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SUMMER/FALL 2018
BACK-TO-SCHOOL & FALL FUN GUIDE
BACK-TO-SCHOOL & FALL ACTIVITY FAIR
Sund Augu ay, st 5
11am Eastvi - 6pm ew VictorMall with
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AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES
MUSIC, THEATER & DANCE, OH MY
SMOOTH TRANSITIONS
The array of options and the benefits for kids
So many classes — including expanded Eastman Community Music School
Easing the shift from summer to school
Get ready to head back to school with Roc Parent When I received my daughter’s 7th grade supply list the day after summer vacation had begun, the words “Really, for real?” darted across my mind. My mind also quickly commended the teacher for being organized and having one less “to do” on her own summer vacation list. (Big fat checkmark: supply list has been sent to parents.) But there’s just something about that supply list … it tells us we need to think about September sooner than we want, as we try to savor the eight or nine summer weeks, knowingly cramming in too much sun, sand, and smiles. Reality is, though, while I’m listening to pool splashes and still booking summer camps, I also need to be booking my kids’ afterschool programs. (Sigh, we can only procrastinate so much, my friends.) Dresden Engle Being a parent means planning Managing Editor ahead, as are the many organizations who are taking part in the Back-to-School & Fall Activity Fair at Eastview Mall on Sunday, Aug. 5. (“Really, for real?” Alas, we gotta face the music once the calendar flips to August). Roc Parent magazine and Kidsoutandabout.com have teamed up for this fun event, offering a one-stop-shop for learning about the many afterschool and weekend programs offered in our community, from the arts to STEM and everything in Salley Thornton between. Publisher Plus, Eastview is the ideal location for back-to-school shopping, so all the birds, with all the stones. We look forward to seeing you on Aug. 5 … and we’ll have air-conditioned fun, as we check off our fall “to do” lists, smiling because we know we will still have a month left of summer before school starts up again.
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CONTENTS
FALL 2018 | BACK-TO-SCHOOL
5 benefits of afterschool activities These programs help your child grow up happy and well-rounded Ballerinas at Hochstein School of Music & Dance PROVIDED PHOTOS
10 12 17 20
Goodbye summer, hello school Tips for making the back-toschool transition easier
Backpack Shopping 101 How to avoid a pain in the neck — and other long-term problems
Back-to-school checklists A list of lists to keep your preparations on track
Make lunches fun Five tricks and tips to get your kids to love healthy, wholesome lunches
22 26 28 32
37
Finding a tutor for your child How to nab one who’s trustworthy and affordable
Choosing a daycare 10 questions to ask during your search
42
Talking to kids about money Tips to teach them about saving, budgeting, and investing
44
Rockin’ the arts and video world ArtsROC fosters the quest for knowledge and creativity
Begin a musical journey at ECMS Eastman Community Music School’s $2.8 million upgrade will bring expanded creative opportunities to town
Book Nook Rock your summer reading list with some of the best books of 2018 — so far Family fun at local parks In summer or fall, these gems offer a little something for everyone
Roc Publishing LLC Roc Parent 2280 East Ave. Rochester, NY 14610 info@rocparent.com
Sara Hickman-Himes Art Director/Designer
Sharon Engle Proofreader
Leah Duncan & Micayla Greco Social Media Coordinators
Paul Olcott Business & Distribution Manager
Salley Thornton Publisher
Lindsay Warren Baker Calendar & Website Editor
Dresden Engle Managing Editor
Pana Chanthabandith Newsletter Editor
ADVERTISING Salley Thornton, Publisher salley@rocparent.com Roc Parent Magazine
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5
benefits of afterschool activities
for happy, well-rounded kids By CHRISTINA KATZ
Parents, do you ever wonder if we all may be taking the whole overscheduling taboo too seriously? For years, parents have been hearing that kids have too many activities, too much homework, too-heavy backpacks, too much screen time, too much sugar ‌ and on and on.
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Personally, I find most parents are intelligent, conscientious, and trying to find a healthy middle ground for everyone in the family. Most parents want their kids to have just the right amount of afterschool activities. The vast majority seems committed to helping kids become happy, healthy,
well-rounded citizens without pushing them into activity overload. There is much to gain by participating in afterschool activities. Kids can benefit artistically, physically, socially, mentally, and personally. I contacted several afterschool activity pros on this topic, and they shared the following benefits:
if there is one thing all afterschool activity professionals agree on, it’s the importance of making memories via meaningful connections. fit, confident kids
As Elle Woods reminds us in the film Legally Blonde, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” But motivating kids to get off the couch is not always easy for parents. Your kids are usually not looking to YOU to motivate them, to run some wind sprints or gut crunches. They need someone else to step in and motivate them to get moving. This is where afterschool activities come in, preferably with dedicated, motivating coaches and instructors leading the way. Physical activities increase coordination, inspire discipline, and provide energy outlets for restless kids. So let another trusted adult be in charge for a change, and enjoy your down time while your kids get more fit.
lights who shine
As much as we would like our kids to carry on our values and ideals, it’s really up to them to communicate to us who they are and what they believe. And while we may like to think our children are born whole and complete, the truth is kids often discover what they are made of after they become immersed in activities that stretch and challenge them. Engaging kids in activities where they feel fully immersed in the experience and are responsible for their own mastery helps kids discover what makes them tick. When it comes to finding an activity for your child, look for outlets that challenge them while providing gradual instruction and skill development.
part of something greater Afterschool activities offer kids outlets
for expressing their energy within a safe learning context. Feeling part of a group with a purpose is a beautiful thing; so make sure the space where your child spends time is safe, fun, and growthcentric. Often kids become as attached to a center, a studio, or a routine as much as they do to a group of peers. When kids go off to their activities, they should feel like they are going to one of their favorite places — to their home away from home. If this is not the case for your child, you may wish to check out other possibilities.
memorably connected If there is one thing all afterschool
activity professionals agree on, it’s the importance of making memories via meaningful connections. Engaged, smiling, busy children are typically happy children. Whether your child’s activity happens in a place rife with variety or in a more specialized space, your child is sure to grow over time, make memories, and understand herself better with regular participation in afterschool activities. Why not let your kids have the continuity of years of ongoing participation? It’s hard to advance up the activity ranks if you See AFTERSCHOOL on page 8
AFTERSCHOOL from page 7
dabble in one activity and then another. In elementary school perhaps provide your child with opportunities to try different activities. Then see if she wants to commit to an activity or two during middle school. She can always switch to different activities once she gets to high school, if she so wishes.
aptitude-rich
Some students need extra help to keep up academically, so don’t panic if your child turns out to be one of them. Your child may need extra help that addresses specific needs like standardized test preparation or responding to learning gaps. Other kids simply need help becoming more satisfied students. Tutoring can definitely increase not just aptitude but also enthusiasm. And just as parents don’t always make the best coaches, we also don’t always make the best tutors, either. Besides, kids often progress faster and more willingly when they work with mentors they don’t already know. And good news, raising academic confidence by teaching learning skills in one subject that can pay off in increased academic confidence across the board. So if your child is struggling with critical
afterschool activities for kids
arts
»» Dance »» Music lessons and performance »» Painting »» Sculpting »» Ceramics »» Arts and crafts »» Theater lessons and performance »» Creative writing
school & community »» Volunteering »» Faith groups »» Gardening »» 4-H Club »» Scouting or Camp Fire
»» Youth government »» School leadership »» Mentoring »» Tutoring »» Yearbook »» Robotics »» Science club »» Chess club »» School Band or Orchestra »» School choir »» Nature preservation »» Philanthropic groups
sports &outdoorS »» Soccer »» Swimming »» Baseball
reading, vocabulary, or math skills, why not try a local tutoring service? Your child has nothing to lose and much to gain. Kids need to feel successful today to become successful tomorrow, and activities can help them experience positive growth gradually. If you don’t channel your child’s energy, sedentary activities like playing video games and watching TV will always be a temptation.
