Long Island Parent (Suffolk) January 2017 by City Guide NY

LongIslandParent SUFFOLK EDITION

JANUARY 2017

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Homework

Helpful?

Welcoming Everyone

Inside the debate Plus: Find the right school for your child

The surprising religious diversity at Catholic schools

Good Failure Teaching kids grit and resilience

WHERE TO GO SKIING

â&#x20AC;¢

SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN WINTERTIME

SU M M E R GROW T H SPU RT Usdan is an award-winning day camp for students ages 4-18 to explore the arts, sports, digital media and more on our Long Island campus in the woods.

SUMMER CAMP FOR THE ARTS

Be part of Summer 2017. Priority enrollment ends 1/31. FOR $100 OFF NEW STUDENT TUITION PROMO CODE: SUFFOLK 2USE January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

1 844-789-5824 | USDAN.ORG #USDAN

LongIslandParent

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

January 2017 ››

Features

14 The Benefits of Failure Why teaching kids to handle setbacks with grit and perseverance is important 16 Finding Summer Fun in the Depths of Winter Six ways to bring warm-weather fun to the coldest season

18 Is Homework Necessary? Inside the debate about whether kids really need homework—and what one school is doing instead 20 Not of the Faith How local Catholic schools have integrated students from all types of religious backgrounds 40 Great for Leftovers Three recipes, plus a leftover twist for each

42 Why Are Boys Failing? How current norms are contributing to boys falling behind—in school and life

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 11 NYMP Q&A: Ilana Wiles, creator of MommyShorts.com, talks average parenting 50 Voices: Is My Babysitter Doing a Better Job Than Me?

Fun & Activities

12 DIY Corner: Make your own bird feeders 13 Media Matters: What Your Kids Should Watch 26 Outing: Queens Museum 29 Family Activities Calendar 38 Where-To Guide: Ski & Snowboard

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

Directories

22 44 45 46 47 48 49

Schools and Educational Services Meet the Director Professional Services Party Central Open Houses Meet the Health Care Professional Advertisers’ Index

ON THE COVER ›› 14 Good Failure 16 Summer Activities in Wintertime 18 Is Homework Helpful? facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

20 Welcoming Everyone 38 Where to Go Skiing Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!

DEMI

E X YEARS - OF E CE LLENC

LongIslandParent

JANUARY 2017 • Vol.8 • No.8

EDITOR’S NOTE

Education in the Classroom & Beyond

remember when my oldest child started getting homework. It was a shock to the system, hers and ours, intruding on her post-school play time and, to the extent we needed to help her, on our quiet time with the kids. Since then, as the volume and difficulty of her homework has increased, I’ve become so grateful and proud to see how diligent and responsible she is at it. Still, there are nights where she remembers well past bedtime about a forgotten assignment or is flummoxed by a particularly difficult task. I sometimes wonder what worth there is in this, and as Katelin Walling reports (p. 18), I am not alone in asking that question. There is a hot debate in education circles about whether to ditch homework altogether, and some schools, including some in our region, have done exactly that. Speaking of frustration, I am sure you’re familiar with this scene: A child melts into tears and anger, unable to be consoled, because of his inability to complete a task, whether it’s getting that ball into the basket or building a block tower taller than he is. It breaks our hearts to see our kids so angry and hurt, and we naturally try to assure them of their skills and worth. But setbacks can be useful to children, especially if we help channel their feelings in a productive direction, helping them see failures as motivation to try again and harder and conquer the task. We spoke with experts who offer advice on how to teach kids this sort of grit and resilience (p. 14), skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. If you want to get your kids to pick themselves up again after they fall down—literally and metaphorically—you could bring them to a ski slope and teach them the sport. Find great spots for skiing and snowboarding around the Northeast (p. 38). And for winter fun closer to home, get great tips on recapturing the joys of summer even when the weather is freezing (p. 16). For my family, dead-of-winter visits to the Bronx zoo are a cherished tradition. For many of us, January is the time to think of September—specifically, where our kids will go to school next year. For some parents, the right choice might sound surprising on the surface: choosing a Catholic school even though they are not Catholic. Samantha Neudorf investigates this phenomenon and explains what’s behind the decision to send kids to a religious school when they are not of the faith (p. 20). And if you are seeking a school for your child, check out our education directory to find tons of great choices (p. 22). Stay warm, and have a great January! Michael Kress Editorial Director

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ASSISTANT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERNS: Jonathan Perry, Kathryn Sheridan

ADVERTISING SALES Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 Jeunesse Jackson, Linda Pierce Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Ellen Klein Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Randi Shulman, Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Ellen Klein, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager, Dani Pollack Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Lisa Herlihy, Karen Shapiro To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Ray C. Guédez, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan

PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jiyon Son DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Barbara Byrd

Davler Media Group CEO: David L. Miller General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 nymetroparents.com davlermedia.com

Join us for an afternoon of family fun at the first-ever Westchester Parents Day! We’re putting together a program sure to put a smile on your kids’ faces—while helping you learn valuable information. Kids will enjoy entertainment, tasty treats, crafts, a dance party, and raffles and giveaways, while parents can get to know local child-focused businesses, including camps, after-school activities, and birthday party venues. Westchester Parents Day will be held 12-3pm on Sunday, Feb. 5, at the Crown Plaza, 66 Hale Ave., White Plains. Go to westchesterparentsday.com to learn more and register. 6

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

nybarbatmitzvah.com

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

20 17 ?

LongIslandParent

NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

nymetroparents.com/np-sp

Who: Long Island Lutheran Day School What’s New: A program for its youngest students called Curious Kids. It was designed for infants and toddlers in the mommy-and-me classes, in which students learn and explore by participating in activities designed to enhance motor skills, expressive and receptive language, basic readiness, and more developmental and educational techniques. “As a community of faith, we believe that providing our youth with a well-rounded education is necessary to developing their hearts and their minds,” says Kate V. Lloyd, LuDay’s marketing and associate admissions director. Want More Info: 106 Vernon Valley Road, East Northport; 631-754-4424; admissions@ludaynorthport.org; luday.luhi.onmessagestaging.com

Courtesy Long Island Lutheran Day School

New Program for Students at Local Lutheran Day School

Long Island Lutheran Day School teaches students from 2 years old through the fifth grade.

Who: Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island What’s New: Almost 800 new Chromebooks, which support the access to and use of “G Suite for Education.” G Suite provides a complete online environment for students to research and collaborate. Part of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, the 43 Catholic schools throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties aim to be places for students to learn and develop into intelligent, well-rounded, and faithful children. Gary Layton, the director of marketing and enrollment for the schools, calls them places “where timeless values meet cutting-edge technologies.” Want More Info: A series of open houses will take place during Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 29-Feb.4. Visit website for locations: licatholicelementaryschools.org.

Courtesy Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island

Innovative Technology Added to Area Classrooms

Almost 800 new Chromebooks have been added to Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island.

Who: The Long Island Whole Child Academy, School for Twice Exceptional Learning What’s New: A nonprofit private school for students in third through eighth grades who learn differently, which will welcome its first class in January while accepting applications through June. LIWCA aims to create a unique learning environment for students who are highly capable academically and also contend with social cognition, executive functioning and sensory processing challenges, anxiety, ADHD, or dyslexia. Teachings are personally tailored through project-based learning, a nontraditional environment, and approaching students individually. Children are encouraged to work in small groups when they are ready, with a student-to-staff ratio close to 1-to-1. Want More Info: St. Elizabeth’s Church, 175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville; 347-668-3676; liwholechild.org

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Ellen T. Richer

School for Students Who Learn Differently to Open in Melville

At Long Island Whole Child Academy, students learn through hands-on projects and real-life problems.

STRETCH

YOURSELF

IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE.

JOINER FEE 1/1 - 2/12

TERMS & CONDITIONS: NEW MEMBERS ONLY. MINORS (UNDER AGE 18) MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PARENT OR GUARDIAN DURING SIGN UP. PLEASE PRESENT A GOVERNMENT-ISSUED PHOTO ID DURING SIGN UP. OTHER RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. OFFER VALID 1/1/17 THROUGH 2/12/17. SCHOLARSHIPS / FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE.

• STRENGTH & CARDIO CENTER • FUNCTIONAL TRAINING • GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES • LAP SWIMMING • GYMNASIUMS • ACTIVE OLDER ADULT PROGRAMS • FAMILY ACTIVITIES • BUILD RELATIONSHIPS • STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY For more than a workout. For a better us.

YMCA OF LONG ISLAND 855.2YMCALI YMCALI.org BAY SHORE EAST HAMPTON GLEN COVE

HOLTSVILLE HUNTINGTON PATCHOGUE

Described by SKI Magazine as

“A True Family Mountain”

Where Midweek Skiing is

AFFordAble!

$25

Lift tickets Monday-friday (Excludes All Holiday Periods)

or Join Us for a Weekend! In addition to skiing we also offer:

TUbing

Enjoy 2 hours of screaming good fun for $20

Learn More at: www.Skibutternut.com

LongIslandParent

UOTABLES I was going to be a perfect stay-athome mom and enjoy every single moment teaching and encouraging my children. Then, I actually had my own kids, three of them, and that is when I fell off my unicorn and tumbled straight back to reality. —Barrie Bismark, in a post entitled “I’m Not the Mom I Thought (and Hoped) I Would Be,” on The Huffington Post: Parents.

in an instagram in an instagram Cal. Several days ago. In front of a nova that’s he’s completely enamored with. It has been parked on our block since the dawn of time. The owner is a complete mystery, but it does move for alternate side. (Posted by @megankellicraig, aka Megan C., who blogs at thebrooklyndoll.blogspot.com)

“He won’t do these things forever. These (nearly) three years of waking up every night or changing what feels like millions of diapers, will feel like a short moment in time come 30 years from now. And it’s then that I’ll miss the moments of walking into his dark room with me squinting my eyes half asleep to pick him up out of his crib and have him lay his head on my shoulder and fall quietly back to sleep. Or the funny faces we make to each other as I lay him on the ground to keep him occupied while I’m changing his diaper.” —Lauren Jimeson, in a post entitled “No Rush,” on her blog, SincerelyLauren.com.

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Having the time of their life! Letting go is scary but they both did plenty of times. #iceskating indoor is definitely the way to go! @chelseapiersnyc @kamikofficial #stepoutside (Posted by @gothamlove, aka Suzanne C., who blogs at gothamlove.com)

WORKING OUT AS A BUSY MOM “You can still move on to your kid’s theatrical debut at school if your lipstick, say, doesn’t make it through Pilates. But if your deodorant gives out? Yikes. You may miss the curtain call.” —Christina Vercelletto, in an article entitled “Hit the Gym Moms—and Look Great.” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/mom-fitness.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: GET OUTTA TOWN: Get great winter day trip suggestions at nymetroparents.com/winter-trips. GLIDE AND SLIDE: Find ice-skating rinks near you at nymetroparents.com/ice-skating. MORE WINTER FUN: See the top 100 winter activities in the New York metro area at nymetroparents.com/winter-activities. CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR: How to make resolutions kids can keep (nymetroparents.com/kid-resolutions)

NYMP Q&A

Here’s to the Average Parent ›› By Bethany Braun-Silva

Ilana Wiles is the creator of the successful parenting blog, MommyShorts.com. She recently wrote The Mommy Shorts Guide to Remarkably Average Parenting. What is an average parent? I think everyone is an average parent. And the reason I say remarkably average parenting, in my book, is because I think it should be an aspirational thing. The people who are striving to be a perfect parent or to do everything correctly are never going to get there. So once you accept there is no one correct way to do things, I think we can all feel much better about the parenting job we’re doing, which ultimately is much better for ourselves and our children. I think everybody is having the same experience, no matter what kind of parent you are. There are helicopter parents, attachment parents, free-range parents, and they all have children who are developing and going through the same things. They have tantrums, they need to be potty trained, they have accidents, they’re tough on a long road trip. Where does the pressure of being a perfect parent come from? I think a lot of it is due to social media. Even on Instagram, everybody posts these beautiful pictures of motherhood, and everybody is putting up their highlight reel and the reality is you’re taking, like, 50 pictures of your kids not being able to stand still and then the one where they’re both smiling is the one you’re posting. Which is totally normal and fine, but as we’re looking through our feeds and we’re seeing all these pictures of kids in these perfect scenarios and smiling, you make your own assumptions about what the rest of that person’s life or day looks like and you forget that you’re only seeing a very small piece of it. We can’t look at what people are posting on social media and think that represents real life, because people are posting the best versions of their life. It’s very healthy to talk about the realities of parenting so we don’t think that we’re alone in this and we’re the only ones who can’t get our kids to stand still for a picture. How do you incorporate humor into your everyday life? I think my kids are hilarious, and I think a lot of how you enjoy parenthood is using your pain as entertainment. If everything went according to plan, you wouldn’t have any good stories to tell. If you go on the plane and everything goes smoothly, that’s wonderful. If you go on the plane and everything goes awry, you have a really good story to tell. How do you determine how much to share on social media? I never want my kids to be embarrassed about anything I’m putting out there about them. I’m very cognizant of how things might make them look or if something is too personal. At the moment, I still feel like I’m able to talk about the struggles of parenthood or some of the things I’m dealing with and I feel like it’s all universal. So I have to figure out how to walk a line with being honest but not saying anything that might upset them or might be too personal.

DON’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT REPORT CARD GET HELP NOW! Our program offers:

Free consultation Comprehensive academic evaluation Personalized tutoring Highly qualified teachers Flexible payment options for all budgets

SAVE

100

WHEN YOU CALL BEFORE 2/28/17*

Tutoring

Reading and Phonics - Writing - Math - Study Skills - Algebra - Geometry Trigonometry - Calculus - Biology - Chemistry - ADHD support - More

Test prep

ACT - SAT - PSAT/NMSQT - AP - GED - ASVAB - High School Entrance Exams

Personalized Attention. Proven Results. MASSAPEQUA PARK

PLAINVIEW 516-681-0400

516-867-4041

BALDWIN

CARLE PLACE

BAY SHORE

LYNBROOK

EAST NORTHPORT

MANHASSET

SMITHTOWN

FLUSHING

PATCHOGUE

516-799-9500 631-968-5100 631-360-0422

516-568-1900 718-358-7900

631-462-8900

516-747-5600 516-365-4455

631-289-4900

1.800.CAN.LEARN www.HuntingtonHelps.com ©2017 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) are registered trademarks of the College Board. PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities endorses or was involved in the production of the program.*Offer valid for Academic Evaluation, new students only. Not valid with any other offer. HLC3132LI

LongIslandParent 11

DIY CORNER WINTER CRAFT

Feed the Birds

Invite winged friends to your yard this winter by making one of these bird feeders. Position the feeder in front of a window, and your kids will have an opportunity to become winter bird watchers, especially if they want to stay cozy inside with a cup of cocoa instead of braving the cold.

Bird Seed Ornaments These goodies are so pretty they’d brighten a tree even without the snow. Use walnuts, cranberries, and kumquats to form a garland to add a little extra cheer. Ingredients ¾ cup flour ½ cup water 1 packet unflavored gelatin 3 Tbsp. corn syrup 4 cup birdseed Directions 1. Mix ingredients together in a large bowl. 2. U se vegetable oil on a paper towel to coat the insides of the cookie cutters (or use vegetable spray); this will allow you to remove the ornaments from the cookie cutters more easily. 3. S pread waxed paper over your work area, then fill the insides of the cookie cutters with birdseed mixture, packing tightly. (We used circle and heart shapes.) 4. P oke a drinking straw through each ornament near the top to make a hole for hanging. 5. C arefully remove each ornament from the cookie cutter and set on waxed paper. Let dry for several hours.

6. Once the ornaments are dry, you can use peanut butter to decorate the rims and insides with other seeds. For example, spread a line of peanut butter around an outside rim, then press thistle onto the peanut butter. Or use peanut butter to create a heart shape atop a circle, and press in thistle and corn kernels. 7. Thread ribbon through the hole, and hang on a tree.

