Family Times January 2016

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The Parenting Guide of Central New York www.familytimes.biz | January 2016

Books to cope with loss Parents can help kids deal with divorce

Up, Up and Away Spurts, pains and other signs of growth

Sending your teens into the world

The Wellness Issue

family times • january 2016

4 • Editor’s Note 6

6 • Health Qs

5

All about growth, from babies to teens.

4 3

8 • Kids These Days

Teach your young people, and then step back and watch them take on the world.

2 1

10 • Family Matters

After a divorce, calm communication between parents is key.

6

12 • Views & Reviews

Books can help children grieve deep losses.

12

Capture a Moment Beyza, age 18 months, plays in her Syracuse neighborhood in this photo taken by her mother, Merve Yavuzdemir.

We welcome reader submissions, whether photos of your kids or their artwork. Send high-resolution photos (jpg format saved at 3-inches-by-5-inches or larger) or color artwork to editorial@ familytimes.biz. Please include the child’s first name, age, hometown, and information about what’s going on in the photo (or the art), as well as the parent or guardian’s full name and daytime phone number, for verification.

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Family Times January 2016

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Family Times January 2016

3

family times The Parenting

Guide of Central New York

january 2016

issue No. 165

PUBLISHER/OWNER Bill Brod EdItOR IN cHIEf Reid Sullivan editorial@familytimes.biz

It’s OK

MANAGING EdItOR Bill DeLapp PHOtOGRAPHy EdItOR Michael Davis

I

n my experience, the kind of parents who reading parenting magazines (and blog posts and newspaper articles and books) can be prey to anxiety about their kids, at least sometimes.

So one of the missions of Family Times is to reassure parents. Most of the time it’s going to be fine. And even if things are not going to turn out as we would hope, allowing ourselves to fall apart at the whiff of a crisis never helps. It doesn’t help our kids, it doesn’t help our spouses, it doesn’t help our parents, and it doesn’t help us. Remain calm; take a breath; this too shall pass.

As I write this, my mother is suffering through a major health crisis. I am trying to follow my own advice in order to remain steady for those who depend on me.

In this wellness-themed issue of the magazine, we aim to allay your concerns with articles about children’s growth patterns (page 6); teens’ security (page 8); and raising kids after divorce (page 10). Also, Merrilee Witherell writes on page 12 about books she recommends to help families grieving a loss.

For education, distraction and relaxation, there are Central New York events to check out in the January calendar. But at this time of year, admittedly, there are fewer things to do after the burst of holiday festivities. And, for me—and I hope for you—that’s just fine.

Happy New Year!

cIRcULAtION dIREctOR Tom Tartaro (Ext. 134) cREAtIvE SERvIcES MANAGER Meaghan Arbital GRAPHIc dESIGNERS Robin Turk, Renate Wood dIGItAL MEdIA MANAGER David Armelino cONtRIBUtORS Deborah Cavanagh,Tammy DiDomenico, Aaron Gifford, Eileen Gilligan, Linda Lowen, Cary Rector,Tonja Rector, Maggie Lamond Simone, Laura Livingston Snyder, Chris Xaver AdvERtISING cONSULtANtS Lesli Mitchell (ext. 140) LMitchell@syracusenewtimes.com Lija Spoor (ext. 111) LijaSpoor@syracusenewtimes.com Mike Banks (ext. 115) MBanks@syracusenewtimes.com cLASSIfIEd/BAckPAck Lija Spoor (ext. 111) GENERAL MANAGER/cOMPtROLLER Deana Vigliotti (ext. 118) OffIcE MANAGER Christine Burrows

Reid Sullivan Editor in Chief

On the cover: Cover kid Carlton Garnes of Liverpool is growing at a super rate.

Inside: The Garneses are, from left, Allen IV, 16, father Allen III, Kyle, 8, mother Lia, Carlton, 10, and Calvin, 14.

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5

health Qs

Growing Pains

Sometimes it’s hard growing older —even for kids

F

By Tammy DiDomenico

rom the time children are born until they are buying their own clothes, parents spend a lot of time thinking about their growth.

Babies tend to go through steady periods of growth that are closely linked to their nutritional intake. These patterns are studied very closely by their pediatricians. As children reach puberty, the growth patterns are far less typical, and can be (literally) painful. With teen boys growing as much as five inches in a single year, it can sometimes feel like more like a metamorphosis than a gentle transition.

Robert Dracker, M.D., medical director for Summerwood Pediatrics—with offices in Liverpool and Camillus—has been addressing parent concerns about growth spurts and growing pains since he opened his practice in 1993. (This interview has been edited and condensed.)

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Family Times January 2016

Family Times: Parents of infants are often very concerned about their babies hitting certain growth milestones. Should they be?

Robert Dracker: I think the main priority is that children are gaining weight at the proper pace. If the child is gaining weight accordingly, generally speaking the length and the height progresses. The nutritional status of the child will reflect in their growth. Poor nutrition will show itself in the growth curve. If there is a pattern of poor nutrition, the weight will drop, then the length will start slowing down. Eventually, head circumference will be affected. You can see those fluctuations, and that’s one of the reasons why we see babies so frequently.

