Westchester Parent September 2016 by City Guide NY

WestchesterParent SEPTEMBER 2016

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Calm the Cafeteria Chaos

Kids can eat healthy and socialize, too. PLUS: Your Back-to-School Resource Guide

All About Gap Years

Why many grads are waiting before starting college

Should Kids Play Contact Sports? Weighing the risk of concussions

WHERE TO PICK APPLES

â&#x20AC;¢

MEDICAL MARIJUANA FOR SICK KIDS?

AFTERSCHOOL SCIENCE PROGRAMS

For Middle School Grades 5 - 8 PULLBACK CAR ENGINEERING Student engineers will learn about simple machines and their real-world applications. Teams of two students will build a pullback car and then run a series of experiments to test various engineering theories. Oct. 11 or Nov. 15, 3:45-5:45 pm VERTICAL ACCESS WIND TURBINE An overview of how wind is formed, captured, and transformed into electrical power is presented. Wind turbines are explored and reinforced when students build and then take home their very own Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) model. Oct. 13 or Nov. 17, 3:45-5:45 pm

914-606-7400 â&#x2013;ª sunywcc.edu/ossining Arcadian Shopping Center, Route 9 Ossining, NY

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

“GOING TO SCHOOL HAS NEVER

BEEN THIS MUCH

FUN!

”

DAILY NEWS

WestchesterParent

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

September 2016 ›› Features 18 Cute Kids Meet the winner of our cover contest, and the rest of the finalists 20 Filling the Gap Taking a year off between high school and college can set teens up for a lifetime of success 24 Calming the Chaos of the Cafeteria How to get kids to eat a healthy lunch while chatting with friends 28 Should Your Kid Play Contact Sports? New policies are being put into place to reduce the risk of concussions in children

64 Healing Powers What it’s like to provide your child with medical marijuana in New York

Connections 6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 14 Voices: Learning to let go 16 NYMP Q&A: Walker Lamond shares ‘pearls of wisdom’ for fatherhood

Fun & Activities 12 32 35 50

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

DIY Corner: Sail boat for imaginary play Outing: New York City Fire Museum Family Activities Calendar Where-To Guide: Pick Your Own Apples

Directories

52 62 68 68 69 70

Back-to-School Resources Private Schools 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 ›› 20 All About Gap Years 24 Calm the Cafeteria Chaos 28 Should Kids Play Contact Sports facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

50 Where to Pick Apples

64 Medical Marijuana for Sick Kids?

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

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SEPTEMBER 2016 • Vol.16 • No.1

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITOR’S NOTE

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress

New Beginnings, Emotional Transitions

ike many parents, I feel unprepared for a new school year to begin, and less than eager to restart the cycle of lunch prep and hustling out the door every morning. Really, though, this feeling is less about the hassle and more about being forced to confront the very clear fact that my babies are no longer babies. Our youngest, not yet out of diapers and still sleeping in a crib, begins nursery school this month, while my middle daughter will be in kindergarten, starting the transition away from play-based learning to more traditional schooling. And my oldest, still so young in my mind, starts fourth grade, when, I am told, the work gets more intense and the pace quicker. Sunrise, sunset, indeed; those years certainly do swiftly fly. And so I look to parents who have older kids with a mix of awe and curiosity. How do we encourage our not-so-little ones to grow into independent people and not inadvertently stand in their way? Dana Greenberg offers her own perspective on letting go of her middle-school-age daughter and teaching her to navigate NYC streets by herself (p. 14). Meanwhile, any of you whose kids are entering their senior year of high school are contemplating a whole new level of letting go. Decisions about next year will likely consume much of your attention the next few months. But even as today’s seniors apply to and choose their colleges, many will be opting to delay actually starting that school for one year. Find out why so many grads are taking a so-called gap year, what they’re doing during that time—and why many experts are encouraging it (p. 20). Meanwhile, my family—and many of yours, I am sure—will be focused on more mundane matters, such as the aforementioned lunch prep. Despite the care I give to my kids’ meals, I’ve found pieces of my daughters’ lunches coming home uneaten, not because they weren’t hungry, but because they didn’t have time to finish. Besides eating, lunch provides valuable, much-needed social time for our kids, and we’ve got tips on how to ensure your kids can eat and gab during their fleeting cafeteria moments (p. 24). Lastly, we tackle a difficult, potentially controversial topic. Here in New York, medicinal cannabis—marijuana—has been legal since the start of 2016, and among the patients to whom it’s been prescribed are some children who suffer from debilitating illnesses. We speak with one mom whose daughter’s quality of life has vastly improved because of the availability of medicinal marijuana. And we explain the debate among experts about whether it’s a good idea to treat ill kids with it (p. 64). May none of us need such remedies, and may everyone have a happy and smooth start to the 2016-2017 school year!

DEPUTY EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling 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: Megan Bailey, Lauren Diaz, Melissa Wickes

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 MANAGERS: Alexis Brower, Shaquon Cates

PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Anthony Diaz CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jiyon Son DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds GRAPHIC ARTIST: Oscar Osario

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

Michael Kress Editorial Director

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

A NYMetroParents Event

Join Us for a Day of Fun! You are invinted to a day of kid-focused fun, during which parents can accomplish all their planning for the year ahead. LI FamFest will be held Saturday, Sept. 17, from 10am-3pm at Long Island University’s Pratt Recreational Center, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville, Long Island. While parents explore more than 50 exhibitors and meet experts, their kids will be able to participate in activities such as a live reptile and wildlife show, face painting and balloon making, hip-hop dance movement, a rope obstacle course, candy making, and much more. Visit lifamfest.com for more information and to register! 6

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

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. Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

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Kumon is the smartest extracurricular activity you can give your kids.

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Where Smart Kids Get Smarter. WestchesterParent

NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

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Who: Flourish Baking Company What’s New: After-school workshops to teach professional sweet and savory baking techniques for aspiring chefs and bakers. The early evening classes will give students the opportunity to experience the inside of a real commercial bakery and master recipes from start to finish. Classes are open to ages 9 and older. Online registration begins in August for mid-September enrollment. Workshops will be held once per week for eight sessions. Classes are limited to 12 students. Want More Info: 160 Summerfield St., Scarsdale; 914-7251026; flourishbakingcompany.com

Courtesy Flourish Baking Company

Baking Company to Launch After-School Workshops

Class preparations at Flourish Baking Company

Who: Girl AGain What’s New: In-store events including author readings, tea parties, and craft activities. Many of the events are inspired by the stories of historical American Girl dolls, which are then used to teach as well as encourage creativity. Girl AGain boutique sells refurbished American Girl dolls, clothes, books, and furniture and is operated by the nonprofit organization Yes She Can Inc., which aims to “help develop transferable job skills for young women with autism,” says founder Marjorie Madfis. Want More Info: 4 Martine Ave., Store 2B, White Plains; 914-358-1460; girlagain.com

Courtesy Girl AGain

American Girl Resale Boutique to Host In-Store Activities

Girls shopping at the Girl Again boutique

Who: Magic Cuts for Kids What’s New: Adults are now welcome to make appointments at the salon that once serviced only children. “We cut for the whole family,” says owner Sonia Munguia. The salon remains very kid-friendly, offering fun chairs, DVDs, cable TV, cartoons, and Xbox. It also sells organic hair products for children including shampoo, conditioner, and styling products. Magic Cuts for Kids offers promotions such as certificates for baby’s first haircut, $5 haircut coupons for birthdays, and the 10th haircut free. Want More Info: 159 E. Main St., New Rochelle; 914-813-8142

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Magic Cuts for Kids

Hair Salon For Kids in New Rochelle Now Welcoming Adults

The Magic Cuts for Kids Salon

WestchesterParent

UOTABLES The days are hot, hot, hot; and the house is stale and messy. I am often reminded in its state something my neighbor said to me one afternoon, after I apologized for our home’s condition: ‘You are living. That’s what this is.’ —NYC mom Latonya Yvetter in a post entitled “Motherhood Right Now” on her blog blog.latonyayvette.com

in an instagram He couldn’t wait to get on and he claimed the frog right away. His eyes were big and he kept throwing his head back and looking up at the lights, bopping his head to the carrousel music. Then as soon as he got off he asked if there was a roller coaster in the park he could ride next. #boys (Posted by Manhattan mom @lilliesandleon, aka Nicole Gonzalez, who blogs at lilliesandleon.com)

PARENTING AFRICAN-AMERICAN BOYS “I see my fellow black moms hurting. I’m hurting. I see my non-black friends hurting. And I see those who are keeping silent.”

in an instagram Hidden gem in Long Island—Hempstead State Park for a lazy Sunday fishing adventure #blogger #photography

—Long Island mom Kimberly Thomas, who runs the blog valleystreammom.com in an essay on entitled “At What Age Will My Son Become a Threat?” Read it all at nymetroparents. com/kimberly-thomas

(Posted by @thatsbetsyv, a NYC mom who blogs at betsy-v.com)

“It’s okay to be scared. If we aren’t terrified about some of the things we need to do as we learn how to be a parent, we aren’t parenting well enough.” —Manhattan dad Pete Cataldo, who runs the website daddymindtricks.com, in a Huffington Post article entitled “5 Thoughts On The First Year Of Fatherhood”

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: FREE FUN: Visit museums and zoos without paying (nymetroparents.com/free) FAIRS & FESTIVALS: Where to go in the late summer and fall (nymetroparents.com/fairs) BEAM THEM UP: All about the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum’s interactive Star Trek exhibit (nymetroparents.com/star-trek) FALL GUIDE: How to make the most of autumn (nymetroparents.com/fall-guide)

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Call early to book your assessment! Spaces are limited! Mathnasium of Central Ave. mathnasium.com /scarsdalecentralavenue 450 Central Avenue Mamaroneck, NY

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Offer valid for new families only at participating Gymboree Play & Music locations. Existing Gymboree Play & Music customers are not eligible. Offer cannot be combined with other offers and is not redeemable for cash or credit. Gymboree Play & Music may change this promotion at any time, at3 Gymboree Play & Music’s sole discretion. Void where prohibited by law. 2Offer expires 10/31/2016. Check with your local Gymboree Play & Music for promotion details. 3Subject to change. Check with your local Gymboree Play & Music.

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WestchesterParent 11

DIY CORNER IMAGINARY PLAY

Hello, Sailor!

After a fresh batch of laundry is fluffed and folded, take your basket to the high seas. What you’ll need: • 1 40-inch stick or dowel • 1 18-inch stick or dowel • Thin cotton rope • 1 24-by-18-inch piece of fabric or bed sheet • Scissors • Hot-glue gun (optional) • Fabric scraps • 1 laundry basket 1. To make the mast and the boom, cross the short stick perpendicularly over the long stick approximately 24 inches down from one end and wrap the joint, making figure eights back and forth around the sticks, with approximately 2 feet of cotton rope. 2. To make the sail, cut your piece of fabric in half diagonally. Place the right corner of the sail where the mast and the boom meet. For a quick assembly, have an adult hot-glue the fabric edges to the mast and the boom, or tie your sail on: Use your scissors to poke holes every 3 inches along the two perpendicular edges of the fabric, approximately 1 inch in from the edge. Cut 4-inch

pieces of rope and thread them through the holes and around the sticks. 3. Cut an 80-inch piece of rope and the tie strips of fabric scraps you might have every 3-5 inches along the rope. Tie the rope to the top of the mast, and let it hang down. 4. Use rope to tie the mast to the side of the basket, securing it through the holes in at least two places. Excerpted from Project Kid: Crafts That Go! by Amanda Kingloff (Artisan Books). Copyright © 2016. Photographs by Alexandra Grablewski and Amanda Kingloff

WESTCHESTER’S PREMIERE COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL SINCE 1944

Comprehensive music education for students of all ages by a world-class faculty in a warm and familial environment

• Private Instrumental and Vocal Instruction • Music Classes and Programs for Young Children • Musicianship Classes • Chamber Ensembles • Large Ensembles including Four Orchestras and Choruses • Jazz Instruction • Adult Instruction and Enrichment Programs

25 School Lane, Scarsdale, NY 10583 hb@hbms.org • www.hbms.org Tel: (914) 723-1169 Joan Behrens Bergman, Executive Director 12

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

• Performance Opportunities for All Enrolled Students

When your little angel thinks heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a daredevil...

Better have a good pediatrician. Make sure your kids are covered.

Contact Affinity Health Plan at 866.247.5678 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 13

VOICES

Out on Her Own ›› How I learned to let go of my middle schooler, a little bit at a time By Dana Greenberg

cannot believe that my little girl is starting eighth grade, her final year of middle school. Where has the time gone? The days when I would tag along on the walk to school in the mornings are just about over. I may have squeezed my last “I’ll take you and your friends for pizza” out of her. I can only hope I have done my job and prepared her well for the road on which we are now embarking. When my daughter was going into sixth grade, just starting middle school, parents of older children in New York City told me that many kids start traveling alone, without an adult, sometime during the middle school years. The thought of this absolutely terrified me: the strangers, the cars, the bikers. I knew I had to start preparing her to navigate the streets without me by her side. In the beginning of sixth grade I made a very conscious effort to start making her aware of everything I could think of on the route to school—and even scare her a little bit. We discussed which streets had turning signals, what side of the street the liquor store is on, how to wait until the bikers stop before crossing the street, and so much more. I did this over and over and over again for months, just like a broken record. Finally it was time to let her guide the way. “Tell me what to do, when to cross, where to stand,” I told her. By the end of the sixth grade, she was walking home from school without an adult. As we moved to seventh grade, I suspected she would have even more of a zest for independence. To that point, she’d only gone to and from school by herself. Now she wanted to go to friends’ apartments, the movies, the frozen yogurt shop. How was I going to deal with this? I really needed to think about the next steps. Since she was not necessarily going to be staying in our neighborhood, we talked about the choices of transportation in the city—buses, subways, Ubers. There are so many options, but we needed to figure out what would make us both feel safe and comfortable. I got her the Uber app for her phone, and I make

sure she always has a MetroCard with funds on it. We both agreed that walking should be her first choice if the distance is not too far. We talked about safe places she could duck into if she ever felt it was necessary for any reason at all, such as Starbucks, Duane Reade, or CVS, places with which she is familiar and are very easy to find. She assured me, “Mom, I can do this. I’ll be fine.” I must admit, her confidence was somewhat reassuring; however, deep down, I was dying just a little bit. She was still my little girl, and I would worry no matter what. We did tons of talking and prepping. Then one day, it was time for her to go use all of her newfound knowledge and be a big kid with her friends. Even today, I still remind her before she leaves the house to make sure her phone is fully charged and that her tracker app is on. “No texting while walking, don’t stand too close to the curb, and be careful of those bikers,” I remind her as I watch her walk down the hall to the elevator. I typically get a cute smirk in return. As time goes on, I admit, it does get a little easier—but just a little easier—to watch her walk out the door. As hard as it is to watch this independence sprouting right in front of my eyes, I have found an upside to all of this. I no longer have to take her everywhere. I don’t have to drag her brother out in the rain to pick her up from a friend’s apartment. I can even send her down to the supermarket to pick up a few things for me. This independence thing might not be so bad after all! As my city kid now starts her last year of middle school, I feel almost as confident as she does when she is out and about on her own or with her friends. I must remind myself that I have done my job and taught her to make smart choices. I can’t be with her every second, so I must trust that she has listened and paid attention along the way. She has come a long way since starting middle school. I will continue to let go, even while still trying to hold on to her, a little bit at a time.

Dana Greenberg is a mom of twins living in Manhattan. Dana’s site theautismclub.com was created as a way to connect moms who have kids with special needs, like her son Jack—who has autism—and offer them a space to tell their stories.

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Now Enrolling for Fall Semester

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The Little Gym of Upper West Side www.TLGUpperWestSideNY.com 212-799-1225

The Little Gym of Waldwick TLGWaldwickNJ@thelittlegym.com 201-445-4444

The Little Gym of Upper East Side www.TLGUpperEastSideNY.com 212-787-1124

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

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Rules to Live By ›› By Bethany Braun

Walker Lamond’s first book, Rules for My Unborn Son was based on his blog of a similar name. He recently released a follow-up, Rules for My Newborn Daughter, in which he shares hilarious “pearls of wisdom” such as, “Don’t pawn your grandmother’s jewelry” and “Practice safe selfies.” Do you have a favorite rule or piece of parenting advice? For you? Your kids? I think I come from the paint-inside-the-lines school of parenting. I tell my kids that if you’re the kind of person that respects dress codes and knows what the little fork is for, you’ll be given more liberty to be the life of the party. As a parent I just have to remind myself every day to be patient, kind, and silly. And not throw shoes. Do your kids follow these rules? I’m lucky if they leave the house with shoes. Have you experienced a difference in parenting boys vs. girls? Universally? No, I don’t think so. Kids learn from your example. Which is why I probably use these books more as manuals for being a better dad than I do as rulebooks for raising better kids. That being said, my son is way more susceptible to bribes. Do you think parents should collect their own sets of rules for their kids? Absolutely! These books were imagined as conversations with my own kids and are specific to my own experiences growing up. There’s plenty in there that some parents will disagree with, and I love it when readers give the rules their own spin or take to Twitter to tell me how wrong I am. I think writing down your own rules for your kids is a great way not just to keep your little angels in line, but also to pass down your own experiences and institutional knowledge about how to live a fun, fulfilling life. How was writing the book for your daughter different than writing it for your son? When I started Rules for My Newborn Daughter, I did have a nagging concern that it may not be appropriate for a man to be doling out advice to a young woman. I mean if I wanted my daughter to grow into a strong, independent woman unafraid to challenge traditional power structures and gender stereotypes, handing her a book full of rules written by a man didn’t seem like the best way to start her journey. But I think a dad has a right and a duty to tell his daughter what he expects of her. To share with her what he knows about life and how to make the best of it. And while I might not know even a fraction of what it takes to become an independent, intelligent, courteous, courageous, honest, adventurous, self-reliant, well-read, well-dressed, well-mannered young woman, I do know someone who does. Thankfully, I married her.