Bird Seed Wreath

Ground Bird Seed Feeder

Trace a bird outline in the snow, then fill the shape with different types of seed.

Bake bread dough in a doughnut shape, slather on peanut butter, and coat with seeds. A yummy dinner for the birds! Add a pretty bow to make it a decoration for the yard.

Projects and photos courtesy Lowe’s; for two more ways to feed the birds this winter, visit nymetroparents.com/birds.

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Media Matters: TV

What Your Kids Should Watch

Splash and Bubbles (PBS Kids)

Recommended Age: 3+

HHHH

Friendly fish introduce preschooler

s to ocean science

Dot. (Sprout)

Recommended Age: 5+

HHHHH

Recommended Age: 6+

HHHH

This charming series strikes the perf ect balance between life and tech . Milo Murphy’s Law (Disney XD)

An unlucky teen’s fortune lies in frien

dship and a positive outlook

MARS (National Geographic Channel)

Recommended Age: 12+

HHHHH

This outstanding Mars mission serie

s has suspenseful moments.

In Theaters Jan. 27: A Dog’s Purpose

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

Parents need to know that A Dog’s Purpose provides a bit of a twist on the standard talkinganimal movie. The story is narrated by a dog (voiced by Josh Gad), who begins his life as a golden retriever named Bailey whose best friend is a young boy named Ethan (Bryce Gheisar). Bailey remains loyally by Ethan’s side through his teenage years, even through Ethan’s first love (so expect some kissing and romance), until Bailey dies of old age—only to be reincarnated as a (female) German shepherd police dog. The dog continues to come back, living many lives as many different breeds. With each new human he—or she—lives with, the dog learns a little more about his purpose, until, years later, he returns to a familiar home and a familiar friend (Dennis Quaid). Although this movie will likely have emotional moments that might be too intense for sensitive younger kids—including the recurring death of a pet—for the most part it looks like a heartfelt family dramedy for all dog lovers.

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

Pediatric Immediate Care, PLLC Pediatric Urgent Care Where Kids Come First ® www.pediatricimmediatecare.com • CERTIFIED URGENT CARE CENTER

ART CLASSES FOR: Mommy & Me ages 2-3 Kids ages 4-12 Teens ages 13-17

Extraordinary Picassos

for Children with Special Needs PLUS… ADULT paint nights too! Nurturing children’s creativity & curiosity through the Painting, drawing, sculpting, printmaking, collage & more!

by Urgent Care Association of America

• PEDIATRIC SPECIALTY CARE Hematology • Oncology • Pediatric Psychology COMPLETE PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT CARE

OPEN 7 DAYS Including Holidays 8am - 11pm

• Rapid Laboratory Tests • EKG • Digital X-Ray • Ultrasonogram • IV Hydration • IM Medications • Attention Deficit Disorder • Developmental Test • IVA & IMPACT Test

Certified Concussion Center

• Minor Surgeries • Splints / Casts • Allergy Injections • Inhalation Therapy • Pulmonary Function Test • Computerized Vision Test • Hearing Tests • CPR Classes • Pharmacy Service & More

We Speak Your Language:

English, Polish, Russian, Spanish, & Turkish

FREE FLU SHOTS & ALL SHOTS

Kid Friendly • Walk-ins Welcome • Most Insurance Plans Accepted

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS LINDENHURST • SMITHTOWN • BROOKLYN

150 East Sunrise Hwy.

631-956-PEDS

1077 West Jericho Tpke.

631-864-PEDS

698 Manhattan Ave.

718-389-PEDS

LongIslandParent 13

The Benefits of Failure

››

Teaching kids to handle setbacks with grit and perseverance is more valuable than trying to help them avoid ever failing at anything. By Madeleine Burry

re you raising kids who can cope with setbacks? Does your child respond to obstacles by persevering—or by calling it quits? Lately, it may seem as if the concepts of grit and failure—specifically, how to have more of the former and deal productively with the latter—are everywhere, making them the buzzy parenting concepts of the moment. It’s hard to escape the headlines and books about the perils of allowing kids to grow up without failing. But as these ideas have entered the zeitgeist, it’s easy for them to assume a bumper sticker-like simplicity (Failure is great! Go grit!), cautions Richard Rende, Ph.D., and co-author of Raising Can-Do Kids: Giving Kids the Tools to Thrive in a Fast-Changing World. The reality is a bit more complicated. It’s not that failure is good; there is no need to root for your children to flounder and fail to achieve goals. But failure is inevitable; if you’ve lived, you’ve experienced setbacks and disappointments. That goes for everyone: Even our century’s big success stories, such as J.K. Rowling, Simone Biles, and Steve Jobs, have histories littered with rejection letters, torpedoed projects, bad reviews, and missed medals. And because failure is ever present, it’s important for your child to be able to respond appropriately. “Kids need practice failing so they can learn how to deal with it in both a practical and emotional way, and know how to move on from 14

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

failures,” says Ami Schwab, Ph.D., who specializes in child psychology and teaches parenting classes.

Help Kids Focus on Feedback—Not Failure

Carol Dweck, Ph.D., the author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, is known for her groundbreaking research into what she calls “fixed” and “growth” mindsets. In a fixed mindset, abilities and intelligence are set: Tanisha is so smart; Abby has a natural talent for math; Arjun is better at music than writing; Sean is a real artist! In this framework, failure becomes an endpoint. If you see yourself as “good” at math, a poor grade on an algebra test can feel devastating, as though you’ve reached the end of your abilities in math. Or, if you’ve always thought of yourself as “bad at math,” a poor grade acts as reinforcement. In a growth mindset, on the other hand, abilities are framed as something that can, well, grow—this transforms failure from debilitating to a “what’s next” moment. In this mindset, a poor grade indicates the need to study more or to seek tutoring. To foster a growth concept, align feedback toward effort: Tanisha studied hard for her math test; Connor’s not good at drawing realistic people yet; Abby’s practice before the piano recital paid off— she went from three missed notes last year to just two this year. Dr. Dweck believes mindset plays a powerful role in relationships, personality, and how a person’s life unfolds. “In one

world, failure is about having a setback. Getting a bad grade. Losing a tournament. Getting fired. Getting rejected. It means you’re not smart or talented,” Dr. Dweck writes. “In the other world, failure is about not growing. Not reaching for the things you value. It means you’re not fulfilling your potential. In one world, effort is a bad thing. It, like failure, means you’re not smart or talented. If you were, you wouldn’t need effort. In the other world, effort is what makes you smart or talented.”

Focusing on Your Own Response

Throughout your child’s life, there will be setbacks. Many times, the scale may seem small, especially for young kids—a missed goal; a broken toy; a poor grade in a topic that doesn’t come naturally—but from a developmental perspective, these moments are hugely important. The way you respond to these events, and, in turn, how your child processes them, will play an outsized role in your child’s personality and response to setbacks over a lifetime. Try these strategies to raise kids who can persevere past obstacles and process failures as feedback (and not dead ends): Phrase feedback right (and be cautious with your compliments). Given Dr. Dweck’s research, it’s clear that the way we speak to kids about their successes and failures has a huge impact in whether they view themselves as having core abilities, or whether they’re focused on effort and improvement. “Compliments can be negative for your child’s internal motivation and self-esteem,” says Dr. Schwab, a Bronx resident. Praise feels good, but when it’s for fixed qualities, it doesn’t foster your child’s esteem or sense of worth. Instead of saying, “Good job!” Dr. Schwab advises, ask your child, “Are you proud of yourself?” This allows kids to think through how they feel— proud or determined to do even better next time. Resist the temptation to smooth things over. Here’s a classic scene: A wheel has fallen off your child’s small truck, and she is wailing in dismay as a result. For parents, it can be tempting to fix the truck. After all, for us, that’s easy (and stops the tears handily). But doing so might not be doing your child any favors. “Remember who owns the problem, and try to avoid bailing your child out,” Dr. Schwab says. Instead, offer empathy (Isn’t it frustrating that the wheel fell off!) and ask helpful questions geared toward your child’s age and understanding (What do you want to do? How can we fix this? Do you think that wheel can be reattached?) “This strategy gives kids the confidence and ability to fix problems on their own and encourages them to think for themselves,” Dr. Schwab says. Don’t keep your own failures hidden. Think about how you share stories of your own life with your children. Do you talk only about your successes? Here, as in every other area of your life, be a role model to your children: Share your triumphs in work and life, but don’t shield your child from the process—the successful meeting that was the result of devoting a full weekend to creating and practicing a presentation, for instance. Share the negative feedback and disappointments as well, along with how you overcame those challenges. Encourage kids to be intelligent risk takers. Dr. Rende recommends parents “let kids do things where they might not be the stars” and encourage kids to take risks. Doing this helps inculcate a growth mindset in your child—and encourages them to not settle for only doing tasks where they’ll perform well. “Failure is an important part of the learning process,” Dr. Schwab says. He recommends parents get in the habit of

tacking on the word “yet” to negative statements. If your child is crying that he can’t fix that truck’s wheel, you might subtly inspire him by responding, “You can’t fix that truck’s wheel— yet!” Practice and perseverance alone can’t make a person run as fast as Usain Bolt, Dr. Schwab points out, but that doesn’t mean it won’t lead to improvements. In everyday life—unlike the Olympics—there’s more value to trying and improving than to chasing after the gold medal. Separate out external markers. In a child’s world, there are a lot of definitive moments of evaluation: grades, competitions, sports victories, and defeats. Perhaps more than adults, children have to deal with rankings and concrete feedback. Dr. Rende describes all of these evaluations as being a statement in a moment of time, and encourages parents to keep kids focused on the process, instead of the result. “We really want to eliminate the word failure, but we also want to eliminate the word success. It’s best for kids to focus on process and being in control of their learning,” he says. Ask children to think about what they learned from the experience, and encourage them to be open to feedback beyond the grade. As parents, it can be painful to think of your child experiencing pain, frustration, or failure. But research tells us allowing your child to fail—and then helping them think through how to respond to this setback—allows kids to build the framework they need to learn from the moment, and get insight into how to move on from failure in the future. Madeleine Burry is a Brooklyn-based freelance writer and editor, covering everything from parenting to open data to workplace productivity. She’s held staff positions at Parents.com, Scholastic, and About.com. You can follow her on Twitter @lovelanewest.

Make your next birthday party come to life by hosting it at Bounce U! • • • • •

Private Party Experience Giant Inflatable Rides Dedicated Party Pros Easy to Do We Clean Up!

$3 OFF

One Admission to Open Bounce! Valid at BounceU of Farmingdale location only. Coupon not valid with any other offer or discounts. No Cash value. One Coupon per visit per family. Not valid on Special Events or Charity Events. Expires 1/31/17.

$25 OFF Plus 3 FREE Additional Kids with a Premier or a Spec-Tac-U-Lar Party. Valid at BounceU of Farmingdale location only. Coupon not valid with any other offers or discounts. No cash value. One Coupon per visit per party. Expires 1/31/17.

BounceU of Farmingdale (631) 777-JUMP (5867) • BounceU.com/farmingdale 101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735 LongIslandParent 15

Finding Summer Fun in the Depths of Winter ››

Ignore the cold and the snow, and bring some of the joys of summertime to your kids year round. By Bethany Braun-Silva

here are so many fun summer activities we must forgo when the weather is too cold. But in fact, you don’t have to wait for warmer weather to enjoy some summer fun. Gather the family and check out these great summer activities you can do in winter, swimsuits required—seriously!

Get Wet at an Indoor Water Park

If a day at the waterpark is your child’s idea of a great time, it’s guaranteed to be even more fun in the winter. Who says you have to wait until Memorial Day to throw on your swimsuit? Family resorts such as Great Wolf Lodge and Camelback Resort in the Poconos region of Pennsylvania have huge indoor water parks that are a great way to get your summer fix in the winter. Your kids will love being allowed to put on their swimsuits in freezing temps, and there is nothing cooler than watching the snowfall from a heated pool!

Watch the Waves at the Beach

While beaches are closed for swimming during the winter, most of the boardwalks remain open. Take a stroll and watch the ocean, where the waves are usually huge in the colder months, making for a really great sight. Or hop on a bike on a boardwalk and grab a hot dog for lunch. 16

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

At some beaches, you may be able to even play in the sand, if there’s no snow on the ground—just be careful to stay a safe distance from the water. If you get cold, plan a trip to a nearby venue to warm up. You don’t have to wait until June or July to pay a visit to fantastic sea life: In Coney Island, Nathan’s hotdogs and the New York Aquarium are open nearly every day of the year.

Visit the Animals at the Zoo

While temps may be low, lots of local zoos remain open all year long. Bundle up and take a trip to visit the animals, or at least those that remain on display in the winter. You and the family can pop into an indoor exhibit when it gets too cold. There are some great ones happening this winter, including the 96 Elephants Global Origami Tribute at the Bronx Zoo. You can also pay a visit to the beloved seals and penguins at the Central Park Zoo, or take a spin (or several) on the carousel at many area zoos. Added bonus: No crowds. Be sure to pack a thermos of hot chocolate or cider. The animals are waiting!

Pitch a Tent and Camp Inside

Enjoy summer fun without leaving your home. You and your family can plan a camping trip right in your living room. If space

allows, pitch a tent and throw in some sleeping bags. If space is tight, any kind of makeshift fort will do. Roast some marshmallows on the stove or break out the grill for a wintertime cookout. Tell some ghost stories, blast the summertime jams, or throw on a favorite summer-themed movie. The kids will love the feeling of camping in their own house!

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

www.LIspeech.com

Star Gaze at a Planetarium

Lay (or, at least, sit back) under the stars at a local planetarium. While it may be too overcast in January and February to get a good look at the galaxies, a planetarium is a great way to take in some of the outdoors without actually being outside. The best part, you’ll be nice and warm! The Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan is a classic and offers various show times throughout the week; there are several other options around the region, many of which include kid-focused shows. A virtual trip under the stars should hold your family over until you can see the real thing.

Get Active at an Indoor Sports Facility

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

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

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

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

Take your kids to an indoor sports center or a batting cage. While Astroturf is not quite the same as fresh grass, it will do until the weather warms up. A family soccer or softball game is sure to get the blood flowing just enough to bear the cold. Indoor sport centers such as A-Game Sports in Westchester or Chelsea Piers in Manhattan have plenty of opportunities for some great family fun. Get all the benefits of being outdoors without having to face frigid temperatures.

SPORTIME SUMMER CAMPS

SALES DEPARTMENT OPENINGS WE HAVE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE - dmgsales@davlermedia.com • SALES SUPPORT - adoperations@davlermedia.com

LONG ISLAND’S BEST SUMMER TENNIS & SPORTS CAMPS FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES With camp locations throughout Long Island, the Hamptons and in New York, Westchester and the Capital Region, we’ve got your summer fun covered!

Visit us online to find the perfect camp for you!

www.SportimeCamps.com | 888-698-3664 Camp programs vary at each SPORTIME location.

LongIslandParent 17

Courtesy Oliver Stockhammer

Jovan Stockhammer, a third-grader at P.S. 118: The Maurice Sendak Community School in Park Slope, Brooklyn, works on creating a 3-D model of the Titanic as part of the school’s Exercise Your Brain program (left), and presents it in class (right).

Is Homework Necessary?

