Family Times September 2014

FREE

The Parenting Guide of Central New York www.familytimes.biz | September 2014

Why homework matters

From kindergarten to 12th grade

Reliving the terrible teens A mother who’s not so special The coping toolbox

Back

to School Issue

FT-Sept_Cover.indd 1

+ Hip-hop bus drivers 8/21/14 9:28 AM

2 GCH_BirthdayAd_FamilyTimes_Full_Layout 1 8/8/14 4:49 PM Page 1

Something to Celebrate

UPSTATE GOLISANO CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL IS TURNING FIVE. Since we opened our doors in 2009, more than 20,000 children have been patients, 26,000 have had surgery here, and our staff members have overseen 322,000 visits by children who received care at one of our pediatric outpatient clinics.

Another important number: the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital is the only children’s hospital for families in 17 counties in Central New York.

To join the celebration visit us on Facebook or www.upstate.edu/five 2

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 2

8/20/14 4:26 PM

3 - CONTENTS

family times • September 2014

4 • Editor’s Note 6 • Family Faces

Samar Moseley and Tyrone Jackson, hip-hop school bus drivers, spread a message of safety.

6

8 • Family Matters

The best learning is the kind your child pursues because she wants to.

10 • Atypical Family

No special praise is needed. This mom is just doing her job.

12 • Healthy Living

Kids under stress need a full toolbox of coping strategies.

10

14 • Live & Learn

Acquiring life skills helps children become successful wherever they are.

16 • Kids These Days

Knowing what it’s like to be a teen doesn’t necessarily help you guide them.

16

Capture a moment!

Sam, age 2, plays on the slide in the backyard of the Manlius home he shares with his parents Patty and Chris Owens.

We welcome reader submissions, whether photos of your kids or their artwork. Send high-resolution photos or color artwork to editorial@familytimes.biz or, via snail mail, to Family Times, 1415 W. Genesee St., Syracuse NY 13204. Please include the child’s first name, age, hometown, and information about what’s going on in the photo or art, as well as the parent or guardian’s full name and daytime phone number, for verification. Hard copies of photos or artwork become the property of Family Times and cannot be returned.

18 • It’s Not Busy Work Teachers explain homework’s importance at every stage of school.

22 • Family Fun Calendar of Events Advertiser Index Practice..............................13 Learn.................................15 Party...................................27 Backpack Directory................ 34 Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 3

3

8/21/14 9:55 AM

4 - Editor’s Note

family times The Parenting

Guide of Central New York

September 2014

issue No. 149

PUBLISHER/OWNER Bill Brod Editor in chief Reid Sullivan editorial@familytimes.biz

Beginnings

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Michelle Bowers (Ext. 114) MBowers@syracusenewtimes.com

S

eptember represents a fresh start for many people, not just students. Yes, it’s when kids start the academic year with new backpacks, classes, teachers and responsibilities. For the rest of us, it’s a return to a more energetic and purposeful rhythm at work and in life. Why? Perhaps it’s the impending change in seasons, and the prospect of winter on the distant horizon. Maybe it’s just the infectious busyness of the school year.

Articles in this issue are intended to help parents get their kids on track for academic success, but there are plenty of tips for everyone. When I read Laura Livingston Snyder’s strategies for coping with stress on page 12, I was reminded that not only do my kids need hobbies, exercise and healthy foods—I do, too. Many aspects of parenting are like that: I can often apply advice directed at my children to myself as well.

Some back-to-school experiences are (fortunately) less universal. However, if you have a child in kindergarten through 12th grade, he will probably be getting homework. Tammy DiDomenico asked veteran teachers to talk about the purpose of homework—even for kindergartners, even for seniors in high school. The answers start on page 18. They might surprise you.

We hope you will find useful information and uncommon insights in these pages.

MANAGING EDITOR Bill DeLapp Photographer Michael Davis OFFICE COORDINATOR/CIRCULATION MANAGER Lacey Martino (Ext. 110) DESIGNERS Meaghan Arbital Natalie Davis Caitlin O’Donnell DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Ty Marshal (ext. 144) Contributors Deborah Cavanagh,Tammy DiDomenico, Aaron Gifford, Eileen Gilligan, Emma Kress, Linda Lowen, Cary Rector, Tonja Rector, Maggie Lamond Simone, Laura Livingston Snyder, Chris Xaver ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Advertising Sales Manager Jessica Luisi (ext. 139) JLuisi@syracusenewtimes.com Lesli Mitchell (ext. 140) LMitchell@syracusenewtimes.com

Enjoy your September!

Lija Spoor (ext. 111) LijaSpoor@syracusenewtimes.com

Reid Sullivan Editor in Chief

On the cover: Carolina, age 8, gets ready to do some homework.

Inside photo: Carolina and her mother, Jessica Cuello, live in DeWitt, with Carolina’s father, Ed, and brother, Gabriel, age 11. Jessica Cuello, a high school teacher, talks about homework in the story starting on page 18.

Photos by Michael Davis Design by Caitlin O’Donnell

Joseph Taranto (ext. 115) JTaranto@syracusenewtimes.com COMPTROLLER Deana Vigliotti (ext. 118) CLASSIFIED SALES Lija Spoor (ext. 111)

Subscribe to Family Times by mail and receive 12 issues for only $20.

Call (315) 472-4669 to order.

Family Times 1415 W. Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13204 (315) 472-4669 fax (315) 422-1721 www.familytimes.biz

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2014 Bronze 2014 Silver Award Winner Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

Design Awards Competition

Advertising deadline for October is Sept. 11. Calendar deadline for October is Sept. 5.

4

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 4

8/21/14 10:05 AM

5

Austin Dunyk Financial Professional Associate The Prudential Insurance Company of America 5786 Widewaters Pkwy Dewitt, NY 13214 Office 315-350-5093 Austin.Dunyk@Prudential.com Â

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 5

5

8/21/14 10:05 AM

6 - Family Faces

family Faces

Michael Davis photo

Samar Moseley (left) and Tyrone Jackson at the bus yard on Spencer Street in Syracuse.

Bus Drivers Make Safety Their Rap Samar Moseley and Tyrone Jackson are 1306 | By Tammy DiDomenico

H

ip-hop music doesn’t typically call to mind the description “kid friendly.” But Syracuse musicians Samar Moseley and Tyrone Jackson have found inspiration in their day gig as bus drivers for the Syracuse City School District. While other rappers may boast about street violence or ill-gotten riches, this duo—known as 1306—applies catchy beats to cautionary raps on bus safety and working toward graduation.

Last year, 1306 released a three-song EP, Mr. Bus Driver, with positive raps on school-related issues. They also performed at city schools. In an interview with Family Times, Moseley, 35, said that while he and Jackson, 37, continue to work on all kinds of musical collaborations, he thinks 1306 can find a sizable market for its positive messages. Moseley is the primary lyricist while Jackson handles the beats and engineering. The pair, who started driving buses in 2011, is enthusiastic about what the future holds. The following is a portion of that conversation.

You met during your bus driver training. How did that lead to a musical partnership?

6

Tyrone Jackson: I was talking with someone else about music. Samar overheard the conversation and that’s how it got started. I invited him over to my home studio. We recorded a couple tracks. We just started from there.

Samar Moseley: The first songs we did were, like, club songs. But this “Mr. Bus Driver” song just came out of nowhere.

Jackson: We were mad one day (laughs).

I had a bad day on the bus; he had a bad day on the bus. We started talking about what happened and came up with this.

Moseley: We had to keep it simple. “Classics for the classroom,” that’s what we like to call it. Our CDs have now become popular in other states. I’m from Minneapolis originally, and they play this in day care centers. After more than a year, they tell me it is still the only thing the kids want to listen to.

Explain the name, 1306.

Jackson: When we started driving, I was Bus Route 06, he was Route 13. So we just said, “Route 1306.” The concept behind that is, going down a new journey, taking a new route to success.

It says on your website that when you first started driving, you were surprised by how differently children behave now compared to when you were kids. What specifically?

Jackson: Kids are going to be kids.

You can only guide them the right way; it’s up to them to make choices. People see a bus and they just think, “Oh, that’s an easy job.” It’s really not. Every kid’s life on that bus is in your hands, and you are the captain of that ship. The best way to teach something is to make it constructive and fun. You can learn the rules and have fun singing songs, dancing. It’s a good feeling.

If you establish a relationship with a kid, they’ll sit and talk to you. They’ll tell you how their day is going. They will tell you if they are being bullied, or what is going on in their household. You become somebody they look up to.

Moseley: On my bus, a window got shot out with a BB gun. That’s what really changed my whole thinking process with the kids. After that, we had to do something. You see bullying on the bus; you

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 6

8/21/14 10:06 AM

7

have to separate kids. There’s a lot of that going on. There are a lot of little things that they do.

Jackson: You have to let them know that these are the rules you are going to follow. I tell them, “This is how it’s going to go.”

You have to let them know you are serious from the beginning.

Moseley: My bus right now has no problems: no standing up, no throwing stuff out the windows. They don’t disrespect my monitor, nothing else. That’s great.

Michael Davis photo

How did you approach the school district with your music?

Jackson: When we finished with Mr. Bus Driver, I took it to my safety supervisor. He didn’t even finish listening to it before he started making phone calls. Next thing you know, we are having meetings with the school district, talking about where this can take us. Then it got to Albany and was approved to be sold to the kids. It takes a lot to be able to present anything to kids in schools, but they approved us for all of that. We could play the songs on our buses; we can perform in a school. It was like we got the key to the city with the school.

What influences you as songwriters?

Moseley: I used to be a beat boy, a break dancer. When I was 5 or 6 I was in a documentary, me and my brothers. It’s called Breakfast on Broadway. We had a big break dance crew back in Minneapolis. So, I’ve always been out performing. In junior high, I started realizing that I could write. For a long time, I didn’t let nobody hear my raps, just my closest friends. When I got older, I started going to open mic nights. Once I got that attention from the crowd, it was like “I could really do this.”

My life was kind of crazy. I’ve got two older brothers in two rival gangs. I told my mom that I was going to do something to get us out. That was my mindset, even when I was 8 years old. Music is what helped me stay positive.

NOW ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT

SPORTS SKILLS at the JCC of Syracuse

BASKETBALL ROOKIE SPORTS KARATE

Everyone Welcome!

You do not need to be a member to join Sports Skills.

Members receive a discount!

Boys and Girls Ages 3-12 The JCC’s popular sports program for kids teach skills, conditioning, team work, fairplay, and sportsmanship.

Become a Full Fitness member and excercise exercise while your child is in class!

Classes begin in September

The JCC of Syracuse • 5655 Thompson Road in DeWitt 315-445-2360 • www.jccsyr.org

Jackson: Music is about life experiences, whether it’s your experiences or somebody else’s. You’ve got to have relatable music, you know?

Moseley: And it’s got to be creative.

