Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent September 2016 by RocParent

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

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Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

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SEPT/OCT 2016

INSIDE Vol.23 Number 5

It's All About Play!

ITHACA CHILDREN'S GARDEN & THE PLAY SYMPOSIUM

this month's contributors SUE HENNINGER is a monthly contributor to Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent who enjoys writing about the unique

more features

18 Books Change Readers;

Readers Change the World –

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF THE ROCHESTER CHILDREN'S BOOK FESTIVAL

22 Getting a Good Night's Rest – TIPS FOR READING BEFORE BED & LIMITING SCREENTIME

on the cover 175 Things To Do in September & October 46 Fall Fun 46-62 Apple Picking 62 Halloween Events 56 Fall Books 32 Celebrating 20 Year of the Rochester Children's Book Festival 18 The Importance of Play 12 Tips for Reading Before Bed & Limiting Screentime 22 Great Ways Kids Can Help the Community 30

people, places, and events that can be found in the Finger Lakes region. [Page 12]

VICKI SCHULTZ is a member of Rochester Area Children's Writers & Illustrators. [Page 18]

DEENA VIVIANI is a Rochester-based Young Adult Services Librarian who writes reviews for VOYA and the RACWI Newsletter. [Page 28 & 32]

SARAH YALE is a writer and a mom who believes kids can make a big difference in our world. [Page 30]

CHRISTINA KATZ is an author, journalist, and coach, who often

writes on the topic of life balance and personal self-expression. She knows the power of saying no and is not afraid to use it. [Page 34]

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

ONLINE

september + october WHAT YOU CAN FIND AT WWW.ROCPARENT.COM

Fall is here! Our website is chock-full of awesome ideas to celebrate the season. From outdoor adventures to the ultimate fall fun, there are no boring days in sight!

PICK THE PERFECT PUMPKIN Nothing says fall quite like pumpkins! With cooler weather here, and Halloween around the corner, now is the time to take the family on a trip to the pumpkin patch! We'll have a roundup of our favorite area pumpin patches so you can pick out the perfect pumpkin!

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PARENTS' NIGHT OUT There is a lot to do in the Greater Rochester area for your kids, but how about something for you? Our new calendar category, Parents' Night Out, offers you an opportunity to see what's happening that's not exactly kid-stuff. Check out the offerings from entertaining RBTL shows, ZooBrew and so much more. Scan and search quickly and then head out for a well-deserved grown-up evening.

FAB FALL FUN Get ready to have the best autum ever! Our Ultimate Fall Fun Guide will be jam packed will festival fall activities like fall festivals, farm fun, autumn hikes, fall farm markets and much more so you can make the most of what this great season has to offer!

START THE SCHOOL YEAR RIGHT

The kids are back in school and you're past the start-of-school-year bustle. But what now? How do you stay on track and keep up the energy level? Our Education section of our website has informative and helpful articles about teacher meetings, homework help, school lunch ideas and more to help you continue to make the school year great.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

EDITOR'S NOTE

Staff

By Jillian Melnyk

PUBLISHER Barbara Melnyk mail@GVParent.com

all about play S

ome of my favorite memories from childhood are when I would head into the backyard and just let my imagination go wild – unstructured, unrestricted, uninhibited… it’s what play is all about.

WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND? Email our Publisher, Barbara: mail@GVParent.com Email our Editor, Jillian: editor@GVParent.com

With so many structured activities for kids and families to focus on these days (don’t get me wrong, they’re great and have their benefits) we can sometimes forget about the importance of good old fashioned play. Free play is more than just about imagination, it’s also about working out issues, problem solving and decision making. This is the inspiration behind the Ithaca Children’s Garden (which you can learn more about on page 12). This month while you celebrate fall – pick apples, romp in the pumpkin patch, and head out for a nature hike – remember to let your little ones have a bit of freedom and fun. You don’t have to hold their hand for every step. Let them explore, think, examine, wander, grow, and above all, play.

With love,

jillian 8

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jillian Melnyk editor@GVParent.com ONLINE EDITOR Carol Harvey ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ken Stevens CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jillian Melnyk graphics@GVParent.com CALENDAR EDITOR calendar@GVParent.com DISTRIBUTION Northstar Delivery Basic subscription rate: $25/year. Send subscription inquiries and changes to address below. Copyright 2016, by GVP, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not necessarily constitute an endorsement or necessarily reflect the opinions of this publication.

HOW TO CONTACT US:

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine P.O. Box 25750 Rochester, NY 14625 p: 585-348-9712 mail@gvparent.com www.RocParent.com

MEMBER OF BRIGHTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

BUZZWORTHY IN TOWN

CREATE YOUR OWN SWEET CREATION The Eastman Museum Council is in the midst of planning the 21st annual Sweet Creations gingerbread display and auction, on view at the George Eastman Museum from Friday, November 4, through Wednesday, December 14. To secure your place in this year’s show, please submit an entry form and the $25 entry fee as soon as possible. Space is limited and filled on a first come, first served basis. Proceeds from this annual display help to continue to preserve George Eastman’s National Historic Landmark mansion. Once your entry

form and fee is received you will receive a confirmation letter. Please note two requirements for all submissions: 1) the gingerbread creation and its support board must be no larger than 20 inches wide by 16 inches deep and 24 inches high, and 2) the creation must use royal icing (recipe below) so that it will last for the duration of the display. If you have any questions, please contact Kathy Connor at (585) 271-3361 ext. 242,Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm.

