Westchester
Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM NOVEMBER 2017
Changing the World Amazing kids who started their own nonprofits
Choosing the Right Doc 15 questions to ask Plus: Kids and eating disorders
SpecialParent
Abilities, Not Disabilities
A new approach to kids with special needs
HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS
WestchesterParent
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Mastering mathematics. Counting blessings.
Invest in a Catholic education when it makes the most difference. Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New York offer a unique combination of academic and spiritual development that helps children of all backgrounds get the best start in life. Our students learn in an environment where respect, courtesy and service to others are always part of the curriculum -- and they are outpacing New York State and New York City public school students in both Math and English Language Arts (ELA) proficiency standards. We invite you to see the value of a Catholic education: schedule a tour at a nearby school at any time, or attend one of the upcoming TOURING TUESDAY open house events being held at 133 participating Catholic elementary schools.
Upcoming TOURING TUESDAY Open Houses November 14 and December 5 from 9-11am Call our bi-lingual helpline (646) 794-2885 or visit CatholicSchoolsNY.org/touring-tuesdays to book a tour.
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
Parent/Child Classesŏđ Pre-K Gymnastics Grade School Gymnastics đ Dance Karate đ Sports Skills đ Awesome Birthday Bashes Parents’ Survival Nights đ Camps WestchesterParent
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NYMetroParents
Helping Parents Make Better Decisions
Contents
November 2017 ››
46
Features
14 15 Questions to Ask a Pediatrician How to find the best doctor for your family’s needs
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16 Kids Making a Difference These five young adults launched their own nonprofits. Here’s how—and how your child can, too. 22 Thanksgiving Desserts Kids Can Help Make Amanda Grant shares recipes from Kids in the Kitchen that are perfect for children to help bake. 40 Does My Child Have an Eating Disorder? Three experts share what to look out for, the physical and mental health risks, and getting your child the help she needs. 46 Focus on Your Abilities When your child with special needs starts to feel discouraged, let him read this, or use this as a guide, to help him through it.
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Connections
6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 11 NYMP Q&A: Jess Shatkin, M.D., M.P.H., talks adolescent angst. 54 Voices: Growing Up with a Brother with Special Needs
Fun & Activities 12 20 26 29 38
22
Family Activities CALENDAR ››
DIY Corner: Making Snot! Where-To Guide: Volunteer with Your Kids Outing: Long Island City, Queens Family Activities Calendar Where-To Guide: Ice-Skating
Directories
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50 51 51 52 52 53
Party Central Open Houses Professional Services Meet the Health Care Professional Party Planner Advertisers’ Index
Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com) Clothing provided by Appaman (appaman.com)
››
ON THE COVER ›› 14 Choosing the Right Doc 16 Changing the World 40 Kids and Eating Disorders 46 Abilities, Not Disabilities facebook.com/nymetroparents
@NYMetroParents
Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!
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NOVEMBER 2017 • Vol.17 • No.3
NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com
EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress
EDITOR’S NOTE
MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf
Season of Gratitude
L
ike many parents, I struggle to instill in my kids a sense of caring about the world around them and empathy for those less fortunate than we are. I see glimmers of hope occasionally, such as when we attended a political rally as a family or when my kids decide to donate some of their toys to charity. But sparking in our children a sustained sense of responsibility for other people and for the welfare of our planet is a daunting job. So it was with a mix of awe and envy that I read Julia Hyman’s report about amazing local kids and teens who went beyond caring and even volunteering to actually found nonprofit organizations, allowing them to have a much broader and longer-term impact than they could on their own (p. 16). If you have a budding social entrepreneur on your hands, you’ll also find tips for kids who want to start their own charities. For the rest of us, we offer a guide to local organizations at which families can volunteer this holiday season (p. 20). As we head into Thanksgiving and then December holidays, food—and lots of it— will be front and center at our family gatherings. It’s a time to feast and indulge, but we also need to be conscious of the fact our attitude and behavior toward food sends a message to our kids. For too many young people, food turns into its own struggle, leading to potentially serious health problems. Katelin Walling tells us what parents need to know about kids and eating disorders, from preventing them to recognizing the signs, to treating them when they happen (p. 40). When health problems do strike our kids, it’s essential we have a trusted pediatrician to turn to. For our family, that’s been a huge comfort and help in times of crisis. If you’ve got doubts about your doctor—or are expecting your first child and seeking a pediatrician—Bethany Braun-Silva offers 15 questions to ask that will help you find the right match (p. 14). For those kids with ongoing special needs, the barrage of specialists, therapists, tutors, and doctors can sometimes feel overwhelming and, I am sure, demoralizing. To help combat those feelings, check out our feature about focusing on kids’ abilities, rather than their disabilities (p. 46). And then see what that looks like by reading Amanda Marrone’s heartwarming essay on growing up with a brother who has special needs (p. 54). This issue marks my last one as editorial director here at NYMetroParents, and in this season of gratitude I want to say thank you to all of you, our readers, for being part of our community of parents and enriching my time here. I leave you with wishes for a happy Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and blessings!
REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Jordan Laird To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents
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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS
nymetroparents.com/np-wp
Who: Creative Corner What’s New: Two after-school art classes for younger artists and programming for playdates, all of which were added in September. The Art Around the World class teaches artists ages 4-5 about the art of different cultures. The Where are we Today? class for students in kindergarten-third grade teaches the basic elements of art in a variety of mediums including watercolors, collage, and sculpture. Creative Corner is also hosting playdates, during which it provides an activity for playgroups and takes care of setup and cleanup. Want More Info: 7 Addison St., Larchmont; 914-833-2880; info@creativecornerlarchmont. com; creativecornerlarchmont.com
Courtesy Creative Corner
Larchmont Art Studio Expands Programming
Creative Corner offers classes, workshops, camps, and birthday parties for children ages 2 and older, including adults.
Who: Pixelcraft Kids What’s New: Comics & Pop Art, a class for children in the first-fifth grades, which launched Oct. 12 and takes place Thursdays from 3:305:30pm through Dec. 7. Comics & Pop Art teaches students art fundamentals and advanced techniques while working with different materials, mediums, and designs to create art. Pixelcraft Kids also offers Minecraft Unplugged, a screen-free spin on the video game for children in kindergarten-fifth grade (Wednesdays and Fridays through Dec. 8), as well as Lego Minifigures, during which children in the first-fifth grades become Lego designers (Tuesdays through Dec. 5). Want More Info: 2097 Palmer Ave., Larchmont; 914-575-2515; hello@ pixelcraftkids.com; pixelcraftkidsclasses.com
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Courtesy Pixelcraft Kids
Children’s Activity Center Adds New Class
Pixelcraft Kids offers classes (such as Minecraft Unplugged, above), camps, birthday parties, and an after-school program for children in kindergarten-sixth grade.
SCHOOLS MARKETPLACE
OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, November 5 at 1:00 pm Register at whitbyschool.org/openhouse
Looking for an Alternative? Come visit the Lower Hudson Valley's only truly progressive school and hear how Blue Rock's unique learning environment is an excellent option for grades K-8.
Whitby students are creative, hands-on learners who explore big ideas and ask big questions. Students ‘dig for the why,’ and teachers spark their curiosity along the way. As a result, Whitby graduates are masterfully prepared for high school and beyond. whitbyschool.org | months—Grade Lake Avenue, Greenwich, Connecticut
Information Session & Campu s Tour November 4 & January 20 Please RSVP at 845-535-3353 or admissions@bluerockschool.org
Where Learning Comes Alive! West Nyack, NY
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Learning the right answers will get your child through school. Learning how to learn will get your child through life!
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Inspiring curious, creative, and gifted minds. Toddlers through 8th grade. 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle, NY 10804 • 914-636-6202 • www.hudsoncountry.org WestchesterParent
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UOTABLES As Marlowe grew from a baby to a toddler, I thought a lot about structure and discipline. About the dichotomy of allowing our children to be children, but also having behavioral expectations that they are aware of in order to create a structure that allows them to blossom and mature and learn. —Eva Amurri Martino, in a post entitled “Disciplining a Toddler,” on her blog happilyevaafter.com
in an instagram How city kids get to their recital. #DDF #ddfrecitals2017 #citykid #mta #subway #dance (Posted by @thebrooklynmom, aka Vanessa Muskopf, who blogs at thebrooklynmom.com)
WHEN FAMILY IS FAR
in an instagram My two champions!! Lately these two have been really pushing each other’s buttons. The arguments happen every hour on the hour, and it gets a bit out of hand. They have mastered it, and I honestly truly believe they do it out of enjoyment!? They are competing with each other a lot more— to be “better” or for everyone’s attention. It’s been tough, something really difficult to watch over & over through out the course of the day. But I also try and remind myself that this is normal sibling stuff, and they absolutely adore each other no matter how much they annoy each other #brothersforlife #bestfriends #momlife #momstruggles #motherofboys (Posted by @mommygorjess, aka Jessica Salazar, who blogs at www.mommygorjess.com)
“I find myself getting depressed about the state of the world, wondering if I made a mistake bringing kids into it, wondering if anything I do even matters. But when the world feels like too much, I have to remind myself to focus on the way I can make a difference—especially because it’s been right in front of me all along, right here at home.” —Chaunie Brusie, in a post entitled “What Can We Do When The World Is Falling Apart? We Can Keep Showing Up,” on mom.me
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
“Coping with distance can be tough. The good news is that there are lots of ways to keep geographical distance from putting real emotional distance between your kids and their relatives.” —Cora Waring, in an article entitled “Wish You Were Here!: How to Keep Kids Close to Distant Relatives;” read more at nymetroparents.com/distant-relatives
MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: MAKE IT A MEANINGFUL THANKSGIVING: Find new traditions to try at nymetroparents.com/thanks. NURTURE GRATITUDE: Learn how to teach kids to be thankful at nymetroparents.com/thankful. ENJOY FALL FOLIAGE: Discover where to go leaf peeping at nymetroparents.com/leaf. NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM: Get tips for applying to NYC high schools at nymetroparents.com/high-school.
SCHOOLS MARKETPLACE
NYMP Q&A
Adolescent Angst
››
By Bethany Braun-Silva
Jess Shatkin, M.D., M.P.H., leads the educational efforts of the NYU Child Study Center and recently wrote Born to Be Wild: Why Teens Take Risks and How We Can Help Keep Them Safe. What is it about adolescents that make them want to take risks? We have known forever that adolescents act at times impulsively or irrationally. The confusing thing is, when you talk to them 1-on-1 or even in a classroom, they’re totally rational and are able to explain their thoughts and feelings. They are able to tell you whether it’s a good idea to do something or not to do something. They don’t make bad decisions because they can’t think them through. Part of it is the brain and all the disconnects from the frontal cortex and the emotional center. Kids feel passion, they can feel love, anger, envy, desire. You can control it when you are in your 20s much better than you can at 15, so there is a lot of unbridled passion. There is also a lot of dopamine in the brain that is higher than it will ever be. The intrigue of sex, the excitement of being on a roller coaster, the excitement of driving 100mph, the excitement of jumping off a roof into the pool—that is more exiting than it will ever be again, and teens are just driven by that thrill. How can parents be cognizant of the risks their children take or may want to take? The way we address risk is knowing our kids, knowing their friends, knowing their friends’ parents, spending time with our kids. Kids who have parents that spend time with them and who are available to them take fewer risks. They talk to their parents about the risks they are thinking of taking, they talk to their parents about their friends who are taking risks, and they see their parents as a reliable source of information and counsel. Parents who aren’t around, who aren’t engaged in the process, who don’t ask their kids about sex, who don’t ask their kids about drugs, who don’t just listen and hang out and let their kids chatter about whatever they want to chatter about, those parents don’t know what’s going on with their kids and their kids don’t come to them. By the time you find marijuana in your kid’s dresser, it’s pretty late, quite honestly. Are there any trends in this behavior and how has risky behavior evolved over the years? Things are pretty much the same in that the three top killers of young adults ages 13-25 are accidents, suicide, and homicide. Suicide has increased, and that has to do with social networking and with all of the access we have to constantly knowing what everyone else is thinking about us or the message they are trying to send about how great they’re doing or how wonderful their life is. You see this very clearly with this FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) thing kids talk about. It is a very real thing, and new imaging studies of the brain show when a kid is left out, they feel pain in the brain in the same areas as when they experience physical pain. If you are left out of a group, your brain feels like you are being burned or hit hard. Kids will do a lot to avoid that physical pain; they will take a lot of risks to be part of the group.
A secure and structured environment where your child enjoys socializing and interacting with other children while learning. Small Classes • Language Arts • Music & Movement Math & Science • Indoor & Outdoor Play Areas Enrichment Programs in Art and Italian Your child will be kindergarten-ready after preschool at A Child’s Dream
Open House:
Thursday • November 9th, 2017 • 10:00am – 12:00pm 10 Mill Rd New Rochelle, NY • 914-633-4332 • amc1125@gmail.com Directors: Tiffany Amaya and Ana Caldararo
Come 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.
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Visit Us at NYMetroParents.com WestchesterParent 11
DIY CORNER Health Experiment
Making Snot! To understand more about what snot is (and to gross out your friends), make some fake snot and then find out why you should never sneeze into your hand.
You will need: Kettle 2 small bowls 3 packets of unflavored gelatin Fork ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) corn (golden) syrup Green food coloring Vaseline Glitter 1. Ask an adult to help you heat water in a kettle until it is very hot, but not quite boiling. Pour half a cup of the almost boiling water into a bowl and sprinkle on the three packets of gelatin. Stir the powder in with a fork and then leave to soften for 5 minutes. 2. Put the corn (golden) syrup into another bowl. 3. Stir the gelatin mix with a fork until all the lumps have gone and then slowly add it to the corn syrup until your mixture looks like snot. Use a fork to stir it, as it will pull out long strands of snot. Add a few drops of green food coloring to make it even more disgusting. This looks like snot because it is made of the same ingredients as snot—protein, sugar, and water. They are different types of protein and sugar, but snot has a very similar chemical make-up.
STEP 1
STEP 4
4. Now wipe a very thin smear of Vaseline onto a door handle that everyone in your family uses a lot. Sprinkle a thin layer of glitter all over it—it should stick to the Vaseline. Don’t tell anyone. 5. After a while get everyone to check their hands to see if there is glitter on them. Become a detective and check other places to find how far the glitter has spread. Imagine that you had cold and had sneezed into your hand and then opened a door. The bacteria and viruses from your snot would have been wiped onto the door handle. The next person who opened the door would have got it on their hands and spread it further and probably caught your cold. This is why you should never sneeze into your hand—unless you are going to wash it straight away!
Excerpted from My First Book of My Body ($14.95) by Susan Akass and Frances Butcher, photography by Terry Benson, with permission of CICO KIdz.
