Westchester Parent August 2018

Westchester

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM AUGUST 2018

Get Set for

SCHOOL! • Weighing Your Educational Options • Create a Homework Hot Spot • ACT or SAT? • Easy Ways to Find Scholarships

How to Talk to a Baby HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

WestchesterParent

1

Visit our website

www.sunywcc.edu/arts Drawing Painting Photography Ceramics Jewelry Digital Arts Join our community!

We offer a wide variety of courses from adults to kids that enrich lives and forge friendships. At Center for the Arts, students can meet like-minded individuals as they learn artistic techniques and hone their skills. A diverse array of classes are offered every semester including drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, pottery, and printmaking.

Adults Teens Kids Call for a free brochure!

914-606-7500

Westchester Community College Center For The Arts Westchester County Center, 196 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606 914-606-7500

20 YEARS OF SERVICE

“It’s very important for everyone to have health insurance. I feel proud and satisfied because I can help others. I’m very grateful for the opportunity Fidelis Care has given me.”

Isabel Ondreicka Member Services Support Associate

HERE TODAY. HERE TOMORROW.

HERE TO STAY.

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

TTY: 711

WestchesterParent

3

contents table of

august 2018

12 29

A Blended Family

How reluctantly raising my son in two homes turned out to be a blessing in disguise

Family Activities Calendar

Find something to do with your kids every day this month, from fairs and farmers’ markets to movies and crafts

back-to-school 16 Choices, Choices, Choices

40

18 Create a Homework Hot Spot 20 After-School Classes & Programs

Cash for College

Ten ways to find scholarships, grants, and financial aid online

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Raising an Entrepreneur 12 A Blended Family 36 The Different Ways to Talk to a Baby 38 A Tale of Two Tests 42 Party Central 43 Professional Services 44 Open Houses 44 Meet the Doctor 45 Party Planner and Advertisers’ Index 46 Quotables

14 Pom Pom Hand Puppets

40 Cash for College

29 Family Activities Calendar 35 Family Fun in Manhattan

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 16 Weighing Your Educational Options 18 Create a Homework Hot Spot 36 How to Talk to a Baby 38 ACT or SAT? 40 Easy Ways to Find Scholarships facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

SOLVE YOUR CHILD’S READING PROBLEM ACHIEVE 1 TO 3 YEARS OF READING IMPROVEMENT THIS SUMMER!!!

“A Miracle In The Making!”

- CBS TV

CHILDREN AT OR BELOW GRADE LEVEL WILL BECOME THE BEST READERS IN THEIR CLASS

• One on One Tutoring for K - 12th grade • Below, At or Above Grade Level Students • LD - ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - Special Needs • Your child will read better, faster with greater fluency and comprehension advancing one year every 4-8 weeks • Grades, confidence and self esteem will soar as they learn to love reading and school • No contracts – Open 7 days a week • Your 3, 4 & 5 year old will learn 15-30 words in the 1st session • FREE Consultation – 35 Years Certified Experience

WATCH THIS VIDEO NOW:

www.nymetroparents.com/listing/Dicker-reading

Dicker Reading Method

75 Brook Street, Scarsdale | 914.472.0600 | www.DickerReading.com WestchesterParent

5

AUGUST 2018 • Vol.17 • No.12

raising kids editor’s note

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Deborah Skolnik MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling ASSISTANT EDITORS: Anja Webb, Melissa Wickes

Back to School Before You Know It!

D

on’t hate me for stating the obvious: In just a few short weeks, these lazy, hazy days aren’t going to be so lazy anymore. Though technically it will still be summer, at least for a while, school (or “the S-word” as my daughters like to call it) will be back in session. Maybe you’ll be relieved, glad to no longer have bored children underfoot, demanding to be entertained or bickering with each other. Or perhaps like me you’ll feel as sad as the kids do, mourning the loss of blank-slate days and the endless possibilities that accompany them. It’s also fine to fall somewhere between these two extremes, wistful for all that delicious free time but glad your family will once again settle into a more predictable routine.

If you’re the parent of a child in middle or high school, you know that kids in the upper grades have unique challenges. This month we’re tackling some of the major bigkid educational issues out there, offering guidance to help your year get off to a good start. Katelin Walling’s piece “Choices, Choices, Choices” on p. 16 examines the benefits of different types of schools, from public and parochial to charter and beyond, so you can determine what sort of environment will allow your child to flourish. Of course, your home environment should be geared toward your student’s needs too! “Create a Homework Hot Spot” by Lambeth Hochwald (p. 18) shares easy ways to design a study space that will help your student buckle down and excel.

And speaking of excelling, for parents of teens, the SAT and the ACT both loom large on the radar. Which test is best for your child to take? The expert insights in “A Tale of Two Tests” on p. 38 will assist you in coming up with the right answer. We’ll also help you tackle the exorbitant cost of higher education with “Cash for College” (p. 40).

But don’t worry: We haven’t forgotten those of you with little ones. You’ll definitely want to read Melissa Wickes’ article, “The Different Ways to Talk to a Baby,” on p. 36.

Child development pros share how to boost your little one’s speech development—and the way you may unintentionally be sabotaging it. And don’t miss popular kids’ musician Suzi Shelton’s essay (p. 12) about how raising a child under two roofs gave him a strong foundation.

Wishing you lots of fun as you get in your last licks of summer!

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan, Westchester); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERNS: Alana Coopersmith, Allison Ingrum, Dasha Kofman To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents

ADVERTISING SALES

Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson, EJ Morales-Gomez Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan

PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR|PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIRECTOR|DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth

MARKETING

Deborah Skolnik Editorial Director

ASSISTANT MARKETING MANGER: Kristine Pulaski

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

ADMINISTRATION

CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith

MOMMYBITES.COM

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Rebecca Dixon 917-572-9192

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

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

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

8

8

8

8

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

Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

Climb.

Zip.

Connect.

Book Your Adventure Now and Save 20% with a Combo BronxZooTreetop.com WestchesterParent

7

of America

raising kids new places, new programs

Who: Lice Clinics of America What’s New: The Scarsdale location.

The one-hour lice removal service opened in mid-May after seeing the need in the Westchester area. Many traditional products for killing lice no longer work, as they are evolving into ‘Super Lice,’ and the insects have become resistant.

The clinic’s staff is certified in using the AirAlle FDAapproved device, which uses heated air to kill head lice and eggs, avoiding toxins and pesticides usually found in removal methods.

Clinic screenings are $25 per person, which is waived if head lice is confirmed. Treatment costs range from $90$199 per person and a Do-It-Yourself Lice Removal kit for $30-$50.

Want More Info: 9 Freightway, Scarsdale; 914-996-4050; liceclinicswestchester.com

Courtesy Lice Clinics

One-Hour Lice Removal Service Opens in Scarsdale

Peak lice season is thro ugh the end of Septem ber due to children com home from summer camps. ing

8

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Berkshire Farm Cetne

Who: Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth What’s New: Foster parent training services MAPP/ Deciding Together, which started June 12, and LGBTQ community programs.

The foster parent training program was offered June 12-14 in White Plains to teach parents the ‘common core’ of foster parenting. Berkshire Farms also honed in on shaping its programs to cater to the LGBTQ community in honor of Pride Month.

“We want to show appreciation to all of the parents for being a part of our community, and especially LGBTQ members of our community during Pride Month,” says Alison Novohradsky, program coordinator for Putnam and Westchester Berkshire Farms.

Berkshire Farm’s program provides services and support to secure the safety and well-being of children throughout our community.

Want More Info: 13640 State Route 22, Canaan; 518-781-4567; berkshirefarm.org

r & Services for Youth

Nonprofit Child Welfare Agency in White Plains Introduces Foster Care Program

sessions to for Youth offers monthly training Berkshire Farm Center & Services needs of children. rent diffe the of all t abou nts educate foster pare

18 MONTHS - 8TH GRADE

INSPIRING AND PROMOTING INNATE CURIOSITY

WestchesterParent

9

Courtesy Mark Cuban, Shaan Patel, and Ian McCue

raising kids in the know

Raising an Entrepreneur ››

By Melissa Wickes

I

f your child demonstrates an entrepreneurial spirit, you should encourage him to pursue that. Here are five ways you can teach your child to be an entrepreneur with help from Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks and star of the hit TV show Shark Tank, Shaan Patel, M.D., M.B.A., founder of Prep Expert, an SAT and ACT prep company that was pitched on Shark Tank in 2016, and Ian McCue, a rising senior at UNLV and the founder of Spark Skill, a technology summer camp provider. All three co-authored Kid Start-Up: How You Can Be an Entrepreneur.

Be supportive of your child’s ideas. The first step to starting a business is to get feedback from as many people as possible before spending any money, according to Dr. Patel. And don’t worry that someone will ‘steal’ your kid’s idea if she asks for feedback. Chances are, even if someone wanted to ‘steal’ the idea, they won’t put in the time, effort, and passion that she would. “Ideas are cheap, execution is the hard part,” Cuban says.

Instill perseverance. When running a business, you are very rarely going to do everything right the first time, McCue says. Teaching your child it is okay to fail can make him all the more successful. “You have to be willing to try a bunch of things and accept that only a few will work out,” McCue says. In teaching perseverance, you will also help your child know it may take time to get traction in a business.

Teach self-control. This is important because, when starting and running your own business, you regulate your own hours, Dr.

From left: Shaan Patel, Mark Cuban, and Ian McCue, co-authors of Kid Start-Up: How You Can Be an Entrepreneur

Patel says. By teaching your child self-control, even when she is a toddler being told to only eat one cookie, you are increasing the odds that she’ll one day have a higher income, better relationships, higher SAT scores, and fewer issues involving drugs and alcohol.

Encourage him to pursue his hobbies. It may seem unlikely that a kid can really be a master in anything. However, kids become infatuated with things they like without even knowing they’re an expert. “My advice to all entrepreneurs is to start a business that you’re an expert in,” Dr. Patel says.

Teach her to be a problem-solver. In a world where so many ideas have been thought of and so many inventions have been created, one might ask, where do you even begin brainstorming creative ideas? Look at everyday problems, no matter how small, and find a way to solve them. These challenges are familiar to us, making it easier to think of ways to fix them.

Fall& Spring

2018/2019 CHILDREN’S DANCE Ages 2-7

YOUTH BALLET Ages 8-18

Use code: LOVETODANCE and save $50.00

COME GROW WITH US

LETS START LEARNING BALLET

www.joffreyballetschool.com | 434 Ave. of the Americas, 3rd Fl, NY NY 10011 10

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Label. It. All. Save 10% on School Labels!

Use code WESTCHESTER10 at checkout.

Shop For Back to School Labels Now. mabelslabels.com | 1-866-30-MABEL

Offer valid until October 31, 2018. Coupon may be used only once, has no cash value, cannot be combined with other offers or promotions and is not applicable towards taxes, express shipping or discounted products.

Our office if focused on preventative care and early intervention of problems with the growth and development of the orofacial complex. Our philosophy is to have a holistic approach towards the individualized oral care towards each and every child.

The friendly and courteous team at Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry works hard to make sure that every child has a pleasant experience.

They truly believe is ‘helping children smile through life’.

WestchesterParent 11

raising kids voices

A Blended Family ››

How reluctantly raising my son in two homes turned out to be a blessing in disguise By Suzi Shelton

W

hen my son was just 2 years old, his father and I decided to split up. We had tried for a while to make it work, but it was clear we would all be happier apart. For me, this meant our son would live with me full time in our Brooklyn apartment, and have visitation with his dad. For his dad, splitting up meant our son would split his time equally, and live in two homes.

This wasn’t something I was ready to accept. There was no way this was going to work out. It couldn’t be in the best interest of our young son. Could it?

A very wise family therapist told us, “Yes, actually, it could work out.” And yes, it could be a very happy and healthy way to raise our son. As long as we were both 100 percent onboard.

So, I thought long and hard about it, and decided I would get onboard. For our son.

At first, it was awful. I hated having to give up Sebastian (still a baby for God’s sake) for half of the week. And overnight! I would hand him over with his little Thomas the Tank Engine backpack with tears in my eyes and a pain in my heart. I would count the hours and then minutes until he came back to me, and I would hold him so tightly when he walked in the door. Except it wasn’t actually about me. It was about Sebastian and the fact that he deserved to have quality time with his Dad. We learned (through our family therapist) how to help Sebastian make this transition easier on himself, and on us. We learned to say things like, “I can’t wait to hear what you did at Daddy’s house,” instead of, “I’ll miss you so much!” And it became our new normal for our son to live in two homes. And have two beds and two sets of toys. And, eventually, two more parents. And Sebastian was fine with this. In fact, he was more than fine. He was happy.

Our blended family (from left): Sebastian (19), Julia (3), Emma (13), and Cole (10)

The thing I didn’t really anticipate with all of this was I would meet my now husband and have another child, and his Dad would marry and do the same, and those “extra” parents and children would be part of our family, too. Our modern family had expanded and grown and there was still quite a lot of love to go around. In fact, when Sebastian was in elementary school, he and his dad wrote a poem called “Mama’s House, Daddy’s House,” which we turned into a song that I put on my second album to share our message with the world…two homes but “one heart—filled with love.”

Now almost 18 years later, Sebastian’s dad and stepmom are two of my closest friends. We still share raising Sebastian, and we share raising our other children, too. My 13-year-old daughter has her own drawer of clothes at their house, and their two younger children have the same at my house. My husband and I fondly call them our “stepchildren” since there really isn’t another word for it, and you know what? It works.

Our 10-year-old stepson comes over regularly after school to “hang out” and get away from his 3-year-old sister. That same 3-year-old sister calls me “Mama!,” runs into my arms when I occasionally pick her up at preschool, and loves to come over and play with our dog, Penny. They both bring me so much joy.

We all decided to spend holidays together instead of alternating Sebastian between the two homes. It’s much easier this way, and actually more fun. I feel like I have four children instead of two. And when I need them, I have three other parents I can count on instead of just one. I feel lucky. I never would have imagined (way back when) that things would have turned out this way, and to be honest, I can’t imagine it any other way now.

Suzi Shelton, an award-winning singer/songwriter for the playground set, has been writing, recording, and performing music for families for more than 15 years. She is the proud mama of two and step-mama of two more. Shelton has just released her fourth solo album and is currently working on her fifth season of Sing with Suzi videos on YouTube for her preschool fans. See and hear it all at suzishelton.com.

12

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

A Dental Visit Can Be Fun! Penny Resnick-Graulich, D.M.D. Francisca Ceron, D.D.S. Emelie Preis, D.D.S. MAIN STREET PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 115 Main Street, Suite 302, Tuckahoe (914)633-4440 www.mainstreetpediatricdentistry.com New Laser Technology Your kids CAN have their cavities fixed without an injection, without pain and without a numb lip afterwards! (in most cases)

New State of the Art Facility • Special Custom Game Rooms • Home Theater with Large-Screen TV • Adult Coffee Bar • Environmentally Conscious Setting Now offering General Anesthesia for our patients who need it!

Voted 7 years in a row one of Westchester’s Top Pediatric Dentists

by Westchester Magazine WestchesterParent 13

things to do

diy corner

Pom Pom Hand Puppets While we love the summer weather and perfect beach days, sometimes it’s just too hot (or rainy) to be outside with the kids. But keeping them cooped up inside all day without planned activities can sometimes drive us crazy. So pull out the pipe cleaners and hot glue gun to make these hand puppets—a project featured in Debbie Chapman’s “Low-Mess Crafts for Kids”—and then have the kids write and perform a show for you!