ROYAL ICING / Makes 2 cups* INGREDIENTS • 3 egg whites •½ teaspoon cream of tartar •1 lb. confectioner’s sugar DIRECTIONS Beat all ingredients at high speed 7 to 10

WATERMELON MUMMY

Spooky, silly or symbolic, carved pumpkins are an essential ingredient to any Halloween celebration. This year, scare up some special fun for your party with a wicked watermelon carving, instead! Plus, after crafting your watermelon into an artful mummy, take advantage of the healthy, immune-system supporting qualities of the lycopene leader among fresh produce. At 92 percent water, as well as an excellent source

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of vitamins A and C, watermelon is a hydrating post-art snack. Carving a creative design into a watermelon is a simple way to kick off the festivities and requires only a handful of common tools. Add a twinkling candle to make a fantastically frightful centerpiece. Or fill it with a fresh fruit salad or salsas for a more functional, practical approach.

SUPPLIES AND TOOLS • Oval or round seedless watermelon • Cutting board • Kitchen knife • Small bowl • Dry erase marker • Paring knife • Melon baller, fluted or regular • Scoop • Assorted peelers • Cheesecloth • Straight pin • Battery-operated candle or light • Candy eyeballs or blueberries DIRECTIONS • Wash watermelon under cool running water and pat dry. • On cutting board, place watermelon on its side and use kitchen knife to cut off 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch from bottom (end opposite stem), being careful not to cut too deep into white part of rind. • Cut 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch from stem end to create

minutes. Icing is ready to use when knife drawn through it leaves a clear path that holds its shape. *Do not double the recipe. If additional icing is needed, make separate batches.

opening large enough to fit small bowl. sing dry erase marker, draw •U eyes, nose and mouth, along with wavy slits around carving to let more light flow through. Use paring knife to cut out design, being sure to cut through to red fruit. se fluted or regular melon •U baller to hollow out inside of watermelon. Use scoop to remove excess watermelon. • P eel green rind off outside of watermelon. (Tip: Different peelers work well for different parts of the watermelon, depending on how flat or round the melon is.) •W rap thin strips of cheesecloth around mummy carving and secure with straight pin, if needed. • P ut battery-operated candle or light into carving. Fit small bowl into top of carving and trim away excess rind to make bowl fit securely. Fill bowl with melon balls and attach candy or blueberries to make eyes.

HELP PARENTING VILLAGE GROW It takes a village to raise a child, yet more than ever people express a sense of isolation and disconnection as parents. Parents go through challenging moments and silently wonder, “Am I the only one feeling this way?” There are meet-ups and Facebook groups that offer value to parents’ lives, but many are still yearning for something more. Parents want to know that there is a space where they can be truly honest and open. They want acceptance, connection, and to feel empowered and supported by those around them. That is why Parenting Village exists. Founded in 2013, Parenting Village is a non-profit organization creating crucial support and meaningful connection for parents in the Rochester area so they in turn can offer the best of themselves to their children. Parenting Village’s programming includes weekly professionally-facilitated support groups (Circles), a home-based peer support program (Nurture) that helps families with new babies, and their annual Summer Bash festival and community gatherings connect and support families throughout the year. So far, this programming has been almost entirely volunteer-run. Now it’s time to grow! Parenting Village has launched its first crowdfunding campaign and is seeking funding to hire staff and expand their programming. Just $5,000 will allow them to expand the types and locations of their support Circles. Their goal of $15,000 will allow them to fully launch a home-based peer support program as well. Reaching beyond the goal will help create more opportunities for connection, and reach toward a long-term goal of finding a space of their own. Are you a parent, grandparent, expecting parent, or caring community member? A participant, future participant, or friend of someone who has been touched by Parenting Village? Help Parenting Village grow! With your contribution, we can create the vibrant Parenting Village that every parent deserves! Learn more and donate at www.parentingvillage.org.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

// FEATURE STORY //

WORDS SUE HENNINGER

it's all about play! ITHACA CHILDREN’S GARDEN & THE PLAY SYMPOSIUM

he lazy days of summer have slipped away and families are back in their fall routines. Luckily, this doesn’t have to mean an end to playtime for kids!

A Special Play Place

Ithaca Children’s Garden (ICG) is a unique outdoor play space in the Finger Lakes area. Executive Director Erin Marteal explains that ICG is on the cutting edge of a rapidly-evolving movement towards child-directed free play. In free play the child is the “master,” using his own initiative to make decisions about what he’ll do and how he’ll do it. Free play provides kids with the time, the space, and a means of working out issues they’re dealing with or thinking about. Marteal emphasizes that this isn’t wasted hours. Rather, it’s a critical

“

The most challenging thing for us is to get the adults to step back and just watch, or to play a supportive, rather than a lead, role."

