Westchester Parent December 2016

WestchesterParent DECEMBER 2016

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Staging a Holiday Classic

Behind the scenes at a local Nutcracker production

Weird Behavior Explained Why kids do the strangest things

Staycation Inspiration

Seven fun-filled itineraries for local family fun

CUT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS TREE • MANNERS & ETIQUETTE SCHOOLS

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, December 11th, 2016 from 2-4 PM

WestchesterParent

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NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

December 2016 ››

44

Features

16 Upholding a Holiday Tradition A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to put on a performance of The Nutcracker

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20 Minding Their Manners It may seem quaint, but etiquette schools for kids are thriving.

22 Make Your Own Hot Cocoa Three recipes that use favorite flavor combinations 40 Kids Do the Weirdest Things Some of your child’s strangest behaviors and habits, explained by experts 44 A Staycation a Day Ideas for six fun-filled family days around the New York metro area

Connections

40

22

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 12 Voices: Pride and Fear 15 NYMP Q&A: Risa Klein, a certified nurse midwife, talks midwifery

Fun & Activities

14 Media Matters: Virtual Stocking Stuffers 14 DIY Corner: Christmas Crackers 24 Outing: Vanderbilt Museum 27 Family Activities Calendar 38 Where-To Guide: Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

Directories

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

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19 46 48 49 49 50

#SnapShot2016 Winter Break Activities Meet the Health Care Professional Open Houses Family Resource Guide and Party Planner Advertisers’ Index

Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com) Clothing provided

by Appaman (appaman.com)

››

ON THE COVER ›› 16 Staging a Holiday Classic 20 Manners & Etiquette Schools 38 Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

40 Weird Behavior Explained 44 Staycation Inspiration Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!

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DECEMBER 2016 • Vol.16 • No.4

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

EDITOR’S NOTE

MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens

‘No Feet in Soup’

O

ne of my kids compulsively put her feet on everything, to the point where I had to institute a rule that’s become infamous in our household: “No feet in soup.” Another one can’t go more than a few minutes without her fingers in her belly button. I am sure many of you are nodding knowingly, since my kids are hardly unusual, even if the particulars differ person to person. Let’s face it: Kids do weird stuff, even they can’t explain why they do it. So we turned to the experts and asked them to explain kids’ unusual habits, from putting things up their noses to stripping in public to finding potty humor irresistible (p. 40).

Usually, these odd-but-normal behaviors fade as kids get older and move on to the next mysterious habit. But learning to navigate the world can be difficult for many children. Enter manners and etiquette schools. You may have thought these were a thing of the past, but they’re alive and well in our region. And while they still teach kids the basics—sitting and eating properly at the dinner table, making eye contact and conversing with adults, and so on—many also ready their students for a world where so much communication happens via social media, texts, and email. Megan Bailey takes a look at today’s manners and etiquette programs and how participants benefit from them (p. 20).

Holidays are, of course, a good time for kids to remember their manners, between the festive dinners and the presents for which they need to say thank you. It’s one of my favorite times of year, as I look forward to Hanukkah lights and my kids’ winter break. I often find, however, that I can’t decide what to do as a family, even when we are all eager for a fun outing. To help out, Bethany Braun-Silva offers seven “staycation” itineraries around the region (p. 44).

Even though I don’t celebrate Christmas myself, I’ll admit to loving the lights, decorations, and general vibe the season brings. I’ll also make another admission: I’ve never seen The Nutcracker. Not by design, nor by opposition to it—it’s just never happened. So I was fascinated to read what it takes to mount a local production of this holiday classic in Samantha Neudorf’s behind-the-scenes look (p. 16).

Whatever your plans this December, and whatever holiday(s) you celebrate, may the month—and the new year ahead—be filled with joy, peace, and health for all of you.

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

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

PRODUCTION

Michael Kress Editorial Director

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

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

The NYMetroParents

Caring Kids AWARDS

So many children and teenagers dedicate time to helping in our communities, and plenty of families do volunteer work together. If this describes your kids or your family, enter The NYMetroParents Caring Kids Awards, and be eligible to win a $500 gift card!

Here’s how it works: • Go to nymetroparents.com/caring-kids between Nov. 1 and Nov. 30.

• Follow the directions there to tell us—in 75 words or less—about your child’s or your family’s community service efforts and the impact this volunteer work has on others. If you’d like, you can upload a photo or link to a video of them volunteering.

• Eight Caring Kids will each receive a $500 gift card and a letter of commendation, and many more will be featured in our magazine and/or website.

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

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

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

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN PARENT, FAIRFIELD PARENT and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2015, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

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Who: Sound Shore Indoor Tennis What’s New: Classes such as Cardio Boot Camp, which gets participants moving with quick drills and games, all while holding a racquet.

The boot camp class combines tennis with a workout to raise the heart rate.

Drop-In Clinics, designed for those with a busy schedule, have also been added. Players can drop-in for an hour-long clinic with a certified tennis professional to hone their skills. Clinics are offered Monday through Sunday, daytime and evening.

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Tennis Center in Port Chester Offers New Classes

The entrance to Sound Shore Indoor Tennis

Who: Rockin’ Jump What’s New: The Ridge Hill Mall location in Yonkers, which opened in November.

The trampoline park includes an open jump arena, a dodge ball arena, and foam arena.

The park also features obstacle courses and jousting challenges, as well as a Vertical OPS wall on which players can race each other to the top, and a Slam Dunk Zone, which provides kids with launch pads to help them show off their basketball dunking skills.

Want More Info: 1 Ridge Hill Blvd., Yonkers; 914-510-9119; ridgehill.rockinjump.com

Courtesy Rockin’ Jump

Rockin’ Jump Opens in Ridge Hill Mall

Kids try out the trampolines at Rockin’ Jump.

Who: John Montgomery, Ph.D. What’s New: Academic coaching services, which specialize in helping students overcome specific emotional and behavioral issues that hinder academic success.

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“Most tutors are just not qualified to deal with larger emotional blocks and issues. As a certified therapist who also has experience as a tutor, I specialize in using the tutoring process to help them through these blocks, which specifically apply to their academic pursuits,” Dr. Montgomery says.

Want More Info: 917-244-5161; homeostasispsychology.com

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy John Montgomery, Ph.D.

Children’s Therapist Offers Academic Coaching

John Montgomery, Ph.D., is now offering academic coaching.

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UOTABLES Their quirks are the things that are important to me. Not photos of them looking perfect. …

When they were ready to go out that door, I was pretty sure that my heart might literally burst. My girls felt completely comfortable with themselves and completely beautiful.

What better gift is there to give them?

—Westchester mom Jennifer Garry, in a post entitled “School Picture Day Rebellion,” on her blog cuddlesandchaos.com

in an instagram Writing workshop at school ... I love every minute that I get to spend with my girls.

(Posted by @3citygirlsnyc, aka Nilsa K, who blogs at 3citygirlsnyc.wordpress.com)

A SPECIAL MILESTONE “My son has autism and, at age 13, recently saw a movie in a theater for the first time. It is not something I thought would work for him—until now.”

in an instagram It’s so nice here, Mama! Can I take a nap? deitar no chão sujo do parquinho, né?

Tão gostoso

(Posted by @blogmeandthecity, aka NYC mom Fernanda Seelos, who blogs at blogmeandthecity.com)

“Every mother should know she is not alone in this. It is going to take some getting used to. Everyone struggles at first—everyone—even if they don’t admit it.”

—Kate Bingham-Smith, in a post on scarymommy.com entitled “What Every Mother Should Know.”

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

—Manhattan mom Dana Greenberg in an article entitled “Taking a Child with Autism to the Movies: 5 Tips From a Mom Who’s Been There.” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/autism-movies.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: SEE THE WINDOWS: Find department-store holiday displays at nymetroparents.com/windows.

CHOO CHOO! See where to find holiday train shows at nymetroparents.com/holiday-trains.

COLD & FLU SEASON: Learn how to avoid common childhood illnesses at nymetroparents.com/prevent.

HIT THE ICE: Find ice-skating rinks near you at nymetroparents.com/ice-skating.

WESTCHESTER’S PREMIERE COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL SINCE 1944

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• Performance Opportunities for All Enrolled Students

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

WestchesterParent 11

VOICES

Pride and Fear

››

The intense, mixed emotions of being the wife of a police officer. By Bethany Braun-Silva

D

uring Spirit Week at my son’s school, students were asked to dress up as what they wanted to be when they grew up. My son chose to be a baseball player, and I figured we would see lots of other ballplayers, along with plenty of doctors and superheroes. But that wasn’t the most popular choice among kids at his school—not even close.

As we approached the school, I noticed dozens of kids dressed as police officers, which surprised me. Boys and girls, younger as well as older kids, all decked out in navy blue uniforms and badges. I had a sense of pride, and I smiled at the innocence of these kids’ desires to serve and protect. I also got a rush of anxiety because, should these young children still want to be cops when they actually do grow up, they are in for a rough road. It’s a tough life, and police officers and their families need a lot of support—not to mention, it’s scary as all get out.

My husband is a New York City police officer, and he is very dedicated to his job. He takes it seriously; he does it with pride and rarely complains. With two young boys at home and a demanding job with even more demanding hours, the fact that my husband doesn’t complain isn’t just worth mentioning, it’s a feat in itself.

As a cop’s wife who also works, it has been tricky managing our schedules. He works nights, and so, between work and parenting duties, I sometimes go several days without interacting with my husband face to face. This is the norm, and the boys and I have grown accustomed to missing him and spending weekends without him. We try to capitalize on any time off my husband has by spending quality time together and doing fun things as a family.

However, with the recent bombings and ever-present threats in New York City, we’ve had even less time together than usual, since he has been working tons of overtime. As for me? I am more anxious than ever about his career given the current climate and recent police shootings.

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

At home, we talk about these things in private. Our sons are 4 and 1 and best left out of conversations about the dangers of their father’s job, at least for now. However, one day in the near future we will have to sit them down and explain the realty of being a police officer. We will have to tell them that police officers sometimes make the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect the people of their community. That sometimes officers make bad decisions. That while it is a noble, selfless profession, many officers misunderstand the responsibility they have to protect and serve.

In lieu of those talks, right now we have a strict family rule of saying “I love you” and giving hugs and kisses when Daddy leaves for work. It’s a great tradition that I’m sure many families enjoy, but in our home, as in many law-enforcement families, it is not to be missed, even on the busiest days. That’s the strange reality of living with a police officer. He might not come home after his shift. He might not come home ever again. That truth is something I carry with me always, but am sadly reminded of it more frequently of late.

We live in scary times and part of me just wants to run away from it all and move to a more serene environment—somewhere with a backyard and a garden, where I can give my kids a more innocent upbringing. But that’s out of the question given my husband’s job. Plus, the reality is there are dangers everywhere. I support my husband in his career, just as he supports me in mine.

Whatever happens, we will get through it as a family.

With all that being said, life is otherwise great. Our boys are happy and healthy, and I have pretty much adjusted to the demands of being a police officer’s wife. It’s unfortunate that we live with the ever-present knowledge of potential tragedy in our lives, but that just comes with the territory. On the other side of it, we have our own personal hero who protects and serves us daily.

My boys and I couldn’t be prouder.

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In Theaters Dec. 21: Sing

Our Partner: Common Sense Media An independent nonprof it that helps families make smart media choices.

Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org

Parents need to know that Sing is an animated comedy that looks like a mash-up between Zootopia and American Idol. In a world in which animals walk, talk, wear clothes, and— yes—sing, Buster, a koala (voiced by Matthew McConaughey), proposes to host a singing competition in a last-ditch effort to save his theater. Animals from near and far gather to vie for the prize money, including a gorilla trying to get out of his father’s gang (Taron Egerton), a suburban mama pig (Reese Witherspoon), and even a gambling mouse (Seth MacFarlane). Some of the humor might not be appropriate for the littlest kids, but overall Sing looks like a movie that kids and parents will be able to enjoy together.

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

DIY CORNER HOLIDAY FUN

Christmas Crackers

Making your own crackers is fun and easy, and it means you can put your own choice of novelties and silly handwritten jokes inside.

Make the crackers from colorful wrapping paper and trim them with sequins or glitter finished with pretty bows. Or throw in some confetti to add a fun element to your New Year’s Eve party.

You will need: • Cardboard toilet rolls • 8-by-8-inch piece of paper per cracker • Pencil • Ruler • Scissors

• Glue or sticky tape • Snaps for crackers (you can find these on Amazon.com) • Gifts, paper hats, and jokes • 8 inches of ribbon (¼-inch wide) per cracker • Sequin trim

Directions: 1. Lay the cardboard roll in the center of the paper and mark the position of each end using a pencil. Set the roll aside.

2. Using the marks made on the paper as a guide, fold the paper, right sides together, and press the folds flat. Using a ruler, mark out lines along the fold approximately ¾ inch apart, stopping approximately 1 inch in from the outside edge of the paper.