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Cute Kids!

››

Meet the winner of our 2016 cover contest, and take a look at all eight finalists.

rom April to June the staff here at NYMetroParents had the hard job of picking eight finalists from hundreds of adorable entries. Once we were able to narrow it down, the finalists traveled from all across the New York metro area to meet for a photo shoot at PhotoOp NYC. The finalists wore their best smiles and some seriously stylish clothes and had a blast shooting with the studio’s awesome photographers. The kids did a great job posing for the camera, but at the end of the day it was 3-year-old Carter from Suffolk County who was selected as the Grand Prize Winner. Carter and his family will enjoy a weekend trip to Great Wolf Lodge to celebrate his big win! Each finalist received a $25 gift card from Appaman, who also provided most of the clothes for the shoot, and a New York CityPASS ticket book. Plus, our fan favorite, Konstancja from Brooklyn, received a family fourpack of tickets to Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA. You’ll get to see more of these smiling cuties in the coming months. Thank you to everyone who helped make this contest a success, especially our sponsor, Barbizon.

Carter

Age: 3 Hometown: Suffolk County

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

Genesis

Age: 8 Hometown: Fairfield County, CT

Ryan

Angelina

Age: 13 Hometown: Nassau County

Age: 6 Hometown: Manhattan

Lucas

Age: 5 Hometown: Queens

Emma

Age: 10 Hometown: Rockland County

Angelina C.

Age: 4 Hometown: Westchester County

Konstancja

Age: 7 Hometown: Brooklyn

FAN FAVORITE

Courtesy David Hamburger

Filling the Gap

››

Many high school graduates are opting to take a year “off” before starting college. But far from doing nothing, they are participating in programs and gaining experiences that set them up for success in college and provide a lifetime of benefits. By Lauren Diaz New York City native and Columbia University graduate David Hamburger (left) volunteered for a nonprofit called Pencils of Promise during his gap year. He traveled on behalf of the organization to visit rural schools in northern Laos.

hen Malia Obama announced her decision to defer her acceptance to Harvard University for a year, she became the poster child for a growing trend. The Associated Press reports that Malia is one of an estimated 30,000-40,000 students each year who choose to take an academic break before attending college—a number that is steadily rising, according to the American Gap Association, which tracks this data. After spending 13 years in the educational system, many students are now electing to take a year off from school to do a variety of activities and programs—known as a gap year—and are coming back to start college with a new perspective and maturity. There are many options for those looking for a rewarding, meaningful gap year, including travel or study abroad and volunteering or working here in the United States in virtually any setting imaginable. When many of us imagine gap years, we tend to think of expensive programs abroad or at sea, but many teens opt for volunteering or working instead. Students can either invest money in a program or spend the time gaining work experience and saving money for tuition. When it comes to managing college applications, they can either apply to college and defer matriculating for a year, or wait to apply during their gap year after mulling it over. There is something formative out there for every student. David Hamburger, a New York City native and Dalton School alumnus, deferred his 2011 admission to The University of Chicago in order to devote himself to a year of service work for 20

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

multiple organizations. Hamburger volunteered at Habitat for Humanity during the fall while also working for an educational development nonprofit called Pencils of Promise. As a volunteer at the relatively new organization, Hamburger was given a great amount of responsibility, which led to an internship with its International Programs team in the spring of his gap year. At 18, Hamburger was responsible for spearheading an overhaul of Pencils of Promise’s data storage, supervising four junior interns, and training new hires. After applying to Columbia University during the fall of his gap year, Hamburger was admitted for the fall semester of 2012. By 19, he entered Columbia with a level of real-world work experience practically unheard of for his age.

The Benefits of Taking a Gap Year

While gap years may be relatively new in the broader culture, they have long been a staple of Jewish education, with schools encouraging students to study in Israel for a year before heading to college. Dorothy Denburg, director of college counseling at Heschel High School, a Jewish day school in Manhattan, reports that approximately a third of her students chose to defer college last year. “There are so many options for different structured programs for them,” she says, adding that when she previously worked for a college, 90 percent of the students she saw taking a gap year were Jewish, and most of them had spent their year in a wide variety of programs based in Israel. The motivation, Denburg says, is to “spend a year in Israel but not necessarily in study”

and to “go to college with a year of maturity under your belt,” a sentiment that is quickly gaining ground among students and educators far beyond the Jewish community. A huge benefit of taking a gap year is the life or work experience that comes with it. Contrary to some people’s misperceptions, “it is very often our strongest students who will choose to take a gap year”—not to improve anything specific academically but to foster their own “intellectual and personal growth,” notes Jessica Landis, a guidance counselor at King School, an independent school in Stamford, CT. That includes self-discovery, which can be achieved richly and deeply from gap-year experiences. “It’s so much better if you take time to get to know yourself in a different situation outside of the academic world,” since you “learn so much more about yourself when you’re actually participating as opposed to just sitting in a classroom learning,” says Susan Avery, a guidance counselor at Harvest Collegiate High School, a Manhattan public school. Another, often vital reason to take a gap year is to take a breather. Thinking back to her time working at private schools, Avery says the “level of stress seen on children was astounding.” A gap year is “the single best thing a kid can do for themselves after spending 13 years in school.” Hamburger agrees, adding that it is especially important for students dealing with a physical or mental illness. “One thing I observed at college is how difficult it can be for people that aren’t 100-percent [well] to make it through a semester,” he says, adding that “it paid dividends” for his peers who took time off as a “chance to recharge.”

Debunking the Case Against Gap Years

The low number of students taking gap years in years past can in some ways be attributed to societal pressures and common misconceptions. For many high school students, immediate college enrollment seems like the necessary next step in a strict path. There has been an ingrained fear of facing social ridicule and alienation, falling behind, and ultimately failing professionally as a result of taking a year off. Landis says she recognizes many students fear condemnation from their peers but countered that “once those students talk about what their plans are, what they’ll be doing with that time, I think a lot of students actually look back and say ‘Wow. I wish I had considered doing that a little bit more.’” Students tend to fear being left behind, since most of their former classmates will be sophomores while they are in their first years, but “that’s ok,” Landis says. “You have done something equally valuable that will also have a really positive impact on your future.” Avery agrees, saying “there’s no such thing as graduating on time. People just want to know that you went to college.” A huge misconception plaguing high school seniors is the notion that gap years are only for the affluent. “So is money a problem?” Avery says, “Well, no, because you’re not spending. You’re not paying college tuition when you’re on a gap year.” There are certainly students who spend the year in programs for which they need to pay, Avery says, recalling a student who did a semester at sea. But money is not a prerequisite, and there are many tuitionfree ways to spend a productive gap year. For “kids who need to just stop the carousel of academics and jump off and go do something different,” Avery says, “there are always options.” Hamburger personally found no disadvantages in his gap year, continued on next page ››

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‹‹ continued from previous page

saying it was a “tremendous year of growth” that set him up for the “next four years and beyond.” “Legitimately, every activity I engaged in during my gap year continued at Columbia,” he says. From his gap year Hamburger attained lifelong friends, a great mentor, the initiative to participate in a future study abroad program, and an established interest in international education. He also considers his work at Pencils of Promise to be “among the most substantial and important work I’ve ever done in my professional life” and believes the experience ultimately led him to attaining his current postgraduate Fulbright-Nehru fellowship.

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Hamburger argues that in order to have a successful gap year, a teenager must “be devoting him or herself to something he or she is interested in or cares about.” Keep yourself busy, and maintain good communication with your parents, he advises. While he thinks almost everyone would benefit from a gap year, he also believes those students who are able to take initiative, are struggling with an illness, have a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” or are lacking in maturity would glean the most from taking a year off, while those hoping to just take an unstructured vacation would not do as well. Taking a gap year is a highly personal and complicated decision that can only be made by the student. The role of a parent is similar to that of the guidance counselor: listen, guide, and support. Avery points out that we do not even know what Malia Obama is doing with her gap year yet, but “the fact that the Obamas are 100-percent behind their daughter taking an academic breather just truly makes my heart joyful because it sends such an important message that everybody needs to slow the heck down.”

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Calming the Chaos of the Cafeteria ›› Some children forgo eating at lunchtime to be social. Here’s how to get your kids to eat a healthy lunch while chatting with their friends. By Nimali Fernando, M.D., MPH, and Melanie Potock, M.A., CCC-SLP

hances are it’s been a while since you’ve ordered “hot lunch” in the school cafeteria. Whether you send a homepacked lunch with your child or they order lunch, eating in the cafeteria can be overwhelming at first. Coach Mel [Melanie Potock, M.A., CCC-SLP ] had a client who called it the “caféFEAR-ia” because the whole experience was a bit scary for him. Imagine being a brand-new kindergartner, toting your sparkly new Disney princess lunch box down the school hallway, when you turn and enter utter chaos. Older kids tower over you as you cross the sea of tables and try to find where you are supposed to sit for the next 20 minutes. Irritating fluorescent lights flicker while children chatter, teachers clap loudly to insist on silence, and rebellious kids ignore the adult plea and pop potato chip bags open with a bang! Metal lunch boxes clang as hungry tykes unpack a multitude of tins, cartons, juice boxes, and squeezable thingamajigs. The display on the tables is like a giant fire sale. Now picture the typical metal cafeteria table with benches made to fit the average fifth-grader. Your kindergartner’s feet are

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

dangling and there’s no backrest. She has to balance while her elbows hunch up practically to shoulder level in order to stabilize herself on the table edge, her little eyes barely able to see past the barrage of sandwich bags and containers spread before her. In an effort to ensure that their kids eat anything at all, well-meaning parents pack lunch boxes filled to the brim, typically with seven to eight different options. She sits and tries to ignore the boy next to her who keeps elbowing her in the ribs as he turns to talk to his friend on the other side of her—and turns back to eat—and then turns back to his friend. By the time she gets out all the containers you’ve packed, plus the juice box straw finally unwrapped and poked hard enough that juice squirts her in the face, five minutes have gone by. She’s holding up her other hand to signal the teacher, “Can you please open this lid?” but there are three other kids who need help first. Meanwhile, that nice girl who played with her at the craft table this morning wants to chat—and she just wants to make friends. Maybe she’ll get a few containers open and swig down that juice, but now her mind is on recess. Here’s the biggest dilemma:

RP Fairfield Parent half sept.qxp_Layout 1 8/16/16 7:11 AM Page 1

For most kids, their priority during that very quick lunch is to visit with their friends and get a few bites of food in in the process. However, teachers and the parents have a different priority for lunchtime: They want kids to have a nutritious meal so they are well fueled and ready to learn in the afternoon.

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Solutions to the Chaos

If your school cafeteria resembles the picture we’ve painted above, and you want to rest assured that your child gets a healthy lunch in her belly, here are six solutions to finding some calm in the chaos:

Fun For The whole Family

Send one easy-open container plus a drink. Bento boxes are all the rage nowadays. For many families, there is just enough time to get lunches packed and to grab them on the way out the door in the morning. The solution is a one-piece bento with an easyopen lid. Bentos are not as overwhelming as a lunch box filled to the brim with individual plastic bags, containers, and drippy fruit cups with tricky foil lids. Our favorites are EasyLunchboxes (the best-selling lunch-box system on Amazon) and the Yumbox (yumboxlunch.com). Both offer easy-open lids and compartments that are just the right size for kids. The Yumbox can be ordered with different trays that fit inside the box itself. Our favorite tray has five compartments each marked with a food group: Protein, Vegetables, Fruit, Dairy, and Grains to ensure a balanced lunch every time you pack.

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Pack “grab and gab” food. Cut fresh fruit, veggies, sandwiches, cheese, etc., small enough so that kids can grab a piece without having to look down, and continue to gab with their friends across the table. Using a cookie cutter to create food in a fun shape like a dinosaur keeps the eating on track for some kids. But for kids who tend to eat a sandwich and skip the other items, try cutting the sandwich into small pieces so the child alternates grabbing a variety of foods, much like a mini-smorgasbord. Remember, you don’t need to send a whole sandwich when sending half leaves room in little bellies for other key food groups. Include a power-packed smoothie that you made the night before. Freeze it directly in a cup or Mason jar with a lid and be sure to include a wide straw. Wrap some rubber bands around the continued on next page ››

COACH MEL’S TIP: WHAT’S THE STAR OF YOUR CHILD’S LUNCH? As a speech-language pathologist, I teach the parents engaged in lunch-box dinners with their child to practice this little script: “I’ve got ____ in my lunch!” In all my years of sitting in school cafeterias and listening to young kids, it’s always the first thing they say to each other. It’s their traditional conversation starter, usually accompanied by them proudly holding up the celebrity food—the star of the lunch box. I can attest that I hear just as many kids enthusiastically say, “I have fruit today!” as “I have chips today!” Try for the veggies. It’s really OK—it’s just as cool to have vegetables cut up into stars or other fun shapes so they can announce, “I have CUCUMBER STARS today!” Better yet, get the kids involved packing the lunches and creating fun shapes so they can exclaim, “I made carrot triangles for lunch!”

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jar for added grip and to keep little hands from getting too chilly. By the time your child opens her lunch, the smoothie will be the perfect consistency, plus it helps to keep the lunch cold. Pack last night’s dinner for lunch. If your child has a favorite healthy dinner, find ways to pack it in his lunch the next day. Use insulated containers to keep soups, stews, or pasta warm for lunchtime. Using leftovers can save time packing lunch in the morning, too. Pack a waste-free lunch. A lunch-box system means that you won’t be throwing away plastic bags every day. Use brightly colored cloth napkins and stainless steel water bottles to make lunch even more fun. Use lunch packing as a chance to show kids that they help to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Start weekly lunch-box dinners at home. For kids transitioning to school lunch, introduce once-a-week lunch-box dinners where the entire family pretends to eat in the school cafeteria. At the entrance to the kitchen or dining area, one parent stashes a large bin, just like the kids will find at school. Each member of the family has their own distinct lunch box thrown into the bin, along with a few “old” random empty lunch boxes, so kids can practice digging down to the bottom to find their own. Once everyone is seated at the table, the child can practice the fine motor skills of unzipping zippers, unfastening Velcro flaps, and opening up containers. Choose a lunch box that is easy to open and pack it with “grab and gab” food, just like you would in the cafeteria. Once the meal is over, everyone latches their lunch box and puts it back in the bin, just like at school.

Phasing in New Foods

When packing lunch, parents pray that their child will “just eat something!” But at the end of the day, especially if the child is a picky eater, parents sigh as they open the lunch-box latch and see that lunch has barely been touched. What can a parent do at home to encourage kids to eat lunch, even when they eat only five to 15 different foods and are hesitant to try anything new? Here are some tips to encourage young eaters to explore beyond their preferred foods: Begin with exposure. Kids may need to see a new food multiple times before they may even consider trying it. That means they need to see it at school, too. If you’re thinking, “But he won’t eat it, so why pack it?” remember that the first step is helping your hesitant eater get used to the presence of that food in his lunch box again and again. Food doesn’t have to be eaten to serve a purpose in food education, and it doesn’t have to be a large quantity of food when first introduced. Give kids ownership in the lunch-packing process. All kids like predictability and being a part of the process. Ask them to help with choosing, preparing, and packing lunch items. They are more likely to enjoy food when they are involved. Include a favorite, but just enough. Most of us eat our favorite foods first, so be sure to include your child’s preferred food, but not too much. Provide just enough so that you won’t be worried that they are starving, but not so much that the other lesspreferred choices don’t stand a chance.

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

No comments, please! When the lunch box comes home, resist the urge to unpack it immediately. Give everyone a chance to breathe, especially those kids with sensory challenges who have difficulty with transitions from one environment to another. When you eventually open it, don’t comment about the contents. Say nothing, positive or negative. For many kids, it creates too much focus on whether they ate or not. For now, just wash it out and set it on the counter for your child to pack again later that evening. If your child mentions the food or requests it again, that’s the time to respond with a positive comment. Be careful not to say things like, “See, I knew you would like it!” You may mean well, but a child will typically interpret that as “See, I was right and you weren’t.” Try stating something positive, such as, “Pomegranates are one of my favorites—I like how they crunch and squirt at the same time in my mouth!” Make a lunch-packing roadmap. Skip the filler foods such as pretzels and chips and pack a balanced lunch by including items from all five food groups: proteins, grains, dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Use the chart below to keep you on track and have plenty of options that are frozen or shelf-stable in case you run out of fresh. A handful of frozen edamame or dried fruit can be a great stand-in for fresh vegetables or fruit in a pinch. Whether you have a selective eater or a “foodie” with a palate that rivals a Top Chef, have all the kids in your family create a packing map and be responsible for their own lunch packing. Kids can choose foods from each group while the parent provides the healthy food options and keeps the kitchen stocked! Remember, it starts with exposure and builds from there.