Our students say it all. Appreciation of learning is what it’s all about for students at Rochester School for the Deaf.
Since 1876, our students have been discovering the art of communication and education in a nurturing, inclusive environment—at no cost to families. As a private school, our dynamic educational programs employ skilled professionals who educate students in a vibrant multicultural and bilingual scholastic setting which includes American Sign Language and English. H Building futures for deaf and hard of hearing students H Focusing on infant, early childhood, K-12 grades, up to age 21 H Sign language learning programs and community outreach services Get in touch today and give your student an appreciation for learning.
Gavin, 1st Grade signing “Thank You” Rochester School for the Deaf Celebrating our 140th Year!
1545 St. Paul Street | Rochester, NY 14621 585-544-1240 • www.RSDeaf.org • email info@RSDeaf.org
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»» Softball »» Basketball »» Lacrosse »» Field hockey »» Volleyball »» Football »» Cheerleading »» Tennis »» Gymnastics »» Horseback riding »» Skiing »» Cross-country »» Race preparation »» Track and field »» Skating »» Martial arts »» Hockey »» Biking »» Golf
If you want engaged, involved, and smiling kids, help them find activities they enjoy. You will be so glad you did. Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz is grateful for the opportunities she had contributing to school literary journals and newspapers. She also worked off some of her teenage angst on the soccer field, on the softball diamond, and in the school pool.
kids need to feel successful today to become successful tomorrow, and activities can help them experience positive growth gradually
Goodbye summer, Hello school! Tips for making the back-to-school transition easier By MEAGAN RUFFING
Blink. Where did summer go? Just when my kids figured out how to play upstairs by themselves for longer than 10 minutes it’s now time for them to get back on a schedule where play time has to be penciled in around hours of homework. Changing routines can be difficult. Add to that multiple children of multiple ages and you can brew up a recipe for stress. There exists no one-size-fits-all advice when it comes to transitioning your kids from summer to fall. But I have enough summers under my belt to know what works and doesn’t work, so from one mother to another, let me share what I’ve gleaned from my experiences:
Get a calendar Actually, buy a few. Buy one to put on the fridge for the whole family to see, a cute one just for you, one for each of your kid’s rooms, and one more just because. Start with the family calendar and map out the month September and be intentional about writing down every single event in that month. When your kids know the plan, everyone wins. Have fun with this and buy some cute stickers to stick on special days – this is a great way to include your kids and get them excited about going back to school. Let your kids decorate their own calendars by marking special days with crayons or markers.
Talk about the new school year
Ask your kids if they have questions about the grade they are entering. What are they most excited about? What are they scared about? Talk with them about what it was like for you when you started a new grade. 10
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Ease school jitters by role playing
Sometimes when I need my son to work through a situation where he might get overwhelmed, we walk through different scenarios, assuming roles as we discuss what could happen and focus on positive outcomes.
Make the first day of school special
If you have multiple children, take each one out individually and plan on getting at least one new outfit to get them excited about their first day. Be sure to add this shopping day to your calendar …
Plan for an earlier bedtime
Now that you’ve gotten the schedule, role playing, and shopping day nailed down, the hard part is actually getting
your children to understand that staying up late is a thing of the past and bedtimes are back in full swing. There a few simple things you can do to help with this transition. Some parents put their kids to bed 15 minutes earlier each night the week before school starts. For others, their kids catch on to this and fight tooth and nail to stay up. To avoid the fight, try this: tell your child he can stay up until the time you have decided and tell him he can read in his bedroom up until that time. Perhaps set a timer, but give him that feeling of independence, that he is the one who is in charge of when he closes his eyes (however, the reality is, your child is in his bed at the time you wanted him to be). He will eventually learn the new routine and setting the timer will be replaced with him falling asleep on his own.
Keep things simple
This means not scheduling a million things all in one day for your child. Pick one extracurricular activity and let your
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
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daughter have lots of free time before bedtime. It’s okay to have blank space on your calendar. (Maybe sign her up for soccer but save dance for next season.) A busy schedule isn’t always better. Keeping things simple and low key for your kids can be exactly what they need to start the new school year off right. Try these tips to help you and your family ease into a new schedule this fall and you will be pleasantly surprised at
how well your kids will adjust. Tweak these suggestions to fit your family’s needs and remember, keep it simple. Meagan Ruffing has already started her kids’ back-to-school routine and is soaking up every memory before her daughter starts kindergarten this fall. You can see more of Meagan’s work at www. meaganruffing.com or read about her story in her new book, I See You: Helping Moms Go from Overwhelmed to In Control.
www.rockidssmile.com ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS • (585) 427-8620
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Here’s what our clients have to say: “Dr. Miller has been wonderful and helps with any health concerns. She is kind, approchable and knowledgeable.” “Our children ALWAYS receive the best care from Dr. Penird. We feel so lucky to have her as our pediatrician.” “I love this office, the staff are always friendly and helpful.”
500 Helendale Road, Irondequoit
585-473-7028
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Backpack Shopping 101: Tips to Avoid a Pain in the Neck Heavy backpacks can cause long-term health problems when worn incorrectly Think the books and school supplies that your child is carrying in a backpack slung haphazardly across one shoulder are harmless? Think again. Heavy loads carried by more than 79 million students across the U.S. can cause low back pain that often lasts through adulthood. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 28,000 strains, sprains, dislocations, and fractures from backpacks were treated in one year’s time in hospital emergency rooms, physicians’ offices, and clinics. “A child wearing a backpack incorrectly or that is too heavy can be contributing risk factors for discomfort, fatigue, muscle soreness, and musculoskeletal pain, especially in the lower back,” said Karen Jacobs, EdD, OTR/L, CPE, clinical professor of occupational therapy at Boston University, and an expert on school ergonomics and healthy
growth and development of school-age children. The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) urges parents and caregivers to consider the following when selecting a backpack this school year: Appropriate size. Make sure the height of the backpack extends from approximately 2 inches below the shoulder blades to waist level, or slightly above the waist.