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 5
Allied Call Us First-August Ad_Allied Call Us First-August Ad 8/6/15 1:04 PM
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WestchesterParent 13
15 Questions to Ask a Pediatrician
››
A good pediatrician is an invaluable resource—here’s how to find the best fit for your family’s needs. By Bethany Braun-Silva
A
s soon-to-be parents can imagine, and current parents know, having a trusted pediatrician is monumentally important. When you’re expecting, the checklists of tasks to be completed before baby comes home are already substantial, but nevertheless, it’s important to take the time to vet different pediatricians in order to find the right doctor for your family, location, and needs. And, since your baby will need to be seen by a doctor within the first week of birth, it’s important to find the right fit before baby arrives so you’re comfortable and confident at appointments. If you’re past that stage, there are many reasons why you might be considering switching pediatricians, from the practical concerns such as office hours or location to worries about fit and approach. So whether you’re expecting your first child or looking to switch pediatricians for your kids, we’ve come up with a list of 15 questions to guide you on your journey to finding the right doctor. 1. Is the practice in a convenient location? It’s one thing to strap your week-old baby in a carrier and hop on the subway for a few stops, but it’s quite another to lug a stroller up and down those subway stairs or call a car service to get you to the opposite end of town. A convenient location might not be the 14
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
most important requirement, but it sure does help should your child need an urgent sick visit or if you will be traveling solo or with more than one kid. 2. Is the pediatrician board-certified? If the doctor is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, that means she has passed a specialized exam in pediatrics. Additionally, if the doctor is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics the letters “FAAP” will appear after her name. This means she has met established standards for providing child health care. 3. What’s his child-care ideology? What are his thoughts on breast-feeding? Co-sleeping? Circumcision? These are all important things your pediatrician can help you with. You might also want to find out his philosophies on sleep training, potty training, and discipline. If your thoughts don’t align, this can make for some challenging visits. 4. How long does a typical check-up last? This is something you can get an idea of during a prenatal visit with a pediatrician, should you choose to have one. Does the doctor
take her time? Does she give you an opportunity to ask all of your questions? It is best that you don’t feel rushed during appointments. New parents are especially exhausted and overwhelmed and it’s important they feel at ease at the pediatrician’s office. 5. Is it a group or solo practice? If it’s a solo practice you will be seeing the same pediatrician each time you visit, although you should ask who covers for him while he’s away. If it’s a group practice you might be scheduled with different pediatricians or nurse practitioners each time you are there. Consider what’s important to you: seeing the same pediatrician every time, or the accessibility that can come from multiple doctors on staff. 6. Does the pediatrician have a subspecialty? Certain pediatricians have subspecialties, such as advanced training in allergies, behavioral issues, endocrinology, or psychiatry. This might be something to consider if there are pre-existing conditions that run in your family. 7. What is the doctor’s stance on vaccinations? While the topic of vaccinations can be a bit touchy, you’ll want to get clear before you commit on what the doctor’s opinion is regarding the timing of vaccinations. Some practices offer a gradual vaccination schedule, if that’s something you might be interested in, while others will only stick to the standard schedule. 8. Can you get a same-day sick visit? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve called my son’s pediatrician needing an appointment for that same day. I have never been denied, and it has been a source of great relief for me and my family. Not all doctors offer this service, so if urgency is important to you, make sure this is an option. 9. Does the office offer evening or weekend hours? If you’re a working parent, it will be difficult to get your child to well visits, never mind sick ones, during regular working hours. Extended and weekend hours can be a lifesaver for some parents. 10. What’s the wait time? You’ll probably experience some wait time in any doctor’s office, but if the office is consistently behind schedule that can be a real issue. Waiting rooms are notoriously germy and full of not-sohappy-kids. Visit prospective offices and check out the wait time for yourself, or ask a parent who’s there. There’s nothing worse then a room full of crying kids waiting to get shots.
13. What is the practice’s emergency protocol and hospital affiliation? If your child has a serious accident or allergic reaction, you will need to know your pediatrician’s protocol for handling these emergencies. Does she make house calls? Will he visit children if they end up in the ER? If the practice has a hospital affiliation, find out about its reputation and if it’s close to where you live. Ask how the hospital works in conjunction with the pediatrician’s office and if it allows parents to stay in the room overnight with admitted children. Hopefully this will be something you never have to experience, but it’s good information to have nonetheless. 14. Does the practice accept your insurance? Find out what plans the office accepts and whether your plan is one of them. Also, it’s a good idea to have some knowledge of all the plans they accept in case your insurance changes. If the practice does not accept your insurance, find out if it offers payment plans or a sliding scale for certain services. 15. What is your gut feeling? This is a question for yourself, not the pediatrician, but an important one nonetheless. This doctor will be a very important part of your child’s life for years to come. Ultimately you want to find someone who you trust and feel comfortable with. After all, he will be a key player in your child’s health and development.
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11. How does the office look? Is the place clean? Are there toys and books for your child to play with? Because you might spend at least a few minutes waiting to be seen, it’s best to have an office that is appealing to kids. Some offices even provide patients with separate waiting rooms for sick and well kids—something to consider.
Can You Handle The Thrilling Excitement?
12. Can you call with questions? Is there a number to call if you have a simple question regarding your child’s health? Sometimes issues are small enough they don’t warrant a trip to the office. You want to make sure your office has a number you can call that will connect you to a doctor, nurse, or nurse practitioner on staff. This is also an important after-hours feature as well.
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Courtesy the Klein family
Courtesy the Ladybug Foundation Hannah Taylor started The Ladybug Foundation when she was 8.
Jake and Max Klein, founders of Kids That Do Good, pose at a school event.
Kids Making a Difference
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These young people were so dedicated to improving the world they launched their own nonprofit organizations. Here’s how they did it—and how your child can, too. By Julia Hyman
W
hen Hannah Taylor was 5, she saw a man searching through a dumpster on the street. She was sad, angry, and kept asking herself, Why? For the next year, that man seemed to be all she could think about. He inspired her to learn everything she could about homelessness. After educating herself, Taylor, who grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, took action to help make sure no one else would have to live like that man did. With her parents’ help, at age 8 she founded the Ladybug Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raises money for and awareness about poverty and homelessness. Her motto: “Share a little of what you have and care about each other always.” “I’ve always lived an incredibly fortunate life,” Taylor, now 21, says. “Always had a bed to sleep in, food to eat, and love and care. I didn’t realize that anybody in Canada had to live a homeless life. It hit me right in the gut. I think that everyone has a moment like that in life. A striking realization that you just cannot let go and forget about. For me, this was it.” Starting a nonprofit organization is difficult to do at any age, involving a lot of planning and researching, not to mention inevitable challenges implementing even the best-crafted plans. To become a registered nonprofit in the United States, founders need to do their homework about the legal requirements. They’ll need to create a mission statement and business plan, establish an executive board, file for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, and more. The process can take multiple years and hit unexpected snags at any point—and that’s aside from the difficulties any individual
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
or group faces in tackling massive problems such as poverty or climate change. We spoke to several teens and young adults who have successfully navigated these challenges and created their own nonprofit organizations that are still thriving today. They told us how they did it and offered advice for how other kids can follow in their footsteps and make a lasting difference of their own by starting their own nonprofit groups. Since starting her organization, Taylor has spoken about its work at conferences, schools, and to whoever would listen. Because of her age, her efforts weren’t always successful, and she says many people challenged or doubted her along the way. Taylor recalls a difficult moment when she spoke at a conference and a man stood up and asked, “Do you think that is going to work?” She responded, “Well it’s a good place to start”—and he came back with, “It will work when pigs fly.” A few months later, she received a letter in the mail from that same man from the conference. He wrote that every day he would pass someone asking for change on the street. “After learning about Ladybug, a voice in his head would tell him to stop and ask how he is,” Taylor says. He ended up having an hour-long conversation with the man asking for change. His views on that man and those living in poverty changed as a result. “Along with the letter came a cast-iron pig with wings,” Taylor says. “It’s a challenge that you end up learning from. The only way to overcome it is to keep working and hope that you change
someone’s mind and hope that they show care and love in another way.” When starting a nonprofit, there always will be challenges and struggles along the way, but there are also going to be moments when the founders realize their work is changing lives. For Taylor, that moment happened when she was 10. She was on a tour of a homeless shelter so she could understand more about the people who use it. Kids from the shelter would join in on the tour and play with Taylor. “There was one girl, about 15 years old, who was quiet and hung back the whole time,” says Taylor. “Right when I was about to leave, she snuck through a crowd of people and hugged me. She had tears in her eyes and said, ‘Before today, I thought nobody loved me, and now I know you do.’” For Taylor, it’s essential to see past the challenges and remain focused on the mission, the purpose for which a young person is starting a nonprofit in the first place. “If things get hard or overwhelming or you are facing self-doubt, just remember your job as a change-making leader, and that is to create hope in other people,” Taylor says.
Kids That Do Good
Max and Jake Klein, 15-year-old twin brothers from Edgewater, NJ, have always loved helping those in need. They spend their birthdays raising money for charities instead of receiving presents. However, every time they wanted to volunteer, they were turned down because of their age. They didn’t want other kids to feel the same way they did, so they decided to do something about it. When they were 12 years old, Jake and Max founded the nonprofit organization Kids That Do Good. It’s an online platform that helps children of all ages find charities where they are able to volunteer. The website allows you to filter your search by age, location, religious affiliation, and cause. There is also a “Donate” option for people to help support their organization. “When people donate money, we hold it in our account until the end of the month and then donate that money directly to the Charity of the Month,” Jake says. Max and Jake insist they are just normal kids. The boys go to camp, participate in specialized clubs, and attend a business academy, all while still maintaining their organization. “Our board of advisors helps us make sure organizations we put up on our website are true charities, they help us search things, and they look at information from different angles than we do,” Max says. The Kleins started out by raising funds for organizations in their town that needed help, but Kids That Do Good has now grown to encompass charities nationwide. In 2015, a fire in Avalon, NJ, displaced 200 local families. Right away, Max and Jake decided to create a website to raise funds for those families. “Everyone responded really quickly and we had such a large outcome that we brought in over $200,000 that we divided up and gave to the families that were affected by the fire,” Jake says. The boys hope to keep Kids That Do Good up and running for a long time. When they move on to college, they hope to influence other young adults to do good as well. “We want kids to learn that giving back should be a part of everyday life, not just something that they do on a yearly basis when their parents tell them to,” Jake says. “For anyone that is starting their own website or organization, keep going at it and never give up,” he advises. “Because it could end up being a big thing and you should never give up on your dreams.” continued on next page ››
ADVICE ON STARTING A NONPROFIT— FROM KIDS WHO’VE DONE IT Hannah Taylor, the LadyBug Foundation If you are a young person who is interested in making a difference, you have to try a bunch of new things. Join organizations that people around you think are amazing or that you learn about in class. Often times, trying new things has to happen outside of your comfort zone. Once you find that thing, learn as much about it as you can. People talk about how knowledge is power, but I think that knowledge is only powerful when you turn that knowledge into understanding. I think the next step is that yes, one person can make a difference, but together we can make an even bigger difference. Jake and Max Klein, Kids That Do Good If you find something you care about, you will be excited to do it. You will be looking forward to it, and you will also need to ask your parents to help with some of it. Kids aren’t going to be the ones to contact the IRS to become a 501(c)(3) organization, so that will have to be put up on the parents’ end. Instead of just having a lot of kids involved, you should also have grown-ups so you are diversifying the age groups you have. Make sure you have people that will help you in starting your charity because we have had people help search things, build our website, and more. Always get opinions so you have something else to refer to. Cory Nichols, C the Difference: Cory Cares The one thing I’d say to all kids is that there is no idea too small, and you should go for anything you believe in. That was my mindset at 12 and I think it would be totally different if I did it now than at 12. You can’t really see the obstacles or what can go wrong. You just see the possibilities and that is what brought me to where I am now. You don’t know how good it feels to give back until you do it and giving makes yourself feel so much better. I know how I feel once I walk out of the food pantry, to see the shelves go from empty to notso-empty. I’ll never be able to fill up a pantry by myself, but just seeing the impact that you do make, makes you feel so good about yourself. Teagan Stedman, Shred Kids’ Cancer It can be difficult to get your own community involved with your efforts, but sometimes there is a ton of support through your events and by getting your friends to volunteer. There is a lot of variability as to how readily people will support your cause, but I think the biggest thing is to be persistent and to be sort of loud in trying to get your community on board. Try to plan very well. So if you’re trying to hold a fundraising event, make sure you market a lot. That can be a difficult thing to learn, making sure you know how many people you can get to come to your event, try to go around and get sponsorships and things like that. Social media is definitely the most powerful tool for getting the word out. You have to really try and keep your expenses low. We’ve had events that weren’t that successful, even just with the fundraising aspect. Even though you might be successful in engaging people and raising awareness, be aware because the expenses really hinder your efforts a lot. Venues and services from private people are really hard to control, which is one of the bigger challenges in fundraising. WestchesterParent 17
Courtesy Cory Nichols
Courtesy Shred Kids Cancer
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Oceanside teen Cory Nichols with some of the food that will go toward stocking local food pantries
A Bar Mitzvah Project Expands
After watching the documentary Hard Times: Lost on Long Island, Cory Nichols, then age 12, didn’t like knowing there were kids at school who rely on food pantries for their meals. The Oceanside resident decided to devote his bar mitzvah project to raising funds to stock the local food pantry for an entire year. That’s when C the Difference: Cory Cares was born. Today, Cory is 17 and C the Difference: Cory Cares, is a registered nonprofit organization. It has a junior advisory board made up of kids ages 12-18. The organization “shops and stocks,” Cory says. “We shop for food in the supermarket and then we stock the pantry shelves with food.” C the Difference: Cory Cares usually stocks five food pantries per month. It holds events to raise funds, such as Halloween for the Hungry, during which volunteers ask people to donate food to pantries that will be picked up at a later date. Cory says he loves to hang out with friends, play sports, and act in shows. It wasn’t easy for him to start his organization. He had to plan, prepare, and ask for help. “I had my idea and what I wanted to do. I think it all started because I asked for help,” he says. “You need to have your strength in terms of standing by what you believe in and knowing what you want to do, but you also need to be ready to ask someone to help you get to where you want to go.” Raising money to buy food and then stocking food pantries takes dedication and makes a difference, but actually seeing where the food goes and who benefits from it drives home to Cory the importance of the work his organization does. “In the five years I have been doing this, I never really saw where and to who the food was going to,” he says. “But then when I was volunteering, I actually watched the people who were with me put food together into the bags for the people who were walking in and out to receive them. ...Just seeing where everything that I have done is going and seeing that it is going to the right place and making a 18
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Teagan Stedman, second from left, presents a check from his nonprofit, Shred Kids Cancer, to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
difference is one of the biggest eye openers for what I started.” You never know who is going to be there to help you, Cory says. The willingness of the people who wanted to help surprised him. “There is always that worry that I’m not going to raise enough money, that no one is going to volunteer, but then as soon as I gave people the opportunity to, they were so helpful,” he says.