›› Inside the debate about whether kids really need homework—and what one elementary school is doing instead By Katelin Walling

“

omework is one of the most stressful parts of a family’s day,” says Elizabeth Garraway, principal at P.S. 118: The Maurice Sendak Community School in Park Slope, Brooklyn. “Families argue about homework and instead of being something that kids enjoy or something they learn from, it becomes a source of stress for parents and for kids.” At School Leadership Team meetings last year, parents kept bringing up concerns regarding homework. “A lot of families were feeling like the homework was kind of making their children feel under pressure or frustrated after school,” says Alexis Hernandez, a first-grade teacher at P.S. 118. These sentiments about homework are not unique to P.S. 118. Homework has been “a part of the discussion around education throughout the 20th century as people debated what should kids be doing in school and what should kids be doing outside of school,” says Thomas Hatch, Ed.D., co-director of the National Center for Restructuring Education, Schools, and Teaching. “I think the latest incarnation of the concerns about homework has come along with the concerns of the proliferation of testing. So, I think, right now concerns about homework, concerns about testing, concerns about academic pressure on kids are all kind of coming to the forefront.” While those concerns are being voiced, there is a huge divide in this country among parents. There are “parents who are very focused on high academic achievement and really push their kids. Those are the parents who want homework,” says Etta Kralovec,

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Ed.D., author of The End of Homework: How Homework Disrupts Families, Overburdens Children, and Limits Learning. “And then there’s another group of parents who want their kids to have well-rounded lives, who want their kids to be involved in church activities, or they want their kids to be in Scouting.” With the regular school day, extracurricular clubs and activities, and sports teams, many parents and students are lamenting how much time homework takes, and parents and educators are questioning whether it really benefits the kids.

Finding a Balance

Hatch doesn’t think teachers should stop assigning homework altogether, but should work to find a balance between activities that support academic development and activities that support other aspects of development. “My take on that is really to look at it in the broader perspective. It’s not just about homework per se, it’s about how much time and focus do we want to see kids having on academic activities,” says Hatch, who is also a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University. “It’s really about how do we create a balance between a focus on academics and activities to embrace a wider set of abilities.” The question of balance isn’t just a hot topic in the U.S.; there are debates going on in many countries, including Korea, China, and Singapore, according to Hatch. The concern is kids are spending too much time in tutoring centers. “It’s kind of like an educational

arms race where the parents are concerned about kids spending too much time outside of school cramming for tests…but at the same time they’re worried that if they don’t put their kids into those centers or don’t support continuing their academic focus after school, then those kids are going to fall behind,” Hatch says. “That’s in part what you see in the U.S. as well.” It’s possible to find that balance with and without homework, Hatch says. If students are spending their entire school day on reading, math, writing—the basic academic skills—and going home with worksheets, “that’s a problem,” he says. If, on the other hand, students have time for recess, play, music, and art during the school day, it’s okay, developmentally, for them to have some homework relating to their academic work.

Ending Homework

“I don’t see any benefit to keeping homework,” says Kralovec, who is also an associate professor of Teacher Education and the program director of Graduate Teacher Education at the University of Arizona South. “There’s just no research that says it develops any kind of abilities or characteristics in student behavior that they actually need in life.” At the elementary level, there is no research that shows homework increases academic achievement. “In fact, most of the research says that it’s detrimental to kids because they’ve been in school all day and they need to exercise other parts of themselves other than just their school self,” Kralovec says. “I think that’s why a lot of elementary schools are really looking at getting rid of it.” At the middle- and high-school levels, though, the research is less clear that homework doesn’t support academic achievement. “There’s a correlation between homework and grades, but the correlation is very weak. Homework may be part of a good student practice by the time you get to high school, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that the homework is actually effective,” she says. With the proliferation of articles in the past few years about school-induced stress, we know today’s students feel significant pressure to achieve—especially kids who want to go to college and think they have to be involved in various activities and in the community. Kralovec says homework, in some way, impedes high school students’ ability to become involved in their communities and develop interests that don’t grow out of school experiences. “I know some people say [homework] teaches kids responsibility, it teaches kids discipline, but there are just no studies that show it does any of that,” she says. “So for me, I like to think that there’s almost a firewall between the school and the child’s family life.”

Homework Alternatives

Back at P.S. 118’s SLT meetings, “parents were asking the teachers what they were doing with the homework,” Hernandez says. Not much, as it turns out. Rather than grading the homework and using it to plan future instruction, the teachers at P.S. 118 were mostly just checking to make sure the students completed and turned in their homework packets, Hernandez says. “So we really just kind of sat back and we thought what kind of program can we implement that would be more beneficial to our students, to our families, and to the teachers,” Hernandez says. “At P.S. 118, we really try to put a lot of play and hands-on learning in our curriculum, and so we thought why don’t we extend that into our after-school homework program as well and try to make it more interactive, more play-based, and more hands-on?” The result of that brainstorm session was Exercise Your Brain, which Hernandez created with Matt Weeks and Laura Willeford,

both third-grade teachers at P.S. 118. The three teachers looked to the program P.S. 11: The William T. Harris School in Chelsea, Manhattan, uses, the Home-Based Optional Practice. With HOP, teachers provide families with a list of optional activities (with individual and family approaches to each activity) for every grade level. “We put together a menu of activities that would hit on a lot of different profiles of learning,” Willeford says. “We wanted to create an opportunity where kids could express their learning and their engagement in school in a variety of modalities. EYB is a menu of activities that changes monthly from which kids can choose an activity to complete. While participation in EYB is not required, Weeks has found that “100-percent of students participate, and they’ve participated a handful of times so far,” he says. Exercise Your Brain was implemented at the beginning of the school year, and though it met with some hesitation from the parents, the feedback now is positive. “I remember having mixed feelings, because while I support innovation in education, this no homework idea was foreign to me,” says Debbie Farrell, a mother of first- and second-grade boys at P.S. 118. “My 7-year-old son used to delay starting his homework, or skip it altogether. Now he and his brother both start talking about which EYB activity they can do, even before we are home from school. They are also able to do some EYB activities together, like the science experiment making invisible ink. They seem more patient with each other as well.” Oliver Stockhammer, father of third-grade Jovan, says, “Maria [Jovan’s mother] and I feel that this program has engaged the children on such a higher level than simple homework worksheets, getting them ownership of the projects, selecting and following through.” “I’m also seeing [increased engagement] in the classroom,” Willeford says. “My class is probably the most engaged class I’ve had, and I think a lot of that is attributed to the fact that they have been able to be creative and have self-initiated learning.” The kids are loving EYB, too. “You have fun with EYB because you’re making something and learning a lot about different things,” Jovan says. “You don’t have to do homework all night long, and you get to present to the class and get to show what you did. With normal homework you just hand it in.”

Making Changes in Your School

The one resounding piece of advice everyone gave: Changing the homework policy at your children’s school should be a major discussion within the school community. Each school “needs to deal with the issue from the context of that school community. It really requires all parents to get involved to try to shape the work at the school so there’s a balance between school life and family life,” Kralovec says. “You do really have to look at your population, and you need to talk to the stakeholders. Talk to the principal, go to the SLT and make a presentation,” Garraway says. “We talked about it in SLT all last year, and we implemented [Exercise Your Brain] this year because homework just kept coming up” as an issue. It’s also important to look at how scaling back or ending homework will affect all kids in terms of their performance at school. “Those who love academics may thrive when there’s more to do. Those who are already disengaged from school may find it even more problematic if there’s too much activity, and then they respond when the homework is cut back, but it may not benefit them unless they’re also given alternate ways to improve their educational performance or to get engaged in academic activities,” Hatch says. “It’s about finding that right balance that allows every student to get the kind of academic support they need.” LongIslandParent 19

John Raiola

Not of the Faith

Students at Iona Prep’s Upper School work on a class assignment.

›› How local Catholic schools have integrated—and accommodated—students from all types of religious backgrounds By Samantha Neudorf

rthur Tobias is the father of three kids in New Rochelle and was brought up in an Italian-Catholic family. His wife is Jewish and his kids identify as Jewish, yet his two sons attend Iona Preparatory School—an all-boys Catholic school in New Rochelle. Tobias says that when it was time for his older son to consider high schools, he was either going to continue attending public school or enroll in Iona Prep, where the elder Tobias had gone himself years earlier. But he did not know if the school would accept non-Catholic students until he had a conversation with a colleague who had been in the same situation: his wife and kids were Jewish, yet he sent his kids to Iona Prep. The colleague was a member of the school’s board and said that at one point board members had asked, “Who do we admit into the school?” They decided that being Catholic was not required, opening the school to kids with different religious backgrounds. Tobias and his wife then discussed sending their son to Iona Prep. They were concerned he might be teased or experience prejudice because he is Jewish. “She understood that I went there and that I valued my four years there and still do,” Tobias says. They came to an understanding and agreed to enroll him. Four years later, Tobias’ son graduated from Iona Prep and thanked his parents for allowing him to go there.

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Catholic School Policies

Edward O’Neill, the principal of the Upper School at Iona Prep, says that out of the 750 boys in ninth through 12th grades, 171 identify as not Catholic, which is approximately 23 percent of the student population. That number includes students who are Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu, as well as non-Catholic Christians. O’Neill says he believes non-Catholic students apply to Iona Prep because of the school’s values. “Our values system is fairly clear, so people can identify with that,” O’Neill says. “We’re able to project a set of values of right and wrong, why we think kids should pursue their values and a good life.” The school requires all students to take four years of a course in Catholic religion and to attend school Mass once per month. The class is just like any other course in that the students receive a grade and have homework, and while Mass attendance is mandatory, participation is not. “The guys don’t have to actively participate, but we do want them to be familiar with our liturgies and how we celebrate our religion,” O’Neill says. Many other Catholic schools have similar policies, in which non-Catholic students can enroll and must go to Mass, but are not forced to participate or share the same beliefs. Maria Ljubich, the advancement director of St. Bernadette Catholic Academy in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, says 4 percent

SCHOOL MARKETPLACE of the 400 students in pre-K through eighth grades are non-Catholic, but all participate in prayer and school Mass. “Religion is taught as a subject on a daily basis and prayer permeates our day,” Ljubich says. Catholic students may prepare sacraments and non-Catholic students are welcome to help, but they do not have to receive them. Ljubich says no problems have come up from nonCatholic students and their families. Jane Harrigan, the principal of Our Lady of Mercy School in Hicksville, says approximately 31 students out of the 300 in pre-K through eighth grades identify as non-Catholic. She says some parents have asked questions about what it will mean for their child to receive an education in a Catholic school. “We talk about…what the child would be experiencing because especially with the little ones, they’re learning ABCs, numbers, and also prayer,” Harrigan says. Students at Our Lady of Mercy School take a religion class, and though they are learning about the faith, they do not have to agree with it, Harrigan says. “If there are any places where perhaps our [religion] and theirs is not exactly the same, then the parents take it upon themselves to say [to their kids], ‘This is what you’re learning in the Catholic school, this is what we believe in. We’re respectful of both,’” Harrigan says. Unlike Iona Prep and St. Bernadette Catholic School, tuition prices vary at Our Lady of Mercy School: Tuition is slightly cheaper for a Catholic student whose family attends a church in the diocese in Rockville Centre. The reasoning behind the difference is these families are already making monetary contributions to their Catholic church along with tuition, and some of that goes toward Our Lady of Mercy church, which is adjacent to the school.

Misconceptions, Debunked

In the beginning, Tobias’s eldest son was unsure about Mass and did not want to attend. “He was anxious about it because any time he had been to church, it was with me and it was a family setting,” Tobias says. At the school, all students are expected to get up and stand in line for communion, but they do not have to receive it. “It removes the stigma of, ‘Well, why aren’t you going up and going to communion?’” Tobias says. If his son did not like Iona Prep, Tobias says he would not have enrolled his kids in any other Catholic school. His daughter is currently a senior at a public high school because she did not like the private school she and her parents considered. It’s a matter of researching the school and constantly checking in with your child, Tobias says. “[See] if there are any anxieties or concerns they may be having around the idea that they’re in a school different from their religion,” he advises. “A lot of kids are adjusting to high school life and religious differences may be just another part of that adjustment.” O’Neill has been an educator at Catholic schools for 44 years and attended one as a student 50 years ago. Catholic schools used to be viewed as extremely rigid, he admits, with an emphasis on discipline and order. But, he says, educators’ mindsets have changed in the past 20 years because a lot of them are modernizing and adapting to the times. “The older approach was ‘Here’s a group of kids and everybody is going to conform,’” O’Neill says. “At some point, Catholic schools got it that they needed to treat people as individuals and adjust to their learning styles.”

@LuDay

Discover, Create, Become

Preschool 2-year olds through Grade 5 Open House - 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 12  Wednesday, February 15 Call the Admissions Office at (631) 754-4424 ext. 224 to register.

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

St Mary School 1-8 pg ad:Layout 1 9/27/16 3:18 PM Page 1

Nurturing spiritual growth for over 100 years.

ST. MARY SCHOOL

16 Harrison Avenue, East Islip, NY 11730 • 631.581.3423 • saintmaryschoolei.org

Scholarship • Integrity • Service Pre-K through Grade 8 After School Activities • Before & After Care Accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools

OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, Jan 29th @ 10:30-2:00 St. Isidore School | Principal: Ms. Helen Anne Livingston 515 Marcy Ave Riverhead, NY 11901 | (631) 727-1650 | www.sisriverhead.com

LongIslandParent 21

Academic Enrichment & Educational Services Huntington Learning Centers (LI)

656 Sunrise Highway, Baldwin 516-867-4041 607 E. Main St., Bay Shore 631-968-5100 79-81 Westbury Ave., Carle Place 516-747-5600 Elwood Shopping Center, 1928B Jericho Turnpike, East Northport 631-462-8900 Phillips Plaza, 639 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-568-1900 1506 Northern Blvd., Manhasset 516-365-4455 South Gate Shopping Center, 49-34 Merrick Road, Massapequa Park 516-799-9500 Gateway Plaza, 499-5 Sunrise Highway, Patchogue 631-289-4900 443 South Oyster Bay Road, Suite B, 2nd floor, Plainview 516-681-0400 Smithtown Shopping Center, 8 Miller Place, Smithtown 631-360-0422 huntingtonhelps.com Huntington Learning Center’s tips for parents at mid-year report card time: The new year is upon us, which means it’s time for mid-year report cards, which can stir up stress for children struggling with school. Huntington Learning Center reminds parents that the mid-year report card should be used as a tool to identify issues and seek help to address them during the remainder of the school year. Since 1977, Huntington has helped students develop the skills, confidence, and motivation they need to succeed. Call 1-800-CANLEARN (226-5327) or visit huntingtonhelps.com for more information.

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, director LIU Post, Brookville

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

Village East Gifted - Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted® is a highly rigorous, creative, and engaging academic enrichment program for gifted students ages 3-16. Its curriculum includes Latin, writing, geography, global studies, world history, STEM, advanced linguistics, SAT vocabulary enrichment, public speaking, art, and creative problem solving. Gifted pre-kindergarten (ages 3-4) is offered as well as parallel classes for bright children not classified as gifted. More than 400 students have enrolled in the program, all of whom have placed in the 90th percentile or higher on national

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

tests with IQ scores between 130 and 155.

YMCA of Long Island

855-2YMCALI (962254) ymcali.org tamar.simpson@ymcali.org YMCA East Hampton RECenter 2 Gingerbread Lane, East Hampton 631-329-6884 YMCA at Glen Cove 125 Dosoris Lane, Glen Cove 516-671-8270 Great South Bay YMCA 200 W. Main St., Bay Shore 631-665-4255 YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts 37 W. Main St., Bay Shore 631-969-1101 Huntington YMCA 60 Main St., Huntington 631-421-4242 Patchogue Family YMCA 255 W. Main St., Patchogue 631-891-1800 Brookhaven Roe YMCA Center 155 Buckley Road, Holtsville YMCA Family Services-Counseling 1150 Portion Road, Suite 6, Holtsville 631-580-7777 YMCA of Long Island works daily to improve lives through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Each year, we serve more than 65,000 people island-wide of all ages and backgrounds. Our locations in Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Huntington, Holtsville, and Patchogue provide programs and services for youth, teens, adults, and seniors including state-of-the-art fitness centers, group exercise classes, youth and teen programs, pristine pools, family activities, preschool, before- and after-school programs, and summer day camp for children ages 3-15 of all interests!

