hile y re ou , v ’r isit e …

The Long Room, where George Washington gathered with his officers in 1783 to bid them farewell at the end of the American Revolution.

Fraunces Tavern Museum

Learn about the history of the American Revolutionary era through buildings, public programs, and museum collections. Exhibits include the Long Room, the site of George Washington’s farewell address at the end of the Revolution, the Clinton Room, and the upcoming Fear & Force: New York City’s Sons of Liberty, where you can view objects preserved from important moments relating to the Sons of Liberty.

Visit it: 54 Pearl St., Financial District; 212-425-1778; frauncestavernmuseum.org Can’t-miss event: Spy Week; Sept. 15-22; see website for schedule Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 30 minute LIRR and subway ride from Huntington.

NY Carousel Entertainment

Photo courtesy of Hudson River Park

Family Fun in Manhattan

The Pier 62 Carousel is conveniently located next to popular outdoor attractions such as a skate park, gardens, and special community events.

Pier 62 Carousel

What better way to enjoy beautiful summer weather in NYC than on Hudson River Park’s custom-designed Hudson River Animals carousel in Chelsea? The 36-foot carousel allows for up to 36 passengers per ride. The whole family will enjoy this relaxing ride complete with beautiful views and rich historical culture. The best part? Tickets are extremely affordable!

Visit it: Hudson River Park, between 22nd and 23rd streets, Chelsea; 718-899-2676 Can’t-miss event: Making Magic with Ethan on Sept. 16 at 2pm and 4pm Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 25 minute LIRR ride from Huntington.

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Big Truck Day (No. 4 on our list).

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

t

nyme

com/c

ents. ropar

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

EDITOR: KAREN DEMETER suffolkcal@davlermedia.com

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR

32

Editor’s Hot Tickets

37

On Screen

33

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

38

34

Showtime, Smarty Pants

Fun Fairs & Festivals, Kindness Crusaders

39

35

Mini Musicians

36

Movers & Shakers, Animal Lovers, Browse & Buy

Once Upon a Time, The Great Outdoors, Special Needs

5

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 10 events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!

1

Rosh Hashanah FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 5, 7:30-8:30pm WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: All WHAT: Learn from Rabbi Yakov Saacks about Rosh Hashanah customs and practices.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Celebrate the Jewish New Year!

WANT TO GO? 631-351-8672. thechaicenter.com.

East Northport Festival FREE

2

WHEN: Sept. 7-9, Friday-Sunday, 11am-11pm WHERE: John Walsh Park, 190 Larkfield Road, East Northport AGES: All WHAT: Activities include games, rides, live music, farmer’s market, pet parade and contest, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Great way to end the summer...on your favorite ride!

WANT TO GO? eastnorthport.com.

Yom Kippur & Sukkot FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 12, 7:30-8:30pm WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: All WHAT: Learn from Rabbi Yakov Saacks about Yom Kippur and Sukkot customs and practices and High Holiday themes.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This is a great opportunity for people of all faiths to learn about Jewish holidays!

WANT TO GO? 631-351-8672. thechaicenter.com.

3

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

4

Big Truck Day

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 15, 10am-12pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: Newborn-5 WHAT: Emergency vehicles, construction and farming machines, and more will be on site.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Visitors will get to meet some of the drivers too!

WANT TO GO? $15. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

Long Island Parents Day

5

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 16, 11am-3pm WHERE: Long Island University, Pratt Recreation Center, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: Kids play in the Kids Corner and participate in Activity Classes while parents meet birthday party venues, after-school classes and programs, special needs providers, health and wellness professionals, local museums, and day trip locations!

WHY WE LOVE IT: Use code “NYMP” for FREE tickets when registering online.

WANT TO GO? $10. 646-736-3619. liparentsday.com.

6

Seventh Annual Fiddle and Folk Festival

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 16, 11am-7pm WHERE: Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, Setauket AGES: All WHAT: In addition to a variety of folk performers, there will be animals, gardens, produce, and a giant swing.

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

nymetroparents.com/register ››

WHY WE LOVE IT: Get down at a family contra dance in the barn!

WANT TO GO? $18; $13 children and seniors. 631-689-8172. fiddleandfolk.com.

Wildwood Fall Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 10am-4pm WHERE: Wildwood State Park, 790 Hulse Landing Road, Wading River AGES: All WHAT: Activities include children’s games, wagon rides, pony rides, petting zoo, funny photos, inflatables, and a pumpkin weight raffle.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Take part in the ‘build a scarecrow’ contest!

WANT TO GO? 631-929-4314. nysparks.com.

7

World Maker Faire New York

WHEN: Sept. 22-23, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: A family fun festival to make, create, learn, invent, craft, recycle, build, think, play, and be inspired by celebrating arts, crafts, engineering, food, music, science, and technology.

WANT TO GO? Single Day Passes for Adult: advance $40, at door $50; youth and students: advance $25, at door $30; Weekend Passes Adult: advance $70, at door $80; youth and students advance $40, at door $50. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

8

9

Family Theatre Musical, ‘Pinkalicious’

WHEN: Sept. 21-30, Friday, 7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11:30am and 2pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Pinkalicious is the musical tale of a young girl with an appetite for pink cupcakes that lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe – a dream come true for her!

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a hilarious story that teaches kids the importance of obedience.

WANT TO GO? $12. 516-599-6870. plazatheatrical.com.

Traveling Exhibit -TINKERTOY: Build Your Imagination

WHEN: Sept. 29- Jan. 6, Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Visitors can explore a walk-in size replica of the canister, create their own designs, experiment with renewable energy and water filtration, and take part in a scavenger hunt.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A great way to introduce children to STEM concepts!

WANT TO GO? $13; free children younger than 1.

516-224-5800. licm.org.

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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.

Remote Controlled Fall Aero Show FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 9, 10am-5pm WHERE: Sunken Meadow State Park, 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park AGES: All WHAT: This radio-controlled model airplane show is great fun for all aircraft enthusiasts.

WANT TO GO? 631-269-4333. nysparks.org.

SNAP Counseling FREE

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 21, 10-11am WHERE: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Meet with Fatima Lasso to see if SNAP can work for you.

WANT TO GO? 631-727-3228. riverheadlibrary.org.

Baby Gear Swap FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 10am-2pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: All 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.

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

Smithsonian Museum Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 10am-5pm WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: In the spirit of the Smithsonian’s free admission policy, the Long Island Museum will offer free admission all day.

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

5th Annual Brookhaven Highway Safety Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 29, 8am-12pm WHERE: Safety Town, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville AGES: All WHAT: The day’s events include a free car seat inspection and a free bicycle safety rodeo, including a safety inspection and non-competitive skills course for kids of all ages.

WANT TO GO? 631-363-3770. brookhavenny.gov. ››

LongIslandParent 33

SMARTY PANTS Bilingual Family Gallery Talk & Art Workshop

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 2, 2pm WHERE: Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill AGES: All WHAT: Explore art in the galleries then create projects inspired by the works WANT TO GO? $12; free for children. 631-283-2118. parrishart.org.

Bridge Building

SHOW TIME! Goat on a Boat: ‘Three Billy Goats Gruff’

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 1, 11am WHERE: Bay Street Theater, 1 Bay St., Sag Harbor AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Three Billy Goats must find a way to outwit the Troll and get across the bridge so they can enjoy the field of green grass.

WANT TO GO? $15-$25. 631-725-9500. baystreet.org.

‘Flashdance: the Musical’

WHEN: Through Sept. 15, check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: Patchogue Theater for Performing Arts, 71 E. Main St., Patchogue AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The story of 18-year-old Alex, a welder by day and “flashdancer” by night, and her dreams of becoming a professional dancer.

WANT TO GO? $59-$89. 631-207-1313. patchoguetheatre.com.

‘Saturday Night Fever’ The Musical

WHEN: Aug. 29-Sept. 2, Wednesday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Long Island Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Using a variety of materials, design and build a structure that spans a river and supports as much weight as possible!

WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. longislandexplorium.org.

Coppersmithing FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 10am-1pm WHERE: Westhampton Beach Historical Society, 101 Mill Road, Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: See of copper bowls made using only hand tools and a primitive bench.

WANT TO GO? 631-288-1139. whbhistorical.org.

Weekly Meditation Class for Kids (Dharma for Kids Class)

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 9, 11:30am-1pm WHERE: Kadampa Meditation Center Long Island, 282 New York Ave., Huntington AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Topics include dealing with conflict and frustration, learning to appreciate others, and learning how to develop happy, peaceful minds.

WANT TO GO? $3. 631-549-1000. meditationonlongisland.org.