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Shoulders. Backpacks should have wellpadded shoulder straps that can be worn on both shoulders so when packed with books, the weight can be evenly balanced by the student. Hip belt. Backpacks with a hip or chest belt take some strain off sensitive neck and shoulder muscles and improve the student’s balance. Fit. Just as your child will try on clothes and shoes when back-to-school shopping, experts say it is important to try on backpacks, too. “The right fit should be your top criteria when selecting your child’s backpack,” says Jacobs. “If you order online, be sure that the seller has a return policy just in case the backpack is not quite the best fit for your child and needs to be exchanged.” The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) represents the professional interests and concerns of more than 140,000 occupational therapists, assistants, and students nationwide. For more information visit www.aota.org.
& L O O H C S IR A O F T Y BACK CTIVIT A L L FA
Sunday, August 5 11am - 6pm Eastview Mall Victor
C OM AF E L A C T EA T ERS RN IV C IT HO AB IE OL OU T S!
with
LEARN MORE AT ROCPARENT.COM Dance Music Educational Enrichment Art Outdoor Activities Special Needs Gymnastics Drama & Theater and much more!
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Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide
Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide
Checklists to help keep your back-to-school prep on track By CHRISTINA KATZ
The back-to-school bell will soon be heard above the sounds of pool splashes. So that means it’s time to stock up and go shopping. But how to get it all done with minimal stress? Here’s a list of all the crucial items you will want to check off your list before the first day of school arrives — allowing you to squeeze some more fun out of summer because it has your back-to-school “to dos” covered! Chances are you already have some of these items on hand or can utilize hand-me-downs or find items second-hand or on clearance.
Everyday Supplies ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍
Backpack Lunchbox Thermos or water bottle Hot and cold lunch containers Replaceable silverware Disposable bags or foil Combination lock Locker décor A permanent market for labeling each item
Extracurriculars ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍
Gym bag Workout clothes or uniform Cleats, sneakers, or special shoes Mouth guards, pads, other specific gear Socks Portable haircare items Deodorant A water bottle
School Clothes ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍
Underpants Undershirts, tank tops, or bras Socks Pants and jeans Tops Belts Dresses and skirts Hair accessories Jackets, scarves, hats, and gloves See CHECKLISTS on page 18
Back-To-School Troubleshooting: Low on funds for school clothes? Shop thrift shops or online sales instead.
calendar and shop early and all at once for budget-friendly gifts.
Local stores running low on supplies? Hop online and score discounts.
Don’t have your family calendar up-to-date yet? Call a quick family meeting to sort schedules out.
Haven’t sorted last year’s papers yet? Sort them into bins labeled with each child’s name and grade level. Overwhelmed by birthday party commitments during the school year? Note friends’ birthday months on your
Your child is new to the school? Send the teacher a quick e-mail and let her know a bit about what to expect from your child as a student.
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Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide CHECKLISTS from page 17
Scheduling Central ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍
A wall calendar A bulletin board for event fliers A white board for lists and reminders Fresh pens, markers, and dry-erase markers Cubbies or pockets to sort school papers A clothesline on which to display student work A central place to keep digital devices parked and charging
Communication Catch-up: ❍❍ Go to your school website and transfer calendar dates into family calendars. ❍❍ Post all schedules on the bulletin board. ❍❍ Set up carpooling schedules in advance. ❍❍ Input relevant principal, teacher, and coach e-mail addresses and phone numbers into devices. ❍❍ Input friend and nearby family email addresses and phone numbers for last-minute pickups and play-date scheduling. ❍❍ Put reminders in your calendar or phone to reflect your responsibilities. ❍❍ Coordinate drop-offs and pick-ups. 18
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Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide & Fall Fun Guide A Well-Stocked Pantry ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍
Breakfast foods Sandwich supplies Condiments Healthy chips Granola bars Low-sugar or no-sugar drinks ❍❍ Afterschool snacks ❍❍ Sweet treats
Homework Central ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍ ❍❍
Backpack Pencils and pens Pencil sharpener Calculators Staplers Scissors Tape dispenser Paper clips and alligator clips ❍❍ Plain white paper ❍❍ Lined paper pads
Christina Katz is a busy author, journalist, and writing coach who loves to get big tasks broken down and done all in one day whenever possible.
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5 tips to make lunches fun No parent wants to prepare a lunch only to have parts of it end up in the trash, so smart moms and dads are using simple strategies to take the brown-bag lunch to a new level. Here are five easy tricks for making a wholesome lunch your child will love:
Colorful contents
You can take advantage of kids’ love of colors and make lunchtime a rainbow smorgasbord. Try new fruits and veggies that pop with color, like yellow peppers, red grapes, and orange apricots. When grocery shopping, let your child choose their own items in the produce section. Kids are more likely to eat the healthy items they’ve selected themselves.
Dipping delight
Kids love to dip, and if they have a favorite dip or sauce, they will be more inclined to eat all their fruit and veggies. Try packing a favorite salad dressing or flavorful hummus for veggies like broccoli or carrots.
Sandwich fun
Sandwiches are the go-to lunch item for many parents. Try turning an ordinary sandwich into something special by experimenting with exciting shapes.
Use a large cookie cutter to cut the bread into fun shapes and add a touch of color with fresh fruits and veggies.
Creative alternatives Kids can get bored eating the same food day after day, so don’t hesitate to shake things up. Try revamping the classic PB&J with a fun twist by layering on some sliced bananas or apples as an alternative to jelly.
Presentation counts
Kids love to open their lunchbox to brightly wrapped treats. Whether you turn to creative bag designs or colored plastic wrap, this fun packaging makes unwrapping lunch like unwrapping presents. Adding stickers and special notes can make eating even more fun. When lunch is fun and wholesome, kids will love it, and you can feel good about what they are eating.
Canalside Music Together
Babies (0-7 mo) • Mixed Ages (0-5) • Rhythm Kids (4-8) Visit our website to schedule a demo!
canalsidemt.com (585) 356-8879 25 State Street, Pittsford 20
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Finding a tutor for your child … who is trustworthy and affordable By KIMBERLY BLAKER
Many students have tutors for help in various subjects. The plethora of students includes those who have declining grades, poor time-management skills, difficulty understanding his or her homework, or learning disabilities. If you are considering engaging a tutor, your first questions may be “Who?” and “How?” Here are some tips for finding a reliable tutor you can trust and whose services fit your budget.
How to find a tutor
Your child’s teacher and school administrators are good places to start. They most likely can recommend a tutor in your community or an online resource. Chances are one of your child’s friends has a tutor, so other parents may know a tutor they recommend. An online search will generate names of local tutoring companies, with some offering onsite tutoring and others offering in-home tutoring. Websites devoted to helping parents find tutors include Takelessons.com, which provides a searchable database of tutors. Just enter the subject and your zip code to find numerous tutors in your area, along with their parent ratings and fees per session. Another source is Care.com, which connects various service professionals, including tutors, with those seeking services. Experience in tutoring varies widely, so be sure to check their reviews. Online tutoring is another popular choice today. But bear in mind, this isn’t the right thing for every child. Plus, the costs for online tutoring aren’t always consistent with quality and many tutoring websites receive only fair to mediocre reviews at best.