Cass Park proptime for kids to learn, using their erty. In “The own language. Zone” children Play allows chilare given various loose materials dren to be present and encouraged to in the here and – ERIN MARTEAL, EXECUTIVE now, instead of wordirect their own play DIRECTOR AT ITHACA CHILDREN'S GARDEN rying about the past experiences. There are or future. Like science, no goals or expectations in this space. It’s all about experiit also gives them a means of ential learning and discovery! Similar asking and answering questions they to other natural areas, one of ICG’s goals might have. is to strengthen children’s connections In 2011, ICG partnered with the US Fish and Wildlife Service to build a with nature and encourage environmental “Hands-on-Nature Anarchy Zone” in the stewardship. This particular space differs CONTINUED >>>

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ITHACA CHILDREN'S GARDEN PLAY SYMPOSIUM / IMAGE COURTESY ALLISON USAVAGE

IMAGE COURTESY ITHACA CHILDREN'S GARDEN

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;¢ September/October 2016

TEACHER TOM’S PLAY TIPS FOR PARENTS • Play with children as if you are their peer instead of taking on the leadership role. You are sure to learn a lot more that way. •M ake comments or observations instead of issuing commands. For example you could say, “Susie is crying. She looks sad,” instead of “Apologize to Susie this minute!” If you don’t know what to say, don’t say anything. • P ay attention to what’s being said, as well as what’s being done. Kids who look like they’re involved in a violent game may actually be communicating and negotiating while they engage in swordplay.

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else’s narrative is running on top from many other outdoor areas of yours,” Marteal maintains. in one significant way. “We “The most challenging call the Anarchy Zone a thing for us is to get the ‘Habitat for Children,’” There’s a adults to step back and Marteal says. Kids are major hunger for just watch, or to play encouraged to touch, information about, a supportive, rather pick, taste, and smell and networking than a lead, role,” there, so they can opportunities she adds ruefully. engage all their Adults in the senses with the world around, free play." outdoor play space around them. – ERIN MARTEAL, EXECUTIVE also seemed to be DIRECTOR AT ITHACA concerned about others What the CHILDREN'S GARDEN perceiving them as being Adults Learned “bad” parents or caretakers if Children have used the new play they don’t immediately intervene space exactly as its creators had predictwhen a child does something that isn’t ed. What they hadn’t anticipated was what socially acceptable. According to Marteal, a the adult interaction would look like in the lot of negotiation is required in the AnarAnarchy Zone. Marteal says they discovered chy Zone. This can be hard for adults to that free play seemes to be a foreign concept witness. Often they will rush in and try to for many parents. ICG staff also realized “save” a situation when it might be better that adults don't seem to have a common to let the kids practice handling the conflict language around unstructured pursuits. themselves. Though adult intentions may be Instead of allowing children to play on their good, this type of preemptive interception, own, grownups continually interfere with instead of patiently waiting to see how the the experience by telling kids what to do, child responds, isn’t always helpful. Marteal along with trying to guide and direct their says, “That’s when they [children] learn play. “It’s really hard to play when someone how to deal with situations and develop

“

IMAGE COURTESY ITHACA CHILDREN'S GARDEN

confidence in their bodies, their language, and their social skills.” She adds that it’s essential for kids to have the time to practice, experiment, and test the limits of what they can do, as well as to experience failure on occasion, if they are to become successful adults. Gradually ICG staff have become convinced that they didn’t just need an Anarchy Zone. They also needed to address the baseline of supporting a culture of children’s play with adults. “We had wanted to create a fun, messy place for kids to play that would attract a wide demographic. But then we saw that the Anarchy Zone could also become a great conversation about what kids really need when they play…That’s where the idea for a Play Symposium came from,” Marteal explains.

Play for Grownups!

The Ithaca Children’s Garden Play Symposium is a way for anyone who is passionate about children, education, the environment, and play to connect with others who feel the same. Marteal notes that the first year of the event organizers were only expecting people in the Tompkins County area to attend. They were surprised and delighted to get participants from all over the country! “There’s a major hunger for information about, and networking opportunities around, free play,” Marteal observes, noting that often free play advocates feel isolated and are eager to have an opportunity to learn from each other through various panels, play observations, and presentations. Attendees report that the Symposium empowered them to CONTINUED >>> Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

ERIN MARTEAL’S TIPS FOR HOW TO BE THE BEST ADULT PLAYMATE • Take time to learn more about what free play means by visiting the ICG website at http://www.ithacachildrensgarden. org which offers links to other play-related resources. •E ncourage your child lead the activity, including letting her pick what she wants to play and what materials she wants to use. Provide assistance or support if asked but otherwise stay on the perimeter. •D o a mental risk/benefit analysis. Ask yourself if the benefits of what the child is doing might outweigh any risk involved. • P ractice trusting your child’s ability to handle various situations on his own.

continue their work in their own communities. This year, the Symposium will be held in Ithaca on Friday, September 30th and Saturday, October 1st. The theme is “Digging Deeper” and will include Dr. Fraser Brown, author and self-described “only Professor of Playwork in the World,” and Teacher Tom (aka Tom Hobson).

One Expert’s Views

Teacher Tom is a preschool teacher (age 2-kindergarten) blogger, artist, and speaker from Seattle, Washington. He believes that children internalize valuable life skills through play, including challenging themselves, taking risks, thinking critically, questioning the status quo, and being a team player. To him, play is all about failure. “That’s how you learn,” he asserts. Play is also about getting messy. And it should be, Teacher Tom maintains. He tells his young students’ parents, “Expect your child to come home covered with water, mud, paint, snot, and blood!” Outdoor play is the wave of the future, he says, and having a “junkyard mentality,” where kids play with objects like tires, boards, and old snow chains, will work to their benefit. Please don’t think you’re an inadequate parent if your kids aren’t always occupied or participating in an organized activity, he adds. Free play teaches children how to be both self-directed and self-motivated, two qualities that will serve them well throughout their lives. The Ithaca Children’s Garden is located in Cass Park, Route 89 (Taughannock Boulevard) in Ithaca. It’s free and open all year. To register for the Play Symposium visit http://ithacachildrensgarden.org/programs/ithacas-conference-on-play. If you aren’t able to attend the Symposium, check out ICG’s annual Scarecrow Jubilee on October 15 from 1-4 pm. 