Charter & Public Schools Long Island High School for the Arts 239 Cold Spring Road, Syosset

OO CH L

SPECIA

Schools & Educational Services Guide

A directory of top area schools, tutors, and other academic services to help you make the best decisions for your child

516-622-5678 nassauboces.org/lihsa The Long Island High School for the Arts offers a free, public, half-day high school program (ninth to 12th grades) for talented young artists who are passionately exploring the world of dance, drama, filmmaking, instrumental and vocal music, theater technology, musical theater, and visual arts. We also offer the LIHSA Summer Arts Academy open to sixth to 12th grades. Open house Feb. 4 from 10am–2pm. For more information contact us at 516-622-5678, mstencel@ nasboces.org, or nassauboces. org/lihsa.

Preschools Long Island Lutheran Day School

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

Parochial Schools Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre 128 Cherry Lane, Hicksville

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

engaged in hands-on learning. Our caring and dedicated faculty and staff work to preserve a warm, family atmosphere. Faculty and staff alike share a deep commitment to the growth and success of each student. We are proud to foster children in a Christ-centered environment, helping them to become confident, lifelong learners.

Our Lady of Mercy Regional School 27685 NY-25, Cutchogue

631-734-5166 olmregional.org Our Lady of Mercy is a nursery through sixth grade school. We offer strong academic programs in a safe, Catholic environment. Our Catholic identity is present as we educate students to be moral, giving individuals living our motto, “Share the Spirit.” We offer many programs that meet the needs of all our students. Enrichment and academic intervention, small

class instruction, and extended time in ELA and math are the standard. Science and social studies are also daily components to student academics.

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 liturcontinued on next page ››

SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

Providing Services For Over 45 Years

Holy Angels Regional School

1 Division St., Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org mmulderrig@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!

The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children (HLVS), is a not-for proﬁt program that provides services for infants and children up to 11 years of age with learning language and social delays, motor impairments and autism with no direct cost to families: *Evaluations *Early intervention (Birth - 3) •SEIT *CSE Itinerant Services •ABA Home Programs

•Related Services: -Speech - OT/PT - Parent Training - Family Support Services

•Special Ed Classes: - Developmental Groups (2 -3) - Pre-School (3-5) - School-Age (5-11) - Inclusion

Long Island Lutheran Day School

106 Vernon Valley Road, East Northport 631-754-4424 x224 longislandlutheran.org admissions@ludaynorthport.org Long Island Lutheran Day School at St. Paul’s offers an outstanding early childhood and elementary program that combines challenging academics with a caring and nurturing faith-based environment. Classroom technology enhances and encourages innovative teaching that keeps students actively

750 Hicksville Road Seaford, NY 11783 • 516-520-600 www.littlevillage.org

Funded and regulated by Nassau County (NCDOH) and Suﬀolk County (SCDOH) Department of Health, NYS, NYS ED Department Early Intervention (EI) and Committee for Preschool Special Education (CPSE) services are for children who have or are suspected of having a developmental delay or disability. Evaluations must be referred by NCDOH/SCDOH for EI and/or to the local school district for CPSE. Services are provided based on an individual child’s eligibility as established by NYS DOH and/or NYS ED department and local government at no direct cost to parents. Parents are responsible for fees/costs associated with childcare. LongIslandParent 23

‹‹ continued from previous page

gical, 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 takes place in our faithfilled environment. Welcome Wednesday tours are available by appointment. Before- and after-school care available.

St. Mary School

16 Harrison Ave., East Islip 631-581-3423 stmaryschoolei.org For more than 100 years, St. Mary School has provided challenging academic programs rooted in the Catholic tradition for children in nursery through eighth grade. We prepare and inspire students to apply the gospel message to all areas of their lives. We encourage all to think, to question, and to analyze in order to take their place as productive, cultured, and educated Christians. We offer Early Childhood Nursery, pre-K, kindergarten-eighth grade, after-school activities,

before and after care. Tours are always available; open house: Saturday Jan. 28 from 1-3pm.

Special Education Bakshi Law

Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law. We represent parents and children with disabilities, acquire correct classification under IDEA, ensure proper implementation of IEP, ascertain correct placement for children, and tuition reimbursement. We attend CSE meetings, resolution meetings, and suspension hearings, and all disciplinary hearings for special needs and general education students. Bakshi Law’s attorneys are passionate about your child’s education and offer assistance on a sliding scale for parents experiencing financial difficulties.

The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children

750 Hicksville Road, Seaford 516-520-6000

littlevillage.org jon.feingold@littlevillage.org The Hagedorn Little Village School is a nonprofit school highly regarded for providing outstanding educational and therapeutic services for children with a wide range of developmental disabilities. HLVS provides year-round programs and services that include diagnostic evaluations and treatment, early intervention, a preschool, an elementary school, SEIT, and related services. Services provided on-site and in homes, nursery schools, and day care centers include speech, feeding, occupational, physical, and movement therapies; behavior management or Applied Behavior Analysis; counseling; and support groups.

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

1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com School districts consult their attorneys, why shouldn’t you? Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child

is entitled to under law. He’ll guide you, decipher lingo, and develop effective strategies. He’s also a New York state-certified impartial hearing officer who hears cases in New York City, Rockland, and Westchester counties.

Long Island Whole Child Academy School for Twice Exceptional Learning

175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville 347-668-3676 liwholechild.org etrdream@aol.com The Long Island Whole Child Academy, School for Twice Exceptional Learning, is the only Long Island school dedicated to serving once highly capable students who also cope with anxiety, executive functioning, social cognition and sensory processing challenges, ADHD, and high-functioning ASD youth, who do not thrive in a traditional school setting. Our mission is to provide a cutting-edge, integrated educational experience that raises the academic bar while building social and emotional strength and resilience through individualized attention and best clinical and gifted education practices. We also offer Saturday adventures and mid-week homeschoolers’ clubs.

SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

Holy Angels Regional School

Our Lady of Mercy Regional School

“Share the Spirit”

Give Your Children the advantage that lasts a lifetime!

• Early Childhood Programs • Pre-K thru Eighth Grade • Extra-Curricular Activities • Before & After Care OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, January 29th, 2017 1:30PM – 3:30PM Contact us: 631-475-0422 1 Division St. Patchogue, NY 11772 www.holyangelsregional.org 24

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Open House – Sunday, January 29th 1:00pm – 3:00 pm Accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools

27685 Main Rd. Cutchogue, NY 11935 631-734- 5166 • www.olmregional.org

SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

School Districts Consult Attorneys. CAMPAIGN FOR THE

Why Shouldn’t You?

PURSUE YOUR PASSION...

The Long Island High School for the Arts (LIHSA) offers a unique opportunity

as part of your free, public high school education to talented young artists who are actively exploring the world of

dance, drama, filmmaking, instrumental & vocal music, theater technology, musical theatre and visual arts

Also check out our

Summer Arts Academy for Grades 6-12th

OPEN HOUSE Saturday,

FEB 4

239 Cold Spring Rd, Syosset (516) 622-5678 mstencel@nasboces.org

10am-2pm

SNOW DATE FEB 11

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

Brad H. Rosken,

Counselor at Law

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

Building Blocks is an Early Intervention and Preschool Program dedicated to educational excellence and committed to meeting the developmental needs of all young children. Services are provided at home, in the community, at daycare, or at our center as determined by the child’s IEP or IFSP.

EI & Preschool Autism Program • SEIT Services Family Training • Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy Complete Diagnostic Services

Special & General Education Classes EI Special Instruction • Parent Child Groups Toddler Separation Groups 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. To refer a child suspected of developmental delay please call Suffolk County DOH EIP at 631-853-3100 for children 0-3yrs; or the child’s school district for children 3-5 years of age. All authorized services provided to eligible children are funded through NYS & Suffolk County at no cost to families. BBDPS is an approved provider and evaluator of Early Intervention & Preschool special education services and is regulated by NYSED and NYSDOH.

LOOKING FOR

GREAT DEALS?

Saving money on a New York City family day is easy! Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more. Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

LongIslandParent 25

OUTINGS: Queens Museum

nymetroparents.com/outings

Queens’ Most Versatile Museum The 4-in-1 institute is an art museum, classroom, community center, and historical site. ››

Courtesy Queens Museum

Max Touhey

Courtesy Queens Museum

The Neustadt Collection of Tiffany Glass

By Lauren Diaz

1 A peacock lamp from The Neustadt Collection of Tiffany Glass, a collection that fosters a better understanding and appreciation of the artwork of Louis C. Tiffany. 2 Families can snap a photo in the phosphorescent photo booth at the museum’s annual Spooktacular event in January. 3 Circus Amok!, a New York City-based circus-theater company, provides musical entertainment as guests dance at the museum’s Spooktacular. 4 The museum’s west façade is covered in glass panels spanning the length of the building, which are backlit by programmable LED lighting. 5 The Panorama of the City of New York is a 9,335-squarefoot model of the entire city, which was planned using aerial photographs, fire insurance maps, and other city materials.

The New York City Building was originally built with the purpose of housing the New York City Pavilion at the 1939 World’s Fair. After hosting another World’s Fair in 1964, it finally became home to The Queens Museum. Within this building you will find a host of unique and educational exhibits, galleries, and fun and interactive programming for your family.

Year-Round Fun

Billed as an indoor helicopter tour and often referred to as the “jewel of the crown of the collection” by staff, The Panorama of the City of New York was one of the most successful attractions at the 1964 World’s Fair. Each of the city’s 895,000 buildings constructed prior to 1992 and every street, park, and some 100 bridges are represented. Other permanent exhibits include The Neustadt Collection of Tiffany Glass, an extraordinary array of colorful lamps and windows, a 540-square-foot Relief Map of the New York City Water Supply System, and a World’s Fair Visible Storage collection. The Queens Museum prides itself on educa26

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

tional programming and offers weekly Dropin Family Art Workshops. Families with children ages 5-12 are invited to take part in a number of diverse art projects ranging from designing city blocks to making puppets. Each year, the museum also offers a number of programs for children and adults with varying abilities through its ArtAccess initiative. The Museum Explorers Club specifically aims to aid families affected by autism. Families participate in creating art inspired by the work in the galleries while exploration and play help bridge connections and build literacy.

for Queens residents who are entering seventh to ninth grades.

Annual Events

Details

The Queens Museum hosts Queens International, a biannual exhibition of artists living or working in Queens. The exhibit aims to highlight and contextualize the vibrancy of the borough through cultural productions in all media. The museum also offers a number of summer programs including two-week summer camps for children ages 7-11 and a six-week Summer Youth Arts program

January Highlights

Each year, with the help of Circus Amok!, the Queens Museum turns into a spooky wonderland for its Spooktacular event. The afternoon is full of exciting performances, face painting, art making, and scavenger hunts. This event is ticketed with proceeds benefitting the museum’s Education Department, which provides arts programs for students and adults of all abilities. Spooktacular will be held Jan. 21, 2-4pm. Address: New York City Building, Meridian Road, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens Directions: Approximately a 45-minute drive from Huntington Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-5pm Admission: $8; $4 seniors; free for children 18 and younger For more information: queensmuseum.org or 718-592-9700

Is your child interested in

ACTING, MODELING or SINGING?

is the place to get them started!

We specialize in afterschool & weekend development for Actors, Models, & Performers ages 4-18.

On Camera Scene Study TV Commercials Audition Runway With TOP NYC CASTING Fashion Print AGENTS Improv & Comedy Voice Overs & Many More! To apply for a FREE live on-camera audition Call 516-765-2400 or visit www.TowerTalent.com

LIU POST’S CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH

Days Filled With Fun & Excitement!

For Boys & Girls, 4-14 2-8 Week Programs Available Operated by Licensed Teachers & Administrators We Accept All Union Rates Weekly Field Trips Red Cross Swim Program & Sports with Instruction including Karate Arts & Crafts

SPRING 2017 SATURDAY PROGRAM January 28th, 2017 - April 22nd, 2017 for students entering grades K-8 in 2016

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

OpEn HOusE

SAT., JAn. 21ST, 2017 • 11Am-1pm

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 37th annual spring program for gifted children. The spring program runs on Saturdays from January 28-April 22. The program is open to gifted children entering grades K-8 in 2016. The major focus of the program is to expand students’ knowledge and develop creative and critical thinking skills. The program offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

EAST ISLIP LAnES 117 E Main St. • East Islip, NY 11730

Call 631-476-3330 OR

1-800-dAycAmp (329-2267)

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

Admission Admi miissio sio i n iis h highly ighly s 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

LongIslandParent 27

Mitzvah Market magazine Your Source for Ideas & Inspiration

2016-2017

Get Your FREE Copy M MITZVAHMARKET.CO

Rituals & Customs:

Your single source for:

g Entertainers g Caterers g Favors g Photographers g Invitations and more...

FREE COPY

HOW TO

Personalize Your Service •••

FASHION TRENDS

for the Whole Family •••

MITZVAH PROJECTS:

Great Ideas to Give Back

❒ I want a free copy of the 2016-17 Mitzvah Market magazine Name

Address City

State

Phone

WAYS TO CREATE

Zip

cha An Unforgettable Sim

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Photo Credit: André Maier

Photo Credit: Beth Capuano

Davler Media Group Fax: 212.271.2239 • Call: 914.290.4716 Email: Distributon@davlermedia.com 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor New York, NY 10018

Your Mitzvah CHECKLIST, Budget Worksheet and TIMELINE

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Barnstorm Theatre Company Presents ‘The Bockety World of Bucket and Henry’ (No. 7 on our list).

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

nyme

com/c

ents. ropar

JANUARY CALENDAR

30 Editor’s Hot Tickets

34 Crafty Kids, Once Upon a Time

31 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

35 Holiday Fun, Movers & Shakers

32 Show Time!, The Great Outdoors, WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

EDITOR: KAREN DEMETER suffolkcal@davlermedia.com

33 Open Houses, Must-Sees in NYC

36 Smarty Pants, Animal Lovers 37 Special Needs

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

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

Holiday Spectacular on Ice

WHEN: Through Jan. 1: see website for schedule WHERE: Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 E. Main St., Patchogue AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Set to beloved classic and contemporary holiday songs, this family-friendly show stars your favorite figure skaters, singers, and dancers. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will be delighted by the transformation of the stage to an ice rink. WANT TO GO? $29.50 and up. 631-207-1313. patchoguetheatre.org.

Snap Circuits FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 4, 4-5pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids construct circuits that will light up, sound off, and power an accessory. Sign-up required. WHY WE LOVE IT: Makes learning electronics easy and fun WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

3 30

Candy Sushi FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 7, 11am-12pm WHERE: Half Hollow Hills Community Library, 55 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Create some delicious candy sushi and decorate a box to

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

bring it home. WHY WE LOVE IT: We’ll take sushi any way we can get it! WANT TO GO? 631-421-4530. hhhlibrary.org.

Robot Bowling FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 4-5pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Knock down the pins using a robot as your bowling ball. You’ll need to correctly program its path in order to succeed. WHY WE LOVE IT: Bowling and STEM make a great combination! WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Rubber Duckie Party

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 14, 2:30pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children blow tons of bubbles, color duckie feet, go on a rubber duck scavenger hunt, and design their own rubber duck. WHY WE LOVE IT: The beloved rubber duckie provides simple yet creative fun! WANT TO GO? $5 with admission: $6; $5 children ages 4-18; free for children younger than 4. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.com.

Goat on a Boat at Bay Street Theater Presents ‘Father Goose’s Tales’

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 14, 11am WHERE: Bay Street Theater, Bay and Main streets, Sag Harbor AGES: 3-8, adult WHAT: Mother Goose has taken the day off and Father Goose must do all her chores, including the storytelling. WHY WE LOVE IT: This is a modern retelling of nursery rhymes. WANT TO GO? $15. 631-725-9500. baystreet.org.