A single drop in weight gain is not something to be worried about. But a trend is something we would want to help the parent change. We don’t see problems very often in our practice, but we generally try to help parents address those kinds of issues quickly.

FT: What is happening within the body when a child has a growth spurt?

RD: Children grow at regular rates . . . about a couple of inches per year. They’re not growth spurts in younger children. Some children will have more accelerated rates of growth than others.

And those rates may come at different times for different children.

When children hit adolescence, there are some general trends.

There may be height gains of several inches in one year, and less in others. In addition to the growth in height, boys tend to put on weight right before puberty, whereas girls tend to do it after they go through puberty—in preparation for their childbearing years.

FT: What can a child’s growth patterns tell us about how tall they will eventually be?

RD: You can’t predict that—not accurately. So much has to do with quality and quantity of nutrition; that’s the most critical thing parents can do for their children. Hereditary factors come into it.

Steve Hix/Fuse | thinkstock photo

FT: Toddlers are very active and they are growing so much but are often rather picky eaters. What can parents do to ensure their little ones have the nutritional support they need for proper growth and development?

YOU’RE INVITED...

RD: I sometimes have parents add Carnation Instant Breakfast to milk or give them something like PediaSure. Breastfeedng infants usually start to slow down on the nursing just before the one-year mark. So, we have discussions about adding whole milk and supplements; then a multivitamin supplement for older children.

We find the same kinds of issues when kids get older. They are busy, they are playing sports, and they’re eating. In fact, their parents say they are eating noticeably more—but they’re not always getting the right kind of nutrition. Some even lose weight, and this can alarm their parents. I tell the kids all the time, “You need to get the good calories.”

FT: As children get older, there is more talk of “growing pains.” Medically, what is actually causing these pains?

RD: It varies a lot. Teens grow an average of three and a half to five inches during their preteen and teen years. The growth plates in the legs are meant to allow the long bones in the legs to grow until adulthood. But the cartilage can become inflamed. Usually these pains are nothing to be concerned about. They can be treated with an over-the-counter pain reliever. But these pains should always be checked out if they are interfering with a child’s regular activities.

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There are conditions that can add to a child’s pain. Chondromalacia patellae is when the kneecap becomes irritated from overuse.

Or Osgood-Schlatter, a condition of the growth plates in the long bones of the legs that causes an actual lump, or ridge, of tissue to form under the kneecap.

FT: Are these kinds of orthopedic conditions in teens and preteens becoming more common?

RD: No. it’s always been that way. I don’t think it’s really changed. We regularly check for them. Sometimes, you can see the signs of a problem just by looking at the knees. Generally, these conditions can be treated easily. Kids can reduce their activity, or use ice after sports.

FT: The combination of rapid growth and excessive sports seems to be an unhealthy one for teens. What do you recommend to your patients?

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RD: Yes, the increased performance expectations can be contributing to these kinds of injuries. Parents want to make sure their children are not suffering from overuse. We see kids who are playing multiple sports, and often on more than one team in these sports. That can be too much.

FT: Can this stress on the growth plates during teens’ final growing years cause permanent damage?

RD: There is the potential for long-term damage with these conditions, absolutely. Children sometimes need to see an orthopedist for treatment.

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FT: When should parents be concerned about slow growth with their teens?

RD: Things usually work out in time. There is no real time limit, but if symptoms persist or are progressive in nature, then we do more exploring. Beyond the nutritional and general health factors, we look at genetics. We may recommend hormone testing. Any symptom that is becoming worrisome, we check into it.

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

For dinner ticket information visit www.syrdio.org or call the Catholic Schools Office at 315-470-1450 Family Times January 2016

7

Out in the World

Eventually, our kids become responsible for their own safety | By Maggie Lamond Simone

I

t seems like we spend our kids’ childhoods preparing them for the dangers of the world.

I remember learning about those dangers as I grew up, watching my mom waiting up for my older brothers, and thinking about them when I had kids of my own. From their infant car seats so they’re safe in a collision, to outlet covers so they don’t stick their little fingers in sockets, to toilet lid anchors so they don’t . . . whatever it is we’re afraid they’re going to do with an open toilet, we’re careful.

And we try to teach them to be.

We immunize them against diseases, and we feed them healthy food so their bodies can continue to fight diseases on their own. We teach them about playground safety and bullies and looking both ways before crossing the street. We teach them bicycle safety and make them wear helmets and whatever equipment their

8

Family Times January 2016

sports demand to minimize the chances of getting hurt.

We teach them not to talk to strangers and to be wary, even, of people they know.

We tell them not to hitchhike and to walk in pairs and wear reflective clothing after dark. We send them to karate to learn some self-defense but mostly, at that age, because maybe they’ll walk with a little more confidence. Eventually we teach them about safe sex and the dangers of drugs, alcohol and nicotine. We monitor their Internet use and social media presence for peace of mind that they’re not being stalked or cyberbullied or worse.

And then we send them out with 3,000-pound machines, because they’ve learned the rules of the road and the traffic laws and what to do in most weather situations and what the penalties are if they speed. And we experience a fear like we’ve never experienced—because now we’ve

sent them out with other 3,000-pound machines that we—and they—have no control over.