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“A tutor should be patient, empathetic, positive, passionate, creative, and fun.” Free tutoring
If tutoring isn’t in your budget, you still have options. The first place to start is with your child’s school. Although the No Child Left Behind Act is now defunct, some schools still offer one-on-one tutoring programs for eligible students. Many schools also offer afterschool group tutoring where children stay after to work on their homework with a teacher made available to assist. Also, some teachers generously offer
afterschool tutoring for their students. If tutoring isn’t available at your child’s school, ask trusted family members, neighbors, and friends if they can help. You might be surprised to discover someone you know is very enthused to help your struggling child. Contact a local high school and college. Students majoring in certain subjects may be required to perform a number See TUTOR on page 24
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Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide TUTOR, from page 23
“You might be surprised to discover someone you know is very enthused to help your child.”
of hours tutoring. For that reason, college students may offer to tutor for free. Another option, the popular Khan Academy website, offers free online video tutorials for students of all levels at khanacademy.org.
What to look for
There are several factors to consider when looking for a tutor for your child. Is the tutor qualified? Your best bet is to look for someone with a teaching degree, since tutoring requires skills not everyone possesses. For younger students, as long as the tutor has a teaching degree, specialization in the particular subject in which your child is struggling isn’t necessary. From high school and beyond, though, you should look for a tutor with expertise in the particular subjects in which your child needs help. Does the tutor have the right personality? First, a tutor should be patient, empathetic, positive, passionate, creative, and fun. These are important characteristics to ensure your child can
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learn from the tutor and walk away with self-confidence. Also, the tutor’s personality should be a good fit for your child. You want a tutor who can connect with your child and vice versa. Is the tutor flexible? Each child has his or her own learning style, whether it’s visual, aural, physical, verbal, logical, or a combination. In addition, some kids are solitary learners, whereas others are social learners who enjoy learning in groups. Look for a setting and tutor that fits your child’s style. Does the tutor have excellent references? When using an online tutoring service, you’ll often find reviews from previous
clients. Look for those with overall high ratings and positive comments — and still be sure to ask for references. Also, be aware the references a tutor provides might not be an entirely accurate depiction of their character and experience. So use due diligence for your child’s safety and to ensure you’re paying for quality service. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer and the author of a kids’ STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery?, which features fun experiments to help kids understand the scientific method and develop critical thinking skills.
Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide
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Choosing a daycare: 10 questions to ask Whether you’ll be returning to work after your baby is born or looking for a new child care opportunity, you probably know that open daycare spots can go fast. Still, it pays to get picky. To narrow your selection, Kris Murray, author of The Ultimate Childcare Marketing Guide and a consultant to the childcare industry, has 10 questions she suggests asking daycare providers, to help you know if you’ve found the right place.
they are. Babies and toddlers 12 months and younger need an adult-to-child ratio of at least 1 to 4 (one adult per four infants). For toddlers 12 to 28 months, the ratio should be 1 to 3, or one instructor per three children.
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What’s your policy about unannounced visits? The best answer is, “No problem. We have an open-door policy.” Impromptu parent visits should always be welcome, Murray said.
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What activities will my child do? The code word to listen for is “curriculum.” With emerging research about early brain development, top childcare programs aren’t glorified babysitters. They’re full-featured learning environments, even at the infant level, because learning starts from birth. What’s the teacher to child ratio? It’s important for your child to get plenty of attention, especially the younger
How will I know what my child did all day? Some daycare centers will distribute a daily activity sheet detailing what each child experienced that day, such as what she had for snack and how often her diaper was changed. Even better is paperless communication. Many daycare centers offer email or texting messages two to four times daily. What are the qualifications of your caregivers? “Ask for a list of the teachers which includes the number of
Fall lessons & classes begin September 10th. Register online, in person, or by phone! Introducing SHORTS: fun art classes for kids, adults and families that only meet once or twice at MAG!
FOR FAMILIES AND KIDS: Try Start with Art for an adult and a little one. It’s Fabulous for kids (ages 6 to 10) to take alone, and our Tour & Activity for any size group of kids. We also offer Kids Create Date every Saturday from 12 to 2. FOR ADULTS: Try stained glass, drawing (drop & draw!), and jewelry making! Or our always fun Art Social program every Thursday night!
Contact the Creative Workshop for more information and registration details.
Music matters. Making music matters more.
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500 University Ave., Rochester 14607 | 585.276.8959 MAG.ROCHESTER.EDU/CREATIVEWORKSHOP
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Are drop-off and pick-up hours flexible? If you work from home sometimes or need a half-day help here and there, look for a daycare option that works with your nontraditional schedule. Daycare that’s less than fulltime is a growing trend.
What’s the security situation like? Most childcare programs are safer than they were five years ago. When touring a daycare center, ask whether the children are monitored by a secure webcam. Is the feed distributed to the director’s office so there’s oversight of what’s happening in the classroom? Can you have access to the feed as well?
How often do the kids get to go outside? Beyond extremely hot or cold weather, “there’s no excuse for children not to get outside every day,” Murray says.
What’s your disaster recovery and emergency policy? If there’s a fire or disaster at the school, you want to know that teachers have been properly trained to respond quickly and effectively to get every child out. Every teacher should be trained in CPR, too.
Ask yourself: Am I comfortable with the environment? After you’ve narrowed it down to your top picks, spend an hour or two observing a classroom when the kids are awake. What’s the vibe? If you get a good feeling about the place, chances are your child will like it too because they will pick up on your satisfaction.
ws of Mendon St o d ab ea
les
years of experience they’ve had in the field, their degree (in early childhood education for the lead teacher) or the training they’ve had,” Murray said. Lead teachers should have five to seven years of experience.
M
Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide
Summer Horse Lesson Program for Youth August 6 - August 24 Monday - Friday Day Riding Program $340 per week
Fall Horseback Lesson Program for Youth and Family Programs September 27 - November 15 8 weeks $400 per person
Horse Lease Program for Youth and Families
September 27, 2018 - June 21, 2019 $325 - $575 per month
Columbus and Veteran’s Day Riding Programs 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. $65 per rider
Girl Scout Horseback Riding Programs Thursdays and Saturdays $39.50 per rider Guided Educational Programs Experience a sense of belonging and a safe environment to learn and grow. We offer IEP and learning disabilities expertise. Most families secure district funding or financial aid. Enrollment: 115, Co-ed Grades: 5-12 Avg. Class Size: 8 normanhoward.org 585-334-8010 275 Pinnacle Rd. Rochester, NY 14623
Register meadowsofmendonstables@twc.com Pay via Pay-Pal • Contact Ms. Amy 585-582-1437
www.meadowsofmendonstables.com Roc Parent Magazine
Fall 2018
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Talking to kids about money By STACY ALLRED Director, Wealth Structuring Group at Bank of America Merrill Lynch
When a child begins to edge into adulthood, how do you make sure they have the knowledge and skills to make smart financial decisions? It’s critical to recognize that becoming financially independent is a journey—one that may take longer in today’s uncertain economy. “Achieving financial autonomy is a transition rather than an abrupt change,” notes Eileen Gallo, co-author of Silver Spoon Kids: How Successful Parents Raise Responsible Children. Fortunately, there are ways that allow parents to ease the journey to financial autonomy.