Who needs a fancy puppet when you can use your hand?! Slide your middle finger into one of these pom pom hand puppets and use your fingers and thumb as the mouth. Hands can be surprisingly funny when you make them talk in a silly voice!

Do you want another low-mess craft tip? Look for bags of short pipe cleaners to add to your craft stash. There are no scraps to worry about when you don’t have to cut anything. Try curling a short pipe cleaner into a spiral for one set of eyes. Or use sparkly pom poms to make eyelashes on another one. A small change can inspire a completely new personality for your puppet.

Materials • 5 pipe cleaners, 6 inches long (or 3 full length pipe cleaners, cut in half) • 2 large pom poms • 2 small pom poms

1 2

• 2 medium googly eyes Tools • Low-temperature glue gun (make sure to ask a grownup to help when using)

3

4

5

6

7

8

Directions 1. Fold one pipe cleaner in half, then bend it into a “U” shape.

2. Spread apart the fluff in one of the large pom poms. Add a small glob of hot glue into the opening, then press one of the pipe cleaner ends into the glue, pushing the fluff of the pom pom back into place around the pipe cleaner. Repeat with the other end of the pipe cleaner with the second large pom pom.

3. Fold two pipe cleaners in half. Add a small dab of hot glue onto the small pom poms and press them onto the tip of each pipe cleaner half. These will be the antennae.

4. Attach the pipe cleaner antennae to the top of each of the large pom poms using a glue gun.

5. Bend the pipe cleaner antennae slightly so they curve.

6. Take the end of another pipe cleaner and fold the end by about ½ inch. Fold it by ½ inch in the other direction. Continue folding it back and forth, in opposite directions, until you get to the end. Repeat for the last pipe cleaner. These will be the puppet’s eyebrows.

7. Attach the eyebrows to the front of the large pom poms using hot glue. Then attach the googly eyes slightly over the top of the eyebrows, again using hot glue.

8. Your pom pom hand puppet is complete!

Reprinted from Low-Mess Crafts for Kids with permission from Page Street Publishing Co. Photography by Debbie Chapman.

14

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

ENRICHING AFTER SCHOOL MONTESSORI PROGRAM FOR KINDERGARTEN & FIRST GRADE September 2018 – June 2019 3:00- 6:30pm

A warm after school environment supervised by our Trained Montessori Staff, including outdoor play or indoor movement time; art exploration activities including collage, painting or re-cycled art projects; and open ended exploration including blocks, puzzles and rhythm instruments. Fresh snack provided daily.

Enrichment programs include • • • • • •

The Children’s School of Yoga – explore yoga in a playful and imaginative environment Rhodes Piano Method – an early and accelerated ramp to piano and music education Culinary Cooking with Chef Alex – focus on basic culinary skills and nutrition in a yummy way Science Exploration – fun, hands-on experiments to nurture curiosity and love for learning Montessori Spanish – classroom tested lessons that are visually stimulating and fun for students Adventures in Wisdom – life coaching for kids!!

PLUS Daily Arts & Crafts and Homework Help.

JUST A FEW SPOTS LEFT SIGN UP TODAY!

THE NURTURY OFFERS RELIABLE DAILY TRANSPORTATION FROM YOUR CHILD’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DIRECTLY TO ONE OF OUR NURTURY CAMPUSES. (New Rochelle, Pelham, Mamaroneck and Harrison)

Call: 914-632-6200 thenurtury-montessori.com

MS IN NUTRITION & DIETETICS

The only full-time, two-year program in the region that combines classroom learning with the dietetic internship.

Concentrations offered in Culinary Nutrition or Food Policy/Food Justice

Visit pace.edu/MSNutrition to learn more.

*On the Westchester, NY campus only

WestchesterParent 15

Choices, Choices, Choices

››

The New York metro area provides families with a variety of school options, allowing you to choose the best one for your child. By Katelin Walling

W

e all worry about whether we’re making the best choices in raising our kids, and one thing most of us fret over is whether our children are getting the best education possible that is suited to their needs. In a lot of areas in the country, traditional district public schools may be the only option for kids. But living in the New York metro area, we are #blessed with an abundance of choices in addition to great public schools, from charter and independent schools, to magnet, international, and Catholic schools.

While one school option doesn’t necessarily provide a better education than another, each type has pros and cons for every individual family. It’s up to you to determine which school setting best suits your child’s needs. Read on to learn more about charter, home, independent, international, magnet, and parochial schools.

Charter Schools

“The most important concept to get is that a charter school is a public school,” says Ian Rowe, CEO of Public Prep Network, a system of three nonprofit charter schools in New York City. But charter schools often have a specific focus, one that typically responds to a need articulated by public school families. Public Prep schools, for example, are all single sex (two schools for girls and one school for boys) and have a focus in STEM education.

As with public schools, charter schools are tuition-free, though students have to apply for admission. Public Prep currently admits students via a lottery system due to high demand.

Charter schools, though, tend to operate with fewer regulations than traditional public schools and can set their own curriculum. But there is typically an accountability system in which charters are evaluated each year to see if they are meeting the outcomes set by the state, Rowe adds. Plus, there is a renewal process every five years to determine whether the charter is able to continue. “So, there is a much greater accountability in return for the freedoms you have,” Rowe says.

16

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Home Schools

There are numerous motivations for a family to decide to home-school their children, from religious and health reasons to a child’s learning style, aptitude level, or schedule (think child actors). There are also numerous options for home-schooling your child, whether you decide to take the lead in teaching, you enroll him in an online home-school program, such as the George Washington University Online High School, or you join a home-school community, such as Classical Conversations.

Parents who decide to home-school rather than enroll their child in a physical school need to submit a letter of intent, an Individualized Home Instruction Plan, and quarterly reports by specific dates, according to the New York City Department of Education.

Independent Schools

Also known as private schools, independent schools are funded by tuition and charitable donations as opposed to taxpayer dollars. “It is independently funded for the most part and also independent from the state to a certain degree,” says Scott Nelson, headmaster of Rye Country Day School, a college preparatory day school in Rye. “For instance, we don’t follow the NYS testing program (regents testing program), so we have more independence as far as curriculum choices.”

To enroll in an independent school, students have to fill out an application, parents and the student have an interview, and the student has to take an entrance exam, either the Independent School Entrance Exam or the Secondary School Admissions Test, according to Nelson.

Though tuition is a factor in attending an independent school, many offer need-based financial aid. For instance, RCDS offers $5.5 million annually to 16 percent of students, Nelson says.

International Schools

A second private school option, international schools are typically multi-cultural and integrate those different cultures into everyday learn-

ing. “We have families who hail from all over the world…and we embrace their backgrounds,” says Emily Benson, director of admissions at International Academy of New York in Manhattan. “We celebrate different times of the year that are holidays for those different cultures, and if we don’t actually make a big celebration about it, we at least discuss it.”

Many international schools are bilingual. IANY, for instance, teaches Mandarin and Spanish, and students spend almost 40 percent of their time interacting in those languages. “When we have a family coming from say Egypt, we might be studying Spanish or Mandarin, but we will ask that child how do you say this in Arabic,” Benson says of welcoming students’ cultures. “We encourage and embrace these other languages and we find that through the way we teach, our children are not only embracing different cultures...but they are also excited to share their home countries’ language and tradition.”

As with other private schools, international schools have an application process, and some require testing while others do not.

Many international schools also offer need-based financial aid.

Magnet Schools

Another tuition-free public school option, magnet schools are federally funded by competitive grants from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Innovation and Improvement. Over the past few years, the NYC DOE has won funding for 31 magnet schools across 12 districts in NYC, says Todd Levitt, senior director of magnet programs of NYC DOE. Due to the grants, the NYC DOE is able to offer specialized thematic programs, innovative curriculum, and diversified approaches to teaching, and provide professional development, partnerships, residencies, and extra funding to support special programs, he adds.

These 31 schools have a STEAM/STEM component, and each school follows a theme (architecture, civic leadership, and global conservation to name a few). Partnerships are tailored to each

school’s individual pursuits and include Columbia University, American Ballet Theatre, Lego, CUNY, NYIT, Apple Education, and Buck Institute of Education Project Based Learning. The grants allow magnet schools to have state-of-the-art technology, purchase new art and science supplies, and provide specialty rooms like broadcast studios and STEAM labs.

Though public schools, the NYC magnet schools have an application process through the NYC DOE Office of Enrollment and the magnet schools, but there is no screening or testing involved in applying. For information about open houses and school tours happening in the fall, email JGallag@schools.nyc.gov or TLevitt@schools.nyc.gov.

Parochial Schools

Catholic schools are private schools that follow a traditional curriculum but with an added religious component. Students enrolled in a Diocese of Rockville Centre school, for instance, are taught in accordance with the New York state learning standards and take the same Regents Exam and SAT as public school students, but learning is infused with a religious curriculum directed by the Diocese, according to Gary Layton, director of marketing and enrollment for DRVC. “Because we are a school that is run by a religious institution, we take a more holistic view. It is not just about educating. It is about building character, instilling values. It is about the kindness, the respect they show each other. It is about doing service projects” Layton says.

Though the schools in the Diocese are Catholic schools, teach religion courses, and prepare students for their first Holy Communion and Confirmation, not all students practice Catholicism. Those that don’t practice are required to take and pass religion classes, but are not required to participate in religious events or sacraments.

DRVC requires applicants to fill out admissions paperwork, and there is a “modest tuition” that is typically supplemented by the Diocese and the Parish that runs the school, Layton says.

J O I N Westchester’s Theatre for Children and Teens

w w w. p l a y g r o u p . o r g

914-946-4433 WestchesterParent 17

Create a Homework Hot Spot

››

Kids need a dedicated space to get their homework done. But what if the space you’ve carved out for them isn’t so ideal? Read on for some quick and easy fixes. By Lambeth Hochwald

I

f it seems like your kids find any excuse not to sit down and do their homework, it could be their workstation is lacking in the right light, the right inspiration, or even the right chair.

“As parents, getting our kids to focus on homework can be a daily grind,” says Lisa Sugarman, a nationally syndicated opinion columnist and parenting expert. “But by creating a space that entices our kids to sit down and dig into their work, we’re setting them up for success without anyone kicking and screaming along the way. And that means less stress for us and for our kids.”

It’s very important to pick a quiet spot without any distractions like TV, devices of any sort, and toys. “Tell your kids that it’s their spot to do their work,” Sugarman says. “Giving your kids ownership of their homework area is a really big deal to a kid. Next, always make sure to help them get invested in the space by encouraging them to help shop for the items they’d like and then set it up and get it organized together.”

Now that you know why your kids need a dedicated homework station, read on as Annie Draddy, a professional organizer and co-founder of Henry & Higby, a professional organizing company in New York City, shares 10 ways to get your kids to actually sit down and get their work done—plus products that will help enhance their space. We promise that your kids will thank you later!

in a proper set-up with a table and chair instead of doing their homework on the couch. This way they establish good habits and can properly work on their handwriting and other skills.”

Desk Pick: Kids Navy Blue Campaign Desk, $399 (crateandbarrel.com)

Make the space appealing.

By hanging up a corkboard for your kids to pin papers, reminders, and a calendar, you’re keeping important information within sight. “This is a space that should be within reach of their desk so they can easily add/remove important items on a regular basis,” Draddy says. “It can also give them a chance to decorate and personalize their space—and maybe even sketch out a dream board, which will hopefully inspire them to keep using it!”

Corkboard Pick: Zig Zag Cork Board, $12.99 (containerstore.com)

Once you’ve carved out a room or space in your home that works for your child and is intended just for homework, make it aesthetically pleasing by adding decorative items such as a colorful accent rug, bookends, and a funky desk lamp that matches their personality. “It doesn’t matter if this spot is in a communal room of the home or a desk in their own room, provided it feels personal to them,” Draddy says. “Ultimately, the goal is to get them to work 18

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Select a good desk chair.

The goal here: to select a desk chair that’s as comfortable as it is supportive. “You don’t want a lousy chair to be the reason that your kids are doing their homework in front of the TV,” Draddy says.

Chair Picks: Rockin’ Roller Desk Chair, $149 (pbteen.com)

Make it easy to keep a shipshape desk.

Although it may seem obvious, keeping a trash or recycling can near your child’s desk is a win-win. “Not only will this encourage him to throw out old papers, but also—perhaps with a little coaxing—purge the garbage from his backpack on a regular basis,” Draddy says. Bonus points if you encourage your child to routinely empty that trash on her own as part of her chores.

Trashcan Pick: Pink or Gray Trash Can, $39 (potterybarnkids.com)

Post important notices.

Keep supplies close at hand.

Stowing supplies within reach of your child’s desk is one of the biggest keys to your kid’s productivity. “There needn’t be twelve trips around the house looking for the tools they need to complete each project,” Draddy says. It’s easy: Just keep pens, pencils, erasers, PostIts, highlighters, three-ring binder paper, graph paper, rulers, and a pencil sharpener within easy reach. “If desk space is an issue, consider making your own mobile supply station that can be easily wheeled in and out of the space when it’s homework time,” she says. “A version of this caddy can also be made for the road if your children won’t always be home when it comes time for homework.”

Caddy Pick: Acrylic Accessory Drawers, $12.99-$13.99 (containerstore.com)

Embrace your label maker.

It’s time to dust off your label maker and use it to help your kids stay organized. “Label everything on your supply containers/caddy,” Draddy says, adding that this includes recent tests, papers, and assignment sheets as well as bins containing supplies. “This will help teach your children how to maintain their space and hopefully put an end to the continuing cycle of them asking where to put their supplies when they are done with their homework,” Draddy adds.

Label Picks: Simply Remarkable Reusable Chalk Labels, $9.95 or Brother P-Touch PTD 210 Easy-to-Use Label Maker, $24.99 (both on amazon.com)

Corral those cords.

As your kids get older, homework will often require the use of technology, whether that’s a laptop, iPad, or other plug-ins, all of which means cord and charging chaos. “Keep your kids’ homework space tidy from the cord clutter by using some of those ingenious products and hacks to help cables stay neat and handy for

when it’s time to plug in and charge,” Draddy says.

Cord Storage Pick: Cable Twisters, $9.99 (containerstore.com)

Time it right.

If assignments need to be timed, give your kids the tools to manage their own time by keeping a clock or timer on their workspace. “Setting time limits for each subject can help them stay on track,” Draddy says.

“This is a life skill that will bode them well in life after school, too.”

Timer Pick: Time Timer Original 8 Inch, 60 Minute Visual Analog Timer, $24.99 (amazon.com)

Encourage color-coding.

Color-coded file folders can be vital to keeping organized. Encourage your child to stow all science papers in a green folder, English compositions in their blue folder, French worksheets in a red folder, and so on. “This helps kids keep their notes organized whether on their desk or in their book bag,” Draddy says.

Color-Coded File Pick: White, Pool Blue + Aqua Letter Size File Folders, $15 (poppin.com)

Behold the power of the in-box.

With school comes tons of assignments and papers that need to stay organized. “Consider setting up an ‘in’ and ‘out’ bin where your kids can put assignments that need to be done and others that are already completed,” Draddy says. “This makes it easier to remember that everything in the ‘out’ bin needs to be packed in their backpacks and returned to school the next day.” For papers your kids want to keep for future nostalgia, consider keeping these in bins. By doing this, your house will stay streamlined too.