That’s when reality sets in. There will come a day, sooner rather than later, when they leave home, and we will no longer have any control over our children’s safety.

Every piece of information, every minute of practice, every promise of caution becomes meaningless when another’s carelessness—or agenda—touches their lives, especially if we are not there to protect them.

Certainly they will learn hard lessons when they leave; it’s expected, necessary, even. They will return from their first years at college and first independent travels with a maturity that may surprise even them, realizing what they’ve accomplished. And always, always, there will be the relief I remember on my mom’s face when my oldest brother first walked back

through the door from college—the staggering relief that he was home, safe.

Ilene Layow,

When Paris was attacked in November, my daughter was frightened. She wanted me to tell her it wouldn’t happen here, that we’re different, somehow. I couldn’t tell her that, and so I reminded her of all the ways she’s learned to take care of herself through the years, and of all the exciting and challenging doors that are opening for her every day.

encrier | iStock photo

I told her to walk through those doors and live her life the way it was meant to be lived. Many parents have had similar conversations with their kids these last couple months, because we don’t want them paralyzed with fear every time they leave the house.

We’ve taught them to be careful all of these years for exactly that reason: so they don’t have to be afraid. It was not just to keep them safe in that moment. It was to prepare them for real life, so that they don’t live in fear of what others may or may not do.

So that they, instead, can use their gifts and talents to find a way to make the world a less scary place. And we’ll be waiting up, no matter how late, until they remember to text us that they are, in fact, safe.

Because as parents, it would seem the only people we don’t prepare, in the process of getting ready to send our kids into the world, are ourselves.

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

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Parenting After a Divorce Ex-spouses can ease the way for kids | By Cary and Tonja Rector

D

ivorce is stressful for both parents and children. In large part the stress for parents is wondering how their child will cope with the divorce.

The good news is parents can do several things to make the changes easier on kids, leading to better adjustment.

Every family is unique, as are the circumstances surrounding separation and divorce. In our clinical work we realize how important it is to appreciate these specific differences and the different emotional temperaments of each family member.

There are, however, several universal factors that make a significant difference in the post-divorce lives of children.

Despite divorce, you remain the parents of your children. Responsible parents will be there to share in their child’s life. There will be celebrations, medical appointments, sporting events, graduations, weddings, and perhaps even grandchildren. Remember, divorce is an adjustment process for everyone involved that can span many years.

The relationship a child has with her mother or father is unique, and parents should try to ease and preserve these relationships after a divorce. What you experience as spouses and what children experience in the process of a marital separation or divorce are very different. Your 10

Family Times January 2016

child does not have the same emotional history as you have as a spouse.

Children love their parents and will miss a parent when they are not with them.

Children commonly grieve that their parents are no longer living in the same house together. Work to be empathetic about your child’s position. Your child’s emotional experience can range from anxiety, sadness and grief to relief that his parents are no longer together. From your child’s perspective, hearing negative comments from his parents about each other is troublesome and leads to additional problems.

Here are some important points to keep in mind: Keep the kids out of it. The No. 1 thing parents can do to help their children make a positive adjustment to a divorce or separation is to protect them from ongoing conflict. Exposure to ongoing conflict between their parents is more harmful than the actual separation or divorce.

Separation and divorce for parents is frequently adversarial and emotionally charged. Both parents experience an array of strong, often painful, emotions that can be difficult to manage. However, as adults you need to take care of yourself and yet continue to parent and take care of your children and their needs.

Communicate directly with your fellow parent. Figuring out how to communicate as parents about your children

after a divorce is critical. The forms of communication can range from meeting and directly discussing parenting issues to only using text or email. Over time some parents find as they rebuild their lives they improve on their methods of communication.

If parents have a way to communicate directly with each other, this helps keep children out of the middle of adult parenting issues. Do not ask your child to give his mother a message about next week’s visitation. And if Mom needs to change a pickup time for next week, communicate directly with the father, and don’t involve your child.

Maintain a boundary between adult matters and children. Family Court proceedings, money, child support, visitation problems, unpaid bills and tuition are all adult matters. Do not talk to your child about these issues or let her overhear you having a conversation about these concerns.

Accept that you cannot control much of what your ex-spouse does with the children. Even under the best of circumstances in a marriage, negotiating how to parent with a single voice is a major task, requiring compromise. With a divorce everything becomes more complicated.

Parenting after a divorce can be viewed as on a continuum from “parallel parent-

Anna Frajtova | iStock photo

ing” to “cooperative parenting,” according to JoAnne Pedro-Carroll, Ph.D., author of Putting Children First: Proven Parenting Strategies for Helping Children Thrive Through Divorce.

In parallel parenting, contact between the parents is limited or eliminated. Communication is done only through texting, email or a third party. There is no flexibility or negotiation regarding visitation or residence schedules.

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When there is a history of high conflict or domestic violence, parallel parenting is appropriate. In contrast, cooperative parenting is when parents are able to talk directly with each other and find compromise and agreement.