Fruit

Grain

Mixed dried fruit Raisins Grapes Berries Apple slices Melon balls Fruit and yogurt blend All-fruit leather

Whole grain bread Pasta Soba noodles Quinoa Pita bread Tortillas Brown rice Granola

Vegetable

Protein

Carrot sticks Celery sticks Edamame Sugar snap peas Sliced sweet peppers Cherry tomatoes Kale chips Broccoli Vegetable soup

Yogurt Lean meats Hummus Nut butters Sunflower butter Beans, bean salads Meatballs Cheese Eggs

Excerpt from Raising a Healthy, Happy Eater: A Stage-by-Stage Guide to Setting Your Child on the Path to Adventurous Eating, copyright © Nimali Fernando and Melanie Potock 2015. Reprinted by permission of the publisher, The Experiment. Available wherever books are sold. theexperimentpublishing.com.

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Should Your Kid Play Contact Sports? ››

As our understanding of concussions grows, policies are being put in place to keep young athletes safe. But some still wonder whether certain sports can ever be considered safe for kids. By Melissa Kagan

t’s a question more and more parents are asking these days: “Should I let my kid play football?” Or maybe it’s soccer, lacrosse, ice hockey, or some other contact sport. Their concern with these activities can be summed up in one word: concussions. For most kids, playing sports is fun, social, and challenging. Sports are also an excellent way to teach teamwork, competitiveness, and responsibility, while helping kids grow stronger and stay fit. But at the same time, a growing body of research has focused on the dangers of concussions and head injuries in youth sports, and the conversation has escalated over the past few years. Lawsuits by former pro-football players with lingering health problems and Will Smith’s 2015 movie Concussion have brought the topic of sportsrelated head injuries into the spotlight. In some ways, this extra attention is great for young athletes. And yet, in other ways it’s holding them back, as some parents wonder whether contact sports are safe in any capacity.

When Can Kids Start Playing Again?

Discussion about the risk of sports-related brain injury leads to heightened awareness. Many families and coaches now better understand the signs and symptoms of concussions. They’re seeking care when necessary, taking precautions, and following the proper re28

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

turn-to-play guidelines (a set of criteria detailing when someone can return to the field after a concussion)—all positive developments. Concerns over athletes returning to play too quickly have led legislators in almost all states to pass laws stating that no player may return to play the same day of getting a concussion and that the athlete must be cleared by an appropriate health care professional before she is allowed to return to play in games or practices. The laws typically also mandate that players, parents, and coaches receive education on the dangers of concussions and recognizing their signs and symptoms. The return-to-play protocol is significant for athletes of all ages and competitive levels because the long-term effects of concussions in children can be considerable. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a six-step program, allowing approximately 24 hours for each step. If any symptoms return during this process, it’s a sign of incomplete recovery and the young athlete should wait an additional 24 hours before attempting that step again. Generally speaking, symptoms should improve within a week to 10 days, but a doctor should re-evaluate athletes with persistent symptoms. “There’s a rare condition called ‘second’ impact in which a second concussion occurs before a first concussion has properly

healed,” according to Jay Selman, M.D., chief of neurosurgery and consultant to the Traumatic Bain Injury Unit at Blythedale Children’s Hospital in Valhalla. “This causes rapid and severe brain swelling and a vast majority of these cases end in death.” The first step in the AAP’s protocol is for the child to rest—physically, as well as cognitively. “Relative cognitive rest involves minimizing potential cognitive stressors, such as schoolwork, but this also includes video games,” Dr. Selman says. “Modified school assignments shouldn’t result in your child playing Xbox all afternoon.” After that, the steps call for the child to slowly and methodically return to activities.

New Policies

Another result of the public discussion about concussions is that Pop Warner, the country’s largest youth football organization, announced in May that it will ban kickoffs in games starting this fall, the latest attempt to reduce the risk of head blows that can lead to concussions. The elimination of kickoffs will apply to the three youngest Pop Warner divisions, which include players ages 5-10. It will possibly expand to older kids in the near future, once the results of the change have been reviewed. Instead of kickoffs, the ball will be placed at the 35-yard-line at the beginning of each half and after each score. Pop Warner will also reduce the amount of contact time in practice in all age groups, to 25 percent from 33 percent. Because the number of children who sustain concussions is on the rise, youth recreation programs and many school districts are responding with stricter policies to ensure safer play. For example last winter, the Westchester County Concussion Task Force unveiled a list of best practices for concussion management

for high school and youth sports. The 10-point plan focuses on improving collaboration between school officials when treating head injuries. It also stresses the importance of parent education about concussions and how to identify symptoms. The task force’s goal is to get schools caught up on the latest, rapidly evolving science of head injury protocol and concussion treatment. Many advocacy groups encourage parents to have their children evaluated before the playing season begins to establish a baseline measure of brain function. One such test, called the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT), evaluates memory, motor speed, and reaction time. Athletes take the test at the start of the season and periodically thereafter, and again if they’re injured. continued on next page ››

RETURN-TO-PLAY STEPS This is an example of a what a typical return-to-play plan looks like: 1. T he athlete must observe complete physical and cognitive rest while symptoms are present. 2. O nce the athlete has stopped showing any symptoms, he or she can progress to light aerobic activity. 3. P rovided symptoms don’t return, activity may increase to sportspecific exercises without head impact. 4. The athlete may advance to more complex, non-contact drills. 5. The athlete may advance to full-contact practice. 6. The athlete may advance to normal game play.

HAPPY, HEALTHY AND READY FOR KINDERGARTEN • Learning through play, discussion, art, music and more • Enrichment programs in music and movement, nature, science, yoga • Well-rounded emotional, social, physical and academic development • Focus on critical thinking and early literacy skills Openings available now for preschoolers (3-5 yrs); limited availability for infants and toddlers. Center hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A TOUR: (914) 606-6644 Virginia Marx Children’s Center at Westchester Community College 75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla NY 10595 (914) 606-6644 • vmcc@sunywcc.edu www.sunywcc.edu/student-services/childrenscenter

WestchesterParent 29

‹‹ continued from previous page

Paralyzed by Fear

The recent attention to the dangers of concussions has led some parents to say they are now paralyzed with fear and are choosing to keep their kids out of sports entirely. Lisa, a mother of two in Scarsdale, is relieved that neither of her boys has asked to play football. “I would be fine with flag football but I would be entirely opposed to tackle football,” she says. “Although, my 13-yearold son, who, like many boys his age, has suffered from one concussion already from soccer. So now I’m rethinking soccer as well. I’m starting to question the safety of any sport at this point.” There is a middle ground that some experts are advocating. Instead of kids avoiding sports entirely, these advocates believe in setting a minimum age for when kids should be allowed to start playing contact sports. Bennet Omalu, M.D., a forensic pathologist and leading expert in the growing field of concussion research, wrote an op-ed piece last year for The New York Times saying that children should be prevented from playing football and other high-impact contact sports before the age of 18. “Our children are minors who have not reached the age of consent,” Dr. Omalu wrote. “It is our moral duty as a society to protect the most vulnerable of us. The human brain becomes fully developed at about 18 to 25 years old. We should at least wait for our children to grow up, be provided with the information and education on the risk of play, and let them make their own decisions. No adult, not a parent or a coach, should be allowed to make this potentially life-altering decision for a child.” Other experts in the field propose that tackle football, heading in soccer, and full-body checking in ice hockey not start until kids

Swim with Us!

Learn to Swim Classes Competitive Swimming Water Exercise Lap & Family Swim (914) 949-6227 x152

are 14, largely because their brains and bodies are still developing and are therefore more vulnerable to serious injury. “Nothing magic happens when an athlete turns 14,” Dr. Selman says. “There are big 14-year-olds who develop earlier and then there are 14-year-olds who look like they are 10. But by the time teens are juniors or seniors in high school, the difference in size between the athletes isn’t quite as dramatic.”

When to Quit

There is no set number of concussions that determine when a young person should give up playing contact sports. The circumstances that surround each individual injury, such as how the injury occurred and the duration of symptoms, are very important and must be factored in when assessing an athlete’s risk for—and potential long-term consequences from—experiencing additional and potentially more serious concussions. The decision to quit certain sports is a decision best reached after a complete evaluation by your child’s primary care provider and consultation with a physician or neuropsychologist who specializes in treating sports concussions. It’s not an easy decision to make. Ultimately, it is up to parents to make informed choices based on their individual circumstances about whether to let children play contact sports. And above all, it is critical for parents and coaches to arm themselves with proper concussion knowledge, the right equipment, good training, an understanding of the symptoms of a concussion, and a healthy attitude about sports should they let their kids participate. Melissa Kagan is the former editor-in-chief of the now-defunct lifetimemoms.com. She is currently a freelance writer whose work has been featured in Mommy Poppins, Westchester Magazine and Westchester Family. She lives in Pelham with her husband and two children.

Flip & Tumble

Recreational Gymnastics Competitive Teams Preschool Programs Tumbling & Parkour (914) 949-6227 x 135

Fencing, Karate, Yoga & Fitness Programs Youth & Adult Classes Balance Training Fitness Center (914) 949-6227 x208

Visit us at: www.ywcawpcw.org Email: membership@ywcawpcw.org (914) 949-6227 YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester 515 North Street • White Plains, NY 30

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

A Dental Visit Can Be Fun! NEW LASER TECHNOLOGY Your kids CAN have their cavities fixed without an injection, without pain and without a numb lip afterwards! (In most cases.)

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OUTINGS: New York City Fire Museum

nymetroparents.com/outings

New York’s Bravest 1

Courtesy New York City Fire Museum

Housed in a 1904 firehouse, this must-see museum tells the history of the FDNY. ›› By Melissa Wickes 3

1 This 1912 American LaFrance Tractor-Steamer, a coal-fired steam engine drawn by a gasoline powered front-drive tractor, was dubbed “Old 93” upon its retirement in 1933 when it was then used as a parade vehicle. 2 The New York City Fire Museum is housed in the former quarters of Engine Company No. 30, a 1904 Beaux-Arts firehouse. 3 The Brooklyn Company Engine No. 8 is a steam engine pumper made by American LaFrance in 1901 and was drawn by three horses. 4 Framed documents and works of art illustrate firefighting in the volunteer period in the Romance of Firefighting exhibit. 5 This permanent memorial to the 343 firefighters lost on 9/11 was designed by Jude Amsel and is made of tiles with the names and images of each firefighter.

The New York City Fire Museum is the official museum of the Fire Department of the City of New York. Housed in the former quarters of Engine Company No. 30, the museum is a tribute to firefighting and takes visitors through the history of techniques, equipment, and more. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a fire truck—fun for kids to climb on and perfect for a photo op.

Permanent Exhibits

Firefighting on Parade displays beautifully crafted machines and artifacts used by volunteer firefighters who marched in the firefighter parades. Paintings and illustrations depicting volunteer firefighters at work are shown in Romance of Firefighting, which honors the venerable New Yorkers who risk their lives to keep the city safe. Check out the evolution of the fire engine from the steam engine to the motorized machine in Fire Apparatus. A 32

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

crowd favorite is Tools and Uniforms, which shows how significantly firefighting gear has changed throughout the last 30 years, from breathing masks to protective garments to tools. The 9/11 Memorial Room is the first permanent memorial recognizing the 343 members of the FDNY who sacrificed their lives on Sept. 11. The exhibit includes a black marble and tile memorial showing pictures of the firefighters who lost their lives, cases displaying tools used and items recovered, and a computer station at which visitors can browse profiles of the fallen.

Fire Safety Education Program

In collaboration with the FDNY, the museum operates a fire safety program, which teaches participants about fire prevention in homes and how to escape a fire. After classroom training, students go through a simulated fire in a mock home environment. The simulation consists of a

tour through four rooms and common fire hazards are explained. A bedroom is then filled with theatrical smoke and a firefighter teaches the children how to escape.

Remembering 9/11

The NYC Fire Museum will hold a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony on Sept. 11, at 1pm, which will be led by the FDNY commissioner, with songs and a speech made by the museum director.

Details

Address: 278 Spring St., Manhattan Directions: Approximately a 55-minute drive from White Plains Hours: Daily, 10am-5pm Admission: $8; $5 students, seniors, and children ages 2-12; free with ID: FDNY, NYPD, DSNY, PANYNJ, Active U.S. Military, and Merchant Marine For more information: 212-352-3117 or nycfiremuseum.org

OPENING A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES

Join us this Fall to discover how our independent Pre-K through Grade 12 bilingual, college preparatory program inspires inquisitive thinkers and develops thoughtful, socially responsible global citizens. We welcome families of all nationalities who are united by their interest in German, Austrian and Swiss cultures. Children entering our Pre-K and Kindergarten classes do not need to speak or understand German. 50 Partridge Road, White Plains, NY 10605 (914) 948-6513 admissions@gisny.org

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Thursday, November 17, 2016

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WestchesterParent 33

Pick - Your - Own Apples & Raspberries is in full swing! *Check in on facebook or call for conditions & availabilty

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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 CORNucpoia (No. 2 on our list).

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

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

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR

36 Editor’s Hot Tickets

43 Must-Sees in NYC

38 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Special Needs, The Great Outdoors

44 Crafty Kids, 9/11 Memorials, Once Upon a Time

40 Smarty Pants

46 Fun Fairs & Festivals

41 Animal Lovers

48 Movers & Shakers

42 Show Time!, Holiday Fun

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS

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

Print and Fly Monarch Butterfly

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 1:30-3pm WHERE: JCC on the Hudson, 311 S. Broadway, Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Meet Fozzie Bear the therapy dog and his human. Discussion includes how animals help us heal. WHY WE LOVE IT: A warm and fuzzy event! WANT TO GO? $40 per family. 914-385-2115. jcconthehudson.org.

CORNucopia

Honey Harvest Party

WHEN: Sept. 3-5, Saturday-Monday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Philipsburg Manor, 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow AGES: All WHAT: Feast on a bounty of corn-centric delicacies and take part in a bevy of hands-on, corn-related activities like games such as Konk a Crow and Ring a Cob in the CORNival area. Tour the 18th-century Manor House and Mill, and watch how corn is ground on a quern stone. WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s the only corn festival in lower Hudson Valley! WANT TO GO? $16; $12 seniors; $8 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3. 914-366-6900. hudsonvalley.org.

Grandparents Day

3 36

WHY WE LOVE IT: This is a great way to include the grandparents. WANT TO GO? $8. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

WHEN: Sept. 3-4, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: The monarch butterfly begins its migration in September. With paint, make large-scale butterflies with lovely colored wings. WHY WE LOVE IT: Get your children interested in and excited about butterflies! WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Bring the family and celebrate grandparents with a unique hands-on experience.

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Saluting Two- and Four-Legged Heroes

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Visitors will learn the fascinating social network of honeybees, including the basics of how honey is harvested. WHY WE LOVE IT: Honey never tasted so good! WANT TO GO? $8. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Fall Crafts

WHEN: Sept. 16-18, Friday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: Lyndhurst, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy incredible handmade art from more than 300 featured artists on Jay Gould’s 67-acre estate. WHY WE LOVE IT: There are one-of-a-kind gifts and fun activities for the family. WANT TO GO? $12; $11 children ages 6-16; $4 for children younger than 6. 845-331-7900. artrider.com.

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

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Come Sing and Dance With Us!

★

SOWE Music Fest

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 19, 11am-7pm WHERE: Harbor Island Park, 123 Mamaroneck Road, Mamaroneck AGES: All WHAT: A celebration with food, music, and entertainment, which includes 15 bands, games, and lots of activities for the kids. WHY WE LOVE IT: Music enthusiasts will appreciate all of the family-friendly activities. WANT TO GO? $50; free for children younger than 12. 917-7333900. sowemusicfestival.com.

Evening Howl

WHEN: Sept. 9-23, Fridays, 6pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy visiting the wolves at their favorite time: dusk. Bring flashlights. WHY WE LOVE IT: Your family will really bond with nature. WANT TO GO? $16; $13 children. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Music Together® Classes Uke U. Classes

www.slsbmusic.com (914) 924-0995

FREE

First Lessonn & Consultatio

Belle School of Music

“Where Learning Is Fun!”

Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 10am-4pm WHERE: Robert Bell Middle School, 50 Senter St., Chappaqua AGES: All WHAT: Come see 90 children’s book authors and illustrators, and enjoy a huge bake sale. WHY WE LOVE IT: Children will enjoy meeting the creators of some of their favorite books. WANT TO GO? 914-238-7202. ccfestival.org.

SPECIALIzINg IN PIANO, KEYBOARDS AND VOICE Ages 2 - 4 with parent participation. Plant the seed of music in your child!

MUSIC LAND Ages 4 - 5 with parent participation. A delightful experience for Mozarts of the future.

MUSIC FOR LITTLE PEOPLE

Ages 5 - 7 with parent participation. Unique Russian-Japanese method. Experience the Magic of Music.

White Plains Jazz & Food Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 12-5:30pm WHERE: ArtsWestchester, Mamaroneck Avenue between Main Street and Martine Avenue, White Plains AGES: All WHAT: Five sets of music span the evolution of jazz from traditional Dixieland and swing to blues, Latin, and smooth and African Jazz during this open-air festival of music and international foods in downtown White Plains. WHY WE LOVE IT: A good way to expose your children to jazz. WANT TO GO? 914-428-4220. artsw.org/jazzfest. ››

ADVENTURES IN KEYBOARD Ages 8 - 12. Tradition on a new note. Piano Instruction for the child of the new millennium.

Bring out the musical talent in your child!

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

White Plains:

1088 Central Park Ave

Yonkers:

283 Tarrytown Road

1537 Central Park Ave

WestchesterParent 37

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.