Storage Picks: Artists Loft Studio Portfolio, $42.99 (michaels.com) or Archival Album & Scrapbook Storage Box, $17.99 (containerstore.com) Lambeth Hochwald is a NYC-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in NYC.

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

WestchesterParent 19

AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES & PROGRAMS

Alcott Montessori School

535 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry 914-693-4443 27 Crane Road, Scarsdale 914-472-4404 46 Fox Meadow Road, Scarsdale 914-725-7551 alcottschool.org Alcott School provides children ages 2-6 a supportive, multicultural learning environment where they develop independence, self-confidence, and pride in their abilities. All sites offer a developmentally appropriate curriculum with Montessori materials, music, creative movement, and nature enrichment programs. After-school enrichment classes are provided for ages 3-5.

Offerings include yoga, dance, mad science, super soccer stars, golf, karate, and Spanish. Kidz Club, a social skills group for ages 3-5 meets from 4-5pm twice a week at the Crane Road location. Call to arrange a tour.

Ann and Andy Child Care

2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-3027 annandandychildcare.com annandydca@aol.com Ann and Andy, family-owned and -operated for more than 30 years, offers a wide variety of fun activities for children 2 months to 14 years. We are state licensed, with an extensive campus, and offer flexible schedules, reasonable rates, nutritious lunches, a caring staff, individualized attention, and age-appropriate field trips. Join us for a wonderful school experience. Come see how much we care and become part of our family.

Belle School of Music

1088 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 283 Tarrytown Road, White Plains 1537 Central Park Ave., Yonkers 914-961-5511 belleschool.com The Belle School of Music, voted the No. 1 music school in Westchester in 2015 by parents, has a unique, effective, and fun way of teaching music to children, (ages 2 and older), and adults. Under the supervision of our highly qualified and dedicated staff, your child will not only learn to play but will develop an appreciation and love for music that will last a lifetime.

Bring out the musical talent in your child! Call 914-961-5511 to schedule a free introductory lesson and consultation.

Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventure

Bronx River Parkway at Boston Road 347-308-9021 bronxzootreetop.com bztreetop@wcs.org Adventure is waiting among the treetops.

From beginner to expert, you’ll have fun with friends and family. Climb, balance, swing, and zip through the trees on a variety of unique elements like ropes bridges and spider webs.

Soar 800 feet across the Bronx River and back on our dueling zip lines offering thrills

20

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

and unforgettable experiences. Get outdoors, connect with family and friends, and make some memories. Choose from a variety of activities designed for all abilities. Climb, zip, and connect at the best new experience in New York. Open daily. bronxzootreetop.com.

Central Park Dance

450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-723-2940 centralparkdance.com centralparkdance@gmail.com Central Park Dance offers more than 200 classes a week, in all levels, for children and adults. CPD has a preschool program, which is regarded as one of the finest in the area, introducing children as young as age 2 to dance and the popular Fairytale Ballet. CPD has earned a reputation for being the most thorough and rewarding dance experience for students for more than 35 years. Miss Talia’s Boutique is on premises and open late, seven days a week. Online registration is available. Voted Best of Westchester 2013.

The Children’s Jewish Education Group SUNY Purchase

914-864-1267 cjeg.org Looking for a Jewish education for your child without joining a synagogue? CJEG is a community-based school that emphasizes Jewish cultural studies, Jewish tradition, history, and holidays, for children in kindergarten-seventh grade. We provide a professional teaching staff supported by a parent co-operative board in an open, warm, and relaxed environment. Bar and bat mitzvah lessons are also available. Classes are held Sunday mornings at the SUNY Purchase campus. For more information, please visit our website, cjeg.org.

Clay Art Center

40 Beech St., Port Chester 914-937-2047 Kelly O’Sullivan, youth director clayartcenter.org/youth-families-classes mail@clayartcenter.org Have your kids unplug with mud in Clay Art Center’s weekly youth classes starting Sept. 16.

Work with clay to develop creative problem-solving skills and build confidence while making new friends and having fun. Hand-building classes are offered for ages 6-9, wheel-throwing classes for children ages 10-17. Taught by professional ceramic artists who specialize in kindling a passion for creative expression in children. 40 Beech St., Port Chester, 914-937-2047, clayartcenter.org/ youth-families-classes.

Curtain Call, Inc.

1349 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 203-329-8207 x16 curtaincallinc.com Curtain Call, Inc., Stamford’s longest-running, nonprofit theater, providing year-round, live performances and theatre arts classes. Ages 5 through adult can enjoy after-school, evening,

and weekend workshops in acting for the stage, TV and film, comedy, improv, musical theatre, Broadway tap, and Shakespeare. Full-day vacation programs are offered for ages 6-16.

Teaching artists provide a nurturing, creative environment for students of diverse experience and backgrounds. We can also design a workshop for your before- or after-school program, business, or civic group. Call 203-329-8207x16 or visit curtaincallinc.com. “Where Acting Out is encouraged!”

Dicker Reading Center of Westchester

75 Brook St., Scarsdale 914-472-0600 dickerreading.com Our revolutionary reading program will teach any child to read, even children diagnosed as learning disabled, dyslexic, or with ADD or ADHD. Whether your child is reading above, below, or at grade level, he or she will accomplish three–six years of reading achievement in just one year. Parents will see immediate improvement in reading achievement, comprehension, and vocabulary development. More than 10,000 children, from preschool to 12th grade, have accomplished these remarkable results. Your child’s grades, confidence, and self-esteem will soar as they learn to love reading and school.

Eye Level Westchester

Eye Level of Rye Brook 27 Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook 914-933-0566, Piers MacDonald Eye Level of Briarcliff 501 North State Road, Briarcliff 914-741-0407, Margaret Mak myeyelevel.com Many parents today are facing educational challenges and looking for answers to help their children succeed academically. Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic advancement, Eye Level is the answer. Eye Level offers math and English programs for ages 3-14. Our instructors tailor a curriculum by understanding the learning abilities of the student. With ongoing guidance, each student will set attainable goals and learn at a comfortable pace. With each success, the student grows more self-confident, self-motivated, and self-directed in the quest for knowledge.

French-American School of New York (FASNY)

Campuses in Scarsdale, Larchmont, and Mamaroneck 914-413-3665 Nursery to third grade: Larchmont Campus, 111 Larchmont Ave., Larchmont Fourth-eighth grade: Mamaroneck Campus, 145 New St., Mamaroneck fasny.org camps@fasny.org FASNY’s Extension Program offers bilingual recreation and language programs for children and adults, and French immersion camps. From sports to arts to cooking, stimulating after-school continued on page 22 ››

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

D IT E E E M C L LI P A LAB S I VA

A

Children learn from our experienced Montessori teachers who provide an individual, hands on learning environment. We offer a variety of toddler and pre-K programs!

Extended hours are available. www.alcottschool.org Scarsdale 27 Crane Road 914-472-4404

Dobbs Ferry 535 Broadway 914-693-4443

Scarsdale 46 Fox Meadow Road 914-725-7551

THE BEST OF ALL WORLDS Better problem solving.

Bigger thinking.

Outstanding college acceptances.

Experience the global education of the French-American School of New York Discover the world-class IB Diploma and new all-English 9-12 International Program at our new Mamaroneck campus.

Request a private tour at admissions@fasny.org

FRENCH-AMERICAN SCHOOL OF NEW YORK LYCEE FRANCO-AMERICAN DE NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AND BILINGUAL SCHOOL

WestchesterParent 21

‹‹ continued from page 20

activities where children and adults are exposed to different languages and cultures are a hallmark of our Extension Program. Learn more and register at fasny.org/afterschool.

Classes start Sept. 24, offered on our Larchmont and Mamaroneck campuses. We are an international and bilingual school of excellence offering non-French speakers two entry points into our multicultural community: Preschool (starting at age 3), and High School (international-track program).

German International School New York (GIS)

50 Partridge Road, White Plains 914-948-6513 gisny.org admissions@gisny.org German International School New York welcomes families of all nationalities with an interest in German language and German, Swiss, and Austrian cultures into its vibrant, bilingual, pre-K through 12th grade independent day school. Since 1980, the strength of GISNY’s bilingual college preparatory curriculum and the diversity of its community have nurtured and inspired inquisitive thinkers and developed thoughtful, open-minded, socially responsible, global citizens. GISNY sits on more than 20 acres in the heart of Westchester County. Graduates earn both a New York high school diploma and the German International Abitur.

Great Play of Scarsdale Interactive Gym for Kids

969B Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-713-3470 greatplay.com/scarsdale Great Play is a Family Favorites Winner three years in a row, and kidsoutandabout.com’s Top Place to Take Kids in Westchester for 2016. Great Play makes it insanely fun for kids, ages 6 months-fifth grade, to develop motor and sport skills, fitness, and coordination!

Great Play’s unique curriculum of directed play, and their patented Interactive Arena™, help children develop age-appropriate skills while having a blast. Customers rave about it! Fantastic birthday parties too! Call for a free trial!

GymCats Gymnastics and Birthday Party Center

Alyssa Fay, gymnastics and birthday party director 1 Odell Plaza at Equalize Fitness, Yonkers 914-965-7676 gymcats.net At GymCats Gymnastics, children learn the skills and confidence they need to become better athletes and individuals. Exciting gymnastics classes are offered for boys and girls, ages 20 months to teens, as well as recreational to advanced classes, private lessons, cheer classes,

22

toddler open gym for crawlers up to walkers, and summer camp.

GymCats is home to our own All Star Cheer Team, the GC Xtreme All Stars! We are also famous for our unique private birthday parties. Our enthusiastic interactive staff makes your child’s party memorable.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School

25 School Lane, Scarsdale 914-723-1169 hbms.org hb@hbms.org Westchester’s premiere community music school. Early childhood, kindergarten to 12th, adult programs, jazz, and summer arts program.

Comprehensive music education for students of all ages by a worldclass faculty in a warm, nurturing environment. Students receive not only weekly private lessons, but also musicianship classes, ensemble instruction, numerous performance and practice opportunities with accompaniment, and regular assessment of student progress. This all-encompassing approach catalyzes learning, enabling students to fulfill their potential. Early childhood classes combine fun with learning, nurturing development of the whole child. Ongoing enrollment. Tuition pro-rated at time of enrollment.

ISG Gymnastics

Annie Pipia and Joann Distler, directors 151 Crotona Ave., Harrison 914-835-0010 isggymnastics.com Gymnastics classes, summer camp, cheerleading, tumbling, birthday parties—ISG has got it all! From babies to teenagers, beginner-advanced, we have the program that’s right for you! You’ll flip over this professional facility with certified instructors for all levels. ISG is a fun-filled, unique way to celebrate a birthday complete with trampoline, balance beams, bars, vault, tumbling, and air castle. All ages, 1 through teens. Age-appropriate program and equipment. Fun for all!

Jodi’s Gym

25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 244 E. 84th St., Manhattan 212-772-7633 jodisgym.com Jodi’s Gym has been providing New York kids the highest level of fun and fitness for more than three decades! Their step-by-step, no-fail approach ensures that every child feels a sense of accomplishment.

They offer gymnastics (ages 3-12), Ninja Challenge (ages 4-8), Game On! (ages 3-5), parent and child gym, Music Together, summer and holiday break camps, free playtime and perks for members, private lessons, and the best birthday ever!

Need transportation after school?

They also bus from every Chappaqua elementary school!

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Joffrey Ballet School

434 Sixth Ave., 5th Floor, Manhattan 888-438-3808 joffreyballetschool.com The Joffrey Ballet School offers classes in Musical Theater, HipHop, Jazz and Contemporary Ballet, and more. We specialize in dancers ranging in age from 2-18. We also offer superb adult evening dance fitness classes. The Musical Theater classes for kids are instructed by actual Broadway stars.

Come and experience our more than 60 years of excellence in dance training. You will love the way we care for your child’s dance training.

Come and grow with us.

Musical Munchkins, Westchester’s original early childhood music program is celebrating more than 30 years of makin’ music and memories.

We continue delighting our youngest musicians and their families with the wonderful world of mommy-andme music. Our curriculum, filled with awesome activities, is geared to children ages 6 months to 4 years.

Instruments, creative movement, inventive props, puppets, books, and games help captivate and enrich children with a love of music. Our nurturing teachers capture everyone’s hearts, while stimulating those developing brains. Visit our website.

Schedule a free trial class.

The Little Gym

The Nurtury Montessori School

777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072 tlgscarsdaleny.com 2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets) Upper West Side, Manhattan 212-799-1225 tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues) Upper East Side, Manhattan 212-787-1124 tlguppereastsideny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444 tlgwaldwicknj.com The Little Gym is an exercise and motor development center for children, offering gymnastic classes, sports skills development, dance, cheerleading, and karate classes for children ages 4 months to 12 years, in a loving, non-competitive environment. Qualified instructors implement programs designed to build self-esteem and confidence.

An emphasis on music and fun encourages both physical and emotional growth. The Little Gym also offers summer camp, holiday camp, Parent Survival Night, and Awesome Birthday Bashes.

MSquash Accelerator

23 Waterfront Place, Port Chester 1-844-MSQUASH (677-8274) msquash.com info@msquash.com MSquash is the newest and coolest squash facility, with a brand-new way to play sports. Its first two InteractiveSQUASH courts in the U.S. have players play videogames on a front wall while working out. The power of play. Starter or advanced athlete, kids love sports through play. Play is what kids adore and need. Through play bodies grow and become healthy, happy, and energized. MSquash offers after-school programs, summer camps, and birthday parties for kids ages 5-19.

Start playing squash in clinics or have the best birthday party ever.

Musical Munchkins

167 Scarsdale Road, Tuckahoe 914-771-7000 musicalmunchkins.com

914-632-6200 thenurtury-montessori.com info@thenurtury-montessori.com The Nurtury offers an enriching after-school program for kindergarten and first grade students. With reliable daily transportation from your child’s elementary school (Pelham, New Rochelle, Mamaroneck, and Harrison). From 3-6:30pm, we provide a warm, after-school environment supervised by our very own Nurtury staff members. After-care activities will include outdoor play and indoor movement time. Children will take part in one special per day: Rhodes Piano Method, Montessori Spanish, Cooking Class with Chef Alex, Children’s School of Yoga, and our newest special called Adventures in Wisdom Life Coaching for Kids.

Pine Brook Fitness

130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-636-1019 pinebrookfitness.com Pine Brook Fitness, awarded as Westchester’s Best Multi-Sport Family Fitness Facility, provides a fitness experience for you and your family to have fun, improve your skills, and test your limits in a safe, friendly, and rewarding atmosphere. We are home to the New Rochelle Racquet Club, The Rock Club, and The Studios, offering tennis, rock climbing, specialized fitness classes, and personal training.

We offer a variety of programs for children and adults, hold annual summer vacation camps, and provide an exciting venue for birthday parties and bar or bat mitzvahs.

The Play Group Theatre

1 N. Broadway, Suite 111, White Plains 914-946-4433 playgroup.org info@playgroup.org The Play Group Theatre is a nonprofit, educational theatre organization dedicated to providing process-oriented theatre training and diverse performance opportunities to children and teenagers regardless of financial means. Programs including: Little Theater for continued on page 24 ››

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

OPENING A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES VISIT US

Request a private tour at admissions@gisny.org. For future open houses visit GISNY.ORG/ADMISSIONS.