You guys are not dads yourselves, but, Tyrone, you’re raising nieces and nephews at home (three boys, three girls). How old are they?

Jackson: My youngest is 6; then I have twins — they’re 10.

Then I’ve got a 12, a 14 and an 18. I treat them much like the kids on my bus. I don’t sugarcoat nothing. We have rules, and they’re going to be followed. I put my foot down just like I do on the bus. I tell them, “Priorities equal privileges. If you do what you are supposed to do, then you get to have fun. But you’ve got to earn it.” It was hard in the beginning, but they’ve been with me for a year and a half now. They got it. We’re smooth sailing.

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, we invite you to visit HOA. You’ll soon see that our staff, experience, technology, clinical trials, and our holistic approach to healing make HOA an amazing place for cancer treatment–right here in Central New York.

hoacny.com

Has this project influenced the way you think about the community?

Moseley: Yes. If this actually becomes something big, I’d like to start a non-profit called KEYS: Keep Every Youth Safe. Because kids are like keys: They’re real easy to lose, but you can always find them again if you look in the right places. Tyrone’s got a project, too: All Grown Up. We just want to bring something to Syracuse that can be positive for kids.

Do teachers suggest ideas for songs?

Jackson: (over Moseley’s laughter) They try. They try. The last request I had was to do a motivational song to help get people ready to take tests. That’s what (our song) “I’m Graduating” is about. You can’t get more uplifting than that!

Award-winning writer Tammy DiDomenico lives in DeWitt with her husband and two sons.

Quality Cancer Care: Recognizing Excellence

The only CNY Cancer Practice that is certified for quality by the American Society of Clinical Oncology Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 7

7

8/21/14 10:06 AM

Fuse | Getty Images

8 - Family Matters

Wanting to Learn

Encourage children to pursue their passions | By Cary and Tonja Rector

A

number of years ago we had the opportunity to visit an alternative school that individualized curriculum to meet specific interests of students and foster intrinsic motivation.

We talked with an 11-year-old who for the past four months had been working on his chosen project of “How Birds Fly.” His teachers helped him explore and learn math, physics, biology, aerodynamics, history and the proper format for writing a research paper. Everything was constructed around his interest.

He showed us the skeletal models of birds he built, flew ornithopters, demonstrated a small wind tunnel he constructed to observe how different airfoils worked, had created numerous drawings and was reading about Leonardo da Vinci and the Wright brothers.

This student was not going to receive a grade for any of his work. He focused on acquiring knowledge about a topic that held tremendous interest for him. This did not mean he had no structure and accountability. His project required him to set weekly goals of what he wanted to accomplish. He met weekly with his teachers, who helped 8

him meet the goals. He had a five-month deadline to complete a comprehensive written report on what he had learned.

Most scientists agree children are born with an innate need to interact with the environment. These interactions lead to learning and acquiring knowledge. The motivation for this learning is within the child and requires no outside rewards.

This type of motivation is intrinsic motivation. In contrast, extrinsic motivation is activity engaged in for a desirable outcome such as praise or a reward.

Research clearly shows intrinsic motivation is associated with greater learning and achievement. Intrinsically motivated children are more involved in their learning and persist longer in goal-directed activity.

Intrinsic motivation leads to a deeper understanding of what they have learned and a greater ability to apply that knowledge to future activity.

Extrinsic motivation (working for rewards) can undermine learning. Children will work to get the reward. The focus becomes the reward and not the learning.

Learning is not seen as something useful in its own right, and the incentives undermine intrinsic motivation.

Extrinsic motivation works best for routine tasks, those that don’t require creativity. If a task requires you follow a prescribed set of rules to a specific end, rewards can prove motivating. Some special needs children may need this type of motivation to achieve routine behaviors, but this should not exclude the child also working on tasks that are intrinsically motivated.

The assumption people are primarily motivated by reward and punishment is not supported by the research. Children under the right circumstances will learn because they want to learn and do good work for its own sake. This shift requires rethinking motivation not as something that is done to people but something people do.

More schools are starting to incorporate some principles from our example at the start of this article. Parents, however, can create a home environment that fosters intrinsic motivation.

Encourage your child’s interests and hobbies. Use your child’s interest as a vehicle for all types of learning.

A sense of autonomy is important.

Offer free exploration and choices over

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 8

8/21/14 9:25 AM

9

what to do and how to do it (within parameters). Autonomy is different from independence. One can be autonomous and still be interdependent with others.

Fuse | Getty Images

Reasonable struggles are good. Experiencing a sense of mastery comes from putting forth effort to get through a challenge.

Repeatedly experiencing mastery develops confidence to take on new tasks and challenges. Children are more comfortable exploring and meeting challenges when they have close, caring relationships.

Praise your child’s efforts and don’t focus on results. Asking a child how she feels about her attempts and progress places the emphasis on completing a task because it is important to her, not as a way of winning your approval (reward). Asking, “How do you think you are doing?” promotes the skill of self-evaluation.

Be cautious about using rewards and use them sparingly. Focus rewards on effort and persistence and avoid rewards based only on results.

Some additional resources: Big Picture Learning: www.bigpicture.org The Tinkering School: www.tinkeringschool.com The Unschoolers: www.unschooler.com

Are you experiencing defiant and aggressive behaviors in your child or teen?

Is your child or teen showing symptoms of depression or anxiety?

Are there communication problems in your marriage?

Has there been a recent divorce that is affecting you and/or your child?

Is your child having difficulties in school?

With decades of experience helping couples and families, we provide a safe environment and the guidance you need to overcome your problems.

Sudbury Valley School: www.sudval.com Cary and Tonja Rector are married and live with their son in Manlius.

Cary is a licensed mental health counselor and Tonja is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Consult your own health care provider before making decisions affecting your family’s well-being. To comment on this article, write to editorial@familytimes.biz.

Alkira

The Center for Couple & Family Therapy

Alkira Marriage and Family Therapy, PC 528 Oak St. Syracuse, NY 13203 315-492-1390 www.alkiratherapy.com

FA L L E XHI B I T ION

Pre-K through 6th grade Academic Excellence, Sense of Community, Safe & Secure Environment, Tuition Assistance, High Tech Classrooms, After School Care, Sports, Clubs, & Activities

Opening September 27

tours by aPPointment

(315) 446-4890 www.hcschooldewitt.org

601 1st St, Ithaca, NY • 607.272.0600 • www.sciencenter.org

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 9

9

8/21/14 10:22 AM

yelet | iStock

10 - Atypical

What Not to Say

Remarks heard while out and about | By Deborah Cavanagh

N

o one ever said “She just loves children” to describe me in my youth.

Santa brought me Baby Alive for Christmas when I was 7 years old. It cried, pooped, peed and ran a fever. It scared me to death. Within hours of opening the much-desired gift, I demanded my parents remove the batteries. Baby Alive ended up in the basement.

As a young adult I was never one to want to hold the baby. Hold the kitten: yes. Play with the puppy: absolutely. Pick up a squirming, noisy, and unpredictable infant: no way.

So it was a surprise to family and friends when my husband, Brian, and I announced we were pregnant with our first child. And it was a surprise to Brian and me when our daughter, Amanda, was born with Down syndrome and various health issues.

We spent the next few years in and out of hospitals.

Once all seemed settled we decided to expand our family to four and had our second child, Jason.

Our family was complete, with various critters happily added and sadly subtracted here and there. We began the “married with children” lifestyle. We went to amuse10

ment parks. We took day trips to beaches.

We enrolled in music classes, sports activities and play groups.

I finally started to feel like every other mom. Yes, my daughter had special needs.

And yes, I had a crazy, active boy. But life finally seemed typical to me.

Thus I was unprepared when friends, family and strangers would approach with comments regarding my parenting ability.

Some seemed genuine. A few felt like backhanded compliments. But mostly the words brought pressure to live up to this unrealistic notion of Super Mom. The statement I hear most is, “I would never be able to do what you do.” If I had been granted the ability to look at my “parent life” ahead of time and been asked, “Can you handle this?” I am certain I would have said “Heck no!” But mothers move heaven and earth to make their life the best it can be, and so do I. And there are other not-especially-welcome remarks.

“You have so much patience.” No, I don’t. Compassion maybe? Patience, definitely not. Matter of fact, I am ridiculously impatient. Ask anyone who knows me. I finish other people’s sentences. I walk fast, talk fast. I get really mad at my computer

for being too slow. I constantly change checkout lines at the grocery store. I want to vaporize the cars in front of me at the McDonald’s drive-thru.

“You certainly have your hands full.”

Every parent has her hands full. Children suck the life out of you. It is inconceivable how tired you can be after spending a day with a toddler. Doing homework with a sixth-grader. Negotiating with a teenager.

I have never met a parent who said, “I have all this extra energy after spending the day with my family. I think tomorrow I will go next door and see if the neighbors need any help with their children.”

“God gives special children to special people.” This makes me cringe. Usually, the person who says this doesn’t even know me, so even if I were truly special, which I am not, he or she would have no way of knowing. And I ask you, why do a high percentage of these special people choose abortion if they have a diagnosis in-vitro? You have to wonder even more when you hear about children with special needs being abused.

“You are only given as much as you can handle.” If that’s true, then please explain people who have breakdowns, families that fall apart, and stress that leads to addiction.

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 10

8/21/14 10:06 AM

11 “You are doing God’s work.” If “mom’s work” is “God’s work” then, yes, I am, but so is every other mom.

Yes, I am that mom who was at the park for hours climbing on the play structures with her children. I ran around the block holding the back of my daughter’s two-wheel bike every day for months until she could ride without training wheels. I have read Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Big Nate books with my son. I organize play dates and social gatherings. I attempt to harmonize songs to help with auditions.

Over the Rainbow Weekend

yelet | iStock

But I have also dragged my screaming 13-year-old daughter out of Target because after over an hour of staring at the “new releases” display she still could not choose which movie she wanted to buy.

I have buried my head in the clean clothes on the shelf in the laundry room and yelled obscenities when my son again deliberately overfilled his milk, making my daughter knock her orange juice glass to the floor on purpose, because spills upset her.

September 13 & 14

I have hidden their iPads and thought seriously about not giving them back.

Meet Dorothy and Scarecrow!

I have sent them to their rooms because I needed a “timeout.”

While there are moments I feel really good about being a mom, there are also those moments when I wish I could remove their batteries and put them in the basement. Maybe just for an hour or two.

My circumstances may make my parenthood atypical. But I think I am typical because I’m trying really hard to be the greatest mom I can be.

And maybe that is what I would like to hear the most: “You look like you are doing the best job you can do as a mom.” To that I could honestly look you in the eye and say, “Thank you.”

Deborah Cavanagh lives in Manlius with her husband and two children.

She has written for local organizations supporting children and adults with special needs and publishes the blog www.momofmanyneeds.com.