Discover All The RMSC Has To Offer!
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Share information Affluent parents are often so concerned about their children feeling entitled that they keep them in the dark about the family’s assets. But children often learn a family’s values best by observing those principles in action. Entitlement is a natural state we all go through in youth. To emerge into stewardship, you need to learn about money and accountability. It can be helpful to ease into sharing elements of financial strategy. Rather than revealing your entire investment portfolio, perhaps start by reviewing a college savings account once each quarter. Explain the importance of budgeting and saving Helping a teenager create a
Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide monthly budget is a great way to instill financial discipline. Sit down and discuss the basics of money management, or if there’s resistance to your involvement, bring in your Financial Advisor. They can help kids create a budget, learn basic skills and discuss planning their financial future. Parents can foster solid financial habits in their children by asking them what they are saving for right now and what that goal is going to cost, in effect giving them a chance to develop their own relationship with money and their own intrinsic motivations.
Use philanthropy as a teaching tool You can learn important life skills—doing research, decision making and accountability— through philanthropy. Also, it’s a great way for siblings to learn how to make joint financial decisions. For example, children can be allotted a giving budget and charged with jointly evaluating charities and deciding which ones to support. Naming grown children as co-advisors to a donor-advised fund (DAF) can get them started early on deciding the most effective ways to give to others, as they would be tasked with making
JOIN THE FUN! Junior Tennis Program Ages 4-18 All Levels
recommendations to the DAF on how to spend its assets.
Introduce investing Investing smaller sums with limited consequences is a great way to learn about making informed choices and managing risk. One option is to open custodial accounts with starter funds and let your child work with your Financial Advisor
to create a small portfolio and evaluate its performance. Explain that it’s not about never making a mistake; it’s about learning from those you make.
Let them falter Whether it’s a bad investment or a splurge that busts the See MONEY on page 30
- - -
Performing Arts Program Adams Family: Young @ Part Grades: entering grade 6-12 Performs: October 26-27
G2K Cinderella Grades: entering grade K-6 Performs: December 7 & 8
Moana, an original play Featuring music from Disney’s Moana Grades: entering grade K-6 Performs: May 17 & 18, 2019
Five Point: 2018-2019 Season (September - June)
9 Indoor Clay Tennis Courts No Membership Required tcr1886.com Located in Bushnell’s Basin
Performances: • Rochester: January 11, 2019 • Walt Disney World: January 18-22, 2019 • Festivals and local performances throughout the year Please check website for audition details including dates, times, and requirements.
www.TerryFykeMSP.com
For more information: Call Terry at 585-455-5050 Register online: terryfykemsp.com/register.html
Roc Parent Magazine
Fall 2018
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MONEY from page 29
monthly budget, a misstep is bound to happen occasionally. When one occurs, resist the urge to swoop in and rescue your child financially. If you take away the consequences, you do your child a disservice. Instead, talk it through and work out a way to solve the problem together, whether that means cutting back on spending or getting a part-time job.
Offer selective support There are some expenses it may make sense to fund, such as medical insurance, continuing education, or therapy. Making sure your child has health insurance or the guidance she needs is not an indulgence. Be clear about what you will fund and what the expectations are when you do fund expenses. Families with greater assets that want to set up trusts for kids can tie trust distributions to certain benchmarks.
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One idea Gallo suggests is to create a “results-oriented trust,� which identifies specific results for a beneficiary to achieve while offering some degree of flexibility. Alternatively, a trust could simply state that the children will receive their money whenever the trustee is confident that they are mature enough to handle it. A Financial Advisor can help you obtain more information about the various trusts you can use. Every family will have its own idea about what assets to give the next generation and when. But the most valuable things to give your children may be the knowledge and skills they need to spend, save, invest and share their income responsibly. Beyond allowing them to become financially independent, such skills will also put them in a better position both to help others and to make sure they in turn leave something for the generations after them.
Back-to-School & Fall Fun Guide ADVERTORIAL
Fall family fun at Stokoe Farms “The best traditions begin here”
If you ask families for recommendations as to where to pick your own pumpkin or cut down your own Christmas tree, most times the answer will be Stokoe Farms. But there’s so much more going on at the Scottsville farm, amidst the fall fun and holiday magic. The 206-year-old farm is owned and managed by the sixth and seventh generations of the Stokoe family (pronounced STOW-key). The eighth generation has begun earning his keep but doing some chores, but the family tells us that at just four years old, he’s not on the payroll yet (insert smiling-face pumpkin emoji here). Stokoe Farms minces no words in claiming it is THE place for family fun in the fall. The farm offers more than 35 activities, plus hayrides and live animals — and not just farm animals, but also camels and Baby wallaby named Bunji. Guest-favorite activities include the bee lines, two bounce pillows, giant slides, the straw fort, Farmer 500 pedal karts, the Tall Pines nature trail, sports challenge, corn box, cargo climbs, apple cannons and mini pumpkin launchers, and hayrides. “Our tagline has always been ‘The Best
Traditions Begin Here,’” said Suzanne Stokoe. “As a family it is our dedication to honor the gifts we have been given and share that with the community. Farming is truly a way of life and we work hard to create a welcoming, fun, and educational atmosphere that is reminiscent of a step back in time.” During the month of October, the farm welcomes “The Marvelous Mutts Canine Spectacular,” with three shows daily on the weekends. The shows last year wowed
audiences. (But please note, due to Stokoe being a working farm, guest pets and dogs are not allowed during the fall.) Each weekend from mid September through the end of October has a special theme. The 2018 Harvest Fest spans Sept. 15 to Oct. 28, and the themes are as follows: Weekend 1: Military Appreciation/First Responder Appreciation Weekend 2: Autism Appreciation and Classic Car Show Weekend 3: Princess and Super Hero Weekend Weekend 4: Columbus Day Weekend and Grandparent Day Weekend 5: Hump Day Weekend and “Happy Birthday to Dune the Camel” Weekend 6: Goats Galore Weekend 7: Trick-or-Treat on the farm and Pumpkin Bonanza The focus is on families with children ages two to teen. “However, we have guests of all ages,” said Stokoe. “Anyone who wants a pumpkin, or enjoys an afternoon in the great outdoors will enjoy the farm. From activities and hayrides to fames, animals, and even a dog show, we promise you won’t be bored at Stokoe Farms.”