Discover German International School New York, an independent, Pre-K through Grade 12 college preparatory program. Our English-German bilingual curriculum and international community of children cultivates students of exceptional character who are open to a world of opportunity. Children entering our Pre-K and Kindergarten classes do not need to speak or understand German.

We welcome families of all nationalities.

GISNY.ORG

50 Partridge Rd, White Plains, NY 10605 - (914) 948-6513 - admissions@gisny.org

Enroll NOW!

We register children all year long!

The Children’s Jewish Education Group offers Jewish cultural studies for grades K-7, with emphasis on tradition, history and holidays.

A professional teaching staff is supported by a parent co-op.

Bar/Bat Mitzvah lessons available. Interfaith families welcome.

Classes held Sunday mornings at Purchase College.

Call now to plan a Visit

914-200-1520 or visit our website www.cjeg.org

FALL PROGRAM

Family Owned & Operated Since 1973 Experienced Teachers

• Serving Children 2 months–14 years • Field Trips • Stimulating Environment • Flexible Schedules • Beautiful Campus Setting

www.annandandychildcare.com 914-592-3027 • 2170 Saw Mill River Rd, Elmsford WestchesterParent 23

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

‹‹ continued from page 22

ages 4-6, Mainstage for high school students, a Design and Tech program, and our THEATERLAB with individually designed programs for ages 7-17 featuring student-driven, hands-on explorations of what it means to be a theater maker.

Summer and year-round programs available. 914-946-443, playgroup. org, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @playgrouptheatre #PGT.

The Pre-School Dicker Reading Center of Westchester

Introducing our new Little School Pre-K Academy, a transitional 4’s program for families wanting the “gift of time”

75 Brook St., Scarsdale 914-472-0600 dickerreading.com Your child (age 3-5) will learn 15-30 words in their first session. Then they will learn to read their first book fluently. Every two months, your preschooler or kindergartner will achieve one year of reading enrichment. Their self-esteem will soar as they develop a love for reading and school. It’s easy, fun, and life’s most exciting game.

Project Explore

70 Columbus Ave., Valhalla 914-328-1578 eastersealsny.org We serve children with and without disabilities in inclusive, integrated, small classrooms. We offer high-quality, full- and part-time programs, school year and year-round, for children ages 18 months to 5 years, from 8:30am-2:30pm. Beforeand after-school care, vacation clubs during school breaks, and summer camp are available. We follow the Creative Curriculum™ that is aligned with the NYS Common Core Learning Standards. We have special classes in art, music, and science, including interactive SMART Board activities. Our master teachers are New York State-certified in early childhood and special education.

NAEYC accredited.

Purchase College Learn-to-Swim Program

J. Brian Hansbury, director 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 914-251-5938 purchasecollegeathletics.com/ sports/2011/6/14/GEN_0614112216.aspx john.hansbury@purchase.edu Held in our sparkling, six-lane pool, the Purchase College aquatics program runs year-round and features children’s group lessons, parent and child classes (6 months and older), and specialty programs including adult lessons, and private and semi-private lessons. New this year: Pre-Competitive Swimming Group Workouts. All lessons are taught by certified American Red Cross instructors. Fall, winter, and spring classes will run Saturday and Sunday. Our swim team clinic runs for 12 weeks. Summer intensive programs continue through Aug. 17. Register now for summer and fall!

24

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Rye YMCA

21 Locust Ave., Rye 914-967-6363 ryeymca.org Rye Y’s after-school programs allow children to develop skills and build confidence in a nurturing environment. Enrichment classes include dance, chess, art, STEM Mechanics, and 3D Printing and Programming. The Rye Y’s swim school offers classes for all levels and the opportunity to join a competitive swim team. The gymnastics program offers progressive classes for all levels and a gymnastics team. The sports program includes: lacrosse, karate, soccer, multi-sports, basketball, basketball league, outdoor football, baseball, and soccer. Learn more and register for classes at ryeymca.org.

Sportime USA

380 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-2111 x2 sportimeusa.com Sportime USA is the ideal place to visit after a long day at school!

With a restaurant on the premises, we have activities for all ages including a Superfly Thrill Ride, a four-dimensional motion theater, laser tag, rock-climbing wall, a Ballocity Arena, batting cages, bumper cars, a Himalaya coaster, kiddie rides, more than 150 video and prize ticket games, billiards, and soft-adventure play area. Birthday parties are our specialty, and we also welcome all groups.

Starlight Starbright Music

78 Garth Road, Scarsdale 914-924-0995 slsbmusic.com jackie@slsbmusic.com Do you know that all children are musical? Find out what you can do to nurture the musical growth of your child in our parent-child Music Together classes, for children from birth through kindergarten accompanied by an adult caregiver! We also offer Uke U, a mommy-and-me ukulele class for children ages 3-6. For more information and to register, visit slsbmusic.com. We hope to see you soon!

Studio B Dance Center

277 White Plains Road (entrance on Prospect Avenue), Eastchester 914-793-2799 studiobdance.com Since 1996, thousands of students have taken dance lessons with Studio B’s highly talented and nurturing teachers. Their well-established pre-ballet programs are perfect for boys and girls as young as age 2. Students develop important social skills such as listening carefully, following directions, and interacting with others, while dancing to age-appropriate music. Studio B Dance Center continues to respond to families’ needs with convenient scheduling options and a wide range of styles, including ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, acro and tumbling, continued on page 26 ››

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

FREE

Easter Seals Project Explore

First Lessonn & Consultatio

Belle School of Music

“Where Learning Is Fun!”

70 Columbus Avenue, Valhalla Programs offered:

Toddler Program – ages 18 – 36 months Integrated Pre-school program – ages 3 - 5 Kindergarten – for children turning 5

by December 2018 After School Program – ages 6 - 12 Camp Explore – ages 6 -12

SPECIALIzINg IN PIANO, KEYBOARDS AND VOICE Ages 2 - 4 with parent participation.

Plant the seed of music in your child!

MUSIC LAND Ages 4 - 5 with parent participation.

A delightful experience for Mozarts of the future.

MUSIC FOR LITTLE PEOPLE

Ages 5 - 7 with parent participation.

Unique Russian-Japanese method.

Experience the Magic of Music.

NYS Certified Teachers, Creative Curriculum, State of the Art Playground and so much more!

We offer a structured learning environment for children to grow in the areas of cognitive, motor, and social development. For more information or to schedule a tour please contact our Director Lisa Smacchia 914 328 1578 or projectexplore@easterseals.org

ADVENTURES IN KEYBOARD Ages 8 - 12. Tradition on a new note.

Piano Instruction for the child of the new millennium.

Bring out the musical talent in your child!

914-961-5511 www.belleschool.com Scarsdale:

White Plains:

1088 Central Park Ave

Yonkers:

283 Tarrytown Road

1537 Central Park Ave

CLASS OFFERINGS

Ages 3.5 – 5.5 yrs

Great Play Jr. & Multisport Jr.

Ages 4.5 – 10 yrs

Single Sport, Multi-Sport & Play 50

Children's Swimming Progam Upcoming Sessions FALL INFO

Fall Sess. 1 Sep.8 - Oct.14 Fall Sess. 2 Oct. 20 - Dec. 2 Winter Sess. Jan. 26 - Mar. 3 Spring Sess. Mar. 9 - Apr. 28

Don’t forget about the little ones!

Lessons will held on Saturdays and Sundays for all upcoming sessions. Levels 1-2-3-4 and Stroke Technique available Saturday Lessons 9:00/10:00/11:00 am Sunday Lessons 10:00/11:00 am

All of our instructors are American Red Cross-trained Water Safety Instructors For more information contact: john.hansbury@purchase.edu | 914-251-5938 www.purchasecollegeathletics.com

We have classes for children 6 months and up!

PRE-SCHOOL & SCHOOL-AGE PROGRAMS (AGES 3.5 – 10 YEARS)

Preschoolers: Through games and instruction, preschoolers continue to develop fundamental motor skills - as well as introductory sport skills, coordination and agility - all while having a lot of fun! To the kids, it's all fun and games. But

GREAT PLAY 969B Central Park Ave. Scarsdale, NY 10583

behind the fun is a carefully crafted curriculum of progressive motor skill

914-713-3470

acquisition that helps children reach their full physical potential.

School-age:

www.greatplay.com

At Great Play, we offer a full range of fun programs that are ideal for helping any child get off to a great start athletically, whether they aspire to play competitive sports or not. With our small intimate setting, our patented interactive technology, our unique curriculum that turns practice into play, and our highly trained coaches, we provide the perfect setting for kids to develop the skills that will start the ball rolling to lifelong success.

WestchesterParent 25

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE ‹‹ continued from page 24

modern, contemporary, and pointe.

Call or visit their informative website.

Sylvan Learning Centers Westchester

Sylvan Learning Center of Bronxville 850 Bronx River Road, Bronxville 914-237-4396 sylvanlearning.com/bronxville bronxville.ny@sylvanlearning.com Sylvan Learning Center of White Plains 180 S. Broadway, White Plains 914-948-4116 sylvanlearning.com/whiteplains sylvan4202@msn.com Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of personal learning for kindergarten to 12th students, offers tutoring in reading, writing, math, study skills and test prep, and STEM classes in robotics and coding. Sylvan’s proven tutoring approach combines certified teachers delivering personalized instruction using curriculum aligned with common core standards and the latest iPad® technology. Sylvan also offers Sylvan Prep SAT® and ACT® courses. Sylvan Learning Centers are conveniently located in Bronxville and White Plains.

Westchester Children’s Museum

WEEKLY CLASSES FOR KIDS & TEENS SATURDAY DROPIN CLASS SUMMER CAMP BIRTHDAY PARTIES

OPEN HOUSE

September 8th, 1–4PM

40 Beech Street, Port Chester, NY www.clayartcenter.org | 914.937.2047

100 Playland Parkway, Rye 914-421-5050 discoverwcm.org info@discoverwcm.org The Westchester Children’s Museum is a vibrant, interactive place for play and discovery. Our indoor, airconditioned exhibit space overlooks the beach and Long Island Sound with ample parking. Exhibits and activities in our 6,500-square-feet of galleries offer experiences in physics, science, art, craft, and design, with places to climb, build, and explore for toddlers through age 12. We also offer daily programs for preschoolers through middle schoolers. Check our calendar for updates! discoverwcm. org/calendar-2/.

Westchester Community College Center for the Arts Located at the Westchester County Center

198 Central Ave., White Plains 914-606-7500 sunywcc.edu/arts arts@sunywcc.edu The Center for the Arts is an extension site of Westchester Community College. The Center has credit classes for adults seeking an associate’s degree or certificate in the liberal arts. In addition, The Center offers continuing education classes for adults and youth seeking enrichment in the arts. Classes in painting, drawing, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and digital arts are offered regularly in our large, spacious studios. Professional teaching artists provide instruction for all levels. Join our community! You will meet like-minded individuals as you learn artistic techniques and hone your skills.

Young at Art Studio Inc.

1088 Central Ave., Scarsdale 914-723-9229 info@youngatartworkshop.com Nurturing creativity without boundaries for more than 35 years.

We offer art classes for children ages 2-18. We have mommy and me classes for preschool children and toddlers. After-school and Saturday classes include creative art, painting, sketching, drawing, still life, sculpture, mixed media, Anime and Manga, cartooning, graffiti, pop art, portraiture, fashion design, 3-dimensional art, and portfolio development. We offer summer camps, private lessons, holiday workshops, birthday parties, and customized classes. At Young at Art, we take your child’s dream and bring it to life.

ACTIVITIES EVENTS LET YOUR CHILD ACTMORE OUT!!!

in cooperation with The City of Stamford

At Sterling Farms 1349 Newfield Avenue Stamford, CT 06905

Theatre arts classes for young and old this Fall, Winter and Spring, PLUS… full-day vacation programs for ages six thru sixteen!

Join

203-329-8207 x16 www.curtaincallinc.com

NYMetroParents

26

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Get advance notice on activities,

Join

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

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

5

yrs. of Fun, Frien ds, & Fitness !

Grea t Pe rk s Fo r M em be rs

Fo r K id s 9 mos to 12 yrs

Where every student is special for over 35 years!

Nothing Else Even Comes Close!

Gymnastics • Music • Playtime • Summer Camps School Break Camps • Ninja Challenge Jodi’s To Go • Best Birthdays Ever

200+ CLASSES A WEEK

www.jodisgym.com 25 Hubbels Dr. Mt. Kisco • 914.244.8811 244 E. 84th St. NYC • 212.772.7633

WE’RE HERE FOR YOUR FAMILY

The Rye Y’s family, youth and adult programs will help you develop new skills, improve health and well-being and connect to the community!

Fall program registration starts Aug.1 for Members and Aug. 8 for Non-Members Classes start Sept. 8 View the program guide at ryeymca.org RYE YMCA 21 Locust Ave., Rye 914-967-6363

ct nt a t C o vi s i o t us la s s! ac

Discover the joy of making music together with your family!

Chappaqua · Scarsdale · Tarrytown slsbmusic.com · (914) 924-0995 WestchesterParent 27

AFTER-SCHOOL MARKETPLACE

Create a memory

Join us for a Free Trial Class

Bui l

forming Per i

Cel

le who fam

to cherish...

Your child’s first love... and second home For more information visit www.studiobdance.com

Studio B Dance Center 277 White Plains Road Eastchester, NY 10709

Ask About Special Needs!

rating the b e

ily

g Friend din

ps shi

First R

tC Firs lass

tal eci

y nit

he commu nt

(914)793-2799

Independent, Co-Ed, Day School for Grades 6-12

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FALL A Non Cookie-Cutter School, for Non Cookie-Cutter Kids

Experienced, Nurturing Teachers Fun-Filled Classes

Music, Movement & Friends Age-Specific Curriculum

Celebrating 30+ years of making music and memories

Online Enrollment!

Pleasantville | Scarsdale | White Plains Bronxville | Dobbs Ferry | New Rochelle | North Castle

914-771-7000 • www.musicalmunchkins.com

Want more parenting tips, tools & resources...

NYMetroParents.com Helping parents make better decisions

Be Social • Flexible Support Center to assist in executive functioning skills with renowned licensed learning specialist, MARCELLA MORAN, and trained counselors on staff for one-on-one support • Music Conservatory with music production and recording courses and capabilities • State-of-the-Art Design Studio for creative, hands-on art classes • Science Research Program that allows students to explore areas of interest in detail, with out-of-the-box learning methods and techniques • Advanced Placement Courses & Expanded Elective Courses • Shuttle Service from Metro-North Stations and Many Transportation Options • 13 Acre Campus in Westchester County, NY • 4-to-1 Student-Faculty Ratio • Excellent College Placement with support from tenured College Counseling & Placement Specialists

ROLLING ADMISSIONS

Schedule a meeting with our Head-of-School TODAY!

370 Underhill Avenue Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 T: 914.962.2780 info@soundviewprep.org

28

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Edible Academy Fresh From the Garden Tastings (No. 8 on our list).

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

t

nyme

com/c

ents. ropar

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: SAMANTHA BERANBOM rpeditor@davlermedia.com

AUGUST CALENDAR 30

Editor’s Hot Tickets

31

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

32

Crafty Kids, Mini Musicians

33

Fun Fairs & Festivals, Show Time!

34

Animal Lovers, The Great Outdoors

6

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

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

1

Family Fun Day and Sand Castle Contest

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 4, 11am-4pm WHERE: Glen Island Park, Weyman Avenue, New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: Put a team together and create your own masterpiece in the sand. There will be music and entertainment.