3. Use scissors to cut along the marked lines to create slits in the paper. Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the other side.

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

4. Now unfold the paper and lay it flat, wrong side facing up. Place the cardboard roll on top. Apply a dab of glue or use a small piece of double-sided tape to hold the paper on the roll. Wrap the paper around the roll as tightly as you can. Apply glue along the whole edge of the paper and press firmly in place. Allow to dry completely.

6. Push the cracker snap through the open end of the roll. This is also the time to insert any small gifts or trinkets, a paper hat, and a joke or other motto.

7. Cut the ribbon in half and tie a length of ribbon around one end of the cracker. Tie in a knot. Repeat at the other end. Trim the ends of the ribbon on the diagonal with scissors to prevent them fraying.

8. Measure the circumference of the cracker and cut three lengths of sequin trim to fit. Glue the sequin trim in rows around the cracker. Allow glue to dry completely.

Crackers Safety: Crackers snaps are a low-risk fire hazard and must always be used with adult supervision. Never pull a snap on its own.

Visit nymetroparents.com/crackers for step-by-step photos.

Excerpted from My First Christmas Craft Book, Cico Kidz, $14.95; rylandpeters.com.

Photography by CICO Books 2016.

NYMP Q&A

What a Midwife Does ››

By Bethany Braun-Silva

When your little angel thinks he’s a daredevil...

Risa Klein is a certified nurse midwife with an office on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

She was the “birth consultant” for the feature films Baby Mama and Laze.

Are there any misconceptions about midwives you want to set straight? Midwives are very smart. We go through very rigorous academic accredited midwifery schools. Sometimes people think midwives only do home-births for impoverished, poverty-stricken people around the world, and that’s really not true. Midwives serve women of all socio-economic backgrounds and what we do is we pride ourselves on understanding what is normal for each woman we see. We also do GYN-care, conscious conception planning, and contraceptive planning. Basically, midwives have a holistic view of the process of birth and childbirth is just an organic, natural process. Midwives see it as normal, it’s not a disease; it’s nothing to be afraid of.

Can any woman see a midwife during her pregnancy? We take care of healthy, low-risk women. We don’t take care of women with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, or other metabolic diseases. We could co-manage women, but for the most part we take care of healthy women, but we are educated and experienced to screen for other risk factors. So many women think, “Oh, I’ll be safer with an OB,” but if there’s a true medical issue, then we will refer, consult, and collaborate with an obstetrician, with a perinatologist, or with a genetic counselor. So what I could share is that a lot of people don’t understand the magnitude of experience midwives have in terms of understanding the medical piece of it, and knowing when to and how to recognize if there is a challenge, and when to consult and co-manage.

Any tips for woman to help make pregnancy an easier, more enjoyable process? Many women are working very hard, and they’re going up and down stairs and going to the gym, but unbeknownst to them, they’re throwing themselves into pre-term labor and their waters are breaking early because they’re doing too much. So I really encourage women to go slow. My phrase is, “be boring.” Modify work, go in late, work from home, do what you can so you can enjoy the last few weeks and not risk a premature labor. In our country we have very high infant morbidity and mortality, and it’s truly something that I believe could be avoided with positive communication about eating well, having protein in the diet, making sure a woman’s blood volume stays high, and getting enough rest. If a woman is dizzy by exercising and running around and forgetting to eat or drink, those all set up for preterm labor contractions.

Better have a good pediatrician.

Make sure your kids are covered.

Contact Affinity Health Plan at 866.247.5678 (TTY 711) to obtain more information about Child Health Plus, a free or low-cost health insurance program sponsored by New York State for kids under the age of 19.

To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777.

AffinityPlan.org/CHP WestchesterParent 15

Samantha Neudorf

Julieta Cervantes

The party scene from the Westchester Ballet Company’s 2015 production of The Nutcracker

Logrea Dance Academy students rehearse the finale from The Nutcracker in October.

Upholding a Holiday Tradition

››

A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to plan, choreograph, and perform The Nutcracker, a beloved holiday show. By Samantha Neudorf

A

t 1pm on a recent Saturday, Beth Fritz-Logrea ushers all of her ballet students into the studio to begin rehearsing the snow scene from Act I of The Nutcracker. The girls stand in position and Fritz-Logrea walks up to them to go over placement on the stage at Logrea Dance Academy in Ossining. Each girl is given a number, which corresponds to a marker on the stage designating where she should stand. Twenty minutes after first inviting the students in, they’re all in place and Fritz-Logrea walks to the front of the studio, sits in a director’s chair, and cues her husband, Jean Logrea, to start the music from the top of the snow scene. Rehearsal has begun.

The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition that kids and adults look forward to each year. First performed at the Imperial Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1892, the ballet is Alexandre Dumas père’s adaptation of the story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, written by E.T.A. Hoffmann. Despite those roots, it was not until 1964 that The Nutcracker gained popularity. That’s when George Balanchine—considered by many as the “Father of American Ballet”—debuted his rendition of the ballet at New York City Center.

In Balanchine’s words, his Nutcracker was to be “full-length and expensive,” according to Vanity Fair. He envisioned a grandiose tree for the background, and somehow managed to get a $40,000 tree commissioned to make the magic of The Nutcracker feel as real as possible.

That magic, as well as the tradition of this ballet, are still very much alive and well today—at major venues such as Lincoln Center as well as at regional and local theaters seemingly everywhere. No matter where it is produced, the grace and 16

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

beauty on display is the result of countless hours of hard work by dedicated dancers, many of them teens at local high schools.

A Ballet Family

Westchester Ballet Company’s version of this classic has been the responsibility of co-directors Jean Logrea and Beth Fritz-Logrea since they became owners of the dance troupe in 1985. A year later, they founded the Logrea Dance Academy and named it the official school of the Westchester Ballet Company.

Though Fritz-Logrea stopped personally performing in the production 25 years ago, she is both the choreographer and director of the show. Her husband has played the role of Uncle Drosselmeyer for the past 31 years, while their son, Nick, will be performing in his 25th Nutcracker show in several different roles: the butler in the party scene, the Mouse King, the Arabian pas de deux, and a soloist for the company’s Ukranian variation—an added scene that is not usually performed in other Nutcracker productions.

Nick says the best part about performing each year is being on stage. “There’s something about being on stage and being in front of a large group of people and performing for them then getting the satisfaction of them applauding you at the end,” Nick says.

“It’s a big adrenaline rush, something that I’ve loved from the very beginning.”

Balancing High School with Rehearsal

Back at rehearsal, there are nearly 28 girls who have been cast in the snow scene, divided into two groups, each of which will perform at two of the four shows. Fritz-Logrea runs through the

scene with the first cast for the first time this season. All of these dancers are wearing pointe shoes and are between ages 11-18, including the dance studio’s three graduating seniors: Charlotte Chandler, Clare Hammonds, and Molly Powers.

These three girls have been dancing for 15 years and have been performing in the Westchester Ballet Company’s Nutcracker for 10-12 years each. Powers and Chandler first started out as mice and Hammonds was a page; this year, they each have three roles—Chandler, a 17-year-old from Cross River, is a snow soloist, Chinese soloist, and the Dew Drop Fairy; Hammonds, a 17-yearold from Ossining, is a snow soloist, in the gigue variation, and is the flower soloist; Powers, a 17-year-old from Hawthorne, is a party scene guest, in the snow scene, and is a flower soloist.

The teens dance ballet six days a week, which is how they’ve grown close to one another. “We’re all such good friends and the community surrounding us helps to put on the performance,” Hammonds says.

“That plays a huge part in performance week for us.”

The most challenging part for these seniors is juggling college applications and extracurricular activities with dance rehearsals six days a week. Saturday rehearsals for The Nutcracker are four hours long.

“This teaches you time management because you’re here so often, but you need to focus on your studies, too,” says Powers, a member of the National Honor Society at her school.

The end of the snow scene transitions into one in which Clara, the main character, travels to the Land of Sweets with the Nutcracker Prince. Clara is played by 14-year-old Rylee Carpenter of Ossining. She has played Clara for the past three years, and aspires to perform on Broadway when she is older.

“I love being able to act, especially doing Clara,” Carpenter says.

“I love the feeling of acting and dancing because it just lets me express myself more.” She also takes theater and singing lessons in addition to dance.

Tim Bohrman, a 14-year-old from Carmel, is Logrea Dance Studio’s oldest boy, and has been dancing for 10 years. He will play Fritz, the lead soldier, and the Chinese soloist in this year’s performance, and this is his first year as a soloist. “A lot of the guy parts are a lot of fun because there’s usually a lot of cool jumps and turns,” he says.

Bohrman started taking ballet after his older sister—who is now 20 and a trainee with the Orlando Ballet Company in Florida— started taking lessons. Though Bohrman also takes modern and tap at the dance studio, he says his favorite dance is ballet and intends to join a ballet company, just like his older sister.

Planning the Production

To mount an ambitious production such as The Nutcracker, the Logreas start thinking about the show as early as late July or early August. Right after their spring season is over in May, they sit down and discuss which dancers are returning and start calling guest dancers to see if they will be available.

Auditions for this year’s Nutcracker were held in midSeptember, and are typically open to whoever would like to be a part of it. Students at Logrea Dance Studio are not required to participate in The Nutcracker, and they are also not guaranteed a role just because they are a part of the company. Rehearsals begin a week after auditions and run until performance week— Dec. 16-18 this year.

In order to ensure the production is staged as planned, there continued on next page ››

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WestchesterParent 17

‹‹ continued from previous page

are also many logistics to be considered. Westchster Ballet Company board members must consult with the performance venue—the Westchester County Center in White Plains—and the county Parks and Recreation department to take care of contracts. They also have to coordinate with the stage crew at Westchester County Center about technicalities such as lighting and set changes.

The Logreas are able to bring in guest dancers from ballet companies around the world because of the connections they have made over the years as ballet dancers themselves. Beth and Jean met when they both danced at the Graz Opera House in Austria.

There are usually four to five guest dancers who perform in their show, and the Logreas say it is good experience for their students to see what it is like to dance among a professional. “[To see] how they carry themselves on and off the stage, how they prepare for the production in the warm-up class, how early they arrive to the theater—it’s just good for the kids to witness,” Logrea says.

Keeping the Magic Alive

After the Mouse King is slayed on stage during the performance, a screen comes down, the Nutcracker Prince comes to life, and Drosselmeyer introduces him to Clara. The music crescendos, the lights dim, and dry ice blocks are placed to create the illusion of a dreamlike fog—then the snow scene begins. Nick says that is his favorite scene from the show.

“I know dancers that have graduated from us and have come back to watch… they still say to this day that they always cry during the beginning of the snow scene,” Nick says. “I still get chills every time that music comes up.”

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Logrea recalls a time when a college student visited Westchester and watched the show—particularly the transition into the snow scene. “He said, ‘I’ve never seen anything like that before, and I will never forget that in my life,’” Logrea says.

It’s what every Nutcracker performer everywhere hopes for, performance after performance of this holiday-season tradition.

WHERE TO SEE PERFORMANCES OF THE NUTCRACKER IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY The Whitney Theater 265 Clove Road, New Rochelle ajkunbt.org Dec. 2-3: Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm and 7pm $25 White Plains Performing Arts Center 11 City Place, White Plains greenwichballetacademy.org Dec. 3-4: Saturday, 2pm and 7pm; Sunday, 2pm $30 and up Tarrytown Music Hall 13 Main St., Tarrytown tarrytownmusichall.org Sunday, Dec. 4, 3pm and 6pm $35

The Colonial Nutcracker Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill paramounthudsonvalley.com Saturday, Dec. 17, 3pm $26 Westchester County Center 198 Central Ave., White Plains countycenter.biz Dec. 16-18: Friday, 10am; Saturday, 12:30pm and 4:30pm; Sunday, 2pm $26; $22 for children 10 and younger and seniors older than 60; $32 day of performance

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2016

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WestchesterParent 19

Courtesy Fleur de Lis Academy

Students at Fleur de Lis Academy in Norwalk, CT, prepare for the day’s lesson.

Minding Their Manners

››

It may seem quaint in today’s world, but etiquette schools for kids are thriving nonetheless. By Megan Bailey

I

t seemed to be that whenever 5-year-old Belle sat down for dinner, most of it would end up on the floor rather than in her mouth. She overlooked the fork and knife and used the tools she was born with—her fingers. As a result, Belle’s parents got tired of crawling under the table to pick up whatever they’d had for dinner that night. But they couldn’t seem to get Belle to stop, so they turned to some outside help.

That’s right: We’re talking etiquette school. Belle’s mom, Anne, decided to enroll her in a dining course at Beaumont Etiquette in Manhattan.

Not wanting it to feel like a punishment, Anne set out to make sure Belle saw it as a fun and light-hearted activity. When the day came to start, Anne made it a big deal for Belle, dressing her daughter in a cute party dress, letting her put on some makeup, and getting her excited about using fancy tableware.