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’ n i & s k t c r a d o l R he woir d r o f s t t t o roc in p s e t r a d i at v
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By DRESDEN ENGLE
From first-hand mom experience I have learned ArtsROC is the summer and afterschool program your kid WANTS to attend. The reason being, the activities offered are the ones kids love to do at home — my daughter included — yet in a social setting with fun instructors and lots of room for creative expression. ArtsROC is a multi-faceted enrichment academy offering programs in music, foreign language, painting & drawing, anime, LEGO education, Minecraft, computer technology, computer animation, graphic design, film & video production, and STEM. “Today, kids are under a lot of pressure to be successful, leaving little time for self-exploration,” said founder and director Lori Bajorek. “Kids are not allowed to be kids anymore!” Eight years ago in the town of Pittsford, idealistic mom Lori
Exploring ArtsROC How: Learn more and register online at info@artsroc.net or visit artsroc.net or call (585) 218-9125. Where: 3462 Monroe Ave., Pittsford (near Pittsford Plaza) When: Summer programs are ongoing with room for new students, and afterschool registration for the 2018-2019 school year is now open. Every Friday ArtsROC offers a Game Nite with pizza party.
“Here we foster children’s innate quest for knowledge and support their happiness and their health by creating a nurturing environment that allows them to explore their passions.” LORI BAJOREK ArtsROC founder and director
Bajorek was finding herself more and more dissatisfied with the local programs available to her five-year-old son. She said the programs did not adequately promote the arts, and had virtually no bridge to technology, See ARTSROC on page 34
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LEARN TO
SKATE
SUMMER CLINIC 1 JULY 9TH – 13th (Mon.–Fri.) 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 4th
— and ArtsROC’s most recent development is the all new nor was there a clear plan for “Internal Minecraft Server,” technological infusion. which allows for up to 36 “This was simply not acceptable, players at a time. so I started my own organization “ArtsROC works to restore and created a new type of the balance of a successful program,” Bajorek said, noting childhood,” Bajorek said. her drive was based on the needs “Here we foster children’s and wants of her own son. innate quest for knowledge When not making their own and support their happiness TV productions or stop-motion and their health by creating a LEGO videos, ArtsROC’s nurturing environment that students may be enjoying allows them to explore their outdoor sports plus video passions without judgment or gaming, primarily Minecraft limitation.” ARTSROC from page 33
SUMMER CLINIC 2 JULY 16TH – 20th (Mon.–Fri.) 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 11th
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-We are accepting new patients AHP Provider PCMH Certified Drs. Lisa Colton, Elizabeth Machiele, David Sulla Carla Romeis, PNP, Patricia Huselton, FNP 585-381-4830
Drs. Laura Kopp, Laura Jean Shipley Drs. RobertTuite, Margaret Callahan Danielle Stratton, PNP, Eleanor Weinstein, PNP 585-381-4836
Register Today at www.rit.edu/skate
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Drs. Eric lngerowski,Jane Pardee, KimberlyVogelsang Ann Marie Kidd, PNP, Michelle Bernardi, PNP 585-381-4832
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Thumbs Up Dental Care Howard Silver, DDS
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The name is synonymous with music education, and the school is getting a $2.8 million upgrade BY JESSICA KAUFMAN
Growing up in Rochester, I always recognized Eastman School of Music as synonymous with musical excellence — whether at the hands of the creamof-the-crop students (soon-to-be first chairs of the Boston Symphony or future members of the MET) or the world-class artists who include Kodak Hall at the Eastman Theatre as a stop on their national tours. Equally impactful in Rochester, and perhaps even more directly, is the Eastman Community Music School (ECMS), founded in 1921 by George Eastman himself, ECMS was created to serve the community’s musical needs and educational desires. ECMS provides educational opportunities for infants through seniors, as well as hundreds of performances each year. See EASTMAN on page 38
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EASTMAN from page 37
Currently undergoing a pivotal transformation via a $2.8 million renovation, Eastman’s Messinger Hall is experiencing acoustical and aesthetic upgrades and the creation of new spaces, including more classrooms, a keyboard lab, 24 teaching studios, percussion studios, and designated family waiting lounges. This renovation, to be completed this fall, will raise the quality of ECMS’s facilities to that of its teaching and performances. It also will simultaneously secure Eastman as a downtown destination and key source for all forms of musical education and entertainment. “The school was designed as enrichment for the community,” said ECMS Associate Dean Petar Kodzas. The scores of parents who have been sending their children through the various programs agree. “ECMS staff and faculty are wonderful,” said parent Steven Lau. “They make sure the kids truly understand the material and feel prepared.” His daughter Isabella has studied at ECMS for six years and graduated with an Honors’ diploma from the program in June. She will continue her music education as an incoming freshman studying trombone at Eastman School of Music this fall. “All the teachers were open to any and all questions and cared about her, as an individual and as a student,” Lau said. As a parent, I personally loved watching my five-year-old participate in early childhood music classes called “Music Makers.” It’s both adorable and invigorating to watch your child light up when he masters a new song and can perform it himself, not to mention the awe-inducing moment at the end of each lesson when he got to “take a bow.” A trained classical singer myself, taking voice lessons through ECMS has taken my voice and skills to new heights, thanks to a top-notch teacher whose students are currently on Broadway and in various opera companies. With lessons offered during the day or evening, seven days a week, open to students of all ages and levels, and supported by generous scholarship funds, ECMS is truly Rochester’s premier community music school. “Eastman Community Music School nurtures creativity but also nurtures a feeling of empowerment, which is very important no matter the field — science, math, music, and so on,” said parent Donald Carpenter, whose daughter 38
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Founded in 1921 by George Eastman himself, Eastman Community Music School was created to serve the community’s musical needs and educational desires. From pre-school and early childhood programs to college prep and diploma programs to adult ensembles and classes, ECMS nurtures and inspires music students at all levels. PROVIDED PHOTOS
Learn about more afterschool and weekend arts programs, PAGE 40
Abby is a dual diploma student at ECMS. “It’s a great opportunity to introduce the kids to world-class education that exists right in our own community.” Ever evolving, ECMS has two new programs launching this fall. The first, “Rock Band” is designed for students in grades 7 to 12. In this program, one section will focus on rock music from the 1960s through the present, while a second section focused on teaching classically trained young musicians about improvisation in rock and blues styles as well as playing by ear. ECMS is also launching “Bridges” this fall, introducing children in kindergarten and first grade to the joy of making music. Bridges are sampler classes designed to allow young kids to try out a different instrument during each nine-week session
to find the right fit. Options include guitar/ ukulele, harp, singing, piano, percussion, and strings. Instruments are provided by ECMS. Perhaps you’re not sure about your kiddo learning an instrument such as piano at a young age? Well, as my little guy said when I told him I had signed him up, “So mommy, I get to play real songs instead of just the ones I make up? Cool!” At Eastman Community Music School imagination and teaching combine to create a special musical journey. Fall classes start in September. Learn more at esm. rochester.edu/community/ Jessica Kaufman is a mom and the assistant director of content and public relations for Eastman School of Music.