Kids Fighting Kids’ Cancer
When Teagan Stedman was 8, his friend Alex Berson was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Instead of just saying “get well soon,” Teagan searched for things he could do to support the fight against pediatric cancer. Not many organizations would allow an 8-year-old to volunteer in hospitals, so he did the only thing that made sense to him—he started his own. Teagan and Alex both loved music, so what better way to show support than by raising money through music? He decided to plan a concert, a battle of the bands, with different children performing. He says he wanted to literally “shred kids’ cancer,” which is how he came up with the name of his nonprofit organization. Shred Kids’ Cancer has now been around for almost nine years. It continues to hold battle of the bands and other events to raise money and awareness. Originally from California, Teagan, now 17, moved to Avon, CT, and has continued running his organization there. One of the biggest challenges for him was his age. To get sponsorships and be taken seriously was a struggle because he was so young when he started. “Trying to become a nonprofit was difficult, especially when you have so little knowledge of that world,” he says, adding that the Internet was the biggest help in figuring it out. Teagan loves to play the guitar, spend time with his family, and work in the lab on his research project. He spent his summer working on drug delivery and cancer research. He says he realized
even the smallest things you do can make a difference when Children’s Hospital UCLA was granted a clinical trial. Noah C. Federman, M.D., a doctor at the hospital, was treating one of the “shredheads,” as the children helped by Shred Kids’ Cancer have come to be known. “Dr. Federman told me that the funding we gave was really crucial to their clinical trial because it was the funds that got the ball rolling on their progress, and eventually got them to their million-dollar grant that pushed the clinical trial through,” Teagan says. “That was something that really showed me how that what we were doing was important and actually making some sort of a dent.” Shred Kids’ Cancer is also working to help kids launch their own start-ups or clubs that will be connected to and partner with the larger organization. Its leaders are setting up a program to give kids guidance so they can be more equipped to start their own organizations. “We really want to be a resource to help guide kids through this process,” Teagan says. “We want kids to set up their own events, awareness campaigns, or clubs at school, or anywhere to benefit pediatric cancer research.” Julia Hyman, a former NYMetroParents editorial intern, is in her senior year at Pennsylvania State University.
HOW TO START A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION Do your research. There can be a lot of challenges that come with starting a nonprofit organization, so make sure you create a plan and identify everything you need to about your specific organization. Build a solid foundation. You need to build a structure for your organization. Think about who is going to be involved, what you need to do, when you should start, etc. Incorporation and state forms. Each state has different laws and protocols for starting a nonprofit, so be sure to research your particular state and ask the appropriate agencies if you have questions. Filing for federal tax-exempt status. Does your organization have the appropriate legal paperwork? To be considered for exemption, the IRS must recognize you as a trust, a corporation, or as an association. Ongoing compliance. In some states, local governments require you to complete additional filings to be recognized as tax-exempt. Make sure you check with your local legal counsel to ensure you have all of the initial filing requirements. How to Incorporate a Nonprofit • Choose a name for your organization, but make sure to check your state’s laws for naming a nonprofit. • Create a board of directors, along with operating rules. • Decide on a legal structure—is your organization going to be a trust, corporation, or association? • Hand in your incorporation paperwork—you must file all the proper paperwork and pay a small filing fee to your state. • Apply for tax-exempt status—the IRS provides guidance and instructions on how to apply for this status. • Get necessary licenses and permits—did you get all of the necessary licenses and permits that you need to comply with federal, state, and local rules?
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WHERE-TO GUIDE
nymetroparents.com/where-to
Volunteer with Your Kids
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Research by Jordan Laird
Gear up to give back with our guide to volunteering with your kids! Projects big and small require lots of hands, and there are tons of local organizations that rely on the selflessness of volunteers to make sure these resources continue to give back to the Westchester community. Plus, volunteering with your kids is a great way to teach important, lifelong values of giving to others, and helps little ones realize the impact that one person can have on the entire world. Please call ahead to confirm volunteer requirements and details before heading out to serve others!
Kids Helping Kids
Go Green
The Sarah Lawrence College Center for the Urban River at Beczak helps children and adults explore and appreciate the natural wonders of the Hudson River. Parents and kids ages 14 and older can help with indoor activities; children must be 16 and older for outdoor activities. Volunteers can help with family programs such as river seining or crafts; park maintenance such as cleaning up the marsh, fixing fences, collecting trash, or gardening; or help in the aquarium. High school students can earn community service hours and complete senior-year internship requirements. One-time volunteer opportunities are also available, as well as college internships. Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, and Saturday, 9am-5pm, May to October. Contact Jason Muller, outreach coordinator, at 914-377-1900 x16. 35 Alexander St., Yonkers. centerfortheurbanriver.org. Greenburgh Nature Center is a 33acre nature preserve with trails, a pond, gardens, indoor exhibits, and an animal museum. On Earth Day (April 22), parents and kids ages 6 and older can help with grounds work in the garden, clean up trails, or help with planting from 1-3:30pm. The nature center relies on 20
the help of dedicated adult and student volunteers for many aspects of the center’s operations, including animal husbandry, trail maintenance, gardening, assistance at special events, and interaction with visitors. Volunteer opportunities are offered for kids ages 14 and older and all skill levels throughout the year. Contact Casey Keefe and Sara Spoden, naturalist educators in volunteer programming, at volunteer@ greenburghnaturecenter.org to register and for more information. 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale. greenburghnaturecenter.org. The Weinberg Nature Center is a wildlife sanctuary consisting of a meadow, fruit orchard, woodlots, swamp, nature trails, and a Lenape Indian Village. Parents and kids ages 10 and older can volunteer to garden, plant wildflowers, or care for the center’s animals. Or, older teens and adults can help with summer camp, programming, marketing and social networking, landscaping, and trail maintenance. Open Monday, 11am-5pm; Tuesday, 10am-3pm; Wednesday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 10am-3pm; and Friday, 10am-5pm. Contact Cindy Polera at 914-722-1289, or email cpolera@ scarsdale.com 455 Mamaroneck Road, Scarsdale. weinbergnaturecenter.org.
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Blythedale Children’s Hospital is dedicated to the diagnosis, care, and treatment of children with complex medical and rehabilitative needs. There are many volunteer opportunities for teenagers, families, and parent-child teams. Volunteers must be 16 or older. Children ages 14 and older can do clerical work, but children must be 16 in order to work directly with patients. Volunteer opportunities are available in administration; the early childhood and family resource centers; occupational, physical, and speech therapies; story and teen times; therapeutic recreation; and welcome desk. Do a one-time craft activity with children, help with events, or create your own project to share with children. Some project ideas include putting together activity or busy boxes for the children; preparing welcome baskets for new patients; gathering new children’s clothing; gathering books, DVDs, video games, or new toys (no stuffed toys); preparing an entertainment, game, or activity to share with the children. New or gently used books can also be donated. Download an application from the website and send to Jabeen Dinzey, director of volunteer services, at jdinzey@blythedale.org. 914-831-2428. 95 Bradhurst Ave., Valhalla. blythedale.org. Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Hudson Valley grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich their lives with hope, strength, and joy. The Kids For Wish Kids program allows children to help those closest to them: classmates or other kids in the community. Local children do it all—organize, raise funds, and manage their own programs with support from parents and/or teacher advisers. This hands-on experience shows children how their commitment and generosity can impact another child’s life and help grant a wish. For more information, visit hudson.wish.org/kids, or contact community outreach manager Hilary Ducker at 914-246-8680. For other volunteer opportunities, contact Abraham Almanza, director of volunteers, training, and digital engagement, at 914-478-9503
or aalmanza@hudson.wish.org. hudson.wish.org. The Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital is an advanced care pediatric hospital at Westchester Medical Center. Parents and teens 16 and older can volunteer to read to the young patients and help parents staying with their sick children with their laundry. In the main hospital, volunteers can do clerical work, meet and greet in the waiting rooms, help with the magazine cart, or work at the front desk. Note: It takes two to three weeks to process volunteer paperwork and teenagers must participate in the summer volunteer program before participating throughout the school year. Contact volunteer coordinator Tara Marquis at 914-493-7850. 100 Woods Road, Valhalla. westchestermedicalcenter.com.
Support a Senior
At Bethel Nursing and Rehabilitation facilities in Croton-on-Hudson and Ossining, parents and teens 16 and older can help seniors with recreational activities, wheelchair transport, outings and field trips, evening parties, letter writing, life review, nail spas, shopping trips, resident and guest chef cooking classes, decorating and gift-wrapping for holidays, and gardening. You can also help in the gift shop, play music, read to residents, help with table games and Bingo, and help with the fundraising walk. Contact director of therapeutic recreation and volunteers Susan Morris at 914739-6700 x1213. 67 Springvale Road, Croton-on-Hudson; 17 Narragansett Ave., Ossining. bethelwell.org. The Grove at Valhalla Rehabilitation and Nursing Center provides long term care and short term rehab for seniors. Parents and kids 14 or older can volunteer to help
with board games, computers, painting and crafts, sharing stories, performing music, and visiting 1-on-1. Parents must accompany children younger than 16. Hebrew Hospital’s volunteer team has a comprehensive base of therapeutic recreation activities and an active group of residents who participate daily, and your help is needed to keep activities helpful, engaging, and fun. Contact Laura Meza, director of therapeutic recreation and volunteer services, at lmeza@ thegroverehab.com or 914681-8437. 61 Grasslands Road, Valhalla. thegroverehab.com. Meals-on-Wheels of White Plains provides “more than a meal” to the housebound, seniors, and others in need by delivering food, providing a bit of warmth and compassion, and serving as a daily check on our elderly neighbors. Parents and children can assist by delivering meals to frail, elderly, and lonely housebound individuals. Deliveries are made Monday-Saturday, 11:15am-12:45pm. To volunteer, call 914-946-6878. For more information, visit mowwp.org. 311 North St., Suite G5, White Plains. At St. Cabrini Nursing Home in Dobbs Ferry, parents and students ages 12 and older can help with transport, do simple crafts with residents, or entertain residents by performing music. Cabrini Eldercare volunteers are special people, from assisting with various recreational programs to helping with clerical administrative tasks. Whether it is once a week or once a month, Cabrini volunteers give their time to benefit the nursing home, adult day health center, home care offices, and immigrant services programs. Call 914693-6800 x592 or email info-scnh@cabrini-eldercare.org. 115 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry. cabrini-eldercare.org/about-us/ volunteer.
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FOOD & NUTRITION
From left: What’s-in-Season Fruit Crumble, Toffee Apple Tarts, and Mini Fruit Pies
Thanksgiving Desserts Kids Can Help Make ››
Amanda Grant shares pie, crumble, and tart recipes from ‘Kids in the Kitchen’ that are perfect for children to help bake.
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e love when our kids help us out in the kitchen, and what better time to get them involved than preparing the Thanksgiving feast? While having them underfoot on the big day might not be the best option, try baking Thanksgiving dessert with them the day before, when you’re not stressed about getting the turkey in the oven on time and preparing a dozen side dishes. What we love about these recipes from Kids in the Kitchen by Amanda Grant is they are geared toward different age groups and help each specific age group develop important cooking skills, which are noted within each recipe. Happy cooking!
Mini Fruit Pies (ages 3-5)
Ready-made puff pastry dough is just right for these mini fruit pies. When you are rolling pastry, it is much easier to roll one small piece at a time instead of rolling one large piece, which is why I have broken the pastry into four pieces. These pastries taste delicious and are good for packed lunches, at snack time, or for desserts. If you choose to use big dried fruits like mango or apricots, you will need to use scissors to cut them into small pieces first. To make 16 mini pies you need: Ingredients: Small piece of butter, about the size of 2 pieces of chocolate, melted (ask an adult or older child to do this), plus a little extra 20 tablespoons (11/3 cups) dried fruits 1 teaspoon mixed spice 22
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
12½ oz. puff pastry dough A little flour for sprinkling A little demerara sugar for sprinkling Equipment: scissors, parchment paper, baking tray, mixing bowl, spoon, rolling pin, 2 pennies, round cutter about 2¼ inches across, table knife, pastry brush Skills: mixing, rolling pastry, cutting circles, brushing, using oven 1. Turn the oven on to 350°F. Cut a piece of parchment paper big enough to cover the baking tray. Put the melted butter, dried fruits, and spice in a mixing bowl and mix with a spoon. 2. Break the pastry in half, then break each piece in half to make 4 pieces. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface. Flatten one piece of dough with a rolling pin until it is about the same thickness as 2 stacked pennies. 3. Take the cutter and, starting at the edge of the dough, push it down to cut out circles. Keep going until you have used up all of that dough. Roll out another piece of dough and cut out circles. Repeat with the rest of the dough. Using a teaspoon, spoon a little fruit mixture onto the middle of each circle. Bring the edges of the circle up together to seal the mixture inside. There should be no gaps in the pastry! 4. Turn the parcels over and flatten slightly with your hand. Using a table knife, carefully cut two or three short slits in the top of each pastry—this will let the steam escape when the pastries are baking.
5. Put them on the baking tray. Dip a pastry brush in a little melted butter and brush over all the pies. Sprinkle with sugar. Ask an adult to help you put the tray in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. They should look golden!
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What’s-in-Season Fruit Crumble (ages 5-7)
One of the first things my mom taught me to make was a crumble. It’s a great way to learn how to rub butter into flour. Once you know how to do this you can have a go at making pastry. You can sprinkle this crumble mix on top of so many different fruits. Try to choose fruit that is in season—if you are not sure what that is, ask the person working in the produce section of the supermarket or go to a local famer’s market. Berries are easy to use as you don’t need to chop them first.
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For 4-6 people you need: Fruit filling: Seasonal fruit e.g. 15 plums or about 1 lb. 4 oz. fresh or frozen berries or about 12 peaches or nectarines 4 tablespoons orange juice 3 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 level tablespoon plain / all-purpose flour Crumble topping: 1 cup, plus 2 tablespoons plain / all-purpose flour 1 cup, plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces 2 handfuls oats (or muesli if you prefer) 4 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground mixed spice / apple pie spice or ground cinnamon
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Equipment: cutting board, small paring knife, spoon, 2 small or 1 large ovenproof dish Skills: rubbing butter into flour, cutting with knife, mixing with spoon, sprinkling topping 1. Turn the oven on to 350°F. To make the fruit filling, use the bridge-cutting technique to cut the plums in half: on a chopping board, make a “bridge” with a thumb and finger of one hand and hold the plum. Hold a small paring knife in your other hand and put the blade under the bridge, then cut downwards firmly. Move the plums around as you cut to avoid cutting through the stone. Take out the stones. 2. Put the plums into two small or one large ovenproof dish. Pour the orange juice over the plums, add the sugar and flour, and mix with a spoon or your hands. 3. To make the crumble topping, put the flour into a bowl, add the butter and rub the butter into the flour with your fingers until it looks like fine breadcrumbs. This can take a few minutes. Add the oats, sugar, and spice and mix with your fingers again. 4. Spoon the mixture over the top of the plums. Ask an adult to help you put the dishes into the oven using oven mitts. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crumble topping is crisp, the plums are soft, and the fruit juices are bubbling up around the edges.
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Toffee Apple Tarts (ages 7-11)
These tarts are so enjoyable to make that the boys who came over to my house to make them for this book asked to make some more in between taking the photos. Once you know how to make pastry dough, you can make so many different pies, cheese straws, small tarts, big tarts, and lots more. To make 24 little tarts you need: Sweet pastry / pie crust dough: 1 stick unsalted butter, chilled 1¾ cups plain / all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon sugar 1 egg yolk 1-2 tablespoons cold water Filling: 6-8 eating apples 12 toffee sweets / candies Equipment: table knife, mixing bowl, clingfilm / plastic wrap, parchment paper, two 12-hole cupcake tins / pans, rolling pin, round cutter about 3 inches across, cutting board, oven mitts Skills: cutting, rubbing butter into flour, lining tart tins / pans, sharing fillings, bashing with rolling pins, using oven
Green Chimneys School
1. Use a table knife to cut the butter into small pieces and put into a mixing bowl with the flour. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingers until it looks like fine breadcrumbs. This can take a few minutes. 2. Add the sugar, egg yolk, and water and stir the mixture together with the table knife until it comes together and you can form a ball with your hands. Wrap the pastry in a piece of clingfilm / plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for 30 minutes this will make it easier to roll out. 3. Turn the oven on to 350°F. Using a scrap of parchment paper, rub a little butter inside the holes in the cupcake tins / pans. Break the pastry into four pieces. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface, then roll out one piece at a time. Dip the cutter in flour, then cut out 24 circles. Gently press the circles into the holes of the pans. 4. Use the table knife and a cutting board to cut the apples in small pieces, avoiding the core in the middle. Divide the pieces between the pastry cases / dough crusts. 5. Put the toffees on a solid work surface and gently bash with the rolling pin to break into pieces. Scatter the pieces evenly over the apples. Using oven mitts, put the pans in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the toffee has melted and the apples are cooked.