During class time, Beumont’s founder and director, Myka Meier, taught Belle the basics of mealtime etiquette, including where your napkin goes, when to use a fork and a spoon, and how you shouldn’t put your feet up while eating.

Today, Anne is happy to report, Belle’s food now reaches her mouth instead of the floor, she utilizes her silverware, and she even stirs her mother’s tea on a regular basis. “Do you think Myka would be proud that I did this?” Belle will ask Anne from time to time. Or she will turn to her little brother and say, “Good, Jack. You’re eating over the plate!”

“She picked up some things from it, and I think it was a great thing and I know she had fun doing it,” Anne says. “It was more of a fun activity than a class.”

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

In our fast-paced world, in which families are eating together less often and informality seems to rule the day, it may seem as if manners and etiquette are a thing of the fabled past. But Belle is far from the only area child who’s learned a thing or two from a program like Beaumont’s. Schools, classes, and private teachers dedicated to spreading the gospel of good manners are still thriving in 2016.

“I think we’re all seeing a big increase in business because it’s becoming almost trendy again, it’s becoming cool,” Meier says.

“I think the millennial generation and onward have a lot of new challenges in everyday life, and we have to cater to the changes that are happening around us.”

Manners vs. Etiquette

To understand what goes on in these programs, it’s helpful to define some terminology, starting with the fact that manners and etiquette are not, in fact, the same thing.

“Good manners never change,” says Michelle Sperry, founder and director of Fleur de Lis Academy in Norwalk, CT. “For example, 100 years ago it wasn’t okay to bonk someone over the head and take their food. And, it still isn’t okay to do that.”

Etiquette, on the other hand, is culturally specific, dependent on time and place. “Etiquette is a set of rules,” Sperry continues.

“It changes with each era, style, demographic, etc. For example, 100 years ago people used to eat with their hands. Now, we eat with forks and knives, although in some cultures they still eat with their hands. But, nonetheless, these things will change.”

Manners, then, are basic social skills, such as holding the door

for someone or sharing toys with friends, while etiquette programs cover modern American norms, which can include making eye contact with others or shaking hands.

“All parents want their child to be successful. However, success is not only measured in academia, but through the way we teach our children to show courtesy, respect, honesty, and politeness,” says Dianne Marsch, founder and director of the Etiquette School of Manhattan.

Today’s Needs

Most parents who send their children to these programs have modest goals, seeking attainable improvements in their kids’ behavior. “Most of the time the parents just want the kids to listen a little bit more, to chew their food with their mouths closed—it’s mainly that. If these things are not addressed now, later on they will be harder to learn,” says Arely Mendoza-Cantos, founder and director of Always Gracious, a manners and etiquette school for Long Island youth. “I find that young kids are really eager to please their parents and show their manners.”

Many programs today include classes on digital etiquette—how to behave online, and how and when to put the device down and be present in the real world. “We have social media, and children especially are on computers all day and that sometimes is their preferred method of communication,” Meier says. “So, I found that they were losing really basic social skills.”

Despite the emphasis on technology and digital media, many of the schools find their more traditional classes, especially those covering mealtime behavior, are the most popular. Educating today’s youth on how to communicate clearly—face-to-face and through their screens—how to conduct themselves in professional

settings, and how to act at the dinner table are skills that can have an impact on their future and ultimately give them an advantage over those who have not been brushing up.

“It’s interesting, a kid in our very modern world who has great social skills and great manners and great etiquette really stands out, because for most kids the bar is so low when it comes to social skills,” says Faye de Muyshondt, founder and director of the Manhattan etiquette school Socialsklz:-). “Parents are always trying to give our kids the competitive edge, but really the competitive edge in the modern world is an awesome set of social skills and a great foundation of manners and etiquette in life, because most kids don’t have it.”

With the introduction of social media and the rise of technology, there is a newfound urgency to etiquette education. “Is it okay to text someone who’s more senior than you and use emojis? Is it okay to still be writing old-fashioned thank you letters? Just going over and making it a bit more relevant to today—that’s the whole point of it—for it to be practical etiquette that they use every day,” Meier says.

Despite our digital world’s dizzying pace of change, knowing how to chew your food politely or conduct yourself during an interview are skills that are ultimately timeless. On the other hand, maybe putting our pinkies up and carrying a handkerchief are, indeed, a bit outdated. The key is to find the balance, and today’s schools understand the difference.

“The more students we can teach all of these social, communication, and leadership skills to, it can change an entire generation,” Marsch says. “And I love every day that I can teach and make a difference in the life of someone.”

Megan Bailey is a former NYMetroParents intern.

WestchesterParent 21

FOOD & NUTRITION

Make Your Own Hot Cocoa

››

Three hot chocolate recipes that use favorite flavor combinations. By Chelsie Jangord

Nothing makes us enjoy winter more than coming in from the cold and enjoying a nice, steamy cup of hot cocoa. While these recipes call for specific vegan ingredients, feel free to use what you have in your cupboard.

Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa Mix

Yields: Approximately 3 cups of dry mix Ingredients Dandies Pumpkin Marshmallows 1 cup cocoa powder 1 bag of vegan chocolate chips, frozen 3 Tbsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 Tbsp. cornstarch ½ cup powdered sugar Instructions Add frozen chocolate chips (it is very important that they’ve been thoroughly frozen) to a food processor and blend into a fine powder. In a mixing bowl whisk together chocolate chip powder, cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, powdered sugar, and cornstarch. Fill a Mason jar with cocoa mix and top with Pumpkin Dandies.

Stays good for up to a month.

To make a cup of cocoa, bring 1½ cups of non-dairy milk to a boil, add 3-4 Tbsp. of mix, and stir. Reduce heat and let simmer.

Top with Pumpkin Dandies and enjoy!

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Peppermint Hot Cocoa

Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate

Ingredients 1 handful of Dandies Peppermint Marshmallows 4 Tbsp. cocoa powder 2 cups non-dairy milk 4 Tbsp. sugar ½ tsp. peppermint extract Crushed peppermint candies, optional garnish Melted chocolate, optional garnish

Ingredients 3 cups non-dairy milk 1/ 3 cup natural peanut butter ¼ cup sugar 2 Tbsp. cocoa powder ¼ cup chopped dark chocolate or vegan chocolate chips 1 tsp. vanilla Handful of Dandies Mini Marshmallows

Serves 2

Instructions In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and peppermint extract.

Whisk until all clumps have dissolved. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Optional: Dip the rim of a mug in melted chocolate, then into the crushed peppermint candies. Fill with hot cocoa, top with Peppermint Dandies Marshmallows, and enjoy!

Serves 2-3

Instructions In a saucepan over low heat, whisk together all the hot chocolate ingredients. Once thoroughly combined and heated, pour into mugs and top with Dandies. Up your game by drizzling on some additional peanut butter! The longer it sits the thicker it gets.

If you prefer a thinner hot chocolate, you can add more non-dairy milk to reach the desired consistency.

Chelsie Jangord is the in-house chef at Dandies Marshmallows.

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OUTINGS: Vanderbilt Museum

nymetroparents.com/outings

Mansion, Museum, and Planetarium 1

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Courtesy Vanderbilt Museum

William K. Vanderbilt II, who was an ocean and natural world enthusiast, posthumously helped to turn his sprawling estate into a museum for marine-life and natural history. ›› By Melissa A. Kay

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1 Winter is a festive time at the mansion. 2 The museum is home to numerous pieces of fine art. 3 The Vanderbilt’s Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium offers fun and educational programs for kids and adults. 4 William K. Vanderbilt II collected tools from expeditions around the world, which can be seen in exhibits in the museum. 5 The mansion is a “living museum,” which can be toured regularly.

Vanderbilt Museum is a wonderful educational experience and an interesting and exciting combination of mansion, marine and natural history museum, planetarium, and park.

Year-Round Fun

The mansion offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a renowned family from the Jazz Age through the end of World War II. Set atop 43 breathtaking acres, see the SpanishRevival style mansion and its distinctive architecture. Check out oceanic expeditions, global journeys, islands, marine life, bird and insect life, and more in the many exhibits at the museum. Specimens in the exhibits show the artisanal talents of Asian, Pacific, and African cultures including their artifacts, clothing, and utensils. The Reichert Planetarium is one of the most advanced in the country. Visitors can see seasonal shows and special features created for families and school audiences under the 60-foot dome.

The $4 million makeover has revealed new seating, a renovated lobby, and a gift shop.

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

December Highlights

Come to Vanderbilt to hear live Beatles music in the planetarium. On Dec. 11 from 7-8:30pm, The Liverpool Shuffle, a Long Island Beatles tribute band, will play songs beloved by generations under the dome. Tickets are $20 for adults in advance or $25 at the door. Kids ages 5-15 pay $15 and kids ages 5 and younger may attend for free. While the band plays, a montage will be projected into the planetarium’s dome, featuring 1960’s photos, news clippings, pop-culture iconic moments, and more. On various dates in December, see Laser Holidays, an all-ages program featuring laser lights and digital artwork set to holiday music. The kids will enjoy the music in an exquisite venue with family and friends.

Annual Events

Through Jan. 2, 2017, come to the planetarium to see Long Island Skies.

Following the program, and weather permitting, the planetarium staff will open

the Observatory. One World, One Sky depicts Sesame Street’s Elmo and Big Bird who discover that they see the same stars at their friend Hu Hu Zhu who lives in China. Night Sky, Live! features lectures by an astronomy educator who will use the planetarium’s Starball to show viewers what the Long Island night sky will look like on the very day they visit the venue.

Details

Address: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 15-minute drive from White Plains Hours: Through April 10, 2017: Museum: Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday, 124pm (the last mansion tour is at 4pm); planetarium: Tuesday, Friday-Sunday, see website for show times.

Admission: $7; $6 students with ID and seniors ages 62 and older; $3 children 12 and younger. Planetarium show and mansion tours: an additional $5 each per person.

For more information: 631-854-5579 or vanderbiltmuseum.org

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

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Ideas When You Need Them:

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

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Turn the page for details on Santa Visits the Rosen House (No. 2 on our list).

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DECEMBER CALENDAR

28 Editor’s Hot Tickets

33 On Screen

30 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!,

Animal Lovers

34 Holiday Fun

35 Must-Sees in NYC 31 Mini Musicians, Special Needs 36 Movers & Shakers,

Crafty Kids 32 Smarty Pants, Show Time!

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: JAMIE MCGILLIAN calendared@davlermedia.com

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EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the seven 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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‘The Nutcracker’ Young Dancers Performance Program

WHEN: Through Dec. 3: Saturdays, 11am-2pm WHERE: Isaac Young Middle School, 270 Centre Ave., New Rochelle AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Ajkun Ballet Theatre, a New York City-based professional ballet company, invites children to participate in The Nutcracker, with dance performance classes in either ballet or hip-hop, divided by age.

WHY WE LOVE IT: What a great opportunity!

WANT TO GO? $40. 646-368-9800. ajkunbt.org.

Santa Visits the Rosen House

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 10am WHERE: Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Jolly Saint Nick comes to Caramoor to fill the Rosen House with holiday cheer. The little ones will be in for an adventure with I Spy a Santa or Two in the Music Room, followed by a 30-minute concert of sing-alongs when Santa Claus will appear to delight the whole family.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This is a special event you won’t want to miss.

WANT TO GO? $18; $9 children. 914-232-1252. caramoor.org.

2

Evening Howl for Pups of All Ages

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WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 5-8:30pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: 5 and older

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

WHAT: Learn about the mythology, biology, and ecology of wolf families and discover why this is a magical time for packs in North America on a short sunset hike to howl with the wolves. All guests will be served weather-appropriate treats. Registration required.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A night with wolves around this time of year is thrilling for the whole family.

WANT TO GO? $16; $13 for children younger than 12. 914-7632373. nywolf.org.

4

Holiday Train Show

WHEN: Through Dec. 12: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate 25 years of the holiday train show.

Watch as enchanting model trains zip through a display of 150 landmarks—each created with bark, leaves, and other natural materials.

WHY WE LOVE IT: If your child likes trains, this is really cool!

WANT TO GO? $25; $10 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

‘A Celtic Christmas’

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 16, 8pm WHERE: Tarrytown Music Hall, 130 Main St., Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Cherish the Ladies return for its highly anticipated annual Christmas concert.

WHY WE LOVE IT: You don’t have to be Irish to enjoy this family tradition!

WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 844-483-9008. tarrytownmusichall.org.

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‘Annie’

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 18, 12pm WHERE: Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Road, Pleasantville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: In New York City during the Great Depression, a plucky, red-haired, girl named Annie is the voice of hope for her fellow orphans.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Annie is a classic Hollywood musical—a must-see on the big screen for kids and their parents!

WANT TO GO? $13; $7.50 for children 13 and younger. 914773-7663. burnsfilmcenter.org.