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MONITOR– count your medication regularly
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DISPOSE– off any and Child caredrop built forunwanted/unused life. expired medication to your local disposal site No two children are the same. And at RCN, no two educations are either. Our specially Medication Drop Box Locations: trained teachers tailor their approach to each child’s social, emotional, physical, cognitive Bristol: Farmington: and linguistic exceptional Town Hall skill levels. At RCN we develop State Troopers students who become exceptional people. Canandaigua: Clifton Springs: FLCC (Keuka Wing)
The Medicine WHY RCN? Shoppe Ontario County DMV Office
Hospital (Lobby)
Geneva: Flexible hours from(lobby) 6:30 am to 5:30 pm North St. Pharmacy Thompson Hospital Mental Health Clinic Police Station ChildStation care for(lobby) infants through 12 years of age Police Phelps: Richmond: Before & after school, school break, and summer programs Community Center Town Hall
Attention to special needs
Rushville: Village Hall
Shortsville/Manchester:
Red Jacket Pharmacy Park-like setting with age-appropriate playgrounds
Victor: Universal Pre-K (UPK) / Extended Pre-K (EPK) Mead Square Pharmacy
Questions, please callTraining us at 585-396-4554. Family Child Care
ENJOY A HEALTHY, CLEAN HOME ALL YEAR ROUND. You deserve some good, clean fun this summer. Let us handle the clean part. With our 22-step cleaning process, your team of professionally trained specialists will provide a thorough, deep clean you’ll love coming home to.
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Child care built for life. No two children are the same. And at RCN, no two educations are either. Our specially trained teachers tailor their approach to each child’s social, emotional, physical, cognitive and linguistic skill levels. At RCN we develop exceptional students who become exceptional people.
WHY RCN?
Flexible hours from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm
Child care for infants through 12 years of age
Before & after school, school break, and summer programs
Attention to special needs
Park-like setting with age-appropriate playgrounds
Universal Pre-K (UPK) / Extended Pre-K (EPK)
Family Child Care Training
941 South Avenue, Rochester | 25 E. Main St., Suite 110, Rochester | RCN4Kids.org | 585-473-2858
Roc Parent Magazine
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Afterschool performing arts programs for music, theater, and dance Performing Arts HOCHSTEIN SCHOOL OF MUSIC & DANCE 50 Plymouth Ave., Rochester (585) 454-4596 | hochstein.org
Instruction in music for ages 3 and up. Individual lessons in songwriting, voice, and composition, plus Suzuki and earlystart guitar. Dance classes include ballet, hip hop, modern, Spanish, tap, and jazz.
BACH TO ROCK 2160 Penfield Road, Penfield (585) 364-3766 penfield.b2rmusic.com
Individual and group music lessons, classes including guitar, voice, DJ, glee club, drum, and early childhood programs.
ABOVE: Students work at the barre at Ballet Prestige. LEFT: Budding artists explore the color wheel at Cobblestone Arts. PROVIDED PHOTOS
A MAGICAL JOURNEY THROUGH STAGES 875 E. Main St, Rochester (585) 935-7173 | mjtstages.com
Youth theater programs for grades 1 to 12. Upcoming productions: • 8th to 12th grade: Little Shop of Horrors, Beauty and the Beast, Newsies • 6th to 9th grade: Little Mermaid, Annie, The Matchmaker, Peter Pan
BEST FOOT FORWARD 100 Cobblestone Court, Victor (585) 402-8186 or (585) 749-5366 bestfootforwardkids.com
Classes in theater, music (voice, piano, guitar, and percussion), and dance (ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, creative movement).
DRAMA KIDS (585) 586-3830 dramakids.com/rochester-ny
Drama Kids community classes are afterschool enrichment programs offered at Rochester area schools and other locations. The imaginative drama curriculum encourages participation from all students.
CANALSIDE MUSIC TOGETHER 25 State Street, Pittsford (585) 356-8879 | canalsidemt.com Music programs for children ages birth to 8, featuring “Rhythm Kids” classes with parents and caregivers, exploring the world of rhythm through movement, drumming, improvisation, and song.
KANACK SCHOOL 2077 South Clinton Ave., Rochester (585) 244-6910 kanackschoolofmusic.com/classes Music programs include group and
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ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip hop, modern, African, musical theater.
BALLET PRESTIGE 1855 Monroe Ave., Rochester (585) 704-1903 balletprestigerochester.com private lessons in Suzuki, violin, viola, cello, piano, guitar, bass guitar, flute, and voice.
Dance instruction for ages four to 13 in ballet, pointe, contemporary, and stretch & strength, plus adult ballet.
COBBLESTONE ARTS 1622 State Route 332, Farmington (585) 398-0220 cobblestoneartscenter.com/ artsafterschool
DRAPER DANCE 1326 University Ave., Rochester (585) 461-2100 | drapercenter.com
TERRY FYKE’S MAIN STREET PLAYERS 275 Pinnacle Road, Rochester (585) 455-5050 | terryfykemsp.com
RUCKUS DANCE 445 W. Commercial St., East Rochester (585) 545-1927 | ruckusdance.com
Classes in music, art, dance, Spanish/ foreign language, and theater (full-scale production including rehearsals, staging, costuming, and tech training).
Classes in acting, voice, and dance, with the goal of building confidence, self-esteem, and awareness for the performing arts
Dance
DANCE CONNECTIONS 1038 Winton Rd North, Rochester (585) 654-7654 danceconnectionrochester.com
Dance classes for ages 18 months to adult, including pre-ballet, acrobatics,
Dance instruction begins at age 2. Classes include creative movement, pre-ballet, dance basics, ballet, pointe, modern, tap, jazz, stretch & strength, movement for actors, dance for musical stage, and a music theater program.
Dance instruction for ages 2 to adult, including creative movement, hip hop, tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, with competitive opporunities as well.
RINCE NA SAOR 1742 Long Pond Road, Rochester (585) 227-6614 | rincenasaor.com Rince Na Saor (pronounced “rinka na sayer”) offers children and adults the opportunity to learn traditional Irish dance in an environment focused exclusively on recreational students.