Sue Henninger is a freelance writer and a regular contributor to family magazines. Contact her at SueHenninger. com or sue@suehenninger.com

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Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

// FEATURE STORY //

WORDS VICKI SCHULTZ

books change readers; readers change the world CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF THE ROCHESTER CHILDREN'S BOOK FESTIVAL

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n what promises to be a truly special event, the Rochester Children’s Book Festival will turn 20 years old this November 12th with a celebration of how books inspire readers, especially young readers, to take action to make the world a better place.

Perhaps no book illustrates the inspiration-to-action effect better than A Long Walk to Water by local Newbery Medalist Linda Sue Park. The book tells the true story of local immigrant Salva Dut, a former “lost boy of Sudan” and founder of Water for South Sudan, who overcame incredible odds to not only survive war in his country but to return years later and provide water to his people. A Long Walk to Water achieved its “million-million” status earlier this year: one million copies sold and one million dollars raised -- by school children and families around the world who read the book -- for Salva Dut’s charity, Water for South Sudan (WFSS). To date, WFSS has drilled 282 new wells in South Sudan, bringing clean, life-saving water to hundreds of thousands of people in great need. No wonder children are so inspired by the tale of an 11-year-old boy who, when separated from his family by war, walked hundreds of miles through hostile territory, searching for scarce food and water, avoiding animal attacks and disease, and ultimately leading about 1,500 other lost boys to safety. With hope and perseverance, Salva Dut survived 10 years in refugee camps before being sent to America. Here, he attended Monroe Community College CONTINUED >>>

20TH ANNUAL ROCHESTER CHILDREN’S BOOK FESTIVAL WHEN Saturday, November 12 WHERE MCC, 1000 East Henrietta Road COST Free Admission SCHEDULE 9:30-10am: Talk by Linda Sue Park & Salva Dut* (All are welcome! Students and families who have raised funds for WFSS will be applauded.) 10am-4pm: Over 40 authors & illustrators will give presentations, read stories, and sign books. Free Crafts! *This talk will take place in the MCC gym. Salva will be at the WFSS table from 10-11am. Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

"Books change readers; readers change the world! — A celebration of the book A Long Walk to Water." All are welcome, whether this is your first introduction to the New York Times bestseller or your child has read the book as part of the NYS 7th grade curriculum. Local children and families who have raised money for WFSS will be applauded at this session. Attendees may stay afterward to meet Salva Dut and be among the first to enter the Festival when the doors to the Flynn Campus Center open at 10 am.

The Rochester Children’s Book Festival (RCBF) Gives Back

The success and impact of A Long Walk to Water has inspired the RCBF to give back by sponsoring a new well in South Sudan. On a smaller scale than the book’s million-million achievement, the Festival has set a hundred-hundred goal: one hundred new sponsors at the World-Changer level of one hundred dollars each. With the help of a $5,000 matching grant, the RCBF hopes to reach the $15,000 necessary to drill a new well. To date, the RCBF has raised over $8,000 (including over $4,000 of matching grant funds.) Donors at the $100 level will receive a copy of A Long Walk to Water, signed by Park and Dut, and a 2016 Festival poster created by local illustrator, Donna Farrell. Donations at any level truly make a difference. Please visit www. waterforsouthsudan.org to participate. Be sure to mention the RCBF in the “Donations for school & organization fundraisers” box in order to receive the above benefits.

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(MCC) and gained the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue his dream: to found WFSS and coordinate a monumental effort to drill wells for the people of his country.

Meet Linda Sue Park and Salva Dut

The Rochester Children’s Book Festival is honored to host Linda Sue Park and Salva Dut at its 9:30 am opening session,

Additionally, WFSS will host a table at the event and will raffle off two stunning pieces of artwork from the newspaper serial version of A Long Walk to Water, donated by artist Jim Averson (an author-illustrator the Festival is pleased to welcome this year). WFSS will also raffle copies of the novel, donated by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and signed by Park and Dut.

Festival Snap-Shot

More than 40 authors and illustrators, including Linda Sue Park, will give presentations, read stories, and sign books during the day-long event. Presentations run every half-hour in three different