Schedule your visit, today!

Activities end at 4 p.m. daily.

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

museumofplay.org

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 11

Syracuse Family Times 1/2 page color 3.7 x 10 Pub dates: September PDF due: 8/15/14

Family Times September 2014

11

8/21/14 10:06 AM

12 - Health

Robert Spriggs | Getty Images

healthy Living

The Coping Toolbox

Good habits help kids deal with anxiety | By Laura Livingston Snyder

S

tress is everywhere and affects everyone. Children are no exception. But unlike adults, kids are rarely mature enough to explain that they’re feeling anxious or figure out how to deal with it. And parents might have trouble recognizing when their child is having anxiety.

Anxiety—another way of saying “stress” —can show up in several ways: frequent headaches or stomachaches, difficulty sleeping, moodiness or trouble paying attention. Helping your children learn how to manage stress early on will help them throughout their entire life.

Start by telling your child what certain signs of anxiety feel like. Knowing what they’re experiencing can help alleviate some of their fears. Ask your child what his nerves look and feel like. Does it feel like caterpillars playing in his tummy? Does he clench his muscles? Throw up? Bite his nails?

Most likely it’s anxiety, and, unfortunately it’s contagious: Children are affected by parents who worry about finances, job security or relationship pressures. Teachers see their students struggle with not only anxiety but anger and sadness when their parents are worried.

12

But children can easily be taught how to cope. Every one of us has a toolbox filled with positive ways of dealing with pressure. The more we take out those tools and use them when needed, the more we automatically put them into practice.

I have been a guest speaker at preschools and elementary schools for several years teaching kids what I pass on to my adult patients in the hospital: what to put in their toolbox and how to use those strategies.

Here are some of my suggestions: Talk with a parent or friend. When we talk about what happens in our life, we are able to identify our emotions and reactions to them. It’s also a great way to set free those bottled-up feelings.

Give your kids a chance to talk about what’s on their mind. There is power in the connection to others and knowing we are not alone in our struggles. A girlfriend of mine has a son who would rather text her about what goes on in his life than talk face to face. Some kids feel more comfortable confiding in Mom in the car while she runs errands. Opening those lines of communication in any fashion is an opportunity.

Have them run around outside. According to one Harvard Health Publications topic (health. harvard.edu), exercise reduces the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline, and stimulates the production of endorphins that put us in a good mood. For those with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety or depression who don’t respond well to talk therapy, exercise programs can decrease anxiety. Exercise is also great for our physical health. Set a good example and get the wiggles out together with an impromptu game of tag or ball. Too ambitious? Hold hands and take a nightly evening walk.

Offer healthy foods. Don’t expect cheap gas to give good gas mileage. Avoid caffeine and foods high in fat and calories, which can cause jitters or lethargy. Eating foods in their natural state, or minimally processed, is the fuel kids’ bodies need to grow, keep fit and combat stress. Start small with something simple like ants on a log (celery sticks with peanut butter topped with raisins) or apples dipped in Greek yogurt for a snack. Better foods can help alleviate stomachaches in youngsters. Eating meals together allows each member of the family to reflect on their day.

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 12

8/21/14 10:06 AM

A good night’s sleep. Lack of enough sleep or quality sleep puts the body and mind at a disadvantage. It creates grumpy, tired children who aren’t able to adequately process their feelings. The Sleep Foundation recommends toddlers get 12 to 14 hours of sleep a night, preschoolers 11 to 13 hours, and schoolage kids 10 to 11 hours. Preteens and teenagers should strive for 10 to 11 and 8 to 9½ hours regularly. Avoid or limit social media, especially in the late evening. Establish a regular routine and a schedule for lights out. Quiet time before bed gives our brains and bodies the signal they need to settle down to have restorative sleep.

Listen to music, draw, or play with friends. The hobbies we enjoy make us happier. Distraction techniques are a great way to get our mind off our problems and offer time for our emotions to calm down. I like to escape in a good book, while my niece prefers to color. I once read that actor Jim Parsons, who plays Sheldon Cooper on TV’s The Big Bang Theory, used to come home from school every day and play the piano for an hour before anyone could talk to him. These positive coping skills are great tools for any age.

Take a deep breath. Finding a quiet place to regroup is often helpful to little ones who are overwhelmed by too much stimulation. Taking a deep breath, slowly through the nose and blowing it out, triggers a relaxation response. Getting more oxygen to the brain with deep breaths helps us think more clearly, reduces the heart rate and aids in digestion. A friend I know has a daughter who would get awful headaches that would lead to vomiting when she was stressed at school. Reducing the noise and action by going somewhere quieter helped her calm down.

Help your child fill her toolbox so that she’ll have coping strategies when stress becomes unbearable. She might settle on one or two that usually do the trick for everyday situations.

For specific anxiety-provoking events, Stephanie Gilbert, a school psychologist in the Heuvelton Central School District in St. Lawrence County, suggests supporting your child by together coming up with strategies tailored to those challenges.

Teach study skills to prepare for a big test, anger management for interaction during a sports game, or social skills to implement when an oral report is coming up. Some kids, especially those with a diagnosed disorder such as autism, may have idiosyncratic needs and specific ways to self-soothe. Individualize what works best for them in the same way.

Sometimes talking with a licensed counselor is helpful. If you need help filling your child’s toolbox, consider contacting your child’s school counselor or psychologist for more suggestions.

Laura Livingston Snyder has been a psychiatric registered nurse for over a decade. Send email to her at editorial@familytimes.biz.

CALL NOW: 652-1875

Joan Condlin’s LiverpooL School of Dance Dance - It’s a Way of Life!

ages 21/2 & Up Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe & Lyrical sign Up for fall Classes!

www.liverpoolschoolofdance.com

7948 Morgan Rd., Liverpool Est. 1972 • Member of DEA

Practice

Robert Spriggs | Getty Images

13

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL CLASSES 2014-2015! ent enions v n Co cati Lo

Fab u Bir t lous hda y Par ties !

CLAY/BALDWINSVILLE RT. 57 MOYERS CORNER HAMILTON Route 12B- Newly renovated 7,000 sq. foot facility!

ParrysGymnastics.com • 458-5365 NOW ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT

The School of Dance

at the JCC of Syracuse

Everyone Welcome!

You do not need to be a member to join dance.

Members receive a discount!

Become a Full Fitness member and exercise excercise while your child is in class!

Ballet • Tap • Jazz Boys and Girls Ages 3-11

The School of Dance teaches Tap, Jazz, and Ballet with a focus on movement, rhythm, strength and flexibility. The emphasis is on fun, creativity and building self-esteem.

Busing available from some city schools, select private schools, FM and all public schools within the Jamesville Jameville-DeWitt School District.

Classes begin in September!

Registration Now Open

The JCC of Syracuse • 5655 Thompson Road in DeWitt 315-445-2360 • www.jccsyr.org Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 13

13

8/21/14 10:06 AM

14 - Learning

Fuse | Getty Images

live & learn

Life Skills

Important learning takes place outside school | By Michael Gilbert

W

hat do you really want for your children? I have asked hundreds of parents that question over the years, and the answers have been consistent.

What they want is for their kids to be happy, caring, independent, respectful and responsible. Parents hope their children discover their passion, their purpose and their creativity. And they worry how their children will be able to navigate the social world of their peers.

School is where many of these characteristics can be developed and nurtured.

Unfortunately, we can no longer assume that our educational system is designed for the best interest of students. With implementation of recent education policy there has been less emphasis on life skills. Where do creativity, persistence, compassion and character fit in the culture of Common Core standards and high-stakes testing?

Social and emotional learning, or SEL, is the process that leads to the acquisition of specific life skills that are at the heart of a child’s academic, personal, social and civic development. It is the process through which children develop self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision making. It is never too late for a child to acquire these skills.

14

In a typical classroom setting, a child also requires executive functioning skills such as paying attention, following directions and exercising self-control. But certain factors can get in the way of using these skills, among them: stress, trauma, poor nutrition, limited movement and lack of adequate sleep. Parents and teachers are able to foster the development of these skills in a variety of ways.

The home-school connection.

Teachers and parents must be on the same page in terms of a child’s schooling. This is not always easy, but it’s true that you and your child’s teacher both have your child’s best interest at heart. If you have a concern, contact the teacher right away. Don’t wait until things get worse. Teachers appreciate your insight regarding your child’s strengths, interests and needs. Forming a parent-teacher alliance gives an important message to your child that you expect the same respect and responsibility at school that you do at home. It also conveys that you value education. A daily report card or journal can help to ensure consistent communication.

Words matter. Use language in your praise and descriptions of your child that supports his continued effort and learning.

For instance, saying “you are hard-working” praises your child for trying hard when faced with challenging tasks. On the

other hand, children who are repeatedly told “you are smart” may become anxious or give up in the face of a challenge (They might think, “I’m smart. Shouldn’t I know how to do this?”). Similarly, parents can talk to their child when they see evidence of qualities they want to encourage. For example, “I could see that you were getting frustrated with your homework but you didn’t give up and worked through it. You were persistent.” Or: “I saw you were getting angry with your sister, but you walked away. That takes a lot of self-awareness and self-control.”

Catch them doing the right thing.

Focusing on what our children are doing right gives them important feedback about expectations and rules—without the need for lectures. When parents lecture, children tune out. Whenever possible, parents can identify, describe and express appreciation for steps, big and small, a child takes in exhibiting her positive choices. For example, “I appreciate that you followed my direction right away without complaining.

That shows respect and responsibility.”

Or “I noticed that you picked up your toys without being asked. That shows initiative and thoughtfulness.”

It is critical that we teach rules when our child or teen is available for learning— which is not during a negative situation.

We can unintentionally reward our chil-

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 14

8/21/14 10:07 AM

15

St. Vincent De Paul Day Care Center

UNIVERSAL YEAR OLDS Pre-K forPRE-K threeFOR and4four year FROM 9:00AM - 11:30AM!

olds available.

Fuse | Getty Images

Slow down and tune in. We are living in an increasingly fast-paced and social-media-driven world and need to be aware of the potential negative consequences. Extracurricular activities are great but need to be limited. Our children also need downtime.

Spend time outdoors, such as walking in the park or exploring nature. Playing games teaches cooperation and turn-taking.

Patience can be developed through activities such as puzzles and drawing. Children have amazing capacity for creativity, but it requires some nurturing and encouragement.

Mindfulness is a particular way of paying attention. It means being present and purposefully bringing awareness to one’s experience. It will foster better concentration, an increased sense of calmness and improved impulse control. Breathing exercises, guided meditation and yoga are examples of mindfulness activities. However, it can be as simple as having fun describing the feelings, tastes, textures and smells you experience when eating your favorite foods.

Learn

dren for breaking rules by reacting with extra energy and attention during outbursts and disruptions. Instead, we want to react in a neutral way to negative behavior through immediate, concrete and unemotional responses. Consequences are still given—but without elevated energy or attention.