WHY WE LOVE IT: There’s nothing like a little friendly competition!

WANT TO GO? $10. 914-813-6720. parks.westchestergov.com.

Hudson Valley Exposition

2

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 4, 1-10pm WHERE: Riverfront Green Park, Hudson Avenue, Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: This year’s expo will include an artisan marketplace, local groups and organizations, wellness providers, energy and technology vendors, an interactive kids zone, and area restaurants offering food and beer.

WHY WE LOVE IT: After a whole afternoon of fun, the evening will kick off with four national acts and then a beautiful fireworks display.

WANT TO GO? $10 donation. 914-737-3600. hvexposition.com.

3

The Muddy Puddles 6th Annual ‘Mess Fest’ Featuring Peppa Pig

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 4, 11am-4pm WHERE: Kiwi Country Day Camp, 825 Union Valley Road, Mahopac AGES: All WHAT: Hosted by the Ty Louis Campbell Foundation and Kiwi Country Day Camp, the “Mess Fest” promises splatter paint, pie throwing, a giant mud pit, a “SLOPSTACLE” course, food fights, water balloons, slime time, music, games, prizes, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: To help spread the word about the Muddy Puddles Project and its mission to help children with cancer, Peppa Pig will make an appearance, along with Disney princesses and the Star Wars 501st Legion.

WANT TO GO? $35. muddypuddlesproject.org.

30

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

4

Benny Havens Band: Dancing Under the Stars FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 4, 7:30pm WHERE: Trophy Point Amphiteater at West Point, 117 Washington Road, West Point AGES: All WHAT: Trophy Point becomes the Hudson Valley’s most scenic dance floor as the band invites you to the stage to dance to the best of swing, disco, Latin, country, funk, hip-hop, Motown, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: An active evening for the whole family.

WANT TO GO? 845-938-2445. westpointband.army.mil.

Random Farms Kids’ Theater presents ‘Mary Poppins JR.’

5

WHEN: July 27-Aug. 4, Fridays, 11am and 7pm; Saturdays, 1pm and 7pm WHERE: Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St., Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will be in awe of the youth performers.

WANT TO GO? $18-$23. 914-631-3390. tarrytownmusichall.org.

6

Family Art Project: Be a Bee

WHEN: Aug. 11-12, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, 649 W. 249th St., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Outfit yourself with wings, antennae, a pollen cup, and a kazoo to hum with. Buzz around in a hive of six-sided cells and forage in the flowers.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Littles will love participating in a bee parade and doing a bee dance in a cardboard hive.

WANT TO GO? $8; $4 students and seniors; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6; admission is free until 12pm on Saturday.

718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Military Re-Enactment Day

7

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 26, 11am-4pm WHERE: Boscobel House, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison AGES: All WHAT: History comes alive as military re-enactors set up encampments from the American Revolution, War of 1812, Civil War, and World Wars. They demonstrate camp life with inspections, formations, musket firings, artillery demonstrations, and drills.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A chance to see General George Washington inspect his troops, hear President Abraham Lincoln address his army, and more.

WANT TO GO? $17; $8 children; free for children younger than 5.

845-265-3638. boscobel.org.

8

Exciting New Birthday & Event Packages

Edible Academy Fresh From the Garden Tastings

WHEN: Through Oct. 18, Wednesdays, 2-2:30pm and 4-4:30pm WHERE: The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Cooking demonstrations, presented by Whole Foods Market, encourage families to get hands-on with healthy cooking using seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids and adults will learn how garden-to-table cooking is not only nutritious, but fun too!

WANT TO GO? $23; $10 children ages 2-12. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

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

Westchester Band Concerts FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 9, Thursdays, 8pm WHERE: Chase Park Scarsdale Village, 6 Persimmon Lane, White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy outdoor concerts. Rain location: Scarsdale High School.

WANT TO GO? 914-391-2401. scarsdale.com.

Spend a Night at the Library FREE

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 10, 7-10:30pm WHERE: Keeler Library, 276 Titicus Road, North Salem AGES: 5-8, adult WHAT: Watch Paddington 2,CALL play games, and enjoy snacks.

TODAY WANT TO GO? 914-669-5161. ruthkeelermemoriallibrary.org.

Grand Opening of The Velocipede Museum FREE

FREE party upgrade!

Add an EXTRA activity for FREE. Call for details.

Ad must be presented at time of booking. Exp. 08/30/18

50,000 sq. ft. of PURE FUN! Laser Tag • Super Fly • 150 Arcade games Rock Wall • Kiddie Zone Bumper Cars • Batting Cages and MORE! Can You Handle The Thrilling Excitement?

Thrilling SUPER FLY ride

ASK ABOUT • Private parties

• B-Mitzvah’s • Sweet Sixteen’s

914-592-2111 www.sportimeusa.com 380 saw mill river rd, Elmsford

Like Us & Receive Special Promotions

OPEN ALL WEEK!

READY. SET.

GOddard!

We help children explore and discover their interests through play in a safe environment. Highly trained teachers gently guide and encourage children every step of the way as they grow, develop and achieve important milestones.

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 10, 3-5pm WHERE: The Velocipede Museum, 109 Liberty St., Newburgh AGES: All WHAT: Check out an impressive collection of velocipedes, boneshakers, bicycles, and tricycles dating from 1860s-1960s.

WANT TO GO? 845-569-9065. motorcyclepediamuseum.org.

The Disney Songbook Animals Share-formance FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 30, 3:30pm WHERE: White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Place, 3rd Floor, White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Students will learn beloved songs from the Disney cannon, and then perform for an audience of family and friends.

WANT TO GO? 914-328-1600. wppac.com ››

CALL TODAY! HASTINGS ON HUDSON • 914-478-1390 1 Jackson Avenue

GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2017.

License #546763

WestchesterParent 31

Riverama Rubbings

CRAFTY KIDS Art Pals

WHEN: Through Aug. 2, Tuesday-Thursday, 9:30-10:15am WHERE: Creative Corner, 7 Addison St., Larchmont AGES: Newborn to 5, adult WHAT: Participants will create an art project based on a book. This class is great for developing your child’s fine motor and socialization skills.

WANT TO GO? $20 and up. 914-833-2880. creativecornerlarchmont.com.

WHEN: Aug. 4-26, Saturday-Sunday, 1-4pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Go on an adventure in the Hudson Riverama environmental gallery and recreate the texture of leaves, tree bark, flowers, and more through rubbings with crayon on colorful paper.

WANT TO GO? $7; $5 seniors and students; $4 ages 3-18; free for children younger than 3. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.

Trash to Treasure FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 28, 4-5pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids can make a fun craft using recycled materials.

WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Young Discoverers: Let’s Explore the Shore

WHEN: Through Aug. 29, Wednesdays, 11-11:30am WHERE: Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye AGES: 2-5 WHAT: Dig for shells in a sand table and make your own seashell craft.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 914421-5050. discoverwcm.org.

MINI

Wednesday Workshops

WHEN: Through Aug. 8, Wednesdays, 11-11:30am WHERE: Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St., Katonah AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Children will explore new ideas, materials, and projects each week with museum educators.

WANT TO GO? $10-$15. 914-232-9555. katonahmuseum.org.

Fairy House Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 11, 1-2pm WHERE: Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Join Fairy Queen Joan as you make and build fairy houses.

WANT TO GO? $15. 914-864-7286. muscootfarm.org.

Sun Catcher Craft

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 17, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Choose your shape and your paint colors, then paint your own sun catcher to hang in your favorite window.

WANT TO GO? $20. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com.

Make a Splash!

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 19, 1:30-3pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Play with movement and gesture to create an abstract expressionist drip painting in the style of Jackson Pollock.

WANT TO GO? $7; $5 seniors and students; $4 ages 3-18; free for children younger than 3. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.

DIY Jewelry Beads

WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 22, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Using polymer clay, create your own jewelry beads and pendants.

Crafters can take home their creations and the components to string the beads or jewelry pieces together after they dry.

WANT TO GO? $20. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com.

32

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

MUSICIANS Graham Clarke’s Musical Fridays FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 17, Fridays, 10-10:30am WHERE: Rye Free Reading Room, 1061 Boston Post Road, Rye AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Rock out with popular children’s musician Graham Clarke.

WANT TO GO? 914-967-0480. ryelibrary.org.

Music Rocks! FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 18, 3pm WHERE: Warner Library, 121 N. Broadway, Tarrytown AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join City Winds for a workshop. Call Children’s Room to sign up.

WANT TO GO? 914-631-7734. warnerlibrary.org.

Family Fiesta with Flor FREE

WHEN: Aug. 11-18, Saturdays, 12-12:30pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: A bilingual (English-Spanish) music program for the whole family.

WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Jazz at Pierson Park FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 25, Saturdays, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Pierson Park, West Main Street, Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family and a picnic basket.

WANT TO GO? 877-840-0457. jazzforumarts.org.

Summer Sounds Concert Series FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 31, Wednesdays and Fridays, 7:30pm WHERE: Hudson Park, 1 Hudson Park Road, New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: This year’s concerts will feature an eclectic menu of musicians.

WANT TO GO? 914-654-2087. newrochellearts.org.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS SHOW TIME! 7th Annual Multicultural Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 4, 9am-4pm WHERE: The Italian American Club of Northern Westchester, 104 Main St., Mount Kisco AGES: All WHAT: This celebration includes a car show, music, food, and vendors.

WANT TO GO? 914-218-3968. facebook.com/events/173628930002643.

GPL FanCon Expo FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 4, 11am-4pm WHERE: Greenburgh Public Library, 300 Tarrytown Road, Elmsford AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A convention celebrating all things anime, comics, sci-fi, and gaming. Be sure to dress up as your favorite character! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 914-721-8200. greenburghlibrary.org.

New Rochelle Lighted Boat Parade FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 4, 8:30pm WHERE: Hudson Park to Neptune Park, Waterfront, New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: Lighted boats will parade through New Rochelle Harbor from Hudson Park to Neptune Park. Boats from all marinas are welcome to join.

WANT TO GO? 914-235-6930. newrochelleny.com.

Heritage of India Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 5, 12:30-6:30pm WHERE: Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy cultural music, entertainment, food, and craft vendors.

WANT TO GO? 914-231-4033. parks.westchestergov.com.

‘Winnie the Pooh KIDS’

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 3, 3:30pm WHERE: White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Place, 3rd Floor, White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Join Pooh Bear and all of his animal friends from the classic children’s books as they band together to rescue their friend, Christopher Robin, in this 30-minute musical adventure performed by 6- to 12-year-olds.

WANT TO GO? $11; $6 children 16 and younger. 914-328-1600. wppac.com.

Outdoor Concerts FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 10, See website for dates, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Cross County Shopping Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy different bands perform throughout the summer.

WANT TO GO? 914-968-9571. crosscountycenter.com.

‘The Wizard of Oz’ Workshop Performance

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 10, 4pm WHERE: The Schoolhouse Theater, 3 Owen Road, North Salem AGES: All WHAT: Students in a five-day workshop program will put on a show from start to finish in one week with full costume, scenery, lighting, and sound.

WANT TO GO? $10. 845-444-2787. spotlightartsinc.com.

Westchester Sandbox Theatre Presents Green Day’s ‘American Idiot’

2018 Daniel Nimham Intertribal Pow Wow

WHEN: Aug. 11-12, Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 1pm and 6pm WHERE: Bendheim Performing Arts Center at JCC Mid-Westchester, 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This Tony Award-winning musical with Grammy Award-winning music explodes onto the stage as a high-octane exploration of what it means to be young and different in suburban America.

WANT TO GO? $25. 914-630-0804. wstshows.com.

Tour Around the World

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 17, 4pm WHERE: The Schoolhouse Theater, 3 Owen Road, North Salem AGES: All WHAT: Catch the student version of this Tony Award-winning musical.

WANT TO GO? $10. 845-444-2787. spotlightartsinc.com.

Westchester Jewish Music & Arts Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 19, 12-6pm WHERE: Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla AGES: All WHAT: A celebration featuring music, dancing, juggling, magic, and more.

WANT TO GO? 914-328-7001. wjcouncil.org.

WHEN: Aug. 18-19, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, 201 Gypsy Trail Road, Carmel AGES: All WHAT: Experience Native-American foods, dancing, crafts, and more.

WANT TO GO? $1 donation. 845-808-1994. crazycrow.com.

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 30, 6:30pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Sample food from other cultures and discover crafts, games, music, and costumes from countries including Italy, Jamaica, Peru, and Denmark.

WANT TO GO? $1. 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Hastings Flea FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 11, Sundays, 10am-4pm WHERE: Hastings-on-Hudson MTA Commuter Parking Lot, 131 Southside Ave., Hastings-on-Hudson AGES: All WHAT: A curated specialty flea market that features regular and rotating vendors with crafts, clothing, vintage furniture, handmade jewelry, food, as well as live music and entertainment.

WANT TO GO? hastingsflea.com.

‘Once on This Island Jr.’ Workshop Performance

‘The Heart of Robin Hood’

WHEN: Through Aug. 25, see website for dates, 7:30pm WHERE: Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, 1601 Route NY-9D, Garrison AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This iconic folktale is completely reimagined for all ages.

WANT TO GO? $10 and up. 845-265-9575. hvshakespeare.org.

The Fixx: Beach Tour

WHEN: Friday, Aug. 31, 8pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskil AGES: All WHAT: Alternative rock and MTV pioneers THE FIXX are coming to The Paramount to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the release the group’s multi-platinum Reach The Beach album.

WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com. ›› WestchesterParent 33

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Mushroom Walk FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 5, 9:30am-12pm WHERE: Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah AGES: All WHAT: Go on a walk and learn about the mushrooms that grow at the farm.

WANT TO GO? 914-864-7286. muscootfarm.org.

Special Conservatory Tour

ANIMAL LOVERS Tales for Tails FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 2, 6pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Reading with a therapy animal can help reluctant readers, new language learners, and anxious readers gain confidence. Sign-up is required.

WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Bye-Bye Butterflies

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 19, 2-3pm WHERE: Lasdon Park: Arboretum and Veterans Memorial, 2610 Amawalk Road, Katonah AGES: All WHAT: Take a tour of the Tropical Rainforest exhibit.

WANT TO GO? $7; $3 children 12 and younger. 914-864-7268. lasdonpark.org.

Saw Mill River Audubon Third Sunday Walk FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 19, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Pruyn Sanctuary, Woodmill Road, Chappaqua AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Meet at the Woodmill Road trails entrance of Pruyn Sanctuary.

WANT TO GO? 914-666-6503. sawmillriveraudubon.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 5, 1-2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Help release butterflies while mapping their journey. Then make a butterly craft to take home.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 seniors and students; $5 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 914-813-1837. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

The Not-So-Lazy Days of Summer Walk FREE

Library Live: Animal Embassy Presents Animals Rock FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 9, 6:30pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: This educational program will take families around the world with a unique group of rescued and adopted animals.

WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

WHEN: Through Sept. 2, Wednesday-Thursday, 10am-5:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 10am-5:30pm WHERE: Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor AGES: All WHAT: Take advantage of the season’s longer days at this 500-acre park.

WANT TO GO? $18; $15 seniors; $8 students and children ages 5-18; free for children younger than 4. 845-534-3115. stormking.org.

Open Wide

Play Days @ Jay FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 19, 1-2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Learn all about snakes and lizards during a hands-on presentation.