WHEN: Sept. 12-23, check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: BayWay Arts Center, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Tony Manero is a clerk in a paint store in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, who lives for his Saturday evening visit to the local disco.

WANT TO GO? $30. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

Lego Robot House

‘The Addams Family’ A New Musical Comedy

Bubbles-n-Books Storytime FREE

WHEN: Sept. 15-Oct. 27, check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Wednesday Addams brings home her “normal” boyfriend to meet the tribe in this new adaptation of the Charles Addam’s characters.

WANT TO GO? $35; $28 children 13-18; $20 children ages 5-12; children younger than 5 not permitted. 631-928-9100. theatrethree.com.

Disney’s and Cameron Mackintosh’s ‘Mary Poppins Jr.’

WHEN: Sept. 15-Oct. 28, check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Your favorite nanny takes center stage in this adventure based on the Broadway musical and Disney film.

WANT TO GO? $15. 631-724-3700. smithtownpac.org.

WHEN: Sept. 8-9, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Come build a house for Venie, the Lego robot at the Explorium.

WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 10, 11:30am-12:15pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy stories, songs, movement, and bubble fun with your little one.

WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Trivial Trivia FREE

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 14, 6pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Test your knowledge during this trivia showdown.

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

Huntington Arts Council Presents Wearable Art FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 15, check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: Main Street Gallery, 213 Main St., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Wearable Art explores the intersection of fashion and fine art.

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

Culper Spy Day

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 15, 9am-4pm WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

AGES: All WHAT: Activities include blacksmith demonstrations, schoolroom activities with a schoolmarm, Revolutionary War encampment, and cooking demonstrations.

WANT TO GO? $25; free for children younger than 6. 631-751-0066. longislandmuseum.org.

MINI

MUSICIANS

Weather Windmill FREE

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 17, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Fun activities about different types of weather WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

CommUniversity Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 12-4pm WHERE: Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Academic Mall, Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Volunteers from Stony Brook University will share highlights of the campus through hands-on activities, fun entertainment, and more.

WANT TO GO? 631-632-9117. stonybrook.edu.

The Great Playdate FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 2-4pm WHERE: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This countywide early learning initiative offers a special day of music, crafts, stories, toys, and more.

WANT TO GO? 631-727-3228. riverheadlibrary.org.

Special Exhibit Opening Day: Heroines at the Helm

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 11am-5pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Explore the fascinating experiences of whaling wives WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children ages 4-18; free for children younger than 4. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

ABC: Learn With Me /ABC: Aprende Conmigo FREE

WHEN: Sept. 20-27, Thursdays, 10-10:45am WHERE: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Librarians will introduce children to concepts such as shapes and colors.

WANT TO GO? 631-727-3228. riverheadlibrary.org.

Fall Into Art Studio Tour

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 29, 10am-4pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: Tour more than 25 local and professional artist studios.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-288-3335. westhamptonlibrary.net.

Guided Tours

WHEN: Sept. 1-30, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, 2-3pm WHERE: Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy 1-hour tours highlighting the permanent collection.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children. 631-283-2118. parrishart.org.

6th Annual LEGO Building Block Contest & Exhibit

WHEN: Sept. 15-Oct. 14, daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Educational and Cultural Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Creations are on display everyday until prizes are awarded.

WANT TO GO? $2-$4. 631-689-5888. wmho.org. ››

Jazz on the Terrace: Hector Martignon and the Foreign Affair Quartet

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 7, 6pm WHERE: Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill AGES: All WHAT: Bring chairs and blankets to watch the sunset, enjoy café specials, and celebrate summer with exuberant live music.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children. 631-283-2118. parrishart.org.

The Canta Libre Chamber Ensemble

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport AGES: All WHAT: Listen to this ensemble of harp, flute, and three strings.

WANT TO GO? $15-$25. 631-854-5579. vanderbiltmuseum.org.

Preview the Rhythm Kids Level 1 and Level 2 classes FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 26, ages 4-5: 4:45-5:30pm; ages 5-8: 5:45-6:30pm WHERE: Music Together, 101A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This music, movement, and drumming class guides children toward developmentally appropriate music and movement activities.

WANT TO GO? 631-208-4003. lyricalchildrenmusic.com.

Preview the Mixed Age class from Music Together FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 26, 6:45-7:30pm WHERE: Music Together, 101A E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Each child participates at his or her own developmental level in singing, moving, and exploring musical instruments.

WANT TO GO? 631-208-4003. lyricalchildrenmusic.com.

Preview the Sing Shalom Mixed Age Class from Music Together FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 27, 10:45-11:30am WHERE: Chance to Dance, 140 N. Bell Mead Road, Setauket AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This program offers families a unique blend of the traditional Music Together program enriched by a collection of Jewish songs WANT TO GO? 631-208-4003. lyricalchildrenmusic.com.

Monsters of Rock: 30th Anniversary Concert

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 29, 8pm WHERE: Patchogue Theater for Performing Arts, 71 E. Main St., Patchogue AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Take a trip back to 1988 with one of the great rock tours.

Featuring Blackout (Scorpions), Damage Inc. (Metallica), and more.

WANT TO GO? $20-$35. 631-207-1313. patchoguetheatre.com.

Preview the Rhythm Kids Level 1 Class from Music Together FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 29, 9:30-10:15am WHERE: Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 269 Main Road, Aquebogue AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Rhythm Kids guides children toward developmentally appropriate music and movement activities.

WANT TO GO? 631-208-4003. LyricalChildrenMusic.com. ››

LongIslandParent 35

WHAT: Learn how to identify different crabs that live at the park.

WANT TO GO? 631-269-4333. nysparks.org.

David Rosaire and the One and Only Pekingese Dog Act

WHEN: Through Sept. 3, 12pm and 3pm WHERE: Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville AGES: All WHAT: David Rosaire and his pack of talented dogs WANT TO GO? $16.95; $14.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 631-878-6644. longislandgamefarm.com.

Reading with Tara FREE

MOVERS & SHAKERS The Long Island Ducks vs. New Britain Bees

WHEN: Sept. 4-6, Tuesday-Thursday, 6:35pm WHERE: Bethpage Ballpark, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip AGES: All WHAT: The Ducks take on the New Britain Bees.

WANT TO GO? $12-$15. 631-940-3825. liducks.com.

Open Auditions for Long Island Ballet Theatre’s 32nd Annual ‘Nutcracker’

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 10am WHERE: Huntington Center for Performing Arts, 310 New York Ave., Huntington Village AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Dancers are invited to audition for a professional ballet production to be performed on Thanksgiving weekend.

WANT TO GO? $25 tax deductible donation. 631-271-4626. huntiongtonperformingarts.com.

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 6, 4-5pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Pick your favorite book to read to this lovable dog.

WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Turtle Crossing

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 10-11:30am WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: Newborn-5 WHAT: Learn about turtles through hands on games.

WANT TO GO? 631-265-1054. parks.ny.gov.

Butterfly Safari: Family Program

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 23, 1-2:30PM WHERE: Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown AGES: All WHAT: An expedition to catch, observe, and release insects.

WANT TO GO? 631-265-1054. parks.ny.gov.

Yoga in the Park by Om Shanti Yoga and Reiki Center FREE

Tiny Tots: ‘Nature Discoveries’ Nocturnal Neighbors

Children’s Yoga

BROWSE & BUY

WHEN: Sept. 9-30, Sundays, 8:30-9:30am WHERE: The Common Ground, Rotary Park between Gillette and Candee Avenues, Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Bring a towel and yoga mat, and get ready for this class for all ages and skill.

WANT TO GO? 631-664-4230. thecommonground.com.

WHEN: Tuesday, Sept. 25, 10-11am WHERE: Connetquot River State Park, 3525 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Connect with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts.

WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. nysparks.com/parks.

WHEN: Sept. 11-Dec. 18, Wednesdays, 4:45-5:45pm WHERE: Heritage Center, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Lilie Perito teaches various workshops in yoga and mindfulness across Long Island.

WANT TO GO? $20. 631-275-6618. msheritagetrust.org.

Up-cycled Art & Craft Festival? FREE

Warrior Courses Wednesdays

Treasures and Collectables Fair FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 31, Wednesdays, 6-8pm WHERE: Sky Zone Mount Sinai, 269 Route 25A, Mount Sinai AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Run the course as many times as you like, and try to get your name on the leader board.

WANT TO GO? $20. 631-938-1420. skyzone.com.

ANIMAL LOVERS Young Naturalists Get Crabby!

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 1, 10-11:30am WHERE: Sunken Meadow State Park, 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park AGES: 3-5 36

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 1, 10am-5pm WHERE: Greenport High School, 720 Front St. (Route 25), Greenport AGES: All WHAT: Up-cycled, and re-purposed arts and crafts will be on display.