WE CARE FOR CHILDREN WE 6CARE FOR Weeks - 12CHILDREN Years

6 Weeks - 12 Years MEALS SERVED DAILY: Breakfast, Lunch & Snack

MEALS SERVED DAILY:

BEFORE, AFTER SCHOOL & SCHOOL HOLIDAY CARE NOW AVAILABLE Breakfast, Lunch & Snack Monday - Friday 6:30am-5:30pm

BEFORE, AFTER SCHOOL & HOLIDAY CARE NOW AVAILABLE! 1103 BURNET AVE. • SYRACUSE, NY • (315) 476-7508 Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

1103 BURNET AVE. • SYRACUSE, NY • (315) 476-7508

Structure works. Kids need us to provide structure as well as clear and consistent boundaries. It helps them feel safe. Lack of structure often leads to nervousness and uncertainty. Having a general routine, especially at bedtime, is important.

Eat meals together whenever possible. It is a great time for conversation and sharing information. Limit screen time (television, computer, video games, and iPads) and turn off all screens at least an hour before bed. Reading to, and with, your children can be a great way to end the day.

You do not need to be a member to enroll.

Chores teach responsibility and build confidence. Try to be consistent with expectations for daily responsibilities and weekly chores.

Having structure does not mean there is no flexibility. Create flexibility within your structure by giving choices. With older children, you can let them know that you expect them to spend time each day in activities that are important to you, such as exercise, free play, quiet time or reading. Let your child set up her own schedule for when she will do these things.

Michael Gilbert, Psy.D., is a school psychologist with the Syracuse City School District and founder of the non-profit It’s About Childhood & Family, Inc. He has worked in a variety of settings with children and families for the past 25 years. He lives with his wife and two daughters in DeWitt.

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 15

15

8/21/14 10:23 AM

16 - Kids these days

Note to Self

As I teen, I didn’t listen to my mom either

By Maggie Lamond Simone

W

hen my kids were babies, I related to them as a mother; it was the only frame of reference I had.

I didn’t remember being a baby, and so I couldn’t necessarily empathize with, say, the frustration of not being able to verbalize thoughts or change the channel. I was their mother, doing what I thought was best for them. And they always listened.

Then one year it happened: They reached an age I actually remember being. From middle school on, I remember the drama, the angst, the Swedish clogs that everyone had but I couldn’t afford. At that point my mothering changed, because I could see it not only from my point of view, but my kids’ as well.

And I believe it’s making me a better mother. I’m more understanding of the hormone-driven reactions and behaviors, the relationship-driven reactions and behaviors, the growingindependence-driven reactions and behaviors. It’s easier to offer advice when I know exactly what they’re going through.

When did my kids stop listening to me? Probably right around when I started saying, “When I was your age.” So rather than share with my children the wisdom accumulated through my years of junior and high school, I’m going to give my high school self the advice I wish I’d gotten but couldn’t—because I didn’t listen to my mother, either.

Don’t let other kids determine your mood. You can’t control what they say or think; you can only control your own thoughts and actions. And don’t let anyone push you into a locker, either, even if it was “by accident.” Stand up for yourself. And stand up for your friends.

Try to learn to be happy with yourself, in all your uniqueness. Don’t compare yourself to your friends. Whether it’s weight, skin, hair, grades, wealth, sports: You are all different.

You’re friends because many of your individual qualities mesh.

Everything about you is special; it’s what makes you who you are.

And their “things” make them who they are. Celebrate yourself, and each other. Trust me, you’ll miss each other in a few years.

David Pereiras Villagrá | Getty Images

If only they’d accept it.

Don’t apologize for things you didn’t do. It’s a hard habit to break, but now is the time to break it. If you’re a chronic apologizer as an adult, it’s going to be a lot harder to be happy and to learn to advocate for yourself.

Listen to your gut. It’s that little voice inside you that makes you feel slightly uncomfortable with a situation or decision. From buying clothes to getting into someone’s car, you usually have an innate feeling. Remember that your gut’s only job is to look out for you, and whether or not you agree with what it’s telling you, it’s usually right.

Don’t let people treat you badly or disrespectfully.

That includes the aforementioned friends. If someone consistently makes you feel bad about yourself, question the friendship, not yourself. Same with a romantic relationship: If it doesn’t make you feel happy and positive, then move on. You don’t owe anybody anything in that department, except courtesy and respect.

The one piece of advice I would not give my teenage self—or my children—is the one I so desperately want to tell my own kids. I won’t tell them not to feel things as deeply as they do, even though 16

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 16

8/21/14 10:07 AM

17

the pain can be paralyzing. The teen years hurt, even more so today when kids are reminded 24/7 of what everyone else is doing. But that hurt does eventually pass. And the passion that allows that kind of hurt will one day propel you toward your dream.

And just like trying to give advice to a teenager . . . well, we all can dream.

“Then one year it happened: My kids reached an age I actually remember being. I remember the drama, the angst, the Swedish clogs that everyone had but I couldn’t afford.”

Maggie Lamond Simone is an award-winning writer and mother of two living in Baldwinsville. Reach her at maggiesimone@verizon.net.

Villari’s, America’s Arts Professionals since 1968, invites your child to experience the exciting world of martial arts this Fall.

Celebrate month Celebrateour Our46th 45thAnniversary Anniversarywith with1lessons through 2013, a private lesson, & uniform $45! of lessons, a private lesson & uniform forfor $46!

At Villari’s, we don’t just claim to teach children life-skills.

Rothschild Early Childhood Center 450 Kimber Road, Syracuse, NY 13224 www.rothschildearlychildhoodcenter.org (315) 445 - 0049 recc@adath.org

Before & After School Care - For children Kindergarten through 12 years old - For children in the Syracuse City & Jamesville-DeWitt School Districts - Healthy afternoon snack provided - Large indoor and outdoor spaces for play - Conveniently located near downtown Syracuse, DeWitt, Fayetteville, and Jamesville

David Pereiras Villagrá | Getty Images

Call to schedule a tour

We deliver.

Call now 427-8459 • www.villaris.net

Excellence in Dance Training for over 25 years.

DANCE CENTrE NorTh Creating the dancers of tomorrow, today!

Currently Registering for the 2014-2015 school year Classes beginning September 8th Dance Centre North is the host school for the premiere of CNY Arts New Ballet,

“Dasher’s Magical Gift,” as well as the 22nd annual Moscow Ballet “Great russian Nutcracker.”

Nutcracker auditions taking place at DCN on Saturday, September 20th starting at 2:00p.m.

For more information please call us or visit our website listed below.

101 W. Molloy Rd. Syracuse | dancecentrenorth.com dancecentrenorth@gmail.com | 315.455.8641

Enroll in Canterbury Stables After School Enrichment Program!

Now accepting Septemer 2014 registrations!

Hands on with Horses 3pm-6pm Monday-Friday Our experienced Canterbury trainers supervise classes of no more than 10 school-aged students as they learn about horseback riding and care. With professional instruction they will complete fun filled safe projects. When weather allows, there will be supervised outside exploration and play.

Learn about Horse Care

315-440-2244 for information and your tour!

5 Day Program

Fun Arts & Crafts Plenty of Active Play Time for Homework

Canterbury Stables CAZENOVIA, NEW YORK

4786 Roberts Rd. canterburystablesny.com Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 17

17

8/21/14 10:07 AM

Michael Davis Photos: Pages 19 & 21

It’s Not Busy Work

By Tammy DiDomenico

Teachers say homework matters

A

t the beginning of the 20th century, teachers didn’t assign much home-

work because parents didn’t want it to interfere with children’s chores. Today, students do twice as much homework as their counterparts did in the 1950s.

Homework is virtually synonymous with school—even for kindergarteners. But what role does homework serve in today’s classroom?

Family Times asked five veteran teachers about the role of homework in their classrooms, and what parents can expect in light of today’s educational demands. The condensed and edited interviews follow.

18

Family Times September 2014 Thinkstock/ Ekaterina Malyshkina

FT-Sept_Feature.indd 18

8/21/14 9:52 AM

Michael Davis Photos: Pages 19 & 21

Kindergarten Holly Giannuzzi has been a kindergarten teacher at Ed Smith Elementary School in Syracuse for 17 years, and has seen many changes in the kindergarten curriculum. With the adoption of the New York State Common Core, teachers of kindergarten through third grade have an increased responsibility to prepare young students for the rigors in the years ahead.

Giannuzzi lives in Camillus with her husband and two children.

How much time do you expect your students to spend on homework?

I assign homework Monday through Thursday. We begin homework in October and a weekly homework packet is sent home. Daily assignments should take no longer than 15 to 20 minutes. In addition to the daily assignments, parents are encouraged to read to their child every day.

Why homework in kindergarten?

Homework is designed to support the learning we do in the classroom. It allows students to review and practice the skills and concepts learned. Homework helps to establish the home-school connection and it involves parents as partners in their child’s daily learning experiences.

Are students too busy in the evenings to make time for homework?

Families are extremely busy, however they understand the importance of making time for homework. If parents can sit for 15 minutes and go over it with their children, it makes a difference.

What do you say when parents express concern about the workload in kindergarten?

Developmentally, all the kids are at different levels. It’s my job to figure out what they need and what approach works best.

“Homework helps to establish the home-school connection and it involves parents as partners in their child’s daily learning experiences.”

“The hope in fifth grade is that the students take more responsibility for their assignments.”

Elementary Scott Brann has taught fourth and fifth graders at Delaware Academy— where Spanish is the primary language for nearly half the students— in Syracuse for the past five years. Brann lives in Jamesville with his wife and two children.

Do you assign nightly work?

I expect students to work on homework for 30 minutes each night, Monday through Thursday. I assign a weekly packet for Reading and ELA (English Language Arts), which allows them to complete it at their own pace. I also assign Math homework nightly.

What is the purpose of a homework assignment?

The homework supports the topics we are studying at the time. The Reading/ELA homework packet practices skills that are learned during each week’s story. Math homework also supports the current topic, but may also be facts or problem solving practice.

Are you setting the tone for increasing independence?

The hope in fifth grade is that the students take more responsibility for their assignments, but I also communicate with parents or guardians to reinforce this focus. We talk throughout the year about preparing for middle school and beyond.

Are elementary students becoming too busy to give enough time to homework?

I think the homework that I assign can be completed, even if the student is busy after school. They can write me a note if the homework is too much. The Reading/ELA packet I assign also offers families a chance to limit homework on a busy night and complete it earlier or later depending on their schedule.

Family Times September 2014

FT-Sept_Feature.indd 19

19

8/21/14 9:52 AM

“To me, middle school is about learning how to succeed.”

Middle School Central Square Middle School’s Chris Walsleben, after 16 years teaching at this level, says she’s still learning how to navigate the spans of maturity and ability that her students have. Walsleben, a Brewerton resident, teaches seventh grade Life Sciences.

