Sp 1017

LongIsland SUFFOLK EDITION

Parent OCTOBER 2017

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

7 Hottest

Birthday Trendsof 2017 Emojis, unicorns, Shopkins, and more!

Boo!

Haunted houses, corn mazes, and other Halloween activities

Teaching Kids Life Skills • Emotional intelligence • Financial literacy

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

LongIslandParent

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LongIslandParent

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NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

October 2017 ››

22

Features

16 The 7 Hottest Birthday Party Trends of 2017 This year brought new movies, toys, and fun ideas for your child’s next birthday party.

44

22 The Importance of EQ High emotional intelligence translates to success across the board—in children academically and in adults professionally.

38 The Payoff of Teaching Kids Financial Literacy Experts discuss how parents can establish skills from a young age to ensure kids will know how to handle their money.

40 An Unimaginable Tragedy Though local infant mortality rates are lower than the national average, more babies die in their first year than most of us expect. Here’s how parents can reduce the risk.

44 Conquering Bake Sales Surviving the minefield of baking treats for your kid’s class, and tips to make allergy-free baked goods.

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Check Out Our New Website!

12 Quotables 13 NYMP Q&A: Laurie Gelman talks about being the class mom and why she was fired.

50 Voices: Stop With the Trophies Already!

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16

Family Activities CALENDAR ›› Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com) Clothing provided

by Appaman (appaman.com)

Fun & Activities

14 DIY Corner: Ring Toss Challenge 26 Outing: Randall’s Island 27 Family Activities Calendar 36 Where-To Guide: Pick Your Own Pumpkins 37 Where-To Guide: Haunted Houses, Corn Mazes, and Pumpkin Activities

Directories

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20 25 43 46 47 48 49

Birthday Party Directory Religious Schools Meet the Health Care Professional Professional Services Open Houses Party Central Advertisers’ Index

››

ON THE COVER ›› 16 7 Hottest Birthday Trends of 2017 37 Boo! Haunted houses, corn mazes, and other Halloween activities Teaching Life Skills: 22 Emotional intelligence 38 Financial literacy facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

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

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LongIslandParent

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OCTOBER 2017 • Vol.9 • No.5

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

EDITOR’S NOTE

MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf

A Season of Celebration

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Jordan Laird

I

n our family, we have a birthday season: From Nov. 5 (my youngest daughter’s birthday) through Jan. 16 (mine), all five of us celebrate our special days. Sprinkle in a gaggle of other close-but-not-immediate family members—a cousin’s daughter, my brother and his son, a sister-in-law, among others—and it is a busy time.

Joyful, to be sure, but even joy brings its stresses, especially when you need to plan three kids’ birthday parties over the course of almost six weeks while scheduling around a bevvy of others’ parties, not to mention Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and New Year’s.

It’s around the middle of October when my wife and I kick into planning mode, and out come the Google spreadsheets, which we use to plan the parties and coordinate gifts. And, of course, the kids themselves are old enough to be involved and have their own wishes and opinions—which seem to change daily, especially as the event gets close. To help figure out this year’s parties, Bethany Braun-Silva looked into the hottest birthday themes of 2017, and she came back with unicorns, Shopkins, Star Wars, and much more (p. 16).

As our kids settle into the new school year, we’re offering articles about how to teach them essential life skills: Samantha Neudorf looks at teaching kids financial literacy (p. 38), while Katelin Walling offers a report on the value of kids’ emotional intelligence (p. 22). Together, they remind us that not all crucial skills come from classroom learning, and that we parents play such an important role in readying our kids for a successful, independent adult life.

October has been designated Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, so we’re offering a special report on a subject none of us wants to contemplate: Why do some babies die before they even turn 1? Stacey Pfeffer looks at local infant mortality rates and offers tips on how we can minimize the risks—and how parents who’ve experienced this horrific tragedy cope with a pain that will never go away (p. 40).

This month also, of course, brings Halloween and related fall fun. Find haunted houses and other Halloween venues near you (p. 37), discover where to pick pumpkins in our region (p. 36), or plan your kids’ Halloween activities with our calendar (p. 27).

Last but not least, I invite you to jump from page to screen and visit our newly relaunched website! The redesigned NYMetroParents.com makes it easier and quicker to find information and presents our content and resources in a cleaner, more attractive way on any device, all with the goal of helping you make better decisions for your kids.

Find out more about the new site (p. 10), and happy clicking!

To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents

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

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nymetroparents.com/np-sp Courtesy Rubie’s Costume Company

NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

Costume Stores Expand Offerings for Halloween Who: Rubie’s Costume Company What’s New: Additional and revamped in-store attractions, which are free and available daily, as well as new costumes at its Long Island and Queens stores.

The Melville store has a giant, light-up pumpkin and brought back the animatronic Dr. BacktoLife.

The Westbury location revamped and expanded the Dark Zone, added a “swamp room” and a virtual reality machine with 15 experiences for ages 10 and older.

The location in Richmond Hill, Queens, has new animatronic props and a Ghost Chamber.

The stores also have costumes and props from recent Spiderman, Wonder Woman, and Despicable Me movies.

Want More Info: 540 Broadhollow Road, Melville; 631-297-8600 and 603 Cantiague Rock Road, Westbury; 516-500-9330; shoprubies.com

Rubie’s Costume Company has interactive in-store attractions, such as this virtual reality machine, which visitors can experience for free in Westbury.

KidzHitz offers Rockstar Birthday Parties, which include a recording session in its state-of-the-art recording studio.

Courtesy Huntington Ballet Academy

Who: KidzHitz What’s New: Rockstar Birthday Parties, which the music school started offering early September within its newly renovated party space.

Rockstar Birthday Parties give kids the opportunity to record an original song in a state-of-the-art recording studio, design a CD cover, and have their song published on the KidzHitz YouTube channel.

The 1½-hour birthday party package includes on-stage karaoke, pizza, juice, and cupcakes.

The newly renovated party space can hold up to 30 kids ages 5-15 for a variety of celebrations.

KidzHitz also offers private music lessons in piano, guitar, drums, voice, and more.

Want More Info: 304 Main St., Huntington; 631-470-9788; kidzhitz@gmail.com; kidzhitz.biz

Courtesy KidzHitz

Music School Launches Rockstar Birthday Parties

Ballet Academy Adds Teen and Beginner Classes Who: Huntington Ballet Academy What’s New: Teen ballet and modern classes, plus open ballet classes for beginners ages 7 and older, which will run in 10-week sessions starting in October.

All Huntington Ballet Academy teachers are American Ballet Theatre®-certified.

The academy is a part of the Long Island Ballet Theatre, and students take part in its classic productions such as Sleeping Beauty.

“A Long Island Ballet Theatre alumna will be directing The Nutcracker production this year after enjoying a successful professional dance career and serving as its assistant director last year,” says Joan Albright, owner of Huntington Ballet Academy.

Want More Info: Inside Huntington Center for Performing Arts: 310 New York Ave., Huntington; 631-271-4626; huntingtoncenter@yahoo.com; huntingtonballet.com 8

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

An alumna of the Long Island Ballet Theatre will direct its performance of The Nutcracker this year.

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Check Out Our New Website!

››

The redesigned NYMetroParents.com helps you make better decisions for your family—faster and easier than ever.

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s our kids were heading back to school with their new outfits and freshly chosen backpacks and lunch boxes, we here at NYMetroParents decided to get in the spirit and debut a new look of our own with the relaunch of NYMetroParents.com. The website is now cleaner, faster, easier to use, and more attractive—all to help you be a more informed parent. Our goal is to connect you seamlessly to all the relevant, useful local information and resources our site offers: business listings, kid-focused events and activities, and news and tips essential to moms and dads.

Here are some of the highlights of our new site:

A cleaner look, softer color scheme, and new logo to match the new feel. We’re excited about our updated logo, which you can also find on the cover of this magazine, while our uncluttered design helps you focus on the content and information for which you’re looking with fewer distractions.

Find your region easier. We know you need to find ballet schools and pediatricians and therapists close to your home, so we’ve made it super easy to find your region’s content, via a pop-up that greets you when you arrive and/or the “My Region” option on the navigation bar. Each region has its own color scheme, adding to the vibrancy of the site and giving each region a bit of its own flavor and personality.

The new “megamenu” displaying the breadth and depth of the content the site offers.

Easier, clearer navigation. Across the top of our desktop site—and in the top-right “Topics” menu on mobile—you’ll find the core types of information we provide: business and resource listings, tips about things to do, advice and news about local parenting, and a comprehensive events calendar.

For a deeper dive into the site and to find more specific listings, use our new “megamenu,” the “Search Categories” link at the top left of the page (“menu” on mobile). There you will find virtually our entire catalog of listings categories, from specific sports to special needs resources to summer camp options.

You’ll see this tool throughout the site to help you find the resources you need in your area.

New ways to find businesses and resources. Connecting you with the local professionals, businesses, and resources that keep your family healthy, happy, and enriched is central to our mission. In addition to the easier navigation, you’ll find a tool throughout the site that asks you what kind of business you need and in what location—make your choices, click the arrow, and search the results to find what you’re looking for.

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

A better mobile experience. As parents, we’re all on the go (sometimes it seems like we’re in motion 24/7!) and using our phones to access the content and information that helps us make the decisions we need to make. To help, our new site focuses on the mobile experience, ensuring it is just as rich, easy to use, and attractive as it is on desktop. And it’s fast. Because we know you don’t have time to wait!

As we all well know, being a parent requires making decisions large and small for our kids every day—no matter how busy we are.

We spent the past several months designing a website to help you find what you need to make better decisions faster, easier, and more accurately and fully.

We are so proud to invite you to check out the newly relaunched NYMetroParents.com today!

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UOTABLES This was also about the point that they both started begging me to carry their treat bags. ‘I’ll carry your treat bags but that means I’m allowed to eat your candy,’ was my rule. That put a stop to the laziness real quick.

—Illana Wiles, a NYC mom, in a post entitled “Halloween in NYC Gets Better Every Year” on her blog mommyshorts.com

in an instagram Morning commute. #nyckids #twins #bestfriends (Posted by @toastncandy, aka Nancy Deane, HeyMamaCo editor and New York mom).

HALLOWEEN FOR THE FRIGHTENED “If you can get kids to realize that Halloween involves fun activities that the whole family can take part in, they’ll feel more at ease about it. You can all carve pumpkins, bake cookies or make other Halloween treats, and decorate the house with items your child picked out. You can even forego trick-or-treating and just spend the evening roasting marshmallows or reading books as a family. ”

in an instagram I can’t wait to see the world with these girls but for right now, our backyard is adventure enough.

(Posted by @luckypennyblog, aka Ana Fritsch, a Brooklyn mom who blogs at luckypennyblog.com).

—Samantha Neudorf, in an article entitled “Making Halloween Fun For Kids Who Are Scared.” Read it all at nymetroparents.com/scary-fun

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: COSTUME PLANNING: What should your child be this Halloween? (nymetroparents.com/costume) GET CRAFTY: Find Spooky Art Projects at nymetroparents.com/halloween-diy.

TODDLER FUN: How to trick-or-treat with your little one (nymetroparents.com/toddler-halloween) HALLOWEEN TREATS: Eyeball cake pops, monster ‘toes,’ and more at nymetroparents.com/halloween-treats

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

BACK TO SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

NYMP Q&A

Class Mom Qualms

›› By Bethany Braun-Silva

Laurie Gelman talks about her novel Class Mom and how she got fired from her class mom position after five years.

Is Jennifer Dixon (the main character) based on anyone in particular? She’s someone I just pieced together. I wish she was me, she’s so cool. The only thing that comes from reality are the emails [in the book] because I sent emails either exactly like that or very similar to my class when I was class mom.

Is your child gifted?

The emails in the book are hilarious. What prompted you to get so creative with them during your time as class mom?

When I wasn’t class mom I would get these really boring grocery list emails that were just cut and paste from the parent-teacher association, and I thought, “I want to do something interesting, I want people to read these, I want people to actually have fun with it,” so I decided that I would write things that would shock or awe people or make them sit up and go, “Oh my gosh, did she just write that?” It actually worked, because I had more people participating and reading every word of my emails than any other class mom, because they were excited to see what I was going to say next.

Do you have any advice for moms who may be contemplating taking on the class mom role? I think you have to make it your own and make it fun. Make it something the parents can’t resist being a part of. I used to give awards for the quickest response time to one of my emails or the person who embodied the spirit of a class mom the most. I just made it fun for everybody. I wrote one email for the Christmas party that had to be sung to the tune of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”. Everybody loved that because you end up humming it to yourself. I just tried to do things that piqued everybody’s interest and make it more fun for them. I think that’s the best way to be a great class mom.

What’s your favorite thing about raising kids in NYC? I love the fact that we get to go to the museums, the fact that it’s a weekly thing, not a once-in-a lifetime adventure. There’s so much opportunity to experience culture and excitement and their backyard is something everyone in the world wants to see at least once. It’s really exciting to raise kids in New York. Something we started to do more of is Broadway—we are in the best place in the world to see a show and my girls love theater.

Enriching brilliant minds every day… in every way.

A

But I read that this backfired on you and you got fired from the class mom position, is that true? Well to be fair, it was in my fifth year, I’d been doing it for four years and everybody loved it and it’s all good until somebody doesn’t like you. In my fifth year I upset someone or someone didn’t understand my humor, so they complained to the PTA and asked me to step down as class mom, which was very hurtful.

CA

DEMI

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C

E X YEARS - OF E CE LLENC

Academic Enrichment in All Subject Areas Ages 2-16

LongIslandParent 13

DIY CORNER Birthday Party Game

Ring Toss Challenge

Do you love fairground games but hardly ever get to play them? Why not create your own ring toss game at home? Invite your friends to play, then work on perfecting your aim.

The game is very easy to make and will provide hours of fun for you and your friends. Make sure you store the board inside so you can use it again and again!

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

STEP 4

STEP 5

STEP 6

STEP 7

STEP 8

Difficulty Level: Easy What you will need: • Adhesive putty • Ruler • Scissors • Pencil • Paintbrushes • Paints • Large cardboard sheet Directions: 1. To make your target board, draw the outline of the board on a sheet of cardboard and add sloping flaps on either side. These will make the board stand up.

2. Carefully cut out your target board with scissors. Make sure you don’t cut off the sloping flaps!

3. Use a ruler and the tops of your scissors to score both sloping ends of the target board. Fold them back to create flaps to stand your board up.

4. It’s time to decorate the board. Paint the stand one color and each pin a different color, so they stand out.

5. Place your ring template (visit nymetroparents.com/ ring-toss to download) on a piece of cardboard and draw around it. Repeat the process to draw as many rings as you want.

6. Cut the rings out. Cut around the outside first, then place the adhesive putty underneath, pierce the center of the ring with a sharp pencil, and cut it out.

7. Paint the rings and leave them to dry. You can make them any color you like. You could even add patterns like stripes or dots to your set.

8. The ring toss board is ready. Find some friends and try it out. If you want to make things competitive, paint different point values on the pins and see who can reach 100 points first.

Images and text of Out of the Box reprinted by permission of DK, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2017 by Jemma Westing.

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

BACK TO SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

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www.SappoSchool.com LongIslandParent 15

The 7 Hottest Birthday Party Trends of 2017 This year brought new movies, toys, and fun ideas for your child’s birthday party. Here are our favorites. By Bethany Braun-Silva

the Tail on the Donkey. “I found a picture of Princess Leia and my husband printed it out on nine sheets of paper that I taped together. I then covered the bulk of the poster with clear adhesive contact paper. The kids wore a C3PO mask that I made so that they couldn’t see and attempted to ‘Pin the Bun on Princess Leia.’