Excerpted from Kids in the Kitchen ($19.95) by Amanda Grant, with photography by Susan Bell, with permission of Ryland Peters & Small. greenchimneys.org
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Where Your Child Comes First
Schedule your annual physical!
• Comprehensive Care from Birth to Age 21 • Spacious child-friendly waiting area • Extended evening & weekend office hours • State of the Art Pediatric Office • Most Insurances Accepted • Convenient on-site parking
Susan Meisler, M.D. • Hilary Smith, M.D. Lisa Mandelker, D.O. • Debra Etelson, M.D. 145 Huguenot St., Suite 200 New Rochelle, NY www.pasw4kids.com • 914.235.1400 WestchesterParent 25
OUTINGS: Long Island City, Queens
nymetroparents.com/outings
5 Reasons We Love Long Island City, Queens
Culture, street art, and scenic views abound across the East River. ›› By Sabrina Sooknanan 2
Courtesy RESOBOX
3
Sabrina Sooknanan
Courtesy Chop Em Down Films/Zane Meyer
1
1 Top To Bottom is a unique public mural project by talented street artists on a three-story building south of the Queensboro Bridge in Long Island City. 2 The Pepsi-Cola sign, a relic from a past bottling facility, shines bright near Center Boulevard and 46th Avenue, overlooking Gantry Park. 3 Children participate in the Amigurumi workshop at RESOBOX, in which they make stuffed crocheted animals.
L
ocated across the East River from Manhattan in the borough of Queens, Long Island City is a fun place to explore with the family. The neighborhood is known for its increasingly diverse community, thriving public art projects, and kid-friendly piers and skating rinks.
overlooking Gantry Park: the Pepsi-Cola sign, which once rested on top of the soda company’s bottling facility. In 2001, the Pepsi plant was torn down and today you can see the sign light up in red in front of a high-rise apartment building near Center Boulevard and 46th Avenue.
Different Cultures
Art Programs at The Noguchi Museum
Street Art History
Ice-Skating Year-Round
While Queens consists of the most culturally diverse demographic among the boroughs, Long Island City exemplifies culture diversity in its people and in its food. Explore Japanese culture at RESOBOX, an all-in-one art gallery, café, and activity center that offers cultural classes in Japanese cooking, manga drawing, Japanese ink painting, and more. A vibrant restaurant scene— including Mexican hotspot Casa Enrique—further represents LIC’s diverse cultures. Long Island City was once home to the 200,000-square-foot graffiti mecca 5 Pointz NYC, an aerosol art museum that was whitewashed in November 2013 and demolished a year later. Fortunately street art murals were revived in 2015 by Arts Org NYC with Top To Bottom, a public mural project that showcases a vibrant union of colors and shapes by talented street artists on a three-story building south of the Queensboro Bridge in LIC.
Scenic Views
Take in an amazing view of the New York City skyline by visiting Gantry Plaza State Park. Located in Hunter’s Point, LIC, this waterfront park offers a stunning panoramic view and peaceful piers. And we can’t forget about a famous city landmark
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
On the first Sunday of every month The Noguchi Museum offers Open Studio for families with children ages 2-11. Led by museum educators, families can enjoy the galleries and make art based on their experiences. Arts for Tots is offered on select Saturdays and Sundays so families with children ages 2-4 can view the galleries while exploring art materials. The Noguchi’s collection includes sculptures, drawings, models, and designs. Enjoy free admission the first Friday of every month. City Ice Pavilion offers public ice-skating sessions on select weekdays and weekends. It offers holiday camps, group lessons, and youth hockey. You can also check out Long Island City’s ICE, which offers a wide range of opportunities, from elite personalized training to the Future Islanders Program, eight introductory hockey-training sessions for children ages 5-8 led by former New York Islanders Arron Asham and Radek Martinek.
Want to Go?
Directions: Approximately a 1-hour Metro-North and subway ride from White Plains For more information: nymetroparents.com/lic
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WestchesterParent 27
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www.areadingmother.com Are you concerned about your child’s reading progress? Want to help your child at home with reading and writing? I offer these researched-based practices to help you and your child: • Literacy intervention for children ages 4-12 • Educational evaluations • Parent coaching I am a reading clinician, a nationally recognized author and researcher and a professor of childhood education with years of experience.
Spectacular vintage clothing and costumes for rent Jewelry
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For great holiday and hostess gifts visit our Christmas Emporium Opening November 15th
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4 Martine Ave. White Plains, NY | 914-358-1460 www.bethelnr.org 28
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
914.235.2700
Ideas When You Need Them:
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Turn the page for details on Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (No. 8 on our list).
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nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: JAMIE MCGILLIAN calendared@davlermedia.com
NOVEMBER CALENDAR
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Editor’s Hot Tickets
35
Must-Sees in NYC
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We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Animal Lovers, Crafty Kids
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Holiday Fun
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Show Time!, Smarty Pants
The Great Outdoors, Once Upon a Time, Special Needs, Movers & Shakers
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EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS
Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the nine events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!
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Full Moon Wolf Walk
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Nobuntu
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 3, 6pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Guests will enjoy seasonal treats, sitting outside by the fire pit, and the symphony of howls from the wolves that call the WCC home. Learn about the history of wolves in the United States, their importance to a healthy ecosystem, and the efforts to save them for future generations. Registration required. WHY WE LOVE IT: This is how to remember the fall season. WANT TO GO? $20. 914-400-5551. nywolf.org.
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 18, 8pm WHERE: Academic Arts Theatre, Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla AGES: All WHAT: This captivating, all-female a cappella ensemble from Zimbabwe tours America for the first time. Enjoy this mesmerizing choral concert of epic proportions and exuberant energy. WHY WE LOVE IT: This is a unique and memorable performance. WANT TO GO? $24; $18 for children younger than 13. 914-606-6567. sunywcc.edu/smartarts.
Family Art Project: Autumn Color Papermaking
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 18, 8:30-11am WHERE: Green Chimneys Clearpool Campus, 33 Clearpool Road, Carmel AGES: All WHAT: Join the first ever “Conquer the Forest” event and run through the open fields and forest trails of Green Chimneys’ scenic Clearpool Campus. The day includes a 5-mile trail run across diverse terrain, 1-mile fun run for kids and families, music, food, and activities for everyone. WHY WE LOVE IT: Enjoy this first-time event. WANT TO GO? $35 trail run; $15 kids fun run. 845-279-2995. greenchimneys.org/trailrun.
WHEN: Nov. 4-5, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Join visiting artist and papermaking expert Randy Brozen to create richly colored paper using red, orange, and yellow pulp. Use a simple process to fashion your handmade paper into a leaf shape, or add a found leaf for fancy decoration. WHY WE LOVE IT: If you love fall colors, this is a beautiful activity. WANT TO GO? $6; $3 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Conquer the Forest Trail Run
4
DECEMBER 5 & 6
Get weekend activities delivered to you!
nymetroparents.com/register ››
5
‘Biscuit’
WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 19, 11am and 1:30pm WHERE: Emelin Theater, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck AGES: All WHAT: A fun-filled, heart-warming musical about a girl and her puppy, based on the best-selling series of books. WHY WE LOVE IT: Everyone loves the Biscuit books, now watch the story come alive on the stage! WANT TO GO? $15. 914-698-3045. emelin.org.
© 2017 Spin Master PAW Productions Inc. All Rights Reserved. 73773 8/17
Holiday Kick Off
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 24, 12-5pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Learn how to paint a wintry landscape, enjoy face painting with Junior Docents from 1-4pm, storytelling at 1:30pm, 2pm, and 3:30pm, and a sing-along at 4pm. WHY WE LOVE IT: Thanksgiving may be over, but the fun continues! WANT TO GO? $6; $3 children. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.
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NOV. 25, 1PM & 4PM
JAN. 13, 7PM
‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ Live on Stage
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 25, 1pm WHERE: Palace Theatre Stamford, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, CT AGES: All WHAT: The classic animated television special comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation featuring all of your favorite characters. WHY WE LOVE IT: Your child will flip for Charlie Brown! WANT TO GO? $22-$37. 203-325-4466. palacestamford.org.
Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
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WHEN: Through Nov. 25: See website for times WHERE: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S. Riverside Ave., Croton-on-Hudson AGES: All WHAT: Don’t miss your chance to meander through a historic, 18th-century riverside landscape and discover a breathtaking display all made of jack-o’-lanterns. WHY WE LOVE IT: A truly spooktacular event for fall. WANT TO GO? $20; $16 children ages 3-17; Friday-Saturday: $25; $20 children ages 3-17. 914-631-8200. hudsonvalley.org.
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‘Sherlock Holmes: The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle’
WHEN: Nov. 15-Dec. 8, 7:30pm WHERE: Lyndhurst Mansion, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: It’s Christmas at 221B Baker Street and you’re following Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson on a trip through Victorian London on the trail of a classic mystery. Together with the famous detectives, explore the mansion room by room, as you are drawn deeper into the secrets of the Blue Carbuncle. WHY WE LOVE IT: School-age children will find this to be loads of fun. WANT TO GO? $40; $35 seniors and for children 16 and younger. 914-631-4481. lyndhurst.org. ››
WestchesterParent 31
WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE
Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. Young Family Sukkah Program FREE
WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 5, 9:30am-1:30pm WHERE: Bet Torah, 60 Smith Ave., Mount Kisco AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Come celebrate Sukkot with services at 9:30am, a lulav and etrog parade at 10:15am, and stories, songs, and crafts in the sukkah with Morah Mindy. Lunch will be served at 12:30. WANT TO GO? 914-666-7595. bettorah.org.
Homework Helper FREE
WHEN: Monday, Nov. 6, 4:30-6:30pm WHERE: Yonkers Public Library - Riverfront Branch, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 5-17 WHAT: After-school homework help is available with a certified teacher for students in first-seventh grades when Yonkers public schools are in session. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.
Musical Extravaganza FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 25, 4-6pm WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 2614 Central Ave., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: A local children’s book author will offer crafts and singer Bailey McGill will play her guitar and sing. Listen to the music of Adele, Taylor Swift, and others. WANT TO GO? 914-771-6400. barnesandnoble.com.
Night Time Arts FREE
WHEN: Nov. 6-27, Mondays, 7pm WHERE: Ruth Keeler Memorial Library, 276 Titicus Road, North Salem AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Teens are invited to drop in on Monday nights in November for an informal arts workshop. Bring your own project or experiment with an idea provided by the instructor, which could include knitting, collaging, and painting. All materials provided. WANT TO GO? 914-669-5161. ruthkeelermemoriallibrary.org.
Young Family Gan Shabbat FREE
WHEN: Through Dec. 2: Saturdays, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Bet Torah, 60 Smith Ave., Mount Kisco AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Shabbat with stories, songs, and snacks. WANT TO GO? 914-666-7595. bettorah.org.
ANIMAL LOVERS Tales for Tails FREE
WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 2, 6pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children in first grade and up are invited to read to a certified Good Dog. Sign-up is required. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com. 32
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Wolves of North America
WHEN: Nov. 4-5, Saturday, 11am; Sunday, 12:30pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the mythology, biology, and ecology of wolf families and discover why it’s a special time for packs in North America. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children. 914-763-2373 x2373. nywolf.org.
Who Gives A Hoot?
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 11, 1:30-2:30pm WHERE: Cranberry Lake Preserve, 1609 Old Orchard St., West Harrison AGES: All WHAT: Learn all about owls and then dissect their pellets to see what they are eating. No live owls will be at this program. WANT TO GO? $4. 914-428-1005. parks.westchestergov.com/cranberry-lake.
Pack Chat
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 18, 2pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem AGES: All WHAT: This is the best introduction to wolves for families with young children. Kids will learn about the mythology of wolves and the importance of wolves in the natural world. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children. 914-400-5551 x5551. nywolf.org.
CRAFTY KIDS Family Art Project: Dances with Leaves
WHEN: Nov. 11-12, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Find an assortment of freshly fallen leaves to use as the subject for fresh, bright prints. Roll up leaves with ink, layer the leaf prints, and add punched-paper leaf shapes into artful arrangements. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200 x3200. wavehill.org.
Native American Craft FREE
WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 14, 4:30pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Enjoy making a special Native American craft to celebrate Native American Heritage Month. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.
Drop In and Draw
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 18, 12-2pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburtone Ave., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Master the media of graphite, charcoal, and soft pastel with artist Terry Kessler Schwarz, who will teach participants how to depict water scenes. WANT TO GO? $6; $3 children. 914-963-4500. hrm.org.
Family Art Project: Cornhusk Dolls
WHEN: Nov. 18-19, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate corn and harvest time. Listen to Native American tales and hear about the power of a talking stick. Then tie, weave, and shape dried husks into a single, cornhusk doll or corny doll family. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.
Family Art Project: Natural Weavings
WHEN: Nov. 25-26, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Gather fall leaves, cones, pods, and seed heads. Weave them together with other materials from the gardens and meadows to create a decorative wall hanging celebrating the bounty and beauty of the season. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.
HOLIDAY FUN Inwood Pumpkin Pageant FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 1, 5pm WHERE: Isham Park, 1 Park Terrace E., Inwood, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Responsibly recycle your Halloween pumpkins at the park where volunteers will light up all the offerings at dusk in a beautiful display of holiday light. The remains will be composted with the help of the New York Restoration Project. WANT TO GO? facebook.com/inwoodpumpkin.
Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular FREE
WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 19, 12pm WHERE: Stamford Downtown, Summer to Broad to Atlantic streets, Stamford, CT AGES: All WHAT: The parade features everyone’s favorite giant balloon characters, award-winning marching bands, and fabulous floats. WANT TO GO? 203-348-5285. stamford-downtown.com.
91st Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade FREE
WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 23, 9am-12pm WHERE: Parade begins at Central Park West and 77th Street, Sixth Avenue, Upper West Side and goes through Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: This year’s parade promises all the awesomely soaring balloons including Hello Kitty, Ronald McDonald, Elf on the Shelf, and Charlie Brown, to name a few, plus marching bands, performers, and floats that families love. WANT TO GO? 212-494-4495. macys.com/parade.
Christmas Tree Sale FREE
WHEN: Nov. 24-Dec. 23, see website for dates and times WHERE: North White Plains Fire Company #1, 621 N. Broadway, North White Plains AGES: All WHAT: The North White Plains Fire Company is once again hosting its annual Christmas tree sale as a fundraising event. WANT TO GO? 914-949-3575. ncsfd1.com.