Lego My Library FREE

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 19, 4:30pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Love to build? Kids can join the Lego My Library club. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Nature Program: Migration

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 4, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Join the environmental educator for a presentation and guided walk. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Family Nature Walk

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 11am WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Drop in and play with a huge collection of Thomas trains and tracks. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Walk through the gardens with a naturalist. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day Live FREE

Go Outdoors with Van Gogh

Trains & Tracks FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, see museum websites for dates and times WHERE: Various museums, see museum website AGES: All WHAT: For one day only, participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone presenting a Museum Day Live! ticket. One ticket permits two people to enter the museum for free. WANT TO GO? smithsonianmag.com/museumday.

Teacher in the Library FREE

WHEN: Sept. 12-29, Monday-Tuesday and Thursday, 4-6pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Mystified by math? Puzzled by a project? Homework help is here! WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Fall Carnival FREE

WHEN: Sept. 28–Oct. 2, Wednesday-Sunday, 4-11pm WHERE: Saints Peter and Paul - St. Ursula Church, 129 E. Birch St., Mount Vernon AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Featuring carnival rides, games and attractions, merchandise vendors, and plenty of great food from local merchants and restaurants. WANT TO GO? 914-668-9815. stspeterpaulandstursula.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS TDF Autism Theatre Initiative: ‘The Lion King’

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, see website for times WHERE: Minskoff Theatre, 200 W. 45th St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: The initiative’s season begins with the The Lion King. Its mission is to make theater accessible to those on the spectrum, and their families. WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-912-9770. tdf.org.

Pump It Up’s Sensory Friendly Bounce Time

WHEN: Through: Dec. 31: Tuesdays, 6:15-7:45pm; Saturdays, 8:30-9:30am WHERE: Pump It Up of Norwalk, 145 Main St., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: The music is low and the lights aren’t flashing. Just bouncing, jumping, and sliding. WANT TO GO? $12. 203-838-5867. pumpitupparty.com/norwalk-ct. 38

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sept. 10-11, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: “If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere,” Van Gogh said. This annual outdoor painting project uses watercolors and pencils. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

How to Compost at Home FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 9am-2pm WHERE: Down to Earth Farmers’ Market, Croton Point Avenue, Croton-on-Hudson AGES: All WHAT: Join Master Gardener Gary Tozzi as he demonstrates how to start your own home composting. WANT TO GO? 914-923-4837. downtoearthmarkets.com.

Nature Encounter: Giant Insects

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 1-3pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Meet the real-life companions from James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl. Also, meet a bug guru with live bugs. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

QUALITY HEALTH PLANS for everyone.

MVP Health Care® has a range of affordable, high-quality health plans—from free or low-cost New York State sponsored Medicaid Managed Care and Child Health Plus to the new $0 and $20 premium Essential Plans, and our many individual and family plans available through the NY State of Health™ Marketplace.

For more information, call 1-800-TALK-MVP (825-5687) Or visit DiscoverMVP.com

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. Health benefit plans are issued or administered by MVP Health Plan, Inc.; MVP Health Insurance Company; MVP Select Care, Inc.; and MVP Health Services Corp., operating subsidiaries of MVP Health Care, Inc. Not all plans available in all states and counties.

WestchesterParent 39

SMARTY PANTS Library Live 2016: Around the World Westchester’s Highest Quality Programs for Over 30 Years

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 1, 6:30pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Travel the globe without ever leaving Peekskill! Sample food from other cultures, and discover crafts, games, music, and costumes from around the world. WANT TO GO? $1 for passport. 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

‘Star Wars’ and the Power of Costume: The Exhibition

OVER 200 CLASSES A WEEK! REGISTER IN FULL BY SEPT 18TH AND RECEIVE FREE BALLET,

WHEN: Through Sept. 5: daily, Monday-Wednesday, 9am-7pm; Thursday-Sunday, 9am-7:30pm WHERE: Discovery Times Square, 226 W. 44th St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: See iconic costumes and other artifacts from “a galaxy far, far away” in this exhibit for Star Wars fans. From the menacing black mask of Darth Vader to the bikini worn by Princess Leia. WANT TO GO? $27.50; $24 seniors; $20 children ages 3-11. 866-9879692. discoverytsx.com.

Vikings: The Exhibition

JAZZ, TAP OR HIP HOP SHOES.

450 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale

(914) 723-2940

www.centralparkdance.com

WHEN: Through Sept. 5: Sunday-Tuesday, 10am-7pm; WednesdayThursday, 10am-8pm; Friday-Saturday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Discovery Times Square, 226 W. 44th St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: This exhibit features the largest collection of Viking artifacts ever on display in North America. Experience full-scale model Viking ships, weapons, daily life, jewelry, and clothing. WANT TO GO? $29.50; $24 seniors; $20 children ages 4-12. 866-9879692. discoverytsx.com.

Ninjago Weekend

WHEN: Sept. 24-25, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Legoland Discovery Center Westchester, 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Calling all Ninjas! Grab your Lego swords and get ready for a scavenger hunt. WANT TO GO? $15.95. 866-243-0770. legolanddiscoverycenter.com.

Kids Short Story Connection Workshops

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September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sept. 10-May 3, 2017, 10am-12pm, see website for dates 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.

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ANIMAL LOVERS Bird Banding

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 3, 8-10:30am WHERE: Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Road, Mount Kisco AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Participate in using mist nets and other techniques to safely capture wild birds. Assist staff as they identify each bird, record its age and sex, and place a numbered band on the bird before it is released. WANT TO GO? $5. 914-666-8448. westmorelandsanctuary.org.

Nature Play for Toddlers

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 8, 10-11am WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Meet the wolves and experience nature with games and stories. WANT TO GO? $12; $10 children. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Wolves of North America

WHEN: Sept. 3-10, Saturdays, see website for times WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Learn the mythology, biology, and ecology of wolf families. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Fall Birdings

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, 9:30am WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Naturalist Gabriel Willow shares his knowledge about bird species during a captivating walk. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

50,000 Square Feet of PURE FUN! LASER TAG • 4D Motion Theatre • 200 Video & Prize Games • 30 Foot Rock Wall Himalaya Soft Adventure Zone for Little Tykes Bumper Cars • Pool Tables • Air Hockey Batting Cages • Restaurant Can You Ha ndle The The Thrill ing Ex citeme nt?

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Ask about our private parties, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs & Sweet Sixteens 380 North Saw Mill Road, Elmsford

914-592-2111 www.sportimeusa.com Like Us & Receive Special Promotions

MARK YOUR CALENDERS: Kids Drop-O ff Dates: OCT 3, 10, 11, 12 (must pre-register)

Personalized & Gentle Dental Care By Pediatric Specialists Practicing In Westchester For Over 30 Years

Save a Species

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 15, 11am WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the recovery plan for the endangered Mexican gray wolf. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

ALL THAT IS GOOD BEGINS WITH A SMILE

Pack Chat for Kids

WHEN: Sept. 4-18, Sundays, 11am WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: All WHAT: The best introduction to wolves for families with young children. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Meet the Animals

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Informative program with live animals. WANT TO GO? $8 per person. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

“I was looking for a new dentist in the area and my friends told me about you.” Premier pediatric, orthodontic and general dental services for children of all ages and the whole family

find us on

@CompDentalNY

2001 Palmer Avenue Larchmont

Phone: 914-834-0220 | Website: www.cdg4.net Email: cdg2001@optonline.net WestchesterParent 41

WHAT: From Carnegie Hall to Valhalla, this ensemble is reputed for its brilliant playing and soulful interpretations of classical masterpieces. WANT TO GO? $22; $16 for children younger than 13. 914-606-6262. sunywcc.edu.

Louis and Ella: A Jazzical

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 8pm WHERE: White Plains Performing Art Center, 11 City Place, White Plains AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Musical tribute to the great icons of jazz. WANT TO GO? $29. 914-328-1600. wppac.com.

Francesca Mondanaro

SHOW TIME! The Wallflowers

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 1, 8-10pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: The Wallflowers has been bringing its unique and alternative style to every performance for more than 25 years. Its most recent album, Glad All Over, debuted in 2012 and recaptured the band’s vivid and colorful style that’ll have you moving to the beat. WANT TO GO? $35-$50. 914-739-0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

Martin Sexton

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 9, 8pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Martin Sexton is a classic American singer-songwriter who is known for his wide range of vocal abilities and uniquely combines a blend of musical styles such as soul, gospel, country, rock, blues, and R&B. WANT TO GO? $35-$45. 914-739-0039 x2. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

‘Million Dollar Quartet’

WHEN: Sept. 1-14, Wednesday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theatre, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The new smash hit musical for the whole family inspired by a recording session with rock icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins. WANT TO GO? $50. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 3pm WHERE: Music Conservatory of Westchester, 215 Central Ave., White Plains AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Taconic Opera will host a fundraiser featuring soprano Francesca Mondanaro performing the female lead in Nabucco, Macbeth, and Norma. WANT TO GO? $50. 855-886-7372. taconicopera.org.

‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’

WHEN: Sept. 30-Oct. 10, see website for show times WHERE: New Victory Theatre, 229 W. 42nd St., Theater District, Manhattan AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The New Victory Theater opens its new season with a production of the Jules Verne science fiction tale, bringing together multimedia, projections, and technology to make the audience feel like they are under the sea, too. WANT TO GO? $16-$38. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

‘Saturday Night Fever’

WHEN: Sept. 15-Jan. 29, Wednesday-Sunady, 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, jam-packed with musical hits. WANT TO GO? $50. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com.

HOLIDAY FUN Grandparents Go Free

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 10am-9pm WHERE: Legoland Discovery Center Westchester, 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Have a great time building with your grandparents. WANT TO GO? $15.95$29.95; free for grandparents and children younger than 2. 866-243-0770. legolanddiscoverycenter.com.

Classical Music Concert

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 15, 7-8pm WHERE: Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, 895 Shore Road, Pelham Bay Park AGES: All WHAT: Kristina Giles and Rebecca Pechefsky, a violinist and harpsichordist, perform sonatas of the late Baroque period. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $20. 718-885-1461. bpmm.org.

‘Blood Type: Ragu’

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, 8pm WHERE: White Plains Performing Art Center, 11 City Place, White Plains AGES: 9 and older WHAT: An immigrant child’s dance between culture and identity. WANT TO GO? $24. 914-328-1600. wppac.com.

Ariel String Quartet

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 8pm WHERE: Westchester Community College Academic Arts Theatre, 75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla AGES: All 42

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Scarecrows and Pumpkins

WHEN: Sept. 17–Oct. 31, Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Botanical Gardens, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy this bountiful time of year with eye-popping pumpkins, spooky scarecrows, and plenty of family fun. WANT TO GO? $20; $18 seniors and students; $8 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 718-817-8716. nybg.org. ››

CityBound

Courtesy WHIDC

Must-Sees in N Y C

Medieval fun in 2016

Gallop Into History Get your armor ready, saddle up your horse, and gallop up to Fort Washington for the popular Medieval Festival at Fort Tyron Park. Great fun for families, there are performances, processions, music, food and drink, and medieval wares to buy. The main event is the armed combat and jousting competition in which wannabe Jon Snows will show you how it was done in olden times. A living history lesson for all ages. Sep. 18; 11:30am-6pm. Age: All. Fort Tyron Park, 741 Fort Washington Ave., Fort Washington. 212-7951600. whidc.org. Courtesy New Victory Theater

Mention Westchester Parent when registering and receive 10% oďŹ&#x20AC; your first lesson!

&=4Y!==Y=Y=F=G=X=!==I=H=W=V=Y=!==X=W=V=W=!== Private Music Lessons

Group & Ensemble Lessons Rock Band B2R Glee Club Early Childhood Classes Birthday Parties ...and more!

Go 20,000 leagues under Times Square with this eye catching new production

Find The Original Nemo The New Victory Theater opens its new season with a production of the Jules Verne science fiction classic, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. The atmospheric production has eye-catching special effects and uses multimedia and projections to bring the sea to the stage. Kids will learn about the infamous Captain Nemo and the tale of the Nautilus. For ages 8 and older due to complex story. Sep. 30-Oct. 10; see website for show times. $16-$38. New Victory Theater, 229 W. 42nd St., Times Square Theater District. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Bach to Rock Mamaroneck

130 Mamaroneck Ave BACHTOROCK.COM Mamaroneck 914.341.1457 a

877-227-8558 BachtoRock.com/Mamaroneck

WestchesterParent 43

9/11 MEMORIALS 15th Anniversary of September 11 FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, see website for times WHERE: National September 11 Memorial & Museum, 180 Greewich St., Financial District, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: As part of the commemoration the memorial plaza will again open to the general public so visitors may view the Tribute in Light and pay their respects. WANT TO GO? 212-266-5211. 911memorial.org.

Tribute In Light FREE

CRAFTY KIDS Mini Art Camp

WHEN: Sept. 6-9, Tuesday-Friday, 9am-1pm WHERE: Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Ave., Pelham AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Each day, groups of no more than 15 students make art and do movement activities together and individually. WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 914-738-2525 x111. pelhamartcenter.org.

Kids Craft Activity FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 10, 9am-12pm WHERE: Down to Earth Farmers’ Market, Main and Spring streets, Ossining AGES: 3-12 WHAT: A fun, hands-on activity for kids to keep busy while you shop around the market. WANT TO GO? 914-923-4837. downtoearthmarkets.com.

Family Art Project: Ecological Landscapes

WHEN: Sept. 17-18, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Invent your own mini ecological landscape system with clay, rocks, sticks, and more. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 3-18. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Handmade Pop-Up Books

WHEN: Sept. 24-25, Satruday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: To celebrate Roald Dahl’s 100th anniversary, make a pop-up nature book. Then enjoy a performance by a lively storyteller. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children ages 6-18; free for children younger than 6. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 11, dusk WHERE: National September 11 Memorial & Museum, 180 Greewich St., Financial District, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Visible within a 60-mile radius on a clear night, Tribute In Light has become anicon of remembrance, honoring those who were lost, as well as those who worked so hard to get our city through that terrible trial. WANT TO GO? mas.org/programs/tributeinlight.

ONCE UPON A TIME! Tales for Tails FREE

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 8, 6pm WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children in first grade and older are invited to read to a certified Good Dog. Sign-up is required. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Tales for Tots FREE

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 16, 11am WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Drop in for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun in this interactive storytime. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Storytime with the Wolves

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 22, 10-11am WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run St., South Salem AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Enjoy a story with the wolves. Dress for the weather. WANT TO GO? $12; $10. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Story Walk FREE

WHEN: Sept. 4-25, Sundays, 10am WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Read a nature story as you walk along the trails. WANT TO GO? 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Book Babies FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 28, 11am WHERE: Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-5 WHAT: An interactive program for the littlest library lovers and their caregivers. Enjoy stories, songs, puppets, and play time. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Ask About Our Toddler Open Gym Programs! A walk in, non-instructional playtime for crawlers to 4 year olds

Gymnastics Benefits Your Child's • Skills to enhance other sports • Self Esteem • Coordination • Strength • Flexibility & More!

Gymnastics Classes

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

Fall

Private Birthday Parties

Air castles • Trampolines • Giant Slide Obstacles Courses, foam filled pit & more All of our famous parties are private, and our interactive staff will make your child’s party a very special one.

One Odell Plaza, Yonkers/Hastings border Located At

(exit 9 oﬀ Saw Mill River Pkwy)

914-965-7676 gymcats.net

Ask About Special Needs!

Take a FREE Trial Class! vement • Friends • Puppets • Fun o Music • M n r a e i n g • I n s t r u m e n t s • S t o r i e s • Pr o p s S ongs • L

Experienced, Nurturing Teachers Fun-Filled Classes

Music, Movement & Friends Age-Specific Curriculum

Celebrating 30+ years of making music and memories

914-771-7000 • www.musicalmunchkins.com WestchesterParent 45

Curtain Call, Inc. Performance Classes in cooperation with The City of Stamford

For more than 25 years, Stamford’s longest-running, professionally operated, non-profit, theatre has offered year-round classes and educational programs for young and old!

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival

CLASSES SEPTEMBER THRU DECEMBER

Study acting for the stage, TV and film, dance, improv, musical theatre AND MORE! Specialized classes for kids five and up, teens and adults. We can even design a class for your school, business or civic group.

203-329-8207 x16 curtaincallinc.com

Sterling Farms Theatre Complex 1349 Newfield Ave. Stamford, CT 06905

WHEN: Through Sept. 5: Friday-Tuesday, 7:30pm WHERE: Boscobel House and Garden, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison AGES: All WHAT: See Measure for Measure, As You Like It, Macbeth, or Our Town on the Great Lawn of historic Boscobel House. The picnic begins at 5:30pm and show starts at 7:30pm. WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 845-265-9575. hvshakespeare.org.

68th Annual Herb Fair

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 15, 11am-2pm WHERE: John Jay Homestead, 400 Route 22, Katonah AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy gourmet foods, baked goods, and lots of herbs, along with books, and gifts. WANT TO GO? Free admission. 914-232-5651. johnjayhomestead.org.

Medieval Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 18, 11:30am-6pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park, 741 Fort Washington Ave., Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Rub the rust off thy armor, iron thy chain mail, gird thy loins, and polish up on ye chivalry as this popular festival gallops into Fort Tyron Park for another year. WANT TO GO? 212-795-1600. whidc.org.

Fall Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 11am-4pm WHERE: Fieldhome, 2276 Catherine St., Cortlandt Manor AGES: All WHAT: Check out the classic car show, the kids’ zone with inflatable rides, pumpkin decorating, face painting, petting zoo, pony rides, farmers’ market, bake sale, and more. WANT TO GO? 914-737-2255. fieldhome.com.