Barnstorm Theatre Company Presents ‘The Bockety World of Bucket and Henry’

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 15, 11:30am and 2pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This production explores friendship through a day in the life of two friends who have been likened to a modern-day Laurel and Hardy. WHY WE LOVE IT: We can examine what friendship is, what happens if it goes wrong, and how it can be fixed. WANT TO GO? $9 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

‘Sister Act’

WHEN: Jan. 7-22, Friday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2:30pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s hilarious and uplifting! WANT TO GO? $11 in advance, $13 at door. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

Reading is Fundamental Night FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 7:30-8:30pm WHERE: Riverhead Free Library, 330 Court St., Riverhead AGES: All WHAT: Stories and fun activities are planned to encourage children and families to further develop their literacy skills. Families may also register for the Literacy Zone Welcome Center and sign up for library cards as well. WHY WE LOVE IT: Books bind a family together! WANT TO GO? 631-727-3228. riverheadlibrary.org.

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. Lego Club FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 2, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Have fun creating with Lego and meeting new friends. Sign up required. WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Huntington Arts Council Presents The Versatility of Street Art FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 7, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 12-4pm WHERE: Huntington Arts Council, 213 Main St., Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Featured art by various artists and media inspired by street art of all interpretations. WANT TO GO? 631-271-8423. huntingtonarts.org.

Curtis Haywood: A Smooth and Saaxy Experience FREE

‘The Sound of Music’

WHEN: Jan. 28-29, Saturday, 2pm and 8pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: West Hampton Beach Performing Art Center, 76 Main St., Westhampton Beach AGES: 3 and older WHAT: The show features memorable songs such as “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and “Sixteen Going On Seventeen.” WHY WE LOVE IT: Still one of our “favorite things.” WANT TO GO? $17. 631-288-1500. whbpac.org.

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 8, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: All WHAT: As a soprano sax artist, Curtis draws his audience into soulful interpretations of R&B favorites and contemporary jazz originals. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Re-Envisioning Theodore Roosevelt’s Sagamore Hill FREE WHEN: Jan. 1-15, Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, 20 Sagamore Hill Road, Oyster Bay AGES: All WHAT: The show features the artwork of previous participants in the juried Teaching Studios of Art Plein Air Competition juxtaposed with historic landscapes from Sagamore Hill’s museum collection. WANT TO GO? 516-922-4788. nps.gov/sahi.

Self Defense for Teens FREE

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 20, 6-7pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Learn how to protect yourself with this great self-defense course. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org. ›› LongIslandParent 31

THE GREAT OUTDOORS First Day Hikes FREE

SHOW TIME! Disney’s ‘Beauty & the Beast Jr.’

WHEN: Jan. 7-8, Saturday, 3pm and 8pm; Sunday, 2pm WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Featuring songs from the Academy Award-winning animated feature, this stage version includes music by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Menken and Tim Rice. WANT TO GO? $20. 631-261-2900. engemantheater.com.

‘Red Riding Hood’

WHEN: Jan. 10-13, Tuesday-Friday, 10am and 12pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This musical that offers an interactive take on a classic tale. WANT TO GO? $9 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Emerson String Quartet 2

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 8pm WHERE: Staller Center, Stony Brook University, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The January program will include: Mozart’s “String Quartet in D minor, K. 421”; Brahms’ “Sextet in B flat Major, Op 18”; and Ravel’s “String Quartet.” WANT TO GO? $48. 631-632-6000. stallercenter.com.

‘Madagascar the Musical’

WHEN: Jan. 8-Feb. 4, Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 12pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre, 265 E. Main St., East Islip AGES: All WHAT: Take a journey out of the zoo and onto the stage with your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends from the blockbuster DreamWorks film. WANT TO GO? $13. 631-581-2700. broadhollow.org.

‘The Three Little Pigs’

WHEN: Jan. 21-Feb. 4, Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 3pm WHERE: Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Told completely in song and verse, this is a new look at the pigs and their plight. The original music focuses on issues of race relations and the homeless. WANT TO GO? $10. 631-928-9100. theatrethree.com.

‘The Snow Queen’

WHEN: Jan. 28-March 5, Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 10:30am WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join Gerda as she sets out to save her best friend Kai from the icy palace of the Snow Queen. WANT TO GO? $15. 631-261-2900. engemantheater.com. 32

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 1, 10am WHERE: Bethpage State Park, 99 Quaker Meetinghouse Road, Farmingdale AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Bethpage State Park will host a 5-mile hike, which will start at the playground in the picnic area. WANT TO GO? 516-249-3560. nysparks.com/parks.

New Year’s Day Hike

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 1, 10am WHERE: Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park parking field 5, Fire Island AGES: All WHAT: Take a guided walk around the western end of the National Seashore. Learn about how the beach reacts to erosion and how the flora and fauna interact with the winter weather. Reservations required. WANT TO GO? Walk: free; tower tour: $7; $4 children (must be taller than 42 inches). 631-661-4876. fireislandlighthouse.com.

First Day Hikes: Seal Walk FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 1, 2-4:15pm WHERE: Montauk Point State Park, 2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk AGES: 5 and older WHAT: At the end of the South Fork of Long Island, there will be a seal walk taking place at Montauk Point State Park. WANT TO GO? 631-668-5000. nysparks.com.

First Day Hikes FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 1, 12:30-2:15pm WHERE: Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington AGES: All WHAT: Take a stroll through the park. WANT TO GO? 631-423-1770. nysparks.com.

First Day Hikes FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 1, 10:15am WHERE: Nissequogue River State Park, 799 Saint Johnland Road, Kings Park AGES: 9 and older WHAT: On the north shore, a park guide at Nissequogue River State Park will be leading a hike starting at the parking lot near the Admin building. WANT TO GO? 516-721-0223. nysparks.com.

First Day Hikes FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 1, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Sunrise Highway, Bohemia AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Join a park guide to explore the changes in the forest during the winter and search for signs of wildlife. Meet at the Main House. WANT TO GO? 631-581-1072. nysparks.com.

New Year’s Hike

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 2, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor

AGES: All WHAT: Start the year off by learning about Long Island’s winter habitats with a guided nature hike. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $6; $4 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 516-692-6768. cshfha.org.

CityBound Must-Sees in

N Y C

Evening Tower Tour

Teresa Wood

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 14, 4:15pm WHERE: Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park, parking field 5, Fire Island AGES: All WHAT: Experience the sunset from a new perspective, view the night sky from the top of the lighthouse. Bright a flashlight and call for reservations. WANT TO GO? $20. 631-661-4876. fireislandlighthouse.com.

Winter Hike

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 28, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching & Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Take a walk through the trails to learn about what wild animals are up to in the cold winter. Afterward, visit the exhibit to see how animals cope with the cold. WANT TO GO? $7. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

Elephant and Piggie rock out with The Squirelles.

We are in a Play!

Visit and Information Session for Summer 2017 FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 8, 11am-2pm WHERE: Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts, 185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Visit the Usdan campus, engage in fun activities, and hear more activities planned for Summer 2017. WANT TO GO? 631-643-7900. usdan.com.

Courtesy New York Boat Show

OPEN HOUSES

A musical adaptation of Mo Willems’s best-selling children’s books of the same name: Elephant and Piggie. The famous BFFs dance across the stage and sing songs alongside their backing singers The Squirrelles. They address very important questions such as: What do you wear to a fancy costume pool party? Should you share your ice cream? Like the books, this show won’t fail to put a smile on your face. Jan. 28-Feb. 5; see website for show times. Age: 4-7. $25. The New Victory Theater, 229 W. 42nd St., Times Square Theater District. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Open House FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 6pm WHERE: Long Island Whole Child Academy, 175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville AGES: All WHAT: This non-traditional, small, nonprofit private school builds upon the strengths and talents of children while integrating clinical supports to help them soar. WANT TO GO? 347-668-3676. liwholechild.org.

Nursery School Fair FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 21, 10am-12pm WHERE: Middle Country Public Library, 101 Eastwood Blvd., Centereach AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Representatives from local nursery schools and preschools will be available to answer questions. Families will have the opportunity to meet the teachers and get familiar with educational philosophies. WANT TO GO? 631-585-9393. mcplibrary.org.

Open House FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 28, 10am WHERE: Long Island Whole Child Academy, 175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville AGES: All WHAT: Learn about cutting edge and unique educational models for gifted students who learn differently and cope with executive functioning, social cognition, and sensory processing challenges, ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, Aspserger’s syndrome, and ASD. WANT TO GO? 347-668-3676. liwholechild.org. ››

A fun day out for all ages

Ahoy There, Manhattan The world’s first and longest-running boat show, the Progressive® Insurance New York Boat Show is a fun day out for the whole family. Take the helm and try out boats of all sizes, from luxury motor yachts and sport fishers to performance boats and sailboats. There’s a family zone with activities that include a toy workshop, balloon fun, and a photo opportunity with a pirate. Ooh-ahhh. Jan. 25-29; see website for times. Age: All. $16, free for children 15 and younger (with an adult). Jacob K. Javits Center, 655 W. 34th St., Hell’s Kitchen. 718-707-0711. nyboatshow.com. LongIslandParent 33

Sculpture and Upcycled Art

WHEN: Jan. 11-25, Wednesdays, 5:15-6:15pm WHERE: Mini Monet, 64 Railroad Ave., Sayville AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Use found objects in the upcycled class to create fun animals out of clay, wood, bottle caps, and more. WANT TO GO? $20. 631-218-9797. minimonetny.com.

Shadow Caster FREE

CRAFTY KIDS

Beginners Sewing Workshop FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 4, 4-5pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Learn how to use a sewing machine to create your own tote bag. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Hands-On Art

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 5, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Learn the elements of art to create masterpieces. Call to register. WANT TO GO? $10. 631-751-0066 x212. longislandmuseum.org.

Traditional Torans

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 8, 2-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: In Indian culture, torans are traditionally placed above the main door of a house on holidays as a sign of welcome. Come make your own. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516224-5800. licm.org.

It’s a New Year Paint Night

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 8, 5-6:30pm WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Create a yin/yang, sun/moon painting. Register online. WANT TO GO? $25. 631-608-9048. keytomyart.com.

Snowy Barn Kid’s Paint Event

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 15, 3-4pm WHERE: Key to My Art, 10 W. Oak St., Amityville AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Paint a beautiful barn. Reserve a space online. WANT TO GO? $25. 631-608-9048. keytomyart.com.

Paint Party

WHEN: Jan. 21-22, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-12 WHAT: You’re a scientist today—create nontoxic glossy paint. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org. 34

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 28, 11-11:45am WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Will we have six more weeks of winter? Use your artistic superpowers to create a groundhog craft and meet a live friend, too. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Green Teen Series: Reuse and Rethink

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 29, 11am-3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Activities will bring science to life and create awareness of the importance of conservation. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Silly Snow People

WHEN: Jan. 2-31, see website for dates, 2-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Make a silly snow person from cotton balls and craft materials. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME Bubbles-n-Books Storytime FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 3, 11:30am-12pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: Newborn to 5, adult WHAT: Enjoy stories, songs, movement, and bubbles. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Winter Storytime FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 5, 6:30-7:15pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy wintery stories, songs, and a special craft your child. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Pajama Storytime FREE

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 6, 7-7:45pm WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children can come dressed in their pajamas. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

Little Listeners FREE

WHEN: Jan. 11-25, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: Half Hollow Hills Community Library, 55 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Stories, songs, and a craft for children. WANT TO GO? 631-421-4530. hhhlibrary.org.

HOLIDAY FUN

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Let’s Celebrate the New Year!

Toddler Time FREE

WHEN: Through Jan. 2: daily, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Explore geometry and design your own Times Square Ball. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

Martin Luther King Day: Dream Big Workshop

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 16, 1pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about the diverse cultures that made up local whaling crews. See a Temple Iron, the harpoon that revolutionized whaling, invented by freed slave Lewis Temple; and sew a special My Dream pillow to take home. WANT TO GO? $5 with admission: $6; $5 children ages 4-18; free for children younger than 4. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Dreaming with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 16, 11am, 1pm, and 3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and learn about his life and teachings. Be inspired by his visions for peace, love, and unity and create a “stained glass” collage to commemorate him. WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Chinese New Year FREE

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 23, 7-8pm WHERE: Brentwood Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children will welcome the Lunar New Year, learn about the Chinese zodiacs, and make a craft using this year’s animal: the Rooster. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org.

A Bright New Year

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 28, 2pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Come celebrate the Year of the Rooster. Learn about the customs and celebrations surrounding this vibrant holiday. WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Lunar New Year

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 28, 2:30pm WHERE: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn the history of this holiday, play a good luck symbol match game, write “whale” in Chinese, and enjoy themed craft stations. WANT TO GO? $5 with admission: $6; $5 children ages 4-18; free for children younger than 4. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

Celebrate Groundhog Day

WHEN: Jan. 28-29, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Construct your own shadow puppets and make them dance. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 4, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 2 and younger WHAT: Make new friends, share a story, and take time to play. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Miss Riley’s Melodies FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 5, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: A fun musical experience for you and your little ones including movement, instrument play, and learning. Sign-up required. WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Music with Miss Lori FREE

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 6, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Come sing and dance with Miss Lori and her guitar as she celebrates the seasons. Sign-up required. WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Soccer Woddlers

WHEN: Through Jan. 7: Sundays, 10:15-11am WHERE: Heritage Center, 633 Mount Sinai Coram Road, Mount Sinai AGES: 3-5 WHAT: This program is designed to help introduce and continue the development of basic soccer skills. WANT TO GO? $50 for the five-week session. 631-384-8900. msheritagetrust.org.

Snowman Rock FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 10, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: Half Hollow Hills Community Library, 55 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children enjoy winter songs, fingerplays, dancing, and more. WANT TO GO? 631-421-4530. hhhlibrary.org.

Kids in the Kitchen

WHEN: Jan. 3-17, Tuesdays, 5-6pm WHERE: The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children learn how to make kosher dishes such as waffles and personal pizzas in a large state-of-the-art kitchen. Call or go online to register. WANT TO GO? $20 per class. 631-351-8672. thechaicenter.com.

Block Party FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 11-11:45am WHERE: Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., Brentwood AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Come to the library for constructive play. Play and build with a block collection while also building essential developmental skills. WANT TO GO? 631-273-7883. brentwoodnylibrary.org. ›› LongIslandParent 35

Hands-On History

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 12, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: The Long Island Museum, 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Gallery tour of the Carriage Museum in which students learn about 19th century transportation, followed by related craft project. Call x212 to register. WANT TO GO? $10. 631-751-0066. longislandmuseum.org.

Then and Now: An Afternoon of Local History FREE

SMARTY PANTS Long Island Whole Child Academy Saturdays

WHEN: Jan. 7-Feb. 11, Saturdays, 10am-12pm WHERE: Long Island Whole Child Academy School, 175 Wolf Hill Road, Melville AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Choose from several different modules including Flight Team, Martial Arts for Social Development, and the Science of Magic. WANT TO GO? $60 per 2 hour session. 347-668-3676.

Battle of the Books Meeting FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 3, 4-5pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Battle of the Books is an annual Suffolk County-wide competition in which teams of teens compete in a contest of trivia questions from three selected novels. Come to weekly practice sessions at the library to prepare for the competition on March 25. WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Braille Fest: Happy Birthday Louis Braille

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 7, 1-4:30pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Louis Braille was the inventor of a tactile system that assists blind and visually impaired people read and write. Learn about his life and invention through hands-on experiences. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Traveling Exhibit: Your House, My House

WHEN: Through Jan. 8: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: All WHAT: See how culture, climate, tradition, and geography influence the way a house is built. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Color Chromatography

WHEN: Jan. 7-8, Saturday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Break down colors to their chemical components for a peek inside what makes a color a color. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org. 36

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 15, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Connetquot Public Library, 760 Ocean Ave., Bohemia AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The film explores the origin and changes of the town of Bohemia from its beginnings to the present. WANT TO GO? 631-567-5079. connetquotlibrary.org.

Create an Ocean of Motion

WHEN: Jan. 14-16, Friday-Sunday, 1-5pm WHERE: Maritime Explorium, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Set things in motion using chemistry. WANT TO GO? $5. 631-331-3277. maritimeexplorium.org.

Air-Mazing Dynamos

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 21, 2-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Feel free to be silly and ridiculous as you design your own characters to test out our air-mazing wind tunnel. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org.