How much time should students spend on homework at this age?

For my class, I think they spend no more than 20 to 35 minutes—depending on reading ability.

Do you assign nightly work?

Yes, typically students read four to five pages and answer two to four questions. In an effort to support ELA expectations, I require them to use complete sentences to answer their homework questions.

How does homework figure into your grading?

Anything that’s late is 50 percent off. If that happens three or more times, students must come in for a working lunch. For many students, that’s the only time I can provide them with one-on-one help. Most students do not resist doing back work with me. Early on in the course I explain if they are neglecting homework and fail their tests, they are likely to fail my class. Ultimately, homework is 25 percent of the grade.

Are you encouraging students to become more independent?

High School William Preston has been an English teacher at Manlius Pebble Hill School in DeWitt for 14 years. He teaches American Literature (11th grade), AP Literature, creative writing, and a course on print-to-film adaptations. Preston, father of three adult daughters, lives in Syracuse with his wife.

How much time do you expect students to spend on homework?

If we’re reading a book, there’s an expectation of nightly reading. This can range from 20 to 30 pages each night. How much time that takes depends on the reader. Weekends enable students who read more slowly to catch up. Shorter writing assignments have at minimum a two-day turnaround; longer writing assignments are given more time. Research projects typically get two or more weeks.

What is the purpose of an assignment?

These are discussion-driven English classes, so there has to be a common knowledge of a text; nightly reading is inevitable. The writing may prompt students to further interrogate a text or express ideas in an organized manner. The writing may also involve something learned in class about written expression, such as sentence variety or a style of organization.

We try. We always wrestle with those questions: Are we holding their hand too much? I tend to push my students to do their best and praise them when I see even a minor improvement in their work. Generally, I don’t let them fail. I want them to see a path to success and take it. To me, middle school is about learning how to succeed.

How do high school students view homework?

As a welcome challenge? A necessary evil?

Generally, what do middle school students think about homework?

Parents should step away from overseeing high school homework. Students may need guidance getting started, and parents may need to help a student structure the stages of a long-term assignment. Reading the books your child is reading benefits everyone; it’s another check on a child’s progress, plus it gives the child another connection to the work, someone to talk to who isn’t tied to the school.

They accept it at this point. There’s definitely a correlation between their ability to read and write and completion of homework. As with most anything, if they’re not good at something they’re not going to want to do it.

However, like learning anything, it takes practice.

How involved should middle school parents be with homework?

The home-school relationship is critical. The sooner you can build relationships with parents, the better. Ultimately a student’s success is not just about the teachers’ efforts. It’s the combined efforts of parents, guidance counselors, principals, coaches and teachers that help guide students to the path of success.

20

If students see the work as relevant to the course, they’re more likely to do it. I don’t give busy work, and some nights, students have no work at all for my class.

How involved should parents of high school students be?

“These are discussion-driven English classes, so there has to be a common knowledge of a text.”

Family Times September 2014

FT-Sept_Feature.indd 20

8/21/14 9:52 AM

Senior Year Jessica Cuello has been teaching for 18 years, most of them at the secondary level. She currently teaches French and English at Marcellus Senior High School.

Many of her students are seniors taking advanced level course work.

Cuello lives in DeWitt with her husband and two children.

Why is it important to keep seniors engaged, and how can homework do that?

“Ultimately a student’s success is not just about the teachers’ efforts.

It’s the combined efforts of parents, guidance counselors,

Seniors have a take-home essay, projects, and some cultural assignments. The homework is challenging, and the responsibility is on them. Once they get to college, they’re not going to have a bunch of small, “Mickey Mouse” assignments to turn over. They will have more long-term projects and they will have to manage their time accordingly.

Generally, how do students respond to these expectations?

principals, coaches and teachers

If the assignment is meaningful, these kids will invest themselves in that assignment.

that help guide students to

With seniors, time management is something they are still learning. We’re teaching them not about getting nightly homework assignments done, but how to have three major long-term assignments going at once. My goal as a teacher is to make the work theirs. They own it.

the path of success.”

—Chris Walsleben

What is the parent’s role in the homework routine of a senior?

For each of my classes, the parent’s role varies. My best students are the ones whose parents are supportive but don’t try to manage them.

Are students spending enough time on homework these days?

Time management is always something I emphasize.

Some students might actually need to get a lower grade on something in order to readjust their priorities; they grow from that and learn to manage their time better.

Do you have any general advice for parents of this year’s seniors?

I would tell them to be engaged with their kids. Be interested in their lives. But let them make mistakes.

Even if it is painful, we have to impart the message that there is value in that.

Award-winning writer Tammy DiDomenico lives in DeWitt with her husband and two sons.

Family Times September 2014

FT-Sept_Feature.indd 21

21

8/21/14 9:52 AM

Calendar

22 - Calendar

SEPTEMBER 2014 AMY BOYLE PHOTO

Family Fun Events

Please note: Mistakes happen.

To confirm event details, call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website.

Monday, Sept. 1 LABOR DAY

Friday, Aug. 29

New York State Fair. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. See

New York State Fair. 8 a.m.-10 p.m.;

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 2 p.m. Vs.

Aug. 29 listing.

through Sept. 1. Food, concerts, rides, agricultural, animal, and arts and crafts displays. New York State Fairgrounds. $10/general; free, age 12 and younger.

Parking: $5. (800) 475-FAIR. www.nysfair.org.

Buffalo Bisons. Last home game of the season. See Aug. 31 listing.

Saturday, Aug. 30

Storytime. 10 a.m.; also Sept. 9, 16, 23 & 30.

Bring a child, ages 1-5, for books, songs, dance and fun. White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse. Free. 435-3519.

New York State Fair. 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; through Sept. 1. See Aug. 29 listing.

The Little Mermaid. 12:30 p.m. The Magic

Circle Children’s Theatre presents an original version of the fairy tale, in which children in the audience help save the Little Mermaid and the Prince from the Seawitch’s spell. Children can dress up as fairy tale characters to enhance their fun. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5.

449-3823.

Sunday, Aug. 31 Bubble Blast Run at the New York State Fair. 8 a.m. A 5K run, filled with bubbles

and foamy obstacles, benefits ACR Health and Operation Walk. State Fairgrounds, Geddes. $50/ day-of; $25/ages 7-16. (800) 475-2340. bubble blastrun.com.

New York State Fair. 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; through Sept. 1. See Aug. 29 listing.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 6:30 p.m.

Cheer the hometown Minor League Baseball team as they face the Buffalo Bisons on the grass field.

This game followed by fireworks. Alliance Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $5-$12.

Parking: $5. 474-7833. www.milb.com/index. jsp?sid=t552

Tuesday, Sept. 2

Wednesday, Sept. 3 Sciencenter Showtime. 10:30 a.m.; Wednesdays & Saturdays. Toddlers and preschoolers with their grownups can use their senses to explore like real scientists. An educator will share tips with parents. Sciencenter. 601 First St., Ithaca.

Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600. www.sciencenter. org.

Teen Geeks. 6-8 p.m. Kids in grades 7-12 can

hang out, play games, eat snacks and create. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free.

457-0310. lpl.org.

Multiple Moms Mingle. 6:30 p.m. Monthly

meeting of mothers and expectant mothers of multiples. Ruby Tuesday, 3220 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt.

Reserve: 308-0277.

Thursday, Sept. 4 Music Together Demo Class. 10:30-

11:15 a.m. Babies and children through age 5, with a grownup, can sing and dance with Green Lakes Music Together. DeWitt Community Library, Shop-

pingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd.

E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 446-3578.

Friday, Sept. 5 Syracuse Irish Festival. 5-10:30 p.m.; also

Sept. 6. This taste of Ireland features music, dance, culture and children’s activities. Clinton Square, downtown Syracuse. Free admission. 473-4330. www.syracuseirishfestival.com.

Saturday, Sept. 6 Arc Race. 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Event features a

half-marathon, 5K, 3K (family fun walk) and 1-mile fun run for kids, as well as live music, giveaways and a family fun zone (with a petting zoo!) to help raise funds for programs for people with developmental disabilities. Long Branch Park at Onondaga Lake Park, Longbranch Road, Liverpool. $10-$40/ depending on race. 476-7441, Ext. 1147. www. arcon.org.

Golden Harvest Festival. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; also Sept. 7. Arts and crafts, live music, storytelling, super-natural midway for kids, wildlife programs, and seasonal foods for sale. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/adult; $1/ages 6-17; free/age 5 & under.

638-2519.

Historical Society Craft Days. 10 a.m.-5

p.m.; also Sept. 7. Artisans selling their wares, live entertainment, children’s activities and house tours. Madison County Historical Society, 435 Main St., Oneida. $4/adults; $6/weekend pass; free/ under 12. 363-4136.

Grandparents’ Storytime. 11 a.m. Kids

and grandparents can hear the books How to Babysit a Grandma and How to Babysit a Grandpa by Jean Reagan. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Central New York Tomatofest. 11

a.m.-6 p.m.; also Sept. 7. Join the celebration of to-

Whether it’s enjoying the views, apple picking, romping with your kids in the play area, savoring our bakery treats or shopping in our general store there is always something to do on Apple Hill.

Join the tradition.

FALL HOURS: OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK, 10-6. beakandskiff.com | 2708 Lords Hill Rd • Lafayette, NY 22

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 22

8/21/14 10:07 AM

23

AMY BOYLE PHOTO

Calendar

mato season’s end—with crafts for sale, activities for kids, terrific food, and fresh produce. Proceeds benefit local food agencies. Emerson Park Pavilion on Owasco Lake, Auburn. Nominal admission; donations of canned goods encouraged. 252-2225. www.cnytomatofest.org.

Acoustic Music Celebration. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The Folkus Project presents a day of acoustic music. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt.

Free. 449-2948.

Syracuse Irish Festival. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

See Sept. 5 listing.

The Little Mermaid. 12:30 p.m. See Aug. 30 listing.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m.; Saturdays.

Each week explore a different topic in an interactive show. Sciencenter. 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600. www.sciencenter.org.

Sunday, Sept. 7 Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Sept. 23 & 24

Golden Harvest Festival. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

See Sept. 6 listing.

Historical Society Craft Days. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. See Sept. 6 listing.

Central New York Tomatofest. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. See Sept. 6 listing.

Monday, Sept. 8 Yoga for Everyone. 6-7 p.m.; also Sept. 15,

Anime Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens can watch anime

take part in a program combining books, songs and activities that promote learning and play at the preschool developmental level. Soule Branch Library, 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 435-5320 or 435-3395.

Thursday, Sept. 11

Where the Wild Things Are Storytime. 11 a.m. A special storytime celebrates 50

on the large screen, take part in drawing and trivia contests, and more. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

MOMS Club of Syracuse-East. 10 a.m.