WANT TO GO? $8. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Family Art Project: Delicate Dragonfly Wings

WHEN: Aug. 25-26, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, 649 W. 249th St., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Study these ancient insects, collect transparent materials, and create delicate, iridescent wings that mimic those of the dragonfly.

WANT TO GO? $8; $4 students and seniors; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6; admission is free until 12pm on Saturday.

718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 25, 10-11:30am WHERE: Read Wildlife Sanctuary, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye AGES: All WHAT: Discover how nature is always in motion.

WANT TO GO? 914-967-8720. parks.westchestergov.com.

Extended Summer Hours

WHEN: Through Oct. 26, Fridays, 12-2pm WHERE: John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St., Katonah AGES: All WHAT: Education staff will lead a short hands-on activity at 1pm.

WANT TO GO? 914-232-5651. johnjayhomestead.org.

Getting Grounded FREE

WHEN: Through Nov. 16, Thursday-Friday, 1-1:45pm WHERE: Stone Barns, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: 13 and older WHAT: While walking the field, pastures, and greenhouse, talk to a staffer about resilient agriculture, innovation, and experimentation on the farm.

WANT TO GO? 914-366-6200. stonebarnscenter.org.

Butterfly Weekend

WHEN: Aug. 25-26, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, 120 Muser Drive, Cornwall AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Flutter in this weekend to discover the beauty of butterflies, moths, and caterpillars. There will be a presentation about monarch butterflies followed by tagging and releasing.

WANT TO GO? $10; $7 children. 845-534-5506. hhnm.org.

34

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Coming up next month: SEPT. 1-3: CORNUcopia at Philipsburg Manor, Sleepy Hollow SEPT. 8: Old New Paltz Stone House Day at Huguenot Street Historic District, New Paltz SEPT. 29: Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival at Robert E. Bell School, Chappaqua

things to do

city bound

N Y C

Family Fun in Manhattan

This high-octane band will meet and match your child’s energy level!

Get Ready to Jam!

Erika Kapin for the Intrepid Museum

The guitar-wielding Captain Jam and his live band of musicians, storytellers, and dancers take the stage and invite the audience to join a musical adventure—even giving children the chance to come up on stage, play a drum solo, or sing in a microphone at FunikiJam’s Totally Awesome Summer. By the end of the show, imagination, live music, colorful costumes, and lots of audience interaction will have helped Captain Jam complete the three-part FunikiJam mission: to have fun, jam, and celebrate summer around the world. Aug. 12 and 26, 11am. Age: 3-8. $30. Actors Temple Theatre, 339 W. 47th St., Midtown. funikijam.com/offbroadway.

The Central Park Conservancy

The Charles A. Dana Discovery Center is located on the north end of Central Park.

Charles A. Dana Discovery Center in Central Park

Located on the northern shore of the Harlem Meer, this discovery center is Central Park’s newest building and the first to be built primarily as a visitor center. The center offers a variety of community programs and free education, as well as the opportunity to borrow discovery kits, take an official Central Park tour, and learn all about the park. The Charles A. Dana Discovery Center is also home to the catch-and-release fishing program and allows visitors to borrow fishing poles.

Visit it: West 110th Street, between Malcom X Boulevard and Fifth Avenue, Harlem Can’t-miss event: Harlem Meer Performance Festival: Calpulli Mexican Dance Company: Aug. 5, 2pm Directions: Approximately a 45-minute drive or a 1-hour Metro-North and subway ride from White Plains

Jim McDonnell

Brett Deutsch

W he hile y re ou , v ’r isit e …

Families will get a breathtaking view of the late summer sky through powerful telescopes.

The Coney Island boardwalk has food options and fun for the whole family.

Twinkle, Twinkle

Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk

Ever wonder exactly where are we among the stars in the Milky Way? Do we hold a special place among the planets, stars, and galaxies in the universe? Brian Abbott and Jillian Bellovary guide families from Earth to the most distant objects in the observable universe at Astronomy Live: The Grand Tour of the Universe at the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side. Aug. 28, 6:30pm. Age: 9 and older. $15; $13.50 seniors and students. Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side. amnh.org.

Between the beach, Luna Park, the boardwalk, the food, and more, Coney Island is the perfect city summer destination. There is no shortage of fun at the seaside amusement park, filled with rides for all ages. Visit the New York Aquarium this summer to view the newly rebuilt Shark exhibit or enjoy a hotdog on the boardwalk.

Visit it: West 10th to West 12th streets, Coney Island, Brooklyn Can’t-miss event: Coney Island Sand Sculpting Contest: Aug. 18, 12pm Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 15-minute drive, or 1-hour, 2-hour Metro-North and subway ride from White Plains WestchesterParent 35

raising kids baby

Sponsored by

The Different Ways to Talk to a Baby There’s more than one method to building up your little one’s speech skills.

T

alking to your baby can be fun, but it’s not all fun and games. Everything you say to an infant (and even a toddler) influences the way and the speed at which he learns to speak.

Narrating what you do every day, singing, reading, speaking in “baby talk,” asking questions, facilitating conversations, and virtually any noises you make when you are around your infant affects her speech development as well as other skills. In all, babies and toddlers need to hear more than 20,000 words a day, according to Krysti Maloney, M.S., CCC-SLP, speech-language pathologist and supervisor at The Suffolk Center for Speech.

Clearly you need to talk a lot to your little one. But how should you speak, exactly? Whether you use nonsense words like “ittle-widdle,” sing-song speech, or address her like she is a full-grown adult, each of these approaches has a different impact on your child’s speech development. Certain methods such as baby-babble may come more naturally, while tactics like narrating what you’re doing may feel forced or uncomfortable at first.

However you talk to your baby, it is important to recognize the benefits and disadvantages of each method—and know when and how to use each.

36

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

››

By Melissa Wickes

Don’t Be Afraid of ‘Parentese’

Many experts have weighed in on the topic of baby talk, saying the best way to teach adult language to a baby is to speak to him as though he is a grown-up. However, ‘parentese’ (also known as infant-directed speech or ‘motherese’), a sing-song voice that puts emphasis on certain sounds, may be the best way to help a baby learn how to speak, according to a new Rutgers UniversityNewark study on infant-directed speech.

Parentese refers to the fluctuating speech patterns people use when speaking to babies, according to Corie Viscomi, M.A., CCC-SLP, director and speech-language pathologist at The Speech Studio in Chappaqua. While it may be second nature to speak to your baby in this cutesy, fun manner, you are actually facilitating speech development in doing so. This speech pattern makes it easier for babies to determine which words are the most important to the meaning of what you are saying because you are placing emphasis on the key words in the sentence.

“Changing the emphasis, speed, and pitch is a very good thing for infants because it helps kids differentiate between your words and background noise,” Viscomi says. “Motherese tells babies

what words to pay attention to and breaks down speech a little more, and infants need that.”

This form of speech will generally fade out gradually in accordance with the baby’s speech development, according to Viscomi, so there’s no need to determine a set time to stop speaking this way.

While changing intonation and melody when speaking, using elongated vowels and consonants, and changing pitches, it is important to remember to speak with precise pronunciation and accurate grammar, according to Maloney.

Part of speaking in parentese, according to Viscomi, is using a lot of repetition. Lisa Orban, mother of five and author of It’ll Feel Better when it Quits Hurting, found that using repetitive phrases such as ‘Who’s a good baby?’ or ‘Where’s the baby?’ were helpful in teaching her children to talk, but not accompanied by any sort of baby-talk.

“I used conversational English with them throughout their infancy going forward and never ‘dumbed down’ my speaking around them,” Orban says.

By the time her children entered preschool, Orban says they each had a far wider vocabulary than their peers and had an easier time determining words through context. “They also had a more nuanced understanding of humor and sarcasm, much higher than their age level,” she says.

Still, Megan Carolan, mother and director of policy research at the Institute for Child Success in Jersey City, NJ, emphasizes the fact that using baby talk is okay.

“Babies babble as they start finding their own abilities and they eventually try to imitate sounds,” Carolan says. “Cooing back and forth with them, especially when they are very little and just starting these noises, is a great contribution to their language development. It’s good to incorporate real words that they might hear more often (bottle, milk, crib, toy) alongside the cute versions like ‘baba.’ It doesn’t need to be one or the other.”

Avoid the Temptation of Telegraphic Speech

Telegraphic speech refers to the way children begin to speak—in shortened phrases, using only nouns and verbs, and omitting the “small words” such as adjectives and articles that make the sentence grammatically correct, according to Viscomi. Examples of telegraphic speech include “more cookie,” “mommy help,” and “doggie run.”

“Parents can be tempted to speak the same way to toddlers, assuming that it is easier for them to learn language this way,” Viscomi says. “This is not the case! Young children learn language by hearing language, so it is important to model grammatically correct sentences but in a simple way.”

Parents who use telegraphic speech more frequently tend to have children who know fewer words and take longer to learn to speak, according to a 2015 study published in the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing. The study observed 55 parentchild pairs in which the children were on average 3 and 4 years old. While speaking this way to your young child may feel natural, it is not recommended, especially to children with delayed language development and autism spectrum disorder.

“Telegraphic speech won’t help the child learn grammar,” Viscomi says. “Kids can’t use proper grammar unless they’re hearing it. If you use the full grammatical structure of a sentence, young kids will be provided with a better language model.”

Facilitate Conversation, Don’t Interrogate

The more words a child hears a day, the better. But this doesn’t mean putting her in front of the TV or downloading apps on his iPad. Make conversation with your child, no matter her age or stage of development. It is important to keep interactions with a child at any age as lengthy as possible, but 1- to 2-year-olds often feel interrogated when we quiz them with a bunch of questions, according to Viscomi. One way to keep the conversation going without putting pressure on your young child is to make statements instead of asking questions. For example, try saying, “Oh, this cow looks hungry, I think it’s going to eat something” as opposed to “What animal is this? What does a cow eat? What does the cow say?” (This tactic is helpful with older kids and teens as well.)

“With children who are beginning to exhibit babbling, I often suggest imitating the sounds you hear them make,” Maloney says.

“A ‘conversation’ made up of pure baby-babble can be a helpful learning moment—your little one will start to learn the give-andtake of conversation and be more likely to imitate things he hears you say.”

Talking about what you’re doing while you’re doing it may feel silly or seem uncomfortable, but it is actually the best and easiest way to incorporate language learning into the everyday lives of kids, according to Viscomi. This kind of learning provides kids with tangible models for new concepts and vocabulary they may not have been exposed to otherwise.

“Babies take in so much well before they are able to respond,” Carolan says. “If you have your child in the stroller and you’re in the grocery store, talk about walking down the aisle, picking up pasta for dinner, etc.”

Facilitating open-ended conversations even before children can respond fosters language engagement, according to Carolan. It is important to be conscious of the fact that a lot of conversations young children have with adults consist of instruction: “Don’t touch that,” “No,” “Put on your coat.” Instead of leading primarily with instruction, Carolan suggests creating scenarios in which children can choose between options, such as deciding which color sweatshirt they want to wear. This not only fosters a richer vocabulary and language skills, but also self-regulation skills, she says.

Reading to, singing to, talking to, and having face-to-face interaction with your child is teaching him way more than you think. Reading is such a huge ‘life hack’ for fostering language development and literacy skills,” Carolan says. “I find that when I try to make up a story off the top of my head, I freeze up.

However, keeping a book in the diaper bag is so helpful. Even if we don’t read it word for word, we talk about the pictures and what’s going on.”

While the words we choose and the way we use them matter, “the most important thing to remember is to talk to your child,” Maloney says.

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

WestchesterParent 37

raising kids teen

A Tale of Two Tests

››

The SAT and ACT for college-bound teens are more alike than different—but one may still be a better fit for your child. By Deborah Skolnik

I

f you have a teenager, she’s probably planning to take a standardized test for college admissions. And you almost certainly know there are two to choose between: the SAT and its slightly newer rival, the ACT. Both tests are operated by nonprofit organizations, follow a roughly similar format, and serve the same purpose: “It’s to try to estimate your potential college readiness,” says Tony DiGiacomo, Ph.D., of Novella Prep, an academic advising, college planning, standardized test prep, and tutoring company in Westchester and Fairfield counties.

That being the case, could a child possibly score higher on one or the other? Is it a question even worth asking?

The answer, say the people who know best, is yes. Though both tests assess scholastic skills, there are subtle differences between the two. We asked experts to share their thoughts and observations on the SAT and ACT and their design; use their insights to your child’s advantage.

SAT Savvy

The SAT is the older of the two tests, first administered to high school students in 1926. (Its letters, which originally stood for Scholastic Aptitude Test, now merely connote the brand.) But just because the SAT has a more extensive history, is it the better test for your kid?

The answer: It depends. Your child may do better on the SAT if he… …attends a public school. Public schools follow the Common Core, a set of standards for teaching and testing math and English. And as it happens, “the person who revamped the SAT [most recently] was one of the key architects behind the Common Core curriculum,” says Greg Kaplan, a college counselor, author of Earning Admission and creator of CollegePath, a free and premium app that guides college-bound students with advice tailored to their interests and school goals. It should be no surprise, then, that the SAT more closely covers what public-school kids may learn in class.

38

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

…does well with evidence-based questions. “One of the differences is the SAT allegedly gives you a little more information to use to answer some of their verbal questions,” Dr. DiGiacomo says. “Let’s say there’s a passage and a question—the ACT will tend to just ask the question, such as ‘the main character was courageous because…’ But the SAT will give you a line to look it up. They are pushing evidence-based textual understanding, the idea of being able to look it up and find it.” …has a rich vocabulary. The often-perplexing analogy questions you may remember from your own days taking the SAT are a thing of the past. The reason? “This privileged understanding of vocabulary words wasn’t a way to understand a student’s skill level,” Dr. DiGiacomo says. The SAT creators “have worked very hard to de-emphasize this. If you grow up in a lower-income household, you may not hear the same vocabulary in the home. Even if you go to the same school as a wealthier student, your overall exposure to vocabulary may be limited. But your ability to interpret and defend an argument are learned in school.” That said, the SAT “does a bit more vocabulary [than the ACT] still,” Dr. DiGiacomo notes. …is a big reader and can easily stay focused. “The reading comprehension portion on the SAT is much trickier,” Kaplan shares, so a kid who has a superior ability to pay attention to written material may distinguish himself on the SAT: “They take very boring, dense passages and use them as a pressure point to see who can get through it.” …hasn’t yet taken Algebra 2 or trigonometry. Both the SAT and the ACT cover this material, Kaplan says, “but the SAT is a more even playing field. The questions are more complex, and they require more creative thinking than the ACT questions. If I have a student who is a year behind in math I tend to recommend the SAT. It’s easier to improvise.”

ACT Insights

The ACT (its initials originally stood for American College Testing but now, like the SAT, just signify the brand) is the newer standardized test, first offered in 1959. Your child may do better on the ACT if she… …tends to work quickly. If she prides herself on her ability to get through material speedily, and prefers doing so to poring over questions at length, the ACT may suit her. “The SAT offers thirty-three percent more time per question than the ACT,” Kaplan says. But there’s a catch, he adds: “The flip slide of that coin is that the SAT questions are more complex and may require more thought and analysis.” …excels in science. The ACT has a discrete section called science. But, Dr. DiGiacomo adds, “the SAT is offering a science subscore now.” While the score isn’t based on a science section per se, it’s based on similar questions to the ACT science section—“math questions using vocabulary that implies an understanding of sciences, such as orbits and velocity. But they are really at the end of the day math questions,” he explains. …is math-minded “The ACT does cover a little more content than the SAT in mathematics,” Dr. DiGiacomo says—he tracks these subtle variations by creating a matrix of topical differences between the tests. If your child has studied math broadly and extensively, he may be better prepared for the multitude of math topics on the ACT. …likes the security of having a calculator by her side. “The SAT [math] has two parts—calculator and no calculator,” Dr. DiGiacomo says. By contrast, “the ACT lets you use the calculator for the entire test,” he notes. But don’t automatically assume this will always be the case: “Any given year, the College Board [which makes the SAT] and the ACT can change their policy,” he cautions.