‘George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker’
WHEN: Nov. 24-Dec. 31, Thursday-Sunday, see website for show times WHERE: David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: From Swan Lake to sugarplum fairies, the music of Tchaikovsky rings beautiful and clear in New York City thanks to this classic holiday performance. Watch stunning ballerinas flit across the stage in a magical world where mischievous mice besiege a battalion of soldiers and a blizzard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets. WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 212-496-0600. nycballet.com.
‘Christmas Spectacular’ Starring the Radio City Rockettes
WHEN: Nov. 10-Jan. 1, 2018, daily, see website for times WHERE: Radio City, 1260 Sixth Ave., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Combining the old with the new, the Christmas Spectacular brilliantly takes audiences on a gorgeously choreographed journey from Santa’s workshop at the North Pole, to the streets of Manhattan, to a beautifully classic “Living Nativity.” WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 212-247-4777. rockettes.com/christmas.
16th Annual Holiday Train Show FREE
WHEN: Nov. 16-Feb. 4, 2018, daily, 6am-8pm WHERE: Transit Museum Gallery Annex & Store, Grand Central Terminal, 89 E. 42nd St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Kids can watch in awe as little Lionel trains roll along a 34-footlong, two-level track that looks just like a mini NYC with a nearby countryside. The scenery even includes its very own North Pole. WANT TO GO? 212-340-2583. nytransitmuseum.org. ››
Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Balloon Inflation Event FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 22, 3-10pm WHERE: West 79th Street and Columbus Avenue, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Watch the big balloons fill up before they make their Thanksgiving Day trip through the heart of Manhattan. WANT TO GO? macys.com/parade. WestchesterParent 33
‘Annie Get Your Gun’
WHEN: Through Nov. 26: Wednesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theater, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford AGES: All WHAT: Frank Butler is the sharpest sharpshooter around and the heart-throb of Buffalo Bill’s travelling Wild West show. He’ll take on any challenge and win, until he meets his match: the rough and ready tomboy sharpshooter Annie Oakley. WANT TO GO? $50 show only. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.
‘Amazon Adventure 3D’ FREE
SHOW TIME! The Yardbirds
WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 2, 8-10pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: An integral part of the British Invasion, these musical pioneers played a significant role in laying the groundwork for rock music. WANT TO GO? $44.50 and up. 914-739-0039 x2. paramounthudsonvalley.com.
The Symphony of Westchester All-Beethoven Concert
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 4, 8pm WHERE: Christopher J. Murphy Auditorium, Iona College, 715 North Ave., New Rochelle AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Pianist Alon Goldstein will open the Symphony of Westchester’s 21st concert season at Iona College with a performance of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in C major, Op. 15. WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 914-654-4926. thesymphonyofwestchester.org.
Zeppelin Complete
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 10, 8-10pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Zeppelin Complete is the brainchild of the original members of the international touring Zeppelin tribute Hammer of the Gods. This six-piece ensemble creates an epic wall of sound Led Zeppelin fans have never before experienced. WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.
WHEN: Through Dec. 7: 1-3pm WHERE: Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Road, Pleasantville AGES: All WHAT: Based on the remarkable true story of Henry Bates, this docudrama will inspire young scientists and impress everyone with its magnificent views of the extraordinary world of nature. WANT TO GO? 914-773-7663. burnsfilmcenter.org.
‘The Christmas Voyager’
WHEN: Nov. 30-Dec. 23, Wednesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theater, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford AGES: All WHAT: Lost in a future time and desperate to return to his home galaxy, our Starman journeys back through time searching for that magical evening on Dec. 24 when three brilliant stars came together and changed the course of history. WANT TO GO? $50 show only. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.
SMARTY PANTS Gaming Thursday FREE
WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 2, 3:45-4:45pm WHERE: Yonkers Public Library - Riverfront Branch, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Enjoy playing with a PS4, iPads, laptops, board games, and your friends. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org.
STEAM Fair FREE
WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 12, 7-9pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Dark Star Orchestra continues the Grateful Dead concert experience built off their extensive catalog and the talent of these seven musicians. WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 4, 1-4pm WHERE: Westchester Community College Center for the Arts, 198 Central Ave., White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Young people interested in technology and the arts with demonstrations of current software for digital art, video game design, and graphics are welcome to attend. There will be hands-on activities, a gaming bus, and an exhibition of local student projects and artwork. WANT TO GO? 914-606-7500. sunywcc.edu/arts.
The Stanley Clarke Band
November Tours
Dark Star Orchestra: 20 Years of Celebrating the Grateful Dead Experience
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 24, 8-10pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Hear music from four-time Grammy winner and bass virtuoso Stanley Clarke. WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 914-739-0039 x2. paramounthudsonvalley.com. 34
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Nov. 2-12, Thursday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: Kykuit: Rockefeller Estate, 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow AGES: All WHAT: Walk through the main rooms of the six-story stone house, then move through the expansive, terraced gardens containing Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller’s exceptional collection of 20th-century sculpture. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 914-631-8200. hudsonvalley.org.
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 24, 11:30am-12pm WHERE: Yonkers Public Library - Riverfront Branch, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: This class use songs, stories, games, and activities to learn to communicate with your baby using signs from American Sign Language in a way that is fun and easy. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org.
CityBound Must-Sees in
N Y C Courtesy Madison Square Garden
Baby Signing Time FREE
Family Gallery Tour
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 25, 12pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Explore artwork on view during a family-friendly tour with a curatorial fellow. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.
Perseus and Andromeda
The Sky Tonight
WHEN: Nov. 4-26, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum and Planetarium, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn what’s going on in the sky on the very night that you see this live, interactive show. WANT TO GO? $4; $2 children. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.
Get in the holiday spirit with the parade of the wooden soldiers.
The Holidays Are Officially Here!
A New York City tradition, the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes will dazzle novice and veteran audiences once again this holiday season! Combining the old with the new, the ever-popular holiday spectacle takes audiences on a gorgeously choreographed journey from Santa’s workshop at the North Pole, to the streets of Manhattan, to a beautifully classic “Living Nativity.” You’ll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the fat man in the red suit to make his appearance too. Nov. 10-Jan. 1, check website for times. Age: All. Starting at $35. Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Sixth Ave., Midtown. 212-247-4777. rockettes.com/christmas.
Meg Banks
Second Saturdays
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 11, 9:30-11:30am WHERE: Boscobel House, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Explore the past through hands-on chores, games, and crafts. Take a flashlight tour of the Boscobel mansion and plant your own mini herb garden. WANT TO GO? $45 for a family of four; $8 per additional person. 845-265-3638. boscobel.org.
Kent Miller
WHEN: Nov. 4-26, Saturday-Sunday, 12:30pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum and Planetarium, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn how the earth, moon, and sun work together as a system in this 26-minute program. WANT TO GO? $4; $2 children. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.
Girls Who Code FREE
WHEN: Nov. 14-Dec. 19, Tuesdays, 4-6pm WHERE: Yonkers Public Library - Riverfront Branch, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Girls can explore coding in a fun and friendly environment at this weekly after-school club. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.
American Dream Collection: Works by Lynn Mara
WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Park, Rye AGES: All WHAT: Drawing inspiration from the beauty of her natural surroundings and the wide spectrum of American iconography, artist Lynn Mara captures the vibrancy of the American spirit through her paintings. WANT TO GO? $7. 914-421-5050. discoverwcm.org. ››
This not-to-be-missed march is good reason to give thanks.
A Turkey-Day Tradition
The 91st Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade promises its aweinspiring balloons—Hello Kitty, Ronald McDonald, The Elf on the Shelf, and Charlie Brown, to name a few—plus marching bands, performers, and floats that families always love. Arrive early so you can snag a good spot on the sidewalk or turn your TV to NBC and watch from home with some hot cocoa in hand. The parade will make its way from the Upper West Side down through the heart of Manhattan. Nov. 23, 9am-12pm. Age: All. FREE. Central Park West and 77th Street, moving south to Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street via Central Park South and Sixth Avenue, Upper West Side and Midtown. 212-494-4495. macys.com/social/parade/2017. WestchesterParent 35
ONCE UPON A TIME Babies and Books FREE
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Family Garden Walk
WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 5, 12pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Visit family-friendly locations in the gardens during a walk with a Wave Hill garden guide. WANT TO GO? $6; $3 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.
Beekeeping Series: Products of the Hive for Health & Home
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 11, 10am-12pm WHERE: Hilltop Hanover Farm, 1271 Hanover St., Yorktown Heights AGES: Adult WHAT: Come and spend a few hours learning how to transform natural beeswax into lip balms, salves, and hand and body creams using products of the hive, oil herbal infusions, and essential botanical oils. WANT TO GO? $20. 914-962-2368. hilltophanoverfarm.org.
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 3, 11-11:30am WHERE: Yonkers Public Library - Riverfront Branch, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Storytime with books, songs, fingerplays, and an introduction to baby sign language. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.
Book Babies Story & Play Time FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 15, 11am WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-5 WHAT: An interactive program for the littlest library lovers and their caregivers. Enjoy stories, songs, puppets, and play time. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.
Story Garden with Miss Alexia FREE
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 17, 11-11:30am WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Join Miss Alexia for stories, songs, and her magic ukulele. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com
SPECIAL NEEDS Special Needs Jump
WHEN: Through Nov. 17: Saturday-Sunday, 11:15am-12pm WHERE: Stone Barns, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: All WHAT: On this family-friendly tour, explore the farm and some of the seasonal highlights. Then walk around the farm to have a look at the animals and the vegetable gardens. WANT TO GO? $10. 914-366-6200. story.stonebarnscenter.org.
WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 5, 8-10am WHERE: Rockin’ Jump, 333 N. Bedford Road, Mount Kisco AGES: All WHAT: Rockin’ Jump offers individuals with special needs and their caregivers the opportunity to socialize in a fun, comfortable, friendly environment. Jump without the crowds—the televisions and music will be turned off. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 additional siblings. 914-743-5730. mtkisco.rockinjump.com.
Meet the Farmers, Greet the Season
ASD: Dino Hunt
Family Farm Tour
WHEN: Through Nov. 19: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: Stone Barns, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: All WHAT: Participate in hands-on activities and drop-in tours. WANT TO GO? $20; $10 children. 914-366-6200. story.stonebarnscenter.org.
Teaching Trails: Weekend Walk for All Ages FREE
WHEN: Nov. 5-Dec. 18, Saturdays, 11:30am WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Guided trail experience through the woodland forest. Volunteers provide information on trees, plants, wildlife, and seasonal changes. WANT TO GO? 914-725-6599. greenburghnaturecenter.org.
Mother Nature’s Storytime
WHEN: Nov. 15-Dec. 20, Wednesdays, 10-11am WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Your child and a caregiver will explore nature on trail walks, and through stories and nature-themed crafts. Dress for the outdoors. WANT TO GO? $50 per six-week session. 914-725-6599. greenburghnaturecenter.org.
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 11, 10:30am WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens AGES: 5-8, adult WHAT: Become a junior paleontologist and uncover the secrets left behind by dinosaurs. Hands-on science experiments and sensory-rich projects in workshops specially designed for children with autism spectrum disorder and their parents and siblings. WANT TO GO? $16; $13 children, students, and seniors. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.
MOVERS & SHAKERS Zumba FREE
WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 2, 6-7pm WHERE: Yonkers Public Library - Riverfront Branch, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Zumba combines Latin and international music with a fun and effective workout system. Ditch the workout and join the party. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.
FIESTA! With Flor FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 4, 11-11:30am WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Flor Bromley teaches Spanish through music, movement, puppetry, and theater-based games. A fun, free, bilingual music program in English and Spanish. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.
Westchester County Center
White Plains
TCS New York City Marathon FREE
December 15−17
WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 5, 8:30am WHERE: New York City’s five boroughs AGES: All WHAT: Thousands will run and millions will watch! Spectators can view from many different parts of the five-borough course, which runs from Staten Island to Brooklyn, through Queens and the Bronx, and on into Manhattan’s Central Park. WANT TO GO? tcsnycmarathon.org.
$27 General $23 Children/Seniors (Ages 10 and under, 60+) $23 Groups of 20+ $32 Day of Performance All ticket prices include the WCC $2.00 ticket fee
Westchester Polar Plunge FREE
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 18, 10am-12pm WHERE: Glen Island Park, Weyman Avenue, New Rochelle AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Take the plunge and spread the message of inclusion. All schools are welcome to participate in the plunge. Give back to the community and demonstrate leadership in your schools. WANT TO GO? 914-813-6720.
Trains & Tracks FREE
WHEN: Tuesday, Nov. 28, 11am WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Play with a huge collection of Thomas and Friends trains. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.
Public Ice-Skating
WHEN: Through Feb. 28, 2018: Monday-Tuesday, 10am-2:30pm; Wednesday-Thursday, 10am-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 10am-11pm; Sunday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Wollman Rink, 59th Street and Central Park South, Central Park, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: This outdoor rink offers an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline, plus a skating school, a hockey program, and birthday party offerings on the ice. Check out the nearby carousel for $3 a ride in between skates. WANT TO GO? Monday-Thursday: $12; $5 seniors; $6 for children 11 and younger; Friday-Sunday and holidays: $19; $9 seniors; $6 for children 11 and younger. 212-439-6900. wollmanskatingrink.com.
INTO OUR GIANT MINIATURE WORLD
Coming up next month: DEC. 2: Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat at Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck DEC. 17: The Laurie Berkner Band: A Holiday Celebration Concert at Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown STARTING DEC. 22: The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the White Plains Performing Arts Center, White Plains
MONUMENTAL. MESMERIZING. MINIATURE.
216 WEST 44TH STREET gulliversgate.com
WestchesterParent 37
WHERE-TO GUIDE
Ice-Skating
nymetroparents.com/where-to
››
Research by Kathryn Sheridan
Time to lace up your skates and practice your figure eights! Winter is upon us and local rinks are ready to have you on the ice. Whether you’re just learning to skate or a total pro, ice-skating is fun for the whole family. Plus, if you don’t land that jump you’ve been working on, you can always cheer up with a cup of cocoa at many ice rink concession stands. As always, call ahead to verify hours and prices before your ice-skating outing. Hours: Year-round: daily, 1:30-3pm Price: $9.75; $7.75 for children 10 and younger; $5.75 seniors and for children 3 and younger; $4.25 skate rental.