WANT TO GO? 631-477-1950. depasmarketfair.com.

WHEN: Through Sept. 15, Saturdays, 9am-4pm WHERE: Southampton Historical Museum, 17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton AGES: All WHAT: Vintage furniture, jewelry, ceramics, and more will be sold in the Red Barn and on the grounds.

WANT TO GO? 631-283-2494. southamptonhistory.org.

15th Annual Long Island Garlic Festival

WHEN: Sept. 15-16, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Garden of Eve Farm, 4558 Sound Ave., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Festival vendors feature a wide variety of garlic inspired foods, crafts, music, and organic garlic to eat and plant. Kids can enter the Jr. Garlic Iron Chef.

WANT TO GO? $5; free for children younger than 6. 631-722-8777. gardenofevefarm.com.

HeartBeet Farm Stand FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 13, Saturdays, 10am-12pm WHERE: Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: HeartBeet Farms produces fresh, organic fruits and vegetables.

WANT TO GO? 631-751-2244. stonybrookvillage.com.

Grades K-12 • Pre-school & Extended Care Raising up exceptional young Christian leaders with a Heart for God, a mind for Truth, and a passion to change the World.

Farmer’s Market FREE

WHEN: June 2- Oct. 27, Saturdays, 10am-3pm WHERE: Tanger Outlets: The Arches, 152 The Arches Circle, Deer Park AGES: All WHAT: Long Island’s local farms, wineries, and bakers and more.

WANT TO GO? 631-667-0600. tangeroutlet.com.

ON SCREEN Family Movie: ‘The Muppets’ FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 1, 1:30-3:30pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Come see The Muppets (PG, 2011) with your little ones!

WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

‘Solaris’

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 5, 7pm WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A psychologist is sent to a station orbiting a distant planet WANT TO GO? $16. 631-423-7611. cinemaartscentre.org.

Summer Thursday FREE

Academics

Program prepares students for college Exceeds NYS graduation requirements

Extra-Curricular

Award-winning Fine Arts & Music Competitive Athletic Programs Junior Bible Quiz Team

Spiritual Life

Daily Bible Classes • Weekly Chapels Spiritual Emphasis Days

Student Life

Community Outreach and Service-learning Projects Mission Team

We invite you to tour our school and see what makes SCS stand apart from the rest!

631-265-3334 • learnwithscs.org • Smithtown Celebrating Our 34th Anniversary

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 6, 6-8:30pm WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Join the museum for a sendoff to summer 2018 with a screening of Back to the Future! and plenty of popcorn.

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

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

‘Superman’ 40th Anniversary Screening

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 10pm WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Clark Kent takes a job as reporter for The Daily Planet and uses his powers as Superman to serve and protect mankind.

WANT TO GO? $7. 631-423-7611. cinemaartscentre.org.

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Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Spellbound’

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 14, 7pm WHERE: Guild Hall, 158 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 9 and older WHAT: An amnesiac man accused of murder uncovers his true identity with a psychoanalyst.

WANT TO GO? $12. 631-324-4050. guildhall.org.

Cinema for Kids: ‘The Big Bad Fox & Other Tales’

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 11am WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: In this French animated film, a fox thinks it’s a chicken, a rabbit acts like a stork, and a duck wants to replace Father Christmas.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 12. 631-423-7611. cinemaartscentre.org.

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Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: A family-friendly afternoon of seaworthy crafts and demonstrations.

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

Harbes Farm’s Annual Pumpkin Festival FREE

WHEN: Sept. 29-30, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-6pm WHERE: Harbes Family Farm, 715 Sound Ave., Mattituck AGES: All WHAT: There will be doughnut eating contests for kids 12 and younger, fall-themed fun, and games such as scarecrow dress up, relays, and more WANT TO GO? 631-298-0800. harbesfamilyfarm.com.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Harbes Orchard’s Annual Apple Festival

WHEN: Sept. 8-9, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-6pm WHERE: Harbes Family Farm, 715 Sound Ave., Mattituck AGES: All WHAT: Apple picking, a Robin Hood corn maze, pumpkin picking, and more.

WANT TO GO? $14-$18. 631-298-0800. harbesfamilyfarm.com.

St. Elizabeth Family Festival

WHEN: Sept. 7-9, Friday, 6-10:30pm; Saturday, 1-10:30pm; Sunday, 1-6pm WHERE: St. Elizabeth Church, 175 Wolf Hill Road?, Melville AGES: All WHAT: Rides, games, food, craft vendors, entertainment, and more.

WANT TO GO? 631-271-4455.

2018 Dockside Family Festival

WHEN: Sept. 8-9, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Captree State Park, 3500 Ocean Parkway, Babylon AGES: All WHAT: Live music, seafood, vendors, pony rides, crab races, and more.

WANT TO GO? $8 parking. 631-669-0449. nysparks.com.

Greek Fest 2018 FREE

WHEN: Sept. 14-16, Friday, 4-11pm; Saturday, 11am-1pm; Sunday, 12-8pm WHERE: Saint Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Shrine Church, 1 Shrine Place, Greenlawn AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy Greek food, pastries, rides, games, music, dancers, and more.

WANT TO GO? 631-261-7272. stparaskevi.org.

Family Fun Fair FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 16, 12-4pm WHERE: Fireman’s Park, 10 Dewitt Ave., Patchogue AGES: All WHAT: Parents seeking information on pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting can enjoy shopping, educational programming, and more.

WANT TO GO? 224-357-7666. birthandbeyondresources.com.

Long Island Fair

WHEN: Sept. 15-23, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage AGES: All WHAT: Culinary, craft, and horticultural exhibits, magic shows, and more.

WANT TO GO? $15; $13 seniors and children 5-12 years; free for children younger than 5. 516-572-8401. lifair.org.

SeaFaire

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 29, 11am-2pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum & Education Center, 279 Main St., 38

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Fall Into Fun Carnival!

WHEN: Sept. 27-30, Thursday, 6-10pm; Friday, 6-11pm; Saturday, 1211pm; Sunday, 12-7pm WHERE: Heritage Center, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: All WHAT: Rides for all ages, food court, and skill games for every age group.

WANT TO GO? $30. 631-509-0882. msheritagetrust.org.

White Post Farm Fall Festival

WHEN: Sept. 22-Oct. 28, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: White Post Farms, 250 Old Country Road, Melville AGES: All WHAT: Sing-along hayrides, bounce houses, entertaining shows, and more.

WANT TO GO? $24; free for children younger than 16 months.

631-351-9373. whitepostfarms.com.

KINDNESS CRUSADERS ‘I am Eleven’: The Plaza’s Annual Outdoor Film Screening

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 15, 7pm screening, parking at 6:15 WHERE: Brookhaven Farm, 279 S. Country Road, Brookhaven AGES: All WHAT: Documentary and raffles to fundraise for schools.

WANT TO GO? $20; $10 students; $5 children ages 6-12; free for children younger than 6. 631-438-0083. plazamac.org.

Paws on Parade

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 11am WHERE: Southampton Historical Museum, 17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton AGES: All WHAT: Walk to support the Southampton Animal Shelter and restoration programs at the Southampton Historical Museum.

WANT TO GO? $25. 631-283-2494. southamptonhistory.org.

Together in Teal 12th Annual 5K Run/Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 22, 8:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Belmont Lake State Park, Southern State Parkway Exit 38, North Babylon AGES: All WHAT: Funds raised support programs for earlier awareness, quality of life, community outreach, and research initiatives for ovarian cancer.

WANT TO GO? $40; $20 children ages 6-11. 631-938-2020. runwalk.ovarian.org.

AHRC Suffolk’s Annual Car Show Fundraiser

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 23, 8:30am-2:30pm WHERE: AHRC Suffolk, 2900 Veterans Memorial Highway, Bohemia AGES: All WHAT: All proceeds go to AHRC Suffolk’s programs and services.

WANT TO GO? $20 for show cars; free for spectators.

631-585-0100. ahrcsuffolk.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME

Family Program: The Search for the Perfect Shell FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 1, 1pm WHERE: Rogers Mansion, 17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton Village AGES: All WHAT: Adrienne Falzon reads her children›s and vistors make a sailor’s valentine.

WANT TO GO? 631-283-2494. southamptonhistoricalmuseum.org.

Toddler Time FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 5, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Make new friends, share a story, and take time to play.

WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

A Visit With Pete the Cat FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, Smith Haven Mall, 600 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy a costumed character visit from Pete the Cat. WANT TO GO? 631-724-0341. barnesandnoble.com.

American Girl Playdate FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 20, 4pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave.,Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Bring your doll to play with other children and their dolls.