The New York City Ballet Performs George Balanchine’s ‘The Nutcracker’

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WHEN: Through Dec. 31: see website for show times WHERE: David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Tchaikovsky’s beloved melodies will transport you to a magical world in which mischievous mice besiege a battalion of soldiers, and an onstage blizzard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A New York holiday tradition—the original and the best!

WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 212-496-0600. nycballet.com. ››

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MARK YOUR CALENDERS: Kid's Drop Off dates: Dec 21-23 and 26-30th

Join us

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$15 Admission...Unlimited Fun! featuring

Friday, ~ovember 25 through Monday, January 2

The Hanneford Holiday Circus l The Santa Experience l RangersTown Rink Ice Skating l Holiday Rides l A Dazzling Light Show and more!

All included, and children age 5 and under are free.

Westchester’s Holiday Tradition!

www.WWinterWonderland.com 914-231-4600

WestchesterParent 29

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.

Building Bridges FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 1, 4pm WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 19 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua AGES: 9-12 WHAT: See how much weight these bridges can take.

WANT TO GO? 914-238-4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

Family Saturdays FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 1pm WHERE: Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Road, Pleasantville AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Each month features three brand-new hands-on activities for media makers of all ages to explore, discover, and create amazing projects from animation and sound editing to live green-screening and group storytelling projects.

WANT TO GO? 914-773-7663. burnsfilmcenter.org.

Wag Your Tale FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 3pm WHERE: Scarsdale Public Library, 54 Olmsted Road, Scarsdale AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Practice your reading skills with a story loving dog. Registration required online.

WANT TO GO? 914-722-1303. scarsdalelibrary.org.

Gingerbread House FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 19 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua AGES: 5-8, adult WHAT: Construct your framework at home and bring it in to decorate here.

WANT TO GO? 914-238-4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

Family Film FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 30, 3pm WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 19 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua AGES: All WHAT: Let the jungle come to life.

WANT TO GO? 914-238-4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

ANIMAL LOVERS Wild for Wolves: Homeschool Series

WHEN: Dec. 7-8, Wednesday-Thursday, 1pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: 7 and older WHAT: The WCC’s educational and interactive classes are designed specifically for home-school students and provide an in-depth study of wildlife biology and wolf ecology. The class on Wednesday is for ages 7-11, and the class on Thursday is for ages 12 and older.

WANT TO GO? $25. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Full Moon Wolf Walk

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 14, 6pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Celebrate the full moon with the Wolf Conservation Center’s moon-loving wolves and enjoy seasonal treats while you listen to the symphony of howls. Bring flashlights. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $20. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Wolves of North America

WHEN: Dec. 3-27, check website for times WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about the mythology, biology, and ecology of wolf families and discover why it’s a special time for packs in North America. Whether the wolves are living on the Arctic tundra or the high desert of the southwest, wolf families are out searching for prey as their pups prepare for their first winter season!

Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $14; $11 for children younger than 12. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Winter at Stone Barns FREE

WHEN: Dec. 2-30, Wednesday-Friday, 10am-4pm WHERE: Stone Barnes, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: All WHAT: During winter months, meet the sheep and tour the greenhouse. Come dressed for the farm and the weather, and wear closed-toe shoes.

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

The Butterfly Conservatory

WHEN: Dec. 10-May 28, 2017, daily, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: One of the museum’s most popular, annual events, this exhibit features up to 500 live, iridescent, tropical butterflies from the Americas, Africa, and Asia.

WANT TO GO? $27; $22 seniors and students; $16 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

MINI

MUSICIANS The Symphony of Westchester All Strings Concert

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 11, 3pm WHERE: Christopher J. Murphy Auditorium, Iona College, 715 North Ave., New Rochelle AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The Symphony of Westchester will feature oboist Katherine Needleman and violinist Alex Abayev.

WANT TO GO? $15-$50. 914-654-4926. thesymphonyofwestchester.org.

The New York Tenors

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 1pm and 8pm WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theater, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the holiday season in this evening of Christmas spirit with inspirational performances of newly created and timeless Christmas classics that will move the audience from the days of Irving Berlin to the millennium.

WANT TO GO? $50. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.

Petite Concert with Chi Chi Bestman FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 10:30am WHERE: Scarsdale Public Library, 54 Olmsted Road, Scarsdale AGES: 3-8

WHAT: See this child-friendly concert in the Children’s Room.

WANT TO GO? 914-722-1303. scarsdalelibrary.org.

Musical Tots FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 28, 11:15am WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Join Lori Cohen for an interactive program of music and movement.

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

Music for Aardvarks FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 29, 3pm WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 19 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Live music, dancing, and singing.

WANT TO GO? 914-238-4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS Accessibility Day

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 9am-5pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, Mathews Park, 303 West Ave., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: Reduced admission for special needs families.

WANT TO GO? $3. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org. ››

TAE KWON DO PRESCHOOL CLASSES FOR 3 TO 6 YEAR OLDS

REGISTER BY 12/12/16 AND

SAVE $25!

New members only.

YOUR CHILD WILL GAIN: CONFIDENCE SELF-ESTEEM FOCUS Morning, lunchtime & afternoon classes

Children have loads of fun in our preschool Tae Kwon Do program designed to increase and improve strength, balance, coordination, flexibility and agility.

250 Halstead Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528 • (914) 835-0665 • www.brucechung.com

For info or a visit: 914-835-2850 x109 www.jcch.org Ann Pardes, Director apardes@jcch.org Licensed & Registered

CALL FOR A FREE TRIAL CLASS.

Jewish Community Center of Harrison Early Childhood Center • Toddler to Pre-K • Modern Classrooms, Gym, Playground & Outdoor Classroom • A.M. & P.M. Programs Afternoon Enrichment • Summer Camp • Free 1-year Synagogue Membership with enrollment WestchesterParent 31

Book Babies FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 21, 11am WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-5, adult 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.

Kids Short Story Connection Workshops

WHEN: Through May 3, 2017: 10am-12pm WHERE: Greenburgh Town Hall, 177 Hillside Ave., Greenburgh AGES: 9-17 WHAT: An ongoing creative workshop for kids who love to write. In a round-table setting led by published authors and teachers, small groups of peers explore creativity, create new works, read works aloud, peer critique, and support each other’s growth.

WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 914-682-1574. greenburghartsandculture.org.

SMARTY PANTS Family Day: Dinosaurs!

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 1-4pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive, Greenwich, CT AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy fun, family activities inspired by the museum’s collections and exhibitions with a Digging Dinosaurs storytelling performance by a Diane Edgecomb at 2pm.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 students; free for children younger than 5.

203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Time for Two’s FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 5, 4pm WHERE: Scarsdale Public Library, 54 Olmsted Road, Scarsdale AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Tickets for this program will be handed out beginning at 3:30pm. Space is limited.

WANT TO GO? 914-722-1303. scarsdalelibrary.org.

Artie Bennett Holiday Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 17, 1pm WHERE: Barnes and Noble, 290 Baychester Ave., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Showcasing and reading from his four books, Artie Bennett enjoys talking about burps, belches, and more.

WANT TO GO? 718-862-3945. artiebennett.com.

Family Gallery Tours

WHEN: Dec. 4-18, Sundays, 11:30am-12:15pm WHERE: Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Dr., Greenwich, CT AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join a museum educator on an interactive, discussion-based tour of the museum’s current exhibitions.

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 children; free for children younger than 5.

203-869-0376. brucemuseum.org.

Caldecott Club FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 19, 7pm WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 19 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua AGES: 9-12 WHAT: The Caldecott Committee wants your kids’ opinions! Predict which one of your favorite books will win the Randolph Caldecott Medal.

WANT TO GO? 914-238-4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

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¡Cuba!

WHEN: Nov. 21-Aug. 13, 2017, daily, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: A new bilingual exhibit exploring Cuba like never before, in partnership with the Cuban National Museum of Natural History, featuring live animals and a chance to explore recreations of the island’s wetlands, as well as a typical Cuban street.

WANT TO GO? $27; $17 students and seniors; $12.50 children ages 2-12. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

SHOW TIME!

Westchester All Stars Christmas For Veterans Concert

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 2, 7:30pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Kick off your family’s holiday season by sharing this fifth annual night of amazing music and laughs, while supporting our true American heroes. The music will be a blend of Christmas and classic rock songs. All the proceeds raised will be distributed to veterans’ organizations.

WANT TO GO? $40 and up. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

‘The Nutcracker’ New Rochelle Suite

WHEN: Dec. 2-3, Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: Whitney Theater at New Rochelle High School, 265 Clove Road, New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: Begin the holiday season with Ajkun Ballet Theatre’s magical Nutcracker ballet, filled with the company’s dancers and children from the public New Rochelle school district.

WANT TO GO? $25. 646-368-9800. ajkunbt.org.

‘Let’s Hang On! Holiday Edition’

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 5, 1pm and 8pm WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theater, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford AGES: All WHAT: This high-energy production is sure to entertain Franki Valli fans.

WANT TO GO? $50. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.

‘Simply Diamond: Holiday Edition’

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 6, 1pm and 8pm WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theater, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford

AGES: All WHAT: A tribute to Neil Diamond starring Brian LaBlanc.

WANT TO GO? $50. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.

‘Looking At Christmas!’ FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 15, 8pm WHERE: Armonk Players, North Castle Public Library, 19 Whippoorwill Road, Armonk AGES: All WHAT: A failed writer and a struggling actress meet while looking at the famous holiday windows at Bloomingdale’s, Bergdorf ’s, Lord & Taylor’s, and Macy’s in this sweet, smart, and slightly twisted romantic comedy.

WANT TO GO? 914-592-2268. armonkplayers.org.

Fall 2016 After-School Showcase

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 15, 6:30pm WHERE: Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Come see Artistree Performing Arts students from the youngest to the oldest in their performance work from the fall semester.

WANT TO GO? $10 in advance; $15 at the door. 914-698-0098. artistreearts.com.

‘Unhappily Ever After’

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 17, 4:30pm WHERE: Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Are the stories in the fairy tales we grew up with always as happy as they seem, or do they have problems just like us? Join this group of fourth-seventh grade students as they perform their way through an original musical revue conceived and produced by the team of Artistree Performing Arts teachers.

WANT TO GO? $20; $10 for students in advance. 914-698-0098. artistreearts.com.

‘A Chorus Line’

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 17, 7:30pm WHERE: Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck AGES: 3 and older WHAT: A Chorus Line is a celebration of those unsung heroes of the american musical theatre: the chorus dancers—the valiant, overly dedicated, underpaid, highly trained performers who back up the star or stars, and often make them look even more talented than they are.

WANT TO GO? $25; $15 for students in advance. 914-698-0098. artistreearts.com.

‘Saturday Night Fever’

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’

WHEN: Dec. 23-29, Friday-Thursday, 12pm WHERE: Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Road, Pleasantville AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Bank manager George Bailey, facing financial ruin and possible jail time, contemplates jumping off a bridge on Christmas Eve. Intervening at the last second is Clarence, a bumbling guardian angel looking to get his wings.

WANT TO GO? $13; $7.50 for children 13 and younger. 914-773-7663. burnsfilmcenter.org.

‘Born to Be Wild’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: call, text, or go online for IMAX show times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: Academy Award-winner Morgan Freeman lends his voice to this film, which follows orphaned baby orangutans and elephants, and the people who rescue and raise them for eventual release back into the wild.

WANT TO GO? $9.50; $7 children ages 2-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘A Beautiful Planet’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: Made in cooperation with NASA, the film features a breathtaking portrait of Earth and the effects humanity has had on it over time, captured by the astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

WANT TO GO? $9.50; $7 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘National Parks Adventure’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: check the website for specific dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: Join world-class mountaineer Conrad Anker, photographer Max Lowe, and artist Rachel Pohl as they bike, hike, and climb their way across America’s most pristine parks.

WANT TO GO? $9.50; $7 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean’

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: see website for dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: The film introduces audiences to more than 30 species of animals—some no bigger than one inch long, but shown in exquisite detail on the aquarium’s six-story screen.

WANT TO GO? $11.50; $10.50 children ages 13-17; $9.50 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org. ››

WHEN: Through Jan. 29, 2017: Wednesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theatre, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A stage version of the hugely popular 1977 movie, jampacked with musical hits.

WANT TO GO? $50 show only. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.

ON SCREEN Short Films for Short People FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 27, 11am and 3:30pm WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 19 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Watch films based on beloved picture books.

WANT TO GO? 914-238-4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

WestchesterParent 33

the The Polar Express on the IMAX screen. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $17; $15 children ages 3-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance Presents ‘The Nutcracker’

WHEN: Dec. 16-18, Friday, 6pm; Saturday, 2pm and 6pm; Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: The Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E. Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CT AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Tchaikovsky’s soaring score, graceful ballerinas, wooden soldiers who come to life, and a bigger-than-life Christmas tree make the holidays bright.