The bun is brown yarn wrapped and hot glued to cardboard,” she writes on her blog.

Courtesy Trisha Haas

Courtesy Amy Friend

We scoured the mom blogs and studied our Instagram feed in search of the trendiest kids’ birthday party themes of the year. And what did we find? Plenty of unicorns, emojis, and Shopkins, among many other fun ideas. Here are our picks for the hottest birthday party themes of 2017:

Unicorn Poop Cupcake Cones, a hilarious and easy-to-make treat for a memorable unicorn-themed birthday party

Unicorns A Star Wars-themed version of Pin the Tail on the Donkey

Star Wars

With the release of Rogue One: A Star Wars Movie late last year and the impending December debut of The Last Jedi, many kids will be wanting a Star Wars-themed party, complete with light sabers, storm troopers, and more. Blogger Amy Friend of DuringQuietTime.com created a Stars Wars spin on the classic Pin 16

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

These mythical creatures are definitely having a moment this year.

With the launch of the Unicorn Frappuccino at Starbucks and a unicorn horn store in Brooklyn, it seems like unicorns are everywhere, including very possibly at your little one’s next birthday party. Think pastel colors and lots of glitter to make this party extra special. You can create personalized horns for each child, or have them decorate their own as a fun activity. Trisha Haas, who blogs at momdot.com, made fun Unicorn Poop Cupcake Cones that are as easy to create as they are hilarious. You just need some cake mix, ice cream cones, and food coloring to create this one-of-a-kind-treat.

Courtesy Alison Faulkner of thealisonshow.com

ACTIVITIES

Sugar cookies easily become emoji cookies for a fun addition to an emojithemed party.

Emojis

Courtesy Nicole Gonzalez

The Emoji Movie was released this summer, and since then my 5-year-old has been running around the house screaming, “We’re number two! We’re number two!” So it’s no surprise we are considering an emoji-themed party for his next birthday. One easy-todo idea is creating emojis out of clementines. It’s a healthy snack option and a creative way to let the kids make their very own emoji.

Hand out clementines to each of the children and lay out permanent markers. You can hang some emoji print outs for inspiration.

Less healthy but lots of fun, you can also decorate sugar cookies for fun, edible emoji. This party is also great for teens and tweens.

Invite guests to play “name that movie” using only emojis. Or if you’ve got an avid texter—is there a teen who isn’t?—an emoji party is a fun way for Mom and Dad to play the “cool card.”

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Pokémon cupcakes round out a birthday party of Pokémon-themed activities.

Pokémon

ACTIVITIES

No mobile devices are necessary to have a good time at this party.

Manhattan mom blogger Nicole Gonzalez of LilliesandLeon.com threw a Pokémon-themed party for her son’s 5th birthday. “Lucas is Pokémon obsessed, and we wanted his party to be simple but true to the characters and theme,” Gonzalez says. “A highlight for the kids were the Pokéball cupcakes made by Chloe Sackett.”

You can also create your very own Pokémon Go hunt right in your own home, sans cellphones. Just take a cue from the game and hide cut outs around the house. You can divide up the kids into teams and award points for each Pokémon found. Nothing like an old-fashioned scavenger hunt to keep the kids entertained. continued on next page ››

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Courtesy Christy Bergerson

Courtesy Victoria Saley

‹‹ continued from previous page

A fun idea for favors to top off a fun Lego-themed party

Lego

Courtesy Natalie Lesnefsky

For endless options and ways to play, Lego is the go-to toy—and it can also be the go-to option for birthday parties. Create a “bricks station” where partygoers can make an original creation to take home. And baking a Lego cake is fairly easy for the not-so-crafty parent: All you need is a cake pan, cupcake molds, and colorful frosting.

Blogger Victoria Saley of www.Obseussed.com created Lego-themed party favors and put a mystery mini figurine in each one!

All ready for a Shopkins-themed birthday party

Shopkins A colorful, Hawaiian-focused Moana birthday party

Moana

Thanks to Disney’s hit Moana, you can expect to see a lot of Hawaiian-themed parties this year and next. Parents can get creative by using tons of flowers for decoration as well as DIY costumes for the partygoers. Why not set up a designated area where kids can dress up like characters from the movie? Have temporary tattoos and straw skirts ready for your guests to get into the spirit.

Christy Bergerson from Itsy Belle Studio, a Printable Party Shop in Washington state, used pineapple blow-ups for her daughter’s Moana pool party. “I was hesitant when my daughter first said she wanted a Moana-themed birthday party, but I decided to run with it and it ended up being one of our favorite events to date!,” she says.

“Playing with bright colors and tropical touches instead of going strictly character based allowed us to really create a fun, playful event with just enough elements of her favorite movie included.”

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

These delicious little toys are all the rage, and since they’re food-centric, planning sweets and treats for a Shopkins party should be a breeze. Create shopping basket party favors that kids can fill themselves. Fill several bins with toys, treats, and other party favor paraphilia. Give each kid a basket and have her take a treat from each bin—it will be like they are “shopping” for their own favors.

Natalie Lesnefsky of AtHomewithNatalie.com created a balloon garland over the must-have dessert table. “We were deep in the Shopkins craze over here so the party theme was a no brainer!,” she says. “It was really fun because both girls were old enough to help a lot with the party details. I had a balloon pump and they worked together to pump up almost all of the balloons... even tying them on their own! Together we created a fun balloon garland for the Dessert Table that immediately made it a party! The secret to the arch is the chicken wire! It’s awesome because it’s lightweight and moldable. All you do is hot glue clusters of balloons together, then make a tape tail and attach it to the chicken wire that you shaped and attached to the wall. (I had two nails holding it up.) Then go in and add more with tape or hot glue.”

BACK TO SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH

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

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

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol

CHILDREN’S ETIQUETTE CLASSES

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

Modern Manners & Social Etiquette For Modern Times

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

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

program runs on Saturdays from October 7th to December 16th and the spring program runs on Saturdays from February 3rd to April 28th.

The program is open to gifted children entering grades K-8 in September 2017. The program expands

Grace, Integrity & Confidence.

www.ActAsIfEtiquette.com

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

561-889-4464

Celebrating Our 33rd Anniversary

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

3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES 3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES 3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES 3PECIAL 'ENERAL %DUCATION #LASSES %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS %) 3PECIAL )NSTRUCTION s PARENT #HILD 'ROUPS 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS 4 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS 4ODDLER 3EPARATION 'ROUPS

For ages 2 thru teen and everyone in-between!

Mommy & Me Kids Teens

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Building Blocks is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency and has been providing services to children from birth to age 5 years and their families for 30 years.

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All authorized services provided to eligible children are funded through NYS & Suffolk County at no cost to families. for 3-5 of 3-5 age.

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“Extraordinary Picassos” for children with special needs PLUS… ADULT Paint Nights Too!

Cold Spring Harbor

Fish Hatchery & Aquarium UNIQUELY AWESOME

BIRTHDAY B BIR IR IRTH TH HD DAY PARTIES! DA DAY PARTIES PA PAR TIES TI IES E !

Celebrate while exploring the aquarium, feeding fish & enjoying a live animal presentation!

PARENT & ME POLLYWOG ADVENTURES Wednesdays & Thursdays | 10am | Ages 2-5

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Join us for an hour of fun-filled nature activities Fish Feeding ~ Crafts ~ Stories ~ Games

LongIslandParent 19

BIRTHDAY PARTIES 2017 Birthday Party Entertainment

A Couple of Puppets Theatre

631-276-1014 acoupleofpuppets.com acoupleofpuppets@gmail.com Entertain your party guests with a Little Red Riding Hood puppet show! Children squeal with delight throughout this traditional tale with a twist. Find out what happens when Little Red gets mixed up with Porquoi the pig, who is in the wrong story. Complete with changing scenery, music, and charming hand puppets, this show will have them ratting on the wolf and cheering Little Red to safety.

The show is 30 minutes and most appropriate for ages 2-7. We travel to your home or venue.

The Food Wizard for Kids

Serving all of Long Island 631-606-2680 thefoodwizardforkids.com info@thefoodwizardforkids.com Try a healthy twist on birthday parties! The Food Wizard for Kids provides birthday party workshops for younger children.

Kids discover new foods (mainly fruits and vegetables) through fun activities including taste tests and art projects as well as fun discussions about mealtime behavior. Call 631-606-2680 for more information.

Key to My Art Inc.

10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 keytomyart.com info@keytomyart.com Key to My Art on Wheels.

Looking to host a painting party at your home or special venue?

Key to My Art on Wheels brings the paint party to you! We will set your home or venue up with easels, aprons, and all supplies needed to have a fun, creative paint event. You choose the subject matter! We can work with any theme you want. All ages!

We paint with toddlers, school age kids, adults, and seniors!

Anyone can paint! Great for birthdays, surprise parties, showers, fundraisers, PTA, Scouts, and school groups!

20

Mad Science of Long Island

Call for locations throughout Long Island: 855-264-1672 madscienceli.com info@madscienceli.com For more than 30 years Mad Science has provided top-quality educational and fun science programs for children. Its hands-on, high-energy parties are performed by a trained Mad Scientist, who brings all the necessary equipment to your home or the location of your choice. All birthday party packages include Mad Science invitations and a take-home activity each child works on during the party. It also offers fantastic grand finales such as Bubbling Potions, Rocket Launching, and Science Goodie Bags.

Spin DJ Academy

202 Merrick Road, 2nd Floor, Rockville Centre 16 Broadway, Amityville 631-608-8858 spindjcademy.com Spin DJ Birthday Parties are a fun and personalized experience for your child! Partygoers get to be the life of the party and learn basic DJ skills with today’s top hits!

Customize your DJ dance party with songs and instruments your child loves, then head to our play space for food and fun! Add to the party with music videos, character appearance, glitter tattoos, party favors, and more! Spin DJ can bring the party to you! We’ll bring DJ equipment and instruments to create an experience to remember!

Birthday Party Places

@ Play Amusements

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

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Your local guide to party places, resources, and activities for kids!

sure to be a hit! The action-packed amusement center will make your child’s special day be one they will never forget! Fun for all ages!

Art Buzz Kids

35 Jackson Ave., Syosset 516-802-4954 syosset@wineanddesign.com 21 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre 516-442-0330 rvc.ny@wineanddesign.com wineanddesign.com Spark your child’s creativity and imagination! Art Buzz Kids offers family-friendly painting and craft classes for children of all ages.

Our birthday party themes are designed to inspire and excite all children. Art Buzz Kids is perfect for birthday parties, after-school classes, and summer camps. Our passion is art and inspiring children to have fun, get creative, and feel proud of their work! Your child’s inner artist is guaranteed to shine while being taught by a great team of professionals. You’ll always take home a masterpiece with Art Buzz Kids.

BounceU Farmingdale

101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com BounceU Farmingdale was voted “Best of Long Island” for Children’s Party Place and Family Amusement Center. We provide the ideal combination of inflatable structures, a clean environment, incredible customer service, and non-stop excitement in a private party atmosphere. We feature giant inflatable toys and a wide variety of activities for children and adults, including basketball and boxing, obstacle courses, and slides. We take pride in providing superior customer service. Private parties are meticulously planned and prepared by our knowledgeable staff, so parents can relax and enjoy themselves.

Celebrations In The Kitchen

63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen.com celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com The most unique, fun-filled, joyous event! We have created

a true baking experience for everyone to enjoy—children, parents, family, friends, and boys and girls of any age. Guests enjoy our first-class facility complete with a huge exhibition-size kitchen, private party rooms, and a fabulous café and espresso bar for the adults to socialize! Baking experiences include cookie baking and decorating, cupcakes “from scratch,” muffin and scone baking, and brownies. Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties and classes.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org info@cshfishhatchery.org Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium!

See the Hatchery & Aquarium’s exciting live exhibits. Feed the hungry trout and learn about fish, reptiles, and amphibians with an up-close animal encounter.

For children turning ages 3 and older. Fishing Parties available too! Fishing Partygoers will enjoy a 45-minute fishing bonanza. Fishing is catch-and-release only. For children turning ages 4 and older.

All parties will be followed by your desired festivities. Educational party hosts and goodie bags included.

Give It Your All Sports

2127 Lakeland Ave., Ronkonkoma 631-676-4412 giveityourallsports.com info@giveityourallsports.com With four complete party packages to choose from, Give It Your All Sports is your choice when it comes to having fun, keeping children laughing, and leaving tired. Leave all the work to us and sit back and enjoy the show! From toddlers to teenagers, Give It Your All Sports party packages will exceed your expectations. Make your child’s party experience a memory that will last a long time. Inflatables and sports mix provides the proper balance to keep the kids’ attention throughout the party!

Look us up on Facebook!

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. We offer a variety of parties and will also customize anything for you. Choose a theme, and we provide the rest.

Our staff will help you be creative with your theme; your choice of ballerina, nutcracker, soldier, princess, sugar plum fairy, and more! As a special treat, a guest artist will come in costume to perform for your guests! We specialize in making your child’s birthday a magical memory to cherish for a lifetime!

at the Long Island Aquarium!

Take a private tour of the aquarium with one of our expert educators. Receive preferential treatment at our Simulator and Discovery Tower rides and special seating at our Sea Lion Show, during which the birthday child will get a shoutout from one of the stars! Have lunch and an ice cream cake in your private party room. The party doesn’t end when the candles are blown out; your guests have access to the aquarium for the entire day.

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center

10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 keytomyart.com info@keytomyart.com Celebrate your child’s birthday or special occasion with us at Key to My Art! It’s a mini paint night for kids! Your child chooses what the group paints! They can choose any theme, character, animal, or place! Our children’s paint parties include all supplies from aprons to easels, plus step-by-step instruction, pizza, and juice for all the children! Everyone leaves with a finished painting they can proudly hang on their wall at home! Our paint events are also great for showers, Girl Scout troops, and fundraisers.

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 At My Gym the goal is to not only make your party amazing but to make it a wonderful memory for all that attend.

Parties include special touches such as our “Birthday March,” and customized music and activities. You will also have exclusive use of the gym, including a zip line, rock wall, trampoline, trapeze, climbing structures, and slides. The highly trained, enthusiastic instructors lead your guests through action-packed activities, with theme options such as Superheroes, Mickey Mouse, Princesses, or any theme you choose.

KIDZHITZ

Not Just Art

Key to My Art Inc.

304 Main St., Huntington 631-470-9788 kidzhitz.biz kidzhitz@gmail.com RockStar Parties at KIDZHITZ are like no other party experience.

Children record their own song in our state-of-the-art recording studio built just for kids. They design their own CD cover and perform for each other on our Main Street location stage. Everything is included in our 1½-hour party, from pizza to juice and all paper goods. Visit us at kidzhitz.biz or call 631-470-9788.

Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center

431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 x186 longislandaquarium.com Have an Aquatic Birthday Party

183 South St., Oyster Bay 516-922-8300 notjustart.com create@notjust art.com Not Just Art has oodles of excellent music, art, and science parties for ages 1-12 and older.

Choose from our treasury of super imaginative projects or use favorite themes and activities as a creative springboard. We customize the fun to your child’s interest! Each party is thoughtfully designed with variations and adaptations to make sure all children feel successful and included. Staffed by seasoned teachers and party helpers, our celebrations are unique and personalized experiences! Parties can be adapted for playgroups, Scout troops, field trips, and other events.