Green Chimneys Fall Harvest Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 10am-4pm WHERE: Green Chimneys, 400 Doansburg Road, Brewster AGES: All WHAT: Kick off autumn with Green Chimneys’ annual Fall Harvest Festival with fun-filled and educational activities for the entire family including pumpkin decorating, holiday crafts, hayrides, and a hay maze. WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 845-279-2995. greenchimneys.org/fallharvest.

Little Red Lighthouse Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 24, 12-4pm WHERE: Fort Washington Park, West 181 Street and Plaza Lafayette, Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the famous lighthouse at this festival, which features readings of the book that saved the lighthouse, tours, fishing clinics, live music, family activities, and food. WANT TO GO? riversideparknyc.org. 46

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

yrs. of Fun, Frien ds, & Fitness!

Grea t Pe rks Fo r Me m be rs

Fo r K id s 9 mos to 1 2 y rs

Nothing Else Even Comes Close! Gymnastics • Ninja • 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

ENROLL NOW FOR FALL CLASSES! AGES 0-18

BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR AGES 1-12

(FORMERLY APPLAUSE WESTCHESTER — NOW OWNED BY HEATHER AND PETER CAPELLE) ARTISTREEARTS.COM - (914) 835-2200 - 114 W. BOSTON POST RD. MAMARONECK

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

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 47

Concerned about Kindergarten?

Will your child get the attention they need in such a large class setting? Will the fast-paced curriculum, homework and testing make them anxious? Will they have ample time to play and the freedom to explore and enjoy nature?

At Blue Rock, we give children the time and space to explore the world around them in a warm and nurturing environment. The only progressive school in the Lower Hudson Valley,

Kindergarten Information Session and Play Day

Saturday, October 29, 10 am to 12pm. Children encouraged to attend! Register by calling 845-535-3353 or at admissions@bluerockschool.org

MOVERS & SHAKERS Sunset Yoga in the Park FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6:30pm WHERE: Tibbets Brook Park, 355 Midland Park, Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy outdoor yoga in the park. WANT TO GO? 914-231-2865. parks.westchestergov.com.

Family Fun and Fitness Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 17, call for times WHERE: A Game Sports, 856 Main St., New Rochelle AGES: All WHAT: Try out Bubble Soccer, speak to a nutritionist, and learn about health and wellness. WANT TO GO? 914-278-9477. agamesports.net.

2nd Annual Dylan J. Hoffman Memorial Walk and Touch a Truck Event WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 25, 11am WHERE: Grounds of Maria Fareri Childrens Hospital, 80 Woods Road, Valhalla AGES: All WHAT: Benefitting the Ronald McDonald House of the Greater Hudson Valley, the second annual Dylan J. Hoffman Memorial Walk will have a firetruck and more for kids to enjoy. WANT TO GO? $30 sign-up fee. 914-493-5824. rmh-ghv.org.

Free Week of Dance FREE

WHEN: Sept. 26-Oct. 1, Monday-Saturday, see website for times WHERE: Steffi Nossen School of Dance, 216 Central Ave., White Plains AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Try unlimited age and level appropriate classes during open house week with classes in modern, ballet, jazz, tap, and hip-hop. WANT TO GO? 914-328-1900. steffinossen.org.

Coming up next month: MONTH OF OCTOBER: Pumpkins, Playful, and Plentiful, NY Botanical Gardens, Bronx THROUGH OCTOBER: Saturday Night Fever, Westchester Broadway Theater, Elmsford OCT. 22: The Giver, Westchester Community College, Valhalla

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

DISCOVER Westchester’s Theatre for Children and Teens

Get in on the ACT! this season and all year long

A Therapeutic Day School for the Underachieving Student

Dedicated to helping students overcome academic difficulties and personal obstacles, through carefully designed programs for individual achievement.

Students come to us for the following reasons: • Underachievement, despite being bright • AD/HD, Learning disabilities • Social-emotional problems Our New Address in September

www.playgroup.org | 914-946-4433

1 North Greenwich Rd Armonk, New York 10504 (914) 967-2530 Website: www.westfieldschools.info Email: wdsinfo@optonline.net

Sunday, September 18, 2016 11am - 5pm Ulster County Fairgrounds, Libertyville Road, New Paltz T

w Pa f Ne t o 016 l 2

Children's Swimming Progam Learn to Swim (Levels 1-6) Parent & Child Lessons (6 mos. & up) Adult Lessons (All Levels) Springboard Diving Private Lessons Snorkeling Classes Discover SCUBA Classes SCUBA Certification Lifeguarding Certification

Upcoming Sessions Fall 1: Sept. 14 - Oct. 23 Fall 2: Oct. 26 - Dec. 11

(no class Nov. 23-27;Thanksgiving)

Winter 3: Feb. 1 - March 12

(we will have class for President Week)

Spring 4: March 15 - May 7 (no class April 8-16; Spring Break)

All of our instructors are American Red Cross-trained Water Safety Instructors For more information contact: Christine Klint christine.klint@purchase.edu | 914-251-5939 www.purchaseaquatics.weebly.com

pony rides, petting zoo, crafts, great food from local restaurants, craft beer & local spirits! learn more at tasteofnewpaltz.com

2016

26 years

WestchesterParent 49

WHERE-TO GUIDE

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Pick Your Own Apples ››

Research by Megan Bailey, Lauren Diaz, and Melissa Wickes

Bite into crunchy, juicy, just-picked apples this month! A day trip to a local orchard yields fresh fruit to take home by the bucket, sweet pastries and baked goods (apple cider doughnuts, please!), and lots of kid-friendly perks, from hayrides to petting zoos. Grown-ups: Some farms even serve up hard cider and homemade wines! Note that dates are projected and availability is subject to change. We recommend calling ahead before visiting these locations. refundable deposit and $2 rental fee. Farm store with baked goods, apple cider, and doughnuts open 8am-6pm. Pick-your-own group tours are available by appointment. Orange County

Apple Dave’s Orchards 82 Four Corners Road, Warwick 845-986-1684 applewoodorchards.com Apple picking Labor Day through October, pumpkin picking in October; 9am-5pm daily. Farm store and winery on-site.

Harvest Moon Farm and Orchards 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem 914-485-1210 harvestmoonfarmandorchard.com Apple picking begins after Labor Day (call for availability). Fresh pies, doughnuts, produce, and local honey, local dairy products, and maple syrup for sale, as well as New York state wines and spirits and the farm’s own hard cider. Open 8am6pm daily. Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights 914-245-5111; wilkensfarm.com Apple picking through mid-October, 10am-4:30pm daily. Farm market with apple cider, baked goods, pre-picked produce, and gifts. Outhouse Orchards 139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem 914-277-3188 outhouseorchardsny.com Apple picking begins the weekend after

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Labor Day, 9am-5pm daily while supplies last. Fresh cider for sale, hayrides, and corn maze on-site, and a pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Rockland County

Dr. Davies Farm 306 Route 304, Congers 845-268-7020; drdaviesfarm.com Labor Day through mid-November, open 10am-4:30pm daily for pick-your-own. Hayrides offered weekends 11am-5pm; weekdays by appointment ($5 per person). Farm market open 8:30am-5:30pm. Picnic fields on-site. Cash and checks only. Orchards of Concklin 2 S. Mountain Road (off Route 45), Pomona 845-354-0369 theorchardsofconcklin.com Open the last two Sundays in September and the first two Sundays in October, 10am-5pm. Picking poles available; $5

Apple Ridge Orchards 101 Jessup Road, Warwick 845-987-7717 appleridgeorchards.com Pick your own apples in the fall, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, by school group reservations only (call or visit the website); weekends and holidays, 9am6pm. Dwarf apple trees make picking easy for kids. Hay wagon rides, farm animals for petting, glass observation honey beehive, and farm store with fresh-pressed cider and homemade cider doughnuts. Lawrence Farms Orchards 39 Colandrea Road, Newburgh 845-562-4268 lawrencefarmsorchards.com Apple and pumpkin picking through October, plus pick-your-own grapes, peppers, cabbage, and other vegetables. Train rides through the village on the weekends, plus a hay bale maze every day from September-October, playhouse farm village open daily, and animals for petting. Country store with honey, preserves, hot cider, ice cream, and homemade doughnuts. Open 9am-4pm daily. Masker Orchards 45 Ball Road, Warwick 845-986-1058; maskers.com

Apple picking Labor Day weekend through early November, 9am-5pm daily. Bags provided. Free admission and parking. Country store with honey, preserves, and country gifts on-site. Picnic areas available. Pony rides, live music, haunted house, and maze for children on weekends (call for starting dates). Ochs Orchard 4 Ochs Lane (off Route 94), Warwick 845-986-1591 ochsorchard.net Apple picking in September and October; U-pick pumpkins, tomatoes, and other vegetables through October. Farm stand with prepicked fruits and vegetables, apple cider, homemade doughnuts, preserves, maple syrup, jams and jellies, and honey. Pies available on weekends. Homemade ice cream for sale. Small petting zoo. Open 9am-5pm daily. Store open until 6pm. Pennings Farm Market and Orchard 161 Route 94 S., Warwick 845-986-1059 penningsfarmmarket.com Apple picking Labor Day weekend through the second week of November, 9am5pm daily. Pumpkins on sale from late September through October. Weekend hayrides and petting zoo. Ice cream stand, pub, and café with full menu. For apple picking information, call 845-986-7080. Soons Orchard & Farm Market 23 Soons Circle, New Hampton 845-374-5471 soonsorchards.com Apple picking Labor Day weekend through October, 10am-4pm on weekends and Monday holidays. Dwarf trees ideal for kids. Store with prepicked fruit and vegetables, fresh-pressed apple cider and

doughnuts, fudge, and baked goods open 9am-6pm.

Connecticut Fairfield County

Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard, LLC 278 Leavenworth Road (Route 110), Shelton 203-926-1098 beardsleyscidermill.com

Farm opens in September; check the website for exact opening date. Apple picking: 10am-5pm weekends. Cash or check only. Dwarf apple trees for easy picking. Cider press on location. Farm store with apple cider and doughnuts, maple syrup, local honey, pumpkin cheesecake, fruit butter, jams, and jellies.

Silverman’s Farm 451 Sport Hill Road, Easton 203-261-3306 silvermansfarm.com Apple picking through midOctober, 9:30am-4:30pm daily. Pumpkins available midSeptember to October. Animal petting park, farm market, greenhouse, and tractor rides through October.

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

Truly unparalleled care State-of-the-art-equipment including LASER DENTISTRY! Avoid shots & drills! Ask for

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WestchesterParent 51

Back-to-School A-Game Sports

856 Main St., New Rochelle 914-278-9477 agamesports.net Back to school means back to sports this fall at A-Game! For kids ages 2-16, A-Game Sports, located at 856 Main St. in New Rochelle, offers an array of clinics starting this September for kids looking to hone their skills on the field. Get your child A-Game ready with clinics featuring top-level instructors in T-ball, baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, field hockey, and flag football. Visit agamesports.net or call 914-278-9477 for details. Spots fill up fast so register now!

Academic Coaching & Tutoring John Montgomery, Ph.D.

917-244-5161 homeostasispsychology.com john@johnmontgomery.com We help students overcome a variety of blocks that may keep them from fulfilling their academic potential, such as procrastination, test-taking anxiety, lack of confidence, and lack of focus. Our powerful method, developed by John Montgomery, Ph.D., a psychology professor at New York University, provides tools that help students disengage from specific thought and behavior patterns that can impede academic success. Students will also be given extensive help with their schoolwork when needed, and will typically complete a substantial amount of work during the sessions. Call for a free consultation.

Acura of Westchester

2155 Palmer Ave., Larchmont 1-888-928-3008 acuraofwestchester.com Serving Westchester County for 30 years, we pride ourselves on providing superior service and strive to make you a forever client at Acura of Westchester. We have a great selection of new and pre-owned vehicles to fit your needs, whether that means driving to school, work, or gearing up for a road trip! With

top safety ratings and seven-passenger SUVs, you are guaranteed to find the perfect vehicle at Acura of Westchester. We are a five-star rated dealership and are proud supporters of the local community. Visit us today at acuraofwestchester.com!

Alef Bet Preschool Chabad Hebrew School

1228 North Ave., New Rochelle 914-712-8332 alefbetschool.com chabadofwestchester.com alefbetschool@gmail.com Alef Bet Preschool uses a progressive approach to educate young children in a stimulating environment, helping them grow into empathetic, capable learners for life. Schedule a tour of our newly renovated New Rochelle site with lightfilled classrooms and a natural playground. Chabad Hebrew School offers pre-K through high school classes. In a stimulating, yet friendly environment, students learn Hebrew language and prayers and become familiar with the Jewish holidays and customs. Children gain a true sense of Jewish pride and of their Jewish roots, no matter their level of observance or affiliation.

All Aboard Childcare Education Centers

All Aboard on-the-Hudson 255 North Highland Ave., Ossining 914-923-1700 All Aboard at Valhalla 400 Columbus Ave., Valhalla 914-741-1500 allaboardchildcare.com All Aboard Childcare Education Centers, family-owned and -operated since 1996. All Aboard provides a safe, secure, child-centered environment for infants, toddlers, pre-K, and school-age children. All Aboard creates a hands-on, developmental curriculum for infants and toddlers as well as a pre-K curriculum designed to meet NYS kindergarten readiness standards. Degreed and certified staff, nutritious meals, and many enrichment

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

The annual guide to schools, resources, programs, & activities for kids!

programs round out this quality educational program. Best of Westchester in Childcare 2014.

American Gymnastics Gym Care Nursery School

317 Railroad Ave., Bedford Hills 914-241-1997 americangymnastics.us amerigym@aol.com Our programs are for children of all ages, at all levels, with all kinds of dreams…Olympic and otherwise. Everyone from infants to boys and girls who are part of our award-winning competitive team program, receives gymnastics instruction from certified professionals, who collectively have more than 100 years of coaching experience. The year ends with a huge Class Exhibition. It’s fun and a great opportunity for all of our gymnasts to show off their skills. American Gymnastics is also the home of our Gym-Care Nursery School. We encourage children to reach for the stars!

Ann and Andy Child Care

2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-3027 annandandychildcare.com annandydca@aol.com Each child is considered on two levels: first, as an individual, and then as a member of the group. The specific needs of a child are addressed with the help of regular communication and consultation with parents. On a group level, the child is a member of a community, which offers the opportunity for social growth while providing a structure in which to find security and safety. Regularly planned group activities are designed to meet the natural, physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of children at play.

Artistree Performing Arts

114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-835-2200 artistreearts.com heather@artistreearts.com Artistree Performing Arts is a performing arts studio offering classes for children ages new-

born to 18. We strive to foster a community of performers who can build confidence and friendships in a supportive and engaging environment. Artistree offers everything from Broadway and rock music classes for babies to preschool performing classes, after-school classes in acting, film, and musical theater, and performance workshops for middle and high school students. Whether your child is on a pre-professional track or just loves to sing and dance, we have the class or workshop to fit his or her needs.

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! We believe that learning to play music should be fun, after all it’s called “play” for a reason! B2R’s curriculum couples individual instruction with dynamic group classes. Our unique method is based on the knowledge that students learn best when they join together to play the music they like the most. Classes available for students as young as 6 months through adults, as well as birthday parties and weekly camps. Unleash your inner rock star today!

Bakshi Law

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

education and offer assistance on a sliding scale for parents experiencing financial difficulties.

Belle School of Music

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

Blue Rock School

is evident in her friendly manner and calm demeanor. The dental team truly enjoys working with kids and will treat your child with warmth and compassion. The practice participates in many dental insurance plans and has convenient after-school and Saturday appointments available.

The Children’s Jewish Education Group SUNY Purchase

914-864-1267 cjeg.org Looking for a Jewish education for your child without joining

a synagogue? CJEG is a community-based school that emphasizes Jewish cultural studies, tradition, history, and holidays, for children in kindergarten-seventh grades. We provide a professional teaching staff supported by a parent coop administration in an open, warm, relaxed, and affordable environment. Bar and bat mitzvah lessons are also available. Classes are held Sunday mornings at the SUNY Purchase campus. For more information, please visit our website: cjeg.org.

City Center Dance

98 Lake St., White Plains 914-328-1881 citycenterdance.com Specializing in dance classes for children ages 3-18, City Center Dance provides professional dance instruction in a positive, fun atmosphere. We are centrally located in White Plains, right in the heart of Westchester County. We offer after-school dance classes including ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, pointe, and pre-pointe, as well as special classes for precontinued on next page ››

TWENTY THOUSAND LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA Kidoons/WYRD Productions in association with The 20K Collective

Sept 30 – Oct 10 FOR EVERYONE AGES 8+

110 Demarest Mill Road, West Nyack 845-627-0234 bluerockschool.org Blue Rock School is the Lower Hudson Valley’s only progressive school, serving students in kindergarten-eighth grade. We offer a unique educational experience based on a handson and holistic approach that nurtures children’s innate love of learning, enabling them to follow their own natural curiosity and develop as independent thinkers. At Blue Rock, class sizes are small and students engage in a challenging and creative academic curriculum, which is infused with the arts, nature, and play.

Caring for Kids Dr. Ivis Getz

140 Lockwood Ave., Suite 315, New Rochelle 914-355-2265 caringpediatricdentistry.com caringpediatricdentistry@gmail.com Dr. Ivis Getz, a board-certified pediatric dentist, is committed to providing the highest quality dental care to infants, children, adolescents, and those with special needs. Dr. Getz recognizes that each child is a unique individual who deserves compassion and respect, which

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Oct 14 – 30 BEST FOR AGES 4–7

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A NEW 42ND STREET ® PROJECT

646.223.3010

PHOTOS: CRAIG FRANCIS, HELEN MURRAY

209 W 42ND STREET just west of Broadway

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schoolers and kindergarteners. Specialty workshops are offered seasonally, including acro. Additional offerings include children’s birthday parties, master classes, and performance opportunities. City Center Dance…where dance is an art form, not a competition!