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

My First Storytime FREE

WHEN: Sept. 5-26, Wednesdays, 11am WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 842 Sunrise Highway, Bay Shore AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Story time includes a mix of short stories and favorite songs.

WANT TO GO? 631-206-0198. barnesandnoble.com. ››

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Birds of a Feather Flock Together

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 8, 11am-3pm WHERE: Brookside County Park, 59 Brook St., Sayville AGES: All WHAT: Learn about local birds, take hikes in the nature preserve, and more.

WANT TO GO? 631-563-7716. gsbas.org.

12th Annual North Fork Foodie Tour

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 16, 10am-4pm WHERE: 20 North Fork farms, vineyards, and other artisanal food locations; see website for details AGES: All WHAT: Milk a goat, see how cheese is made, and learn about beekeeping.

WANT TO GO? $25; free for children younger than 12. 631-722-5712. northforkreformsynagogue.org.

No More Straws!

WHEN: Sept. 22-23, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Recycle, reuse, and repurpose straws into creative inventions.

WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS

Library For All FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 12, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: Adult WHAT: Library for All is designed for adults with sensory issues, on the autism spectrum, or with other specific needs. Everybody is welcome to attend.

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

Apple Pie Sensory Experience FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 13, 10:45am WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Celebrate the start of fall through this delicious, sensory program.

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

Inclusion Workshop: Art With A Partner For Children & Young Adults WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 23, 1-3pm WHERE: Art League of Long Island, 107 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Complete craft projects using a variety of mediums.

WANT TO GO? $35. 631-462-5400. artleagueli.org.

Social Skills Classes for Teens

WHEN: Sept. 6-27, Thursdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Carl’s Candies, 50 Main St., Northport AGES: 13-17 WHAT: This engaging class teaches teens how to present themselves with grace, integrity, and confidence with a strong focus on respect, proper basic manners, and communication skills.

WANT TO GO? $75. 561-889-4464. actasifetiquette.com.

Coming up next month: OCT. 21: Gleaning of the Fields at Garden of Eve Organic Farm & Market, Riverhead OCT. 28: Family Fun Day at Long Island Museum, Stony Brook OCT. 31: Halloween Festival at Stony Brook Village, Stony Brook

LongIslandParent 39

raising kids baby

Sponsored by

The Benefits of Baby Classes ›› Time spent with your baby in the company of other wee ones is more than just fun for both of you.

It’s a solid plan for bolstering your child’s burgeoning social skills. By Christina Vercelletto

T

he first time my son had any real interaction with a fellow child, he was maybe 4 months old. It was right before the Thanksgiving turkey was served. The son of a family friend, scarcely a month older than he and held on an adjacent lap, clutched my bambino’s calf. He turned, smiled, and promptly blew a raspberry. The two of them proceeded to coo at each other with hands flapping and gums smacking until the pumpkin pie came out. I then realized it was time to get my little one out of our house more regularly.

Part of the reason I signed the two of us up for our first class— Babies Boogie at the West Islip library—was my interest in…okay, desperation for…conversing with grown-ups and feeling like a human being once in a while. And there isn’t any shame in that game.

“Mothers tend to flock to these programs because of the opportunity to interact and socialize with other mothers who are at a similar stage of life. An upbeat outlook and positive mood in mothers transfers to their babies and is overall a wonderful benefit for all,” says Karen Hopkins, M.D., a developmental-behavioral pediatrician at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone in Manhattan.

But aside from the perks for you, these types of classes actually can play an important part in your little one’s healthy development.

Read on for a rundown for all the ways it can help her grow.

A Tiny Caterpillar Becomes a Social Butterfly

According to Jasmin Terrany, LMHC, a Manhattan psychotherapist and author of Extraordinary Mommy: A Loving Guide to Mastering Life’s Most Important Job, infant interaction builds both social skills 40

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

and budding confidence. Of course, your child’s first playmate is you.

All that talking, beaming, and singing you do throughout the day become the first building blocks of your newborn’s socialization.

At around 3 or 4 months, your little guy is ready to spread his wings in larger groups outside of your home. “Many new parents get accustomed to shutting out the world in order to bond with their new babies,” says Mandi Silverman, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist at Manhattan’s Child Mind Institute. But attending classes with other babies and unfamiliar adults, can help get an infant comfortable with the outside world, Dr. Silverman says. Social learning—when babies are motivated to try new skills because they see others using them—can take hold.

Mom of two Melly Shotter, an office manager on Long Island, was pleasantly surprised by her 5-month-old son’s reaction to his first music class. “Practically from the start of the very first session, he started giggling and seemed so alert and interested in everything...It was a wake-up call that I’m not the only one who needed a social life!” Shotter laughs.

Big Payoffs; Plenty of Options

Parent and baby classes come in many variations, from massage, music, and swimming to movement—even yoga! These classes often welcome participants as young as 3 months. But before you register, you might wonder: Can babies this little really pick up any social skills to speak of in these play date-classroom hybrids?

The short answer from child development experts? Yep. “The benefits are vast,” Dr. Silverman insists. “It’s never too early for parents to expose their babies to the world in small, developmen-

tally appropriate ways. Mom-baby classes are a perfect way to do so, which is why there are so many options to choose from.”

A study published in Developmental Science compared babies and parents who took part in music classes with parent-baby pairs who just listened to the same music while doing other things. The babies in the participatory classes were more musically aware and had finer-tuned gestures and increased social skills after the classes ended. “The benefits of Mommy- or Daddy-and-Me classes on a child’s development cannot be overstated,” agrees Katie Davis, M.D., a developmental psychologist at Park Avenue Pediatric Neuropsychology in Manhattan.

Although your baby won’t be communicating with her tiny classmates verbally, “repeated exposure to other children in a safe, supported setting can help build social skills and confidence,” Dr. Hopkins notes. And that repeated part is important. “If you are doing the class so that they will learn a specific skill, then frequency and consistency would be the key,” Terrany agrees. Indeed, Darci Falcone of Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, shares how sticking to the baby signing class her daughter took made it a success. She was dubious at first, though. “I was ready to stop after a few sessions, but at the encouragement of a friend who attended with us, we kept going regularly,” Falcone recalls.

Given the range of options to choose from, it’s simple enough to try out a few classes and see which type your baby seems to enjoy most.

Love and Learning for the Long Term

That fun class you take with baby right now can also have far-reaching positive effects. A study in Early Child Development and Care discovered that compared to a control group, moms who attended music and movement classes were more adept at responding to their infants and using a more variable pitch when speaking to their child. That could give a baby a head start on language skills. Plus experts agree group baby classes can represent an early opportunity to develop social and behavioral skills that are crucial for academic readiness down the road.

Keep in mind, though, that you shouldn’t let your best of intentions get in the way of keeping your baby’s age and developmental stage top of mind. “As in any setting a mother or caregiver is in with a baby, it is important to understand your baby’s cues, to know when a situation that started out as fun may not continue to be positive or pleasurable, and to not force the interaction this time, so that the next time he or she will be ready,” Dr. Hopkins urges.

The most important gift you can give your child, in a group class or any other setting for that matter, is being fully present. While it’s wonderful to make friends, Terrany cautions against letting the babies in a class entertain each other, so to speak, while the parents just chat away and check their phones the whole time. The No. 1 benefit of most baby classes is the undistracted, quality time we are giving our children. “With babies, who can’t demand our attention the same way older kids do, it can be so easy to get distracted, so setting aside this time to connect with our children can be beneficial,” Terrany says.

Just take it slow, following your baby’s lead. Then as you learn and grow together, you’ll be enjoying classes side by side for years to come.

Christina Vercelletto is a former editor at NYMetroParents, Parenting, Scholastic Parent & Child, and Woman’s Day.

From our sponsors: The mission of Allied Foundation is to impact and improve the health and well-being of residents within Allied Physicians Group’s geographical footprint, which currently includes Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk), Queens, Brooklyn, Richmond, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange. The Allied Foundation funds community-based strategies and initiatives, including Breastfeeding Support (toll-free Support Line: 866-621-2769; Breast Milk Depots), Community Education (free app—AlliedPG—and lectures about such topics as ADHD, managing food allergies, behavioral health, and infant CPR), Early Childhood Literacy (proud partner of Reach Out and Read and The BookFairies); and Community Service (Diaper Bank of Long Island). For more information, visit alliedfoundation.org.

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LongIslandParent 41

raising kids teen

From Friends to Falling Out

How teens can cope with friendship breakups

››

By Samantha Neudorf

A

t the end of my freshman year in high school, two friends I thought I was close with stopped talking to me for no reason.