Lego Club

WHEN: Jan. 8-29, Sundays, 10am-12pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the East End, 376 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Children are encouraged to create original designs. They can leave their works-in-progress and plan future sessions with the staff. WANT TO GO? $12. 631-537-8250. cmee.org.

ANIMAL LOVERS Reading with Tara FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 5, 4-5pm WHERE: East Hampton Library, 159 Main St., East Hampton AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Children who are struggling with reading are invited to read to Tara, a certified therapy dog from Pet Partners. Pick your favorite book to read to this lovable dog. WANT TO GO? 631-324-0222. easthamptonlibrary.org.

Trout Birthday Party

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 8, 2-3pm WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Sing “Happy Birthday” to the baby trout! Birthday cake and refreshments for all. WANT TO GO? $6; $4 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 516-692-6768. cshfha.org.

Junior Zookeepers Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 14, 1-3pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and Learning, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Kids can learn the basics of animal care, including feeding, cleaning, and handling. WANT TO GO? $14 per child. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

Olate Dogs

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 14, 2pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington AGES: All WHAT: Led by Richard Olate and his son Nicholas Olate, the Olate Dogs are a high-energy, fast-paced canine theatrical act filled with amazing dog tricks, human acrobatics, and humor. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 516-767-6444. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

My Decade Amongst the Seals of Cupsogue Beach FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 19, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Connetquot Public Library, 760 Ocean Ave., Bohemia AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Watch a pictorial overview of the seals of New York and the 12-year study of harbor site fidelity at Cupsogue Beach. WANT TO GO? 631-567-5079. connetquotlibrary.org.

‘Into the Deep’ Film Screening

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2pm WHERE: Westhampton Beach Elementary School, 301 Main St., Westhampton Beach AGES: All WHAT: Explore America’s 400-year enthrallment with whales and whaling’s impact on the world in this 2010 Ric Burns documentary. WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children ages 4-18; free for children younger than 4. 631-367-3418. cshwhalingmuseum.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS Sensational Kids Open Play Time

WHEN: Through Jan. 30: Mondays, 5-7pm WHERE: Bounce Trampoline Sports, 310 Michael Drive, Syosset AGES: All WHAT: These evenings are tailored to create a more secure environment for individuals with autism. Bounce! staff members have experience working with children and individuals with special needs and have received sensitivity training from the Elija School. WANT TO GO? $12 per hour. 516-762-1300. bouncesyosset.com.

Sky Zone Cares

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Mondays, 3-6pm WHERE: Sky Zone Deer Park, 111 Rodeo Drive, Deer Park AGES: All WHAT: Each first Monday of the month for children and adults with special needs, Sky Zone dials down the music, increases the staff ratio, and limits capacity. WANT TO GO? $16 per hour. 631-392-2600. skyzone.com/deerpark.

Special Olympics Bowling at the All Star

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

Coming up next month: FEB 4: Art Workshops for Kids in Grades K-5 at Guild Hall, East Hampton STARTING FEB. 5: Peter Pan at Bayway Arts Center, East Islip FEB 11: Light Keepers Behind the Scenes Tour at the Fire Island Lighthouse, Bay Shore

LongIslandParent 37

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Ski & Snowboard

Research by Jonathan Perry

›› and Kathryn Sheridan

Slice across the snowy slopes this winter with the entire family. Whether your little ones are hitting the bunny slope for the first time or you’ve got an experienced snow leopard navigating tricky trails, a mountain getaway offers winter charm, activities to keep you moving through the cold, and fun for the whole bunch. Almost all mountains and resorts offer lessons for skiing and snowboarding, so don’t be shy! Please note: We recommend checking snow conditions before visiting any of the mountains listed here. black diamond, a terrain park, and tubing. Offers free beginner lessons on weekends and holidays with the purchase of a lift ticket (for ages 5 and older). There’s also a Tiny Tots program for children ages 4 and younger (must be potty trained), which includes a lesson, equipment rental, lift ticket, and hot chocolate. Ski racing program for ages 6-18.

snow tubing, and ice-skating. Beginner lessons available. Thursday and Saturday nights (5-8pm) are Family Nights, with reduced lift ticket and rental pricing. Friday night is Family Tubing Night. On Tuesday nights (5-9pm), buy any lift ticket and get another at half price.

Plattekill Mountain 469 Plattekill Mountain Road, Roxbury 607-326-3500; plattekill.com Features 38 trails and a terrain park. Child care on weekends and holidays for children ages 6 months and older; group ski lessons for kids as young as 4. Lift-serviced snow tubing on weekends and holidays; children must be at least 3 feet tall. Kids younger than 7 ski free. Lift tickets are reduced to $20 from Jan. 29-31, and the first 50 skiers or riders get a $25 lift ticket on the following dates: Jan. 6, Feb. 3, and March 3. Roundtrip bus service available from New York metro area locations via Adirondack Trailways (trailwaysny.com) and online via skedaddle.com.

Catamount State Route 23 E., Hillsdale 518-325-3200 catamountski.com Has 36 trails, seven lifts including a summit quad chairlift, five terrain parks, and a novice area for beginning boarders. Fourth- and fifth-graders ski free on weekends and holidays with a paying adult (registration and $25 processing fee required). Season passes available: $510 adults; $440 children ages 7-13; $170 for children ages 6 and younger.

Hunter Mountain Route 23A, Hunter 518-263-4223; huntermtn.com Spans three mountains and includes 58 trails and 10 lifts. Programs for kids include Mighty Mights (ski only) for ages 5-6 and Junior Adventure (snowboarding and skiing) for ages 7-12. Snow tubing for those 42 inches and taller on Friday evenings and weekends. Mini Park for those shorter than 42 inches. Day care available for children ages 6 months to 6 years on weekends (Friday-Sunday) and during school holidays. Several bus services offer round-trip transportation from the New York metro area; see website for details.

Rocking Horse Ranch 600 Route 44/55, Highland GPS address: 13 Pancake Hollow Road, Highland 845-691-2927 rockinghorseranch.com A family resort that includes downhill skiing, snow tubing, horse-drawn sleigh ridges, timber shoots, and ice-skating. Best for the ski “dabbler.” Offers beginner classes (in the Never Ever Area) and free equipment rentals (snowboards not available) with your stay. All-inclusive packages available. Free pickup service available from the Amtrak train station in Poughkeepsie and Stewart International Airport in Newburgh.

Holiday Mountain Ski and Fun Park 99 Holiday Mountain Road, Monticello 845-796-3161; holidaymtn.com Boasts seven trails, four lifts, night skiing,

Mount Peter 51 Old Mount Peter Road, Warwick 845-986-4940; mtpeter.com Has nearly a dozen trails, from beginner to

Thunder Ridge Ski Area 137 Birch Hill Road, Patterson 845-878-4100; thunderridgeski.com Boasts 22 trails with many slow and gentle

Southeast New York Belleayre Mountain 181 Galli Curci Road, Highmount 845-254-5600; belleayre.com Features 50 trails, parks, and glades. Offers ski and snowboard lessons for kids ages 4-6, 7-12, and 13 and older. Round-trip bus service from NYC via Adirondack Trailways (trailwaysny.com) includes lift ticket and luggage lock-up.

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

slopes for beginners and intermediates. Has a ski racing program for kids ages 6-19. On weekends and holidays through March 12, you can take the Metro-North ski train to Patterson station ($61.50; $44 seniors; $49.50 children ages 12 and older; $25 children ages 6-11; $12 children age 5; $10 for children younger than 5) and a the free shuttle to Thunder Ridge. Ticket includes all-day/all-night lift ticket (night skiing not available on Sundays) and a $5 discount on rental equipment.

Connecticut fourth-graders get three free lift tickets ($10 processing fee). Discounted tickets for beginners; free lift tickets for children ages 4 and younger (with purchase of accompanying adult ticket). Mount Southington 396 Mount Vernon Road, Plantsville 860-628-0954 mountsouthington.com Features 14 trails, most of which

are beginner and intermediate level, and two terrain parks. Ski Threes, for parents and 3-yearolds, introduces toddlers to skiing while teaching parents to use tip connectors and harnesses while skiing (registration required). Introductory ski lessons for ages 4-10 are offered on weekends and holidays. Private ski and snowboard instruction also available.

Powder Ridge Ski 99 Powder Hill Road, Middlefield 866-860-0208 powderridgepark.com Features 19 trails and four terrain parks, plus snowtubing and snow biking. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced lessons for kids and adults, as well as lessons for ages 3-5. Accessible via the MetroNorth train to Bridgeport.

Find the full guide at â&#x20AC;şâ&#x20AC;ş nymetroparents.com/ski

Windham Mountain 19 Resort Drive, Windham 800-754-9463 windhammountain.com Nearly 50 trails and six terrain parks (for beginner to expert riders), plus a Mountaintop Adventure Park with iceskating, snow tubing, two rope tows, and two zip lines. Ski and riding programs for kids ages 4-12 (private lessons for kids as young as 3). Lessons for children with disabilities are offered through the Adaptive Sports Foundation (call 518-734-5070 for more information). Child care is available. Bus service available from NYC via Adirondack Trailways (trailwaysny.com).

Connecticut Mohawk Mountain Ski Area 46 Great Hollow Road, Cornwall 860-672-6100 mohawkmtn.com The Parent & Tots program teaches parents (who must be at least intermediate-level skiers) how to ski safely with their 4-year-old children, while the children learn to ski; available Wednesdays at 1:30pm, weekends, and holidays (registration required). Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids as young as 5, as well as adaptive lessons for children with special needs. Ski racing program for ages 6-14. LongIslandParent 39

Great for Leftovers

››

Each of these recipes makes enough for two servings, plus enough for two servings of a leftover twist. By Elana Karp and Suzanne Dumaine Creamy polenta with mushroom ragoût and the polenta cakes with fried eggs that can be made with the leftovers (inset)

Creamy Polenta with Mushroom Ragoût

Using a mix of fresh and dried mushrooms in sauces and soups is ideal; fresh provide meaty texture and heartiness, while dried bring concentrated flavor, released when they’re reconstituted. You could use this ragoût over pasta, but we particularly like the way this dish can became an all-in-one leftover: Mix ragoût into polenta, let it harden, then fry it in olive oil. Enjoy it any time of day. Ingredients 1 cup water ½ cup dried porcini mushrooms 6 sprigs fresh thyme 1½ pounds mixed fresh mushrooms (we like cremini, oyster, and shiitake) 2 shallots ¼ bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter ½ cup white wine 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock 2 cups whole milk 2 cups polenta ¹⁄³ cup grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions 1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil over high heat. As soon as it comes to a boil, add the dried mushrooms, remove from heat, and soak for approximately 10 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, strip the thyme leaves from the stems. Cut the fresh mushrooms into ¼-inch slices. Thinly slice the shallots. Roughly chop the parsley leaves. 3. Drain the dried mushrooms, reserving the soaking liquid. Roughly chop and pat dry. 4. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the dried and fresh mushrooms in a single layer and immediately season with salt and pepper. Cook without moving until beginning to crisp, 3-4 minutes. Add the butter, thyme, and shallots. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring, until the mushrooms are tender and browning and the shallots are softened, approximately 5 minutes. 40

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

5. Add the wine, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer until the wine is reduced by half, approximately 3 minutes. Add the reserved mushroom-soaking liquid to the pan and continue to simmer until reduced by half, 3-4 minutes longer. Reduce the heat to low and keep warm until ready to serve. 6. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, bring the chicken stock, milk, and a large pinch of salt to a boil over high heat. As soon as the liquid is boiling, while whisking, slowly add the polenta. Immediately reduce the heat to as low as possible and whisk slowly and continuously until the polenta is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed (cooking time may vary; check package instructions). Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheese. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. 7. Taste the ragoût and add salt and pepper as needed. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the parsley. 8. To serve, divide half the polenta evenly between two bowls and top with half the ragoût. Note: Stir the remaining polenta and ragoût together to save as leftovers. Spread into an even layer in a medium baking dish and store, covered, in the fridge for up to 4 days. Leftovers: Polenta Cakes with Fried Eggs Ingredients Leftover polenta with mushroom ragoût, chilled 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 2 large eggs Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions 1. Cut the chilled polenta into 3-inch squares. In a large nonstick pan, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the polenta cakes in a single layer and

cook until browned and warmed through, approximately 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. 2. Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the same pan over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and season with salt and pepper. Fry without moving until the whites are set, 2-3 minutes. Slide the fried eggs over the polenta cakes and eat hot. Cheffy Nugget: Polenta has two possible textures: creamy and delicious or totally solid. Make sure you have everything else ready before beginning to cook the polenta; you’ll want to eat it as soon as it comes off the stove.

Garlicky Shrimp Stir-Fry with Shiitakes and Bok Choy

Rice is pretty much the perfect leftover—in fact, we love purposely making too much, just so we can repurpose it the next day. The steamed rice in this stir-fry is perfect for mopping up sauce, but once the rice dries out, it’s no longer a moisture sponge. In the leftover fried rice dish, it crisps up, becoming the star feature. Ingredients 1½ cups jasmine or basmati rice 2½ cups water 4 baby bok choy 4 cloves garlic 1 pound shiitake mushrooms 1-inch knob fresh ginger ½ cup chicken or vegetable stock

1 tsp. cornstarch 1 Tbsp. mirin 2 Tbsp. sesame oil ½ tsp. crushed red pepper 1½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions 1. In a medium pot, combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. As soon as the water comes to a boil, stir once, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 12 minutes, covered, then remove from the heat. Keep covered and allow to steam for at least 10 minutes. 2. While the rice cooks, cut the bok choy crosswise into ½-inch slices, keeping the leaves and stalks separate. Mince the garlic. Stem the shiitakes and thinly slice the caps. Peel and mince the ginger. In a small bowl, whisk together the stock, cornstarch, and mirin. 3. In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the bok choy stalks and shiitakes, spreading into a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook without moving until starting to brown on the bottom, 2-3 minutes. Stir and cook EVENTS until softening, 2-3 ACTIVITIES MORE minutes. Add the crushed red pepper, garlic, ginger, and bok choy leaves and stir to combine. Cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Season the shrimp on both sides with salt and pepper. Add to the vegetables and cook until just pink, 1-2 minutes per side. 4. Push all the ingredients to the outer edges of the pan. Pour the stock mixture into the center, and simmer until thickened, approximately 2 minutes. Stir everything together to combine and coat, then remove the pan from the heat. Taste the stir-fry and add salt and pepper as needed. 5. Uncover the rice and fluff with a fork. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. 6. To serve, top the rice with the stir-fry.

BAKSHI LAW C. Lara Bakshi

Special Needs Attorney & Special Education Specialist Providing a clear road map of the law and zealously advocating for you and your child.

WINNING Record against DOE & Districts Winning record at due process hearings including failure to provide FAPE and tuition reimbursement.

SPECIALIZING in disciplinary matters for both special needs and general education students. Suspensions • Expulsions • Manifestation • Determination Hearings

CALL 917-244-6133 to set up a consultation

305 Broadway, 14th Fl., NY, NY 10007 Sliding Scale Depending on Income

lara.bakshi@gmail.com • www.lawbakshi.com Servicing Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties), NYC Boroughs, Westchester, Rockland and Upstate NY

Long Island’s Premier Lice Treatment Centers

866-561-0492

Oceanside

2463 S. Long Beach Rd.

Deer Park

$10 OFF One HeadCheck OR 10% OFF One Treatment

1755 Deer Park Ave.

Glen Head

679 Glen Cove Ave.

www.FairyLiceMothers.com

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

Join

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

Find the Garlicky Shrimp Stir-Fry leftover twist, plus a spaghetti squash recipe and leftover twist at

Join

›› nymetroparents.com/plated.

NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities,

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents LongIslandParent 41

Why Are Boys Failing?