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 children. 203-438-5795. ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

HOLIDAY FUN Annual Charitable Christmas Tree Sale and Alternative Christmas Market

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 7am-1pm WHERE: Huguenot Memorial Church, 901 Pelhamdale Ave., Pelham AGES: All WHAT: There will be lots of Fraser Fir trees in all sizes, as well as red and white poinsettias, pine roping, decorated and undecorated wreaths, and handmade gifts for sale. All proceeds from the sale will go directly to local charitable organizations.

WANT TO GO? 914-738-3488. huguenotchurch.org.

Holiday Decorating Party FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 11am WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Make a special ornament and help to trim the library’s holiday tree. There will be refreshments and lots of holiday cheer.

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

Annual Holiday Boutique FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 3, 11am-4pm WHERE: Katonah Elementary School, 106 Huntville Road, Katonah AGES: All WHAT: Come shop and browse through works of art and products by some of Westchester and beyond’s best artisans and vendors to kick off your holiday shopping, all while supporting local businesses.

WANT TO GO? 914-763-7700. kes.klschools.org.

Holiday Train Show

WHEN: Dec. 3-4, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Train lovers of all ages will love the HO gauge model trains on display among replicas of area landmarks, courtesy of Yonkers Model Railroad Club.

WANT TO GO? $10; $8 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Holiday Crafts FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 10, 11am WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Celebrate the holiday season with special Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa crafts.

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

Polar Express Pajama Parties

WHEN: Dec. 10-18, Saturday-Sunday, 9am WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Come in pajamas, enjoy a gourmet hot chocolate, then watch 34

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Annual Christmas Tree Sale

WHEN: Through Dec. 24: Thursday-Friday, 4-8pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-9pm WHERE: North White Plains Fire Company, 621 N. Broadway, North White Plains AGES: All WHAT: North White Plains Fire Company is hosting its annual Christmas tree sale, with all proceeds benefitting the fire department.

WANT TO GO? Free parking. 914-949-3575. ncsfd1.com.

Santa Dives with Sharks

WHEN: Dec. 1-31, Thursday and Saturday-Sunday, 12:15pm and 2:15pm WHERE: Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: Santa Claus will join The Maritime Aquarium’s dive team to demonstrate that sharks aren’t the blood-thirsty killers of myth.

WANT TO GO? $22.95; $20.95 children ages 13-17; $15.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

‘The Polar Express’

WHEN: Through Jan. 2, 2017: see the website for dates and times WHERE: IMAX Theater, Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, CT AGES: 3 and older WHAT: On Christmas Eve, a magical locomotive takes children on a magical trip to the North Pole to show them that Santa Claus really does exist.

WANT TO GO? $11.50; $10.50 children ages 13-17; $9.50 children ages 2-12. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

GingerBread Lane

WHEN: Through Jan. 15, 2017: Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5pm; SaturdaySunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens AGES: All WHAT: Marvel at the homemade gingerbread houses made entirely of edible gingerbread, royal icing, and candy. The winner of 2015 Guinness World Record for the largest gingerbread village is drafted, designed, baked, planned, built, and decorated by chef Jon Lovitch over the course of an entire year.

WANT TO GO? $15; $12 seniors and children ages 2-17. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection

WHEN: Through Feb. 26, 2017: Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, 10am6pm; Friday, 10am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: 5-17 WHAT: A series of vintage trains and buildings arrive at the museum, all from the renowned Jerni Collection of model trains and toys. The moving display will appeal to all age groups, showcasing toys from a bygone era.

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 seniors; $12 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children 4 and younger. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org. ››

CityBound

Jayme Thornton

Must-Sees in N Y C

Come Sing and Dance With Us! ★

Music Together® Classes Uke U. Classes

I’m With The Band

www.slsbmusic.com (914) 924-0995

John Minchillo / AP Images for Macy’s Inc

The best-selling, award-winning, Laurie Berkner Band rolls into town this month for one morning only! This special holiday concert will celebrate the season with a mix of traditional songs, Berkner classics, and new songs. Berkner is famous for being the Queen of kiddie rock and performing shows that little ones love, but don’t send the parents to sleep. Get your tickets early! Dec. 3; 11am.

Age: All. $37.50-$100. New York Society for Ethical Culture, 2 W. 64th St., Upper West Side. 212-799-5000. laurieberkner.com

The North Pole On 34th Street Macy’s Santaland starts just after Thanksgiving and sees our hero in a red suit turn the 8th floor of the famous store into a Christmassy North Pole. Complete with cheerful elves, animatronic displays, presents, and most importantly Santa himself! Book early for a shorter wait time; this is one of New York City’s most famous holiday treats. Don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa. For shorter wait times come early in the day and in the season, or book a Santaland Express Pass to skip the line.

Nov. 25-Dec. 24. 9am-9pm (with some exceptions, see website).

Age: All. Free to visit and photography package purchase is optional. Packages start at $20.99. Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., Midtown. 212-695-4400. macys.com/santaland.

WestchesterParent 35

LaPlacaCohen Publication: Insertion date: Size:

November 19 – January 16 NYC’s Favorite Train Show is New and Bigger Than Ever!

212-675-4106 NY METRO PARENTS DECEMBER 01, 2016 3.55" x 4.7" 4C MAG

HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW®

MOVERS & SHAKERS National Double Dutch League’s 2016 Double Dutch Holiday Classic

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 4, 1-4pm WHERE: The Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125th St., Harlem, Manhattan AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The Super Bowl of Double Dutch comes to Harlem for this annual event, now in its 25th year. This year’s participants come from Africa, Belgium, Dominican Republic, France, Japan, Trinidad, and the U.S. to compete for the grand prize.

WANT TO GO? $20. 800-653-8000. apollotheater.org.

Family Nature Walk Founding Sponsors VICTORIA and ROBERT ZOELLNER

Sponsors LuEsther T. Mertz Charitable Trust

Brooks Brothers

JUST 20 MINUTES ON METRO-NORTH FROM GRAND CENTRAL GET TICKETS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT NYBG’S ANNIVERSARY AT NYBG.ORG/125

NBG-0044-TrainShow_NyMetroParents_3.55x4.7_Dec01_v1.indd 1

11/9/16 11:13 AM

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 11, 12:30pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249 Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Join naturalist and educator Gabriel Willow on a familyfriendly walk through the gardens or woodlands, weather permitting.

WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Baby Yoga FREE

WHEN: Monday, Dec. 12, 9:30am WHERE: Scarsdale Public Library, 54 Olmsted Road, Scarsdale AGES: 3-5 WHAT: For babies who are not yet walking.

WANT TO GO? 914-722-1303. scarsdalelibrary.org.

Block Party FREE

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 30, 2pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Come for a program of free play with a new collection of wooden blocks.

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

CRAFTY KIDS Family Art Project: Seasons Greetings

WHEN: Dec. 3-4, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249 Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Get into the spirit of drawing by drafting flip-open frames and pop-out nature images reflecting early signs of winter. At 11:30am, enjoy a live-action drawing/storytelling by guest artist Jeff Hopkins.

WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Tiles of the Wild Celebration FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 8, 6pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill 36

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Westchester Ballet Company’s

AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrate the young artists who participated in Tiles of the Wild program. Come see the tiles they created of Hudson Valley animals.

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

Family Art Project: Snowflakes, Candles, and Stars

WHEN: Dec. 10-11, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249 Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Fire and ice don’t usually go together, but as the winter days get shorter and colder, celebrate both. Take a simple candlestick and use a colorful, clay-like wax to mix and mold an inventive image of nature onto a candle, or weave a string star or symmetrical button snowflake.

WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

The Nutcracker A magical journey and a delightful family tradition!

Westchester County Center White Plains

Dec. 16 - 18

$26 General $22 Children/Seniors (Ages 10 and under/60+) $22 Groups of 20+ $32 Day of Performance

Art Classes

WHEN: Dec. 1-15, Tuesday-Thursday, 4-5:30pm WHERE: MADE, 118 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Young artists can explore many different art mediums.

WANT TO GO? $28 per class. 917-733-3900. madeartstudio.com.

Art All Day FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 27, 10am-4pm WHERE: Chappaqua Library, 19 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua AGES: All WHAT: Craft materials available to make beautiful art projects.

WANT TO GO? 914-238-4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

Games Galore FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Come play board games during winter break.

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

Learn more at westchesterballet.org

Ask About Our Toddler Open Gym Programs!

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

Trains & Tracks FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 29, 2pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Love Thomas? Play with a huge collection of trains and tracks.

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

Science Inspires Art: Food

WHEN: Through Feb. 26, 2017: Monday-Friday, 2-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona, Queens AGES: All WHAT: This 18th art-science, juried exhibition includes more than two dozen images of art that reflect on the topic of food from all angles: from the historical record to the elite haute-cuisine of today.

WANT TO GO? $15; $12 children ages 2-17, students, and seniors.

718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Private Birthday Parties

Air castles • Obstacles Courses • Trampolines & more

All of our famous parties are private.

Our interactive staff will make your child’s party a very special one.

Gymnastics Classes Boys & Girls • Ages 20 months & up Beginner-Advanced • Competitive Teams Cheer Tumbling • Private lessons

Gymnastics Benefits Your Child's:

Skills to enhance other sports Strength • Flexibility & More!

Self Esteem • Coordination

Coming up next month: JAN. 14: Brady Rymer and The Little Band That Could at Emelin Theater, Mamaroneck JAN. 14: Satisfaction: The Rolling Stones Show at Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown THROUGHOUT JANUARY: All Aboard With Thomas and Friends at New York Botanical Garden, Bronx

One Odell Plaza, Yonkers/Hastings border Located At

(exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)

914-965-7676 gymcats.net

WestchesterParent 37

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

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Research by Jonathan Perry and Kathryn Sheridan

Bring holiday cheer and family bonding from the farm to your home by cutting your own Christmas tree this winter. Head to your local tree farm and spend a few fun hours seeking out your family’s perfect tree, then cut it yourself. You can also load up on some festive wreaths, garlands, and baked goods to make the holiday merry and bright! As always, call ahead of time to confirm hours and tree availability before planning your adventure. wreaths for sale; gift shop on premises.

Sled rides and pony rides on weekends from 11am-3pm (one free with each tree purchase). Santa and his elf onsite during all December weekends from 11am-4pm. Free candy canes and coloring books for kids.

Pine View Farm 575 Jackson Ave., New Windsor 845-564-4111; pineviewfarmny.com Dec. 10-18, Saturday-Sunday, 9am-4pm.

Five fields from which to choose a tree. Tools, baling, and assistance provided. Homemade wreaths and Christmas decorations for sale starting Dec. 3-4, 9am-4pm. Free candy canes and coloring books for kids.

Westchester County Stuart’s Farm 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs 914-245-2784; stuartsfarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 24, Wednesday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. Handsaws and baling available.

Wreaths, garland, and roping for sale.

Bakery is open with hot and cold cider, fruit pies, fresh apple cider doughnuts, jams, and jellies. Leashed dogs welcome.

Wilkens Fruit and Fir Farm 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights 914-245-5111; wilkensfarm.com Nov. 26 until they run out of trees, 10am4pm daily. Each family member gets a free cup of hot cider while you choose and cut your own tree. There is a farm market, bakery, and gift shop on-site with roping, wreaths, tree stands, and decorations for sale.

Putnam County Hardwick Tree Farm 213 Wood St., Mahopac

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December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

845-528-5814 Nov. 25-Dec. 18, Saturdays and Sundays, and Black Friday. 9am-dusk. Saws and baling provided. Free hot cider and cookies.

Orange County Emmerich Tree Farm 101 Sleepy Valley Road, Warwick 845-986-0151; emmerichtreefarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 20, weekends, 9am-5pm.

Free trimming, drilling, shaking, and baling available. Wagon rides to the fields, hot chocolate and cookies by the bonfire. Hot dogs by Pippy’s Food Truck. Wreaths for sale.

Graney Tree Farm 24 Lang Drive, Pine Bush 845-361-3022 Information not available at press time.

Manza Family Farm 730 Route 211, Montgomery 845-692-4364; manzafamilyfarm.net Nov. 25-Dec. 24, daily, 8am-5pm.

Roping available. Pre-cut trees and

Stone Oak Farm 207 Stony Bar Road, Slate Hill 845-355-4751 or 845-537-9060 (cell) stoneoaktreefarm.com Nov. 26-Dec. 24, weekends, 10am-dusk, other times by appointment. Barn with fireplace and free hot chocolate and candy canes for children. Fresh wreaths for sale.

Three types of trees: white spruce, blue spruce, and Canaan fir. All trees are $52.

Dogs are welcome.

Dutchess County Abel’s Trees 435 N. Clove Road, Verbank 845-677-6395; abelstrees.com Nov. 25-Dec. 25, weekends and Black Friday, 9am-sunset. Baling and handling assistance provided. Free hot chocolate and wagon rides to fields. Wreaths, tree stands, tree preservatives, and automatic treewatering devices also available. All size trees available, including trees taller than 12 feet.