They decided not to invite me to one of their birthday parties and when I asked why I was excluded, their response was one of them “just did not want to be friends with you anymore.”

Navigating friendships as a teenager can be tricky. This is the age when kids are trying to figure out who they are, meeting new people, getting involved in different activities, and going through physical and emotional changes. Kids who have been friends since childhood may drift away from each other because they no longer have anything in common.

Though friend breakups are common in the teen years, they can be devastating—after all, friends can act as a strong support system. It’s important to remember not all friendships may last, but going through a rough patch can help kids learn how to build better relationships with others. Here are some ways to help your teen learn how to resolve problems, be a better friend, and know when to move on from a bad friendship.

“We really look at a situation and ask both parties to take responsibility for whatever occurred, whether that was a miscommunication or any action that was not a positive one,” Wilson says. “Then we look at both of their parts to see if they’re willing to apologize to each other and come to some kind of a meeting of the minds.”

If the problems lie beyond a counselor’s realm of expertise, parents may choose to send their teen to a behavioral psychologist to try to help her with any deeper issues within herself. “A lot of times it’s just helping [teens] navigate their own self-esteem and identity formation to develop healthy relationships around them,” says Adam S. Weissman, Ph.D., a clinical-behavioral psychologist and the founder and director of The Child & Family Institute, a cognitive-behavioral therapy center with locations in Westchester, Manhattan, and Brooklyn. “Sometimes if they really are trying to maintain a friendship or develop a new friendship, there’s definitely some social skills and tips for overcoming social anxiety or worry about what that person thinks of them,” Dr. Weissman says.

Suggest a Sit-Down

Encourage Equal Friendships

If a teen is having issues with a friend at school and needs to seek advice from someone, a guidance counselor’s role is to be a mediator. A counselor can set up separate or group meetings with the students involved, depending on how comfortable they are being in a room together. Jeanmarie Wilson has been a high school guidance counselor for more than 20 years at Smithtown High School West in Suffolk County and recommends having all parties communicate to work through the issue they are trying to resolve.

42 September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Oftentimes teens may put themselves in situations in which the people they call friends are using them, or they are not being their authentic selves in order to gain popularity and please others. Explain to your teen that if the dynamic feels as though he’s giving more than he’s getting, it’s a sign the friendship is unbalanced. “A friendship is a product of how [teens] choose to engage with their social environment, and that’s usually a reflection on how they feel about themselves,” Dr. Weissman says.

The key to any relationship, whether it’s platonic or romantic, is to have two-way communication and for both parties to feel there is reciprocity. Let your teen know that if she’s unhappy in a situation, conveying her feelings to the other person lets them know she cares enough to be open and honest in communicating, and that she respects herself enough to say she is upset. Then she also needs to be a good listener and understand where the other person is coming from. “Give thought in what you say to people, how you say it, and respect others for who they are—you can’t expect them to be perfect all of the time,” Wilson says.

Help Your Teen Limit His Social Media Exposure

Social media nowadays can really mess with a teenager’s head. He can find himself overanalyzing subtext that may or may not be in captions and Instagram stories, fretting over not receiving enough likes and comments on a post, or feeling FOMO (fear of missing out) when friends are hanging out without him. Social media can create unnecessary drama, so it’s best to avoid spending too much time on apps and have more face-to-face conversations. “It’s really important not to use social media as a form for expressing things that are really sensitive topics,” Wilson says. “I would advise communicating to the person directly and not posting your feelings or texting anything that needs to be said in person to avoid miscommunication.”

Teenagers may feel pressure to look or live like “influencers” on the Internet, which can lead to feeling inadequate or unhappy.

Remind your child social media is curated and the best way to feel better is to log off once in a while (this advice can apply to adults too). Apps such as Moment or Checky can monitor how many times she checks her phone to make her more aware of reducing screen time. “Spending hours on social media becomes more depressing over time and you start feeling guilty of the things you’re not doing,” Dr. Weissman says. “If you’re that kid who’s going on there and self-esteem is an issue for you, you’re going to use that as your barometer to find how people value you.”

Put a Friendship’s End in Perspective

Though it is ideal to resolve an issue among friends and continue the friendship, sometimes after laying all of the problems and feelings out on the table, the friendship cannot go back to what it was and does not work out. Not everyone will remain your teen’s friend, but every friendship or brief encounter can help him understand what types of qualities he values in a friend moving forward.

Encourage your child not to view a friendship breakup as a failure, but rather as an opportunity to grow and continue to learn how to be a better friend. Once she lets the not-so-great-people out of her life, she can make room for better ones to create more meaningful friendships. “Some kids are going through the motions and figuring out who they are and trying to be popular, and sometimes those kids have a hard time being a good friend,” Dr. Weissman says. “Having open and real conversations about what’s going on for each other can be an important sense of support and can make a real valuable friendship that can last beyond high school, but it takes a certain level of maturity for that to happen and I think some kids are not there yet.”

As high school progressed beyond my freshman year, those two friends who excluded me ended up drifting apart themselves, and finding new groups to hang out with. Teens who say they’ve found their BFFL (best friends for life) may not always end up staying friends for life, and that’s okay. Friends come and go throughout high school to make room for better ones down the road.

Samantha Neudorf is a former editor at NYMetroParents. She currently resides in Astoria, Queens with her cat and holds a journalism degree from Hofstra University.

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LongIslandParent 43

family life finances

Saving for Higher Education

››

College is costly, but more often than not, necessary for your child’s success in life. Here’s how to start saving for higher education so you get the most for your dollar without breaking the bank. By Barbara Russo

A

new baby in the house is certainly something to celebrate. This wonderful addition to the family also brings with it some heavy responsibilities for parents for many years to come. Sleep cycles change, babysitters need to be found, and soon enough it’s time for baby to start day care and preschool. Expenses will accompany every milestone a child hits. One of the most costly ones is college.

When you have a newborn or toddler, college seems a world away. But time flies, so it’s never too early to start saving for higher education. “Parents should begin to plan for their children’s education as soon as they are born,” says Nancy Curtin, CFP, CLTC. Another reason to save: Admission costs are likely to increase as the years go by. Today, the average four-year cost for a public university is $101,000 and $167,000 for a private university. In 18 years, the projected average cost for a public college is $184,000 and $303,000 for private, according to Curtin.

With such exorbitant expenses, how exactly should you begin to save? What are some steps to take to ensure college will be paid for?

Diversify Your Savings

“There are several ways to save, and the best way to go may be to put your college savings in several places,” says Sharon Epperson, CNBC senior personal finance correspondent and host of Retire Well, a digital video series designed to help viewers of all ages manage their money. “Diversify where you save in terms of the type of accounts that you choose and what you invest in.”

44

September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Some of these options include 529 plans, Roth IRAs, and highyield savings accounts. The 529 is one of the most common ways parents start saving for college. It is specifically designed for higher education expenses.

“You put after-tax money into this account, your earnings are not taxed, and you can withdraw the money tax-free to pay for college.

Many states will give you a state tax deduction for your contributions,” Epperson says. “Plus, this year there’s an extra perk. Under the new federal tax laws, up to ten thousand dollars a year of your 529 plan money can be used to pay for private school tuition for kindergarten through twelfth grade. Your money in the 529 can be invested in a range of assets based on your child’s age and when they will be going to college.”

Parents who have multiple children may think they need to open a separate 529 plan for each child, but that’s not necessarily the case. Plus, it can be overwhelming for some parents to manage. Epperson suggests parents contribute as much as they can to a 529 plan for their first child.

If they wind up not needing all of the money, they can change the beneficiary of the account to another child without any penalties.

Encourage Good Grades

The 529 plan is a great foundation, but once he starts school, it’s important to start focusing on his academic success, too.

“The reality is that grades and test scores weigh heavily in the scholarship and financial aid process for college,” says Anne Huntington, vice president of Huntington Learning Center. “One way

that parents can save for their children’s college education is by investing in their academic and skills progress early.”

Huntington cites how students who attend the learning center achieved higher grades and ultimately received an impressive amount in scholarship funding. “Our individualized test prep programs’ results are tremendous and show that after only three months of tutoring, students on average achieved a 5.2 point increases on the ACT and 238 point increase on the SAT,” she says. “In addition to the point increases, on average, our seniors in the tri-state area last year [each] received over $50,000 in scholarship offers.”

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As your child grows, there are other ways to keep the savings going. For example, when arranging birthday parties or other special events, consider asking guests to contribute to your child’s 529 rather than giving a physical gift.