Clay Art Center

40 Beech St., Port Chester 914-937-2047 x222 clayartcenter.org leigh@clayartcenter.org Create. Connect. Be inspired. Clay Art Center is a nonprofit ceramic art center in Port Chester offering clay classes for adults and children yearround as well as private lessons and parties. This fall we’re offering a fabulous line-up of after-school and weekend clay classes for children, tweens, teens, and families. Fall classes start Sept. 19. Or join us for Saturday Drop-In Clay Class, a great afternoon with family or friends for ages 5-99! Visit our gallery and shop, featur-

ing one-of-a-kind pottery and sculpture, open Monday–Saturday, 10am–6pm.

Comprehensive Dental Group Dr. Jeffrey Simon, Dr. Rose Amable, and Dr. Ira Berman

2001 Palmer Ave., Larchmont 914-834-0220 cdg4.net cdg2001@optonline.net Comprehensive Dental Group is dedicated to giving our patients healthy and happy smiles. We are a highly trained and educated team of dentists, pediatric dental specialists, hygienists, and support staff practicing in Westchester for more than 30 years. As a team we deliver premier quality and technologically advanced general, pediatric, and orthodontic services with compassion and integrity. We have convenient after-school and weekend appointments, and participate in many dental plans. We pride ourselves on providing personalized and gentle dental care to children of all ages and the whole family.

252 Soundview Ave., White Plains 914-949-4717 nykolami.org Children learn best through play and experimentation. Our Early Childhood Program provides opportunities for these learning experiences within a warm, accepting, and nurturing environment. We recognize and respect each child’s unique qualities and strive to foster their growth and development in all aspects; cognitive, physical, social, and emotional. Through rich and welcoming surroundings, complemented with consistent routines and exploratory play opportunities, we inspire children to grow at their own pace, realizing their full potential. Come feel the warm sense of community here at Early Childhood Program of Congregation Kol Ami.

Curtain Call Inc.

1349 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 203-329-8207 x16 Administration: 203-329-8207

Box Office: 203-461-6358 curtaincallinc.com brian@curtaincallinc.com Curtain Call Inc. is Stamford’s longest-running, nonprofit theater providing year-round performances and classes. Classes are available for ages 5 through adult after school, evenings, and weekends in acting for the stage, TV and film, comedy, improv, musical theater, Broadway tap, and Shakespeare. Full-day vacation programs are also available for ages 6-16. Our faculty consists of area professionals dedicated to arts education. We can also design a workshop for your before- or after-school program, business, or civic group. Call 203-329-8207 x16 or visit curtaincallinc.com. “Where acting out is encouraged!”

Dance & Theater Arts Studios

145 Palisade St., #376, Dobbs Ferry 914-231-9179 danceandtheaterarts.com A process-oriented performing arts school at which students learn how to achieve excellence

N PE SE U

O HO

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

Scarsdale 27 Crane Road 914-472-4404 54

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

www.alcottschool.org Dobbs Ferry 535 Broadway 914-693-4443

Scarsdale 46 Fox Meadow Road 914-595-7551

through self-discipline and the mastery of technique. Experience the joy of achievement through our unique programs of dance, voice, and acting classes at affordable prices. Get prepared for success before you step out on stage at open mic night or in musical shows and plays, with the training and confidence you’ll gain in a positive learning environment. Come nurture and explore your inner artist (ages 3 to adult), and register for a class today!

Dicker Reading Method

75 Brook St., Scarsdale 914-472-0600 dickerreading.com Our revolutionary reading program will teach any child to read, even children diagnosed with a learning disability, dyslexia, ADD, or ADHD. Whether your child is reading above, below, or at grade level, he or she will accomplish 3-6 years of reading achievement in just 1 year. Parents will see immediate improvement in reading achievement, comprehension, and vocabulary development. More than 10,000 children from preschool to 12th grade have accomplished these remarkable results. Your child’s grades, confidence, and self-esteem will soar as they learn to love reading and school.

East Pointe Dance

11 Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook 914-202-2200 eastpointedance.com alyse@eastpointedance.com East Pointe Dance fall registration is happening now! We offer a fantastic program for dancers who want to enhance their technique and not feel overwhelmed with living at the studio! Choose from ballet and pointe, jazz, tap, contemporary, and hip-hop. New students ages 8 and older that want to join our ballet program must be evaluated. One of the few schools in the area that puts on a full-length ballet. Check out our Pay to Play Room! We host birthday parties too! Parents Night Out the third Friday each month!

Easter Seals New York Project Explore, Project Imagine, and Project Inspire 70 Columbus Ave., Valhalla 914-328-1578

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

Come join the fun!

Registrations now being accepted for our 2016-17 Season

Girl AGain

4 Martine Ave., White Plains 914-358-1460 girlagain.com girlagain@yesshecaninc.org Girl AGain is a resale boutique for gently used American Girl dolls including historical characters, Girl of the Year, Just Like You dolls, furniture, outfits, and accessories. Books about girls from history and advice books such as Care and Keeping of You. Workshops for girls ages 7-14 held on weekends include doll hair techniques, crafts, author readings, and writing. Register at girlagain.com/events. Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 11am-5pm; Saturday, 10am5pm; and Sunday, 11am-4pm. Free parking available. Operated by Yes She Can, a nonprofit helping young women with autism develop job skills.

Classes for ages 3-18

Pre-school to Professional

Trial Sessions Available

914-941-2939 | www.LogreaDance.com Ossining, NY

Great Play of Scarsdale Interactive Gym for Kids

969B Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-713-3470 greatplay.com/scarsdale Great Play is a Family Favorites Winner three years in a row, and kidsoutandabout.com’s Top Place to Take Kids in Westchester for 2016. Great Play makes it insanely fun for kids, ages 6 months to fifth grade, to develop motor and sport skills, fitness, and coordination! Great Play’s unique curriculum of directed play and its patented Interactive Arena™ help children continued on next page ››

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develop age-appropriate skills, while having a blast. Customers rave about it! Fantastic birthday parties, too! Call for a free trial!

GYMBOREE Play & Music of Scarsdale

450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-472-0192 Route 6 and Hill Blvd., Yorktown gymboreeclasses.com/ scarsdaleny.site scarsdaleny@gymboreeclasses.com Gymboree Play & Music has been fostering learning, creativity, and confidence in children ages newborn to 5 for almost 40 years. Gymboree offers classes in play and learn, art, music, sports, preschool, and a new 2-year-old separation program, Preschool Steps. All classes at Gymboree enjoy unlimited free open gyms five to seven days per week, and Gymboree store discounts with enrollment, as well as special events and birthday parties. Previews are offered in all classes. As Gymboree likes to say, “All of America goes to Gymboree!”

GymCats Gymnastics and Birthday Party Center

1 Odell Plaza at Equalize Fitness, Yonkers 914-965-7676 gymcats.net At GymCats Gymnastics, children learn the skills and confidence they need to become better athletes and individuals. Exciting gymnastics classes are offered for boys and girls, ages 20 months to teens, as well as recreational to advanced classes, private lessons, cheer classes, toddler open gym for crawlers up to walkers, and summer camp. GymCats is home to our own All Star Cheer Team, the GC Xtreme All Stars! We are also famous for our unique private birthday parties. Our enthusiastic interactive staff makes your child’s party memorable.

Hartsdale Family Eyecare

221 E. Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale 914-725-1600 hartsdalefamilyeyecare.com Featured on ABC News, Dr. Schwartz has more than 35 years of experience treating children’s vision. Many vision problems are often undetect-

ed during routine screenings. Warning signs include avoiding reading, poor comprehension, or re-reading words. Dr. Schwartz can determine if visual problems exist and prescribe special reading glasses, prism glasses, or vision therapy. Dr. Schwartz also prescribes special eyeglasses or contact lenses to stop vision from getting worse. Your child may be a candidate for orthokeratology, a non-surgical eye treatment using specially designed lenses to gently correct vision during sleep.

Annie Pipia and Joann Distler, directors 151 Crotona Ave., Harrison 914-835-0010 isggymnastics.com ISG Gymnastics, serving the community for 40 years, is a family-run business where the kids come first! Classes for children, ages 10 months through high school. Ongoing registration. Birthday parties available. Girls’ team and camps. Call for information and start your child toward a healthy future today.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School

999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale 914-472-3300 jccmw.org Education at the JCC of Mid-Westchester: Preschoolers benefit from full-service nursery schools, professional teaching staff, a year-round indoor pool, fitness programs, arts programs, and special needs programs. All under one roof! Early dropoff, late pickup. The Summer Art Center continues all year, providing a non-competitive, nurturing environment for children with a passion for the arts. The Dance School provides programs for preschoolers, teens, and adults. The Academic Center offers everything you need to prepare kids for college. Arrange for a tour: info@jccmw. org; 914-472-3300; jccmw.org.

25 School Lane, Scarsdale 914-723-1169 hbms.org hb@hbms.org HBMS inspires and develops each student’s potential through excellence in music education with a commitment to creativity, collaboration, and community. The music school offers a comprehensive music program of individualized instruction, ensembles, and group classes in both classical music and jazz idioms in combination with a sequential musicianship curriculum. Children ages 12 months and older begin with group lessons that are fun, engaging, and lay the framework for more formal study. Older students can enjoy a program of individual lessons, ensembles, and musicianship classes.

Hudson Country Montessori School

340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 914-636-6202 hudsoncountry.org Children learn to observe, think, judge, and pursue interests at their own pace. Exposed to physical and mental order, and working with materials with a purposeful design in a calm atmosphere fosters concentration, creativity, self-respect, and a solid academic foundation. Hudson’s unique approach allows children to develop their skills while pursuing their interests. Programs are available for children ages 18 months through eighth grade, with extended hours available from 7:30am-6pm.

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

JCC of Mid-Westchester

Jewish Community Center of Harrison

Ann Pardes, early childhood director 130 Union Ave., Harrison 914-835-2850 jcch.org The JCC of Harrison Early Childhood Center offers programs for toddlers through pre-K. Bright, modern classrooms, an indoor gym, and outside playground are on the nature-filled grounds. This year we’re highlighting a new outdoor classroom and gardening program. Professionally trained, warm, nurturing teachers provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum across all educational domains. Morning programs and afternoon enrichment classes are available. OCFS licensed. Call or email us to arrange a visit. You’ll be glad you did!

Jodi’s Gym

25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 244 E. 84th St., Manhattan 212-772-7633 jodisgym.com Jodi’s Gym has been providing New York kids the highest level of fun and fitness for more than three decades! A step-bystep, no-fail approach ensures that every child feels a sense of accomplishment. From the tiniest tumblers to advanced gymnasts (ages 9 months to 12 years), there is something for everyone. Programs include parent and child gym classes, gymnastics (ages 3-12 years), Ninja Challenge, Music Together, summer and holiday break camps, free playtime and perks for members, play groups, private lessons, and the best birthday parties ever.

Kumon

1-800-ABC-MATH (222-6284) kumon.com Kumon is an after-school math and reading enrichment program that unlocks the potential of children, so they can achieve more on their own. The learning method uses an individualized approach that helps children in preschool through high school develop a solid command of math and reading skills. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration, and develop better study skills. Kumon has 26,000 centers in 48 countries and more than four million students studying worldwide. Visit kumon.com today to find your local center or call 1-800-ABC-MATH.

The Lice Lady of Westchester

914-497-5465 theliceladyofwestchester.com thelicelady@aol.com Anna Albano Krosche, The Lice Lady of Westchester, is a natural lice and nit removal specialist. Since 1998, she has eradicated lice and nits from thousands of children and their families with her all-natural, chemical-free lice removal technique. After experiencing the frustration of head lice with her own children 15 years ago, it became clear to Anna there was a great need for someone to help. Salon visits or in-home

head lice removal appointments are available. She is highly recommended by her clients, school nurses, and pediatricians throughout Westchester.

LiceXchange The No-Lip-Service Lice Service

Debra L. Rosen, owner and operator 917-657-0249 licexchange.com debrarosen@licexchange.com LiceXchange treats head lice exclusively in the privacy of your home as inexpensively as possible. Experienced, conscientious, and kind staff will put your children at ease applying all the tools of the trade without the use of pesticides! We stand by all our work, as long as “active” cases with lice follow our protocol. Founder Debra L. Rosen, has been successfully caring for schools and camps throughout the tristate region for more than 15 years, stressing “prevention” over treatment. LiceXchange, “Where an age-old problem gets the Royal Treatment.”

The Little Gym

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

Logrea Dance Academy

2 Dale Ave., Ossining 914-941-2939 logreadance.com Logrea Dance Academy (school of the Westchester Ballet Company) inspires students of all ages and abilities to achieve their highest potentials, through training in classical ballet, as well as jazz, tap, and modern. Founded in 1986 by professional dancers, Beth Fritz-Logrea and Jean Logrea, LDA offers classes for students age 3 through advanced, by an all-professional staff. Annual Nutcracker and scholarship auditions are held each fall, and all students have the opportunity to participate in performances of the highest artistic standard.

Magic Cuts for Kids

159 E. Main St., New Rochelle 914-813-8142 Magic Cuts for Kids is the salon just for your kids where the haircuts are cool and fun rules! Owner Sonia Munguia has been cutting children’s hair for more than 11 years. Her hair salon has an atmosphere that is totally kid-friendly, including fun chairs, DVDs and cable TV, cartoons, and XBOX. Baby gets a certificate for the first haircut. The 10th haircut is free for all. Bring your kids, baby to teenager, to Magic Cuts for Kids for a great haircut and a fun experience. Lots of great hair accessories too.

TEMPLE ISRAEL CENTER NURSERY SCHOOL

Main Street Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Penny Resnick-Graulich

115 Main St., Suite 302, Tuckahoe 914-633-4440 mainstreetpediatricdentistry.com drpennydds@aol.com Dr. Penny Resnick-Graulich has been practicing children’s dentistry in Westchester for more than 20 years. Dr. Penny and her amazing staff pride themselves on making the entire dental experience a positive one for children, infants through teens, and their parents. They help anxious children feel secure during dental treatment and make every patient feel calm, confident, and comfortable, while promoting optimal oral health care. Special attention is given to those children with medical, physical, emotional, and mental disabilities. Their continued on next page ››

Nurturing & Creative Environment

Come check out our beautiful, newly renovated classrooms!

Mommy & Me Programs • 2, 3, 4 Year Old Classes Afternoon Enrichment Programs & Lunch Programs Judaic Program • Nature, Music & Movement Specialists Early morning drop off Stay & Play extended hours until 4pm Mon-Thu and 2:30 on Friday Licensed by the NYS Ofﬁce of Children and Family Services (OCFS) Call Patty Goldstick at (914) 948-2800 x126 280 Old Mamaroneck Rd. White Plains www.templeisraelcenter.org

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goal is to make your child an expert in preventative dentistry.

Mathnasium

747 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-725-MATH (6284) mathnasium.com scarsdale@mathnasium.com Mathnasium makes math make sense! The goal is to significantly increase your child’s math skills, understanding of math concepts, and overall school performance, while building confidence and forging a positive attitude toward the subject. Using sophisticated techniques to determine what a student does and does not know, they tailor-make a personalized and prescriptive learning program. Each student follows the program with the help of specially trained Mathnasium math tutors, who provide instruction and lots of encouragement. At Mathnasium, the mission is simple: to teach children math the way that makes sense to them.

The Milestone School

70 W. Broad St., Mount Vernon 914-667-3478 themilestoneschool.com Founded in 1979 on the premise that “the first years of a child’s education are the most important,” The Milestone School is an independent, non-sectarian, nursery through fourth-grade school. Celebrating 35 years of excellence, our unique, stimulating academic environment emphasizing “Early Reading” prepares students to continue on to top private schools in Westchester and NYC. Emphasizing the basics, our curriculum allows our children to explore many areas including chess, music, Spanish, yoga, and drama. Milestone provides the enriching, nurturing experience every child needs and deserves to succeed.

Music Conservatory of Westchester

216 Central Ave., White Plains 914-761-3900 musicconservatory.org The Music Conservatory of Westchester offers a variety of classes for infants, toddlers, and young children. Early childhood instruction includes our new First Notes class for babies and toddlers, Music Skills for pre-K through third grade, our

Suzuki Program for instrumental instruction (violin, cello, guitar), and our Piano Program for pre-K to first grade. Introduce your child to the joys of music in the conservatory’s supportive, nurturing environment, with outstanding instructors. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, assuring the highest quality programs for your child.

Musical Munchkins

167 Scarsdale Road, Tuckahoe 914-771-7000 musicalmunchkins.com Musical Munchkins, Westchester’s original early childhood music program is celebrating more than 30 years of “makin’ music and memories.” We continue delighting our youngest musicians and their families with the wonderful world of mommy-n-me music. Our curriculum, filled with awesome activities, is geared to children ages 6 months to 4 years. Instruments, creative movement, inventive props, puppets, books, and games help captivate and enrich children with a love of music. Our nurturing teachers capture everyone’s hearts, while stimulating those developing brains. Visit our website. Schedule a free trial class.