Hot foods available for purchase. Cash and checks only. Saws available.

Battenfeld Christmas Tree Farm 856 Route 199, Red Hook 845-758-8018; christmastreefarm.us Nov. 25-Dec. 18 (subject to change), daily,

8am-4pm. Horse-drawn wagon rides. Handmade decorated wreaths for sale. Farm map and discount coupon available on the website.

Bilmar Nurseries 26 Bilmar Blvd. and off of Traver Road, Pleasant Valley 845-635-3206 bilmarnurseriesinc.com Nov. 26-Dec. 24, weekends, 9am-5pm, and weekdays, 10am5pm. Hay wagon rides to and from the fields on weekends.

Tools and baling provided.

Cut-your-own and pre-cut trees available. Hot food available for purchase on weekends.

Hahn Farm 1697 Salt Point Turnpike (Route 115), Salt Point 845-266-3680; hahnfarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 23, weekdays, 124pm, and weekends, 9:30am4pm. Pre-cut trees also available.

Rides to and from the fields provided (free on weekends).

Families receive a complimentary cup of hot chocolate with tree purchase (weekends only).

Plains View Farm 21 Freedom Road, Pleasant Valley

845-485-4277; plainsviewfarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 25, weekends, 9am-dusk. Hand saws available.

Tractor-pulled hay rides to the fields. New tree drilling machine and compatible stands offered so your tree will be ready to put in a stand at home. Four tree balers and “elves” to help you tie your tree to your car. Visit the “kitchen” for hot cocoa, mulled cider, and freshly baked cookies.

Primrose Hill Farm 203 Fiddlers Bridge Road, Staatsburg 845-889-4725 primrosehillfarm.com Nov. 25-Dec. 24, daily, 9am4pm. Handmade crafts, ornaments, tree stands, and tree accessories available for purchase, as well as wreaths, hot chocolate, brownies, and cookies in the Wreath Shop.

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

BJ’s Christmas Tree Farm 14 Evergreen Path, Pleasant Valley 845-635-1587 bjschristmastrees.com Nov. 25-Dec. 20, weekends, 9am-4pm. Offers a variety of tree types, as well as handmade wreaths and decorations.

Complimentary hot chocolate and cider. Will bale and drill your tree, and carry and tie it to your car.

Evergreen Farm 407 N. Tower Hill Road, Millbrook 845-677-3785 christmastreefarm.biz Nov. 25-Dec. 18, SaturdaySunday, 9:30am-4:30pm.

Handsaws and free baling available. Help available.

Fresh, handmade holiday wreaths are available for sale.

Free candy canes for kids and complimentary hot mulled cider. Hot chocolate for sale.

Fabulous Firs 664-702 Van Wagner Road, Poughkeepsie 845-590-3337 bilmarnurseriesinc.com Nov. 26-Dec. 24, MondayFriday, 12-4:30pm, and weekends, 9am-4:30pm. Hay wagon rides to and from the fields on weekends. Tools and baling provided. Cut-your-own trees only. Hot food available for purchase on weekends.

WestchesterParent 39

Kids Do the Weirdest Things

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Some of your child’s strangest behaviors and habits, explained by experts. By Laurie Sue Brockway

W

hen my son was in kindergarten, the teacher called me in to tell me the staff was taking up a collection so that I could buy him new clothing. He’d been wearing the same clothes every day for two weeks, and the staff assumed it was because I was not able to properly clothe him. It took everything for me not to burst out laughing as I explained that my son decided he would wear only black pants and a favorite black sweatshirt—so I’d bought him five pairs of the same pants and sweatshirts and washed his clothes constantly. But I told him that it was the same outfit every day. When the teacher asked if he had other clothes, he apparently said no.

Don’t get me started on the phase in which he insisted on wearing his Superman cape to school. Or the stuffed cat that had to be with us as all times. Kids do weird things. Really weird things. We asked experts to comment on some of the unusual traits we are bound to see as our kids grow.

Toddlers

Touching everything. If you feel like smudgy fingerprints cover every surface in your home, you’re not alone. “Many toddlers learn by touching,” says Mary Ellen Renna, M.D., a pediatrician in practice in Jericho and author of 10 Steps to Almost Perfect Parenting. “They are tactile learners. They need to touch, manipulate, open, tear, and pull items. They need to see what sounds they make, how they feel, what it tastes like.”

Eating and licking gross things. Toddlers do not discriminate 40

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when it comes to putting things in their mouths or up to their lips—dirt and snot included. “Children are inherently curious,” says Deena Blanchard, M.D., a Brooklyn- and Manhattan-based pediatric and postpartum depression expert with Premier Pediatrics and a mom of three boys. “As they grow and explore the world they will explore with all their senses. Early exploration is often oral in nature.” That’s why parents have to make sure there are no small pieces of things on the floor or within grasp. “The good news is that as children get older these habits fade,” Dr. Blanchard says.

Flushing stuff down the toilet. Remember that time when you couldn’t find a toy or your sunglasses, and then you heard a splash? “Kids are attracted to the toilet more between ages 18 months and 2½ years, when they are developing their bathroom skills—toilet training,” Dr. Renna says. “Once they develop the aversion to their waste products, they don’t play around the toilet as much.”

Taking over cellphones. Phones and other mobile devices are very attractive because they are filled with colors and sounds, Dr. Renna says. “They also have games and songs that are entertaining.” That doesn’t mean they should play with them. “I don’t believe kids should have access to a parent’s phone,” she says. “Too much potential danger there.”

Small Children

Sticking things up their noses—and elsewhere. Kids are usually led by the desire to see how things fit into other things.

“It is rare for children to put things in various places to act out or purposely annoy their parents,” Dr. Blanchard says.

“It is much more likely that they are curious about what it would feel like to put a pretzel in their nose, or if a bead could fit inside their ear.” She says to talk to children about how their bodily orifices work and explain, We only put food in our mouths and that it’s not healthy or safe for your body to put things in your nose or ear. Most children grow out of these behaviors by age 5 or 6, or after they have to see a doctor to have something removed from an ear or nose. “It’s not actually a fun experience and that works in our favor as parents,” Dr. Blanchard says.

Peeing on, or in, stuff. While dogs do it to mark their territory, kids do it to experiment and explore. “I know a 4-year-old who urinated in a backpack because he wanted to see what it felt like,” Dr. Blanchard says. To make sure it doesn’t happen again, focus on the positive and make it a teachable moment. “For example,” she says, “you can say, ‘I sometimes wonder what things may feel like too. It is important to only go pee in the potty or your pull up so we can keep the house clean.’” Also, tell children to check with you if they aren’t sure about whether they should do something.

Clinging to an object of affection. Linus isn’t the only one who likes his security blanket. “The object in some way represents the parent who the child does not want to separate from,” says Gail Saltz, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychiatry at The New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornel School of Medicine and host of “The Power of Different” podcast. “The parent can come and go, so the object provides comfort and permanence in staying with the child and being snuggled or held.” Termed a transitional object, it can be a blanket, a stuffed animal, or toy—something that can be carried around. “Parents know if you leave it at home or it gets lost, there is hell to pay in the form of tantrums or refusal to go anywhere without it,” Dr. Saltz says.

Making animal noises and sounds. There are a number of things that inspire kids to roar, purr, or make odd or loud noises. “It may be dramatic play, actually pretending to be an animal,” says Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, Ph.D., a New York City-based clinical psychologist. “It would not be unusual for a 3- or 4-year-old to pretend he or she was an animal until they tired of doing so.” It can also be to gain attention, or to make parents or peers laugh, she adds.

Inviting imaginary friends to dinner. Imaginary friends can be helpful to kids who have gone through trauma and can serve as allies to any child. “These friends are sometimes only in the child’s head but can sometimes be seen in great detail by the child,” Dr. Saltz says. “It may be one or multiple people, animals or fantasy beings and is often viewed in a real friend way, with discussion, shared feelings, and inclusion in family activities.” This is all a reflection of this child’s imagination and creativity, and is more likely to occur for a child who has enough unstructured play time to invent a friend, she says.

Stripping in public. “Young children can be unselfconscious about their bodies such that they may spontaneously strip off their clothing because they feel hot, or too restricted, or just like the feel of being naked—but obviously not when it’s cold out,” Dr. Tausig-Edwards says. “Sometimes, they may want to show the world their ‘big boy underpants’ or something they are proud of, which could also include genitalia if they feel this is continued on next page ››

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important.” She says this behavior usually stops due to caregiver reprimands and/or pressure from peers in social situations such as birthday parties or playdates. It should clear up completely during the first year of preschool if not before.

Drawing a masterpiece on a freshly painted wall. Remember that time when your kids unleashed their inner Michelangelos in unsolicited wall murals—furniture, upholstery, and other items?

“This behavior can be an expression of artistic impulses and/or a method of gaining our attention,” Dr. Tausig-Edwards says. Or kids just think it is a good idea at the time. She suggests hanging large sheets of butcher paper with masking or some other nonmarking tape on all four corners and then invite your children to draw only on the paper. “You will know fairly quickly whether the driver of their behavior is more of an artistic impulse or more of an attention-getting one.”

Decorating a sibling’s face with magic markers. They’re not trying to ruin their sister or brother’s good looks out of jealousy.

“It’s usually part of fun, curiosity, or an imagination game,” Dr. Blanchard says. “It’s rarely manipulative or purposefully intent on upsetting someone. Kids are fun, curious little beings. They aren’t yet fully aware of the consequences of their actions and likely have not thought it through.” While this may lead to some coloring on your baby, it also leads to a time where your child is super fun to play with and talk to, she says. “Their minds are open and the world is their oyster. Try to embrace this period and guide your child in making good choices.”

Older Kids

Refusing to talk about their day at school. Some kids just need downtime when they get home.

“As a mom of three boys, I totally understand the frustration of asking your child how was your day at school and getting back, ‘fine.’” Dr. Blanchard says. “After a long day at school kids may not be in the mood to talk or review their day.”

Try asking your child more specific questions instead of broad ones, such as: What did you eat for lunch? Or, What made you smile today?

Or wait until bedtime to chat, when kids are more relaxed.

Giving the pet a makeover. Some kids like to dress up pets like dolls and put barrettes on long-haired dogs, but Rachel Barrack, a veterinarian with Animal Acupuncture, has also seen cases of kids trying to add color. “Kids love to color with markers and crayons, but keep these away from your pets,” says Barrack, who practices in NYC. She says that body glitter and nail polish are also not safe.

Holding pets (or siblings) up like Simba. The sweet scene in the Lion King inspires kids to hold their pets up like a baby lion.

However, Barrack says, “this is not only scary for them, but you can drop them.” That goes for little sister or brother, too. “We don’t want to encourage children to do any weird things with pets,” Barrack says, suggesting pet-friendly alternative activities such as cuddling, teaching and learning new tricks, exercise, reading, and “pet-friendly” arts and crafts.

Playing with prickly things. Some foods need close parental supervision. Naresh C. Rao, D.O, FAOASM, of Sports Medicine at Chelsea, shares a cautionary tale about a 9-year-old sister and 42

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

6-year-old brother who saw a prickly pear in a grocery store. “The sister picked it up, and it felt fuzzy. She then told her brother to pick it up,” he says. “After both of them held it, they felt pain and told mom.” As it turned out, he says, “The slivers from the Prickly Pear had to be removed by a pediatric dermatologist because the spikes were so small that the doctor needed specialized equipment to have it removed from their skin.”

Creating obstacle courses. Dr. Rao, who lives in Scarsdale and was on Team USA’s sports medicine team for the 2016 Summer Olympics, has treated injuries relating to kids playing around in cars.

One 9-year-old boy decided to buckle all the seat belts in the back of mom’s minivan and swing through them like an obstacle course. “He then convinced his 11-year-old sister to join him,” Dr. Rao says. “She got through one but then got caught up in the next one. It was so tightly wrapped around her body that the latching mechanism would not release.” The seat belt needed to be cut to free her.

Tweens

Girls going gaga over male pop idols. It’s a rite of passage that harkens back beyond Elvis and the Beatles and the Back Street Boys.

“Teen idols are often fantasy romantic partners when tweens and teens first start to have crushes,” Dr. Saltz says. “It is a safe way to express and experience romantic and sexual feelings in an exciting way.” Teens and tweens feel close to the idol by going to concerts and playing their music, which explains why parents find themselves shelling out money for tickets, T-shirts, and posters. Because adolescent brains are more primed for risk taking and emotionality, a teen may go to great lengths to be close to and experience their idol, Dr. Saltz says.

Boys using potty humor.

“Boys love potty humor—farts and poop jokes never get old— and that’s why they will read a series like Captain Underpants over and over again,” says Hillary Tubin, former literacy educator and author of Boys and Books: What You Need to Know. “Boys also love to read in the weirdest positions: standing, squeezed into a tiny space, in a fort, on their backs with their arms raised and the book high in the air, and while moving around to name a few.” She says boys are the happiest when they get to read a book such as Captain Underpants squeezed into a tiny space made into a fort, with a flashlight in hand and their favorite pet close by.