Picasso Kidz, Creative Art Studio For Children

Spin DJ Academy

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. We work with you to create the birthday of your child’s dreams! We are committed to creating a fun party and making sure each artist creates a work that is uniquely theirs.

Party hosts are NYS-certified art teachers, who teach the children two unique art lessons. Break out of the typical party and create a memorable, educational, and fun party for your child!

202 Merrick Road, 2nd Floor, Rockville Centre 16 Broadway, Amityville 631-608-8858 spindjcademy.com Spin DJ Birthday Parties are a fun and personalized experience for your child! Partygoers get to be the life of the party and learn basic DJ skills with today’s top hits! Customize your DJ dance party with songs and instruments your child loves, then head to our play space for food and fun! Add to the party with music videos, character appearance, glitter tattoos, party favors, and more!

Spin DJ can bring the party to you! We’ll bring DJ equipment and instruments to create an experience to remember!

Safari Adventure

The Village Artist

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. Children have a blast with the best mix of attractions on the East End, and parents can feel comfortable knowing their children are playing in one of the cleanest facilities on the island. Fun for the whole family with inflatables, four-level soft playground, arcade, hands-on creative sensory, interactive floor games and kinetic sand table, sensory calming spa for children with special needs, and a full café!

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts

2 E. Main St., Smithtown 631-724-3700 smithtownpac.org boxoffice@smithtownpac.org Treat your child to a different type of birthday party this year!

Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts will present great shows for kids including Beauty and the Beast Jr., Sept. 16-Oct. 29; The Lion King Experience Jr. Edition, Feb. 10-24, 2018; Seussical Jr., March 17-April 29, 2018; and Willy Wonka Jr., May 19-June 24, 2018. We provide a private room for your gathering.

Cast members will meet with your party to sign autographs and pose for pictures. Call 631724-3700 for more information and to book your date today.

630 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-0715 thevillageartist.com lori@thevillageartist.com Create art for your next birthday party! The Village Artist Fine Arts Center is proud to host your next birthday party. Enjoy a fun and creative time with your family and friends. Celebrate your child’s birthday in a unique and fun way. Party services include 2 hours of studio time, creative art project of your choice (clay sculpture, painting, drawing, wood creations), step-by-step instructions, art supplies, free art class gift certificates for each child, invitations with directions, and separate dining area. Bringing creativity to Huntington Village since 1995.

What’s Cooking?

30 E. Main St., Oyster Bay 516-922-COOK (2665) whatscookingny.com info@whatscookingny.com Martha Stewart, Newsday, and News 12 boast What’s Cooking? is a No. 1 Choice Birthday Party Place where children can explore their creativity in culinary arts.

Offering a wide variety of party themes, we exceed customer’s expectations with superior service, quality, and value. Hottest party theme: Cupcake Wars! Funtastic cookie, cupcake, chocolate, pretzel, or pizza parties can be customized in our spacious party room with an ice cream candy bar or chocolate fountain, making your party memorable!

LongIslandParent 21

Being able to discern others’ feelings and acting based on that information is part of emotional intelligence, so experts suggest parents begin clearly demonstrating empathy around elementary school-aged children to help them learn what it means to be a good friend.

The Importance of EQ

››

High emotional intelligence translates to success across the board—in children academically and in adults professionally. Here’s how you can help your child succeed in all development stages. By Katelin Walling

E

motional intelligence (EQ) is a hot topic these days, from the slew of articles discussing characteristics of those with high emotional intelligence to the business articles revealing the emotional-intelligence job skills everyone needs to be successful. And members of Bachelor Nation will undoubtedly remember the showdown between Corinne Olympios and Taylor Nolan on Nick Viall’s season of ABC’s The Bachelor, when Nolan told Olympios she lacked emotional intelligence.

But what exactly is emotional intelligence, and how can parents ensure their children have a high level? We spoke to experts to get a clear picture of EQ, its benefits to children, and how parents can help children build their emotional intelligence skills.

22

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Emotional Intelligence Explained

Psychologists John D. Mayer, Ph.D., and Peter Salovey, Ph.D., first coined the term emotional intelligence in the ’90s. Their definition of EQ is “the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them, and to use this information to guide one’s thinking and action.”

This is the definition the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence uses, says Kathryn Lee, M.A., director of RULER for Families at the center. (RULER is an acronym for the building blocks of emotional intelligence: recognizing, understanding, labeling, expressing, and regulating emotions.)

Meanwhile, The Collaborative for Academic, Social and

Emotional Learning combines social and emotional intelligences and divides those into five skill areas: self-awareness, selfmanagement, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making, according to Jennifer Miller, M.Ed., who formerly worked with CASEL and is currently an expert contributor for NBC’s Parent Toolkit and creator and author of the blog Confident Parents, Confident Kids.

Keeping these two definitions in mind, Lee and Miller say a child has a good EQ level if she is able to: name her feelings and moods, respond flexibly to changes in her environment, show empathy toward others, appraise how others are feeling, recover more quickly from upset or disappointment, and manage emotions in a challenging environment (calm herself down, articulate what she’s feeling, and move forward).

Benefits of Emotional Intelligence

While kids will utilize emotional intelligence skills in everyday life and social interactions, building those skills can help children be more successful academically and, later on, professionally.

Schools with a focus on social-emotional learning had an 11-percent advantage on high-stakes achievement tests as compared to schools without such a focus, according to a 2011 meta-analysis published in the journal Child Development, which looked at the effectiveness of 213 school-based social and emotional learning programs.

“That’s pretty significant when you look at moving the needle on academic performance,” Miller says.

A 20-year retrospective study published in the American Journal of Public Health in 2015 compared the social-emotional competencies in children as kindergarteners and again as 25-year-olds. The study found that for every point increase in the person’s original score, he was 54 percent more likely to graduate from high school, twice as likely to attain a college degree, and 46 percent more likely to have a full-time job at the age of 25.

As children become members of the workplace of today and the future, they are required to be critical, creative, and innovative thinkers. Employers require employees that are able to collaborate, work in teams, and understand cross-cultural communications in a global economy, including perspective taking, empathy, and social awareness, Miller says. “You go down the list of social-emotional competencies, and they have become the foundation of what employers are looking for in the workforce, so it is absolutely critical in looking to the future,” she says.

How to Help Kids Build Emotional Intelligence

Since social-emotional intelligence is a set of skills, “they can be learned at any point. You’re not born with it, it’s not static, it’s dynamic,” Miller says. “There is not a kid in the world that doesn’t need support in this area. As they develop, they are working on their skills, so [support] is critical. It’s not a low income issue, it’s not a cultural issue, it’s very much every child needs to understand and relate to each other effectively.”

So how can parents help their children build social-emotional skills?

Miller and Lee share their tips for various stages of development.

Toddlers and Pre-K

Build your child’s feeling-word vocabulary. Help her learn to identify and name how she is feeling. “Even preschoolers can use words like frustrated, lonely, or surprised—and when

they are able to name their feelings, they become more able to understand and work with their feelings,” Lee says.

One way parents can help their toddler or pre-K age child is to separate him from the situation to take stock of his feelings.

Lead “a young child into a safe space—in other words not in a public forum where a bunch of people are looking at them where they can get even more upset because they’re humiliated by the social context,” Miller says. “Walk them to a safe place where they can calm down, you can model breathing, help them breathe, and then give them words to ask them whether you’re right about their feelings. It seems like you’re really frustrated, is that right? It seems like you’re angry, like you’re hurt, is that right?” This very brief statement about what he is feeling and experiencing can help him begin to name and label those feelings.

Elementary School

Cultivate friend-making skills. Pre-K to second-grade children are beginning to create genuine friendships, but they’re new to creating friendships, Miller says. “Children need a lot of help in figuring out how to be a good friend and to have friends,” she says. “At the beginning of the school year, you can practice making introductions if they’re nervous about not knowing other kids, and you can do that with stuffed animals or action figures that they play with: Hi, I want to introduce you to Betsy Bear. It’s nice to meet you, this is so-and-so.”

Demonstrate empathy. “In elementary school, friends become increasingly important. Elementary school-aged children learn to identify and become attuned to peers’ facial expressions and perspectives. So parents can support their children by helping them learn how to understand others’ feelings, and to empathize with them, creating the basis for becoming a true friend,” Lee says.

In the home, where emotions are okay to talk about and explore, Lee recommends parents try to model empathy by saying, I wonder how your friend’s doing. She looked a little sad when she was here the other day—have you noticed that? or Gosh, I remember his parents are separated. I wonder if there is anything we can do to show our love and support for him? “Helping your child learn to develop an empathic frame for their experience can really mean a lot for a child during those elementary school years,” Lee says.

Practice self-management techniques. Third- through sixthgraders start to encounter more complicated social problems, such as bullying. So, Miller says, their self-management skills become really important. To help your child become a responsible decision-maker, discern what her values are, and act responsibly in social environments, Miller suggests practicing these scenarios with your child at home: how to deal when she is picked on, help her practice ways to respond to bullies whether she is the one being bullied or witnessing it, what to do when her friend is being bullied, when to disengage and not be an audience giving the bully power.

Kids at this age can also become very performance oriented, worried about how teachers and peers are judging them, whether it’s sports or academic. Because of this pressure, Miller says kids need really good coping skills. Talk to your child about dealing with frustration, persisting toward a goal when the continued on next page ››

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Mitzvah Market magazine

outcome isn’t perfect immediately, and dealing with feelings of embarrassment or humiliation in front of peers when he doesn’t first succeed.

Middle School

Explore morals and ethics. In middle school, kids’ moral and ethical development begins, and awareness starts to shift from “me and my accomplishments to an awareness of one’s membership in a larger community and humanity,” Lee says. “So parents exploring those topics with their middleschoolers helps support their efforts to develop this larger vision and to formulate their own values.”

Your Source for Ideas & Inspiration

Talk and listen. “I think a critical aspect of being a middleschool parent is keeping the lines of communication open,” Miller says. At this age, kids are in the throes of puberty, and part of it is parental pushback and pushing boundaries.

So talk about those boundaries and discuss why they are important, she says. “Kids are learning and caring more about social justice as it relates to the world and as it relates to them, and so they want to know why.”

When you are open with your child, she will come to you on her own time. You may not talk about little issues, “but when the big issues come up, they come to you, not somebody else,” Miller adds.

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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Give your teen space to create an identity. “High-schoolers are really working hard at creating their own identity and independence, so sometimes they’re going to need more alone time and time with their friends and away from you. I think it’s a tough time to create independence when you are still dependent in a household,” Miller says; so allow your teen space to develop his self-identity.

Miller also suggests telling your teen stories from her childhood when she demonstrated strength and perseverance. “I think it’s really helpful because at the time when social pressure is at it’s height and they’re trying to figure out who they’re going to be in all of it, you want them to feel strong and feel like they can stand their ground if they need to,” she says.

While giving your teen space to cultivate independence, stay connected to him and keep the relationship strong.

“Parents can support their high-schooler’s development by thoughtfully thinking issues through with them, by encouraging the ability of their teen to think critically in their decision-making. If we can recognize that this is a time when kids naturally begin to differentiate themselves from other adults, often including their parents, then we can avoid taking it personally and arguing,” Lee advises. “This is a healthy development—a necessary part of formulating their own identities.”

As with most life skills, parents are their children’s first and main teachers. So to help your child build her emotional and social skills, you have to demonstrate and build these skills yourself. As Miller says, “Every human being can continue to hone their social and emotional competence.”

Religious Schools 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 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.

Holy Angels Regional School

1 Division St., Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org; mconnell@holyangelsregional.org Since 1923, Holy Angels Regional School has illuminated the hearts and minds of students through academic excellence and the values of the Catholic faith. Our mission is to provide each student the opportunity to grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically in an environment that is safe and caring. Children’s success is based on the collaboration of parents, pastors, teachers, and administration. We offer a rich curriculum with innovative special classes, after-school activities, an early childhood academic program, an advanced curriculum, and a unique campus setting. Give your children the advantage that lasts a lifetime!

Holy Angels Regional School Open House: Early Childhood Wednesday, October 25th, 5 - 7 pm • 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 St. Patchogue, NY 11772

www.holyangelsregional.org

St. Isidore School

515 Marcy Ave., Riverhead 631-727-1650 sisriverhead.com St. Isidore School provides educational opportunities that instruct students to have a sense of God’s love through liturgical, intellectual, and social experiences. The pre-K through eighth grade programs teach a faith-based academic curriculum with enrichment through fine arts, Spanish language education, technology instruction, and physical education. Eighth grade students take Regents exams in math and science. Our students are well prepared to succeed due to the rigorous academics and character building that take place in our faith-filled environment. Welcome Wednesday tours are available by appointment.

Before- and after-school care available.

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

www.LIspeech.com

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

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

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

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

An Extension of Your Family Scholarship • Integrity • Service • Pre-K through Grade 8 After School Activities • Before & After Care

Register for the 2017–2018 School Year, Grades Pre-K through Grade 8 St. Isidore School | Principal: Ms. Helen Anne Livingston 515 Marcy Ave Riverhead, NY 11901 | (631) 727-1650 | www.sisriverhead.com

LongIslandParent 25

OUTINGS: Randall’s Island

nymetroparents.com/outings

Explore Nature and Get in the Game Hit a hole-in-one, explore an urban farm, check out bee hotels, and more on Randall’s Island. ››

By Sabrina Sooknanan

Courtesy Randall’s Island Park Alliance

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Sabrina Sooknanan

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Vincent LaForet

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1 Hit a hole-in-one on the island’s 36-hole miniature-golf course. 2 Decorate pumpkins, enjoy live music, and watch the Randall’s Island Chef Showdown at the Harvest Festival. 3 The Urban Farm is an educational stop at which families can learn about sustainable gardening practices. 4 Randall’s Island contains more than 60 playing fields, so you can cheer on a local team or play ball. 5 Randall’s Island is home to six bee hotels.

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andall’s Island Park, a multifaceted public park covering most of a 480-acre island in the East River between East Harlem, the South Bronx, and Astoria, Queens, is home to a variety of facilities and natural areas for every member of the family to enjoy.

Farm in the City

The seasonal Urban Farm gives families the opportunity to plant, harvest, and compost. It offers lessons on sustainable gardening practices such as rainwater capture, soil fertility, pollination, and botany. Your family can see chickens, the only known rice paddies in New York, an apple orchard, greenhouses, and a berry patch.

Explore Themed Gardens

Check out five themed gardens created using native species and sustainable practices, including the Rock Garden and the Waters Edge Garden. The White Garden is composed of plants with flowers or foliate in various tones of white. The Hell Gate Wildflower Meadow provides food and shelter for insects, and the Freshwater Wetlands Wildflower Meadow contains unusual native plants. There are also six bee hotels on the island.

The park also has freshwater wetlands, a tidal salt marsh, an urban forest, and nearly 5 miles of coastal upland habitat. Bike or walk the almost 8 miles of pathways to catch a glimpse.

Play Sports (or Cheer on a Local Team)

Randall’s Island is home to more than 60 playing fields. Come out to play and enjoy a good game of soccer, softball, lacrosse, rugby, and more. Randall’s Island Park Alliance works to ensure the fields are available for NYC children and adult leagues and teams.

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

There’s also Icahn Stadium, a 400-meter running track used for local, national, and international track and field events.

Become the Next Tennis Star

The Sportime Tennis Center has 20 indoor and outdoor courts, a fitness center, locker rooms, a café, a pro shop, and more.