22 & 29. Gentle yoga class. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Gathering for local kids and moms. Manlius United Methodist Church, 111 Wesley St., Manlius. Free.

466-6033. momsclubofcuseeast.webs.com/.

Tuesday, Sept. 9

Friday, Sept. 12

See Ongoing Events

Wednesday, Sept. 10 Creation Club Junior. 4-5:30 p.m.; also Sept. 24. School-aged children will learn introductory skills for making their own videos, podcasts and 3D models. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Irish Dance School Open House. 5-6 p.m. Kids age 4 and up can take a free lesson and learn about the program at Johnston School of Irish Dance. Johnston’s Bally Bay, 550 Richmond Ave., Syracuse. Free. 343-1998.

Pajama Storytime. 6-6:30 p.m. Children

ages 2-5, with a caregiver, can wear pajamas, bring a stuffed toy, and hear stories, songs and rhymes suitable for nighttime. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

La Festa Italiana. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; through Sept. 14. Celebrate Italian culture, including food and music, and watch some really good bocce players in the tournament (Saturday, 9 a.m.).

In front of Syracuse City Hall, downtown Syracuse.

Free admission. 622-3332. www.festaitaliana. bizland.com.

Saturday, Sept. 13 La Festa Italiana. 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; through

Sept. 14. See Sept. 12 listing.

Syracuse Stroll Baby Buggy Walk. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Rain date: Sept. 20.) Family event will feature a fitness walk in the park, plus music, food, face painting and more. Kirk Park, 1101 South Ave., Syracuse. Free. 424-0009, Ext. 106.

Sensory Friendly Storytime. 10:30 a.m.

Children with sensory integration issues or other special needs, accompanied by a caregiver, can

years of Maurice Sendak’s classic Where the Wild Things Are. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Arts and Puppet Festival. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Performances of music, puppetry, workshops and international food. International Mask and Puppet Museum, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. Free. 4760466.

Animal ABCs. Noon. A Rosamond Gifford Zoo staffer gives a presentation that features live animal visitors, animal artifacts and other fun; best for birth to age 5, accompanied by an adult. White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse. Free.

435-3519.

Oswego Garden Railway Open House. Noon-5 p.m. Marine-themed garden

railway runs along a retaining wall to the backyard.

Home of Keith Kostoroski, 209 Syracuse St., Oswego. Free. 342-3409.

Fulton Garden Railway Open House.

Noon-4 p.m. Railroad includes original oval and access to a three-track staging yard. Home of Jim Leach, 10 Harris St., Fulton. Free. 402-2399.

The Little Mermaid. 12:30 p.m. See Aug. 30 listing.

Proudly serving CNY since 1975 FREE estimates www.JandBseamlessgutter.com 315-487-8993

Pediatric Associates, LLP Caring for CNY children for more than 40 years. www.PediatricAssociatesNY.com

LIVERPOOL 8086 Oswego Rd. • 652-1070 CAMILLUS 601 North Way • 487-1541

FREE PRENATAL CONSULTATION STAFF ON CALL 24 HRS. A DAY

• Gutters and Downspouts • 5-Year warranty on workmanship • .032 Gauge Aluminum Gutters • 20 Custom Colors Available • 20-year warranty on Manufacture Finish Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 23

23

8/21/14 10:09 AM

Calendar

Sponsored by the Onondaga Park Association.

Most Holy Rosary, 111 Roberts Ave., Syracuse. $5/ adults; $2/kids. 478-5749.

Fall Market Extravaganza. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Drop in for Crafts. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Children from preschool age to grade 6 with a caregiver can make seasonal crafts; all materials provided.

Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

La Festa Italiana. 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. See Sept.

Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also Sept. 25. Preschoolers and caregivers can take part in a program with stories, songs and rhymes. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Farm products, seasonal items and crafts for sale.

Also pony rides, games and more for a nominal fee.

Lysander Town Hall, 8220 Loop Road, Baldwinsville. Free admission. 635-5999.

12 listing.

Jewish Music and Cultural Festival.

New York India Festival, Sept. 20

Cardboard Challenge. 2 p.m.; also Sept. 20.

Kids ages 6-14 are invited to use their imaginations and build something out of provided cardboard and recycled materials. Other OCPL branches are also taking part in the challenge; call for details: Betts Branch Library (435-1940); Paine Branch Library (435-5442); Soule Branch Library, with Petit Branch Library (435-5320); and White Branch Library (435-3519). Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. 435-3395. Free.

Sensory Friendly Time. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

MOST staffers turn down the noise, turn off the flashing lights and shut off the air compressors so people with sensory issues can enjoy the museum.

Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Cost: $5.

425-9068, Ext. 2143.

Sunday, Sept. 14 Pancake Breakfast. 8-11 a.m. Eat all the

pancakes you want and help fund Onondaga Park.

Thursday, Sept. 18

Noon-6 p.m. Kosher food, ethnic arts and crafts, Jewish music and dancing, and children’s activities.

Jewish Community Center campus, 5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt. Free admission. 445-0161.

Monday, Sept. 15 See Ongoing Events

Tuesday, Sept. 16 Tween Tech Talks. 5-6:30 p.m. Kids ages

8-12 can learn about popular, useful technology and how to make it work for them. In this session, they can learn about an audio tool for recording songs and voiceovers, and changing music files. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Wednesday, Sept. 17 Lego Brainstorm. 3:30-5 p.m. Kids in grades 3-5 will learn basic Lego robotic programming and then form teams to design and program a robot to complete a mission. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Friday, Sept. 19

PHOTO COURTESY OF NY INDIA FESTIVAL

24

Star Party. 8-10 p.m. Participants can view

some of the outer planets including Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. (Backup date is Sept. 20.) Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

Saturday, Sept. 20 New York India Festival. 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Art gallery, dance and music lessons and performances, children’s activities, and more. State Fairgrounds, Geddes. $7. (860) 899-6344. nyindia festival.wix.com/nyindiafestival.

Great Chocolate Train Festival. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. A celebration of the 1955 train accident (with no serious injuries) that spilled chocolate goods in the village, the festival features children’s activities, live folk music and more. Village of Hamilton offices, 3 Broad St., Hamilton. Free. 825-3537. www.thegreatchocolatefestival.com.

Book and Bake Sale. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Used books, games, puzzles, music CDs; and homemade baked goods for sale. Bag ($2) sale 1:30-4 p.m.

NOPL at Cicero Library, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. 699-2032.

Music and Movement Classes

Register NOW for our 10 week fall session!

Mixed age classes for ages 0-5 & the grownups who love them.

Now introducing a Babies class for new families with a baby ages 0-8 months!

Fayetteville-DewittSyracuse-Clay

Call 446-1017 for a free sample class!

Visit greenlakesmusictogether.com for more info

Tune in Wednesday, September 24, 2014, at 9:15 a.m., for columnist Maggie Simone’s preview of what’s in the next edition of Family Times!

on the air with

Ted & Amy in the Morning on 24

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 24

8/21/14 10:09 AM

25

39017

PHOTO COURTESY OF NY INDIA FESTIVAL

Calendar

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 25

25

8/21/14 10:09 AM

26

Calendar

FREE Set-up and Delivery Moonwalk/Air Bouncer Rentals

Morning of Mushrooms.

We do all the Work and You have all the fun!

•Birthday Parties •Celebrations •Church Functions •School Fundraising •Try one of our Water

www.FunJump.biz • 378-9202

Pig rOast sunday, sept. 28

10:30 a.m.-noon. Spend the morning foraging for fungi in the woods.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8.

Register: 673-1350.

Ask Us How We Protect You!

Slides!

The Little Mermaid. 12:30 p.m. See Aug. 30 listing.

Early Autumn Paddle. 4 p.m.;

16’ x 16’- Holds up to 8 kids

Springside Farm FALL is A-MAZING

Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze 1850 Rt 91, Pompey

(3 mi. south of Rt 20, 2 mi. north of Rt 80) Weekends, Sept. 12 - Oct. 31, 9am - 5pm, Fridays 1 - 5pm U-Pick Pumpkins, Corn & Grass & Jungle Mazes, Ziplines, Pedal Cars, Gift Shop, Farm Petting Area, Wagon Rides, Corn Cannon, Tunnels & Slides, Food

Flashlight night- Oct. 31, 6-9pm:

handicap & stroller accessible

BOnFire, s’MOres, Bring yOur Own Flashlight!

(315) 683-5860 • springsidefarm.net

Always Dancing!

“Always Dream, Always Dance”

Classes for all levels Ages 2 years and up

Currently registering for our 2014-2015 season Join our award-winning competition team!

76 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville

315-638-3018

www.alwaysdancing.org 26

Animal ABCs. 10:30 a.m. Children under age 5 and their caregivers can hear a story and meet an animal from the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

also Sept. 27. A naturalist leads an early-evening paddle, with a break on an isolated point to snack on cheese, crackers and cider. Beaver Lake Nature Center parking lot, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $25/ including canoe rental. Registration required: 638-2519.

Bats. 7-8:30 p.m. Spend an evening indoors and out, and find out why bats are beneficial creatures with undeserved reputations. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

Oz with Orchestra. 7:30 p.m.

Symphoria performs to a remastered version of the movie The Wizard of Oz, playing new transcriptions of Harold Arlen’s lost scores. Costumes encouraged! Mulroy Civic Center, 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $20-$79.

299-5598.

Sunday, Sept. 21 Brain Aneurysm Foundation Run/Walk. 9 a.m. 5K run,

1 mile walk, half-mile kids fun run, plus bounce house, games and more to recognize brain aneurysm survivors and remember Doris A. Connor.

Oneida Shores Park, 9400 Bartell Road, Brewerton. $10-$25. Give. bafound.org/2014RunForDoris.

Westcott Street Cultural Fair. Noon-6:30 p.m. The funkiest

neighborhood in the city puts on its annual festival, with live music, dancing, crafts for sale, and a chance to learn about local nonprofit organizations. Children’s performances and activities take place at the Petit Branch library on Victoria Place.

Westcott Street between Concord and Dell streets, and on side streets, Syracuse. Free. 703-6848. www. westcottstreetfair.org.

Monday, Sept. 22 See Ongoing Events

Tuesday, Sept. 23 MOMS Club Membership Event. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. MOMS Club

of Syracuse-East gives local mothers a chance to learn about the group.

Food, games, car seat checks, identification cards and more. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 466-6033. Email: momsclubofcuseeast@yahoo.com.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. 7 p.m.; also Sept. 24. The

touring production of the Broadway musical is the story of Belle and the Beast she discovers in a forest castle. Landmark Theatre, Salina St., Syracuse. $38.45-$88.25. 475-7979 or 424-8210.

Wednesday, Sept. 24 Birth Basics. 6:30-8 p.m. Preg-

nant women can bring their questions to this fun and informative meeting with members of CNY Doula Connection. Mother Earth Baby, 210 Franklin St., Watertown. Free.