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Fall 2018
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AGES 8 TO 12 Aru Shah and the End of Time By Roshani Chokshi
Rock Your Summer Reading Join the kids, teens, and parents across the state who are participating in this year’s summer reading theme: Libraries Rock! Need some book suggestions? Below find a selection of new releases that rocked the first half of 2018. For more titles and information about library events, visit libraryweb.org. Rock on! By DEENA VIVIANI
AGES 4 TO 8 A Chip Off the Old Block
Written by Jody Jensen Shaffer Illustrated by Daniel Miyares Rocky is a small rock with big dreams. He wants to be something important like his giant relatives: Aunt Etna, Uncle Gibraltar, and more. Adventure ensues as Rocky travels across the United States, pieces chipping off along the way, until he arrives at Mount Rushmore and learns that no matter how big or small one is, everyone is important. Rocky is illustrated adorably, and the rock puns throughout the story add to the clever tale. Information about the mentioned monuments and three primary types of rocks is available in the back. Perfect for the budding geologist in your home. (Nancy Paulsen Books, 2018, hardcover, $17.99) 42
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Twelve-year-old Aru Shah lies a lot in order to fit in at her fancy school. Who can blame her when she lives above the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture with a bunch of old artifacts and a mother who is always away on business? When three of her classmates threaten to expose her as a liar, she unwittingly releases a demon from the cursed Lamp of Bharata and is tasked with stopping the Sleeper before he destroys the world. With loads of narrative humor, pop culture jokes that offset the historical references, and fun quips from Aru and her soul sister Mini, this story is highly entertaining. The Indian mythology is comprehensive, the author’s knowledge is broad, and a sequel is in the works. At times there is a lot of mythological information to keep track of, but the glossary offers helpful refreshers. Rick Riordan’s new publishing imprint promises books that explore worldwide mythologies, so stay tuned for more in this vein. His fans will definitely flock to Aru Shah’s tale. (Rick Riordan Presents, 2018, hardcover, $16.99)
AGES 12 TO 18 Speak: The Graphic Novel
Written by Laurie Halse Anderson Illustrated by Emily Carroll The summer before ninth grade, Miranda went to a party with her best friend and something terrible happened. Hurt and afraid, she called 911, but instead of getting help, she became an outcast for breaking up the party. Now, lonely and alone at both school and home, Miranda tries to come to terms with what happened and its fallout, using art as an attempted escape. This graphic novel adaptation of the 1999 novel has updated references and is just as relevant in its message then as now. The story acknowledges the bravery it takes to speak up, the consequences that can come from doing so, and the pain that can come from remaining silent. The art is emotive, clear, and enhances the story. A worthy remake of an award-winning novel. P.S. Laurie Halse Anderson will be visiting Rochester October 15-19 for the Ninth Annual Greater Rochester Teen Read! Stay tuned to your local library for details. (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2018, hardcover, $19.99)
MIDDLE GRADE AGES 8 TO 12
AGES 8 TO 12 The Night Diary
AGES 3 TO 5 Neither
By Arlie Anderson (Little, Brown, 2018, hardcover, $16.99)
By Veera Hiranandani (Dial, 2018, hardcover, $16.99)
AGES 8 TO 12 A Pup Called Trouble
AGES 3 TO 5
By Bobbie Pyron (Katherine Tegen Books, 2018, hardcover, $16.99)
A Busy Creature’s Day Eating
AGES 8 TO 12
By Mo Willems (Hyperion, 2018, hardcover, $17.99)
AGES 5 TO 8 Harriet Gets Carried Away
20
PICTURE BOOKS
G
9th ANNUAL the
18
By Kate Messner (Bloomsbury, 2018, hardcover, $17.99)
PReSE NT iN
Breakout
October
1 15-
9,
D
Wings of Fire: The Graphic Novel
Written by Tui T. Sutherland Illustrated by Mike Holmes (Graphix, 2018, paperback, $12.99)
By Jessie Sima (Simon & Schuster, 2018, hardcover, $17.99)
AGES 5 TO 8 Mary Had a Little Lab Written by Sue Fliess Illustrated by Petros Bouloubasis (Albert Whitman, 2018, hardcover, $16.99)
YOUNG ADULT AGES 12 TO 18 The Apocalypse of Elena Mendoza By Shaun David Hutchinson (Simon Pulse, 2018, hardcover, $17.99)
AGES 12 TO 18 Love, Hate & Other Filters
EASY READERS AGES 4 TO 6 Pizza Pig
Written by Diana Murray & Illustrated by Maria Karipidou (Random House, 2018, paperback, $4.99)
By Samira Ahmed (Soho Teen, 2018, hardcover, $18.99)
AGES 12 TO 18 The Poet X By Elizabeth Acevedo (HarperTeen, 2018, hardcover, $17.99) Roc Parent Magazine
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5 parks your family will enjoy … In summer sunshine or for fall fun Upstate New York has some of the most beautiful parks in the nation. Monroe County has 21 parks on nearly 12,000 acres for all of us to enjoy. Here are some Rochester area parks you will be sure to love. Fun for free is what many of our Greater Rochester Area parks offer! Many of these parks have shelters, water access, groomed walking paths and playgrounds. A day at the park is a wonderful opportunity to explore the great outdoors. Remember to be responsible caretakers when enjoying your day at the park. To learn more about Monroe county Parks or to reserve a shelter visit monroecounty.gov/parks or call (585) 753-7275.
Durand Eastman Park
Lake Shore Blvd., Rochester Durand Eastman Park offers 977 acres and 5,000 feet of Lake Ontario waterfront. Its steep wooded slopes, valleys, scenic vistas, small lakes, spring flowering trees and spectacular fall foliage colors add to this park’s exceptional beauty.
Greece Canal Park
241 Elmgrove Road, Rochester This park is ideal for hiking, bird watching and cross-country skiing. The park also has a baseball diamond, soccer field, tennis courts, playgrounds and youth camping area. It has one of our two legal off-leash dog parks.
Black Creek Park
3835 Union Street, North Chili This 1,505-acre park has many different features to offer. It also includes a playground located near the Pathfinder Shelter and five hiking trails, all of which are good settings to view nature and animals.
Ellison Park
395 Rich’s Dugway Road, Penfield At 447 acres, Ellison Park has the beauty of natural woodlands combined with steep slopes and the level flood plain of the Irondequoit Creek. Ellison has softball diamonds and playground equipment. Fishing is also allowed.
Mendon Ponds Park
95 Douglas Road, Honeoye Falls The park has more than 2,500 acres of woodlands, ponds, wetlands, glacially created landforms and recreational areas; Sharon’s Sensory Garden, Wild Wings, Inc., a Youth Camping area, and a boat launch (non-motorized boats only).
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Here’s to packs great and small.
Here’s to packs great and small. Whip down water slides, play our MagiQuest® adventure game, feel the joy at Scooops® Kid Spa, and open your imagination at Story Time before bed. All at Canada’s premier indoor water park resort. Come see how it’s perfect for everyone in your pack.
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Roc Parent Magazine
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SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, September 15th From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm WXXI Studios • 280 State Street, Rochester Something for the kids: • Take pictures with PBS Kids characters like The Cat in the Hat, Jet Propulsion from Ready Jet Go!, Buddy the Dinosaur, & more! • Enjoy free crafts and fun hands-on activities! Something for the adults: • Meet the hosts of Classical 91.5 • See WRUR Open Tunings’ Scott Regan • Chat with the WXXI news team 46
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RocParent.com
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