››

How current societal norms are contributing to boys falling behind—in school and in life By Jaimie Seaton

very day after school Peter comes home, drops his backpack and heads to his room to grab his laptop. Before he even gets a snack, he’s logged on and surfing between YouTube and his favorite video games. Unless an adult intervenes, he’ll spend the rest of his afternoon locked in an online trance. Peter is not unlike most 13-year-old boys in this country. Instead of heading to the ball field after school, or hanging out with friends, Peter spends his afternoons online. If he has homework he does exactly what’s required, never more. He gets A’s and B’s but has been conditioned to believe that learning is a means to an end (doing well on tests) and not a means in itself. He’s rare in that he enjoys reading for fun, but views reading as an activity to pursue when he’s not able to get online, not as a pleasurable way to spend his leisure time. In many ways Peter is the quintessential modern boy, and that’s the problem, according to Leonard Sax, M.D., Ph.D., a primary care physician in Maryland, and the author of four books, including Boys Adrift: The Five Factors Driving the Growing Epidemic of Unmotivated Boys and Underachieving Young Men. The 2009 book was updated and re-released this year, and examines why boys are less ambitious and less resilient than they were 20 years ago. Dr. Sax argues that a combination of social, cultural, and biological factors has created a toxic environment that leaves boys disengaged from school, less likely to go to college (and of those

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

who do, less likely to earn a degree), and more apt to live with their parents as adults. Currently, one-third of men ages 22-34 are still living at home, which is a nearly 100-percent increase in the past 20 years. Meanwhile, the proportion of girls who are anxious and depressed has at least quadrupled; it’s risen at a much higher rate than the rate for boys. “I need to stress that girls are not the winners here,” Dr. Sax says. Between the book’s initial release and the revision this year, the problem has only got worse, according to Dr. Sax. “We now have a great deal more research showing the growing gender gap in academic achievement—with boys falling further and further behind—not because girls are doing better, but because boys are doing worse,” Dr. Sax says. “If the gender gap was growing because girls were doing better, that wouldn’t be a problem. That would be cause for celebration.” Dr. Sax says the gap is evident in many parameters, both formal and informal. For instance, girls are less likely to read for fun in their spare time than they were 30 years ago. But American boys have practically stopped reading for fun. “The gender gap widened not because girls are reading more but because boys stopped reading,” Dr. Sax says.

Contributions to the Decline

A number of factors have contributed to the situation, including a cultural shift in which political sensibilities have infiltrated the

household, leaving Americans uncomfortable with the notion of authority, the decline of masculine role models, the need to make schools more boy-friendly, misguided parenting, and an over-reliance on pharmaceuticals to control children, according to Dr. Sax. “American parents are now parenting their kids badly, compared to other countries. An American kid is now fourteen times more likely to be on medication for ADD compared to a kid in the U.K. An American kid is forty times more likely to be on medication for bipolar disorder than a kid in Germany. In this country we use schizophrenia medications to keep kids from having temper tantrums. There’s been a collapse of parenting in the United States,” Dr. Sax says. Parents are grappling with challenges not faced by their parents, particularly the proliferation of screens and social media. We learn to parent from our own parents, and if we can’t draw on experience, we look to our peers for guidance. The problem with this approach, according to Dr. Sax, is many parents don’t have a clue what they’re doing. “I encourage parents to turn off the screens,” Dr. Sax says. “We have a great deal of research showing the more time kids spend in front of a screen, the less engaged they are in the real world. We have very substantial evidence that finds that screens actively undermine kids’ ability to concentrate and focus.” The American Academy of Pediatrics recently came out with new guidelines, recommending no more than 40 minutes of screen-time a night during the week and 1 hour on weekends. Even if parents turn off the screens at home, however, a growing number of students are looking at screens in school. “I think a big piece of it is too much technology in their daily lives, there’s such a rush to get the technology into the classrooms,” says Greg Stott, an eighth-grade science teacher at the Francis C. Richmond School in Hanover, NH, where students have individual iPads. “The students look to that for stimulation, and when that’s not provided, they don’t know what to do.” “I’m not a fan of the iPad program. Parents can limit screen time at home, but we’re not thinking that maybe we should limit screen time here at school,” Stott says. He added that students are less willing to solve problems, and that boys in particular either don’t know how to begin or simply give up. Girls tend to be more meticulous, more patient; girls typically do better overall because they do better work. Boys tend to be more impulsive, get it done quickly, and don’t go back and check their work. “This generation of young adults seems to be expecting stuff and when it doesn’t come through, they’re at a loss of what to do, and maybe that’s why a lot of them move back home and don’t have the motivation to get out,” Stott says. Peter Gray, Ph.D., research professor in the department of psychology at Boston College, has seen a profound lack of resilience among college students, which he attributes to the change in parenting and education methods over the past 50 years. Part of the problem, he says, is children are not left to their own devices to play outside, to push their own limits, and to get into situations or conflicts with other children that they must solve. “Children are almost always in the presence of adults. They’re not getting into trouble and out of trouble, and negotiating with their playmates. We’re depriving children of free play, and we’re seeing the consequence of that in college stu-

dents,” says Dr. Gray, author of Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life. Paradoxically, though “helicopter parenting” has turned out kids who are unable to cope with the slightest set back at college (a fight with a roommate or a bad grade, for instance). Parents have ceded their power to their kids because of their own discomfort with authority. Too many parents today are asking their children what they want—from meals to vacations—rather than setting the rules.

Closing the Gap

A look at television shows from the 1950s and ’60s offers a glimpse at an important difference between parenting styles then and now: Children in those shows are free to play on their own (both in and out of school) and often get into sticky situations. Indeed, many plots turn on the child doing something reckless and learning a valuable lesson as a result. In today’s hyper-vigilant world, children have fewer and fewer opportunities to challenge themselves through play. No where is this more evident than at school, where the fear of litigation has turned playgrounds into outdoor gym classes, where adults closely supervise play, and many kids stand idly looking at their phones. “Over the last forty years education changed in multiple ways, and schools became less friendly to boys,” Dr. Sax says. “Are kids allowed to throw snow balls on school grounds during school hours? No. We used to throw snowballs and the teachers would come out and join us. Today if a kid starts throwing snowballs a teacher comes running out to stop him.” Dr. Sax says there is a better way that costs nothing. He suggests making the football field the designated snowball throwing zone, where both boys and girls can choose to participate, or holding a tournament with teachers setting up targets and letting the kids compete. He added that boys’ behavior must be channeled and it extends to the classroom. For instance, he says many boys like to write violent stories. An acceptable story might be a generic depiction of violence that suits the period being written about (Roman gladiators, for example). Writing a story depicting personal or threatening violence is out of bounds. “Boys understand in bounds versus out of bounds very well,” Dr. Sax says. There’s been so much concern about gender parity in schools that we’ve thrown the baby out with the bathwater. Dr. Sax says gender is complicated but it doesn’t mean gender doesn’t matter. “What boys need to get excited about school is different from what girls need, and if you don’t understand that, you end up with what we have, which is a lot of boys who think school is just for girls,” Dr. Sax says. “If we don’t turn the tide we’ll have boys who are less likely to be engaged in the real world and more likely to be looking at their screens, and less likely to fulfill their potential.” Jaimie Seaton has been a journalist for more than 20 years, and is the former Thailand correspondent for Newsweek. Her work on divorce, parenting, dating, and a wide range of topics has been featured in the Washington Post, the Guardian, Glamour, and numerous other publications. Follow her on Twitter @JaimieSeaton.

LongIslandParent 43

Meet The

DIRECTOR Building Blocks Developmental Preschool

29 Pinewood Drive, Commack 631-499-1237 bbdps.com Donna M. Charbonneau holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s in applied psychology from Adelphi University, a professional diploma in school district administration from Dowling College, and New York state certifications as a school psychologist and school district administrator. She began her tenure at Building Blocks as a school psychologist, and served as the ongoing service coordinator for early intervention students. She assumed the role of co-director in 1998, and executive director in 2012, where she continues to ensure delivery of the highest quality educational services to all students.

Kenwal Day Camp

100 Drexel Ave., Melville 631-694-3399 kenwaldaycamp.com Dena and “Uncle Howie” Feinstein (brother and sister) are still the two biggest “kids” in the camping industry. “As adults, safety is always our first concern. Once the children are safe, we just want them to have the time of their lives,” they say. “We are in the summer camp business because we love the children! Watching the campers grow, building their self-esteem, and helping them make new friends is just a small part of what we achieve each summer!”

Long Island Lutheran Day School

106 Vernon Valley Road, East Northport 631-754-4424 x224 longislandlutheran.org admissions@ludaynorthport.org Michelle (Shelly) Marino is the principal at Long Island Lutheran Day School at St. Paul’s. Prior to that she was an award-winning educator in the Huntington Union Free School District, serving for more than 30 years, and the principal of Huntington’s Southdown Primary School. Shelly was also the founder and director of the Discovery Program for Creative Exploration in the Arts at Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts. Shelly holds a Master of Science degree specializing in elementary education, and holds a permanent teacher certification from Dowling College.

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Picasso Kidz, Creative Art Studio For Children

72 Broadway, Greenlawn 631-261-5500 picassokidz.com picassokidzart@gmail.com Michelle Daddino is the owner of Picasso Kidz, a creative art studio for kids ages 4-17. As a New York state-certified art teacher, she taught elementary art for eight years. Michelle worked endlessly to create lessons that not only taught children skills and art history, but engaged them as well. Three of her art lessons are published in popular art teaching magazines (Scholastic Arts, and Arts and Activities). Michelle’s teaching philosophy is to provide every student with a well-rounded art education in order to create creative, culturally aware, analytic thinkers.

Tumbling Tunes

212 Laurel Road, East Northport 631-697-0140 tumblingtunes.com tumblingtunes@gmail.com Tumbling Tunes, founded by instructor Kerry Anastasi, developed from a passion for teaching and seeing children succeed. Mrs. Anastasi has a master’s in early childhood education, a bachelor’s in musical theater, and more than 10 years of gymnastics training. As practiced with her own children, she believes that self-esteem gained through positive experiences can lead to a lifetime of achievement. The many classes offered at Tumbling Tunes aim to foster in children a love for physical activity and the arts. Please see the website tumblingtunes.com for more information.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 844-824-9790 usdan.com In October 2015, Lauren Brandt Schloss became executive director of Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts. With her appointment, she became Usdan’s third leader in a half century. With 20 years of experience in arts education at the Queens Museum, MoMA, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, she is committed to ensuring that Usdan is at the forefront of educational and artistic practices. Ms. Schloss earned a B.A. in art history from Princeton University and an M.A. in arts administration from Columbia University.

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 Tobi J. Phillips, Ed.D. (certified), is the founder and director of Village East Gifted Inc., an after-school enrichment program for gifted and talented students ages 4-16. The teachers utilize Ms. Phillips’ RBM™ teaching approach to engage its students in advanced studies in all academic subjects. Since its inception in 2007, more than 400 students have enrolled in VEG programs. Ms. Phillips enjoys sharing her diverse skills, interests, and life experiences with her students through her teaching styles, challenging and unique curriculum ideas, and her creative approach to learning.

Professional services

Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals. DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS 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 Dr. Serino has been in practice with Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry since 1984. He is a member of the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, is on the attending staff at St. Charles Hospital, and has taught at the School of Dental Medicine at Stony Brook. DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS PEDIATRIC IMMEDIATE CARE 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-ofthe-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted.

LEGAL SERVICES BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE, and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale. LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C. 1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child is entitled to under law. .

SPECIAL NEEDS

BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com

lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE, and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale. 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. LAW OFFICES OF BRAD H. ROSKEN, P.L.L.C. 1772 E. Jericho Turnpike, Suite 2, Huntington 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He’s also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child is entitled to under law.

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

TUTORS & TEST PREP

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.

Want to know the best

activities for families? Subscribe to our family activity

email newsletter

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER LongIslandParent 45

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT MAD SCIENCE OF LONG ISLAND Call for locations throughout Long Island: 516-620-6768 madscienceli.com info@madscienceli.com Mad Science hands-on, high-energy parties are performed by a trained Mad Scientist who brings all the necessary equipment to your home or location of your choice. 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 30,000 square feet of fun including 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, roller coaster, a carousel, disco room, and laser tag! BOUNCEU FARMINGDALE 101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com BounceU Farmingdale was voted “Best of Long Island” for Children’s Party Place and Family Amusement Center. We

provide the ideal combination of inflatable structures, a clean environment, incredible customer service, and non-stop excitement in a private party atmosphere. COLD SPRING HARBOR FISH HATCHERY & AQUARIUM 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfha.org steved@cshfha.org Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium! See the Hatchery & Aquarium’s exciting live exhibits. Feed the hungry trout and learn about fish, reptiles, and amphibians with an 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! KEY TO MY ART INC. 10 W. Oak St., Amityville 631-608-9048 keytomyart.com At Key to My Art, we have a birthday party package to fit all budgets. The guest of honor picks the theme, and we provide the instruction so that each guest leaves with a masterpiece!

C O L L E G E AT O L D W E S T B U R Y F A R M I N G D A L E S TAT E C O L L E G E S T. J O E ’ S C O L L E G E P AT C H O G U E S O U T H A M P T O N AT N O R T H S E A P A R K

20+camps 516.876.3490 or 631.609.0438 46

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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

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! PICASSO KIDZ, CREATIVE ART STUDIO FOR CHILDREN 72 Broadway, Greenlawn 631-261-5500 picassokidz.com picassokidzart@gmail.com Picasso Kidz puts the “ART” in pARTy! Birthdays at Picasso Kidz are truly unique and memorable. We have many packages and options to choose from for ages 2-17. SAFARI ADVENTURE 1074 Pulaski St., Riverhead 631-727-4386 thesafariadventure.com dan@thesafariadventure.com Safari Adventure is Long’s Island’s premier family fun center and birthday party place. Fun for the whole family with inflatables, four-level soft playground, arcade, interactive floor games, and a full café!

Summer 2017 Enroll Early

WEEKLY SESSIONS SPORTS & SPECIALTY PROGRAMS

fscamps.com

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. TUMBLING TUNES 212 Laurel Road, East Northport 631-697-0140 tumblingtunes.com tumblingtunes@gmail.com Tumbling Tunes specializes in parties for children ages 1-6. Our parties consist of music, movement, games, gymnastics, and free play tailored to your child’s age and ability. 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 at which children can explore their creativity in culinary arts.

OPEN HOUSES 2017 Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island

Diocese of Rockville Centre 128 Cherry Lane, Hicksville 516-678-5800 drvcschools.org Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 29-Feb. 4, is the best opportunity of the year to attend an open house to learn about the lifelong advantages of a Catholic education.

Holy Angels Regional School

1 Division St., Patchogue 631-475-2641 holyangelsregional.org mmulderrig@holyangelsregional.org Join us for an open house on Sunday, Jan. 29 from 1:30-3:30pm.

BEST BIRTHDAY PARTIES IN TOWN! Book your Party NOW!

•• Gymnastics Gymnastics && Music Class Music Classes •• Mommy Me Mommy &&Me •• Drop Shop Drop &&Shop •• Birthday Parties Birthday Parties •• Craft Classes Craft Classes •• Parents’ Night Out Parents’ Night Out •• Summer Play DatesCamp

FREE TRIAL

Ages 6 m onths to 9 years ww w.tumblingtunes.com 212 Laurel Road East Northport, NY 11731 631-697-0140

Long Island High School for the Arts

239 Cold Spring Road, Syosset 516-622-5678 nassauboces.org/lihsa Join us for an open house on Feb. 4 from 10am–2pm.

Long Island Lutheran Day School

106 Vernon Valley Road, East Northport 631-754-4424 x224 longislandlutheran.org admissions@ludaynorthport.org Thursday, Jan. 12 from 9-10am tour LuDay where students ages 2 through fifth grade discover their true potential while building a strong spiritual, academic, and social foundation.