“It may not win best gift on the day of the birthday party, but it sure will come in handy down the road,” says Pete Wylie, vice president of Student Lending at CommonBond, a financial service that refinances graduate and undergraduate loans. There are even websites that allow people to register online to send gifts to 529 accounts, including Ugift529.com, GiftofCollege.com, and LEAF College Savings (leafsavings.com).

Woodhull School focuses on creating a nurturing learning environment inclusive of:

Remember It’s Never Too Late

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

As important as it is to start saving early, it’s never too late. It might also give you a better idea of what type of education you’re saving for, and whether your child is likely to attend community college, a private institution, or another type of school. If your child knows what kind of career path she wants to take, that can also be helpful in figuring out which school to attend. The most expensive school doesn’t always mean the best education.

“The first step to do is to get some kind of idea as to what college education we’re talking about,” says Douglas Boneparth, a certified financial planner and author of The Millennial Money Fix. “Once you have time and value, there’s any number of college education calculators online. I do this typically during financial planning. You can search to solve for how much you need to save each month, each year to actually achieve that goal.”

There are some other factors to keep in mind within these calculations as you work to fund your child’s education goals, Boneparth adds.

“There [are] a lot of assumptions in there—the return on the money you’re investing, the inflation rate of college education and tuition. But if you’ve quantified it by time and value and have used the calculator and have solved for what it’s going to take every month, you’ll have something here that you can use. You can take that information and plug it into your budget.”

Make Your Kids Part of the Process

One last tip from the experts is to get your kids involved in college planning early. Talk about school with them, and get them to start saving once they have a job and start earning money.

“Encourage each child to open a Roth IRA when they start earning money. You want to get them in the habit of saving a portion, at least twenty percent, of what they earn,” Epperson says. “Saving more early on will encourage them to keep saving, even if it’s a little less, later. Also, each child can have their own high yield savings account. When you start teaching them to manage their own money, show them the benefits of saving in their own account. Talking about saving can provide some great teachable moments.”

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Barbara Russo is a freelance writer who holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the City University of New York. She enjoys playing guitar, following current events, and hanging out with her pet rabbits.

LongIslandParent 45

Courtesy Debra Funt

Courtesy Jennifer Morris

Courtesy Jennifer Morris

family life home

This kitchen in the Bronx, designed by Jennifer Morris, perfectly displays the color trend in cabinets.

Brooklyn-based designer Jennifer Morris added a pop of color in this Fort Greene kitchen with a yellow sink.

Debra Funt, a Scarsdale-based interior designer, incorporated metal barstools, pendant lights, and more in an all-white kitchen.

Kitchen: Trending

››

Interior designers share the five big design fads happening in kitchens right now.

M

ore and more, the kitchen is becoming the heart of the home—just look at home design shows, including Nate & Jeremiah by Design and Fixer Upper, for inspiration. “It’s not only the central hub for a family,” says Debra Funt, founder and president of Debra Funt Interiors in Scarsdale, “it looks like it’s integrated into your living space.”

So just how do you achieve that integration in your kitchen? Here are five big trends you can incorporate now to give the new heart of the home a cozy feel, whether you’re a homeowner and can make drastic changes, or you’re a renter who can, at most, paint.

Pops of Color

While soft neutrals that create a serene space are still popular in the kitchen, Jennifer Morris, principal at Brooklyn-based JMorris Design, says more people are being adventurous with color accents including navy and cobalt blues, jewel tones, and bright yellow. And these colors are being incorporated in numerous ways. If you’re feeling daring, paint the walls (or just an accent wall) or cabinetry a bold color. “It also can just be one half of the cabinetry instead of feeling like you’re investing in the expression of a full kitchen,” Morris says.

“I’ve seen it in just the lower cabinets where you’re seeing a dark, rich color and then the upper cabinets are a little bit safer.”

If you decide to paint your cabinets, “for durability reasons as well as aesthetic, the high-gloss trend for cabinets is not going away anytime soon, but we are also seeing a lot more satin finishes, 46

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By Katelin Walling

which is a great option if you want an overall more matte look,” says Nivara Xaykao, Benjamin Moore color and design expert.

“Also be sure to consider the light in the kitchen, as this will impact how the color will look on walls and cabinets.”

Another color trend in kitchens is pale and milky colors (think matte too), according to Xaykao. And appliance brands are following suit with matte finishes, including De’Longhi’s Dedica DeLuxe Espresso Maker and Lattissima One, which come in matte white, and Café, A Matte Collection of appliances that come in matte white and matte black.

If you just want to dip your toe in adding color to your kitchen, go for colorful accessories, such as hand towels, area carpets, soap containers, curtains, and décor items.

Metal Accents

“People are into a more modern aesthetic. Right now I’m seeing a lot of industrial happening,” Funt says. “In the city, people tend to be open to a lot of metal accents right now when I’m doing a kitchen renovation.”

If you have barstools at an island or counter, swap out your old ones for some trendy metal ones, change the knobs and pulls on cabinets for metallic options, replace the outdated lighting fixture for one that looks industrial, update your faucet for a trendier style, or upgrade some old countertop appliances to ones with metallic finishes.

Café, A Matte Collection is on-trend in this aspect, too. After choosing matte black or matte white, you can “update and

personalize with these accessories in the form of hardware and knobs,” says Maggie Bellinger, CMF, senior designer with Café, A Matte Collection. That hardware is offered in four finishes in line with the metallic trend: brushed copper, bronze, black, or stainless.

Want to add metallic accents but not sure what finish to choose?

“Warmer gold tones are looking particularly fresh at the moment,” Xaykao says.

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Fun Backsplashes

If you want to add color but adding accessories isn’t enough color for you (and painting is too much), Morris suggests updating the backsplash because it’s “very low risk.” It’s also a fun way to incorporate metal accents in the kitchen, with metallic inlays or tiles as part of the design. “It is something that can be removed or replaced in a relatively inexpensive way for the labor and materials. …It’s usually in the smallest area, but it’s something you see so much,” she says.

If you want the wow-factor without a lot of color, try one large piece of frosted glass or sandblasted mirror (bonus: They’re both easy to clean with Windex!). And if monochromatic is more your style, install single-color tiles in an unexpected pattern (think herringbone).

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Living Room Décor in the Kitchen

“A lot of times we think of it as a sterile environment, but we’re starting to see framed artwork and paintings and photography…in the kitchen. I find that pretty fascinating where it’s almost a second living space,” Bellinger agrees. “So people want their pieces in the kitchen to actually look like the rest of their home.” Incorporate items in your kitchen that you would typically put in a living room, such as vases, candlesticks, artwork, and sofas or loveseats at the breakfast table, to give your kitchen a lived-in feel.

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As with other facets of our lives, technology is slowly creeping into kitchen design and trends. “I think generally a lot of people are looking at their home system as something they can maintain the control of from an environmental point of view, such as power saving, and in the kitchen there’s room for all of those things,” Morris says.

The easiest thing you can do to incorporate the energy-saving tech trend is to replace your old light bulbs with LED ones. They use 2025 percent of the energy and last 15-25 times longer than traditional incandescent light bulbs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

In terms of kitchen appliances, they’ve been “making huge leaps and bounds,” Morris says. Samsung’s Family Hub refrigerator, for example, is Energy Star-certified and has a touchscreen, which allows you to take photos of the inside of your fridge to see what you have and what you need when you’re not home, create grocery lists you can share instantly to any connected smartphone, write memos and sync family calendars, and even keep you entertained in the kitchen with streaming music and TV mirroring. And brands such as LG, GE, and Bosch offer smart ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, and more that can all be controlled and monitored from brand-specific apps on a smartphone.

If you’re ready to tackle some of bigger design changes mentioned above, start “paying attention to other friends’ homes,” Morris advises. Ask questions about how certain materials have worked out for them, how they like their smart appliances, and whether they have any recommendations for contractors or handymen. And do your research: how are smart appliances rated and do they come with warranties, what is the best value for you, is one material easier to care for and more durable than another? Once you figure out your needs, “the trends should be the icing on your cake,” Morris says.

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CELEBRATIONS IN THE KITCHEN 63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen.com celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com The most unique, fun-filled, joyous event! We have created a true baking experience for everyone to enjoy, including sugar cookie baking, all about pizza, cupcakes from scratch, doughnuts, chocolate, and candy projects.

Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties.

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

GREAT STRIDES LONG ISLAND 41 Coram-Swezeytown Road, Middle Island 631-786-9708 greatstridesli.org julie@greatstridesli.org Lasso some birthday fun at Great Strides Long Island.

We offer a relaxed picnic atmosphere (indoor facility available), farm animals, and a horse ride all for a reasonable price. Email julie@greatstridesli.org for more information.