With cooperative parenting, there is more flexibility in visitation and residency. Over time some parents are able to move toward cooperative parenting. Even with cooperative parenting there will be some differences in house rules, such as bedtimes, chores, TV shows, food choices and allotted time a child is allowed to use electronics. Focus on what you will do or not do, and don’t spend a lot of energy and time trying to change the other parent’s position.

Children have trouble transitioning from one parent’s home to another. As a parent anticipate such difficulties and work to make transitions as easy and predictable as possible. When children are with one parent, they often miss the other parent. The age of your child may affect which parent or house he is most comfortable with.

If your child wants to take a new toy or gift to the other parent’s house, let him do it (and fight the impulse to comment on how the other parent should buy one for his or her house). If your son or daughter wants to call his or her mother or father during your visitation, or have a picture of his parent or carry a special toy back and forth, make it possible. When your child returns to your home, structure your schedule to spend some time with him; maybe have a snack together or play a game.

Reading books together is a wonderful way to help your child. Sitting down and reading a book on divorce with your child can give you a format and structure to help your child explore her feelings and develop an understanding of what divorce is all about. For young children, Dinosaurs Divorce, A Guide For Changing Families by Marc Brown and Laurie Krasny Brown and Two Homes to Live In, A Child’sEye View of Divorce by Barbara Shook Hazen are among our favorites. For older children, Why Are We Getting a Divorce

by Peter Mayle is an excellent book.

There are many other helpful resources for you and your child. Many schools have groups where children share their experiences with peers also experiencing family changes. The community has numerous resources that offer support to you and your child. Contact Community Services offers Children 1st Workshops for separating or divorced parents; call 2511400, Ext. 132 or visit contactsyracuse.org.

Parents help children make a better adjustment to divorce when they make the child’s emotional needs and perspective a priority.

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.

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11

views & Reviews

Coping with Loss Books can help kids grieve and heal

By Merrilee Witherell

A

s adults, we know that death and dying are an unavoidable part of life. Children, however, may struggle with both the concept of death and the grieving process.

A number of children’s books address the topic of loss; their subjects range from the death of a pet to the grief of being close to someone who has memory loss. Sometimes a good book can be the start of healing.

Good-Bye, Jeepers: What to Expect When Your Pet Dies by Nancy Loewen is the story of a character whose pet guinea pig dies. The first-person narrative is the primary story, with the main character learning of his pet’s death, experiencing mixed emotions over the first few days, and ultimately honoring his pet and sharing stories with others who have experienced similar losses.

Text boxes on each two-page spread address the reader directly with statements such as “Talking about your pet is a way of honoring him or her.” Ideally suited for children ages 3 to 7.

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst is a book that primarily focuses on the connections between people, encouraging children to draw strength and courage from their relationships, even when they are separated from those they love. In the book, this includes knowing that one’s “invisible string” even reaches those we love who have died. This is an affirming book that would be very helpful in preparing children to deal with separation anxiety.

When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown (author of the Arthur series and related television program) is a nonfiction book that speaks to the conflicting emotions caused by loss. Beginning with definitions of life and death, the book goes on to address the many ages and 12

Family Times January 2016

circumstances under which death may occur. Therefore, if a child is confronted with the loss of a young sibling, or a death caused by suicide, this book touches on the topic and may help a child feel less alone.

On the other hand, if the death is the loss of a grandparent, messages about grieving could be lost amid the mentions of death by drug abuse, military conflict or, more vaguely, poverty and prejudice.

Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox is a touching story of a boy who befriends a woman living in the nursing home next door.

Other residents there feel sorry for her because she has lost her memory. His attempts to understand the nature of memory result in him making a collection of objects that he shares with his friend. This exceptional book could help children understand the mysterious workings of memory loss in their loved ones, and offers a potential path to making a connection with someone whose memory works very differently than it once did.

Gentle Willow: A Story for Children About Dying by Joyce C. Mills uses the metaphor of a tree dying to explain the fact that some illnesses cannot be overcome, even in those who are not old. The characters in the story celebrate the life of the dying willow tree, offer comfort as they can, and cherish their memories of the tree. With an introduction and notes to parents by both the author and another therapist, this book goes beyond a beautifully told story to offer concrete suggestions and ideas for

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dealing with the serious illness and death of a child, in terms of helping that child, as well as his or her siblings, cope with such a devastating loss.

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When Someone Very Special Dies: Children Can Learn to Cope with Grief by Marge Heegard is my hands-down favorite for addressing this topic.

For children above age 6 or so, capable of expressing themselves through artwork and writing, this book goes beyond explanations by offering specific actions to promote healing. In its pages, children are invited to draw pictures of changes in nature, such as seasons and caterpillars.

Later in the book, children are prompted to draw pictures of their loved one, to draw those things that may cause people to die, and to write about things that make them sad, fearful or angry. The book goes on to encourage children to think about how they like to be comforted, and even to address any regrets they may have about things they wish they had or hadn’t done.

The book concludes with pages on which children can focus on the special people still in their lives and think about ways to care for others. It ends with a mostly blank page topped with the phrase, “I can still have fun and be happy! Living means changing and growing.” Words to live by, indeed.