Outdoor Rinks
Ebersole Ice Rink Delfino Park, 110 Lake St., White Plains 914-422-1390 or 914-422-1348 cityofwhiteplains.com Hours: Thursday, 12-2pm; Friday, 3-5pm and 8-10pm; Saturday, 1:45-4:15pm; Sunday, 8:30-10:15am (adults only) and 1:15-3:45pm. Price: General Admission: $10 adults; $8 children 18 and younger; $5 seniors. $5 skate rental. Indoor Rinks
EJ Murray Memorial Skating Center: Ice Skating Rink 348 Tuckahoe Road, Yonkers 914-377-6469 yonkersny.gov Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 9:30am12:30pm; Friday, 9:30am-12:30pm and 8:30-10:30pm; Saturday, 11am-1:30pm and 8:30-10:30pm; Sunday, 12-3pm and 7:10-8:30pm. Extended hours during holiday periods; call for schedule. Price: $11; $3 seniors. $4 skate rental. Hommocks Park Ice Rink 140 Hommocks Road, Larchmont 38
914-834-1069; hommocksicerink.org Hours: Through March 29, 2018: Monday, 12:30-2:30pm; Tuesday and Thursday, 1-5:15pm; Friday, 1-5:15pm and 7:30-9:30pm; Saturday, 1-5:15pm; Sunday, 11am-4pm (During October, November, and March, the Saturday Public Sessions end at 4pm). See website for special holiday weekday schedule. Price: $8.50; $7.50 children younger than 12; $6.50 seniors. $4.50 skate rental. Discount with resident ID card (and Discount Cards for 12 sessions) and season passes available. The Ice Hutch 655 Garden Ave., Mount Vernon 914-699-6787; icehutch.com Hours: Year-round. Call for weekly schedule. Through Oct. 31: Tuesday, 3-5pm and Saturday, 1-2:30pm. Schedule updated 2 months in advance; November and December schedule available at the end of October. Price: $8 adults and children; $5 seniors. $4 skate rental. PlayLand Ice Casino 100 Playland Parkway, Rye 914-481-5941 playlandice.com
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Westchester Skating Academy 91 Fairview Park Drive, Elmsford 914-347-8232; skatewsa.com Hours: Year-round: Monday, 11:40am1:10pm and 1:30-4:30pm; Tuesday, 9:3011:30am and 1:30-3:30pm (Mondays and Tuesdays are subject to change during the winter season); Wednesday, 9:30-11:30am, 11:40am-1:10pm, and 1:30-4:30pm; Thursday, 9:30-11:30am; Friday, 9:3011:30am, 11:40am-1:20pm, 1:30-4:30pm, and 7:30-10pm; Saturday-Sunday, 1-3pm. Extended hours during holiday periods. Hours subject to change. Check website. Price: $11; $10 children ages 4-10; $6.25 seniors and children ages 3 and younger. $4.50 skate rental.
ROCKLAND COUNTY Outdoor Rinks
Bear Mountain State Park Ice Rink Palisades Parkway/Route 9W North, Bear Mountain 845-786-2701 bearmountainicerink.com Hours: Scheduled to open Saturday, Nov. 4. Monday-Tuesday, 10-11:30am and 12-1:30pm; Friday, 8-9:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10-11:30am, 12-1:30pm, 2-3:30pm, 4-5:30pm, 6-7:30pm, and 8-9:30pm (last session is on Saturdays only). See website for additional holiday schedule information. Price: $5; $4 children ages 4-11; $2 non-skaters and seniors; free for children ages 3 and younger. $4 skate rental. $5 skate sharpening. $10 parking on weekends and holidays. Indoor Rinks
Palisades Center Ice Rink 4900 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack 845-353-4855
palisadescentericerink.com Hours: Daily, year-round. Call or check the website for public skating times. Price: $10; $8 seniors and children younger than 10. $4 skate rental. Ten-visit punch cards and season passes available. Sport-o-Rama 20 College Road, Monsey 845-356-3919; sportorama.com Hours: Tuesday skate sessions: 3:30-5pm until Oct. 31 (times subject to change). Starting Nov. 4: Saturdays, 9-11pm. Starting Nov. 12: Sundays, 3:10-5pm. Holiday hours: 1-4pm. Price: $6 Tuesdays; $9 Saturday-Sunday; $10 holidays; $4 skate rental.
FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT Indoor Rinks
Danbury Ice Arena 1 Independence Way, Danbury 203-794-1704; danburyice.com Hours: Year-round: Monday,
Tuesday, and Thursday, 11am2pm; Wednesday, 11am-2pm; Friday, 11am-2pm and DJ Teen Night for ages 13 and older, 8:30-10:30pm; Saturday, 1:30-3:30pm; Sunday, 2:304:30pm. Schedule is subject to change, please check website. Price: $9; $7 for children 12 and younger; $6 seniors. $4 skate rental; $4 helmet rental. DJ Skate on Fridays: $10 Darien Ice Rink 55 Old Kings Highway N., Darien 203-655-8251 darienicehouse.com Hours: Year-round: Monday, 10am-1:20pm; Tuesday and Thursday, 10am-2pm; Wednesday and Friday, 12-2pm; Sunday, 1:10-2:50pm (starting in November). Schedule subject to change, check the website for updates. Price: $9; $7 children; $5 seniors. $4 skate rental. Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink 14 Sherman Ave., Greenwich
203-531-8560; greenwichct.org Hours: Monday, 12-1:30pm; Tuesday, 12-1:30pm, 7-8pm, and adults-only skate 8-9pm; Wednesday, 12-1:30pm and 3:30-5pm; Thursday, 121:30pm; Friday, 12-1:30pm, 3:30-5pm, and 7:30-9pm; Saturday-Sunday, 2-4pm. Price: Proof of Greenwich residency is required for admission. A Greenwich resident may bring a non-resident as a guest. $8 ($10 guest); $6 children ages 5-15 ($8 guest); free for ages 65 and older ($8 guest) and children younger than 4. Fairfield Ice Academy 85 Mill Plain Road (Building J), Fairfield 203-254-8399 fairfieldiceacademy.com Hours: Year-round. Hours vary, check the website. Price: $7; $10 every third Friday night teen disco 7-9pm. $5 skate rental.
Sports Center of Connecticut 784 River Road, Shelton 203-929-6500 sportscenterct.com Hours: Year-round: Hours vary, check the website. Price: $12; $10 children ages 12 and younger. $6.50 skate rental; $8 skate aids for children ages 6 and younger ($5 deposit required) Stamford Twin Rinks 1063 Hope St., Stamford 203-968-9000 stamfordtwinrinks.com Hours: Year-round: Monday, 9am-1:45pm; Tuesday, 10:30am-1:45pm; Wednesday, 9am-1:30pm; Thursday, 9-11:45am; Friday, 9am1:45pm and 8-10pm; Saturday, 12:30-2pm; Sunday, 12:30-2pm. Price: $9; $10 Friday night skating. $4.50 skate rental. Preferred customer discount cards available.
Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/ice-skating
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Does My Child Have an Eating Disorder? ››
Three experts share what to look out for, the physical and mental health risks, and getting your child the help she needs. By Katelin Walling
N
ational surveys estimate that nearly 20 million females and 10 million males will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives, according to the National Eating Disorders Association. And when most eating disorders get diagnosed? “Between the ages of fourteen and eighteen,” says Joanna Steinglass, M.D., associate professor of clinical psychiatry and director of translational research in eating disorders at the Columbia Center for Eating Disorders. “There are some reports that people are noticing and diagnosing and getting kids to treatment even earlier, which may be a sign that parents are getting more informed.” In fact, NEDA cites an increase in the diagnosis of children, some as young as 5 or 6. Eating disorders are mental illnesses that are serious and can be treated, though it’s unclear for certain why they occur. Some factors include body image issues, self-esteem issues, being bullied about looks, the need to control something in his life, and societal pressures for looking like the actresses and models she sees on TV,
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in magazines, and in the movies. There is also a possibility that eating disorders could be genetic. Studies have found that having a parent or sibling with an eating disorder increases a child’s risk of developing one, according to NEDA. And while the Internet and social media may have a negative role in eating disorders, a lot of celebrities and “regular people” have used various platforms to talk about their experiences with eating disorders, including Sadie Robertson of Duck Dynasty and Dancing with the Stars, who wrote about her eating disorder on her blog Live Original; actress Troian Bellisario, known as Spencer Hastings on FreeForm’s Pretty Little Liars, who wrote about her eating disorder for Lena Dunham’s Lenny Letter; and pop star Kesha, who wrote some of the songs on her new album during a three-month stay at an impatient facility for women with eating disorders, addictions, mood disorders, and trauma while getting treatment for “an eating disorder that nearly killed her,” according to her recent Rolling Stone profile.
With eating disorders being talked about more and more often, parents may be left wondering whether their child has one, what the signs are, and how they can support him.
Eating Disorders Explained
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“I think it’s probably most helpful for parents to know that there are a lot of different ways that eating disorders can present themselves,” Dr. Steinglass says. “It may be more important to have a sense of whether something feels like it’s not quite right and let the doctors figure out what the right name for it is.” While a medical professional should do specific diagnosing, it may be helpful for parents to know about the various eating disorders and how they typically present. Anorexia nervosa: A person with anorexia generally restricts the number of calories and the types of foods she eats, according to NEDA. Typically someone with anorexia is of low weight and is restricting his eating to the point where if he is growing, he’s not gaining weight, so he becomes thinner and more out of his range for expected weight and height, says Michelle Miller, Psy.D., a psychologist at the Child Study Center at NYU Langone Health. Alternatively, if she’s stopped growing and stays at the same height, her weight is going down. “That is all due to restriction of eating that’s related to control, which may be a concern about weight or body image. Some individuals may be over concerned about a health focus as well. They feel that every food has to be ‘healthy,’ and so they’ll only eat certain types of food to maintain that,” Dr. Miller says, adding that an individual with anorexia may engage in compensatory behavior such as self-induced vomiting, using laxatives, or excessive exercising to address their concerns about body image and compensate for what he has eaten. Bulimia nervosa: An individual with bulimia will go through periods of two hours or less during which she eats an amount of food that is larger than what one would expect to eat in that period—and feels she has no control over the behavior. After that period of time, she engages in a compensatory behavior to “undo” the effects of binge eating, according to Dr. Miller. Binge eating disorder: Like with bulimia, an individual with binge eating disorder consumes a large amount of food in a short period of time. However, unlike with bulimia, compensatory behaviors are not present, and patients will typically present very overweight, according to Michele Calderoni, D.O., who specializes in adolescent medicine at Crystal Run Healthcare. While we all have occasional periods of time when we might eat more, such as a dinner out with friends or at Thanksgiving, “when they do it, they feel a lack of control in the episode, like they can’t stop eating,” Dr. Miller says. “They’ll eat until they feel extremely, uncomfortably full, and they keep eating even when they’re not physically hungry. They also may eat alone.” Avoidant / Restrictive Food Intake Disorder: Previously referred to as Selective Eating Disorder, ARFID is similar to anorexia in that it involves limitations to the amounts or types of foods consumed, but it does not involve concerns about body shape or size, according to NEDA. A person with ARFID is “avoiding whole food groups not because of fear of weight gain or body image concerns or a need for control, but because of a lot of sensory difficulties, because they have low interest in food, and/or because they’re continued on next page ››
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concerned with having negative consequences from eating, such as feeling so uncomfortably full that they’re nauseous or they’re afraid of throwing up,” Dr. Miller says. “The condition usually starts early on, so it’s not something that we would typically see as developing later. You see it usually starting in childhood and they become pickier and pickier as they get older and start getting more and more anxious around food.” Rumination disorder: Those with rumination disorder regurgitate or vomit food, chew it, and swallow it, and there is no known gastrointestinal etiology, Dr. Calderoni says. “I actually have a patient right now who has this. She has had a full GI workup, and we can’t find any reason for her vomiting. It can happen any time on any day. There are no real triggers or explanation…and there are no electrolyte abnormalities that correspond and no physiological abnormalities that correlate,” she says. “[Rumination disorder] is very rare, but we do see it from time to time.” Orthorexia: Although it’s not formally recognized in the DSM, awareness of orthorexia—a fixation on so-called “healthy eating” that a person damages his or her own well-being—is on the rise, according to NEDA. Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorder: Previously known as Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, OSFED is considered a “catch-all” to classify eating disorders that do not meet the criteria for anorexia or bulimia, according to NEDA. “It’s a huge category, which we all hate to use, but sometimes it really is the only diagnosis that encapsulates what’s going on at the time,” Dr. Calderoni says. “But we try very hard not to put our patients in that category.”
Signs of an Eating Disorder
The main signal for parents that their child may have an eating disorder are changes in behavior of eating, changes in behavior of physical activities, or changes in weight, Dr. Steinglass says. As an eating disorder progresses, you may start to see your child isolate himself, and see mood changes. Typically with anorexia, a child will become preoccupied with what foods she is eating, a decrease in the amount of food she is eating, she may push food around the plate, or make excuses as to why she can’t eat. “Bulimia and binge eating disorder are a little trickier to recognize because they’re often done in secret,” Dr. Miller says. Another possible sign of binge eating disorder or bulimia is if quantities of food disappear over an evening or a short period of time, Dr. Calderoni adds. Other possible signs of bulimia include frequent use of the bathroom immediately after meals, signs of vomiting or laxative use, and tooth decay from vomiting frequently. “And I think with all of these conditions, except with ARFID, you’re hearing concerns about how they look and what they’re eating and complaints about their weight,” Dr. Miller says.
Talking to Your Child
If you suspect your child may have an eating disorder, it’s best to approach him in a nonjudgmental way. “I think it’s really wise to sit down with your child and ask your child very nonjudgmental questions about their health and how they’ve been feeling. I think you need to make it nonjudgmental because you want your child to trust you and to feel that they can tell you what’s going on because many kids will try to hide this,” Dr. Calderoni says. “You can comment that you may have noticed changes or things they’re saying about themselves or things about their eating that made you concerned,” Dr. Miller says, adding to be cautious if 42
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
your child is showing signs of bulimia or binge eating as those conditions are associated with a lot of guilt. “So going about it like, I’ve noticed you’ve been stressed around your eating, and I want to see if there’s a way we can help you feel better,” she says. As with any medical diagnosis, it’s important to see a doctor to get your child evaluated. “It’s good to go to a doctor to get a health workup to see if there’s anything going on with [your child’s] health, and rule out any cause that is unrelated to eating. I’d also recommend getting an evaluation through a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in eating disorders to help identify if it is an eating disorder before jumping to any conclusions,” Dr. Miller says. “If it is identified as an eating disorder, either through a physician or a therapist, then the next step would be to make sure the child is enrolled in treatment. Eating disorders can be very complex and is not something you should try and fix outside of therapy.”
Treatments for Eating Disorders
Across the board, “parents play a huge role in helping kids get out of an eating disorder and they may need to take a big role in figuring out how to get their kids back on track with normal and healthy eating,” Dr. Steinglass says. “The kinds of treatments that tend to be helpful are things that have a real emphasis on seeing change in behavior and paying attention to what’s actually happening with eating and normalizing eating. That can occur in all kinds of settings and all kinds of different ways.” While specific treatment plans will vary depending on the child and the eating disorder, there are a few techniques medical professionals employ when treating a child or teen with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, or ARFID. Multi-disciplinary approach: With this approach, your child will have a three-person treatment team: a medical provider, a nutritionist, and therapist. “Eating disorders are multi-factorial and the treatment has to be tailored to each of these components,” Dr. Calderoni says. The medical provider identifies the medical consequences of an eating disorder and ensures the patient is physically and medically safe. The nutritionist ensures adequate nutrition is part of the treatment plan. “It’s important to have somebody who understands nutrition from a macro- and a microelement perspective, and who also understands eating disorders,” Dr. Calderoni advises. The therapist addresses the mental health piece of the eating disorder. “Again, it should be a certified eating disorder therapist. That’s very important as well because there are triggers and other behaviors that are just really not understood by all therapists,” she adds. This approach is very individualized, meaning the child is the one who works with the medical provider, nutritionist, and therapist. Family-Based Therapy: Unlike with the multi-disciplinary approach, parents are heavily involved in FBT, which can be used to treat adolescents with anorexia or bulimia. Families work with an FBT therapist through three phases of treatment. During phase one, the parents have complete control over what the child eats—the parents plan, serve, and supervise all meals. In phase two, the patient gradually gains control over mealtimes—deciding what, when, and how much to eat. In phase three, the FBT therapist works with the family in addressing other issues in adolescent development as needed, according to Dr. Calderoni. Off the C.U.F.F.: Developed for treating ARFID by Nancy Zucker, M.D., a child and family psychologist, eating disorder specialist, and director of the Duke Eating Disorder Center, C.U.F.F. stands for clear, undisturbed, firm, and friendly. This program provides practical strategies to help parents deal with their child’s eating behaviors.