Programs, athletic training, and youth camps are available for all ages and levels.

Hit a Hole-in-One

The Golf Center includes an indoor-outdoor, two-tier driving range with 80 stalls, a 36-hole miniature-golf course, batting cages, golf lessons, and free Wi-Fi.

Celebrate the Harvest

In addition to the yoga, tours, birding, and outdoor movie nights on the island, the Harvest Festival on Oct. 15 will have live music, face painting, and pumpkins for kids to decorate, as well as the Randall’s Island Chef Showdown, during which three chefs will be judged on their creations using the Urban Farm’s harvest. Run the River 5K on Oct. 28 also includes a children’s fun run.

Want to Go?

Address: 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island Directions: Approximately a 45-minute drive from Huntington Hours: Park: daily, 5am-12am; Urban Farm: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm through Oct. 15 For more information: 212-830-7722 or randallsisland.org

Ideas When You Need Them:

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Turn the page for details on RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns: Garden of Gourds (No. 7 on our list).

OCTOBER

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EDITOR: KAREN DEMETER suffolkcal@davlermedia.com

CALENDAR

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Editor’s Hot Tickets

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Movers & Shakers

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We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

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Show Time!, Smarty Pants

Special Needs, Animal Lovers

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Must-Sees in NYC

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Crafty Kids, The Great Outdoors

Holiday Fun, Fun Fairs & Festivals

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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

‘Dream, Girl’

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 11, 7:30pm WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The stories of powerful female entrepreneurs and the dreams that have propelled their business.

WHY WE LOVE IT: An inspiring film for girls.

WANT TO GO? $16. 631-423-7611. cinemaartscentre.org.

‘Flip Fabrique’

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 14, 4pm WHERE: Staller Center - Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook AGES: 5 and older WHAT: These young acrobats learned their circus skills from Cirque du Soleil and Cirque Eloize.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Their tricks will take your breath away.

WANT TO GO? $20. 631-632-6000. stallercenter.com.

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Amusement Park FREE

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WHEN: Monday, Oct. 16, 7-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Design your own amusement park using paper, plates, pom poms, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A fun way to take on an engineering challenge.

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

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

4

Pumpkin Carver at Stew Leonard’s FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 21, 10am-4pm WHERE: Stew Leonard’s Farmingdale, 261 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale AGES: All WHAT: Lenny Calvin, former contestant on season 6 of Food Network’s Halloween Wars, creates spooky scenes on pumpkins.

WHY WE LOVE IT: You’ll be amazed at elaborate carvings using clay tools and X-Acto knives.

WANT TO GO? 516-962-8210. stewleonards.com/farmingdale.

Bats, Barnacles & Broomsticks Halloween Party

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 28, 10am-4pm WHERE: Long Island Aquarium, 431 E. Main St., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Children gather treats throughout the aquarium and can watch a costume parade for the penguins.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Children in costumes will get half off admission with a paying adult.

WANT TO GO? $29; $22 children ages 3-13; free for children younger than 3. 631-208-9200. longislandaquarium.com.

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‘Squabble in the Castle’

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WHEN: Oct. 14-28, Saturdays, 2pm WHERE: BayWay Arts Center, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: 3-12 WHAT: On Halloween night, a group of teenage friends

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

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travel to a Hollywood movie set haunted by three monsters intent on driving away the film’s stars.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This zany mystery has plenty of adventure and laughs.

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

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RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns: Garden of Gourds

WHEN: Oct. 6-29, see website for dates, 6-10:30pm WHERE: Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury AGES: All WHAT: Come see 5,000 hand-carved illuminated jack-o’-lanterns creatively arranged along a scenic walking path and set to a musical score designed to bring out the fall spirit in visitors of all ages.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s artistically jaw-dropping and ghoulishly fun!

WANT TO GO? $26; $22 children ages 3-12 and seniors; free for children 2 and younger. 818-639-8981. therise.org.

‘Sue Ology and the (Possibly) Haunted House’

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WHEN: Oct. 14-29, Saturdays, 3pm; Sundays, 1pm WHERE: ThinkBIG! Theater Arts, 42 S. Ocean Ave., Patchogue AGES: 5-8 WHAT: When Sue Ology moves with her family into a supposedly haunted house, she must use her love of science to keep her kid brothers from getting scared.

WHY WE LOVE IT: After each show, audience members can try out each of the science experiments that Sue uses during the show.

WANT TO GO? $15. 631-307-4042. thinkbigtheaterarts.org.

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The Travelin’ Trunk Show

WHEN: Oct. 1-31, Saturday-Sunday, 11am WHERE: ThinkBIG! Theater Arts, 42 S. Ocean Ave., Patchogue AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Through music, sound effects, and costumed play, help create a performance that’s never the same show twice.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This is Long Island’s only episodic children’s show.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 additional adult. 631-307-4042. thinkbigtheaterarts.org.

27th Annual Halloween Festival FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2pm WHERE: Stony Brook Village, 111 Main St., Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Activities include pumpkin painting, games, crafts, and a scarecrow competition.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Children can trick or treat in the shops.

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

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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.

Vamos a la Fiesta! (Let’s Go to the Party!) FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 8, 2-3pm WHERE: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with games, stories, and more.

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

Trunk or Treat FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 21, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Decorate the trunk of your car and pass out treats or dress in costume and travel from trunk to trunk to gather goodies. Registration required.

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

Boo Bash Family Fun Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 28, 1-3pm WHERE: Smith Haven Mall, 313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Face painting, balloon animals, arts and crafts, and child ID kits.

Goodie bags to the first 200 children.

WANT TO GO? 631-724-8066.

KIDHITZ Halloween Party FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 31, 11am-6pm WHERE: KIDHITZ, 304 Main St., Huntington AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children receive candy as well as sing karaoke on a “rockstar” stage.

They can try different instruments and learn to record their very own song.

WANT TO GO? 631-470-9788. kidzhitz.biz.

Free Ice Cream on Halloween FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 31, 9am-8pm WHERE: Stew Leonard’s, 261 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children who come to the store in their costumes on Halloween receive a free small ice cream.

WANT TO GO? 516-962-8210. stewleonards.com/farmingdale. ››

LongIslandParent 29

‘Ciao Professore!’

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 7:30pm WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 9 and older WHAT: An elementary school teacher from northern Italy is sent by mistake to an impoverished town in the Naples region of southern Italy.

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

‘The Dark Crystal’

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 26, 7:30pm WHERE: Cinema Arts Centre, 423 Park Ave., Huntington AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Jen, an elf-like “Gelfling,” is on a quest to restore balance to his alien world by returning a lost shard to a powerful but broken gem.

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

‘Cinderella’

SHOW TIME! Ultimate Elvis: The Aloha Hawaii Concert

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 6, 8pm WHERE: The Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main St., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Justin Shandor brings Suffolk Theater a special Aloha Hawaii concert featuring Elvis’s greatest hits from “Jailhouse Rock” to “Hound Dog.” WANT TO GO? $45 and up. 631-727-4343. suffolktheater.com.

Salon Series Pianist: Fei-Fei Dong

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 6, 6pm WHERE: Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill AGES: All WHAT: Chinese pianist Fei-Fei Dong is a winner of the Concert Artists Guild Competition and a top finalist at the 14th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.

WANT TO GO? $25; $10 children and students. 631-283-2118. parrishart.org.

‘To Spy or Not to Spy: That is the Question...’

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7, 1pm and 2:30pm WHERE: Brewster House, 18 Runs Road, East Setauket AGES: All WHAT: Experience the creation of the Culper Spy Ring. Performance presented by the Youth Corps Theater Troupe, a teen volunteer group dedicated to stewardship projects in history and ecology.

WANT TO GO? $4; $2 for children younger than 12. 631-751-2244. stonybrookvillage.com.

‘Tuesdays with Morrie’

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 20, 8pm WHERE: The Suffolk Theater, 118 E. Main St., Riverhead AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Mitch Albom, an accomplished journalist reunites with Morrie Schwartz, his former college professor who is battling Lou Gehrig’s Disease. What starts as a simple visit turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class in the meaning of life.

WANT TO GO? $49 and up. 631-727-4343. suffolktheater.com.

Halloween Family Day with Magic Mike

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 22, 1pm WHERE: Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Audience participation is encouraged in this magic show.

WANT TO GO? $9. 631-427-5240. waltwhitman.org.

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Through Oct. 29: Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 10:30am WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport AGES: All WHAT: In the classic fairy tale, poor Cinderella is endlessly taunted by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters and not allowed to attend the Royal Ball.

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

Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’

WHEN: Through Oct. 29: Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 11am WHERE: Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The award-winning animated film and stage play comes to life in this romantic and beloved take on the classic fairy tale.

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

SMARTY PANTS Celebrate Ship in a Bottle Day

WHEN: Through Oct. 1: Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Build or draw your own miniature ship to fit in a bottle to take the sea.

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

Viva La Vida! Frida Kahlo FREE

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 2, 3-4pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Celebrate one of Mexico’s most famous artists, Frida Kahlo, who painted the story of her life with spectacular imagery.

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

Family Fun Night FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 4, 5-7pm WHERE: Long Island Whole Child Academy, 175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville AGES: All

Exploration Day for Columbus Day

CityBound Must-Sees in

Courtesy Summer on the Hudson

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 9, 1-3pm WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Did you know whalers were world explorers? Stop by self-serve stations to create multicultural crafts inspired by global journeys.

WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

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Build a Biome

WHEN: Oct. 7-9, Saturday-Monday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Recycle water bottles and grow something green to help keep the atmosphere clean.

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

Barry Ritter

WHAT: Families and children can learn about the school. Visit the Makers’ Space, Aviation Central, and meet the faculty.

WANT TO GO? 347-668-3676. liwholechild.org.

5th Annual Lego® Building Block Contest & Exhibit

Whip Up the Wind

WHEN: Oct. 14-15, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Measure the wind speed with simple machines and construct your own anemometer to measure the wind speed on our deck.

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

Get swept up by the playful spirit of medieval times.

Hither and Yon! Let your kids go medieval for the day at the Medieval Festival at Fort Tryon Park. Aside from costumes, bountiful cuisine, and courtly gestures (jesters, too!), the child-friendly offerings include magic and puppet shows, juggling lessons, and arts and crafts. There will even be a joust between four knights on horseback to conclude the afternoon. Oct. 1, 11:30am-6pm. Age: All. FREE. Fort Tryon Park, 741 Fort Washington Ave., Washington Heights. 212-795-1600. whidc.org.

Meg Banks

Silly Sea Stars

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 19, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Learn about sea stars, hear a story, and make a sea star to take home. Snack included.

WANT TO GO? $12; $4 each sibling. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

States of Matter Sea Creatures

WHEN: Oct. 21-22, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Witness a chemical reaction that will inflate a balloon, and transform the balloon into your very own creature.

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

Early Childhood Education Open Houses FREE

WHEN: Oct. 22-28, daily, see website for times WHERE: Catholic Schools Week, Multiple locations in Nassau and Suffolk counties AGES: 3-5 WHAT: The Catholic Elementary Schools open their Early Childhood centers up to meet prospective new families. Their safe and loving environment, certified teachers, and colorful classrooms make excellent places for children to begin a successful academic journey.

WANT TO GO? 516-678-5800. licatholicelementaryschools.org. ››

Courtesy the Laurie Berkner Band/Jayme Thornton

WHEN: Sept. 16-Oct. 15, daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Educational and Cultural Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook AGES: All WHAT: Grab your family, friends, scout troop, church group, or school club and start building to win prizes. Teams may be individuals or groups up to five members.

WANT TO GO? $4; $2 for children younger than 12. 631-751-2244. wmho.org.

New York kids will rock out at Laurie’s only NYC concert stop this fall!

Monster Boogie Catch award-winning and best-selling children’s music star Laurie Berkner in concert at the New York Society for Ethical Culture on the Upper West Side. The Laurie Berkner Band’s Monster Boogie Halloween Concert promises 90 minutes of your favorite Laurie Berkner Band songs. Little kids and the young elementary set will love spending a Saturday afternoon rocking to “Rocketship Run,” “The Airplane Song,” and “We Are The Dinosaurs.” Oct. 28, 2pm doors, 3pm show. Age: 4-8. $39 and up; free for children younger than 1 on adult’s lap. 2 W. 64th St., Upper West Side. nysec.org.

LongIslandParent 31

Skull Designer Teen Workshop

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 4-5pm WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Explore international cultures and design a colorful sugar skull.

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

Sculpture, Clay and Printmaking

CRAFTY KIDS Kindness Club, Crafts for a Cause FREE

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 2, 4pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Help make kindness rocks for the Rock Garden. Registration required.

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

Paper Molas FREE

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 6, 3-4pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Create a paper version of a Mola.

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

Jackson Pollock Family Drip Painting Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7, Saturdays, 10-11:30am WHERE: Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, 830 Springs Fireplace Road, East Hampton AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Tour the house and studio, followed by a drip painting workshop.

WANT TO GO? $35. 917-502-0790. imaginearted.com.

Autumn Leaf Scene FREE

WHEN: Oct. 4-25, Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30pm WHERE: Mini Monet, 64 Railroad Ave., Sayville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn the process of printmaking and make cute animal sculptures.

WANT TO GO? $22. 631-218-9797. minimonetsayville.com.

Mix Up Some Halloween Ooze

WHEN: Oct. 28-29, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Stir up a batch of colorful ooze just in time for Halloween.

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

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Walk Through History with Farmer and Revolutionary War Spy Abraham Woodhull WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Caroline Church and Cemetery, 1 Dyke Road, East Setauket AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Tour-goers are introduced to the woods, fields, ponds, and bays that tell the story of Long Island’s colonization and settlement.

WANT TO GO? $10. 631-751-3730. threevillagehistoricalsociety.org.

Light Keepers Behind the Scenes Tour

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 14, 9am WHERE: Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park parking field 5, Fire Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Includes a tour of the Lens Building. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $20. 631-661-4876. fireislandlighthouse.com.

The Great South Bay Audubon Society: From Plankton to Whales, Why Our Local Waters are Worth Protecting FREE

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 9, 3-4pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Listen to a story, then create an autumn scene using torn paper.

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

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 19, 7pm WHERE: Seatuck Environmental Center, 550 S. Bay Ave., Islip AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn about some marine life inhabiting the waters off Long Island.

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

Crafts by Heroines at the Helm

Fall Family Freshwater Fishing Festival

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 15, 1-2pm WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Explore how whaling wives broke social boundaries at home and at sea.

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

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 21, 10-4pm WHERE: Hempstead Lake State Park, Lake Side Drive, Hempstead AGES: All WHAT: Activities include pumpkin decorating and fly fishing demonstrations.

WANT TO GO? $8 parking fee. 631-321-3510. nysparks.com.

Family Paint Night

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 28, 7pm WHERE: Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park parking field 5, Fire Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Listen to tales of Fire Island. Dress warmly; bring blankets and flashlights.

WANT TO GO? 631-661-4876. fireislandlighthouse.com.

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 21, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: Mini Monet Art Studio, 64 Railroad Ave., Sayville AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Paint an owl in the moonlight.

WANT TO GO? $25. 631-218-9797. minimonetsayville.com.

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Legends of Fire Island FREE

MOVERS & SHAKERS Act As If Etiquette Classes

WHEN: Through Oct. 13: Fridays, 4pm WHERE: Carl’s Candies, 50 Main St., Northport AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn how to face everyday situations with integrity and confidence.