On Hudson Fitness & Dance Studio Inc. and New York Goju Karate Black Belt Academy

558 Warburton Ave., Hastings-on-Hudson 914-478-0508 onhudsondance.com; nygka.com Experience the best in dance, fitness, and karate! We offer dance classes in all styles and levels, including hip-hop and lyrical jazz. Fitness classes are comprehensive, and taught by the best instructors in Westchester. Our NY Goju Karate program, one of the region’s finest, offers age- and rank-specific classes, from preschool Tiny Tigers to Black Belt and beyond. Whether you are looking for a program for your children or yourself, On Hudson Fitness and Dance Studio and NY Goju Karate offer great programs for the entire family.

Pine Brook Fitness

130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-636-1019 pinebrookfitness.com

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

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

diverse traditions and backgrounds who want to share a joyous spiritual and cultural home. Our Hebrew School is a thriving community within a community, intimate and nurturing. The staff of caring, committed teachers creates an environment in which each child is appreciated and loved, and one that allows for an extraordinary level of relationship-building with both children and parents. There is also a PostB’nei Mitzvah Confirmation program for PCS teens in eighth to 10th grades that includes learning, service, and travel.

The Play Group Theatre

Pre-School Reading Program By The Dicker Reading Method

1 N. Broadway, White Plains 914-946-4433 playgroup.org At The Play Group Theatre®, we challenge the imagination, nurture the creative soul, and inspire children and teens to reach for what they might have thought impossible. We offer professional quality training in a one-of-a-kind family atmosphere in the spring, summer, and fall. With seven different programs, Summer Theatre is designed for young actors with every level of experience, ages 4-17. Our conservatory-style camp is located in its own air-conditioned performing arts complex, which includes two theaters, rehearsal studios, and scenic and costume shops. Register now!

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.

Pleasantville Community Synagogue (PCS)

219 Bedford Road, Pleasantville 914-769-2672 shalompcs.com info@shalompcs.com Pleasantville Community Synagogue is a welcoming Jewish community connecting people of

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

Prospect Academy of Westchester

82 Prospect St., White Plains 914-946-0628 prospectacademyow.com Prospect Academy of Westchester is a Montessori-based educational center for children ages 3-5 with a focus on language development. We offer programs in Russian, German, and English languages, lead by native or bilingual speakers. At PAOW, we develop an individual approach to each child and promote cultural fluency, increased adaptivity, and cognitive and academic excellence. We prepare for kindergarten and have a small student-to-teacher ratio. Kids at PAOW love our library, cooking, yoga, music, gym, and large playground and classrooms. Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, and we offer extended hours.

Purchase College Aquatics

Christine Klint, director 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 914-251-6546 purchasecollegeathletics. com/sports/2011/6/14/ GEN_0614112216.aspx christine.klint@purchase.edu

Held in our sparkling six-lane pool, the Purchase College aquatics program runs yearround and features children’s group lessons, parent and child classes, and specialty programs including adult lessons, lifeguarding, SCUBA certification, springboard diving, and private and semi-private lessons. All lessons are taught by certified American Red Cross instructors. Our summer session offers two-week intensives, morning or afternoon classes, as well as private lessons. Adult classes are offered on Tuesday evenings. Sessions run mid-June through mid-August. Register now!

Ridgefield Playhouse

80 E. Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CT 203-438-5795 The Ridgefield Playhouse is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) whose mission is to present a variety of performing arts to the community and the surrounding area. The Playhouse presents national and local acts and is the cultural hub for the town of Ridgefield. Along with hosting award-winning musicians, Broadway stars, and presenting our entertaining conversations series with renowned personalities, the playhouse is the place for families seeking live entertainment for their young children through our Ridgefield Academy Family Series.

Robin’s Nest

3 Phelps Lane, Sleepy Hollow 914-366-3232 phelpschildcare.org Robin’s Nest is located on the grounds of Phelps Memorial Hospital Center. Established in 1988, we offer full-time and part-time programs, year-round, for children ages 2 months to 5 years, from 7am-6pm, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two nutritional snacks. Age-specific curriculum, half-day nursery program, before- and after-school care, vacation club during school breaks, and summer camp. EnSaving money on a New richment activities include music, family day is gymnastics, easy! nature programs, yoga, language classes, field trips, SMART Board activities, and swimming lessons. Teachers have four-year degrees and CPR certifications. NAEYC accredited.

LOOKING FOR

Pick-Your-Own Apples is open! We’ll take you into the orchard from 9am-4:30pm daily. Our fall festival weekends will be in full swing during September and October. Jump into the cereal bowl, guess the weight of your perfect pumpkin, enjoy kettle corn, or good eats from one of our favorite vendors such as Mike at The Local Meatball! Our Animal Farm is open daily from 9am-5pm. It’s five acres of fun. From bunnies to buffalo, our barnyard friends are excited to meet you! Check on Facebook to see what’s happening. Hope to see you at the farm!

Starlight Starbright Music

78 Garth Road, Scarsdale 914-924-0995 slsbmusic.com jackie@slsbmusic.com Come join us this fall at Starlight Starbright Music, where we offer the Music Together® program for children ages newborn to 7—and the grownups who love them®! We offer Music Together MixedAge, Babies, and Big Kids 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, please visit slsbmusic. com or call 914-924-0995.

451 Sport Hill Road, Easton 203-261-3306 silvermansfarm.com

Orthokeratology uses specially designed retainer lenses to stop the progression of myopia in children while they sleep! Call our office for a free consultation* Dr. Arlene Z. Schwartz 221 E. Hartsdale Ave. • Hartsdale • 914.725.1600 www.HartsdaleFamilyEyeCare.com *Certain Restrictions Apply

Steffi Nossen School of Dance

216 Central Park Ave., White Plains 914-328-1900 steffinossen.org Since 1937, The Steffi Nossen School of Dance has been Westchester’s dance destination! Students from toddler to adult experience the joy and discipline of dance in White Plains and Chappaqua. Classes include modern, ballet, jazz, hip-hop, tap, Toddler/Caregiver, new Boys’ Movement, adult classes-open level, and kids and adult Moving Wheels & Heels adaptive dance. York City Performance opportunities. Live music in classes. Westchester Magazine “Best Kids Classes 2011 and 2013.” Free week of dance open house classes Sept. 26-30.

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Studio B Dance Center is thrilled to announce that its 21st dance season will take place in its brand-new state-of-the-art facility, located at 277 White Plains Road. The award-winning school will house three dance studios, (each having one-way viewing windows), and two waiting rooms. Exciting new class choices include musical theater, create a combo class, tumbling, and mommy and me. Non-competitive dance companies for ages 6 and older offer extra performing opportunities throughout the year. Convenient sibling schedules; open seven days a week.

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Friday, September 9 at 7:30pm

High Holiday Tickets Available on a limited basis

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Do you still need to find a summer camp? ResouRces ARticles

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

Temple Israel Center Nursery School

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280 Old Mamaroneck Road, White Plains 914-948-2800 x126 templeisraelcenter.org Temple Israel Center Nursery School is dedicated to providing a warm and nurturing environment in which children can achieve their full potential—socially, emotionally, creatively, cognitively, physically, and Jewishly. We offer classes for children ages 2-4; mommyand-me programs; after-school enrichment; Stay and Play Extended Hours until 4pm Mon-

day-Thursday, and until 2:30pm Friday; early drop-off; lunch programs; and summer camp. Our morning programs are enriched with music, creative movement, nature, and animal specialists. Come and check out our beautiful new classrooms! Please contact our director, Patty Goldstick, at 914-948-2800 x126, or email p.goldstick@ templeisraelcenter.org.

The Nurtury

Nurtury at North: 1144 North Ave., New Rochelle 914-740-5393 Nurtury at Flandreau: 130 Flandreau Drive, New Rochelle 914-632-6200 thenurtury-montessori.com info@thenurtury-montessori.com The Nurtury is committed to promoting quality, full-time Montessori child care for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years. The first six years of life is when intelligence and personality are formed. We greatly understand this concept, and as a result, the Nurtury has set the standard for full-time Montessori child care. Our vision for the Nurtury is of a “gentler, kinder” world. The Nurtury will be a sanctuary of peace, empathy, and gentleness, even in our increasingly fast-paced society. Please call today for a tour.

Torbank Community Nursery School

108 Pinesbridge Road, Ossining 914-941-1563 torbanknurseryschool.com Your child is a very important person. With your help we will provide a wide variety of learning opportunities and experiences, to encourage self-expression, independence, and group interaction. We will give your child the opportunity to explore, experiment, and reach out into his or her environment. We believe that the way your child will learn and grow will help them have the happiest possible year.

Virginia Marx Children’s Center at Westchester Community College

75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla 914-606-6644 sunywcc.edu/student-services/ childrenscenter vmcc@sunywcc.edu The Virginia Marx Children’s Center in Valhalla offers full-day

care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, in a bright, beautiful building on the campus of Westchester Community College. Focused on promoting well-rounded development and kindergarten readiness, the center is fully licensed, accredited, and has a five-star quality rating.

for all ages and abilities. WSA programs include public skating, learn-to-skate classes, group events, birthday parties, summer and holiday camps and clinics, and adult and youth hockey leagues and instruction. Visit us online for more information.

Westchester Community College Extension Center

23 Purdy Ave., Rye 914-967-2530 westfieldschools.info pheldman@westfieldschools.info Since 2000, The Westfield Day School is a therapeutic school for sixth to 12th grades, designed to help students overcome academic and emotional issues. The academic program at Westfield is unique in its ability to link emotional and learning support for its students.

Ossining Arcadian Shopping Center, Route 9, Ossining 914-606-7400 The Westchester Community College Extension Center in Ossining features credit and non-credit classes for adults in the areas of general education and health care. But this stateof-the-art facility also offers after-school science programs for youngsters in fifth-eighth grades. The affordable classes for middle school students begin in mid-October, and cover topics including Pullback Car Engineering and Vertical Access Wind Turbine. Contact us at the Arcadian Shopping Center location on Route 9, or call 914-606-7400 for details.

Westchester Family Orthodontics

450 Mamaroneck Ave., Suite 406, Harrison 914-732-3777 westchesterfamilyortho.com info@westchesterfamilyortho.com Westchester Family Orthodontics is a brand-new, completely digital and paperless office that uses the latest advances in orthodontic technology. Dr. Schnebel is among the select group of orthodontic specialists that has been board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Westchester Family Orthodontics offers orthodontic care, both braces and Invisalign, for the entire family, including children, teens, and adults. Our annual Halloween Buy Back event donates all candy to troops overseas as part of Operation Gratitude.

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

Westfield Day School

NEW

Boys’ & Preschool Classes • Modern, Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Hip-Hop • Performing Groups • Toddler - Adult • Moving Wheels & Heels Adaptive Dance for dancers with special needs Providing the best dance education in Westchester County since 1937.

www.steffinossen.org or call 914-328-1900

Wetherby–Pembridge School

wetherby-pembridge.org enquiries@alphaplusgroup.com Wetherby–Pembridge School opens in New York, September 2017, on the Upper East Side, next to Central Park on East 96th Street. It will bring to New York the rich traditions and academic excellence at the heart of its thriving UK schools. Wetherby-Pembridge School will offer a bespoke curriculum model combining the rigorous British National Curriculum with New York’s progressive student-centered teaching approach. Our vision is to awaken curiosity, cultivate high standards, celebrate successes, and encourage children to continually question and create in the world around them.

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YWCA of White Plains

515 North St., White Plains 914-949-6227 ywcawpcw.org The YWCA’s licensed and NAEYC-accredited children’s programs meet the needs of young families with an array of active programs, including child care, preschool programs, and our before- and after-school programs. Our caring staff creates an environment in which every child is valued and develops activities that support the educational process, social interaction, emotional growth, physical development, and creative expression. The YWCA also offers aquatics, gymnastics, and fitness activities for all ages.

Childcare & Nursery School In a Home like Atmosphere

State of the Art, Full-time/Part-time Childcare Center, ages 2 months - 6 years old alf day Nursery School H Vacation Club, during school breaks Summer Camp Program Yoga, Karate,Spanish, Nature,Music Programs Smart Board Activities

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Robin’s Nest 3 Phelps Lane, Sleepy Hollow 914-366-3232

NEW expansion now open Enroll now for infants, toddlers and preschoolers

www.phelpschildcare.org WestchesterParent 61

Let them Experience the Wonder...

PRIVATE SCHOOLS Alcott Montessori School

535 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry 914-693-4443 27 Crane Road, Scarsdale 914-472-4404 46 Fox Meadow Road, Scarsdale 914-595-7551 alcottschool.org Alcott School provides children ages 2-6 a supportive, multicultural learning environment in which they develop independence, self-confidence, and pride in their abilities. All sites offer a developmentally appropriate curriculum with Montessori materials, music, creative movement, and nature enrichment programs. After-school enrichment classes are provided for ages 3-5. Offerings include yoga, dance, mad science, super soccer stars, golf, karate, and Spanish. Kidz Club, a social skills group for ages 3-5 meets from 4-5pm twice a week at the Crane Road location. Call to arrange a tour.

The Nurtury on North The Nurtury at Flandreau www.thenurtury-montessori.com 1144 North Ave., New Rochelle, NY 130 Flandreau Ave., New Rochelle, NY email: info@thenurtury-montessori.com 914-740-5393 914-632-6200

Do you still need to find a summer camp? ResouRces ARticles

Blue Rock School

110 Demarest Mill Road, West Nyack 845-627-0234 bluerockschool.org Blue Rock School is the Lower Hudson Valley’s only progressive school, serving students in kindergarten-eighth grade. We offer a unique educational experience based on a hands-on and holistic approach that nurtures children’s innate love of learning, enabling them to follow their own natural curiosity and develop as independent thinkers. At Blue Rock, class sizes are small and students engage in a challenging and creative academic curriculum, which is

infused with the arts, nature, and play.

German International School New York (GIS)

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

Westfield Day School

Enroll NOW For the Fall! Enroll your child now for the 2016-17 school year! The Children’s Jewish Education Group offers Jewish cultural studies for grades K-7, with emphasis on tradition, history and holidays. A professional teaching staff is supported by a parent co-op. Bar/Bat Mitzvah lessons available. Interfaith families welcome. Classes held Sunday mornings at Purchase College.

Call now to plan a Visit

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914-864-1267 or visit our website www.cjeg.org

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• Family Owned & Operated • Infant & Toddler “Hands-On” Developmental Curriculum • Pre-K Curriculum designed to meet NY Standards for Kindergarten Readiness

NY State Licensed Hours: 7:00 AM - 6:30 PM www.allaboardchildcare.com All Aboard On-the-Hudson, LLC 255 North Highland Avenue Ossining, NY 10562 (914) 923-1700

All Aboard At Valhalla, Inc 400 Columbus Ave Valhalla, NY 10595 (914) 741-1500

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Courtesy Melissa Hilt

Healing Powers

››

What it’s like to provide your child with medical marijuana in New York. By Madeleine Burry

wice a day—once with breakfast, and once again at dinner— Melissa Hilt administers medicine to her 9-year-old daughter, Haley. Hilt uses a syringe to measure out a precise dosage, and gives it to Haley mixed in her food. It’s a normal, everyday scene for a child who needs medication, with one big difference: The medicine Haley is ingesting is a coconut oil compound that contains extract from the marijuana plant. A resident of East Schodack in Rensselaer County, Haley is among the first New York residents to take advantage of the state’s recent legalization of medical marijuana. Haley has severe intractable epilepsy. She can’t walk or talk, and is incontinent. Her first seizure was at 4 weeks old; since then, she seized at least once daily. But in the months since Haley’s prescription for medical marijuana was filled, she’s improved tremendously. “Within 24 hours of her first dose,” Hilt says, Haley “was more alert, bright in the best way.” She has just two or three seizures each week, compared to the seven to 10 she experienced prior to the drug. Before she began taking medical marijuana, “we were never really sure what Haley knew, and what she didn’t.” Now, she’s able to communicate using an eye gaze computer. Hilt describes Haley as making “huge, huge gains” due to the medication. Haley can now stand on her feet and even ride a tricycle at school. In fact, “she loves to stand with support and dance,” her mom says. With the help of a walker-like device, Haley can walk down the hallways at school. Haley is able to legally take medical marijuana thanks to New York’s legalized medical cannabis program, which took effect at the beginning of this year. New York joins the District of Columbia and 24 other states—including Connecticut and New Jersey— which have passed laws allowing use of marijuana in some form for medical purposes. The new laws, in addition to those in a handful of states that have legalized or reduced punishment for recreational marijuana use, come as public opinion has shifted dramatically. A 2015 survey from the Pew Research Center found that 53 percent of people believe marijuana should be legalized. That may seem like a slim majority—and it is—but just a decade ago, in 2006, a similar survey from Pew found that only 32 percent believed marijuana should be legalized.