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

HUNTINGTON CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS 310 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-4626 huntingtoncenteronline.com huntingtoncenter@yahoo.com Make your child’s birthday a memorable and creative event with our dance-themed birthday parties. As a special treat, a guest artist will come in costume to perform for your guests!

INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Manhattan 646-381-5010 intrepidmuseum.org groupsales@intrepidmuseum.org Celebrate your child’s birthday with a one-of-a-kind party!

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

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

LIPSTICK & LOLLIPOPS 176-2 N. Country Road, Mount Sinai 631-828-4403 lipstickandlollipops.com; landlpartiesinc@gmail.com From chocolate milk facials to tea and princess parties, Lipstick & Lollipops has it all! Our parties are a one-of-akind, 2-hour private celebration.

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

LONG ISLAND SCIENCE CENTER 21 N. Country Road, Rocky Point 631-208-8000 sciencecenterli.org; office@sciencecenterli.org Give your future coder, game scientist, robotics engineer, and designer an “edutainment” experience that they will never forget with one of our specially customized STEM Birthday Parties.

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) mygym.com/huntingtonstation My Gym parties include exclusive use of the gym,

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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.

NASTICS A TOTAL GYMNASTICS EXPERIENCE 921-1 Lincoln Ave., Holbrook 631-567-0066 nasticsnextgen.com Nastics birthday parties include quality gymnastics instruction, exciting games, and the unforgettable experience on our trapeze, 40-foot Tumble-Trak, and trampoline.

NOT JUST ART 183 South St., Oyster Bay 516-922-8300 notjustart.com; create@notjustart.com Not Just Art has oodles of excellent music, art, and science parties for ages 1-12 and older. Choose from our treasury of super imaginative projects or use favorite themes and activities as a creative springboard.

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’s Island’s premier family fun center and birthday party place. Fun for the whole family with inflatables, 4-level soft playground, arcade, interactive floor games, and a full cafe!

SPIN DJ ACADEMY 202 Merrick Road, 2nd floor, Rockville Centre 16 Broadway, Amityville 631-608-8858 spindjacademy.com Customize your own DJ dance party with songs and instruments your child loves. Then head to our playspace for play and pizza!

STUDIO E ART CLASSES 565 Route 25A, Miller Place 631-744-4001 studioeartclass.com Studio E Art Classes offers two economical party options! “The Bash” Starting at only $290 and “The Extravaganza” starting at only $420! View details at studioeartclass.com/parties.

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

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Professional services

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

DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS CUMMINGS FAMILY DENTAL

42 High St., Huntington 631-425-1650 cummingsfamilydentistry.com cummingsfamilydentistry@aol.com At Cummings Family Dentistry, we believe that a dentist and patient are a team. We spend time listening to understand your concerns and respond with the best treatment options for you.

NORTH SHORE ORTHODONTICS

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

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

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS 3D MATERNITY IMAGING

1300 Union Turnpike, New Hyde Park 516-326-0011 3dmaternity.com We are committed to providing a memorable experience for expectant parents and their families. We take pride in knowing we produce quality 3D images and capture

50

amazing moments such as yawning, smiling, and even thumb-sucking.

LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY

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PEDIATRIC IMMEDIATE CARE

150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337) 698 Manhattan Ave., Brooklyn 718-389-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-of-the-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted.

STONY BROOK CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL PEDIATRIC VOIDING IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (VIP) 24 Research Way, East Setauket 631-444-6270 A comprehensive program for children and teens with bed-wetting and other urinary and bowel issues. Our experts offer innovative, age-appropriate solutions along with compassionate care.

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS ACT AS IF ETIQUETTE & PROTOCOL

718 Walt Whitman Road, Melville 561-889-4464 actasifetiquette.com Offering fun, informative, engaging classes for children, teens, and young adults, with the content geared toward modern manners for modern times. Serving scout troops, library, after-school programs, camps, groups, and individuals.

YOUR JOURNEY TO COLLEGE

Jeanmarie Wilson, school counselor, Your Journey To College consultant, and author, and Karen Schmalz 631-834-9503 yourjourneytocollege.com; parentingfromyoursoul.com yourjourneytocollege.blogspot.com jwilson@yourjourneytocollege.com Your Journey to College: find the right fit! College search, applications, essay, resume, and scholarships. Join our

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College Application Boot Camp Program for summer or fall.

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

FOOD & NUTRITION LITTLE VICKY’S

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

FOSTER CARE & ADOPTION BERKSHIRE FARM CENTER AND SERVICES FOR YOUTH 535 Broad Hollow Road, Suite B30, Melville 631-420-4444 berkshirefarm.org Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth helps children find safety and comfort in the homes of foster parents.

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LEGAL SERVICES ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN

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

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

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LICE FAIRY LICEMOTHERS

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LICE TAMERS, INC.

900 Walt Whitman Road, Suite LL2, Melville 877-237-LICE (5423) licetamers.com licetamers@gmail.com Lice Tamers offers same-day lice treatment and head checks at our comfortable, child-friendly treatment center or in the comfort of your home. All of our products are safe and non-toxic.

SPECIAL NEEDS ALTERNATIVES FOR CHILDREN

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

ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN

250 West 57th St., Suite 1216, Manhattan 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high quality service at a reasonable cost.

DR. STEVE IMBER, PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS

Serving Nassau and Suffolk Counties as well as the five boroughs of NYC 61-43 186th St., Fresh Meadows

516-273-1961 Sprout Building 166 Valley St., Providence, RI 401-421-4004 dr-imber.com scimber1@aol.com Dr. Imber has more than 40 years of experience consulting, evaluating, and advocating for children, adolescents, and adults with various disabilities including autism (e.g.

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

LIFE’S WORC THE FAMILY CENTER FOR AUTISM

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

LITTLE OPTICS, INC.

192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside 718-468-7500 Hablamos Español. littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional eye care for children, including infants, and young adults. We also alleviate any self-esteem issues associated with the stigma of wearing glasses. When your child leaves Little Optics, rest assured that they will feel confident.

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: 516-2161791, 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.

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

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

TUTORS & TEST PREP EYE LEVEL SUFFOLK

myeyelevel.com Eye Level offers math and English programs for

ages 3-14. Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic advancement, Eye Level is the answer.

ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITYST. 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 grades kindergarten-12th 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–sixth grade. A faith-based program offers a loving, caring environment.

SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER OF HUNTINGTON

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

to get the best results.

TAS NEW YORK – THEORY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

153 S. Broadway, Hicksville 1915 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park 1-888-827-8188 tasnewyork.com Here education matters. The No. 1 learning center in New York. We offer after-school programs, private and group tutoring, kids and adult art classes, computer coding, SAT and ACT prep, Create and Meditate sessions, and summer camp!

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 2018 Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org info@cshfishhatchery.org Join us at our open house and Fall Festival, Saturday, Sept. 29, 10am4:30pm. Enjoy kid’s fishing, petting zoo, pumpkin patch, castle bouncer, games, food, and live animal encounters.

Friends Academy

270 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley 516-676-0393 fa.org Come see Friends Academy for yourself! First Wednesday and last Wednesday of each month. No appointment necessary. Enter at Frost Hall between 9-10am.

The Gateway Performing Arts Center of Suffolk County The Gateway School for the Performing Arts

215 S. Country Road, Bellport 631-286-1133, 631-286-0555 x5000 thegateway.org Join us for an open house on Saturday, Sept. 8 from 11am-3pm at 215 S. Country Road in Bellport.

Winston Preparatory School

30 Deforest Road, Dix Hills 212-719-5598 x2213 winstonprep.edu/ liadmissions@winstonprep.edu Winston Prep is an individualized and responsive setting for third-12th grade students with specific learning differences. Join us at our open house Thursday, Sept. 27 at 9:15am.

LongIslandParent 51

Meet the

Health Care Professional Cummings Family Dental 42 High St., Huntington 631-425-1650 cummingsfamilydentistry.com cummingsfamilydentistry@aol.com

Dr. Cummings believes that a dentist and patient become a team for treating an individual’s dental needs. She spends time listening to understand your concerns and responds with the best treatment options for you. She received her degree from Howard University College of Dentistry and her postdoctoral training from University Hospital Stony Brook. Dr. Cummings is trained and experienced in providing dental care for patients with special needs, as well as complete dental care for the entire family. There’s a story behind every smile-we’d like to be part of yours!

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

OPPORTUNITY IN FINANCIAL SERVICES We are: One of the largest marketers of financial products in North America, looking for people who want to succeed.

We offer: An excellent educational system to teach you our business, a comprehensive support network, and competitive products that are highly desirable to most consumers.

Candidates should: Desire an excellent income potential, be committed to working hard, and possess a strong desire to succeed.