…is a stickler for grammar.

“The ACT is a little more focused on grammar, punctuation, and syntax,” Dr. DiGiacomo says. “The SAT might focus more on a student’s writing style and use of evidence.”

The Power of Personal Preference While the insights listed here can be helpful, nothing will inform your child better than first-hand experience. “I recommend for all students to take a real, released practice exam for both the ACT and the SAT. That way you’re

comparing apples to apples,” Kaplan says. Use a convergence chart—there are many on the web—to determine on which test your child scored higher.

“Eighty percent of students have a clear-cut preference,” Kaplan adds. “That difference is worth up to one hundred points right out of the gate.” And rest assured that colleges are fine with that: “There is not one college in the U.S. that prefers one [test] over the other,” Kaplan says.

No matter which test your child decides to take, Kaplan

recommends he start reading The Economist or The New Yorker. “They actually pull passages from those magazines in the reading tests,” he says. “Get familiar with the complexity of the language and the structure.

Sometimes students like to prepare in a way that doesn’t involve a workbook. When you actually are studying but you don’t feel like it, I think that’s a win.” By making an informed choice, and properly preparing, your child can get a score that truly adds up to success.

www.computeradventures.com (914) 218-8175 We partner with parents, PTA, schools, school districts, home-school, scouts, recreation centers, BOCES and various organizations to provide high quality technology enrichment classes. We offer one-time event, weekly classes or week-long classes.

We work with your schedule (any time, any day), and provide all the equipment needed.

2018 Summer Camp Slots still available!

605 Millwood Road (Route 133), Mount Kisco, NY 10549

Full-day or Half-day Sessions Week 4: 7/16 to 7/20 Week 5: 7/23 to 7/27

Week 6: 7/30 to 8/03 Week 7: 8/06 to 8/10

Week 8: 8/13 to 8/17 Week 9: 8/20 to 8/24

LEADING EDGE TECHNOLOGY TOPICS: Virtual Reality Apps Creation 3D Game Development Build A Computer Drone Programming 3D Modeling/Printing

MORE TOPICS ON....…

Coding/Programming Languages Game Design Animation Graphics Robotics Minecraft Electronics

WestchesterParent 39

family life finances

Cash for College

›› If your teen puts in the work, she can graduate college with minimal debt. By Barbara Russo

C

ollege is expensive. Even with financial aid, many students still have to take out loans to help with tuition, books, and other costs that go along with achieving a higher education.

This often leaves them in debt long after they’ve graduated.

Fortunately, there are many scholarship opportunities out there.

The U.S. Department of Education and universities give out billions of dollars in scholarship and grant money each year, according to Debt.org. Other organizations, including private corporations and nonprofit groups, offer scholarships too. This is all money that is given to qualifying students as gifts and does not need to be paid back.

The term “qualifying” can mean many different things, depending on the scholarship’s criteria. A student doesn’t necessarily have to excel at sports or academics; scholarship opportunities are available to students from a variety of backgrounds and who have a wide range of hobbies or interests. There’s an abundance of information online about these opportunities, but it can be overwhelming.

The good news is, we’ve spoken to some experts and compiled a list of 10 online resources that offer different kinds of scholarships and scholarship information. Keep in mind there are many more scholarship information sites out there. No matter your child’s age, it’s worth it to start looking early so you don’t miss any deadlines—and have time to gather as much information as possible.

One important tip to keep in mind before you even launch your favorite Internet browser: Write down your child’s family background and academic statistics and achievements. Almost all of these sites will require this information for setting up profiles or applying for scholarships.

“You go to these scholarship search engines, and they’ll want you to enter this specific information. They ask really specific questions about your family heritage and stuff, and that’s what they’re using in their algorithms,” says Kim Stezala, The Scholarship Lady® and author 40

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

of Scholarships 101: The Real-World Guide to Getting Cash for College.

“If you just hop on the Internet and don’t have that information, it’s going to take you more time.”

Now, on to our list:

Scholarships.com

One of the most popular and established scholarship search sites, it boasts more than 16 million registered users. Its free, quick profile format allows you to enter your child’s basic information to get instant match results to potential scholarship opportunities.

Fastweb.com

Owned by Monster.com, the site offers access to more than 1.5 million scholarships. It’s a free student-to-scholarship matching service that uses a quick profile format and also offers an array of college prep tools.

Bonus: The site’s new Deals and Promos feature lists discounts available to students from major retailers, including Dell, J. Crew, and Ford.

Scholly

This is both a website (myscholly.com) and mobile app. Like the sites listed above, it uses the scholarship-matching platform to generate a list of scholarships suited for the individual user. The site was founded by Christopher Gray, who grew up in poverty in Birmingham, AL, and was able to win $1.3 million in scholarship money. His experience gave him the idea for Scholly, which has helped hundreds of thousands of students and families find more than $70 million in scholarship awards for college.

JLVCollegeCounseling.com

Founded by Jessica Velasco, a former college-admissions professional, the site provides free information about scholarships, college prep, admission, and financial aid. The scholarships are organized in lists with

deadlines for each month. There are also scholarships based on grade level, major, residence, hobbies, and religion.

With 10 years of experience in higher education, Velasco knows how much work it takes to apply for scholarships and recommends students take the time to perfect each application. “Quality is always better than quantity,” she says. “Many times students get so caught up in sending out as many scholarship applications as possible and forget to make sure their applications are of the highest quality. In addition to proofreading applications...students must make sure their applications are unique.”

Cappex.com

Using the popular student-scholarship match system, the free site lists thousands of private scholarships. It also provides more than $30,000 in its own unique scholarships.

― WIN ―

4 TICKETS AND A MEET AND GREET TO

Niche.com

Applicants can search by category or get matched to scholarships by creating a quick profile. The site also offers information on college rankings plus an admissions calculator.

University Websites

In many cases, a college admissions office is given a budget it can use to give varying amounts of scholarships to incoming students based on merit factors such as high test scores, good grades, or talents. Money that comes this way is renewed all four years of schooling, but each school’s application process is different.

“We want students to go on the school’s websites and in the top search window type ‘scholarships,’ and it will tell you, ‘here’s how we handle scholarships, here’s how we get them out,’” says Elizabeth Hartley, owner of Scholarship Gold Consulting. “A school’s website is one of their most powerful tools for scholarships.”

Some universities, particularly prestigious ones, have endowments that can provide financial aid to students, Hartley adds. “Even if a family makes too much money to get aid to go to a local state school, they may be able to get money from a more elite school,” she says.

Drawing will take place August 28th.

CO-SPONSER

SUMMER RAFFLE! www.discoverWCM.org | (914) 421-5050 | 100 Playland Parkway, Rye

Googling for Dollars

Stezala recommends coming up with list of traits about your teen and family background—things that go beyond academics and can help uncover hidden dollars—and use these terms in your searches.

“Is either parent or a grandparent part of the military or a veteran?

And is anyone in your family a member of any kind of professional organization or civic group?,” Stezala poses. “I find sometimes that students make the mistake of only doing Internet searches about themselves, so the keywords that they’re using aren’t going to peel back the layers of some of these smaller local scholarships that can really add up.”

Local Community Foundation Websites

Some of these manage what are called donor-advised funds, Stezala says. Donors who may not want to set up their own scholarship program will give their money to a community foundation, and it’s the foundation’s responsibility to collect applications and do the judging.

“They are a great resource...even if they don’t give out scholarships, their websites might have links to local scholarships,” Stezala says.

The Net Price Calculator

The net price refers to the amount a student pays after receiving scholarships and other financial aid that do not need to be paid back. Hartley recommends using net price calculators to find out what your estimated price tag for college will be.

Searching online for scholarship money will take some time and patience, but it’s hard work that will ultimately pay off, both in savings and for your child’s education.

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

a quality children’s consignment store • children’s clothing: (sizes 0-14) • maternity clothes: casual, business & dressy • baby equipment: cribs, strollers, high chairs, bouncers Lots of Toys, Books & Games

WINTER CLOTHING ARRIVING DAILY MOST MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Mon. thru Sat. 10-5 • Thurs. 10-6 • Closed Mondays in August & September 1st

10 main street • dobbs ferry • 914-693-3610

WestchesterParent 41

PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT AMY ROSEN COOKING BY DESIGN 917-903-1451 amyrosencookingbydesign.com amyrosencookingbydesign@gmail.com Have a cooking party for your child’s next birthday. From Cupcake Wars, to Pizza Creations, to chocolate melting, molding, and decorating, your kids will enjoy the fully hands-on experience.

CLOWNS.COM Proudly Serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000; 718-971-5862 clowns.com We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals.

DAVE’S CAST OF CHARACTERS 914-235-7100 davescast.com Make your party a special one! Dave’s entertainment services include more than 100 costumed characters. From princesses and superheroes to pirates and tea parties, there’s something for everyone.

BIRTHDAY GIFTS GIRL AGAIN 4 Martine Ave., White Plains 914-358-1460 girlagain.com girlagain@yesshecaninc.org Girl AGain is a resale boutique for gently used American Girl dolls and books, which make great birthday gifts!

TILLY...A DEER’S TALE 914-764-5564 tillyadeerstale.com Tilly...A Deer’s Tale is about a real deer that lives in upstate New York and faces challenges after an accident. This powerful story is meant to inspire children living with physical challenges or limitations. The book makes a great birthday gift!

PARTY PLACES A-GAME SPORTS 856 Main St., New Rochelle 914-278-9477 agamesports.net info@agamesports.net A-Game Sports offers a variety of birthday party packages for children of all ages.

42

Each 90-minute party includes supervised playtime with two coaches on a private section of turf.

ARTISTREE PERFORMING ARTS 114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-835-2200 artistreearts.com heather@artistreearts.com Artistree Performing Arts creates amazing birthday parties for children ages 1-10.

Have your party in our beautifully renovated studio or let us come to you with just the entertainment.

BACH TO ROCK MAMARONECK 130 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck 914-341-1457 mamaroneck.bachtorock.com mamaroneck@bachtorock.com Looking for a fun birthday party at a reasonable price? We have three different parties—Rock Star, Karaoke, or Rock City— for an unforgettable experience!

BLUE MOON MEXICAN CAFÉ 7-27 Pondfield Road, Bronxville 914-337-4000 42 Kinderkamack Road, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 201-782-9500 23 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, NJ 201-541-0600 327 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, NJ 201-891-1331 595 Broadway, Norwood, NJ 201-784-3311 bluemoonmexicancafe.com Looking to spice up your child’s next birthday party without sending your savings south of the border? Your party guests will revel in a fun-filled celebration with a mouth-watering menu. Call today to find out more!

CENTRAL PARK DANCE 450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-723-2940 centralparkdance.com centralparkdance@gmail.com Have the birthday party of your dreams!

Choose from Fairytale Ballet, Hip-Hop, and Fun-n-Fit party games. We provide a beautifully decorated studio, a separate space to serve food, paper goods, and an experienced, professional staff.

CHELSEA PIERS CONNECTICUT 1 Blachley Road, Stamford, CT 203-989-1100 chelseapiersct.com/birthday Birthday parties at Chelsea Piers are action-packed! Options include gymnastics, dance, basketball, volleyball, soccer, T-ball, ice-skating, ninja warrior, gaga, and water slides! New this fall is an inflatable obstacle course and bounce house party option!

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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

CREATIVE CORNER OF LARCHMONT 7 Addison St., Larchmont 914-833-2880 creativecornerlarchmont.com creativecornerlarchmont@gmail.com Creative Corner is the perfect place to celebrate a birthday! Art party options include wood toys, treasure boxes, canvas bags, ceramic piggy banks, and canvas paintings. We will help every step of the way.

JODI’S GYM 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 244 E. 84th St., Manhattan 212-772-7633 jodisgym.com Kids run, jump, climb, tumble, slide, bounce, and giggle to their hearts’ delight at Jodi’s Gym, where action-packed parties and unmatched experience have won children’s hearts for 34 years.

FUNFUZION AT NEW ROC CITY 29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle 914-637-7575, option 1 funfuziononline.com Calling all birthday superstars! You and your guests will be dazzled by a unique, interactive party experience!

KINETIC SPORTS CLUB 872 Pelham Parkway, Pelham Manor 914-738-4000 kineticsportsclub.com Slide into your next birthday in style and celebrate your special day in our indoor, year-round water park, fun for all ages!

Call 914-738-4000 for more information.

GREAT PLAY OF SCARSDALE INTERACTIVE GYM FOR KIDS 969B Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-713-3470 greatplay.com/scarsdale Our award-winning, high-energy parties are spectacular events in our amazing Interactive Gym™. We customize each party based on your child’s interests, using some of our most popular Great Play games.

LIL CHAMELEON 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe 914-346-5148 lilchameleon.com Come party with Lil Chameleon! Book our Silver or Gold Package and choose from truly unique experiences in our bright and stylish space.

GYMCATS GYMNASTICS AND BIRTHDAY PARTY CENTER 1 Odell Plaza at Equalize Fitness, Yonkers 914-965-7676 gymcats.net We are famous for our unique private birthday parties. Our enthusiastic, interactive staff will have partygoers laughing and yelling as they swing on rings, jump, bounce, climb, and roll through our super obstacle course.

HOMMOCKS PARK ICE RINK Boston Post Road and Weaver Street, Larchmont 914-834-1069 hommocksparkicerink.org Have your birthday party on ice! Host your next special party at the coolest place in town, Mamaroneck’s popular enclosed Hommocks Park Ice Skating Rink.

ISG GYMNASTICS Annie Pipia and Joann Distler, directors 151 Crotona Ave., Harrison 914-835-0010 isggymnastics.com ISG is a fun-filled, unique way to celebrate a birthday complete with trampoline, balance beams, bars, vault, tumbling, and air castle. All ages, 1 through teens. Age-appropriate program and equipment. Fun for all!

THE LITTLE GYM 777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072 tlgscarsdaleny.com 2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side, Manhattan 212-799-1225 tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues), Upper East Side, Manhattan 212-787-1124 tlguppereastsideny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444 tlgwaldwicknj.com A private party at The Little Gym is a perfect way to celebrate your child’s next birthday. Gymnastics, games, obstacle courses, trampoline, sports, and music are tailored to your child’s interests!

MACINSPIRES 1923 Palmer Ave., Larchmont 914-630-7338 larchmont@macinspires.com 37 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, CT 203-531-5720 sayhello@macinspires.com macinspires.com MacInspires parties are a wonderfully creative, collaborative, and educational way to celebrate birthdays! Parties feature STEAM activities such as 3-D design, robotics, and coding.

ACTIVITIES

MSQUASH ACCELERATOR 23 Waterfront Place, Port Chester 1-844-MSQUASH (677-8274) msquash.com info@msquash.com Join us for a fun-filled birthday party, with interactive sports games and happy faces as we learn about emotions in a fun, cool way!