Risks, Side Effects—And Benefits

Still, if you came of age in the unequivocal “Say no to drugs” era, when marijuana was labeled a gateway drug, the idea of children being prescribed medical marijuana may cause trepidation. Hilt, however, has no regrets or reservations about the treatment method for Haley. Side effects are familiar to Haley: Steroid injections caused a heart murmur; a special high-fat diet aimed at reducing seizures caused Haley to go into liver failure; benzodiazepine, a tranquilizer used to reduce seizures, “zombified” Haley. Once, a medication caused her to sleep for 72 hours straight. In contrast, the coconut oil compound that’s used as a delivery agent for the cannabis treatment 64

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

Haley Hilt, a 9-year-old whose quality of life has improved dramatically since she started taking medical marijuana after it was legalized in New York

can sometimes cause Haley to get constipated. “When you’re looking at the side effects of the other medications that are out there, it’s nothing in comparison. Honestly, part of me wishes I could have tried it before we put her little body through all of these horrible things, to see if it would have worked then,” Hilt says. The American Academy of Pediatrics sounds a more cautionary note. In a policy statement issued in March 2015, the AAP points out that there is ample documentation on “the adverse effects of marijuana” on adolescents as well as a lack of “published studies on the use of medicinal marijuana or pharmaceutical cannabinoids in pediatric populations.” As well as all the well-known side effects— including reduced attention span, short term memory, coordination, and judgment—the AAP also points out that “new research has also demonstrated that the adolescent brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex areas controlling judgment and decision-making, is not fully developed until the mid-20s, raising questions about how any substance use may affect the developing brain.” Still, while opposing medical marijuana outside of the oversight and regulation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “the AAP recognizes that marijuana may currently be an option for cannabinoid administration for children with life-limiting or severely debilitating conditions and for whom current therapies are inadequate.” Against this backdrop of increased accessibility of medical marijuana, at least in some states, the federal government continues to classify marijuana as a Schedule I drug, alongside LSD, heroin, and ecstasy. The Drug Enforcement Agency defines these drugs as having “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” These Schedule I drugs are considered “the most dangerous.” It’s an undeniably complex landscape, and this, perhaps, is why New York’s medical marijuana program has been implemented with tight regulations. Stephen Dahmer, M.D., the Chief Medical Officer at Vireo

Health of NY, one of five organizations approved to dispense medical marijuana in the state, agrees that there are undeniable risks involved with medical marijuana. “Any physician that reads the literature about children or anyone under 21 and THC [a part of the marijuana plant] knows that caution has just been amplified a thousandfold,” he says. But for children such as Haley—people with intractable disease and extreme pain and discomfort—these risks may be worth it. “When these children arrive at our dispensary, this is one of their last hopes,” Dr. Dahmer says.

New York’s Cautious, Medical-Led Program

How do children—or any patients—get to Vireo or the other dispensaries in New York? The journey isn’t easy. The first New York dispensaries opened in January 2016. You may be imagining storefronts festooned with decorative marijuana leaves, mason jars stuffed full of pot, boxes of pre-rolled joints, or plastic-wrapped cannabis-laced cookies, brownies, and other edibles. Erase that image: New York’s implementation of legalized medical cannabis differs sharply from states with more lenient, and lower regulated, programs (ahem, California). In New York state, no wink-wink, nudge-nudge diagnosis will get you access to medical marijuana. The program is tightly regulated and cautious. Dr. Dahmer describes New York’s program hewing “very closely to a medical model.” Vireo’s work with doctors, and the state’s program, mimics the general practices that govern doctors’ habits and style, Dr. Dahmer says. “Anything we do—in our practice, and oftentimes in our lives—is done with a lot of caution. We want to always take the safest route…and make sure that our patients are protected and that some unforeseen circumstance doesn’t catch us by surprise.”

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Haley’s Path to Medical Marijuana

Janetta Betz, Director

In her two daily doses, Haley takes what is known as a “high CBD, low THC” strain of marijuana. CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is non-psychoactive, and cultivated for its pain-relieving, antiinflammatory qualities, while THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the mind-altering part of the marijuana plant. Put another way, THC is the part of the marijuana plant that makes you feel stoned while CBD is the medicinal part of the plant. Several years ago, Hilt became interested in the possibility of medical marijuana as a treatment option for Haley: Her family doctor had watched a special about Colorado’s Stanley brothers, famous for creating a high CBD, low THC strain called Charlotte’s Web, that reduced its namesake’s seizures. This prompted Hilt to begin researching how high CBD strains could help people with epilepsy. A registered nurse, Hilt read the research carefully, and then began lobbying at the capital. For more than six months, “we were lobbying and trying to get senators to listen to us and support our cause,” Hilt remembers. Hilt and her daughter were there the day the program passed, and when the program went live on a Friday, Haley was certified the following Wednesday. Because Haley was on a form of benzodiazepine that’s affected by CBD, Haley had to decrease her dosage of benzodiazepine before she could begin taking medical marijuana. She began taking the high CBD, low THC strain in February. The transformation has been huge: “She is soaring,” says Hilt. “Haley is doing phenomenally.”

Registering for Classes in Dance, Acting & Singing (toddlers to adults)

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145 Palisade St. Suite 376 Dobbs Ferry, NY 914-231-9179 janettabetz@optimum.net danceandtheaterarts.com

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Free Trial Classes! Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Jazz, Tap! Ages 2-Teens! Adult Classes & Boys too! ABT Certified Instructors! Licensed Dancewear Retailer!

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Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions special notices. Melissa Hilt holdsand Haley receive in the New York State Senate chambers on the day that legislators voted to legalize medical cannabis.

ones that have legalized the plant. Federally, it remains illegal, www.facebook.com/nymetroparents even if the government’s guidance is essentially to prosecute major offenses (drugged driving or possession on federal property, for instance) and to allow states to enforce their own regulation. That makes for an uneasy balancing act, with results that can be frustrating. For one, medical marijuana, still illegal federally, is not covered by insurance. Hilt pays for Haley’s prescription—which costs nearly $400 a month—with the help of fundraising done by her church and community. Beyond the expense, Hilt chafes at the federal government’s slow move to reclassification, which would allow drug trials, and feels frustrated that truly sick people cannot get access to a potentially helpful drug. “It’s almost like we’re being held hostage to the pharmaceutical companies when there’s this plant out there that can really and truly help so many people.” And while the AAP opposes legalization, concerned that it will increase children and teen’s access to the drug, the organization also advocates for studying the impact of new laws, and calls for marijuana to be reclassified as a Schedule II drug (a classification that includes Adderall, OxyContin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, among others). This classification would allow “research and development of pharmaceutical cannabinoids and supports a review of policies promoting research on the medical use of these compounds.” Dr. Dahmer says he is also “interested in helping to support or promote research,” especially given the tremendous impact he sees daily on children and their families. For parents whose children face one of the 10 eligible conditions, Hilt’s advice is twofold. First, educate yourself. “That’s the number one recommendation I have for other parents,” Hilt says. Dig into the slim research currently available, review anecdotal evidence, and reach out to dispensaries for their

insights. And then, “Fight for your kid.” Medical marijuana is “not something our government should say we can or can’t have. This is something our physicians should determine, not the government. Call your legislators, call your senator, and tell them, I want this available for myself, for my children, for whomever.”

A SNAPSHOT OF NEW YORK’S MEDICAL MARIJUANA LAW

FALL PROGRAM

Family Owned & Operated Since 1973 Experienced Teachers

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

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

Only some conditions are eligible for a prescription: Only 10 conditions (as well as several associated conditions) make patients eligible for a medical marijuana prescription. They are: • Cancer • HIV infection or AIDS • Multiple sclerosis • Spinal cord injury with spasticity • Epilepsy • Inflammatory bowel disease • Neuropathy • Huntington’s disease • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) • Parkinson’s disease A stringent registration process: Even patients who suffer from those conditions do not have an easy path to a prescription. Only registered doctors—who meet certain set criteria, and have taken a four-hour class—can register with New York’s Medical Marijuana Program and prescribe marijuana. Fewer than 600 doctors had done so by mid-July, according to the state. Patients have to either find one of these doctors (there is a registry, but doctors are not required to add their names to it and some prefer to keep their participation quiet) or ask their doctor to join the program. Only then can patients get a prescription. Currently, there are more than 5,000 patients certified. Licensed pharmacists: Only licensed pharmacists can fill prescriptions; currently, there are five medical marijuana dispensaries in the state, each with four or five locations. Extract only: New York limits the forms medical cannabis can take. There is no form of regulated, medical marijuana available for sale in the state that can be smoked or eaten (no medical cannabis brownies). Instead, it is sold in forms such as pills, vaporizers ingested via inhaler, and oils.

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151 Crotona Ave. • Harrison, NY • USA Certified Instructors

Madeleine Burry is a Brooklyn-based freelance writer and editor, covering everything from parenting to open data to workplace productivity. She’s held staff positions at Parents.com, Scholastic, and About.com. You can follow her on Twitter @lovelanewest.

WestchesterParent 67

Meet the Health Care

PROFESSIONAL

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

Caring for Kids Dr. Ivis Getz 140 Lockwood Ave., Suite 315, New Rochelle 914-355-2265 caringpediatricdentistry.com caringpediatricdentistry@gmail.com Dr. Ivis Getz, a board-certified pediatric dentist, is committed to providing the highest quality dental care to infants, children, adolescents, and those with special needs. Dr. Getz recognizes that each child is a unique individual who deserves compassion and respect, which is evident in her friendly manner and calm demeanor. The dental team truly enjoys working with kids and will treat your child with warmth and compassion. The practice participates in many dental insurance plans and has convenient after-school and Saturday appointments available.

Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Renuka Bijoor 325 S. Highland Ave., Briarcliff Manor 914-762-4151 briarcliffpediatricdentistry.com No more shots, drilling, bleeding, or stitches! Dr. Renuka Bijoor is a board-certified pediatric dentist who is a pioneer in pediatric laser dentistry, which is the gentlest way to fix cavities or release tongue- and lip-ties. A graduate of Columbia College of Dental Medicine, she currently teaches there on a part-time basis. She is also affiliated with Phelps Memorial Hospital in Sleepy Hollow, where she provides hospital dentistry to young children and children with special needs. Her practice, Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry, offers unparalleled care for all patients ages newborn to 22.

OPEN HOUSES 2016 German International School New York (GIS)

50 Partridge Road, White Plains 914-948-6513 gisny.org admissions@gisny.org Join us for a campus open house, Friday, Oct. 21 at 10am, or Friday, Jan. 20, 2017 at 10am.

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.

Steffi Nossen School of Dance

216 Central Park Ave., White Plains 914-328-1900 steffinossen.org A free week of dance open house classes will be offered Sept. 26-30.

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE PARTY PLANNER To advertise: 914-397-0200 or nympads@davlermedia.com

HAIR CUTS

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CARNIVALS INFLATABLES

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FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Please Call Us at (917) 244-5161 www.homeostasispsychology.com Need to plan the perfect party? FIND venues, entertainers, suppliers, and other ideas to create the ideal party in our online Parent Resources Directory.

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NYMETROPARENTS.COM/REGISTER WestchesterParent 69

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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS

CHILD CARE / DAY CARE

JCC of Harrison Early Childhood Center.........47

MUSIC

Gym Cats Gymnastics.....................................45

All Aboard (Croton/Ossining)...........................63

Kumon, Westchester Branch Office..................7

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

International School of Gymnastics.................67

Ann & Andy......................................................67

Leapin Lizards.................................................63

Belle School of Music......................................37

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

JCC of Mid-Westchester..................................31

Mathnasium of Scarsdale................................ 11

Hoff-Barthelson Music School.........................12

Musical Munchkins..........................................45

Milestone School (The)....................................55

Music Conservatory of Westchester................65

Nurtury (The)...................................................62

Musical Munchkins..........................................45

Pleasantville Community Synagogue..............60

Starlight Starbright Music................................37

Nurtury (The)...................................................62

AUTO Acura of Westchester......................................27 BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES A-Game Sports................................................33 American Gymnastics......................................59 Artistree Performing Arts.................................47 Bach to Rock - Westchester............................43 Blue Moon Mexican Café ...............................63 Chelsea Piers - CT..........................................34 Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor......................61 East Pointe Dance...........................................66 Great Play - Scarsdale....................................22 Gym Cats Gymnastics.....................................45 Gymboree - Scarsdale..................................... 11 International School of Gymnastics.................67 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester................................47 Little Gym - Westchester.................................15 Starlight Starbright Music................................37 Pinebrook Fitness............................................39 PlayLand Ice Casino........................................17 Sportime USA Inc............................................41 Westchester Parent Party Planner..................69

Prospect Academy of Westchester..................66 Robin’s Nest of Phelps Hospital......................61 WCC Child Care Center..................................29

Sylvan Learning Centers.................................22

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING

Temple Israel Center Nursery School..............57

Curtain Call Inc................................................46

A-Game Sports................................................33

Westchester Community College Extention Program............................................. 2

Dance & Theater Arts Studios.........................65

Alcott Montessory............................................54

Westfield Day School......................................49

School of Rock..................................................3

CLASSES

American Gymnastics......................................59 Artistree Performing Arts.................................47 Bach to Rock - Westchester............................43 Blue Rock School............................................48

Chelsea Piers - CT..........................................34

Central Park Dance.........................................40

Clay Art Center................................................63

Dance & Theater Arts Studios.........................65

Cross County Shopping Center.......................72

Gym Cats Gymnastics.....................................45 Gymboree - Scarsdale..................................... 11 Hoff-Barthelson Music School.........................12 JCC of Harrison Early Childhood Center.........47 Leapin Lizards.................................................63 Logrea Dance Academy..................................55 Musical Munchkins..........................................45 Starlight Starbright Music................................37 PlayLand Ice Casino........................................17

Yes She Can Inc. / Girl AGain ........................67

Purchase College / SUNY Aquatic Program....49 Steffi Nossen School of Dance........................61

CAMPS

Studio B Dance.................................................. 9

Ann & Andy......................................................67

Temple Israel Center Nursery School..............57

Jodi’s Gym - Westchester................................47 Little Gym - Westchester.................................15 Studio B Dance.................................................. 9 A-Game Sports................................................33 Alcott Montessory............................................54 Artistree Performing Arts.................................47 Bach to Rock - Westchester............................43 Chelsea Piers - CT..........................................34 Clay Art Center................................................63 Curtain Call Inc................................................46 East Pointe Dance...........................................66 Great Play - Scarsdale....................................22 International School of Gymnastics.................67 JCC of Mid-Westchester..................................31 Leapin Lizards.................................................63 LiceXchange....................................................47 Milestone School (The)....................................55 Music Conservatory of Westchester................65 New 42nd Street..............................................53 Pinebrook Fitness............................................39 Play Group Theatre.........................................49 Purchase College / SUNY Aquatic Program....49 Sylvan Learning Centers.................................22

PLAY SPACES

Belle School of Music......................................37

Easter Seals Project Explore...........................46

Westchester Skate Academy...........................17 DANCE Central Park Dance.........................................40 City Center Dance...........................................45

Play Group Theatre.........................................49

Wetherby-Pembridge School...........................21 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS

Westchester Skate Academy...........................17

Hudson Country Montessori............................23

Prospect Academy of Westchester..................66

Curtain Call Inc................................................46 Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor......................61 New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce...49 Ridgefield Playhouse (The).............................25 School of Rock..................................................3 Silverman’s Farm.............................................34 Sportime USA Inc............................................41

Great Play - Scarsdale....................................22 Gymboree - Scarsdale..................................... 11 RELIGIOUS Alef Bet School / Chabad................................48 Children’s Jewish Education Group.................62 Congregation Kol Ami Early Childhood...........66 Pleasantville Community Synagogue..............60 RESTAURANT / FOOD SERVICES Blue Moon Mexican Café ...............................63 Topps Bakery...................................................63

FAMILY TRAVEL

RETAIL

Acura of Westchester......................................27

Affordables......................................................67 Cross County Shopping Center.......................72

FITNESS A-Game Sports................................................33

John Christopher Salon...................................40 Pedigree Ski Shop...........................................16

Fitness Expo....................................................43

Tilly...A Deer’s Tale...........................................68

International School of Gymnastics.................67

Yes She Can Inc. / Girl AGain ........................67

Jodi’s Gym - Westchester................................47 Pinebrook Fitness............................................39

SPECIAL EVENTS Cross County Shopping Center.......................72

HEALTH

Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor......................61

Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry.......................51, 68

Fitness Expo....................................................43

Caring for Kids Pediatric Dentistry...................68

New 42nd Street..............................................53

Comprehensive Dental Group.........................41

New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce...49

Studio B Dance.................................................. 9

Fidelis Care New York.....................................27

Ridgefield Playhouse (The).............................25

DEVELOPMENTAL

LiceXchange....................................................47

SPECIAL NEEDS

Main Street Pediatric Dentistry........................31

Bakshi Law......................................................63

CareMount Medical ........................................45

Westfield Day School......................................49

Dance & Theater Arts Studios.........................65 East Pointe Dance...........................................66 Logrea Dance Academy..................................55 Steffi Nossen School of Dance........................61

Dicker Reading Method.....................................5 Easter Seals Project Explore...........................46

John Christopher Salon...................................40

Wetherby-Pembridge School...........................21

MVP Health Care.............................................39 Schwartz, Arlene Dr. .......................................59

SPORTS

EDUCATION

Westchester Community College Extention Program............................................. 2

A-Game Sports................................................33

Alef Bet School / Chabad................................48 All Aboard (Croton/Ossining)...........................63 Bakshi Law......................................................63 Blue Rock School............................................48 Children’s Jewish Education Group.................62 Congregation Kol Ami Early Childhood...........66 Dicker Reading Method.....................................5

Purchase College/SUNY Aquatic Program......49

Westchester Family Orthodontics ...................57 Affinity Health Plan..........................................13

THEATER Artistree Performing Arts.................................47

HOME SERVICES

New 42nd Street..............................................53

Clark’s Moving and Storage............................60 LiceXchange....................................................47

TUTORS Kumon, Westchester Branch Office..................7

Easter Seals Project Explore...........................46

Temple Israel Center Nursery School..............57

German School of New York...........................33

LAW SERVICES

Mathnasium of Scarsdale................................ 11

YWCA - White Plains.......................................30

Hudson Country Montessori............................23

Bakshi Law......................................................63

Sylvan Learning Centers.................................22

September 2016 | nymetroparents.com

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