Merrilee Witherell is the K-12 librarian at Red Creek Central School District. She lives in Cayuga County with her husband, daughter and dogs, all of whom love a good story.

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Calendar

January 2016 Please note: Mistakes happen. To confirm event details, call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website.

Wednesday, Dec. 30 Aladdin. 12:30 p.m. The Magic Circle Children’s

Theatre presents an original, interactive version of the tale, in which children in the audience can dress as a fairy tale character and help Aladdin find the magic lamp and win the princess’ heart. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5. 449-3823.

Meet Orchestra Musicians. 1-2 p.m. A viola duo performs. NOPL at Brewerton, 5437 Library St., Brewerton. Free. 676-7484.

Puppet Making Workshop. 5 p.m. An Open

Hand Theater staffer teaches children ages 8-14 to make simple jointed puppets that can be manipulated through scenes and stories; supplies provided. Mundy Branch Library, 1204 S. Geddes St., Syracuse. Free. 435-3797.

Teen Decoupage. 6-8 p.m. Teens can learn the art of decoupage and make something (perhaps a picture frame) to take home; materials provided.

Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream. 7 p.m.;

through Jan. 3. Onondaga County War Memorial, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $20 and up. 4352121.

Thursday, Dec. 31 Noon Year’s Eve. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Ring in the “noon” year with a dance party, a ball drop and a sparkling juice toast at noon. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Admission: $8/adults (ages 19-61); $5/ over age 62; $4/ages 3-18; free/age 2 and younger.

435-8511.

Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream. Noon;

through Jan. 3. See Dec. 30 listing.

New Year’s Craft. 2 p.m. Kids age 5 and up

can make a holiday-themed craft. Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free.

435-3395.

Puppet Making Workshop. 2 p.m. An Open

Hand Theater staffer teaches children ages 8-14 to make simple jointed puppets that can be manipulated through scenes and stories. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-1900.

Sunday, Jan. 3 Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream. 1 & 5 p.m.

See Dec. 30 listing.

Teen Mug Cake Bake. 3 p.m. Teens can make

mini cakes in a mug; supplies and mugs provided.

Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-1940.

Chemsations. 2 p.m.; also Jan. 17. Local high school students demonstrate chemical reactions with color changes, bubbles and light. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600. www.sciencenter.org.

Friday, Jan. 1

Monday, Jan. 4

NEW YEAR’S DAY

WeDo Lego Robotics. 4-4:45 p.m. Children in kindergarten through grade 2 in teams of two will use a kit to build and program a robot. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free.

Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream. 2 p.m.; through Jan. 3. See Dec. 30 listing.

Saturday, Jan. 2 First Snow Leopard Day. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

See snow leopards, Humboldt penguins, red wolves and other animals for half price through Feb. 29. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $4/adults; $2.50/ age 62 & up; $2/ages 3-18; free/age 2 and younger.

435-8511.

Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream. 11 a.m., 3 & 7 p.m.; through Jan. 3. See Dec. 30 listing.

Meet the Orchestra. 1 p.m. Kids in K-grade

4 can learn about the flute and violin from two musicians. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1944.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m.; Saturdays.

Every Saturday, see an interactive presentation on a different aspect of science. Upcoming topics include: birds, dog behavior, chemistry, and more.

Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/ adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3.

(607) 272-0600. www.sciencenter.org.

Make a Calendar. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Kids ages 5-12 can make their own 2016 calendar and keep track of birthdays, holidays and more. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free.

435-5326.

Yoga for Everyone. 6 p.m.; also Jan. 11 & 25.

One-hour class of gentle yoga for all ages. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free.

435-1944.

Tuesday, Jan. 5 Yoga for Families. 10:30-11:15 a.m.; also Jan.

19. Kids ages 3-6 and their parents can take part in a full-body experience that features puppets, stories, songs, yoga poses and breathing exercises. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

PJ Storytime. 6:30-7 p.m. Kids can wear paja-

mas, bring a stuffed animal, sing songs and make a simple craft. NOPL at North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 458-6184.

Wednesday, Jan. 6 Read, Sing, Play Storytime. 10 a.m.; also Jan. 13, 20 & 27. Children ages 2-5 can take part in stories, songs, fingerplays, music and more. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free.

435-5442.

Creation Club Junior. 4-5:15 p.m.; also Jan. 20.

Students in grades 3-5 can learn skills for using technology for everything from 3D printing to Family Times January 2016

15

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Family Times January 2016

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and create—video-game free, in this version of Teen Geeks. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Thursday, Jan. 7 Astronomy 101. 7-8 p.m.; also Jan. 14 & 28. For teens age 12 and up and for adults, a chance to make telescopes, stargaze and learn about the cosmos. On poor-weather days, there will be indoor hands-on activities. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Friday, Jan. 8 Toddler Dance Party. 10:30 a.m. Children age 18 months to 5 years can dance, play musical instruments, play with bubbles, and more. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 446-3578.