MCC’s Walk for Water

Many African children must walk for hours each day in search of water, making it impossible for them to attend school. Join MCC’s Walk for Water, hosted by the Holocaust, Genocide, and Human Rights Project, on Saturday, October 1. This annual event, which benefits Water for South Sudan, is a walk around the perimeter of MCC’s campus beginning at 10 am, rain or shine. If you would be willing to organize an elementary, middle, or high school team, please call WFSS at 585-383-4010. Visit www. crowdrise.com/MCCWalkforWater to make a donation, register as part of the RCBF team, create your own team, or sign up as an individual walker. locations. For example, in Wegmans Presentation Place, naturalist and author Steve Swinburne will talk about his non-fiction wildlife and nature books at 12:45. At 2:15 in that same room, award-winning author and storyteller Joseph Bruchac will discuss his work, which has been inspired by his Abenaki Indian heritage. At 10:20 in WXXI Read-To-Me Corner, don’t miss a visit from Elmo and a special guest reader from our local PBS affiliate. At 1:00 in KidsOutAndAbout.com Conversation Station, Susan Beckhorn will talk about her new book, The Wolf’s Boy, a prehistoric “first dog” story. Before leaving the Festival, be sure to stop by Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine’s Busy Bookworm Place for free book-related crafts to make and take home! Visit www.rcbfest.com for the full schedule and information about the authors and illustrators who will be in attendance. Follow the festival on Facebook and Twitter for updated announcements and insider info.  Vicki Schultz is a member of Rochester Area Children's Writers & Illustrators.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

GETTING A GOOD NIGHT'S REST TIPS FOR READING BEFORE BED & LIMITING SCREENTIME

eading is good way to relax before going to bed. Churning through the pages of a paperback book could be the best thing you do for your health all day. Reading improves cognitive function and enhance your sleep. However, new research shows that reading from a smartphone, tablet, or other gadget before bed can make it harder to fall asleep and impact the quality of sleep. Sleep has its own essential benefits, so cutting it short is a bad idea.

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Dr. Heidi Connolly, director of the Pediatric Sleep Medicine Services Program at UR Medicine’s Golisano Children’s Hospital, spoke with us about how parents can teach their kids to read safely and smartly before bedtime.

What can you tell us about utilizing smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets before bed?

DR. HEIDI CONNOLLY

There are really good data that state the use of electronic devices, particularly those with light emitting screens, suppresses melatonin production and delays sleep onset. The smartphone light can disrupt your sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Most of us use these devices regularly, but we suggest curtailing usage at least an hour before bedtime.

Can being on your phone before bed disrupt how you’re sleeping and impact you the next day?

If you have to be up at a defined time in the morning, any disruption of sleep or delay in sleep onset has the potential to shorten your total sleep time. For kids, sleep deprivation is associated with learning difficulties, risk-taking behaviors, academic underperformance, and motor vehicle crashes in adolescents. These are all big things, so you want to make sure you are providing them with a positive sleep environment so they can function successfully during the day time.

Where do you recommend keeping your children’s devices overnight?

The best idea, since you cannot control all of the notifications that come via cellphone, is to have a central docking station that’s not in anyone’s bedroom, for all the electronic devices in the house. The goal is to keep kids from taking devices into bed with them so that sleep continuity won't be disrupted with ringing and notifications.

What could be some of the long-term effects of disrupted sleep?

Academic underperformance resulting from sleep deprivation and disruption is cumulative. You need what you learn in first grade to be successful in second grade. We want to be careful and make sure that kids sleep well so that they can do well in school. CONTINUED >>>

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

What are your tips on how to read successfully and safely?

The best way to read is to get a low wattage lightbulb, ideally 20 watts, and put it behind your head so that you’re not looking directly at it. Read from a good, old fashioned paper book before you go to bed at night.

Do you have any suggestions for those who are too stubborn to put their devices away?

Smartphones have a higher concentration of blue light than natural light. Blue light keeps you awake at night by disrupting melatonin production. There are new blue light filters on the market that are not particularly expensive which can help prevent the disruption of sleep onset. Obviously, it’s still best to read a book. 

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Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

autism up SUPPORT & ADVOCACY FOR FAMILIES IN THE ROCHESTER AREA

ounded in 2004 by four local mothers of children recently diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), AutismUp has grown to include more than 2,000 members. As the largest local autism support and advocacy organization in the Greater Rochester and surrounding areas, the group specializes in programming for preschool, youth, teen and young adults in the areas of supported fitness and recreation, social skills, sensory regulation, and readiness skills. In addition, AutismUp provides a full circle of support services for parents, siblings, caregivers, and professionals â&#x20AC;&#x201D; resulting in raising awareness and promoting abilities and success.

WHAT IS THE GOAL OF AUTISMUP? Its mission is to support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families by expanding and enhancing opportunities to improve quality of life. Prior to AutismUp, families walked away from a diagnosis not knowing what the future held. Today it is estimated one in 68 individuals is diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Ten years ago, when AutismUp was founded, 1 in 150 children were diagnosed with autism. Those children

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are now teenagers and will soon become young adults. The reality is that autism is here to stay. The organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to ensure all those affected by autism are receiving specialized support, customized education, vocational training opportunities, and healthy living opportunities needed to thrive from diagnosis, through adolescence and into adulthood. The organization continues to map the journey and identify routes that engage teens and young adults in peer programs, social-skills

awareness training, self-advocacy skills, vocational support, and prepare young adults with ASD for a successful future. The community must embrace individuals with autism as friends, neighbors and co-workers.