WANT TO GO? $25. 561-889-4464. actasifetiquette.com.

Kids Night Out: Monster Mash Bash

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 13, 6-9pm WHERE: ThinkBIG! Theater Arts, 42 S. Ocean Ave., Patchogue AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children play games, do crafts and activities, and enjoy dinner.

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 siblings. 631-307-4042. thinkbigtheaterarts.org.

Long Island Cares Food Truck FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 21, 9:30-11:30am WHERE: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The Long Island Cares-Harry Chapin Food Bank will provide free, ready-to-eat breakfast items for children.

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

Meditation for Children and Teens

WHEN: Oct. 8-29, Sundays, 11:30am-1pm WHERE: Kadampa Meditation Center Long Island, 282 New York Ave., Huntington AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Children and teens enjoy group classes in small meditation rooms.

WANT TO GO? $7 teenagers; $3 children. 631-549-1000. meditationonlongisland.org.

AZ Fitness

WHEN: Oct. 1-31, Saturdays, 8-9am WHERE: Heritage Trust, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: 13 and older WHAT: An intense body conditioning workout that is designed to target every muscle group in your body.

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

Mommy & Me FREE

WHEN: Oct. 18-Nov. 22, Wednesdays, 10-11am WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Bond with your child while exploring music, singing, arts and crafts, bubbles, parachute play, and more. Registration required.

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

Parents and Babies Meditation Class

WHEN: Through June 21: Thursdays, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Kadampa Meditation Center Long Island, 282 New York Ave., Huntington AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Relax and enjoy guided meditations with your baby.

WANT TO GO? $5. 631-549-1000. meditationonlongisland.org.

Sky Wars

WHEN: Through Dec. 26: Wednesdays, 4-9pm WHERE: Sky Zone Mount Sinai, 269 Route 25A, Mount Sinai AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Take part in epic Nerf battles on trampoline courts.

WANT TO GO? $22 for a 2-hour session. 631-938-1420. skyzone.com/mountsinai.

››

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Sky Zone Cares

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 2, 3-6pm WHERE: Sky Zone Deer Park, 111 Rodeo Drive, Deer Park AGES: All WHAT: Sky Zone dials down the music, increases the staff ratio, and limits capacity for children and adults with special needs.

WANT TO GO? $16 per hour. 631-392-2600. skyzone.com/deerpark.

Special Olympics Bowling at the All Star

WHEN: Through Dec. 1: Mondays, 5pm WHERE: The All Star, 96 Main Road, Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Bowlers with special needs are invited to bowl on the main lanes and experience the arcade with the latest games.

WANT TO GO? $10 for two games. 631-998-3565. theallstar.com.

ANIMAL LOVERS Paws on Parade

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7, 10:30am WHERE: Rogers Mansion, 17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton Village AGES: All WHAT: Participants stroll from the Rogers Mansion to the Bathing Corporation beach. Proceeds support the animals of the Southampton Animal Shelter and restoration programs at the Southampton Historical Museum.

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

SPECIAL NEEDS Ariella’s NY Friendship Circle: Teen Scene FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 22, 1:15-2:15pm WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Teens with special needs will be matched with teen volunteers.

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

Ariella’s NY Friendship Circle: Puppy Fun FREE

WHEN: Oct. 15-29, Sunday, 1:15-2pm WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Meet and cuddle rescue dogs. Children with special needs will be paired with teen volunteers.

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

Ariella’s NY Friendship Circle: Hip Hop Dance Class Session 1 FREE WHEN: Oct. 25-Dec. 6, Wednesdays, 5-5:45pm WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn how to dance hip-hop with an instructor. Children with special needs children will be matched with teen volunteers.

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

Ariella’s NY Friendship Circle: Zumba Session 1

WHEN: Sept. 25-Dec. 18, Mondays, 5:45-6:30pm WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Individuals with special needs will be paired with age-appropriate volunteers to help them be successful in the class and form friendships.

Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $15 per class. 631-351-8672. thechaicenter.com.

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October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Art from the Animal Kingdom: From Tame to Wild

WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 19, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Using inspiration from the juried art exhibit, create your own inspired masterpiece using different techniques and materials.

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

Halloween Painty Crafty Birdhouse Event for Kids

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 22, 5-6:30pm WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn how to paint and decoupage your birdhouse to make it creepy, spooky, and comfy for a little bird.

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

Egg Taking

WHEN: Oct. 21-29, Saturday-Sunday, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Learn how trout are reproduced at a hatchery. Staff will be available to answer questions.

WANT TO GO? $6; $4 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 516-692-6768. cshfha.org.

Dog Festival

WHEN: Oct. 28-29, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury AGES: All WHAT: The festival features exhibits by animal welfare organizations, vendors, and rescue groups. Sunday displays and activities 12-4pm, dog costume contest, and parade at 3pm.

WANT TO GO? $10; $8 seniors; $5 children ages 7-17; free for children younger than 7. 516-333-0048. oldwestburygardens.org.

HOLIDAY FUN Scary Stories in the Dark FREE

WHEN: Monday, Oct. 23, 5:30pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Bring a flashlight and a scary story to share, then decorate pumpkins. Registration required.

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

Trick or Treat at Stew Leonard’s FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 24, 5-6pm WHERE: Stew Leonard’s, 261 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children are invited to dress in their costumes and come to Stew Leonard’s to go trick-or-treating throughout the store.

WANT TO GO? 516-962-8210. stewleonards.com/farmingdale.

Fifth Annual Safe Halloween FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 5-10pm WHERE: St. Joseph’s College - Long Island, 155 W. Roe Blvd., Patchogue AGES: All WHAT: Kappa Beta Gamma hosts this annual event with games, arts and crafts, dancing, candy, and more. Bring non-perishable food donations.

WANT TO GO? 631-687-4593. sjcny.edu/long-island.

Haunted Hatchery

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 28, 2-5pm WHERE: Cold Spring Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Receive a sweet treat as you trick-or-treat through the hatchery and aquarium.

WANT TO GO? $6; $4 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 516-692-6768. cshfha.org.

Great Jack-O’-Lantern Sail

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 28, 3-6pm WHERE: Belmont Lake State Park, 625 Belmont Road, North Babylon AGES: All WHAT: Drop off your carved pumpkin and watch as the pumpkins sail across the lake. Bring a bag to collect “treats” from the various vendors.

WANT TO GO? $8 parking fee. 631-667-5055. nysparks.com.

‘A Kooky Spooky Halloween’

WHEN: Oct. 7-28, Saturdays, 11am WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson AGES: 3-8 WHAT: A merry musical about a ghost who’s afraid of the dark.

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

The Super Hero Within: A Halloween Event for Kids & Adults

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 29, 11:30am-3pm WHERE: Kadampa Meditation Center Long Island, 282 New York Ave., Huntington AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The day includes meditation, games, pumpkin carving, and more.

WANT TO GO? $7 teenagers; $3 children. 631-549-1000. meditationonlongisland.org.

Boo-Riffic Stories FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 31, 6:30pm WHERE: Westhampton Free Library, 7 Library Ave., Westhampton Beach AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Make a craft and hear “spooky stories.” Registration required.

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

FAIRS & FESTIVALS Fall Into Fun Carnival

WHEN: Through Oct. 1: Thursday, 6-10pm; Friday, 6-11pm; Saturday, 12-11pm; Sunday, 12-7pm WHERE: Heritage Park, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: All WHAT: There will be rides, games, and food to kick off the fall season.

WANT TO GO? $22 and up. 631-384-8900. msheritagetrust.org.

Fall Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: Cold Spring Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Kids fishing, a petting zoo, a pumpkin patch, castle bouncer, and more.

WANT TO GO? $6; $4 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 516-692-6768. cshfha.org.

Halloween & Psychic Faire

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 14, 11am-6pm WHERE: The Community Space at The Fellowship, 109 Browns Road, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: For children there will be a haunted house, live animals, costume parade, and more. Adults can take part in psychic readings and other mystical activities.

WANT TO GO? $15; $12 children ages 13-18; $5 children ages 6-12; free for children younger than 6. 631-427-9547. uufh.org.

More Than Pink Health & Wellness Expo FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 14, 12-6pm WHERE: Smith Haven Mall, 313 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove AGES: All WHAT: There will be more than 20 health and wellness vendors.

WANT TO GO? 631-724-8066.

White Post Farms Fall Festival

WHEN: Oct. 7-29, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: White Post Farms, 250 Old Country Road, Melville AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy hayrides, stage shows, bouncers, food and farm animals.

WANT TO GO? $21.17. 631-351-9373. whitepostfarms.com.

Wail-ing Boo-seum & Festival

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 29, 11am-3pm WHERE: Whaling Museum and Education Center, 279 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Meet an assortment of live critters and see museum exhibits come to life with costumed characters.

WANT TO GO? $5; $15 children. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Coming up next month: STARTING NOV. 4: The Great Turkey Chase at BayWay Arts Center, East Islip NOV. 11: The Martial Artists and Acrobats of China at the Staller Center for the Arts, Stony Brook NOV. 25: Tree Trimming Event at the Fire Island Lighthouse, Captree Island

LongIslandParent 35

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Pick Your Own Pumpkins ››

Research by Lindsay Roussin

You can paint them, carve them, bake with them, and decorate with them! This fall, get out and pick your own pumpkins, then playfully master them into crafts or treats! Many pumpkin patches offer fun autumn activities, such as hayrides, corn mazes, and farm stands with fresh fruits, vegetables, and delicious pastries. Spooky or silly, picking your own pumpkin is definitely one thing: fun for the whole family.

As always, confirm details ahead of time.

Albert H. Schmitt Family Farms 6 Bagatelle Road, Dix Hills 631-549-1159; schmittsfamilyfarms.com Pick your own pumpkins Sept. 16 through October, daily, 9am-6pm. Fall festival featuring hayrides and a haunted maze on weekends, as well as a train ride, John Deere trike play area, duck races, and fire truck slides. Fall decorations for sale, as well as roasted corn, fresh baked pies, candy apples, mums, and ornamental kale.

Benner’s Farm 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, East Setauket 631-689-8172; bennersfarm.com Pick your own pumpkins through October, weekends, 12-4pm. Hayrides (including a haunted hayride), Big Swing, and farm animals. Select Saturdays and Sundays feature special guests, and Sundays feature live music. Admission: $8; $6 children (includes corn and hayrides). Harvest Festival: Oct. 9, 12-4pm.

Borellas Farm Stand 485 Edgewood Ave., Saint James 631-862-7330; borellasfarmstand.com U-pick pumpkins starting Sept. 30, weekends, 11am-5pm. Hayrides, snacks,

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corn maze, live music, and other activities.

Farm stand with homegrown fruits and vegetables. Free parking. Free admission for children younger than 3. Live music and tasting room available on weekends (Saturdays, 12-7pm; Sundays, 12-6pm).

Brightwaters Farms & Nursery 1624 Manatuck Blvd., Bay Shore 631-665-5411; brightwatersfarms.com U-pick pumpkins through Oct. 30, daily, 9am-5pm. Hayrides, inflatable rides, and a farm store with novelty decorations, apples, candy apples, and full concession stand on weekends only. Admission is charged on weekends and Columbus Day, and includes face painting, clown entertainment, animal viewing, and unlimited hay rides. The Fall Festival starts Sept. 24 with pumpkin fields, a beer festival, and live music.

F&W Schmitt’s Family Farm 26 Pinelawn Road, Melville 631-271-3276; schmittfarms.com Pick your own pumpkins and fall vegetables through October, daily, 9am5pm. Free hayrides. Seven-acre corn maze with admission. Country store on premises. Weekend and Columbus Day

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

activities include inflatable rides and food concessions. Haunted corn maze and haunted mansion Friday-Sunday through October.

Fairview Farm 69 Horsemill Lane, Bridgehampton (GPS: 69 Horsemill Road, Watermill) 631-537-6154; fairviewfarmatmecox.com Pick your own pumpkins, gourds, and squash through the second week of November, Thursday-Sunday, plus Monday holidays, 10am-6pm. Eight-acre corn maze. Admission: $12; $10 children ages 4-11; free for children younger than 4.

Greenland Family Farms 17155 County Road 48, Cutchogue 631-734-5791; greenlandfamilyfarms.com Pumpkin picking throughout October, daily, 9am-5pm. Hayrides by appointment only. Fall decorations, kites, statues, trees, bushes, and perennials for sale.

Harbes Family Farm 715 Sound Ave. Mattituck 631-298-0800; harbesfamilyfarm.com U-pick pumpkins through Nov. 1, 9am6pm. Apple picking on weekends (and Columbus Day), 9am-6pm. Hayrides weekends only, corn maze, pony rides, farm animals, and snacks available. Fall decorations for sale. Restrooms on-site.

Hank’s Pumpkintown 240 Montauk Highway, Watermill 631-726-4667; hankspumpkintown.com U-pick pumpkins and apples through October, daily, 9:30am-6pm. Three corn mazes, wagon rides, tractor rides, pedal cart racetrack, and more. New attractions include a giant chair for family photos, a wooden dairy barn play structure, and tractor seesaws. Maze Park and apple orchard are only open on weekends and school holidays. Admission to Maze Park: $13.

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

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Haunted Houses, Corn Mazes, and Pumpkin Activities ›› Research by Melissa Wickes

Tom Nycz/Historic Hudson Valley

Tom Nycz/Historic Hudson Valley

Whether you’re looking for something spooky or just outdoor fall fun this Halloween season, these haunted houses, corn mazes, pumpkin blazes, and autumn activities are sure to make this Halloween one to remember.

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze features more than 7,000 illuminated jack-o’-lanterns at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson.

Chamber of Horrors 1745 Express Drive N., Hauppauge 855-227-6384; chamberofhorrorsny.com Great for groups (you can buy tickets in advance for specific dates and times) and younger children: This haunted house offers family days, when costumed guides provide tours of the house with the lights on and without spooky noises. Bring your camera for a memorable post-tour photo with your guide!

Harbes Family Farm 715 Sound Ave., Mattituck 631-298-0800; harbesfamilyfarm.com Take part in new attractions for this season, including Jumbo Jumpers bounce pillows, an animatronic chicken show, sports zone, and of course everyone’s favorite hedge maze. This year’s theme is Gnomes.

The Haunted Mansion of Melville 26 Pinelawn Road, Melville 631-271-3276; schmittshaunt.com Those with young children can visit the daytime corn maze on Schmitt’s Family Farm; older kids who scare less easily should opt for Schmitt’s Haunt, which offers a mansion, stage show, and nighttime corn maze. All are haunted by a

doctor, who ‘lives’ at the farm and became possessed after he was given a book of ancient texts by a former patient.

Nassau County Bayville Scream Park 8 Bayville Ave., Bayville 516-624-7433; bayvillescreampark.com Amusement park enthusiasts will want to take advantage of unlimited one- and twoday passes to the scream park, featuring tamer versions of the park’s nighttime haunted houses. Other fun activities include the tombstone treasure hunt, storytelling, and Halloween arts and crafts.

Pumpkin Park at Adventureland 2245 Broad Hollow Road (Route 110), Farmingdale 631-694-6868; adventureland.us Sick of haunted houses? Visit Pumpkin Park Oct. 21-22 for haunted train rides instead: one for children of all ages, and a scarier version for teens and adults. In lieu of admission, this attraction accepts food, personal care items, and/or pet food donations to Helping Hands Foundation.

Bonus: Your kids can enjoy free trickor-treating in the park, and unlimited

admission bracelets to use on other rides during the day.

Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns’ Garden of Gourds 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury 516-252-3392; therise.org Returning for its sixth year at Old Westbury Gardens, this event features more than 5,000 hand-carved glowing pumpkins and live celebrity carving artists.

Follow the 1/3-mile-long jack-o’-lantern walking trail made extra festive with an original Halloween-themed musical score.

Look out for a 50-foot dragon comprised entirely of pumpkins, plus safari-themed creations at this year’s event.

Wantagh Halloween Haunted House 1632 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh 516-804-9047 In lieu of admission, this haunted house accepts food, personal care items, and/or pet food donations to Long Island Cares.

Come in costume for the haunted house; stay for the Halloween party and spook walk on haunted trails.

Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/haunted-houses

The Payoff of Teaching Kids Financial Literacy

››

Experts discuss how parents can establish skills from a young age to ensure kids will know how to handle their money. By Samantha Neudorf

T

hough teenagers may be successfully juggling AP classes, extracurricular activities, and standardized tests, they are failing at a vital subject necessary for life: financial literacy.

A study released by the Program for International Student Assessment in May found that 1 in 5 teenagers in the U.S. lacks basic financial literacy skills, which is approximately 22 percent of the country’s teenage population. PISA surveyed 15-year-olds from 15 countries to test how well they understand financial concepts, products, and risks, and the U.S. ranked seventh overall, while China secured first place, followed by Belgium and Canada.

Unfortunately, financial literacy skills are often not taught at school, so it is up to parents to equip their children with the knowledge and tools to be able to manage their money wisely.

These conversations should not just take place during high school either. Experts say financial literacy skills should be instilled from a young age—even as young as 3. Here, financial experts share their strategies for teaching kids money skills for life.

Ages 3-6

Learn your 1, 2, 3s. Your child may learn how to count by the time she is 3 years old and start to grasp the idea that you need 38

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

money to pay for items while shopping. Jean Chatzky, financial editor of NBC’s Today Show, says she had discussions about money with her kids when they were young. For example, she explained that one particular brand of orange juice was cheaper than another, so that’s why she bought it. “It’s just a running dialogue where you talk about money,” Chatzky says.

In learning that you need money to buy goods, this might also be the age your child understands how to count coins and dollars and may even begin to receive an allowance for doing chores.

Elementary School

Give cash rewards for chores. When your child reaches elementary school, he may begin to take on more chores, such as folding laundry and putting it away or feeding a pet, and receive an allowance in cash to be able to see money as a tangible asset.

This is a fundamental way to teach him how to earn and save money, and he will be able to physically see and count his cash.

Chatzky recommends having two different jars: one for saving and one for spending money. (Some experts recommend adding a third jar, for money to be given to charity.) “So much of our money these days is invisible with Venmo and direct deposit,”

Chatzky says. “It’s important that kids actually see and use money before transitioning into electronic spending.”

Differentiate between credit and debit cards. Though it may seem kids are too young to learn this, it is an opportune time to teach them the difference between credit and debit cards. Gregg Murset is the founder of BusyKid.com—an app to keep track of your child’s chores and allowance—and a certified financial planner based in Arizona. He says parents can create a teachable moment while waiting in line at a grocery store to compare the two types of cards. “That’s an easy way to teach them, and your cards are right there in your wallet,” Murset says.

Open a savings account for your child, and have her go with you to learn how to deposit money into the account. Roy Paul, executive director of Cents Ability—a New York City-based nonprofit dedicated to teaching students from low-income families financial literacy—expressed the importance of teaching kids how to save allowance. “It really helps them understand how to take that money and put it into an institution that will protect it,” Paul says. “That’s also a good time to explain how interest works, and that when you put this money into an account, it will grow over a period of time.”

Middle School

Get them involved. Middle school is the time when your child can learn about the value of real world items, such as the property value of your house and how much bills cost. This is also the age when he might receive his first debit card and learn how to deposit and withdraw money.

Discuss needs vs. wants. Have a conversation about discerning the difference between needs versus wants. Do you absolutely need a new pair of shoes or do you just want it? Asking questions like this establishes a foundation to be able to analyze whether spending hard-earned money on an item (especially material) is truly worth it.

Talk about saving for college. If your child wants to go to college, it is important for her to understand how expensive tuition will be and that saving for it should start now. “A lot of kids, poor and wealthy, do not really have an understanding of how you pay for college, from the savings that happens on the parents’ ends to taking out loans and borrowing money,” Paul says. This is also a good opportunity to talk to your child about loans—that they’re not free money and they have to be paid back with an interest rate.

High School

Have them start “adulting.” High school students will soon enough become full-fledged adults and should begin taking on more responsibilities. Many high school-aged kids may get their licenses, so this can be an opportunity to send them out to run errands at the grocery store, or even have them pay for gas or oil changes to get the experience of making everyday transactions independently.

Think about the big picture. Paul shared that Cents Ability teaches kids a 50-30-20 rule to manage their money. From each paycheck, 50 percent of it should go to absolute needs such as bills, rent, car insurance, etc.; 30 percent can go to miscellaneous items such as a vacation or clothes; and 20 percent should be saved in a bank account.

Make an investment. Stocks are an equity investment, and when you invest in one, there is a chance that it will yield a higher return over time. Murset advises teens buy stocks as a first step

in learning how to invest money, even if it is just $20. “The best learning is done by doing,” Murset says, “Just jump in and buy some [stocks] and start watching them grow.”

Speak with a professional together. It’s okay to ask for help when you do not know the answer to your child’s question. Paul recalls a time when his mother set up an appointment for the two of them to speak with her tax accountant to learn about interest rates for college. “If parents do not know the answers to these questions, they should not feel embarrassed about it,” Paul says.

“If you have someone who does your taxes every year, ask them to take a few extra minutes to explain these concepts to your kids.

Most of them are happy to do it.”

THE ALLOWANCE DEBATE While whether kids should receive an allowance at all is a debate in itself, parents who are pro-allowance typically fall between two sides of the spectrum. Some believe allowance should be earned by doing chores and others say it should just be given and it is up to the child to manage his own money.

There is even debate on whether kids should receive money electronically or as cold hard cash.

Gregg Murset, founder of BusyKid.com, is a proponent of the idea you have to do something in order to earn your money. “You need to challenge them by providing different opportunities for them to make money, and challenge them with these concepts we’ve been talking about: saving, sharing, and spending,” Murset says.

Murset’s app BusyKid allows parents to assign chores to their kids, and the kids can see how close they are to “payday” and decide how to budget their money. “It doesn’t make sense to give kids $20 at the end of the week when they just sit around and watch Netflix,” Murset says. “We need to teach kids what we do every day: We work, earn some money, save some, share some with charity or people we care about, and then spend the rest.”

Rather than using cash, Murset says kids should learn how to use debit cards or phones to pay because most forms of payment have shifted over to technology. “One thing that drives me nuts is when people say, ‘Kids don’t know how to balance a checkbook these days.’ Well, no one really uses checkbooks anymore,” Murset says. “We have to change our mindset and teach kids in a way that makes sense.”

Roy Paul, executive director of Cents Ability, agrees that kids should earn money through work, but should receive cash to be able to see their money in their hands. “We really want young people to turn into responsible adults to understand the concept of hard work and what they should get in return because those trickle down into fundamental beliefs about the workplace and to work hard for money,” Paul says.

However, Jean Chatzky, financial editor of the NBC’s Today Show, has a viewpoint that is more in the middle of these two ideologies and favors giving kids cash. She believes kids should not be paid for doing chores because she says they are tasks that should just get done without a monetary incentive. Instead, kids should be given money to buy things that parents no longer want to pay for, which will teach kids how to save and budget within reason. “You shouldn’t give them so much that they can buy as much as they want,” Chatzky says.

As with all things when it comes to raising kids, ultimately it is up to you whether your child receives allowance, for what, and how. Where do you stand on this debate?

LongIslandParent 39

Courtesy Stacey Follman

PREGNANCY AND INFANT LOSS AWARENESS MONTH

Photos of Aaron Follman and his mom, Stacey Follman, from his too-short life. Aaron died from a genetic disorder days shy of his 8-month birthday.

An Unimaginable Tragedy

››

Though local infant mortality rates are lower than the national average, more babies die in their first year than most of us expect. Here’s a look at this tragedy and what parents can do to reduce the risk. By Stacey Pfeffer

S

tacey Follman, a Westchester mom, had a healthy pregnancy, with everything progressing normally and as she and her doctors expected. But when her son Aaron Ross Follman was born on May 21, 2002, and taken to the neonatal intensive care unit immediately, she knew something obviously was wrong. Aaron had a seizure shortly after delivery and hardly moved or cried. It took the doctors 10 days to figure out he suffered from a rare congenital disorder called Zellweger Syndrome. The doctors expected Aaron to have a life expectancy of about 12 months. He died just a few days short of his 8-month birthday on Jan. 16, 2003.

Nothing can prepare parents for losing a baby. Follman believed Aaron would live longer despite being told he probably would die within a year. “We were buying him new pajamas because he was growing,” she says. “We had faith that he was going to live until the day he died.”

It’s a heartbreak that will never go away. Most parents thankfully do not have to face the horrors of losing a baby, and it’s difficult to imagine the pain endured by that small minority of parents who, like Follman, never see their babies make it to their 1st birthday.

Despite its advanced health care system, America still lags behind other industrialized nations in its infant mortality rate (IMR), 40

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

which is defined as “the death of a child under the age of 1— from birth through 364 days,” explains Deborah E. Campbell, M.D., the director of neonatology at The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in the Bronx. The reasons for this are complicated and varied, and with October designated as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, it’s a moment to try to understand why some babies die in the first year, how our area compares to the nation as a whole, and what parents can do to minimize the risk.

Understanding the Statistics

Experts break down the IMR into two categories: neonatal mortality, which occurs the first 28 days after birth, and post-neonatal mortality (29-364 days). “Most infant deaths take place in the neonatal period,” says Dr. Campbell, who lost a baby herself many years ago.

The IMR does not include miscarriages or stillbirths.

Although the U.S. is a developed nation, 25 other industrialized nations do a better job at keeping babies alive in the first year of life. While these statistics are startling for expectant parents, the relatively good news for New Yorkers is the IMR in New York City and the surrounding areas is at a historic low. In 2013, the most recent year IMR statistics are available, our area’s IMR averaged

nearly 30 percent lower than the overall U.S. rate of 6 deaths per 1,000 live births (see sidebar on p. 42 for details).

The three leading causes of infant death in our region were prematurity, birth defects or congenital diseases—such as Aaron’s Zellweger Syndrome—and cardiovascular disease. Other infant death causes include babies born to a mother with an underlying medical condition and babies who die from sudden infant death syndrome or accidental suffocation while sleeping, usually with other family members, Dr. Campbell explains.

Disparities in Infant Death Rates

Infant death rates vary greatly depending on the mother’s race and ethnicity. The infant mortality rate for African-American infants in the metropolitan area was 8.3 per 1,000 births versus a rate of 3.0 among white infants in 2013. Infant mortality rates were also higher for Puerto Ricans (4.8) and other Hispanics and Latinas (4.3). Infant mortality rates likewise differ by socioeconomic status, with high-poverty areas such as the South Bronx reporting 1.9 times greater rates—5.2 per 1,000 live births compared to 2.8 in higher-income places such as the Upper East Side or Scarsdale.

Dr. Campbell notes that years ago certain areas of Brooklyn had a much higher IMR but with gentrification those numbers have been dropping significantly.

David Bateman, M.D., an attending neonatologist and professor of pediatrics at Columbia University Medical Center, has been treating newborns for more than four decades. In the 1980s, he practiced at Harlem Hospital and witnessed firsthand how the trifecta of AIDS, crack, and syphilis in Harlem was wreaking havoc on the IMR rates in that neighborhood. “In the past 30 years, IMR in New York City has had a threefold drop,” Dr. Bateman says. “You can look at changes in medical care, you can look at access to medical care, but it is all about poverty and the changing demographics of NYC. Our IMR has been dropping because you don’t have the same concentration of desperately poor people in NYC that you used to.”

IMR tends to drop as doctors discover new ways to save infants’ lives, such as the increased availability of clean water in the first half of the 20th century and the advent of neonatal intensive care units in the 1960s and early ’70s. However, Dr. Bateman cautions, “until the social and economic problems are taken care of, the problem of high IMR is not going to go away.”

There have been many studies looking at the inequity of health care delivery and how that correlates with infant mortality. “There are still women who get late or no prenatal care or have trouble accessing prenatal care, particularly minority women,” Dr. Campbell says. While the teen pregnancy rate has dropped almost 50 percent in recent years, babies born to women younger than 20 have higher infant mortality rates and their mothers are less likely to have had prenatal care. On the flip side, many studies have shown that women with advanced maternal age (defined by doctors as older than 35) also have babies who are at a higher risk of infant mortality.

Other factors also play a role. Babies born to obese mothers, for instance, higheron infant rates,City as obesity can lead to Saving face money a mortality New York health problems in the mother such as hypertensive disorders or family day is easy! preeclampsia, putting her baby at a higher risk of complications for pre-term or low birth weight. And some experts believe assisted reproductive technology may play a role in infant mortality, especially when several embryos have been implanted, Dr. Campbell says.

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Minimizing the Risk of Infant Mortality

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While there is no way to eliminate the risk of infant death, pregnant women can take steps to minimize the danger, starting continued on next page ››

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with getting prenatal care; moms who do not receive prenatal care have babies that are at a higher risk of infant mortality. Doctors prescribe prenatal vitamins, recommend exercises and offer instruction on healthy pregnancy diets, and monitor the mom and baby to help ensure a successful pregnancy, delivery, and infancy.

In addition, tests during the prenatal period can pinpoint a fetus’ growth and show if there are any genetic defects or other problems in utero. Doctors are regularly developing more advanced tests that can screen for a multitude of genetic disorders. When Aaron Follman was born 15 years ago, there were no genetic tests for his disease, but today, with the help of genetic counseling, expectant parents can now test for that and many other congenital diseases.

Armed with this information, doctors can sometimes perform interventions in utero or soon after birth to help the baby, while parents can make informed decisions about whether to continue the pregnancy or how to care for the baby after birth.

As terrifying as it is to prepare for the worst, expectant parents should learn about the differences in NICUs and what types of services are offered at different hospitals in the area. NICUs are rated on levels from 1-4, with Level 1 offering basic newborn care for healthy infants and Level 2 offering advanced newborn care for babies born at 32 weeks or more or those recovering from more serious conditions. Levels 3 and 4 are for the most complex cases, with Level 3 providing care for babies born at less than 32 weeks who may require access to pediatric sub-specialists or babies who are born with critical illnesses. Level 4 NICUs provide the most acute care. These nurseries are located in hospitals that can provide surgical repair of complex congenital or acquired conditions. If the delivery is expected to be complicated or the baby is determined to be high-risk, having access to a level 3 or 4 NICU is key.

Once a baby is born, doctors obviously do everything they can to keep her healthy, and a lot of medical research focuses on keeping babies alive in this neonatal period. Parents can also take steps to maintain their baby’s overall health, including getting children immunized on schedule, experts say.

Ensuring a safe sleep environment is also essential, as many babies die during their first year because of SIDS or suffocation while sleeping. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents follow the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, On Back, In a Crib.

That translates to having babies share a room with their parents if possible, but not in the same bed. And babies should always be put to sleep on their backs.