For more information, contact Linda Springer at 631.235.1749 (cell).

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.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, while providing exceptional dental care. He uses excellent behavioral management approaches, a child-friendly environment (TV and cartoons in treatment rooms), and sings to the patients! Dr. Ioannou currently participates with most insurance companies and has evening and Saturday hours.

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. Kidfriendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted. Complete pediatric and adolescent care, as well as baby, camp, school, and sports physicals. Certified urgent care recommended by Urgent Care Association of America. Thirty years of dedication to our patients. The offices are open seven days a week including holidays, 8am-11pm.

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool 29 Pinewood Drive, Commack 631-499-1237 bbdps.com

Donna M. Charbonneau is the executive director of Building Blocks Developmental Preschool. BBDPS offers a range of programs and services to children from infancy through age 5. It is 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.

raising kids NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! acrobatics / gymnastics

developmental

Nastics............................................................................27

Alternatives for Children ................................................49

performing arts / acting Gateway Playhouse........................................................21

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

Berkshire Farm Cter & Services for Youth .....................49

Huntington Center of Performing Arts ............................29

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool ..............37, 52

Joffrey Ballet School.......................................................21

birthday / party services

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech..................45, 52 The Learning Experience - Mt. Sinai..............................47

SoLuna Studio ...............................................................29

@ Play Amusement........................................................19 Bounce U - Farmingdale................................................43

play spaces

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery..................................41

education

@ Play Amusement........................................................19

Music Together LLC .......................................................41

Alternatives for Children ................................................49

Bounce U - Farmingdale................................................43

Nastics............................................................................27

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool ..............37, 52

Not Just Art ....................................................................23

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

religious

Picasso Kidz ..................................................................29

Fire Island School ..........................................................45

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

SoLuna Studio ...............................................................29

Friends Academy .............................................................9

Holy Angels Regional School.........................................19

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

Holy Angels Regional School.........................................19 Huntington Learning Center ..........................................28

camps Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate............................7 Friends Academy .............................................................9 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................25 Music Together LLC .......................................................41 Nastics............................................................................27 SoLuna Studio ...............................................................29 Studio E Art Classes.......................................................25 The Learning Experience - Mt. Sinai..............................47

child care / day care Alternatives for Children ................................................49 Berkshire Farm Cter & Services for Youth .....................49 The Learning Experience - Mt. Sinai..............................47 YMCA of Long Island .......................................................9

classes Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery..................................41 Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate............................7 Gateway Playhouse........................................................21 Joffrey Ballet School.......................................................21 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................25 Long Island Studio of Music ..........................................23 Ohman School of Ballet..................................................27 Picasso Kidz ..................................................................29 SoLuna Studio ...............................................................29 Studio E Art Classes.......................................................25 Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington ............................23

LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................25 Smithtown Christian School............................................37 St. Patrick Youth Community..........................................29 Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington ............................23 The Learning Experience - Mt. Sinai..............................47 Village East Gifted..........................................................29

family entertainment / events / outings @ Play Amusement........................................................19 Bounce U - Farmingdale................................................43 Gateway Playhouse........................................................21

St. Patrick Youth Community..........................................29

restaurant / food services Little Vicky’s ...................................................................49

special events Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery..................................41 Gateway Playhouse........................................................21 Long Island Press ..........................................................11

special needs Alternatives for Children ................................................49 Andrew M. Cohen Esq ...................................................17

financial planning / insurance

Berkshire Farm Cter & Services for Youth .....................49

Affinity Health Plan.........................................................55

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool ..............37, 52

Primerica .......................................................................52

Cummings Family Dental.........................................43, 52 Huntington Learning Center ..........................................28

fitness YMCA of Long Island .......................................................9

health Affinity Health Plan.........................................................55 Allied Foundation ...........................................................13 Cummings Family Dental.........................................43, 52 Fidelis Care New York......................................................5 Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County..........................2, 52 Pediatric Immediate Care.........................................47, 52 Stony Brook University - Urology......................................7

TJE Dance Force............................................................25 Village East Gifted..........................................................29

Smithtown Christian School............................................37

legal Services

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech..................45, 52 Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County..........................2, 52 Pediatric Immediate Care.........................................47, 52 SoLuna Studio ...............................................................29 Stony Brook University - Urology......................................7

sports Nastics............................................................................27 St. Patrick Youth Community..........................................29

theatre Gateway Playhouse........................................................21

YMCA of Long Island .......................................................9

Andrew M. Cohen Esq ...................................................17

SoLuna Studio ...............................................................29

dance

music

tutors

Huntington Center of Performing Arts ............................29

Huntington Center of Performing Arts ............................29

Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate............................7

Joffrey Ballet School.......................................................21

Long Island Studio of Music ..........................................23

Huntington Learning Center ..........................................28

Ohman School of Ballet..................................................27

Music Together LLC .......................................................41

Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington ............................23

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

Not Just Art ....................................................................23

Village East Gifted..........................................................29

LongIslandParent 53

raising kids quotables

How do you get your kids excited to go back to school?

“I tell my daughter my favorite memory from whichever grade she’s entering that year. This year she will be going into second grade, so I told her that was the year I won an award at the science fair. She’s psyched!”

—Melissa Ann Ferreira, Queens

“Tell them they’ll be able to see their friends every day.”

—Noelle Sarno Uno, Brooklyn

“I look up really cool DIY projects for school supplies and once a week throughout the summer we make the projects ourselves. My daughter can’t wait to show her friends all the cool stuff we made for school.”

—Tyaisha Harvey Greene, Suffolk

“I would leave notes in my children’s lunchboxes to get them excited and remind them that I love them.”

—Adena Saperstein, Nassau

“We go to Target and get back-to-school supplies!”

—Melissa Brown Eisenberg, Westchester

Downtime is rare in the life of a mom. Between deciding on schools and creating spreadsheets, it seems the day has begun and finished before we’ve had time to take a single breath. Downtime might seem like a thing of legend to us, but it can be a reality if we make it a priority. How we each make it happen is up to us, but happen it must.

— Jazmin Cybulski, in a post entitled “Simple Ways to Minimize the Stress of Being a Supermom” on themogulmom.com

“Are you stressing about gathering school supplies, schedules and time management? Parental stress can be picked up by your child so stay calm, watch what you say, and show confidence.”

— Michelle Spreckels, in a post entitled “How to Ease Back-to-School Anxiety” on momtrends.com

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September 2018 | nymetroparents.com

“I remind them that they can’t go back to camp until they finish another year of school!”

—Lisa Novick Bloom, Manhattan

“We talk about the exciting things they will learn in their new grade and all the upcoming fall happenings they look forward to.”

—Tara Suzanne, Rockland

LET TWEENS ARGUE “Rather than shut down arguments, give your child ample time to execute her case. Arguing is a critical skill that tweens desperately need as they proceed into adolescence.

Think about it: To turn down a beer at a party or resist a boyfriend’s sexual advances, your child needs a strong argumentative muscle. Standing up to you serves as practice for standing up for his or her beliefs and values.”

— Margaret Sagarese in an article entitled “Why Your Difficult Tween is Right on Track.” Read the whole story at nymetroparents.com/difficult-tween

More NYMetroParents.com Highlights: FARM FRESH: Your guide to farmers’ markets in the New York area (nymetroparents.com/farmers-markets) SPORTS SAFETY: Learn how to keep your child safe and healthy during sports practices and games (nymetroparents.com/safe-sports) OH BABY: 5 Things to Know About Your Postpartum Body (nymetroparents.com/postpartum) BAKE IT SPECIAL: Try the Ace of Cakes’ favorite brownie recipe for bake sales (nymetroparents.com/brownies)

Social Media Icons 2017:

BECAUSE TRUST IS IMPORTANT Child Health Plus offers the benefits kids need for a healthier future.

Call 866.206.1741 (TTY 711) AffinityPlan.org/CHP To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777.

LI Parent ECEW "Jump" full pg 2018:Layout 1 8/28/18 1:54 PM Page 1

Early Childhood Education Week • October 21-27

Give your children a leg up, with Early Childhood Education.

You want to give them a safe, loving environment. With structure and discipline. Not just day care, but a real school with certified teachers. A school that supports working Moms (and Dads), with before and after care—and gives students as young as three years old the fundamental skills they need to develop a lifetime love of learning. Of course, choosing a Catholic education gives them much more than an educational advantage. It also helps them understand their purpose in life and their obligations to others, reinforcing the values you live at home. Isn’t that what you want for your children?

To learn more about why Catholic Elementary School is a better place to start, and to find a school near you, visit us online at www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org or call 516-678-5800 x 258.