Being tied to electronic devices. The romance begins early on and by the time kids have cellphones and iPads they might as well have been born with the device firmly attached to their hand. Texting is how teens communicate. “We live in a world of constant motion and as such they grab anything to keep constantly busy,” says technology expert Donna Conroy, co-founder of House Monkey. Always monitor use, she says, and get kids to take a time-out from devices as much as possible.

Laurie Sue Brockway is a journalist and author who has written extensively on love, romance, marriage, parenting, well-being, and emotional health. Her work has appeared in hundreds of print and online publications, including Woman’s Day, Everyday Health, and The Huffington Post.

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Courtesy MSG Entertainment

Courtesy Stepping Stones Museum for Children

Kids take in the view at Brooklyn Boulders.

Courtesy New York Hall of Science

Courtesy Billy Beez

Celebrate the holidays with the beloved Radio City Rockettes and witness the iconic kickline.

Courtesy Brooklyn Boulders

Stepping Stones Museum for Children’s Australia exhibit

See GingerBread Lane at the New York Hall of Science.

Billy Beez’s play space will keep the kids busy for hours.

A Staycation a Day

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Ideas for six fun-filled family days around our region. By Bethany Braun-Silva

T

here’s no better way to create lasting memories as a family than taking a trip together, especially around the holidays. As a mom of two young boys, however, I know how hard—and expensive—it can be to take a trip. The good news is you don’t need to get on an airplane or even stay at a hotel to have a memorable and exciting winter break. The New York metro area offers such a wealth of things to do with kids that there are virtually endless possibilities for a “vacation” right here at home. To help, we’ve created a list of six great local “staycation” itineraries—a week’s worth of kid-focused fun for you and your family to enjoy this holiday season.

Brooklyn

Check out Brooklyn Boulders, at which adults and kids can scale mountain-like fixtures in Boerum Hill. You can also experience a bit of history at the New York Transit Museum in Downtown Brooklyn. Got an animal-lover on your hands? Head to Coney Island and visit the New York Aquarium to marvel at the sea turtles, sharks, seals, and more.

Fairfield County, CT

Check out the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, which is home to a special “Animals Without Passports” exhibit through Jan. 2, 2017.

Stepping Stones Museum for Children, also in Norwalk, offers a great variety of activities, including Zumba® classes for kids and an Elf Workshop in which children can create their own Christmas tree ornament. Top off the day by catching a performance of The Nutcracker at The Palace in Stamford.

Manhattan

Start at everyone’s favorite, the American Museum of Natural History 44

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

on the Upper West Side. You can then take a short trip downtown— walk through Central Park if it’s not too cold—to experience the holiday fun at Rockefeller Center or take in the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Finish up with some grub at Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Midtown, since you’re sure to be hungry.

Queens

Head to Corona to experience GingerBread Lane at the New York Hall of Science. It won the Guinness World Record—in 2013, 2014, and 2015—for the largest gingerbread village. You can also see a family-friendly show at Flushing Town Hall or check out the annual Holiday Market there. Next, head over to Funtopia USA for some arcade fun in Middle Village.

Rockland County

Head to the Palisades Center in West Nyack for some serious family fun all in one place. Kids and adults can take on the ropes course at Palisades Climb Adventure. Afterward, parents can sit back while their kids jump and play at Billy Beez, an indoor play space. Younger

kids will enjoy the Ferris wheel and carousel just off the food court, while older ones can catch a movie or IMAX and go ice-skating.

Westchester

Have a museum-filled day at the Katonah Museum of Art in Katonah or the Westchester Children’s Museum in Rye (or both!).

Afterward, head over to Ridge Hill in Yonkers for an afternoon at Legoland Discovery Center, to experience the festive creations at Bricktacular. Walk just a block or two within Ridge Hill to find a bite to eat or be truly adventurous and try indoor skydiving at iFly.

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Find staycation ideas on Long Island at ››

nymetroparents.com/staycations.

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WestchesterParent 45

Winter Break Activities Amy Rosen Cooking by Design

917-903-1451 amyrosencookingbydesign.com amyrosencookingbydesign@gmail.com Is your child’s birthday during the winter break? Have a cooking party. From Cupcake Wars to Pizza Creations to chocolate melting, molding, and decorating, your kids will enjoy the fully hands-on experience. Amy Rosen is a fun, enthusiastic cooking coach who has been running parties for the past five years. She comes to your home with everything needed for the party. There is no downtime and the kids are active from start to finish. You can visit her website at amyrosencookingbydesign.com or call 917-903-1451.

Bach To Rock: Mamaroneck

130 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck 914-341-1457 mamaroneck.bachtorock.com mamaroneck@bachtorock.com Bach To Rock is the music school for students of all ages. B2R’s unique method is based on the knowledge that students learn best when they join together to play the music they like most!

B2R Winter Break Camp runs from Dec. 26-Jan. 1 and is an opportunity for your budding rock star to learn music in a group setting and record a demo in B2R Studios! Whether they join a band in our Rock Band Camp or are at the beginning of their musical journey in Rock City World Tour, we have a camp for you!

Bruce Chung Tae Kwon Do

250 Halstead Ave., Harrison 914-835-0665 brucechung.com taekwondo@brucechung.com Grand Master Bruce Chung, Master Susan Chung, and their staff of certified adult black belt instructors bring 24 years of experience and knowledge to their renowned Children’s Tae Kwon Do program. Their Gym-Mini-Kick-It® program includes mommy-andme classes for ages 14-36 months as well as their innovative 2-hour “Kickstart” drop-off program for ages 2½-4½, designed to enhance children’s preschool or kindergarten experience. In addition to children’s classes, they also offer

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adult fitness classes, including cardio kickboxing, boxing and strength training, and taekwondo classes and private lessons for adults of all levels.

Cross County Shopping Center

8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers 914-968-9570; crosscountycenter.com At Cross County Shopping Center you’ll find a cross between happy and holidays all season long with festive, traditional events; great sales; extended shopping hours; and best of all, free parking! Shop great stores such as Michael Kors, Zara, and Skechers, and try out delicious eateries such as Shake Shack, Starbucks, and Jamba Juice! Don’t forget to book an overnight stay at the Hyatt Place Hotel for a weekend getaway (plus, it’s great for out-of-town visitors). A trip to see Santa for photos and to share wishes will wrap up your visit to Cross County Shopping Center!

Dave and Buster’s Pelham Manor

881 Pelham Parkway, Pelham Manor 914-380-8506 daveandbusters.com/specialevents beatriz_peneda@daveandbusters.com The best celebrations happen at Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor.

From our fully customizable food and drink menu to our Million Dollar Midway, we’ve got everything you need to throw a party unlike any other! Let us help you get the party started! Dave & Buster’s can show your event the best mix of food, drinks, games, and fun. We offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner packages that include a meal, unlimited beverages, and a Power Card for game play in our Million Dollar Midway.

Funfuzion at New Roc City

29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle Party Central: 914-637-7575, option 1 funfuziononline.com Enjoy a continental breakfast with us and meet Santa and his elves on Dec. 17 from 9:30–11:30am!

Take selfies with Santa and his elves while you boogie down the Cha-Cha Slide and limbo below the Limbo Stick. We can also put together a unique party experience for your December birthday child and friends. We have Lazer Tag,

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

bowling, miniature golf, and arcade fun throughout the holiday season.

Girl AGain

4 Martine Ave., White Plains 914-358-1460 girlagain.com girlagain@yesshecaninc.org Girl AGain is a resale boutique for all things American Girl with a large selection of dolls: historical characters, just-like-you, and Girl of the Year dolls, plus outfits, accessories, and furniture. All merchandise has been prepared to nearly new condition. Books include historical character stories and advice such as The Care and Keeping of You, and The Ultimate Guild to American Girl. Girl AGain offers craft events for girls ages 7 and older on weekends throughout the year. Register at girlagain.com/events. Holiday Activity: Thursday, Dec. 29, drop in anytime to make a doll-sized T-shirt. Fee: $10.

a morning of nonstop, action-packed fun! Your child will run, jump, tumble, balance, stretch, sing, create, move, and groove, all under the supervision and care of our well-trained and certified staff. Come experience the joys of gymnastics, music, and art. It’s a mix your child is sure to love. Join us in our 35th year!

The Little Gym

1 Odell Plaza at Equalize Fitness, Yonkers 914-965-7676; gymcats.net GymCats Gymnastics offers many fun-filled, high-energy Holiday Camps throughout the year.

These camps are taught by the same dedicated instructors who teach our programs year-round.

The instructors will guide your children through many varied gymnastics activities, while building strength, flexibility, coordination, and agility. Our goal at GymCats Gymnastics is to have each child leave here feeling better about themselves than when they arrived.

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 This holiday season, busy parents can sign up their spirited little ones for holiday camp days at The Little Gym. Each camp is centered around an interactive and fun theme such as Winter Extravaganza Slumber Party, Ice Cave Pirate Adventure, and Fun with Winter Sports and Speed Skating. Kids have fun playing while building confidence and developing motor skills under the supervision of trained professionals who facilitate in a friendly, non-competitive environment.

Each camp day is 3 hours, designed for ages 3-8, and includes obstacle courses, group activities, movement challenges, arts and crafts, and snacks.

House of Sports Westchester

Pine Brook Fitness

GymCats Gymnastics and Birthday Party Center

1 Elm St., Ardsley 914-479-5419; houseofsportsny.com School is out, so camp is in at the House of Sports in Ardsley! Each day from Dec. 26-30, House of Sports will offer camp for kids ages 3 through high school.

Sports camps include basketball, soccer, lacrosse, baseball, volleyball, and multi-sport. Call today at 914-479-5419 or log on to houseofsportsny.com.

Jodi’s Gym

25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 244 E. 84th St., Manhattan 212-772-7633; jodisgym.com Jodi’s Gym December camp is

130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-636-1019 pinebrookfitness.com We offer a variety of programs for children and adults, hold vacation camps, and provide an exciting venue for birthday parties. Pine Brook Fitness, awarded as Westchester’s Best Multi-Sport Family Fitness Facility, provides a fitness experience for you and your family to have fun, improve your skills, and test your limits in a safe, friendly, and rewarding atmosphere. We are home to the New Rochelle Racquet Club, The Rock Club, and The Studios, offering tennis, rock climbing,

specialized fitness classes, and personal training.

PlayLand Ice Casino

100 Playland Parkway, Rye 914-481-5941; playlandice.com Kids and families love PlayLand Ice in Rye. Operating year-round, PlayLand Ice offers learn-to-skate and learn-to-play hockey classes, public ice-skating, figure skating, clinics, and camps for all ages and abilities. Birthday parties are always a huge hit at PlayLand Ice and feature private rooms, private ice, party helper, dance and black lights, and music. Visit us online for more information.

Rockin’ Jump: Ridge Hill

241 Market St., Yonkers 914-510-9119 ridgehill.rockinjump.com ridgehill-ny@rockinjump.com Rockin’ Jump: Mount Kisco 333 N. Bedford Road, Mount Kisco 914-743-5730; mtk.rockinjump.com info@mtk.rockinjump.com Bring your family to Rockin’ Jump, the all-new ultimate trampoline park in Ridge Hill Mall!

It features a huge rock climbing wall, dodgeball arenas, slam-dunk zones, spacious trampolines, and more! Kids and adults are welcome to jump! Visit ridgehill. rockinjump.com for our special holiday jump times and to book your jump times in advance!

Smugglers’ Notch Resort

4323 Vermont Route 108 South, Jeffersonville, VT 888-393-9097; smuggs.com Find your family’s perfect winter vacation at Smugglers’ Notch Vermont. With 1,000 acres of mountain terrain, you’ll find something for everyone. Three inter-connected mountains offer terrain to meet all types of skiers and riders. Kids at Smugglers’, as well as adults, are treated to the best ski and snowboard programs in the East. With on-hill activities focused on fun, learning has never been so appealing, especially for the No. 1 Kid Friendly Resort in the Eastern U.S. and Canada as voted by the readers of SKI Magazine. Celebrating 60 years of family fun!

Sound Shore Indoor Tennis

303 Boston Post Road, Port Chester 914-939-1300 soundshoreindoortennis.com It’s the holidays! Enjoy some camaraderie, hone your skills, tone your body, and beat the blues.

Sound Shore Indoor Tennis is the

place for you! Adults can attend drop-in clinics, Cardio Boot Camp, or—for new players—Starter Tennis. Juniors can play matches arranged for you on Sundays between 3:30-5:30pm. Sign up now for Women’s 2.5-4.0 Holiday Camp, offered Dec. 27-29 from 9:30-11:30am, Junior Tennis and HPTAcademy Camp from 1-4pm.