395-3643.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. 7 p.m. See Sept. 23 listing.

Thursday, Sept. 25 See Ongoing Events

Friday, Sept. 26

www n

See Ongoing Events

Saturday, Sept. 27 Liverpool Public Library Book Sale. 9-5 p.m.; also Sept.

28. More than 80,000 books and CDs. Early bird sale, Saturday, 8-9 a.m.; $10 admission. Bag sale, Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Liverpool Elementary School, 910 2nd St., Liverpool. 4570310. lpl.org.

Dinomania Opening Day. 10

a.m.-5 p.m. Kokoro Exhibits’ realistic animatronic dinosaurs return. Firstday activities include a special speaker and a chance to dig for dinosaur eggs your child can keep. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Museum admission: $10/adults; $8/seniors and ages 2-11. 425-9068.

Sensory Friendly Storytime. 10:30 a.m. Children with

sensory integration issues or other special needs, accompanied by a caregiver, can take part in a program combining books, songs and activities that promote learning and play at the preschool developmental level.

Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 435-5320 or 435-3395.

Sportsmen’s Days. 11 a.m.-5

p.m.; also Sept. 28. Festival is an opportunity for those of all ages to try outdoor pursuits such as skeet shooting, turkey calling, archery, fly fishing, canoeing and muzzle loading. Demonstrations by woodsmen and displays

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 26

8/21/14 10:09 AM

27 - CALENDAR

Party Planner Calendar

IS LIMITED! AVAILABILITY TODAY! RTY BOOK YOUR PA

7

PITER JUMPIN JU DQUARTERS

IS YOUR

ERS NC BOU

EA PARTY H

STAR TING AT

$99

S

UMP SESS NJ IO PE N O

P

I

DS

Vote for your favorite local businesses! www.syracuse newtimes.com

A

Y RT

PACKAGE

Award Winning Birthday Part ie s!

$2 Wednesdays

R PLAYGRO U N

OO D N

Where Exercise and Fun Bounce Hand in Hand!

S

NEW UT OUR CHECK O CO ROOM! IS D S KID

JUMPIN JUPITER 1426 N. SALINA STREET 1 MILE FROM DESTINY USA | KIDS FROM 1-12 YEARS OLD | 315-313-JUMP(5867) FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.JUMPIN2JUPITER.COM FACEBOOK.COM/JUMPIN2JUPITERSYR

Throughout September

li vE2BouncE.com (3 1 5 ) 2 9 9 -8 0 9 6

Now ev eN mor e toddler f r i e N d ly

U p s ta i r s i n D r i v e r s v i l l a g e • C i C e r 0, n Y

JOIN US FOR THESE GREAT EVENTS! Brought to you by

in collaboration with The FacePaint Lady Friday, September 26th

5-8pm

Fall Ball Tea Party With Princesses Ariel, Belle & Tiana Monday, October 13th

Spiderman Stunt Show Visit our website for more info.

Presale tickets only for both events

kidzclubfun.com • (315) 695-2211• 219 Rt. 57, Phoenix Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 27

27

8/21/14 10:24 AM

Calendar

28

The Little Mermaid, Saturdays throughout the month

Family Fun!

abbottfarms.com KATHE HARRINGTON photo

sign up for our e-newsletter

Fall Festival

Every Weekend from Labor Day to end of October

U-PICK

*while supplies last

of local wildlife art. Beaver Lake Nature Center parking lot, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Admission: $5/vehicle. 638-2519.

The Little Mermaid. 12:30 Blueberries — *September Apples — Through October Now Booking Birthday Parties, Tours & Events.

Call for Information

3275 Cold Springs Road Baldwinsville, NY 13027 638-7783

p.m. See Aug. 30 listing.

Make a Banned-Books T-Shirt. 2:30 p.m. Kids ages 5-12

can design and make a T-shirt with the cover of a banned book on it.

(Harry Potter and Captain Underpants books are included in that number.) Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free.

435-5326.

Early Autumn Paddle. 4 p.m.

See Sept. 20 listing.

Sunday, Sept. 28 National Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk. 10:30

a.m. (registration at 9:30 a.m.).

Individuals with Down syndrome along with their friends and families promote acceptance and advocacy with a two-mile walk; followed by picnic lunch and festivities. Music

by TJ Sacco & the Urban Cowboys.

Long Branch Park, Longbranch Road, Liverpool. Free. T-shirts/$10-$17.

Registration required: 682-4289. www.dsaofcny.org.

Liverpool Public Library Book Sale. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. See Sept. 27 listing.

Sportsmen’s Days. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. See Sept. 27 listing.

Wild Mushroom Festival.

1-4 p.m. Members of the Central New York Mycological Society lead woodland hikes in search of mushrooms (1 & 1:30 p.m.); also, demonstrations on cooking, growing your own mushrooms and making paper from mushrooms. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Admission: $4/ vehicle. 638-2519.

Monday, Sept. 29 Tinker Tots. 10-10:45 a.m.

Children ages 3-5 will have handson opportunities to learn, explore 28

and invent. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free.

637-6374.

Drop in for Legos. 2-7 p.m.

The library provides Legos (and Duplos for younger kids) for children to build with. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 4570310. lpl.org.

Tuesday, Sept. 30 See Ongoing Events

ONGOING EVENTS Wegmans Playground.

Boundless Playground for children (and parents) of all ages and abilities includes accessible swings, slides, bridge and more, including special section just for the tiniest tykes.

Onondaga Lake Park, Route 370, Liverpool. Free. 451-PARK.

Weekend Walks With a Naturalist. Saturdays and Sun-

days, 2 p.m. Nature discovery hike with different topics each weekend.

Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville. Admission: $4 per vehicle. 638-2519.

Downtown Syracuse Farmers’ Market. Tuesdays, 7 a.m.-4

p.m.; through Oct. 7. Farmers and produce dealers offer vegetables, fruit, nuts, flowers, baked goods and more for sale. Clinton Square, Syracuse. 4228284. www.downtownsyracuse.com.

Fayetteville Farmers Market. Thursdays, 3-7 p.m.; through

Oct. 30. Twenty-five vendors selling items such as artisan cheeses, eggs, baked goods, fruits, vegetables and more. Parking lot, Towne Center, Fayetteville. 691-2327.

Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails. Daily, dawn to

dusk. Visitors can grab their walking shoes and explore 4.5 miles of wellgroomed, flat trails. Trails feature a 900-foot boardwalk, osprey nesting platform, and wetland and grassland restoration areas. The area is a stop for many migratory waterfowl and songbirds; other wildlife include muskrats and beavers. Great Swamp

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 28

8/21/14 10:25 AM

29

The Ultimate Indoor Activity

LOCATED ON 3rd FLOOR IN DESTINY USA

Adult & Junior Karts (Must be 48” tall) Birthday Parties & Corporate Events Gift Certificates Available for Purchase Kart Speeds Up to 45mph

SFT

Video Games & Sports Memorabilia 9090 Destiny USA Drive Syracuse, NY 13204 315-423-RACE (7223) This location is an independently operated franchise owned by Destiny Raceway, LLC

Live On Stage!

©Disney

KATHE HARRINGTON photo

Calendar

ELECTRIC GO KART RACING

Sept. 23-24 - Landmark Theatre BroadwayInSyracuse.com

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 29

29

8/21/14 9:26 AM

ATTRACTIONS

Conservancy, 3.5 miles off I-90, Exit 34, 8375 N. Main St. Canastota. Free. 697-2950.

Erie Canal Museum. 318 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed holidays. Free. 4710593. Interactive exhibit: Work the Weighlock. The Stonecutters: Exhibit reveals the fascinating world of the stonecutters and quarrymen who built the 83 locks and 18 aqueducts along the 363-mile Erie Canal.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center.

Hiking trails and parking are free and open every day from dawn to dusk. Little Naturalist backpack program allows preschoolers and their families to explore the center through activity-based backpacks available for sign out at the Interpretive Center.

Interpretive Center open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Sundays. 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. 673-1350.

Barnes & Noble Storytimes. Thurs-

days, 10 a.m. Join a storytime for toddlers and preschoolers that’s features a book, songs and coloring. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt.

Free. 449-2948.

Maxwell Library Storytimes. Story-

times and book groups for all ages. Call for dates and times. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. 672-3661.

Northeast Community Center Library Storytimes. Preschool storytimes

with rhymes and occasional games; youngsters learn group listening and participation skills. Call for times. Northeast Community Center Library, 716 Hawley Ave., Syracuse. Free. 472-6343, Ext. 208.

DeWitt Community Library. Library

offers hundreds of free programs for parents and children. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. 446-3578.

Fayetteville Free Library Storytimes. (Excluding holidays.) First Steps:

(Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.) for children up to age 2.

Pre-K Storytime: (Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.) for ages 3-6. Cuddletime: (Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.) for babies not yet walking and an adult. Fayetteville

Bats, Sept. 20 Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free.

637-6374.

Petit Branch Library Storytimes.

Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. Toddler and preschooler storytime for children ages 18 months-5 years and caregivers. Includes stories, rhymes, finger plays and songs. Petit Branch Library, 105 Victoria Place, Syracuse. 435-3636.

Syracuse Go Club. Every Monday, 7-10 p.m.

Wegmans sit-down dining area, 6789 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville. Club devoted to the ancient Chinese game of Go; players of all ages. Free.

479-9073.

Regional Market Farmers’ Market.

Saturdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. (year-round); Thursdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (May through November only).

Shop seasonal produce, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, specialty foods and more on display throughout covered sheds; heated shops of Regional Market Commons feature gift and unique items including jewelry, paintings and home decor. Also, flea market, Sundays, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 2100 Park St., Syracuse.

422-8647.

Everson Museum of Art. 401 Harrison St. Tuesday-Friday, Sunday, noon- 5p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5 donation. 474-6064. Worldclass museum includes Children’s Interactive Gallery designed to acquaint beginning art viewers with basic art principles, with areas dedicated to portraiture, hands-on activities, and a classroom.

Museum of Science and Technology (MOST). 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square,

Syracuse. Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Museum admission: $10/adults; $8/seniors and ages 2-11. IMAX admission only: $10/adults; $8/ children and senior citizens; (473-IMAX). Planetarium (only available with museum admission): $2. 425-9068. Hands-on science center features the Bristol Omnitheater, Science Playhouse, Earth Science Discovery Cave, Technotown, and Flight and Space Exhibit. Silverman Planetarium shows “Zoo in the Sky,” for kids under age 8, Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays, 11:15 a.m.; “Seasonal Sky” Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays, 3:15 p.m.

PlazacCameraman | Getty Images

Calendar

30

Onondaga Historical Association Museum. 321 Montgomery St., Syracuse.

Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Donation. 428-1864. Syracuse’s only comprehensive local history museum, with exhibits on architecture, local industries, transportation and more.

Est. 1963 30

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 30

8/21/14 10:10 AM

31

Calendar

elmcrest PlazacCameraman | Getty Images

early education center

960 Salt Springs Rd., Syracuse, NY 13224

Small Wonders Daycare Infant • Toddler • Preschool • UPK Open 7:30 a.m. — 5:30 p.m. Monday - Friday September and

• NYS certified & experienced teachers • Early literacy curriculum focus • Bright, engaging, integrated setting • Supportive child/teacher ratios • Nurturing and caring environment • Indoor & outdoor motor areas • Breakfast, lunch & afternoon snack • Syracuse City UPK classrooms FREE 8-1 with option for extended daycare www.elmcrest.org • Please contact Gretchen at 446-3220 or by email at Glee@elmcrest.org for enrollment information.

Faith & Values, Academic Excellence, Family & Community

This is the Immaculate Conception way

PRE K — 6 th GRadE

• Pre - K Program

We’re your neighborhood

Pediatricians

• Technology Integration

• Full Day Kindergarten

(all grades)

• Spanish (starting in Kindergarten!)

ApplICAtIonS now beIng ACCepted.

Call Mrs. Lisi, 637-3961, for more information and/or a personal tour.

Immaculate Conception School holds the prestigious Middle States Accreditation

400 Salt Springs St., Fayetteville www.icschool.org

We are conveniently located & would be delighted to have your child as our patient.

Drs. Kristina Hingre, Elizabeth Nguyen, Nick Massa and, Celeste Madden.

475 Irving Ave. Suite 210 • Syracuse, NY • 315-471-2646 • www.mipeds.net Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 31

31

8/21/14 9:26 AM

32

Calendar

Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park. 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $8/adults; $5/senior citizens; $4/children; free/age 2 and younger. 435-8511. Ongoing attractions include Humboldt penguins.

Sciencenter. 601 First St., Ithaca.

Molly’s Wish, Inc. was formed to provide awareness, educate and support in the fight against Puppy Mills and animal abuse.

The Miles for Molly Walk is the Second Annual Puppy Mill Awareness Walk!

Where? Driver’s Village outside and around mall, East Circle Dr., North Syracuse NY When?

Saturday, October 4th 2014 10:00am - 3:00pm

10:00am — Registration 12:00pm — Walk 1:00pm — Dog Rescue Event with Adoptable Dogs, Speakers, Vendors, Raffle items, 50/50 and Soundjunction DJ services For more information, please e-mail: mollyswishinc@gmail.com To Learn more about Molly’s Wish: www.mollyswish.org www.facebook.com/Mollyswishinc

CNY GYM

CENTRE FALL REGISTRATION SPECIAL

Register and pay in full for 2 months and get $10 oFF the 3rd month!

Classes are filling up fast-

CaLL Now!

Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Admission: $8/ adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/ under 3. Eighteen-hole mini-golf course: $6; free/under 4. (607) 2720600. www.sciencenter.org. Inspires people of all ages to discover the excitement of science through exhibits and programs.

Strong National Museum of Play. 1 Manhattan Square,

Rochester. Admission: $13.50; free/ younger than 2. (585) 263-2700.

Permanent exhibits include National Toy Hall of Fame with inductees such as alphabet blocks, Barbie, Crayola

crayons, G.I. Joe and the ever-versatile cardboard box. Also, super-sized kids’ market and more; lunch available at Bill Gray’s Skyliner Diner.

WonderWorks. 9090 Destiny

USA Drive, Syracuse. Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Experience more than 100 hands-on exhibits, compete in a game of lazer-tag and take part in the Canyon Climb Adventure. Suspended 70ft in the air it’s the World’s largest indoor ropes challenge course. General admission: $24.99 (plus tax)/adults $16.99+/children (4-12) and seniors (55 plus);. Add lazer tag: $3+. Add the Canyon Climb: $10+. Canyon Climb only: $14.99+. Sky Tykes only (48 inches tall and under): $7.99+ (Included in general admission for children 48 inches tall and under). Lazer tag only: $6.99+ (replays $2.99+). Children age 3 and under are free. 466-7700.

Wonderworksdestiny.com.

Calendar listings are free!

Send information about your family-friendly event to: Family Times calendar, 1415 W. Genesee St., Syracuse; fax to 422-1721; or email to editorial@familytimes.biz.

Include date and time of event, location with numbered street address and town, price, and phone number for publication. We give priority to low- or no-cost events aimed at parents, kids, or parents accompanied by kids.

For consideration, listings are due by Sept. 5 for the October issue.

Art Zimmer theAtricAl Productions AT THE HAMILTON PALACE THEATER

A NOSTALGIC TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE All profits donated to local non-profit Saturday, September 13 - 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, September 14 – 2:00 p.m.

THE QUEENS OF PURE COUNTRY Featuring the music of Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, Reba McEntire, Kitty Wells, Dottie West and Barbara Mandrell $20.00 Advance, $25.00 at the Door Tickets - call 315.824.1420

2014-2015 Fall Schedule online.

For more information visit our website CNYgymcentre.com

www.palacetheater.org Tickets for Sunday show are 2/3 sold as of June 15.

Shoppingtown Mall • 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Dewitt • 437-4535 Great Northern Mall • 4155 St. Rte 31, Liverpool • 622-4600 32

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 32

8/21/14 10:10 AM

33

Your local Child Care Resource and Referral Agency, serving Onondaga County since 1975 & Cayuga County since 2009.

CHILD CARE SOLUTIONS NAVIGATING THE WAY TO HIGH QUALITY CHILD CARE

Start Your Search For High Quality Child Care Here!

Contact Us For:

Child Care Referrals Parent Guide to Finding High Quality Child Care Guidance on Choosing The Right Care Information on Paying For Child Care Information on Starting A Child Care Business @ccscny

Call: 315 • 446 • 1220 ext. 303 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

Toll Free: 888 • 729 • 7290 ext. 303

Web: www.childcaresolutionscny.org Email: parenthelp@childcaresolutionscny.org 6724 Thompson Rd • Syracuse, NY • M-F • 8:30-4:30 34 Wright Ave • Auburn, NY • 13021 • T-F • 8:30-4:00

Jet Set . . . or Chillin by the Fire Send your brand on vacation with our huge selection of travel gifts and incentives!

431-2787 spinnakercustom.com

1415 W. Genesee St. Syracuse, NY Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 33

33

8/20/14 4:30 PM

34 - BACKPACK

“My child would never gamble.”

wanna

BET?

BACK PACK CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY To advertise call 472-4669 and press 2.

October Issue Deadline: September 12, 2014

My child would never gamble

wanna Gambling mightBET? seem like

Gambling might harmless funseem at firstlike butharmless can become an obsession and fun at first but can become an can lead other risky obsession andtocan lead to other behaviors. More than risky behaviors. More than financial financial health is at risk. health is at risk.

Activities

Employment NOW HIRING!!! $28/HR. Undercover Shoppers Needed To Judge Retail & Dining Establishments. PT/FT. No Experience. If You Can Shop - You Are Qualified!! www.AmericanShopperJobs.com

Samurai Action Class Focus, fitness and fun for ages 4-10!

Taught by Jonathan Reid, MS Pediatric OT 2550 Erie Blvd.,449-2332, aikidoofcny.com

Health & Wellness CANADA DRUG CENTER. Safe and affordable medications. Save up to 90% on your medication needs. Call 1-800-734-5139 ($25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.)

Lessons

Body Recognition Class

Kidsthat that gamble gamble are: Kids are: 

to to drink · more morelikely likely drink to to smoke · more morelikely likely smoke more· likely to be toinbe trouble more likely in with trouble the withlaw the law

make n a c s Parent erence a diff IT’S TIME TO HAVE THE GAMBLING IT’S TIME TOTALK… HaVE

IT’S NOT NICKELSTaLK… AND DIMES THEJUST GaMBLInG For more information or to schedule a parent IT’S NOT JUST NICKELS AND DIMES presentation contact:

For more information or to (315) 471–1359 schedule a parent www.PreventionNetworkCNY.org presentation contact:

(315) 471–1359 PreventionNetworkCNY.org 34

movement. music. instruments. imagination.

We will explore the motions of our bodies with dance. For children 8 mos.-5 yrs old.

Birthday parties available. Call Tamar @ 446-2750 or www.toddlerstango.com

Automotive

Horseback Riding Lessons Bylund Hill Stables Jen Bylund 315-391-7559 www.CazenoviaHorses.com Jen@bylundstables.com

Services

$18/Month Auto Insurance Instant Quote - Any Credit Type Accepted - Get the Best Rates In Your Area. Call (800) 869-8573 Now.

Birthday Parties

Painting, Remodeling, Flooring, door & window install./plumbing & electrical bathroom, kitchen, basement Retired teacher, 35yrs exp.

Joe Ball 436-9008 (Onondaga County only)

LEGO® Birthday Parties Have a LEGO® enthusiast?

Now scheduling LEGO® Birthday Parties featuring motorized model builds, race car factory, minifigure factory, games and more!

315-632-8592 www.bricks4kidz.com/cny

Educational Services Attend College online from home: *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality.

Job placement assistance.

Computer available.

Financial aid if qualified. SHEV Authorized.

800-494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com

What’s in our Backpack Giveaway?

Live2Bounce

One free bounce coupon!

To enter: Send all contact information to promotions@ familytimes.biz with “Bounce” in the subject line.

Entry deadline Sep. 15, 2014

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 34

8/21/14 9:26 AM

35

Fall

Sale September 15th - 27th

20%oFF

all In-stock fabrics, trims & pillow forms

Make your home safer this holiday season.

The LiteRise® cordless system operates Hunter Douglas shades with an easy lift of a handle. No dangling pull cords mean a safer home for children and pets. Right now, take advantage of special savings with select purchases.

SEPTEMBER 16 – NOVEMBER 4, 2014

Hunter Douglas is a proud supporter of the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC). Visit windowcoverings.org for important window covering safety tips, news and more.

SPECIAL SAVINGS on the LiteRise cordless operating system.

Ask for details.

Duette® Architella® Honeycomb Shades

The Fabric Mill

5900 East Seneca Turnpike Jamesville, NY 13078 M-F: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sat: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 315-492-0336 www.thefabricmillcny.com

Ask about

The Art of Window Dressing idea booklet

Measuring and Installation

with this ad

TM

Follow Us At Facebook or Twitter

© 2014 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. SAF14MB1 44439

Family Times September 2014

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 35

35

8/20/14 4:30 PM

36

Name: Syracuse Children’s Theatre Width: 7.1 in Depth: 9.5 in Color: Any color Comment: Request Section: 502 Zone: Market: 8 Coupon: No Ad Number: 125214

FT Sept - Base Edition.indd 36

8/21/14 9:28 AM