When treating a child with ARFID, “it’s important that parents use different terms that are very clear and specific around what they want their child to eat and how much of it while remaining as calm and undisturbed around their child as possible,” Dr. Miller says. “That they’re being very firm in what they want their child to do, but they also have moments where they’re doing positive things with their child unrelated to food because often times when a child has an eating disorder, it can become the sole focus for the family. So we want them to do things with each other outside of the eating disorder.”
Physical and Mental Health Risks
Eating disorders have a number of associated physical and mental health risks. Eating disorders can: cause abnormalities in electrolytes; cause changes in potassium, phosphate, and magnesium; affect bone marrow and white blood cell count; put a young adult at risk for a heart attack; and affect growth. They can also compromise fertility and reproductive systems. “In young girls, they either won’t get their period, or if they were getting a period, their periods will go away, and when we look at the hormones that correlate with cycling normally—LH, FSH, and estrogen—those hormones are decreased. In young boys or young men, testosterone will also become decreased,” Dr. Calderoni says. The decrease in estrogen and testosterone affect bone density. Bulimia affects tooth health, while those with binge eating disorder are at risk for obesity. And “the starvation that comes with anorexia nervosa has one of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric illness,” Dr. Steinglass says. As a result of a malnourished brain, individuals with eating disorders may also experience depression, anxiety, irritability, inability to sleep, cognitive impairment, and decrease in memory and attention, Dr. Calderoni says. And social anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder are common in those with anorexia, according to Dr. Miller.
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Reducing the Risk
While there are no sure-fire ways to prevent children from developing eating disorders, there are things parents can do at home to reduce the risk of their child developing one. The experts we spoke with agree that families should not talk about food in terms of good and bad or healthy and unhealthy, and instead focus on having a balanced diet and moderation in meals. “Teach your child that having fruit one night and having ice cream one night for dessert is okay,” Dr. Calderoni says. “What I find is if you tend to have a very restrictive food environment at home, many times these kids become binge eaters or they learn that being restrictive is the way to eat.” Other things that can help reduce the risk are: have family meals together as often as possible, keep conversations during family meals positive, and make sure meals include a variety of foods, Dr. Miller says. Dr. Steinglass advises parents also keep the focus on body wellness—how your body can be healthy for you—rather than body image or size. “I also think families should try to not use negative terms like ‘chubby,’ or ‘you have thick legs,’ or ‘you’re built like Grandma, who is three-hundred pounds.’ I think staying away from comments about their bodies and body types is really important,” Dr. Calderoni adds. “We’re all born differently. Sometimes you do get one kid in the family that’s a little heavier than everyone else. It’s just best to not really talk about it. When you go shopping for clothing, try to stay away from sizes and comparison between children and not be so concentrated on what size your children are. Just love your child for who they are.”
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ONLINE EXTRAS Parents of kids with special needs are joining other advocates to put a stop to the “R-word.” Find out how, and what you can do at ›› nymetroparents.com/r-word
Children of siblings with special needs face their own unique challenges— and opportunities for growth. ›› nymetroparents.com/special-siblings.
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INSIDE
SpecialParent
46 Focus on Your Abilities: When your child with special needs is feeling discouraged, use this as a guide to help him through it. 54 G rowing Up with a Brother with Special Needs: The important life lessons I learned from my brother—and why I wouldn’t change a thing
SPECIAL NEEDS
To help your child focus on his abilities rather than disabilities, have him write down positive qualities about himself and tack it on the wall for him to look at when he’s feeling down.
Focus on Your Abilities
››
When your child with special needs starts to feel discouraged in school, let him read this, or use this as a guide, to help him through it. By Wendy L. Moss, Ph.D., and Denise M. Campbell, M.S.
W
herever you are in the process of getting special education, you have probably been working hard at things that are challenging for you. But it’s important to remember that your challenges are not what make you special. They are not what make you YOU. There is a lot more to you than your difficulties. And it is important not to forget about all your strengths, talents, and skills.
Six Steps for Being a Positive, Confident You
Life can be pretty stressful when you worry a lot about why you have challenges and what you can do about them. It is important to focus on improving areas that are hard for you. But it is just as important to focus on your abilities. To help you do this, this excerpt will talk about six big steps. These steps can help you learn ways to feel positive about yourself and your skills. You can use these steps even while you’re working to improve in your areas of difficulty. As you read about these six steps, you may be tempted to skip 46
November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
over some of them. But try to go step-by-step without missing any. Each step is important. Step #1: Focus on the Positive Have you ever cheered up a friend who was feeling sad? Maybe you did this by reminding that friend how great he or she is. Good friends do this for each other. Confident people also do this for themselves—and you can, too. First, take a few minutes to think of at least three positive qualities about yourself. These qualities shouldn’t be about what you can do well. You’ll think about that next. Right now, think about your personality. Can you think of three great things about your personality? You can write them on notebook paper. Or you can type them on a computer and print out your list. You can also have an adult help you type or write the list. Then keep this list in a place where you can look at it often. If you have trouble coming up with three special qualities, look over the following list. Which words describe you? Feel free to use different words if you have qualities that aren’t on this list.
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• gentle • awesome • sweet • brave • thoughtful • courageous • energetic • confident • helpful • smart • unique • caring • fair-minded • studious • loving • kind
Now, add some areas of talent or ability to your list. Maybe you really enjoy one of these activities or are really talented in one of these areas: • dancing • reading • juggling • remembering things • computer games • taking care of animals • painting ACTIVITIES• baking EVENTS MORE • drawing • karate • creating fun videos • chess • writing poetry • solving problems • swimming • spelling • taking care of • being younger kids • organized • making people laugh • soccer • magic tricks • collecting coins This list does not cover every talent that people could have. Write (or type) what your talents are, even if they are not on this list. Then, keep paying attention to things you’re good at. Whenever you notice one of your talents, skills, or special qualities, add it to your growing list. It can also be helpful (or just fun) to ask family, friends, teachers, or other people you trust what positive words they would use to describe you. Add those words to your list. Look at your list whenever you need reminders of all the great and special qualities that make up you.
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Step #2: Be Kind to Yourself In Step 1, you came up with a list of great things about yourself. Get advance notice on activities, How do you feel when you read the list? In other words, do you appreciate your special qualities and skills? Do you smile when participate in group discussions you think about what makes you a unique person? and receive special notices. You can be kind to yourself by remembering your abilities and talents. Be sure to do this even when things are tough. In fact, it is especially important to be kind to yourself at those times. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents Of course, everyone has bad days when it is hard to focus on the positive qualities. Maybe you are struggling with a homework assignment that seems easy for your friend. Or you ACTIVITIES EVENTSOn days MORE might have baked a cake that came out lopsided. like this, can you still feel good about your abilities? If you struggle continued on next page ››
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‹‹ continued from previous page
to stay positive during difficult times, try some of these ideas for being kind to yourself. • Admit that you wished for a different outcome. It’s okay to feel disappointed when things don’t go as you had hoped. But it’s important to remind yourself that you are still a great person. • Remember that one disappointment does not represent who you are. One difficulty does not define you or explain who you are as a person. You will have disappointments and challenges. Everyone has them. But these difficulties don’t take away from all your abilities. Remember that your abilities are part of you no matter what challenges you currently have to deal with. • Learn from the experience. Use it to set new goals for the future. At the same time, try to feel proud of what you tried and what you did. • Laugh with yourself. We all mess up sometimes. But try not to laugh at yourself. That can hurt. Laughing with yourself is like saying, “Oops! Oh well. I may have made a silly mistake, but who cares? It really was a little funny.” Laughing at yourself is like someone teasing or bullying you. • Ask friends, family members, or teachers for tips on how they stay positive when they face challenges. Step #3: Believe That Hard Work Pays Off...Really Lots of kids roll their eyes when adults say, “Hard work pays off.” So, before you roll your eyes and skip this section, hang on! Putting in a lot of effort definitely can pay off. But maybe it hasn’t always worked that way for you in the past. If you try a plan over and over again and it doesn’t lead to success, you are still working hard. But it’s only leading to frustration. You probably need a new plan—one that gets you closer to reaching your goals. You also don’t need to focus only on tasks that are difficult for you. You may find it pays off to work hard in areas that you are already talented in. Working hard doesn’t mean you will have instant success. And it doesn’t mean you’ll be able to figure out how to do everything by yourself. Working hard does mean that you are willing to put in time to improve and that you are willing to try different ways to improve. It means asking for help when you need it. And it means feeling proud that you have the courage to keep trying. (This idea is also called perseverance.) Step #4: Remember That No One Is Perfect Have you ever looked around your class and thought, “That kid has it all together. He’s perfect!”? Or maybe you’ve looked at a friend and thought, “She just does everything right.” You might be surprised to learn that many kids have these thoughts about others. Even some adults feel like a coworker “knows everything” or a friend “never struggles with anything.” Here’s the truth: No one is perfect. And remembering this will help you accept yourself when you make a mistake or don’t do something perfectly. Instead of thinking that there is something wrong with you, you can remind yourself that you are human. That means that you and everyone you know will make mistakes and not be perfect at everything or on every day. So, why put pressure on yourself to be perfect? Confidence plays a big part in how other people see you. And it’s easier to be confident when you remember that no one
48
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is perfect. This can help you laugh at your mistakes rather than feeling disappointed or embarrassed. And it can help you feel better about getting extra help. If you feel like you have to be perfect all the time, think about this: Even Olympic athletes, who are some of the best in the world at their sports, aren’t perfect. In the Olympics, ice-skaters sometimes fall and runners sometimes trip. If you worry a lot about being perfect, talk about this with someone you trust. Step #5: Keep Trying When Things Are Hard We all run into obstacles and difficulties. We all fail or make mistakes sometimes. These mistakes don’t mean that we can’t eventually succeed at a task. They simply mean that we need to keep trying. What’s most important is how we handle the difficulty. It can be tempting to give up when we feel discouraged. And it’s true that some goals are impossible. When you were younger, did you ever try to fly by flapping your arms? No matter how hard you worked at that goal, it would never happen. Try to set goals that are possible and realistic. And as you work toward your goals, take pride in improvements you make along the way. As you work on not giving up, it can help to think about how you usually handle challenging events. Do you feel easily defeated? Or do you remember that you have lots of positive qualities, even when you’re struggling with something? Think about the following situations and pick the choice that is closest to how you would probably respond. 1. You and a friend both play a video game for the first time. You lose in Level 1. Your friend easily makes it to Level 4. You: (a) Think, “I’m terrible at this. I’ll never get better at this game no matter how hard I try. I’m never playing this game again.” (b) Want to buy the game to get better at it. Even so, you doubt that you’ll ever get past Level 1. (c) Plan to ask your friend for tips on how to improve. Then you’ll play the game again to see if you can come up with even more ideas. 2. Your teacher gives your class a week to complete a homework assignment. You have to write about your hero and then read your essay in class on the due date. When it is time to share, all the kids at your table have three or four paragraphs written about their heroes. You only wrote three sentences. You: (a) Think, “I know I stink at writing, and this proves it! I’ll have to find a way to leave the classroom before it’s time for everyone to read their essays.” (b) Tell the other kids, and your teacher, that you had a lot of things to do after school this week. You say that’s why you didn’t have time to write more. Then you read your three sentences aloud. (c) Tell kids, and your teacher, that you think of great ideas but have a hard time writing essays. You also ask for tips on how others write, so that you might be able to write more easily next time. 3. You like to run, and have always thought you were fast. Your older brother is on the track team. He says you should think about trying out. So you decide to go to a practice and see what it’s like. At practice, the coach times everyone running 500 meters and then a mile. You come in 6th place out of 13 in the 500 meter, and last place in the mile. You:
(a) Think, “I obviously can’t run fast when it really counts. My brother’s idea was stupid. I’m never going back there again.” (b) Feel embarrassed. You wonder whether you could ever be fast enough to make the team. But you decide you’ll go back to the track to try to beat your times. (c) Remind yourself that you are a hard worker. And now you feel really motivated to improve your times. You decide you’ll still try out for the team. If you make it, you’ll learn from your teammates and coach. You feel confident that you could be faster by the end of the season. How did you answer these questions? If you gave some “a” answers, you may sometimes give up when you run into challenges. If that’s true, it’s important to find ways to build your confidence and stay motivated. If you responded with some “b” answers, you learn from your experiences. You probably feel okay about yourself, even when you face obstacles. If you gave some “c” answers, then you know it’s okay to admit that you are not perfect. You probably also know how to set goals and work toward them. When you feel good about yourself, you’re able to handle challenges more easily. You are more likely to find the strength to keep trying and not give up. And you feel proud of your efforts. Here are a few tips on how to keep trying and not give up: • Check on whether your goal is possible. You might want to talk this through with an adult. If your goal is reachable, remind yourself of that. If it isn’t, work on setting a new goal. • Remind yourself of your abilities so you don’t get too discouraged or upset with yourself when you can’t succeed immediately. • Most people have to work to get better at things. Remind yourself that you may feel frustrated but that is not always a reason to stop trying or to get mad at yourself. • Remember that it’s okay to ask for help. If you are getting really frustrated, then it’s time to calmly ask for the specific support that would help you. • Rather than trying to reach a huge goal right away, try reaching a smaller goal that can eventually lead to the bigger one. For example, you could work on playing a scale on the piano before playing a difficult song. You might discover that you feel excited about taking on the challenge of learning something new or reaching a goal. It can also be fun to pay attention to your improvements along the way. These can help you stay motivated and positive as you work through obstacles.
• Accept compliments from others. You deserve credit for your strengths. • Share your interests and talents with others so they know about what you like and what you do well. But try not to brag. For example, instead of saying, “I’m great at archery!” you could say, “One of my hobbies is archery. What do you like to do?” • Show that you are comfortable asking for help. • Show that you can bounce back from mistakes or tough times. Sometimes it’s hard to do this after something difficult happens in your life. But you can take steps to help yourself. For example, asking others for support is a sign of strength and courage. So is spending time focusing on what is relaxing or fun for you. Even if you can’t do this right away because you feel stressed or upset, it’s a goal to strive for when you are ready. • Try not to put yourself down, either out loud or in your mind. If you do, it’s okay to tell yourself, “Putting myself down doesn’t help. I need to be my own best friend and be kind to myself instead.” Think about people you know who seem confident. Pay attention to how they act and talk. You will probably notice that they do many of the things you just read about. You may spot other confident things they do, too. Next, give it a try yourself— act confident. It can help you eventually feel confident.
Excerpted from The Survival Guide for Kids in Special Education (And Their Parents) by Wendy L. Moss, Ph.D., and Denise M. Campbell, M.S., © 2017. Used with permission of Free Spirit Publishing Inc., Minneapolis, MN; 800-735-7323; www.freespirit.com. All rights reserved.