Our Lady of Mercy Regional School

27685 NY-25, Cutchogue 631-734-5166 olmregional.org Join us for an open house on Sunday, Jan. 29 from 1–3pm.

St. Isidore School

Want to know the Best Activities St. Mary School for Families?

Want to know the Best Activities for Families?

Subscribe to our family activity email newsletter. Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

Subscribe to our family activity email newsletter.

515 Marcy Ave., Riverhead 631-727-1650 sisriverhead.com Join us for an open house Sunday, Jan. 29 from 1-3pm. Welcome Wednesday tours are available by appointment.

16 Harrison Ave., East Islip 631-581-3423 stmaryschoolei.org Tours are always available; open house Saturday, Jan. 28 from 1-3pm.

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 844-824-9790 usdan.com Young artists flourish at Usdan. Be part of a Usdan visit and information session: Jan. 8, Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, and May 7.

NYMetroParents.com/register LongIslandParent 47

Want to know

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.

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

Dr. Muneer Imam and Dr. Michael Gruttadauria are heading up 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.

Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics 1000 F. Park Blvd., Massapequa Park 516-798-1111 62 Lake Ave. S., Suite A, Nesconset 631-360-PEDS (7337) 615 Montauk Highway, West Islip 631-661-PEDS (7337) ampediatricdental.com; adelbergped@optonline.net

We are Drs. Adelberg, Montalvan, Bennet, Pistilli, Postel, Schecter, and Abraham. Our purpose is to provide outstanding dentistry in a child- and family-friendly environment. We treat your family like they are our own. All of our doctors are board-certified specialists and offer the most combined laser dentistry experience on Long Island. We want your visit to our office to be an extraordinary experience, that will make you say, “Wow!” Our three offices even look like a theme park. We hope to make your children love visiting the dentist.

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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 Dr. Serino has been in practice with Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry since 1984. He is a native Long Islander. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from C.W. Post College. He received his D.D.S. degree at the Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Serino did his pediatric specialty training at Brookdale Hospital, where he was chief resident. Dr. Serino is a past president of the New York State Pediatric Dental Society. He is a member of the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, is on the attending staff at St. Charles Hospital, and has taught at the School of Dental Medicine at Stony Brook. He is an avid skier and lives in the Port Jefferson area with his family.

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

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

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

AD INDEX

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

ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS

Hagedorn Little Village School....................................... 23

PLAY SPACES

Tumbling Tunes........................................................ 44, 47

Holy Angels Regional School......................................... 24

BounceU - Farmingdale................................................. 15

Huntington Learning Center........................................... 11 BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES

Law Offices of Brad H Rosken....................................... 25

BounceU - Farmingdale................................................. 15

LI Lutheran Day School at St. Pauls......................... 21, 44

Picasso Kidz............................................................. 13, 44

LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................ 27

Diocese of Rockville Centre........................................... 52

Tumbling Tunes........................................................ 44, 47

Nassau Boces Educational Foundation.......................... 25

Holy Angels Regional School......................................... 24

Our Lady of Mercy Regional School............................... 24

LI Lutheran Day School at St. Pauls......................... 21, 44

CAMPS

St. Isidore Catholic Elementary School.......................... 21

Future Stars - Old Westbury........................................... 46

St. Mary School.............................................................. 21

Kenwal Day Camp...................................................... 7, 44

Village East Gifted...................................................... 5, 44

Sportime......................................................................... 17 Tumbling Tunes........................................................ 44, 47 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts.............................. 2, 44 YMCA of Long Island........................................................ 9 Young People’s Day Camp............................................. 27

CHILD CARE / DAY CARE YMCA of Long Island........................................................ 9

LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................................ 27

St. Isidore Catholic Elementary School.......................... 21

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS BounceU - Farmingdale................................................. 15

SPECIAL NEEDS

Ski Butternut..................................................................... 9

Adelberg Montalvan - Massapequa Office..................... 48

Smithtown Performing Arts Center................................. 25

Bakshi Law..................................................................... 41

Smugglers’ Notch Resort................................................ 39

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool............... 25, 44

FAMILY TRAVEL

Smugglers’ Notch Resort................................................ 39

C.I.I.T. Center........................................................... 11, 48 Dr. Ellen T. Richer........................................................... 47 Hagedorn Little Village School....................................... 23

FITNESS CLASSES

Our Lady of Mercy Regional School............................... 24

St. Mary School.............................................................. 21

LI Lutheran Day School at St. Pauls......................... 21, 44 Nassau Boces Educational Foundation.......................... 25

RELIGIOUS

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

Huntington Learning Center........................................... 11 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.................. 17, 48

Picasso Kidz............................................................. 13, 44

HEALTH

Law Offices of Brad H Rosken....................................... 25

Sportime......................................................................... 17

Adelberg Montalvan - Massapequa Office..................... 48

Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County.......................... 3, 48

Tower Talent - Melville.................................................... 27

C.I.I.T. Center........................................................... 11, 48

Village East Gifted...................................................... 5, 44

Pediatric Immediate Care......................................... 13, 48

Fairy LiceMothers........................................................... 41 Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County.......................... 3, 48

DEVELOPMENTAL

Pediatric Immediate Care......................................... 13, 48

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool............... 25, 44

Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics...................... 48

C.I.I.T. Center........................................................... 11, 48

Picasso Kidz............................................................. 13, 44 Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics...................... 48

SPORTS

Dr. Ellen T. Richer........................................................... 47

LEGAL SERVICES

Hagedorn Little Village School....................................... 23

Bakshi Law..................................................................... 41

Huntington Learning Center........................................... 11

Future Stars - Old Westbury........................................... 46 Kenwal Day Camp...................................................... 7, 44 Sportime......................................................................... 17

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.................. 17, 48

MUSIC

Law Offices of Brad H Rosken....................................... 25

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts.............................. 2, 44

EDUCATION

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING

Bakshi Law..................................................................... 41

Nassau Boces Educational Foundation.......................... 25

Building Blocks Developmental Preschool............... 25, 44

Smithtown Performing Arts Center................................. 25

Diocese of Rockville Centre........................................... 52

Tower Talent - Melville.................................................... 27

TUTORS

Dr. Ellen T. Richer........................................................... 47

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts.............................. 2, 44

Village East Gifted...................................................... 5, 44

THEATER

Smithtown Performing Arts Center................................. 25

LongIslandParent 49

Courtesy Judy Koutsky

VOICES

The author and her children swim with the dolphins on a recent trip.

Is My Babysitter Doing a Better Job Than Me? ›› Though my sons’ caregivers can sometimes seem to be better role models than me, that doesn’t mean I am a bad parent. By Judy Koutsky

ork has been super busy lately, so we recently tried out some new babysitters. When I asked my sons afterward what they thought of the new recruits, they said they didn’t like any of them. I was worried: Were the babysitters doing something wrong? Were they being mean? Were they not parenting the way I would parent? I asked my kids to give me examples of why they disliked those babysitters. My older son said that one babysitter “forced” him to eat his dinner. “How?” I asked. “Did she physically force open your mouth?” He thought about it, paused, and said, “Well, no, but she wouldn’t let me watch the rest of my TV show until I promised to finish half my fruit and veggies and eat three more bites of chicken.” Other atrocities? “At bedtime,” my younger son chimed in, “she’s so mean.” Again, I asked for details. “She gave me a fiveminute warning to go to the bathroom, get a glass of water, and find my favorite book. Then at exactly eight o’clock, she said lights out!” he exclaimed. “You always lay with us for a long time and when you tell us just one book you often read many, many more.” So it turns out the “mean” babysitters were making my kids eat healthy, stick to rules I implemented, and were consistent. Hmmm, what does that say about me? I started to feel bad, as if I wasn’t parenting correctly. Why were the babysitters able to get my kids to do things that I let slide? I think one of the biggest changes in parenting today is that we parents are so much more involved in our kids’ lives day to day. I grew up 1 of 6 kids, and my mom made sure we had a family dinner (homemade) each night at 6. But parents didn’t get as involved in every little detail in their kids’ lives. I need a babysitter, because in addition to working, I’m full-on with the kids. That includes being class parent for both of my boys (planning class parties, organizing field trips and volunteers,

and making sure everything runs smoothly). Then there are all of the extras, such as volunteering to be the pizza mom as well as the art appreciation mom at school. Plus, there’s the playdates, and after-school sports and activities. I also try to take my kids outside each day for fresh air and fun, and I need to help them with homework and reading each night. I love my mom and the way she raised me, but she wasn’t nearly as involved. (None of the moms were back then.) I love being a big part of my kids’ lives, but it’s also exhausting. Come dinner and bedtime, I’m beat. So while the babysitter comes in fresh and ready to work, I’m ready to throw in the towel (having been up since 5am). She has the energy to negotiate three more bites, or a spoonful of broccoli, but I feel like I’ve been negotiating for hours. When it comes to bedtime, I admit, I’m terrible about being strict. Truth be told, I love reading stories to my boys. I love the extra snuggle time. I love telling them about when they were a baby, or a story about when I was their age. So while I wish I had the energy to stick to a schedule and keep it consistent and structured, I also feel like I need to cut myself some slack. I don’t always make them finish their dinners (or eat their veggies and fruit), but I do make them three full meals a day. If they skimp on something at dinner, hopefully they make up for it at lunch. If I don’t always have the strong will to enforce bedtime, I hope they have happy memories of their mom telling them lots of bedtime stories about their childhood (and mine) and reading lots of books. Maybe babysitters can be consistent and more structured because they watch my kids at most 20 percent of the time I do. If I had my kids 20 percent of the time, maybe I could strive for perfection or good modeling all that time. But I’m on 24/7, so even though I slip up and bend the rules quite a bit, I like to think it evens out in the end. And that I’m still a good mom.

Judy Koutsky is an award-winning writer and editor whose work has appeared in more than 30 publications, including Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Redbook, Parents, Scholastic, and Prevention. She writes often about travel, parenting, health, and lifestyle. Follow her @JudyKoutsky or visit her website, judykoutsky.com.

January 2017 | nymetroparents.com

We've got everything for a…

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! NYMetroParents.com is parents' Party Central—one-stop shopping for the best in: H Party Places (for the trendiest, newest, or most classic locale) H Entertainers (clowns, balloon twisting, magicians, spa parties & so much more!) H Gift-Giving (from charitable ideas to the best presents for every age) H At-Home Party Themes (think pirates, princesses, superheroes, Harry Potter…) H Planning Help H Tips & Tricks from the Pros (…and parents who’ve been there!) Bergen•RocklandParent NORTH

HILLSDALE • MONTVALE

SEPTEMBER 2012

NORTHVALE • NORWOOD • OLD TAPPAN • PARK RIDGE • RAMSEY • RIDGEWOOD • SADDLE RIVER/UPPER SADDLE RIVER • WALDWICK • WESTWOOD • WYCKOFF

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

LongIslandParent Parent SPETEMBER 2012

Class Is In!

After-School Activities

✓ ❑ ✓ ❑

Resource Guide

✓ ❑ ✓ ❑

SLOW DOWN!

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

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

How to Manage Kids’ Schedules

What Makes a Good Mentor?

+ 174 Family

+ 130 Family

(see our calendar, p. 26)

(see our calendar, p. 32)

Events

Plus: Learning to Let Go

Vaccines at Every Age Plus: Journaling for Your Child

Where-To Guide: Berry Picking

•

Dinosaur Fun

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

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions LongIslandParent 51

Catholic Schools Houses, Jan. 29-Feb. Catholic Schools Week Open Houses,Week Jan. 29-Feb.Open 4 Catholic Schools Week is January 29-February44 Learn why a Catholic education is an advantage that will last a lifetime. At a Catholic Schools Week Open House near you. Nassau County St. Christopher School Baldwin (516) 223-4404 www.stchris-school.org St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Regional School Bellmore (516) 785-5709 www.steas.com

Our Lady of Lourdes School Malverne (516) 599-7328 www.ollmalverne.org

Our Lady of Victory School Floral Park (516) 352-4466 www.olvfp.org

Our Lady of Grace Montessori* Manhasset (516) 365-9832 www.olgmanhasset.com

St. Anne's School Garden City (516) 352-1205 www.stannesgcschool.org St. Joseph School Garden City (516) 747-2730 www.st-josephschool.com All Saints Regional Catholic School Glen Cove (516) 676-0762 www.asrcatholic.org

kindness and respect, the ethos of a Catholic school emerges from the fact that students know that God loves them and that they are precious in His eyes. That they are accepted for who they really are. Uniforms remove many of the surface-level distractions of social status and peer pressure, and children learn that their value is not based on how others see them but on Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always faithful love for them. To learn more about Catholic Schools Week Open Houses and to find a school near you, call 516-678-5800 x 258 or visit us online at www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org

Our Lady Of Peace School Lynbrook (516) 593-4884 www.olpschoollynbrook.org

St. Raymond's School East Rockaway (516) 593-9010 www.srsny.org

The De La Salle School* Freeport (516) 379-8660 www.delasalleschool.org

We create a better environment for learning. Rooted in

Long Beach Catholic Regional School Long Beach (516) 432-8900 www.lbcrs.org

St. Mary's Elementary School Manhasset (516) 627-0184 www.stmary11030.org St. Rose of Lima School Massapequa (516) 541-1546 www.stroseschool.net Notre Dame School New Hyde Park (516) 354-5618 www.ndsnet.org Holy Child Academy* Old Westbury (516) 626-9300 www.holychildacademy.org

Holy Family School Hicksville (516) 938-3846 www.hfsli.org

St. Dominic Elementary School Oyster Bay (516) 922-4233 www.stdomsob.org

Our Lady of Mercy School Hicksville (516) 433-7040 www.olmshicks.org

St. Peter of Alcantara School Pt Washington (516) 944-3772 www.stpeterspw.org

St. Martin of Tours School Amityville (631) 264-7166 www.smtschool.org

S S Cyril and Methodius School Deer Park (631) 667-6229 www.sscmweb.org

St. Patrick School Bay Shore (631) 665-0569 www.spsbayshore.org

St. Mary School East Islip (631) 581-3423 www.saintmaryschoolei.org

Our Lady of Providence Regional Central Islip (631) 234-6324 www.olprov.org

Trinity Regional School East Northport (631) 261-5130 www.trinityregional.org

St. Agnes Cathedral School Rockville Centre (516) 678-5550 www.stagnes-school.org Maria Regina School Seaford (516) 541-1229 www.mariareginaschool.org St. William the Abbot School Seaford (516) 785-6784 www.stwilliamtheabbot.net St. Edward The Confessor School Syosset (516) 921-7767 www.stedwardconfessor.org St. Martin De Porres Marianist School* Uniondale (516) 481-3303 www.stmartinmarianist.org St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional School Westbury (516) 333-0580 www.stbolh.org St. Thomas the Apostle W Hempstead (516) 481-9310 www.stthomasschool.net St. Aidan School Williston Park (516) 746-6585 www.staidanschool.org Holy Name of Mary School Valley Stream (516) 825-4009 www.hnomschool.org *Private Schools

Suffolk County

Our Lady Queen of Apostles School Ctr Moriches (631) 878-1033 www.olqany.org Holy Family Regional School Commack (631) 543-0202 www.holyfamilyregional.com Our Lady of Mercy Regional School Cutchogue (631) 734-5166 www.olmregional.org

St. Patrick School Huntington (631) 385-3311 www.stpathunt.org Holy Angels Regional School Patchogue (631) 475-0422 www.holyangelsregional.org Our Lady of Wisdom Regional School Port Jefferson (631) 473-1211 www.olowregional.org

St. Isidore Catholic Elementary School Riverhead (631) 727-1650 www.sisriverhead.com St. Joseph School Ronkonkoma (631) 588-4760 www.stjoeronkelem.org Sts. Philip and James School St. James (631) 584 - 7896 www.sspjschool.net St. Patrick School Smithtown (631) 724-0285 www.spssmith.org Our Lady of the Hamptons Regional School Southampton (631) 283-9140 www.olhamptons.org Our Lady of Lourdes School West Islip (631) 587-7200 www.ollschool.org