WHAT IS THE VISION FOR THE FUTURE? AutismUp provides help for today and hope for tomorrow. As the autism incidence rate climbs, even more alarming to those working to build autism support and opportunities is that our community, educational system, and society as a whole are not prepared to

embrace the children with ASD today who will become adults with ASD tomorrow. It is estimated that there are nearly 10,000 individuals with autism living in our community and to serve more of them more often, AutismUp has embarked on a bold new destiny in 2016 — opening the new AutismUp's Multi-Sensory Learning in Webster. TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE NEW SENSORY LEARNING CENTER. When I started writing My AutismUp's Multi-Sensory Learning Environment is an extension of the current operations and serves as a "base camp," to provide expanded, enhanced, engaging, and safe programs and services. Since AutismUp is run by moms of children and teens with ASD, the underlying basis is for children to have friends, fun, and happiness. This new location at 855 Publishers Parkway in Webster, located just off Route 104, is a place for supported recreation and fitness, sensory regulation, and social skills. The activities range from youth boxing and yoga to Minecraft gaming, teen fitness and social skills groups, adult clubs, and parent support groups. There’s a trampoline, a rock-climbing wall, balance beams, swings, and sensory-focused and fitness equipment … plus family events, adults groups, and parent training. HOW CAN PARENTS LEARN MORE AND GET INVOLVED? Visit online at Autismup.org where you can become a member and receive emails about their programs and events. AutismUp Education Programs are unique, customized, and highly supported. AutismUp offers programming for children and teens with ASD, their siblings, and the entire family, including support groups for caregivers and families, with professional training, education and advocacy.  Special thanks to Lisa Ponticellio for chatting with us for this article. Lisa is AutismUp's marketing and development director and a mom of a child with autism. Know a community organization worthy of the spotlight? Send an email to our editor at Editor@GVParent.com with subject line "SPOTLIGHT" and tell us why they should be featured in this column! Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

BOOK NOOK

By Deena Viviani

Get to Know Wendy Dunham

children’s therapist and middle-grade author, this mother of two and keeper of four-legged critters shares hope, encouragement, and love through her writing. Welcome to reader, gardener, and kayaker, Wendy Dunham! HI WENDY, AND CONGRATULATIONS ON THE RELEASE OF MY NAME IS RIVER (HARVEST HOUSE, 2015) AND HOPE GIRL (HARVEST HOUSE, 2016)! WHAT WAS THE MOST EXCITING PART ABOUT SEEING YOUR FIRST TWO MIDDLE-GRADE NOVELS IN PRINT? The whole experience was incredible, but there’s one thing in particular that really spoke to me — if you have a dream, a wish, or a prayer, don’t ever give up on them . . they’re placed in your heart for a reason. It might take a long time for a dream to come true, a wish to be granted, or a prayer to be answered (for me it took nearly twenty years), but when it happens, you’ll be glad you never gave up. IS THERE A THIRD BOOK PLANNED FOR RIVER? Not at the moment, but since readers have said they want another one, the idea dances

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around my mind. I think I’d really enjoy writing another story about River. It’s kind of funny, I spent so much time writing about River, Gram, and William, that they almost became like family. And now that I’m working on a different project, I actually find I miss them. RIVER LIVES IN THE TOWN OF BIRDSONG, HER LAST NAME IS STARLING, AND HER GRAM’S LAST NAME IS NUTHATCH. WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THESE AND THE OTHER BIRD REFERENCES THROUGHOUT THE NOVELS? When I started writing My Name is River, I didn’t intend to include the bird theme. It just sort of happened. It’s an interesting thing — sometimes a story or character has a way of taking over . . it’s like River grabbed me by the hand and said, “It’s got to be like this . .” For me, that’s one of the most amazing aspects of writing.

GRAM’S VOICE IS UPLIFTING AND HILARIOUS. IS SHE MODELED AFTER A REAL PERSON? ARE ANY OF THE CHARACTERS IN RIVER’S WORLD? Gram is simply Gram all in

her own right, as are the other characters. I will say, however, that many of the events in the story stem from my real life experiences — I can’t imagine writing a story without somehow weaving in bits and pieces.

HOW HAS YOUR WORK AS A CHILDREN’S THERAPIST INFLUENCED YOUR WRITING? I believe it’s given me a strong connection with children, whether they have a disability or not. Both novels have a character with some level of disability, probably because that’s what is normal for me. These two particular characters demonstrate attributes of strength and determination — of course I had to create them that way, because that’s what they wanted. HAVE YOU CONSIDERED WRITING NOVELS FOR TEENS? HOW ABOUT PICTURE BOOKS FOR CHILDREN? Right now I feel the writer inside of me is suited best for young children and preteens. But like life, everyone and everything changes, so it’s always a possibility. And yes, I have definitely considered writing picture books. In fact, when I first began writing that was my intent. Hopefully someday that will happen. Right now I’m working on a series of early readers, which has been great fun. I’m also working on a new middle-grade novel, this time a historical fiction.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST PIECE OF ADVICE FOR YOUNG WRITERS WHO WISH TO BE PUBLISHED ONE DAY? Read everything you can. And then read some more. Get involved at your local library. Take a writing class — there are many available specifically for young writers. Go to book signings and author visits, introduce yourself and ask questions. And lastly, never give up. Visit Wendy at her website (www.wendydunham.net) and at the Rochester Children’s Book Festival (www.rochesterchildrensbookfestival.com) on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at Monroe Community College.  Deena Viviani is a Rochester-based Young Adult Services Librarian. Read her book reviews at www. deenaml.livejournal.com or send her a note at DeenaViviani@hotmail.com – she loves to hear from readers!