‘I Don’t Want Aaron to be Forgotten’

For those who have endured the loss of a baby, the grieving process varies from individual to individual. Family, friends, and community members are left to try to offer some comfort to those parents; however, even the best-intentioned efforts can sometimes cause the mourning parents pain and leave them feeling lonely.

“Our society is very uncomfortable with baby loss, so people express their sympathy with platitudes such as, ‘You are young, you can have another kid,’ which really minimizes the loss,” says Marianne Walsh, a grief counselor at the Maggie Rose Perinatal Bereavement Program at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco. Dr. Campbell echoes that sentiment, saying she often hears people say to the parents, “At least the baby didn’t live long—you didn’t have time to get too attached.”

Current research on grief shows there are four stages bereaved parents generally face, Walsh says: (1) Accepting the death, (2) working through the feelings of pain and grief, (3) adjusting to life without their beloved child, and (4) continuing a bond with their 42

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

baby, which often happens by memorializing their lost loved one, whether it be through a ritual or by joining or starting a group.

Follman decided to take that last route after Aaron died. To raise awareness of the disease that killed him, she created a nonprofit called the Aaron Ross Foundation (zellweger-syndrome.org).

“I want people to know about Zellweger Syndrome and I want Aaron’s name to live on and for our nonprofit to outlive me,” Follman says. “I don’t want Aaron to be forgotten.”

The process of memorializing or honoring a deceased baby has changed dramatically during recent years with the help of social media and groups such as Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, a nonprofit that provides professional-quality photographers free of charge to grieving parents to take photos of their child prior to the funeral. This remembrance photography can be a very powerful part of the healing process for grieving parents.

The grieving process is not a linear progression, Walsh says, and the needs of the bereaved parents will fluctuate over time. “I often use the analogy of a roller coaster. After a while it [the grief] becomes like a kiddie roller coaster; the highs aren’t so high and the lows aren’t so low.” It is impossible to predict the duration of grieving from person to person. “Bereavement groups provide wrap-around support because when a baby dies the world stops for these families,” Walsh says.

Follman says she found it very difficult to be in a bereavement group with other parents who had lost older children. For her and her husband, individual counseling was a better option, and the doctors at Mount Sinai Hospital, where she delivered, were able to put them in touch with other couples who had babies with ZS. “They were the only ones who truly understood us,” she says.

After Aaron died, Follman says she felt very selfish for a long time. Despite knowing that Aaron had no quality of life, she wondered if she did the right thing by signing a “do not resuscitate” order. “In hindsight, I know I gave everything to my child. His whole life he knew people loved him,” she now says.

Dr. Campbell says many parents drift in and out of support groups, often showing an elevated need for help around birthdays, the anniversary of their due dates, or family holidays. “After the funeral, everyone is around but then the world wants everything to go back to normal,” she says. “People are worried to talk to the mother about it because they don’t want her to dwell on the death. But as a mother, you are going to think about that loss every single day. And then there comes a day that you don’t think about it and then you realize you are more upset, so you beat yourself up that you forgot about your baby.”

No matter how short a life the child lived, that time was still important and marks the life of a human being. “Having lost a child, even if it was a newborn or baby, still means you are a parent,” Dr. Campbell says. “You may not have that child with you physically in your arms anymore but you are still a parent and that child will always be in your head and in your heart.”

Stacey Pfeffer is a writer based in Chappaqua.

Local Infant Mortality Rates The following are IMR expressed per 1,000 live births in 2013, the most recent year statistics are available: Bronx: 5.1 Brooklyn: 3.6 Manhattan: 3.7 Nassau: 4.0 Queens: 4.2

Rockland County: 4.4 Staten Island: 3.8 Suffolk: 4.8 Westchester County: 4.7 United States overall: 6.0

Sources: NYC Department of Health; March of Dimes Perinatal Stats; health.ny.gov

Meet the Health Care

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

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

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Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, is owner and operator of Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. Along with her group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders (adults and children). Intensive feeding therapy for individuals who suffer from texture and consistency aversions, and FEES—Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing—are also offered. There is a total of seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies and offering evening and Saturday hours.

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

Dr. Kasnicki is a graduate of SUNY Downstate College of Medicine. She completed her pediatrics residency at New York University and is a board-certified pediatrician.

She has a special interest in caring for underserved populations, especially in managing the psychosocial and cultural concerns of immigrant families. She is fluent in Polish and is active in the local community.

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

Donna M. Charbonneau is the executive director of Building Blocks Developmental Preschool. BBDPS offers a range of programs and services to children from infancy through age 5. Currently staffed with more than 100 teachers, therapists, and paraprofessionals, including registered nurses as well as psychologists, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists, a physical therapist, and a developmental pediatrician. Early Intervention services are provided for children younger than 3, who have developmental delays.

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

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

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

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

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

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

LongIslandParent 43

Conquering Bake Sales

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Gluten-free, nut-free, vegan—with variety of dietary needs becoming more common, baking treats for your kid’s class can be a minefield. Here’s how to win the battle. By April Peveteaux

I

t’s hard enough to prepare food for your own family with all of their “I can’t eat anything with green stuff on it,” and “Oh, I didn’t tell you? I’m a ‘porkaterian’ now” bulls**t. Add in a few other kids to the mix, and it’s downright terrifying. So, it makes sense to just forget about this whole baking for others thing and move on. I get it.

If you’re like me, you mostly ignore any and all emails that come from your child’s school for this reason, and many other good ones. You can only read about the latest pinkeye breakout so many times before you embrace the philosophy of, “Let Go and Let God.” And this is how I have mostly avoided providing baked goods for five-plus years of elementary school events! Apparently, God doesn’t want me baking for kindergarteners. Understood.

But I did reconsider my no-baking policy once I learned about a newly diagnosed celiac in our community. I realized that if I didn’t provide some gluten-free chocolate chip cookies, no one would.

Except for his parents, of course, but they were probably too busy freaking out about letting their little dude eat in public, much less trying to find a great gluten-free, nut-free, kosher recipe for shortbread.

As I began to hear about more and more kids with food allergies and intolerances, I knew that a bake sale without options would be a very sad bake sale, indeed. All of a sudden, I wasn’t the only one walking by the rows of bento box-shaped cookies and luscious pieces of chocolate cake, crying because I would never know the feel of a pecan tart pie crust crunching all around my mouth ever again. The exclusive bake sale treats were no longer only upsetting to me—an adult who, in theory, can tolerate the pain of flaky pastry denial. I knew at that point that I must think about the children. THE CHILDREN!!!! Of course, I also wanted to eat a lemon bar that wouldn’t make me poop my pants, but if I lost control of my bowels, at least it wouldn’t be in front of a group of 8-year-old boys during gym class. Probably. From that point on, I vowed to re-create allergy-friendly treats to offer up 44

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

whenever I was called upon to do so. This, my friends, is easier said than done. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t do it, though.

How to Not Screw Up

There are many ways to screw up in the kitchen, and, believe me, I’ve done most of them. We’re still trying to get that chocolate-barbecue sauce off my kitchen ceiling. It becomes very crucial to avoid screwing up, however, when you’re handling food for kids who could react badly to an allergen. Crucial. While you’re preparing these allergy-free recipes, please keep the following in mind.

Wrap It for Safety You must prepare allergy-free food on clean surfaces and in clean pots, pans, and baking sheets. You absolutely cannot boil some gluten-free pasta for your mac and cheese in the same pot you just used to boil up your gluten-filled pasta. You cannot bake an egg- and dairy-free cookie on a sheet that has been habitually used to bake cookies chock-full of eggs and dairy without covering it with parchment or scrubbing it so hard you probably scrub off the nonstick surface. You can scrub pots and pans within an inch of their lives, but if they have even a crumb of allergen left over, it’s possible it will stick on your nice, allergy-free dough. You also cannot bake nutfilled cookies on the same sheet as their nutless brothers and sisters.

This may sound like a pain, so I have two words that will make it much easier to keep things clean and separate: aluminum foil. Oh, and two more: parchment paper.

Before you bake, cover your bakeware with aluminum foil, or parchment paper for the cookies that stick. Before you grill, place aluminum foil down on the grill that will hold your allergy-free options. If you don’t have a cutting board, or very clean surface to prepare your safe food, put down aluminum foil or parchment pa-

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds work in the same manner as flaxseeds, and are truly gelatinous. My only issue is if you’re creating something light in color, you can get a little black spot action in the final No Holding Hands or PDA product. Both work well, so go with what you like.

When you’re preparing food, keep the allergens far away from the Follow Your Heart VeganEgg: What’s great about this all allerallergen-free ingredients. If they get mixed up, your allergen-free gen-free product is that you can even cook this up and make an omdish is toast. Don’t use the same cutting board for fish that you do elet if you’ve been craving one since you had to go egg-free. for chicken, if you have a fish-allergic guest. Also, don’t think fish Baking Soda and Vinegar: I’ve used the baking-soda-and-vinegar is a great ingredient for a school bake sale or a 6-year-old birthday combo in a pinch and, while it didn’t seem to work as well as the magic party. That’s a mistake you’ll only make once. flax meal, it’s definitely serviceable in your baked goods. Combine 1 Additionally, don’t let all this hard work keeping surfaces bleached teaspoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of vinegar (watch, as it will and ingredients separate go to waste by serving up all of your safe food bubble up), allow to dissolve, and you have a substitute for 1 egg. on a platter alongside the dangerous food. Continue to keep these foods separate, using separate cooking pots, pans, and sheets, as well Gluten Substitutes as separate utensils. Consciously uncouple the allergy-laden from the Cup4Cup: For baking, I’ve always loved Cup4Cup multi-purpose gluallergy-free foods to make sure that the end result is safe for all. ten-free flour, but it will not work as a flour in the dairy-free recipes, as Whew! That’s a lot, but if you remember to keep your allerone of the ingredients is milk powder. I also like to use all-purpose flours gy-safe treats safe from the first time you pick up the ingredients so I don’t have to experiment with xanthan gum or add anything else to until they are safely delivered to the sale, you’ll make a heck of a lot the mix. It makes it easier, and that makes me happier. of kiddos happy, as well as their very anxious parents. It’s like farm Better Batter: Luckily, my other favorite gluten-free, all-purpose to table, but without the hipster element. flour is dairy-free (and every other allergen-free, plus kosher), and it A much more exhaustive list of allergy-friendly products lives in also gives fantastic results. It’s become one of my go-tos now that I’m the resource section of [Bake Sales are My B*tch], but if you want experimenting with gluten- and dairy-free recipes, but it is sadly harder to get started baking right away, here are a few items to consider to find than many other popular brands. I recommend ordering online stocking in your pantry before you put on your allergen-free apron. and stocking up if you’re going to be the bake-sale queen.

(Okay, that’s not a real thing, so don’t panic. Any old apron withKing Arthur Gluten-Free All-Purpose: Another great glutenout clumps of food on it will do.) and dairy-free option, I also love to use King Arthur’s recipes. It’s a solid choice, and I almost always have a box in my cupboard.

Butter Substitutes Almond Meal: Only if you know there are no nut allergies Earth Balance: This vegan butter alternative comes in many forms, around, almond meal makes for some delicious cakes. The texture but you’ll most likely be picking up the baking sticks. If you’re is lovely and moist, and the slight nutty flavor can enhance any cake making a soy-free treat, do not buy the buttery baking sticks, but recipe. You do have to experiment with it, unlike the all-purpose instead pick up the soy-free version. flours above, but if you’re 100-percent sure that you don’t need to Nutiva Organic Vegan Superfood Shortening: This soy-free, keep it tree nut-free, have some fun with the almond flour family. dairy-free, gluten-free, GMO (genetically modified organism)-free, fair-trade product is a combination of red palm oil and virgin coco- Milk Substitutes nut oil. You can find a million different coconut oils on the market, The trouble with milk substitutes in baking is the lack of eight but Nutiva’s combination with palm oil makes it a better option for main allergen-free options if (and this is a pretty big if) you have a baking when you’re avoiding the eight main allergens. coconut problem. While rice milk fits the bill, it is not as rich and Crisco Vegetable Shortening, Butter Flavor: I grew up using Crisco appropriate for baking as coconut milk cream and coconut milk butter flavor in so many family recipes that I naturally tried it first when I are. Soy milk and nut milks are also great substitutes, but have the went about experimenting with dairy-free baked goods. While my fam- obvious problem of being in the eight main allergen family. ily probably used Crisco as a butter substitute for completely different, I generally recommend coconut cream and coconut milk regardless, now-defunct reasons (it was the 1980s, and butter was the enemy), it as a coconut allergy as part of a tree-nut allergy is so incredibly rare. And does hold up in recipes pretty well. Crisco contains soy, along with artiwhen it comes to baked goods, coconut milk does have the best result ficial flavors, so if you’re not on board with either of those, you should in a recipe. Still, be sure you know the specifics of any allergies kids may probably try Spectrum organic all-vegetable shortening. The main ingre- have before you start to mix up your eight main allergen-free brownies. dient in both vegetable shortening brands is also palm oil.

One more note for the bake-sale bakers: If you’re preparing food for a party, bake sale, or anywhere that you will be dropping off Egg Substitutes and not sticking around to explain what’s up with your cookies, Ener-G Egg Replacer: The OG of egg replacement, Ener-G has label your treats. Let the dairy-free know if something is safe to been helping out egg-free bakers for a very long time. If you’re eat by being very clear with your packaging. After all, what’s the going to be baking egg-free a lot, I would suggest grabbing a box point of making allergy-friendly treats if no one knows about it? and going to town. Since it’s also eight main allergen-free, it’s a (Note to parents of the severely allergic: You still don’t want to risk good substitute for the kids. homemade treats from someone’s kitchen unless you’ve had a very Golden Flax Meal: Flax meal has become my go-to for baking detailed convo and know without a doubt that they’re safe for your without eggs. You combine 1 tablespoon of flax meal with 3 tablekiddo. But you knew that already, I’m sure.) spoons of water per egg called for in the recipe. The key is in letting it Now, stock up on your cellophane and decorative twine...it’s sit for a little while before you use it. (I say at least 10 minutes, but if bake sale time! you have a half-hour to wait, do that for optimum egglike properties.)

You can either buy the golden flaxseeds and grind them in a coffee Reprinted from Bake Sales are My B*tch by April Peveteaux.

Copyright (c) 2016 by April Peveteaux. By permission of grinder when you’re ready to use them, or buy the meal and keep it Rodale Books. Available wherever books are sold. sealed up tight so it will retain its freshness. per. Your new best friend is aluminum foil. Get to know him, along with his BFF, parchment paper.

LongIslandParent 45

Professional services

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

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

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF SUFFOLK COUNTY: DR. MIKE IOANNOU 2171 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 145, Commack 631-486-6364 3237 Route 112, Building 6, Suite 7B, Medford 631-320-0880 supermolar.com mikeioannou@hotmail.com Dr. Michael Ioannou, a native of Suffolk County, strives to make visiting the dentist a fun experience, all while providing exceptional dental care. He uses excellent behavioral management approaches, a child-friendly environment (TV and cartoons in all treatment rooms), and he sings to the patients!

SUFFOLK PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 8 Medical Drive, Port Jefferson Station 631-928-8585 6144 Route 25 A, Suite D20, Wading River 631-929-7575 750 Roanoke Ave., Riverhead 631-727-8585 suffolkpediatricdentistry.com infoportjeff@suffolkpediatricdentistry.com For 40 years, we have provided dental care that’s friendly, gentle, and compassionate. We provide preventive and comprehensive treatment for infants,

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

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

RMG SPEECH PATHOLOGY RACHEAL MCINNES, M.A., C.C.C.S.L.P., SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST 775 Park Ave., Suite 255-4, Huntington 631-372-4142 rmgtherapy.com

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Racheal Gardega McInnes, speech-language pathologist, is founder of RMG Speech Pathology. Treatment areas include expressive/receptive language disorders, articulation disorders, fluency, voice disorders, auditory processing disorders, and feeding and swallowing disorders.