MUSICAL MUNCHKINS 167 Scarsdale Road, Tuckahoe 914-771-7000 musicalmunchkins.com Musical Munchkins is the perfect birthday party activity for babies through age 5!

Enjoy group drumming, funny favorite sing-along songs, fabulous dancing scarves, and more!

Join

EVENTS

MORE

USA, the coolest place to have a party in Westchester.

STUDIO B DANCE CENTER 277 White Plains Road (entrance on Prospect Avenue), Eastchester 914-793-2799 studiobdance.com Each party at Studio B is uniquely designed to give the birthday child an exciting, personalized experience.

Boys and girls ages 2 and older enjoy dancing and playing games to their favorite music.

WESTCHESTER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

100 Playland Parkway, Rye 914-421-5050 discoverwcm.org/birthday-parties earlychildhood@discoverwcm.org Places to build, explore, and discover, the Westchester Children’s Museum is Westchester’s newest, most creative place for birthday parties! Have the museum’s exhibits, MakerSpace, and party room to yourself—our parties offer exclusive use of the museum space when the general public has gone home.

NYMetroParents

PINE BROOK FITNESS 130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-636-1019 pinebrookfitness.com Pine Brook Fitness, awarded as Westchester’s Best Multi-Sport Family Fitness Facility, provides a fitness experience for you and your family and an exciting venue for birthday parties.

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

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

YOUNG AT ART STUDIO INC. SPORTIME USA 1088 Central Ave., Scarsdale 380 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-2111 x2 914-723-9229 A unique birthday party experience where sportimeusa.com each child brings home a personalized Birthday parties? That’s our specialty!

ACTIVITIES EVENTS MORE piece of art!

Celebrate your birthday at Sportime

PROFESSIONAL Join

SERVICES NYMetroParents

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

Get advance notice on activities, LICE participate in group discussions BRIARCLIFF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY LICE CLINICS OF AMERICA: DR. RENUKA BIJOOR WESTCHESTER and receive special notices.

DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS

325 S. Highland Ave., Briarcliff Manor 9 Freight Way, Scarsdale 914-762-4151 914-996-4315 briarcliffpediatricdentistry.com liceclinicswestchester.com Lice Clinics of America will remove lice in just Laser technology in our office has www.facebook.com/nymetroparents one hour! All lice and eggs—even Super Lice— changed the way your children receive are eliminated in a single, 1-hour treatment. dental care. No more shots or drill!

Cavities can be treated with ease in no Affordable treatments, no toxic chemicals. time. Please call for a free consult.

TUTORS & TEST PREP FOSTER CARE & ADOPTION

EYE LEVEL Eye Level of Rye Brook BERKSHIRE FARM CENTER & 27 Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook SERVICES FOR YOUTH 914-933-0566, Piers MacDonald Serving all of Westchester County Eye Level of Briarcliff 631-420-4444 501 N. State Road, Briarcliff berkshirefarm.org 914-741-0407, Margaret Mak Berkshire Farm Center & Services for myeyelevel.com advance notice on activities, Youth helps childrenGet find safety and Math and English programs for ages 3-14. comfort in the homes of foster parents. participate in group discussions Whether the immediate goal is for early Become a foster parent and give the gift learning, remedial education, or academic and receive special notices. of family! advancement, Eye Level is the answer.

Join

NYMetroParents

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

Join

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

EVENTS

MORE

Join

NYMetroParents

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

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

CHILDREN’S

ART CLASSES 1 - 18 years

914-723-9229 info@youngatartworkshop.com www.youngatartworkshop.com Young at Art Studio Inc. 1088 Central Park Avenue Scarsdale, NY WestchesterParent 43

OPEN HOUSES 2018 Clay Art Center WESTCHESTER Get lice free today in just one hour! Lice Clinics of America eliminates all lice and eggs — even Super Lice — in a single, one hour treatment. No need for you or your child to sit still for 2-3 hours of combing or to return for additional visits.

Kids love us! Our treatments are very affordable, starting as low as $99, and never more than $199.

No toxic chemicals!

Call us 24/7 at (914) 996-4340

Appointments available seven days a week; we can even handle your after hours emergency!

9 FREIGHT WAY, SCARSDALE NY 10583

liceclinicswestchester.com | info@liceclinicswestchester.com

40 Beech St., Port Chester 914-937-2047 Kelly O’Sullivan, youth director clayartcenter.org; mail@clayartcenter.org Join us for an open house on Sept. 8 from 1-4pm.

Corbin’s Crusaders Day Camp: for boys and girls ages 3½–14

471 North St., Greenwich, CT 203-632-9763 corbinscrusaders.com; info@corbinscrusaders.com Schedule a private tour during camp this summer. Campers are welcome from one-eight weeks. Character through sports and adventure.

Hudson Country Montessori School

Ms. Neeru Bhambree director of education 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 914-636-6202 hudsoncountry.org Tours are available weekdays. Please call to schedule a visit and see how we inspire a love of learning.

Meet the Health Care Professional Caring for Kids Dr. Ivis Getz 140 Lockwood Ave., Suite 315, New Rochelle 914-355-2265 caringpediatricdentistry.com caringpediatricdentistry@gmail.com

Dr. Ivis Getz, a board-certified pediatric dentist, is committed to providing the highest quality dental care to infants, children, adolescents, and those with special needs. Dr. Getz recognizes that each child is a unique individual who deserves compassion and respect, which is evident in her friendly manner and calm demeanor. The dental team truly enjoys working with kids and will treat your child with warmth and compassion.

The practice participates in many dental insurance plans and has convenient after-school and Saturday appointments available.

A Lavishly Illustrated Children’s Story of Friendship and Overcoming Obstacles

LOOKING FOR

Tilly...

GREAT DEALS? A Deer’s Tale

(BASED ON A TRUE STORY)

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.

Follow the adventures of a rescued baby deer.

Share Tilly’s courage and valiant recovery.

Call 914-764-5564

to schedule a free Tilly Event for schools, libraries & hospitals

Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

Available at Barnes & Noble, Walden Books and at Amazon.com For books preview and sale, visit us at:

www.tillyadeerstale.com

44

Saving money on a New York City family day is easy!

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

LOOKING FOR

Saving money on a

raising kids ad index

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

Nurtury (The) ............................................15 Rye YMCA ................................................27

Gym Cats Gymnastics ..............................48 Rye YMCA ................................................27 Treetop Adventures ....................................7 ISGC Gym ................................................48 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester .........................27 Rye YMCA ................................................27

birthday / party services Clay Art Center .........................................26 Great Play - Scarsdale .............................25 Gym Cats Gymnastics ..............................48 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester .........................27 Little Gym - Westchester ..........................47 MSquash ..................................................23 Pinebrook Studios ....................................24

classes Alcott Montessori ......................................21 Belle School of Music ...............................25 Clay Art Center .........................................26 Curtain Call Inc. ........................................26

health Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry ......................11 Caring for Kids Pediatric Dentistry............44 Fidelis Care New York ................................3

Easter Seals Project Explore ....................25 Lice Clinics of America - Westchester ......44 Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate ....13 Main Street Pediatric Dentistry .................13 Gym Cats Gymnastics ..............................48 Pace University.........................................15 Joffrey Ballet School .................................10 MSquash ..................................................23

music

Musical Munchkins ...................................28 Belle School of Music ...............................25

Nurtury (The) ............................................15 Musical Munchkins ...................................28 Rye YMCA ................................................27 Purchase College / SUNY Aquatic Program ....25 Starlight Starbright Music .........................27 Sportime USA Inc .....................................31 Starlight Starbright Music .........................27 Treetop Adventures ....................................7 Studio B Dance.........................................28 Westchester Children’s Museum ..............41 WCC - Center for the Arts...........................2

dance

Ann & Andy ...............................................23 Central Park Dance ..................................27 play spaces Central Park Dance ..................................27 Joffrey Ballet School .................................10 Great Play - Scarsdale .............................25 Clay Art Center .........................................26 Rye YMCA ................................................27 Treetop Adventures ....................................7 Curtain Call Inc. ........................................26 Studio B Dance.........................................28 Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate ....13 Goddard School - Hastings ......................31 Great Play - Scarsdale .............................25 Hudson Country Montessori .......................9 ISGC Gym ................................................48 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester .........................27 Kids Base and The Little School...............24 Little Gym - Westchester ..........................47 Mabel’s Labels Inc. ...................................11

education Alcott Montessori ......................................21 Children’s Jewish Education Group..........23 Dicker Reading Method ..............................5 FASNY ......................................................21

religious Children’s Jewish Education Group..........23

retail

INFLATABLES CHARACTER SHOWS FAIRYTALE PRINCESS PARTIES THEME PARTIES SHOWS & ATTRACTIONS

COMPLETE CARNIVAL & PARTY PLANNING

914-235-7100 www.davescast.com

German International School of New York ... 23 Tilly...A Deer’s Tale ...................................44 Goddard School - Hastings ......................31 Hudson Country Montessori .......................9

special needs

Kids Base and The Little School...............24 Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry ......................11

Pinebrook Studios ....................................24 Sylvan Learning Centers ..........................19 Play Group Theatre ..................................17 SUNY Aquatic Program ............................25

CARNIVALS

Affordables ...............................................41

Milestone School (The).............................44 Milestone School (The).............................44 Dicker Reading Method ..............................5 MSquash ..................................................23 Nurtury (The) ............................................15 Easter Seals Project Explore ....................25 Musical Munchkins ...................................28 Pace University.........................................15 Sportime USA Inc .....................................31 Nurtury (The) ............................................15 Soundview Preparatory School ................28

Purchase College /

100 + CHARACTERS, INTERACTIVE DJ’S FROZEN & NEW KIDS BAND ‘THE HONEY BEATS’ PHOTO BOOTHS NEW! ROBOTIC ANIMALS (ROBO ZOO)

performing arts / acting

Curtain Call Inc. ........................................26 Westchester Parent Party Planner ...........45 Westchester Children’s Museum ..............41 Joffrey Ballet School .................................10 Young At Art ..............................................43 Young At Art ..............................................43 Play Group Theatre ..................................17

camps

PARTY PLANNER

family entertainment / events / outings

Want to know the best

activities for families?

sports MSquash ..................................................23 Pinebrook Studios ....................................24

Purchase College / SUNY Aquatic Rye YMCA ................................................27 Inn at East Hill Farm (The) .......................41 Program ....................................................25 Soundview Preparatory School ................28 Playland Park ...........................................43 Rye YMCA ................................................27 Starlight Starbright Music .........................27 Sportime USA Inc .....................................31 Studio B Dance.........................................28 Treetop Adventures ....................................7 WCC - Center for the Arts...........................2 Westchester Children’s Museum ..............41 Westchester Computer Adventures, LLC..... 39 Young At Art ..............................................43

family travel Inn at East Hill Farm (The) .......................41

Play Group Theatre ..................................17

tutors Dicker Reading Method ..............................5

child care / day care All Aboard (Croton/Ossining) ....................26

theater

fitness

Eye Level Learning Center - Corporate ....13

Ann & Andy ...............................................23 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester .........................27 Sylvan Learning Centers ..........................19

Subscribe to our family activity

email newsletter

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER WestchesterParent 45

raising kids quotables

How did you feel when you were chosen as a f inalist in our cover contest?

“I was very happy and excited to be able to come.”

—Daniella, 14, Suffolk

“Excited. I’ve never done this before and I think it’s really exciting.”

—Brielle, 12, Rockland

“I felt great! I mean, I was excited for this!”

—Chazz, 12, Manhattan

“Excited!”

—Sophia, 4, Rockland

“I don’t know.”

—Aaliyah, 4, Rockland

[Ran away] —Jaden, 3, Manhattan

“I felt excited because this is something I wanted to do for a while. I like acting and modeling and this stuff. So I was super happy when I found out I won.”

“I hope that you look at today, tomorrow, and the rest of your life seeking out the nothing moments.

I hope we can all realize that the nothing moments are what we are going to be holding onto during our last few years. We aren’t going to care about how much money we made or how many small wonders we photographed. But we will remember the sound of our children’s’ laughter and how good we made people feel.

I wish for you a lifetime of nothing.”

—Dillon, 11, Westchester

“I felt happy.”

—Samantha, 6, Nassau

“I was excited.”

—Scarlett, 4, Queens Check out our upcoming September issue to find out who the Grand Prize winners are!

Thriving in College “Teens may think that heading off to college will be four years of partying. But what they might not realize is college can be one of the most stressful times of their lives. To ensure your teen is successful in college and beyond, spend the summer preparing him to effectively deal with stress, handle the anxiety that comes with it, and learn from it to reduce stress in the future.”

—Licensed clinical psychologist Lata McGinn Ph.D., in an article entitled “How Can I Help Prepare My Teen for Stress in College?”

Read the whole story at nymetroparents.com/college-stress

More NYMetroParents.com Highlights:

—Vera Sweeney, in a post entitled “The Nothing Moments” on ladyandtheblog.com

SUMMER FUN: See the top 100 summer activities in the NY metro region at nymetroparents.com/summer-100

“I start each day with the best intentions. I’m going to apply all those expert parenting tips I’ve read. I’m going to be present. Mindful.

Patient. And…then the kids wake up.”

GIDDYUP: Where to go horseback riding in the NYC area (nymetroparents.com/horseback)

—Ilana Wiles, in a post entitled “A Day Inside Mom’s Brain,” on mommyshorts.com

46

August 2018 | nymetroparents.com

GIVE A LISTEN: Podcasts to help you navigate parenting’s ups and downs (nymetroparents.com/podcasts) PLAY IT SAFE: Learn how to keep your family out of the ER in the summer months (nymetroparents.com/ summersafety)

At The Little Gym, we complement the traditional school experience with unique classes that revolve around active play. Our students are encouraged to jump, flip, and swing their way towards increased health, focus, knowledge, and happiness.

Big Discoveries at The Little Gym. Find your kid's happy place with an Introductory Experience!

The Little Gym of Scarsdale tlgscarsdaleny.com 914-722-0072 The Little Gym of Upper West Side tlgupperwestsideny.com 212-799-1225

Now

enrolling for Classes and Camps

Parent/Child Classes • Pre-K Gymnastics Grade School Gymnastics • Dance Karate • Sports Skills • Awesome Birthday Bashes Parents’ Survival Nights • Camps

ISG GYMNASTICS GYMNASTICS BENEFITS YOUR CHILD’S • Skills to enhance other sports • Self Esteem • Coordination • Strength • Flexibility & More!

GYMNASTICS CLASSES

Ages 2 & up | Beginner – Advanced Preschool open gym for 5 & under

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Gymnastics, Trampoline, Air Castle & More. All parties are private, and our amazing staff will make your party one to remember!

151 CROTONA AVE / HARRISON 914−835−0010 / ISGGYMNASTICS.COM Gymnastics Classes

Gymnastics Benefits Your Child’s

• Skills to enhance other sports • Self Esteem • Coordination • Strength • Flexibility & More!

Boys & Girls • Ages 20 months & up Beginner-Advanced Cheerleading • Private Lessons

Private Birthday Parties

Air castles • Trampolines • Giant Slide Obstacles Courses, foam filled pit & more

One Odell Plaza, Yonkers/Hastings border

Located at (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Parkway)

Ask About Our Toddler Open Gym Programs!

A walk in, non-instructional playtime for crawlers to 4 year olds

gymcats.net 914-965-7676

Register now for

FALL

All of our famous parties are private,and our interactive staff will make your child’s party a very special one.