CNY Reads One Book Kickoff. 7 p.m. Learn about how the book To Kill

a Mockingbird will be celebrated throughout the season and get a taste of Syracuse Stage’s upcoming theater production based on the book. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Saturday, Jan. 9 Paws and Books. 10:30-11:30 a.m.; also Jan. 23. Children ages 6-12 can read to Cooper, a trained dog certified as a Canine Good Citizen. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Exploring Science. 10:30 a.m.; also Jan. 16, 23 & 30. Parents can engage

with toddlers and preschoolers in self-guided, hands-on science activities. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Alice in Wonderland. 12:30 p.m. The Magic Circle Children’s Theatre

presents an original, interactive version of the story of a girl’s escapade down the rabbit hole. Children in the audience can dress as a fairy tale character, become part of the Queen of Hearts’ Royal Court, and help Alice in her adventure. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5. 449-3823.

Drop in Family Games. 1-3 p.m.; also Jan. 30. Come play games for

children ages 5-12. Parents, caregivers and preschoolers (who can play with Duplos) also welcome. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free.

457-0310. lpl.org.

Faith Academic Excellence Service

Bishop Grimes Scholarship/Entrance Exam & Open House OPEN HOUSE

Wednesday, February 3 • 5:30-7pm 46183_5

Teen Geeks Lite. 6-8 p.m. Teens can hang out, play games, eat snacks,

Learn

game design. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

SCHOLARSHIP/ ENTRANCE EXAM

Saturday, February 6th • 7:45am (pre-registration recommended)

Meet the Orchestra. 1 p.m. Children in grades K-4 can meet members of the orchestra and learn about instrument families in this Onondaga County Public Library series. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 446-3578.

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, Jan. 10 Moto-Inventions. 1-2 p.m.; Sundays in January. Tinker with recycled mate-

rials and electricity to make whirling, moving machines. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Free admission Jan. 10. (607) 272-0600.

Monday, Jan. 11 Comfort Measures for Childbirth. 6 p.m. CNY Doula Connection presents an event to help pregnant women learn tips and tricks for a comfortable birth. Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes. Light snacks provided.

Simpson Family Wellness, 309 Kasson Road, No. 1, Camillus. Free. Registration recommended: 447-4343.

Tuesday, Jan. 12 Signing Storytime. 10:30-11:05 a.m.; also Jan. 26. Parents and young children can learn six to seven signs that correspond to the week’s story. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Teen MOPS. 4-6 p.m.; also Jan. 26. Young mothers, ages 13-21, with chil-

dren under 6 enjoy a faith-based program with fun, food and activities while their children are cared for by the childcare program. Liverpool First United Methodist Church, 604 Oswego St., Liverpool. Free. Call or text: 569-2542, (518) 441-3690 or 412-4054.

We look forward to welcoming YOU to Bishop Grimes!

For admissions information and testing registration please call: (315) 314-7157 or email scollins@syrdiocese.org

6653 KIRKVILLE ROAD EAST SYRACUSE, NY 13057 Family Times January 2016

17

Learn PRE K — 6 th GRadE Faith & Values, Academic Excellence , Family & Community

This is the Immaculate Conception way

Try Snowshoeing; see Ongoing Events

Wednesday, Jan. 13

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, January 31st Noon - 1:30 pm

Homeschool STEAM Club. 3-8 p.m. Children can learn about science,

technology, engineering, art and music through hands-on activities and experiments. Parents and siblings welcome. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Anime Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens can watch an anime on the projector screen and then participate in activities, which change each month. Cosplay is welcomed but must be deemed appropriate by library staff. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Thursday, Jan. 14

Now offerINg A fuLL DAy Pre-K Program

Smartplay. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Children age 6 and under can explore a free-

play environment that promotes discovery, creativity and the development of early literacy skills. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

Free. 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Trail Tales. 1 p.m.; also Jan. 28. A naturalist reads two nature-themed sto-

Pre - K Program, Full Day Kindergarten, Technology Integration all grades, and Spanish (starting in Kindergarten!)

ries and then leads a hike whose theme matches the stories; for children ages 3-5, accompanied by an adult. Beaver Lake Nature Center parking lot, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $4/parking. 638-2519.

Art Masters. 4-4:45 p.m. Children in kindergarten through grade 2 can explore the art of major artists and make their own works inspired by the masters. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 6376374. www.fflib.org.

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

Friday, Jan. 15 Winter Wonderland Family Fun Night. 5-8 p.m. Little princes and

princesses will enjoy a night of singing, dancing and playing games with Oswego

CNY DeNtal arts PllC

Daniela Chobor DDS

SewSyracuse Seamstress

400 Salt Springs St., Fayetteville www.icschool.org 18

Family Times January 2016

Private and small group sewing lessons www.sewsyracuse.com 315-427-1994

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Accepting Most Major Insurances

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Calendar

County’s Princess Pearl. For children up to age 8. KidzClub Indoor Play and Party Place, 219 Route 57, Phoenix. $10/advance, per child; $12/at door, per child. 695-2211. www.kidzclubfun.com.

Junior Café Scientifique. 9:30-11 a.m. The Technology Alliance of Central New York presents a talk by Skaneateles High School junior Alexander Wulff, who will discuss electronics development and coding. The talk is geared toward middle school students, who must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees can visit the exhibits after the presentation. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free. Register by email: jrcafe@tacny.org.