Registration is ongoing for winter programs for all ages. Let us light up your life! 914-939-1300; soundshoreindoortennis.com.

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yrs. of Fun, Frien ds, & Fitness !

Great Perks For Members

Sportime USA

380 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-2111 x2 sportimeusa.com Sportime USA’s Mini Camp offers a full day of fun activities for ages 5-12. Our mini camp includes unlimited play on all attractions, movie time, crafts, a morning snack, lunch, and an afternoon snack. We are the only ones in the area to offer a full day program from 9am-6pm. Our mini camps fill up, so make sure to call in advance.

Starlight Starbright Music

78 Garth Road, Scarsdale 914-924-0995; slsbmusic.com jackie@slsbmusic.com Come join us for a demo class during the winter break at Starlight Starbright Music, where we offer the Music Together® program for children ages newborn to 5—and the grownups who love them®! We offer Music Together Mixed-Age and Babies classes, as well as Guitar for Grownups for the adults in our classes. We also offer Uke U., a parent-child beginner ukulele program for children ages 3-6 (not a Music Together offering). For information and to register for classes and free demos, please visit slsbmusic.com or call 914-924-0995.

V is it O u r To ta Awe s o mll y e Ne w ly Re n ova te Fa c il ity d !

For Kids 9 mos to 12 yrs

Nothing Else Even Comes Close!

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

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

Tennis for All Ages!

Juniors and Adults Recreational • Instructional • Competitive Lessons • Groups • Clinics • Court Rentals Birthday Parties & More...

Specials: Holiday Vacation Camps

Westchester Skating Academy (WSA)

91 Fairview Park Drive (Route 9A), Elmsford 914-347-8232 skatewsa.com Westchester Skating Academy is a year-round, twin-rink ice-skating facility offering recreational, hockey, and figure skating for all ages and abilities. WSA programs include public skating, learnto-skate classes, group events, birthday parties, summer and holiday camps and clinics, adult and youth hockey leagues, and instruction. Visit us online for more information.

Cooking Party for Kids ••••••••••••••••

Cupcake Wars • Pretzel Creations Candy Sushi • Pizza Creations Chocolate melting/molding & decorating Book a party at 917-903-1451

Amy Rosen amyrosencookingbydesign@gmail.com amyrosencookingbydesign.com Cooking Coach cookingcoach_amyr WestchesterParent 47

Meet the Health Care

PROFESSIONAL To be in this section, call 914-379-0200 or email nympads@davlermedia.com

Join

• Land Sports • Fine & Performing Arts • Pools & Lakes • Adventure Course

Caring for Kids Dr. Ivis Getz 140 Lockwood Ave., Suite 315, New Rochelle 914-355-2265 Get advance notice on activities, caringpediatricdentistry.com participate in group discussions caringpediatricdentistry@gmail.com

NYMetroParents

For Children 3 to 13 Call 914-367-1936 To schedule a tour, email gordon@breezemont.com

and receive special notices.

THE EXPERIENCE THAT LASTS A LIFETIME www.breezemont.com

Dr. Ivis Getz, a board-certified pediatric dentist, is committed to providing the highest quality dental care to infants, children, adolescents, and those with special needs. Dr. Getz recognizes that each child is a unique individual who deserves compassion and respect, which is evident in her friendly www.facebook.com/nymetroparents 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 ACTIVITIES EVENTS MORE and Saturday appointments available.

Putnam Orthodontics 667 Stoneleigh Ave., Suite 207, Carmel 845-459-8500 325 South Highland Ave., Briarcliff Manor 914-432-7625 putnamorthodontics.co Get advancem notice on activities,

Join

NYMetroParents

4 Martine Ave. White Plains 914-358-1460 GirlAGain.com

Wed – Fri 11-5 Sat 10-5, Sun 11-4

Historical dolls Girl of the year Just like you dolls Outfits Furniture Accessories Books Workshops

Dr. Satish Pai has been practicing, and teaching orthodontics at Columbia University, for 14 years. Dr. Pai specializes in Invisalign®, and Damon® braces for children, teens, and adults. Dr. Pai is a clinical assistant professor in the Division of Orthodontics at Columbia University, College of Dental Medicine. Dr Pai completed a master of science (M.S.) and doctor of dental surgery (D.D.S.) from Columbia University, College of Dental Medicine.

participate in group discussions and receive special notices.

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents ACTIVITIES

FALL PROGRAM

Family Owned & Operated Since 1973 Experienced Teachers

• Serving Children 2 months–14 years

MORE

Join

NYMetroParents

• Flexible Schedules • Beautiful Campus Setting

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

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

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

• Field Trips • Stimulating Environment

48

EVENTS

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

OPEN HOUSES 2016

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

Tilly...

A Deer’s Tale (BASED ON A TRUE STORY)

Green Meadow Waldorf School

307 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-356-2514 gmws.org/admissionseventschedule Upcoming events include weekly Tea & Play for nursery and kindergarten parents, monthly Introductory Sessions, and Introduction to the Lower School in January.

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:

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.

www.tillyadeerstale.com

LOOKING FOR

Thornton-Donovan School

100 Overlook Circle, New Rochelle 914-632-8836 td.edu Join us for Thornton-Donovan School’s open house on Dec. 11 from 2-4pm.

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE HAIR CUTS

The salon just for your kids where the haircuts are cool and fun rules!

Haircuts for kids in Fun Chairs!

Cartoons! Xbox!

GREAT DEALS?

PARTY PLANNER

Stu Ted NEW ffi dy ! ng B Pa ear rti es

FOR ALL YOUR PARTY NEEDS

10th HAIRCUT FREE!!

MAGIC CUTS FOR KIDS & THE WHOLE FAMILY Call Sonia 914.813.8142 159 E. Main Street New Rochelle, NY 10801

Tues-Fri 10-6pm c Sat 8-4pm c Sun 8-3pm

We bring the party to you! · Jumping Houses · Slides · Popcorn Machines · Cotton Candy · Party Balloons · BBQs · Face Painting · High Peak Tents · Tables, Chairs & Linens

347.326.5567 amandabearpartyrental.com

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

Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more.

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

100 + CHARACTERS, INTERACTIVE DJ’S FROZEN & NEW KIDS BAND ‘THE HONEY BEATS’ PHOTO BOOTHS NEW! ROBOTIC ANIMALS (ROBO ZOO) CARNIVALS INFLATABLES CHARACTER SHOWS FAIRYTALE PRINCESS PARTIES THEME PARTIES SHOWS & ATTRACTIONS

COMPLETE CARNIVAL & PARTY PLANNING

To Advertise Call 914-397-0200

914-235-7100 www.davescast.com

WestchesterParent 49

AD INDEX

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

ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS

JCC of Harrison Early Childhood Center..................................... 31

MVP Health Care......................................................................... 17

Jodi’s Gym - Westchester............................................................ 47

Kickstart Presented by Bruce Chung........................................... 23

Putnam Orthodontics................................................................... 48

Music Conservatory of Westchester............................................ 41 AUTO

New 42nd Street.......................................................................... 26

MUSIC

Rivera Toyota............................................................................... 13

On Track Sport Center................................................................. 45

Hoff-Barthelson Music School..................................................... 11

Pinebrook Fitness........................................................................ 26

Music Conservatory of Westchester............................................ 41

BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES

PlayLand Ice Casino...................................................................... 9

Starlight Starbright Music............................................................ 35

Amy Rosen Cooking by Design................................................... 47

Starlight Starbright Music............................................................ 35

Bach to Rock - Westchester........................................................ 43 Blue Moon Mexican Café ........................................................... 45 Bruce Chung’s Tae Kwon Do Martial Arts.................................... 31 Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor.................................................. 45 FunFuzion.................................................................................... 21

Studio B Dance............................................................................ 23

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING

Westchester Skate Academy......................................................... 9

New 42nd Street.......................................................................... 26 Play Group Theatre..................................................................... 45

DANCE Studio B Dance............................................................................ 23

PLAY SPACES FunFuzion.................................................................................... 21

Gym Cats Gymnastics................................................................. 37

EDUCATION

House of Sports........................................................................... 13

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

RESTAURANT / FOOD SERVICES

Jodi’s Gym - Westchester............................................................ 47

Hudson Country Montessori........................................................ 25

Blue Moon Mexican Café ........................................................... 45

Little Gym - Westchester............................................................... 7

JCC of Harrison Early Childhood Center..................................... 31

PlayLand Ice Casino...................................................................... 9

Musical Munchkins...................................................................... 43

RETAIL

Rockin’ Jump - Mount Kisco........................................................ 25

Thornton Donovan School............................................................. 3

Cross County Shopping Center................................................... 52

Sound Shore Indoor Tennis......................................................... 47 Sportime USA Inc........................................................................ 29 Westchester Parent Party Planner.............................................. 49 Westchester Skate Academy......................................................... 9 Yes She Can Inc. / Girl AGain .................................................... 48

Pedigree Ski Shop....................................................................... 43 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS

Tilly…A Deer’s Tale...................................................................... 49

Cross County Shopping Center................................................... 52

Westchester’s Ridge Hill................................................................ 2

Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor.................................................. 45

Whimsies Dollhouse Shop........................................................... 41

FunFuzion.................................................................................... 21

Yes She Can Inc. / Girl Again ..................................................... 48

New York Botanical Garden......................................................... 36

CAMPS

Nutcracker Ballet......................................................................... 37

Ann & Andy.................................................................................. 48

Ring in the New Year at New Roc City........................................ 23

Bach to Rock - Westchester........................................................ 43

Rockin’ Jump - Mount Kisco........................................................ 25

Breezemont Day Camp............................................................... 48

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

Bruce Chung’s Tae Kwon Do Martial Arts.................................... 31

Sportime USA Inc........................................................................ 29

Camp Ramaquois........................................................................ 35

TMK Sports & Entertainment....................................................... 18

Hudson Country Montessori........................................................ 25

Westchester Parks Foundation................................................... 29

JCC of Harrison Early Childhood Center..................................... 31

Whimsies Dollhouse Shop........................................................... 41

Jodi’s Gym - Westchester............................................................ 47

SPECIAL EVENTS Cross County Shopping Center................................................... 52 Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor.................................................. 45 Nutcracker Ballet......................................................................... 37 Ring in the New Year at New Roc City........................................ 23 TMK Sports & Entertainment....................................................... 18 Westchester’s Ridge Hill................................................................ 2 SPECIAL NEEDS Dicker Reading Method................................................................. 5

Little Gym - Westchester............................................................... 7

FAMILY TRAVEL

Pinebrook Fitness........................................................................ 26

Acura of Westchester.................................................................. 13

Studio B Dance............................................................................ 23

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

Thornton Donovan School............................................................. 3

Easter Seals Project Explore....................................................... 36 SPORTS Bruce Chung’s Tae Kwon Do Martial Arts.................................... 31

FITNESS

Camp Ramaquois........................................................................ 35

CHILD CARE / DAY CARE

Bruce Chung’s Tae Kwon Do Martial Arts.................................... 31

House of Sports........................................................................... 13

Ann & Andy.................................................................................. 48

Jodi’s Gym - Westchester............................................................ 47

On Track Sport Center................................................................. 45

Kickstart Presented by Bruce Chung........................................... 23

Kickstart Presented by Bruce Chung........................................... 23

Pinebrook Fitness........................................................................ 26

Musical Munchkins...................................................................... 43

Sound Shore Indoor Tennis......................................................... 47

Rockin’ Jump - Mount Kisco........................................................ 25

CLASSES

GYMNASTICS

Amy Rosen Cooking by Design................................................... 47

GymCats Gymnastics.................................................................. 37

Sound Shore Indoor Tennis......................................................... 47

Bach to Rock - Westchester........................................................ 43

THEATER New 42nd Street.......................................................................... 26

Easter Seals Project Explore....................................................... 36

HEALTH

GymCats Gymnastics.................................................................. 37

Affinity Health Plan...................................................................... 15

Hoff-Barthelson Music School..................................................... 11

Caring for Kids Pediatric Dentistry............................................... 48

TUTORS

House of Sports........................................................................... 13

Fidelis Care New York................................................................. 11

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

50

December 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Play Group Theatre..................................................................... 45

BAR/BAT MITZVAHS ❖ SWEET SIXTEENS ❖ WEDDINGS

NOVEMBER 20

JANUARY 29

TARRYTOWN | 12-4PM Westchester Marriott 670 White Plains Road

PARK RIDGE, NJ | 12-4PM Park Ridge Marriott 300 Brae Boulevard

FREE TICKET With Online Registration & be entered to win a FitBit

CelebrateShowcase.com $10 at the door

WestchesterParent 51

WISHES& WONDER VISIT WITH SANTA FOR PHOTOS & WISHES! NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 24TH Located near the Gap. Each child visiting Santa receives a FREE gift.

Make a reservation to see Santa at celebrateyourholiday.com/Reservations/mall/cross-county

F O L LOW U S! CROSSCOUN TYCENT ER.COM