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Step #6: Show Your Confidence It’s great to feel confident. It can mean that you aren’t too nervous to take on new experiences, because you believe you can handle them or you can comfortably ask for help. And showing your confidence can let others know that you value yourself and like being you. But many kids are not sure how to share their talents with others without sounding like they are bragging. (Some adults have trouble with this, too.) Here are some great ways to let your friends, teachers, and other people know that you are happy being you: • Smile! • Stand or sit up straight and tall. • Make eye contact with other people. (But remember not to stare.) • Expect that most people will like you. • Honestly compliment others on their abilities. WestchesterParent 49
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Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources.
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!
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!
DAVE AND BUSTER’S PELHAM MANOR 881 Pelham Parkway, Pelham Manor 914-380-8506 daveandbusters.com/specialevents beatriz_peneda@daveandbusters.com Dave & Buster’s of Pelham Manor is the best place for birthday parties, with great food and games all in one place, it’s the perfect party space.
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, at which action-packed parties and unmatched experience have won children’s hearts for 35 years.
FUNFUZION AT NEW ROC CITY 29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle Party Central: 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.
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.
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!
HOUSE OF SPORTS WESTCHESTER 1 Elm St., Ardsley 914-479-5419 houseofsportsny.com The House of Sports is Westchester’s ultimate birthday party zone for children of all ages! Give your child the party of their dreams by hosting a sports-themed bash at Westchester’s premier athletic facility. 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
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, coding, and more! PROSWING ProSwing of Port Chester 36 Midland Ave., Port Chester 914-937-6700, Sam Colon sam@proswingbaseball.com ProSwing of Mount Kisco 27 Radio Circle Drive, Mount Kisco 914-242-1626, Dan Gray dan@proswingbaseball.com proswingbaseball.com Our facilities are available for team and individual workouts, special events, and birthday parties for children and adults. SPORTIME USA 380 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-2111 x2 sportimeusa.com
Birthday parties? That’s our specialty! Celebrate your birthday at Sportime 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. SUGAR MAMA BY KIM BAKESHOP 1985 Palmer Ave., Larchmont 914-834-8340 sugarmamabykim.com party@sugarmamabykim.com Have your next birthday party with us. The children bake and decorate cookies or cupcakes. Party games, decorating chef hats, and pizza or bagels too.
OPEN HOUSES 2017 A Child’s Dream, L.L.C.
to discover the Iona Prep difference. With a 100-year tradition of excellence, small class sizes, and safe 11-acre campus, see why you should say #IAmIonaPrep for your son!
Attend A Child’s Dream open house on Thursday, Nov. 9 from 10am-12pm and experience the secure and structured environment we provide in our small classes. Your child will be kindergarten-ready after preschool at A Child’s Dream.
New England Fashion+Design Association
10 Mill Road, New Rochelle 914-633-4332 Tiffany Amaya and Ana Caldararo, directors achildsdreamnursery.com amc1125@gmail.com
Hudson Country Montessori School 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 914-636-6202 hudsoncountry.org
Tours are available each weekday beginning at 9:30am. Please call to schedule a visit and see how we inspire a love of learning in each child.
Iona Preparatory Lower School
173 Stratton Road, New Rochelle 914-633-7744 x418 Deirdre Mone, admissions director ionaprep.org/openhouse
Join us Nov. 2 from 6-8pm
31 Mamaroneck Ave., Studio 512, White Plains 914-222-5220 sonofashiondesign.com irina@sonofashiondesign.com
Join us for an open house every Saturday from 12-2pm. Our association offers the best workshops in the field of fashion design offered to teens and adults.
Whitby School
969 Lake Ave., Greenwich, CT 203-869-8464 x176 whitbyschool.org/openhouse smead@whitbyschool.org
Attend Whitby School’s open house on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 1pm, and experience how our student-driven program masterfully prepares students 18 months through eighth grade to excel in high school and beyond. Register at whitbyschool. org/openhouse.
Professional services
Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals CLEANING & HOME IMPROVEMENT MJS CARE SERVICES 914-314-7727 mjscare.com MJS caters to families in Manhattan and Westchester areas. Offering amazing discount packages for our House Care department. We offer housekeeping, pet care, and house-sitting services. EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS LAZARSPEECH GLORIA S. LAZAR, M.S., M. PHIL., C.C.C. 30 Birch Way, Tarrytown 914-631-5082 lazarspeech.com info@lazarspeech.com As a licensed, certified speech-language pathologist and communications coach, Gloria Lazar has an individualized, caring approach. She assists in the improvement of speech, language, writing, and executive function skills for children and adolescents. PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS WESTCHESTER PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING CENTER Dr. Friedmutter, director
1088 Central Park Ave., Suite 224, Scarsdale 914-548-7509 wptcenter.com wptcenter@gmail.com At Westchester Psychological Testing Center, we offer psychological, psychoeducational, and neuropsychological evaluations to determine if an individual has a learning disability, autism, or AttentionDeficit / Hyperactivity Disorder and what specific test accommodations or special education services are necessary and appropriate. SPECIAL NEEDS LAZARSPEECH GLORIA S. LAZAR, M.S, M. PHIL., C.C.C. 30 Birch Way, Tarrytown 914-631-5082 lazarspeech.com info@lazarspeech.com As a licensed, certified speech-language pathologist and communications coach, Gloria Lazar has an individualized, caring approach. She assists in the improvement of speech, language, writing, and executive function skills for children and adolescents.
A Lavishly Illustrated Children’s Story of Friendship and Overcoming Obstacles
Tilly... A Deer’s Tale (BASED ON A TRUE STORY)
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 Available at Barnes & Noble, Walden Books and at Amazon.com For books preview and sale, visit us at:
www.tillyadeerstale.com
WestchesterParent 51
Meet the Health Care
PROFESSIONAL
To be in this section, call 914-379-0200 or email nympads@davlermedia.com
Caring for Kids Dr. Ivis Getz 140 Lockwood Ave., Suite 315, New Rochelle 914-355-2265; caringpediatricdentistry.com caringpediatricdentistry@gmail.com
Jamee M. Goldstein, D.O., Monroe Pediatric Associates, Allied Pediatrics 70 Gilbert St., Monroe 845-782-8616; monroepediatrics.org
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.
100 + CHARACTERS, INTERACTIVE DJ’S FROZEN & NEW KIDS BAND ‘THE HONEY BEATS’ PHOTO BOOTHS NEW! ROBOTIC ANIMALS (ROBO ZOO)
Jamee M. Goldstein, D.O., received her B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University: College of Human Ecology. She received a Graduate Certificate in Premedical Sciences from Duquesne University, and her D.O. from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Goldstein completed her residency in pediatrics at The Infants and Children’s Hospital of Brooklyn, Maimonides Medical Center. She returned home to join Monroe Pediatrics and to work alongside her mentor, Dr. Alan Harawitz, in 2004. She is board-certified and a fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians.
PARTY PLANNER
To advertise: 914-397-0200 or nympads@davlermedia.com Want to know the best
activities for families?
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COMPLETE CARNIVAL & PARTY PLANNING
914-235-7100 www.davescast.com
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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS
DANCE
RELIGIOUS
Gym Cats Gymnastics................................................ 56
Studio B Dance........................................................... 23
Archdiocese of New York.............................................. 2
ISGC Gym.................................................................. 56
Beth El Synagogue Center......................................... 28
Jodi’s Gym - Westchester........................................... 41
EDUCATION
BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES
Alcott Montessori........................................................ 11
Blue Moon ................................................................. 28 Gulliver’s Gate............................................................ 37 Gym Cats Gymnastics................................................ 56 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester........................................... 41 Little Gym - Westchester.............................................. 3 Pinebrook Fitness....................................................... 25 Sportime USA Inc....................................................... 15
A Child’s Dream.......................................................... 11 Beth El Synagogue Center......................................... 28 Blue Rock School......................................................... 9 Dicker Reading Method................................................ 5 Hudson Country Montessori......................................... 9 Iona Prep.................................................................... 13 Molly Ness.................................................................. 28 Sylvan Learning Centers............................................ 21 Whitby School............................................................... 9
Iona Prep.................................................................... 13 RESTAURANT / FOOD SERVICES Blue Moon ................................................................. 28 RETAIL Pedigree Ski Shop...................................................... 43 Sophia’s...................................................................... 28 Tilly...A Deer’s Tale...................................................... 51 Yes She Can Inc. / Girl AGain ................................... 28
Westchester Parent Party Planner............................. 52 Yes She Can Inc. / Girl AGain ................................... 28
Congregation Kol Ami Early Childhood...................... 11
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS
SPECIAL EVENTS
CAMPS
ArtsRock of Rockland................................................. 21
ArtsRock of Rockland................................................. 21
A Child’s Dream.......................................................... 11
Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor................................. 28
Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor................................. 28
Ann & Andy................................................................. 41
Gulliver’s Gate............................................................ 37
Nutcracker Ballet........................................................ 37
Camp Huntington........................................................ 47
Palace: Stamford Center for the Arts (The)................ 31
Stamford Downtown................................................... 19
Camp Ramaquois....................................................... 24 Hudson Country Montessori......................................... 9 ISGC Gym.................................................................. 56 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester........................................... 41 Little Gym - Westchester.............................................. 3 Studio B Dance........................................................... 23 Whitby School............................................................... 9
Sportime USA Inc....................................................... 15 Stamford Downtown................................................... 19
SPECIAL NEEDS Camp Huntington........................................................ 47
FITNESS Jodi’s Gym - Westchester........................................... 41 Pinebrook Fitness....................................................... 25 HEALTH Allied Physicians Group........................................ 13, 52
CHILD CARE / DAY CARE
Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry........................................ 27
Ann & Andy................................................................. 41
Caring for Kids Pediatric Dentistry.............................. 52
Easter Seals Project Explore...................................... 31 Gina DeCrescenzo, P.C.............................................. 44 Green Chimneys......................................................... 24 JCC of Mid-Westchester............................................. 44 Pegasus Theraputic Riding........................................ 44 Westchester Creative Arts Therapy Services............. 47
Gentle Care Pediatric Dentistry.................................. 23
SPORTS
CLASSES
Main Street Pediatric Dentistry................................... 39
House of Sports.......................................................... 27
Alcott Montessori........................................................ 11
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital (The)........................ 55
Easter Seals Project Explore...................................... 31
Pediatric Associates of Southern Westchester........... 25
THEATER
Gym Cats Gymnastics................................................ 56
The Lice Chicks.......................................................... 41
Palace: Stamford Center for the Arts (The)................ 31
Molly Ness.................................................................. 28
Westchester Creative Arts Therapy Services............. 47
Pinebrook Fitness....................................................... 25
TUTORS
Studio B Dance........................................................... 23
LEGAL SERVICES
Dicker Reading Method................................................ 5
Whitby School............................................................... 9
Gina DeCrescenzo, P.C.............................................. 44
Sylvan Learning Centers............................................ 21 WestchesterParent 53
Courtesy Amanda Marrone
VOICES Growing Up with a Brother with Special Needs ›› The important life lessons I learned from my brother—and why I wouldn’t change a thing By Amanda Marrone
W
hen I was young, I don’t think I fully grasped the concept that there was something “wrong” or “different” with my brother. Joe and I are exactly 1 year and 4 months apart, so I have no real recollection of the many surgeries he had to endure or the fact that he had to be fed through a feeding tube as a baby. As the older sister of a brother with special needs, I just took Joe for how he was instead of acknowledging his differences compared to other kids. Joe was born with a birth defect that affected the blood flow from the left ventricle of his heart, which lead to him having multiple open-heart surgeries in his infant and early childhood years. As a result, he did not have enough oxygen going to his brain, and he was put on a heart and lung machine three times before he was even 6 months old. Due to this, Joe has developmental delays. Growing up with a sibling with special needs comes with a unique set of challenges and blessings. When we were little, we did a lot of the same things together, including playing on the playground, watching the same television shows, and playing with our toys. As time when on, I started to move onto more complex games and TV shows while Joe didn’t. I began to realize the limitations Joe had made him different from other kids his age. Joe required a lot of special attention from my parents to deal with his many issues, whether it was bringing him to frequent doctors’ visits for his heart or seeing a speech or physical therapist. I was often dragged along to these appointments and spent a lot of my time in doctors’ waiting rooms with the most boring games imagined. But that is how things were, so although I am sure I often complained, I began to accept it as a part of my life. At a very early age I needed to learn about the virtue of patience that comes with having a brother with special needs. Joe would often have outbursts when learning new things he felt were too difficult to learn. My parents and I would have to reiterate multiple times the simple instructions of buttoning up a shirt or removing the cap off a water bottle. It took Joe a lot longer to learn these simple tasks that come naturally to most. As we both got older, the way the world perceived Joe started to become more important to me. I think it is natural for older
Amanda Marrone with her brother Joe as young children
siblings to protect their younger siblings; however with Joe’s issues, I always seemed to take it more personally. I hated the way people would talk or ask about my brother when it was done with a sense of pity or discomfort. I don’t see Joe’s disability as a burden or a tragic event that happened to my family. Joe’s disability is part of him, and I don’t define him based on it. Joe is the life of every party or event my family attends. Everyone always seems to know (or at least know of) my brother. He is friendly and welcomes everyone with open arms. He makes the effort to get to know everyone he comes in contact with, even the waiter at a restaurant. Joe loves music and hanging out with his friends. He thrives in any situation that involves him interacting with people. He enjoys watching football on ESPN and knows more about the sport than one would expect. Although there are challenges that made growing up with a brother with special needs difficult, these experiences shaped me into the person I am today. Joe not only taught me patience in any situation, but also to have empathy toward others; that what might come naturally to one person might be a challenge for another. Joe’s issues also taught me a great deal about sensitivity to other people’s situations since everyone is fighting a battle that most people do not know about. The most important lesson Joe taught me is, even though someone has a disability, this does not diminish their capability to make a difference in the world or teach others. Joe has taught me that no situation can ever be that bad, and happiness is a choice regardless of circumstance. Without being Joe’s older sister, it is hard to say that I would have gained these characteristics or learned these life lessons that are essential to the person I am today. And because of that, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Amanda Marrone, a former NYMetroParents editorial intern, is in her senior year at Fairfield University.
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November 2017 | nymetroparents.com
The children’s hospital for the Hudson Valley.
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital The most pediatric specialties in the region. The only comprehensive cardiovascular, neurosurgery and cancer care programs for children. An extensive minimally invasive surgery program. Only Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.
westchestermedicalcenter.com/mfch
Westchester Medical Center Health Network includes: WESTCHESTER MEDICAL CENTER I MARIA FARERI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL I BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTER MIDHUDSON REGIONAL HOSPITAL I GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL I BON SECOURS COMMUNITY HOSPITAL I ST. ANTHONY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL HEALTHALLIANCE HOSPITAL: BROADWAY CAMPUS I HEALTHALLIANCE HOSPITAL: MARY’S AVENUE CAMPUS I MARGARETVILLE HOSPITAL
WestchesterParent 55
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 • Tumbling 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
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)
gymcats.net 914-965-7676
• Boys & Girls • Ages 20 months & up • Beginner-Advanced • Tumbling • Private Lessons
Gymnastics benefits your child’s skills to enhance other sports, self esteem, coordination, strength, flexibility & more!
Ask About Our Toddler Open Gym Programs! A walk in, noninstructional playtime for crawlers to 4 year olds
All of our famous parties are private! Our interactive staff will make your child’s party a very special one.