Preschool Fair. 10 a.m.-noon. Parents can meet with representatives

from local preschools and kids can enjoy activities. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Cubelets Beginning Robotics. 10:30 a.m. Children ages 6-12 can experiment with magnetic robot blocks that snap together and learn basic robotics principles. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free.

435-5442.

Winter Living Celebration. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Outdoor activities and

demonstrations include cross-country skiing, horsedrawn sleigh rides and winter camping. Indoors there’ll be live music, children’s crafts, nature-related exhibits, and refreshments for sale. Rogers Environmental Education Center, 2721 State Highway 80, Sherburne. Donations. (607) 674-4733.

Alice in Wonderland. 12:30 p.m. See Jan. 9 listing.

Baked Chicken Dinner. 3:30-6:30 p.m. Dinner for adults includes half a chicken, roasted potatoes, dessert, and more. Kids’ meals will include chicken tenders, macaroni and cheese, dessert, and more. St. Daniel School gym, 3004 Court St., Syracuse. $10/adults; $6/age 12 and under. 454-4946.

Battle of the Bands. 7 p.m. In the 14th annual competition, high school

bands vie for the title of best band (and a cash prize of $200 and recording time at a local studio). Jewish Community Center of Syracuse, 5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt. $9/admission. 445-2360.

Happy Holidays from Dr. Mettleman & everyone at

Mystical Acres 2709 Brennan Road, Pompey (315) 559-1319 ok Find Mystical Acres on facebo

Sunday, Jan. 17 See Ongoing Events ©2015 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Monday, Jan. 18 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY See Ongoing Events

Tuesday, Jan. 19 Legos Family Fun Night. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Make a cool creation with Legos. NOPL at North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse.

Free. Registration required: 458-6184.

Wednesday, Jan. 20 Homeschool Book Club. 1-2:30 p.m. Tweens and teens will read Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird and younger kids will read Abby Hanlon’s Dory Fantasmagory. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free.

Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

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19

Party Planner

Snow Leopard Days, Jan. 2-Feb. 29 Wagging Wednesdays. 3:30-5 p.m. Go Team Therapy Dogs visit the

library, where people of all ages can read to or hang out with them. NOPL at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. 699-2032.

Discovery Club. 4-5 p.m. Fun facts, science videos and experiments for

budding scientists, ages 7-12. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Thursday, Jan. 21 Terrific Thursdays. 11 a.m.-noon. In this session of the series for home-

schooling families, kids in grades K-12 will explore the theme “Toothpick World,” working with Stan Munro to learn how to build something awesome out of toothpicks. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required (including names and ages of all children attending): 446-3578.

Say Yes to Fruits and Veggies. 2-3 p.m. The registered dietitian from Food Bank of Central New York will talk about new ways to eat and cook fruits and vegetables. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

Free. 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing. Until 9 p.m.; through Jan. 24.

Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon. Hot chocolate and other refreshments available at the visitor center. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $3/ snowshoe rental; $4/vehicle. 638-2519.

Friday, Jan. 22 Guided Moonlight Snowshoeing. 7 p.m. Explore the woodlands and

frozen marshes on snowshoes with a guide; space limited. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $3/snowshoe rental; $4/vehicle.

Registration required day of hike: 638-2519.

Saturday, Jan. 23 Pirate Island Weekend. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; also Jan. 24. Dive in for a fun-filled weekend featuring land and ocean-themed activities. Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester. Admission: $14/general; free/younger than 2. (585) 263-2700. museumofplay.org.

20

Family Times January 2016

Party Planner

Alice in Wonderland. 12:30 p.m. See Jan. 9 listing.

michael davis photo

Meet Musicians of the Orchestra. 2-3 p.m. Enjoy a marimba duo’s con-

cert for parents and children, and learn about percussion instruments. NOPL at North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 458-6184.

NYS Teen Video Challenge Workshop. 3-5 p.m. Young people ages

13-18 will learn how they can create a video of 30-90 minutes that promotes libraries. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required (including names and ages of all children attending): 446-3578.

Sunday, Jan. 24 Pirate Island Weekend. Noon-5 p.m. See Jan. 23 listing.

Chilly Chili 5K Run/Walk. 1 p.m. A benefit for Cazenovia Children’s

House features a run (or walk), followed by a chance to chow down on some hearty chili. Cazenovia College Athletic Center, Liberty Street, Cazenovia. $30/registration (late registration more): www.chillychili.com. 655-KIDS.

Monday, Jan. 25 See Ongoing Events

Tuesday, Jan. 26 Tween Techtorials. 5-6 p.m. Make a stop-motion film with other tweens.

Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Wednesday, Jan. 27 Teen Baking and Trivia. 6-8 p.m. Teens can learn how to make French

toast. After eating their creations, they can stick around to challenge friends to trivia contests. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free.

Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Thursday, Jan. 28 See Ongoing Events

Friday, Jan. 29 Teen Chocolate Bingo. 2 p.m. Teens can put their pop culture knowledge to the test. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1944.