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

FOOD & NUTRITION THE FOOD WIZARD FOR KIDS Serving all of Long Island 631-606-2680 thefoodwizardforkids.com info@thefoodwizardforkids.com Making food and nutrition fun for the whole family. Available for speaking engagements. Also provides workshops for kids, family night dinners, and healthy weight counseling.

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

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

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

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

DR. ELLEN T RICHER, EDUCATION CLINICIAN & COUNSELOR Convenient Long Island locations 347-668-3676 etrdream@aol.com We co-develop strategies to improve executive functioning, sensory processing, and social cognition challenges, and provide enrichment opportunities to engage and motivate highly capable yet underachieving children.

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

SPECIAL NEEDS EMPLOYMENT STRATEGIC STAFFING WORKS Brooklyn and Long Island locations 631-649-6573 strategicstaffingworks.com strategicstaffingworks@gmail.com Offers workshops designed to help parents, family, and friends aid people with diverse abilities in their search for employment and life-fulfilling volunteer opportunities.

THERAPY & COUNSELORS LOUIS E. MORA, PH.D., PSYCHOLOGIST P.C. 70 Glen Cove Road, Suite 201, Roslyn Heights 347-740-5690 lmoraphd.com Dr. Mora specializes in psychological testing. This includes neuropsychological testing, giftedness examinations, and evaluating for the presence of psychological disorders.

DR. ELLEN T RICHER, EDUCATION CLINICIAN & COUNSELOR Convenient Long Island locations 347-668-3676 etrdream@aol.com We co-develop strategies to improve executive functioning, sensory process-

ing, and social cognition challenges, and provide enrichment opportunities to engage and motivate highly capable yet underachieving children.

TUTORS & TEST PREP ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITY: ST. PATRICK TUTORING CENTER St. Patrick Church, Smithtown 631-724-1261 stpatsyouth.com spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick Tutoring Center is here to assist your learner from kindergarten to 12th grades with Catholic Entrance Exam Prep, SAT, Regents, or daily schoolwork.

ST. PATRICK YOUTH COMMUNITY: YOUTH ENRICHMENT LEARNING CENTER St. Patrick Church, Smithtown 631-724-1261 stpatsyouth.com spyouth@optonline.net St. Patrick Youth Enrichment and Learning Center provides programs for your child ages 1½ years to sixth grade.

A faith-based program offers a loving, caring environment.

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.

VILLAGE EAST GIFTED: ENRICHMENT CENTER FOR THE GIFTED LEARNER Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted provides after-school enrichment and private tutoring. Enriching every qualified, gifted child. We are also a John Hopkins CTY info and SAT testing center.

OPEN HOUSES 2017 Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

Multiple Locations 516-678-5800 licatholicelementaryschools.org Catholic Schools Week: Oct. 22-28. The Catholic elementary schools open their early childhood centers to meet prospective new families.

See website for specific locations and times.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfishhatchery.org; info@cshfishhatchery.org Fall Festival and Open House Oct. 7 from 10am-4pm (rain date Oct. 14). Fishing, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, bounce house, live animal encounters, and environmental exhibitors. Fun for the whole family!

Holy Angels Regional School

1 Division St., Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org; mconnell@holyangelsregional.org Join us for our Early Childhood Open House on Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 5-7pm.

Sappo School

40 Kings Park Road, Commack 631-736-2146 sapposchool.com; info@sapposchool.com Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 9:30am for our Fall Open House. Learn about our school and the expansion of our program to include additional opportunities for our students.

rces Are you looking for resou l? fal this ily fam & fun for your

RESOURCES ARTICLES

Find everything you need, faster at

NYMetroParents.com LongIslandParent 47

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT THE FOOD WIZARD FOR KIDS Serving all of Long Island 631-606-2680 thefoodwizardforkids.com info@thefoodwizardforkids.com Try a healthy twist on birthday parties!

The Food Wizard for Kids provides birthday party workshops for younger children. Kids discover new foods through fun activities including taste tests and art projects.

MAD SCIENCE OF LONG ISLAND Call for locations throughout Long Island: 855-264-1672 madscienceli.com info@madscienceli.com A Mad Scientist brings all the necessary equipment to you. Party packages include invitations and a take-home activity each child makes.

Optional grand finales include Bubbling Potions, Rockets, and Cotton Candy.

PARTY PLACES ART BUZZ KIDS 35 Jackson Ave., Syosset 516-802-4954 syosset@wineanddesign.com 21 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre 516-442-0330 rvc.ny@wineanddesign.com wineanddesign.com Spark your child’s creativity and imagination! Art Buzz Kids offers family-friendly painting and craft classes for children of all ages. Our birthday party themes are designed to inspire and excite all children.

BounceU Farmingdale was voted “Best of Long Island” for Children’s Party Place and Family Amusement Center.

We provide the ideal combination of inflatable structures, a clean environment, incredible customer service, and non-stop excitement in a private party atmosphere.

CELEBRATIONS IN THE KITCHEN 63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen.com celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com The most unique, fun-filled, joyous event! We have created a true baking experience for everyone to enjoy, including cookie baking and decorating, cupcakes “from scratch,” muffin and scone baking, and brownies. Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen. com for more information on parties.

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

GIVE IT YOUR ALL SPORTS 2127 Lakeland Ave., Ronkonkoma 631-676-4412 giveityourallsports.com We deliver high-energy activities coupled with on-field coaching that is age-appropriate. Let ‘em have a ball with a Give It Your All Sports Party!

@ PLAY AMUSEMENTS 229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com Have your next party at the newly renovated @ Play Amusements!

It offers 30,000 square feet of fun including 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, roller coaster, a carousel, disco room, and laser tag!

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!

BOUNCEU FARMINGDALE 101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com

KEY TO MY ART INC. 10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 keytomyart.com At Key to My Art, our children’s paint

48

October 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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

parties include all supplies from aprons to easels. The guest of honor picks the theme, we provide the instruction, and each guest leaves with a finished painting!

KIDZHITZ 304 Main St., Huntington 631-470-9788 kidzhitz.biz kidzhitz@gmail.com RockStar Parties at KIDZHITZ are like no other party. Children record their own song in our state-of-the-art recording studio, design their own CD cover, and perform for each other on our Main Street location stage.

LONG ISLAND AQUARIUM & EXHIBITION CENTER 431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH20 (426) 631-208-9200 x186 longislandaquarium.com Have an Aquatic Birthday Party at the Long Island Aquarium! Take a private tour of the Aquarium, receive preferential treatment at our Submarine Simulator and Discovery Tower rides, and special seating at our Sea Lion Show!

MY GYM CHILDREN’S FITNESS CENTER 1320 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook 631-751-KIDS (5437) mgym.com/stonybrook 128 W. JerichoTurnpike, Huntington Station 631-427-GYMS (4967) mygym.com/huntingtonstation My Gym parties include exclusive use of the gym, including a zip line, rock wall, trampoline, trapeze, climbing structures, and slides. Instructors lead your guests through action-packed activities of your choice from Gazillion Bubbles to sports, with multiple theme options.

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

PICASSO KIDZ, CREATIVE ART STUDIO FOR CHILDREN 72 Broadway, Greenlawn

631-261-5500 picassokidz.com picassokidzart@gmail.com Picasso Kidz puts the “ART” in pARTy! Birthdays at Picasso Kidz are truly unique and memorable. We have many packages and options to choose from for ages 2-17.

SAFARI ADVENTURE 1074 Pulaski St., Riverhead 631-727-4386 thesafariadventure.com dan@thesafariadventure.com Safari Adventure is Long Island’s premier family fun center and birthday party place. Fun for the whole family with inflatables, four-level soft playground, arcade, interactive floor games, and a full café!

SMITHTOWN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 2 E. Main St., Smithtown 631-724-3700 smithtownpac.org boxoffice@smithtownpac.org Treat your child to a different type of birthday party this year! Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts presents great shows for kids, and a private room for your gathering.

Cast members will meet with your party to sign autographs and pose for pictures.

THE VILLAGE ARTIST 630 New York Ave., Huntington 631-271-0715 thevillageartist.com lori@thevillageartist.com Create art for your next birthday party!

The Village Artist Fine Arts Center is proud to host your next birthday party.

Enjoy a fun and creative time with your family and friends including an art project of your choice.

WHAT’S COOKING? 30 E. Main St., Oyster Bay 516-922-COOK (2665) whatscookingny.com info@whatscookingny.com Martha Stewart, Newsday, and News 12 boast What’s Cooking? is a No. 1 Choice Birthday Party Place where children can explore their creativity in culinary arts. Funtastic cookie, cupcake, Cupcake Wars, chocolate, or pizza party can be customized in our spacious party room making your party memorable!

AD INDEX

NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY Metropolitan area!

BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES

EDUCATION

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING

@ Play Amusement.................................................................9

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol.................................................19

Gateway Playhouse...............................................................15

A Couple of Puppets..............................................................41 BounceU - Farmingdale......................................................... 11 Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery.........................................19 Food Wizard for Kids (The)...................................................17 Key to My Art.........................................................................17 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center..............................7

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool......................19, 43 Diocese of RVC.....................................................................52

PLAY SPACES

Holy Angels Regional School................................................25

@ Play Amusement.................................................................9

Law Offices of Brad H Rosken.............................................. 11

BounceU - Farmingdale........................................................ 11

LIU Center for Gifted Youth...................................................19

Picasso Kidz..........................................................................19

Sappo School........................................................................15

Rubie’s Costume Company.....................................................2

St. Isidore Catholic Elementary School.................................25

Spin DJ Academy @ 202 RVC Group LLC...........................33

Village East Gifted.................................................................13

RELIGIOUS Diocese of RVC.....................................................................52 Holy Angels Regional School................................................25 St. Isidore Catholic Elementary School.................................25

CAMP Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery.........................................19 Key to My Art.........................................................................17 LIU Center for Gifted Youth...................................................19 Picasso Kidz..........................................................................19 Village East Gifted.................................................................13

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS @ Play Amusement.................................................................9

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol.................................................19 BounceU - Farmingdale......................................................... 11 Food Wizard for Kids (The)...................................................17 Key to My Art.........................................................................17 LIU Center for Gifted Youth...................................................19 Picasso Kidz..........................................................................19

Big Apple Circus.................................................................... 11

Gateway Playhouse...............................................................15 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center..............................7 Oyster Fest..............................................................................9

HEALTH Allied Physicians Group.........................................................43

Spin DJ Academy @ 202 RVC Group LLC...........................33

C.I.I.T. Center (The)...........................................................7, 43

Village East Gifted.................................................................13

Fairy LiceMothers..................................................................41 Food Wizard for Kids (The)...................................................17

DEVELOPMENTAL

Rubie’s Costume Company.....................................................2

A Couple of Puppets..............................................................41

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery.........................................19 CLASSES

RETAIL

SPECIAL EVENTS Big Apple Circus.................................................................... 11 Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center..............................7 Oyster Fest..............................................................................9 Rubie’s Costume Company.....................................................2

SPECIAL NEEDS Allied Physicians Group.........................................................43 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool......................19, 43 C.I.I.T. Center (The)...........................................................7, 43 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.........................25, 43 Law Offices of Brad H Rosken.............................................. 11

Louis Mora, Ph.D...................................................................43

Louis Mora, Ph.D...................................................................43

Northwell-Cohen Children Clinical Mag...................................5

Pediatric Dentistry ofSuffolk County..................................3, 43

Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County.................................3, 43

Pediatric Immediate Care..................................................7, 43

Pediatric Immediate Care..................................................7, 43

Sappo School........................................................................15

Louis Mora, Ph.D...................................................................43

MUSIC

THEATER

Sappo School........................................................................15

Spin DJ Academy @ 202 RVC Group LLC...........................33

Gateway Playhouse...............................................................15

Act As If Etiquette & Protocol.................................................19 Allied Physicians Group.........................................................43 Building Blocks Developmental Preschool......................19, 43 C.I.I.T. Center (The)...........................................................7, 43 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.........................25, 43

LongIslandParent 49

VOICES

Stop With the Trophies Already! ››

One mom offers a plea for kids to be awarded trophies only when they’ve accomplished something that deserves the recognition.

By Karen J. Bannan

M

y kids are 12 and 8. They have been playing sports since they were little. They aren’t superstars, and yet we have more than 20 trophies sitting in our home. Trophies that take up room, gather dust, and are pretty much meaningless.

We’ve got trophies for kindergarten Catholic Youth Organization basketball, our beach club’s swim team, the National PTA Reflections contest, a first-grade soccer tournament, and cheerleading. Last month the girls and I cleaned their rooms. All those trophies ended up sitting in the hallway of our upstairs. The girls didn’t want them cluttering up their shelves. “Mommy,” they said, “we don’t need them.” No kidding, I thought. No kidding.

I have been against giving out trophies since we got the first shiny plastic and stone monstrosity complete with a little soccer ball. (That one was for participating in a local peewee soccer program that didn’t even have games!) My biggest complaint has always been that trophies should be for real accomplishments. Big wins. Amazing feats of prowess, academic or athletic. You don’t need a trophy to commemorate 10 weeks of kindergarten sports skills classes!

I’m not the only one who feels this way. Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison created a firestorm when he posted on Instagram about taking away trophies his little ones got. The photo was accompanied by this post: “I came home to find out that my boys received two trophies for nothing, participation trophies! While I am very proud of my boys for everything they do and will encourage them till the day I die, these

trophies will be given back until they EARN a real trophy. I’m sorry I’m not sorry for believing that everything in life should be earned and I’m not about to raise two boys to be men by making them believe that they are entitled to something just because they tried their best… cause sometimes your best is not enough, and that should drive you to want to do better…not cry and whine until somebody gives you something to shut u up and keep you happy. #harrisonfamilyvalues” I totally agree and wish others did, but alas, I am in the minority. For example, a few years ago I ran our elementary school’s Reflections program and I championed phasing out the trophies. We could give out ribbons and medals, I said. It would be cheaper, I said. It didn’t fly. The trophies were ordered, and I silently cursed the fact that I would have another four of them in my house. (My kids tend to do well at those types of contests.)

But I digress, as usual. When my kids handed over their shiny loot I took to the Internet to find out if I could recycle them.

Yes, I discovered, there are companies that will recycle trophies, but I couldn’t find any close by. Today I posted on Facebook and a friend sent me a link about a place way out east that takes them and refurbishes them for charities. It’s about an hour away from my home, but it may be worth the trip just to get them out of my sight.

In the meantime, I know I am blessed that my kids are able to be involved with sports and contests to earn trophies at all. There are many children who don’t have the same opportunities.

Does that earn me a medal?

Karen J. Bannan is a Long Island writer who blogs at naturalaspossiblemom.com, where this post first appeared.

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SLOW DOWN!

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

How to Manage Kids’ Schedules

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Events

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Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

Where-To Guide: Berry Picking

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Dinosaur Fun

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LI Parent ECEW Back Cover Oct 2017:Layout 1 9/21/17 9:40 AM Page 1

Early Childhood Education Week • O c tober 22-28

Early Childhood Education is the foundation for success. 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.