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING AN AUTHOR IN THE ROCHESTER AREA? I would say it’s the support Rochester has available for children’s authors. I’m one of many members of the Rochester Area Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (RACWI) who meet once a month. There’s great support when a group of like-minded people meet. And in this case, we are all about the love of books and the children who read them. Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

YOUR FAMILY ACTIVITIES

By Sarah Yale

Kids Can!

GREAT WAYS KIDS CAN GIVE BACK TO OTHERS & THE COMMUNITY BEFORE HALLOWEEN

ostumes, parties and candy make for a lot of anticipation, fun and excitement for kids each October. While exact numbers are not known, the National Retail Federation estimates that more than $7 billion dollars are spent on Halloween each year, which is about $75 per person.

October is also a month with all sorts of special holidays that are perfect for giving back to others before Halloween. Your kids can choose one or two ways to utilize their pre-holiday energy to focus on doing for those less fortunate or in need of company. The projects are simple enough for toddlers, yet suitable for teens too. Children can learn from a young age to reach out to take care of others and older kids can feel good about giving back to the community.

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UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF OLDER PERSONS: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1ST The United Nations is looking into the growth of urban areas, and looking out for the growing elderly population. In 2016, Habitat III, the Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development, will focuson on older persons. According to the UN, by 2030 sixty percent of the world population is expected to be living in urban areas. Some of the conference objectives include providing services, safety, suitable housing

and transportation, preventing isolation and incorporating age-friendly public facilities. In your community, and within your family, children can do so much to help and recognize older people. The elderly are very appreciative of the smallest gestures by young people. Kids can make and give cards and pictures, take photos together, wash a window, bring a snack, read from a favorite book, share school papers, watch a movie, pray together, walk together, talk together and so much more. Children will learn the importance of reaching out to older people, and they will see how they can

make others feel happy. DO SOMETHING NICE DAY: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5TH Do Something Nice Day can be great fun for kids. While the origin of Do Something Nice Day is not known, the impact can be felt by so many people. Have children brainstorm ideas about who they want to do something for, and how they will do it. Something as simple as offering to help carry a box, holding a door open, or saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;thank you,â&#x20AC;? is a wonderful way for children to do something nice. All day long kids can be on the lookout for ways to be nice to

World Smile Day: www.worldsmile.org United Nations: www.unitednations.org USA Today Make A Difference Day: www.makeadifferenceday.com Unicef USA: www.unicefusa.org

others. As the day progresses they will feel empowered through helping others. WORLD SMILE DAY: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7TH Everyone recognizes a yellow circle with a smiley face on it, in any language all around the globe. Creator Harvey Ball, a commercial artist from Worcester, MA thought that one day a year should be devoted to smiles and acts of kindness throughout the world. The first World Smile Day was held in 1999. After his death in 2001, the Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation was founded to honor him. Kids can make smiley faces in black on yellow circles, or they can come up with their own designs, materials, color schemes and shapes. Their smiles can have messages on them. The point is to reach out to others to make them happy with warm, thoughtful greetings, expressions and words. Kids can wear their handmade smiles and tell people what day it is, or make posters to share at their schools. Maybe the whole class will get involved in spreading warmth to others. SWEETEST DAY: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15TH Herbert Birch Kingston started Sweetest Day by giving candy and gifts to people who were home-bound, less fortunate or orphaned. With the help of movie stars, Kingston, who worked for a Cleveland, Ohio candy company, distributed thousands of gifts throughout the city. Sweetest Day has spread to other parts of the country since Kingston started giving out treats in 1922 during the depression.

Sweetest Day is a great opportunity for children to bake treats or bring small candies to others. Have your kids think about who they want to deliver gifts to. Maybe a team or club group can do a Sweetest Day project together. Ask your town or church who might need a little gift. MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22ND Make A Difference Day is a national day devoted to helping other people by volunteering in the community. Since 1990, people have been reaching out in many ways to help others in need. Find out if your community or church has a Make A Difference Day program, or choose your own project. Find someone with a fence that needs mending, help at the animal shelter, or clean up the local park. Your group can get a lot done in one day to make a difference. TRICK-OR-TREAT FOR UNICEF Kids can help needy kids in the US or worldwide on Halloween through the Trick-orTreat for UNICEF program. Small collection boxes can be ordered from UNICEF to carry from door-to-door while trick-or-treating. Every coin helps, and 90.2 cents of every dollar donated to the US Fund for UNICEF goes directly to help kids. ď&#x20AC;Ť Sarah Yale is a writer and a mom who believes kids can make a big difference in our world.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

BOOK NOOK

By Deena Viviani

falling for good books

pple cider, changing leaves, and the start of a new school year – embrace the signs of autumn with this cornucopia of books!

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING SPOOKY? PICTURE BOOKS Alan’s Big, Scary Teeth By Jarvis A Dark, Dark Cave Written by Eric Hoffman & Illustrated by Corey R. Tabor MIDDLE GRADE Demon Dentist Written by David Williams & Illustrated by Tony Ross Scary Tales: Swamp Monster Written by James Preller & Illustrated by Iacopo Bruno Stink and the Attack of the Slime Mold Hardcover Written by Megan McDonald & Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds YOUNG ADULT Asylum series By Madeleine Roux Burning By Danielle Rollins Harmony House By Nic Sheff The May Queen Murders By Sarah Jude Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children series By Ransom Riggs Sweet By Emmy Laybourne

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From Apple Trees to Cider, Please!