Saturday, Jan. 30 Puzzle Day for Kids. 10:30 a.m. Kids ages 6-12 can create a puzzle using

a blank puzzle background and markers or paints. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. 435-5442.

Alice in Wonderland. 12:30 p.m. See Jan. 9 listing.

Sunday, Jan. 31 Syracuse Opera Preview. 1 p.m. Douglas Kinney Frost, music director,

and selected principals give a preview performance of Puccini’s La Boheme.

Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

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Tune in Wednesday, Jan. 27, at 9:15 a.m., for columnist Maggie Simone’s preview of what’s in the next edition of Family Times!

Noah’s Ark Animal Workshops New Classes

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Visit our website for more info: kidzclubfun.com (315) 695-2211 • 219 Rt. 57, Phoenix Family Times January 2016

21

ONGOING EVENTS Weekend Walks With a Naturalist. Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. Nature discovery hike with different topics each weekend. Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville. Admission: $4/vehicle. 638-2519.

Horsedrawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. Saturdays & Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.;

through Feb. 28. Twenty-minute ride into the woods at Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Park Road (off Route 80), Fabius. $6/person; $3/age 5 & under. 6835550.

Snow Leopard Days. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., daily; Jan. 2-Feb. 29. Half-price admission at the zoo. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Admission in January & February: $4/adults; $2.50/age 62 & up; $2/ages 3-18; free/age 2 and younger. 435-8511. Ongoing attractions include Humboldt penguins.

Try Snowshoeing. Saturdays & Sundays, 12:30 p.m.; Jan. 2-Feb. 28. One-

hour clinic includes instructions and a short snowshoe hike. Offered when weather permits. Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville. $5/ person; $4 /vehicle for parking. Registration required (day of hike, starting at 8 a.m.): 638-2519.

Barnes & Noble Storytimes. Thursdays, 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. Storytimes 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, 9:30-10 a.m.) for good walkers up to age 3. Sign, Learn, Sign: (Wednesdays, 10:30-11 a.m.) for babies, with instruction in six basic signs to use before children can talk. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Cross Country Ski Lessons. Saturdays & Sundays, 9 a.m.; through Feb.

28. One-hour introductory lesson, weather permitting. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Park Road (off Route 80), Fabius. $25/lesson & equipment rental; $10/lesson only. Reservations required: 683-5550.

Calendar listings are free!

Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails. Daily, dawn to dusk.

Throughout the year, visitors can grab their walking shoes (or snowshoes) and explore 4.5 miles of well-groomed, 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 Conservancy, 3.5 miles off I-90, Exit 34, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. Free. 697-2950.

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.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Hiking trails and parking are free and open every day from dawn to dusk. Interpretive Center open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Sundays. Snowshoe rental: $5/ day. 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. 673-1350.

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Family Times January 2016

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 Jan. 8 for the February issue.

BACK PACK CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY

What’s in our Backpack Giveaway?

ACTIVITIES

Body Recognition Class

DANCE INSTRUCTIONS

TheDanceStudioCNY.com

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

Camillus & Manlius - Classes for Age 1 & Up! Fall Schedule & Classes Coming Soon!

682-7877 or thedancestudiocny@gmail.com

CHILD CARE

SERVICES

Jordan Elbridge Country Kids Childcare Center

Painting, Remodeling, Flooring,

$20 GIFT CARD To Dave & Busters TO ENTER: Send all contact information to promotions@familytimes.biz with “Dave & Busters” in the subject line.

Entry deadline is noon on 1/14/16.

Congratulations Jill E. from Jamesville, winner of a Flamingo Bowl Party in December’s giveaway!

NOW ENROLLING 3 YEAR OLDS Pre-School Program: Ages 3-5yrs & Before & After School Program: UPK-6th Jordan United Methodist Church 63 Elbridge Street, Jordan ** 689-9686**

Door & window install./plumbing & electrical bathroom, kitchen, basement Retired teacher, 35yrs exp.

Joe Ball 436-9008 (Onondaga County only)

To advertise in the Back Pack Directory

Call 472-4669 and press 2 • February issue deadline: 1/14/16

Family Times January 2016

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Over 55 Years of Providing Quality Catholic Education to the Syracuse Community

HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE - FEB. 4, 2016

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK - JAN. 31st-FEB. 6th, 2016 Where Faith & Learning Run Deep FULL DAY NURSERY THROUGH GRADE 6

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ONSITE

DAILY RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE

OPEN HOUSE - THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4th, 6:30-8:00 PM

Please plan to join us, tour our facility, see student work and meet our school community.

Learn about how a Catholic education can benefit your child and your family.

To Learn More About Holy Family School Visit Us At

www.holyfamilyschoolsyr.org

Holy Family School - 130 Chapel Dr., Syracuse, NY 13219

Call For A Tour: (315)487-8515

Congratulations, Mrs. Carol Shifflet 6th Grade Teacher & 2016 Light The Way Award Recipient

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Family Times

HONORED FOR OVER 40 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE DIOCESE OF SYRACUSE AND THE HOLY FAMILY January 2016 SCHOOL COMMUNITY. THANK YOU & GOD BLESS!