Written by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky & Illustrated by Julia Patton Albert Whitman, 2015, hardcover, $16.99, Ages 5-7 Join a family as they spend their day at the apple orchard, learning the names of different types of apples, how cider is made, and more! The colorful illustrations have lots of details to engage children read after read.

Pumpkins

By Erika L. Shores Capstone Press, 2016, hardcover, $6.95, Ages 3-5 What are pumpkins? How do they grow? Learn the basic facts in this book with color photographs that will prepare preschoolers for their trip to the patch. The publisher’s Celebrate Fall series also contains the titles Apples, Fall Leaves, and Harvest Time.

My Leaf Book

By Monica Wellington Dial, 2015, hardcover, $16.99, Ages 5-7 Leaves are falling and covering the ground – but what types of trees do they come from? See how the girl in this story collects leaves, notices their differences, and identifies their trees. This picture book can be used as a beginner leaf and tree guide and introduction on making leaf rubbings.

Fall Leaves

Written by Loretta Holland & Illustrated by Elly MacKay Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2014, hardcover, $16.99, Ages 5-8 Some leaves leave, some raindrops fall, and some critters stay when autumn arrives. Follow the girl and boy in these beautiful paper art illustrations while reading about the science of the earth, flora, and fauna as the seasons change. The final page offers instructions on mak-

ing prints with green leaves and washable paints.

Confidentially Yours: Brooke’s Not-SoPerfect Plan

By Jo Whittemore HarperCollins, 2016, paperback, $6.99, Ages 9-12 Brooke can’t wait to start sixth grade and join the newspaper, play soccer, and campaign for class president, but when she realizes she’s stretched herself too thin, she’ll need to reach out for help to survive the school year. The newspaper advice column that Brooke and her friends write for is a cute device that carries along this fun series.

Cici Reno: Middle School Matchmaker

By Kristina Springer Sterling, 2016, hardcover, $14.95, Ages 9-12 It’s the start of seventh grade and everyone looks like they are growing up except Cici. She tries not to let it get her down until she falls for the same boy her best friend likes. Will her yoga positions and advice skills help her survive the second year of middle school? Cute yoga tips and some internet message formatting make this book a tween winner.

Lily & Dunkin

By Donna Gephart Delacorte, 2016, hardcover, $16.99, Ages 9-12 Lily, born Timothy, prepares to start eighth grade as a girl even though she was born with a boy’s body; Dunkin, born Norbert, hopes to start eighth grade as a popular basketball player even though he’s been battling bipolar disorder for years. Maybe together they can achieve their middle school goals. A great friendship story that shows everyone has something difficult to overcome in their lives.

Best Friends for Never

By Adrienne Maria Vrettos Scholastic, 2016, hardcover, $16.99, Ages 9-12 Hattie may pretend to like apple pie, but she’s legitimately excited to attend the Harvest Festival with her three new best friends. Then she accidentally triggers a decades-old festival jinx, and Hattie will have to break it to restore her friendship. This new girl story with a dash of magic has a nice small town setting and message of being true to yourself.  Deena Viviani is a Young Adult Services Librarian who writes reviews for VOYA and the RACWI Newsletter. Read more reviews on her blog www.deenaml.livejournal.com or send her a note at DeenaViviani@hotmail.com – she loves to hear from readers!

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

YOUR FAMILY ACTIVITIES

By Christina Katz

Beyond Burnout & Bickering HOW TO AVOID OVER-SCHEDULING SO KIDS CAN INDIVIDUATE

chool, sports, after-school activities, birthday parties, and social commitments â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all of these things compete for your child's energy and attention on a daily basis. And now that kids are hopping on social media at increasingly younger ages, the pressure to participate can become fierce early on. All those images of friends playing sports, hanging out at a pool party, or posing together in a gleeful gaggle may cause your child to feel like his schedule doesn't quite measure up.

But no matter whose idea it is to keep kids busy and social 247, it's ultimately every parent's job to make sure kids don't fall into the over-scheduling trap. Kids need their parents to make space for them to just be, so they don't feel compelled to constantly do-do-do. If parents don't take an active role in supporting each child's individuality, then their

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uniqueness is going to take a back seat to their busy schedule, and this can create feelings of isolation or even depression in kids and lay the groundwork for workaholism later in life. Kids discover their sense of self in the quiet moments of life, when they can relax, be themselves, and let their instincts lead. If they can't find quiet, reflective moments in

their overly busy lives, identifying individual desires may be delayed or denied. So be smarter than your sources, parents. Don't let your child's individuality get overlooked because you are keeping him steadily overbooked.

PRIORITIZE THE CALENDAR. Before you add another activity into the busy mix, pause and consider what's already on the schedule for the entire family. It's only natural to want to do it all, but saying yes to everything will only exhaust everyone and cut into valuable family time. If you can manage another addi-

Relax,Kick Back and Hang Out

Take back your family's quality of life by trying some of these simple strategies. • Have a family project you all work on year round in a leisurely manner like a vegetable garden or even a puzzle. • Go on local outings with the mission of simply hanging out together. • Take a family walk together to a special go-to location when something challenging needs to be discussed and sorted out. • Watch a family double feature with popcorn, drinks, and lively discussions. • Take the family to the library and spend an hour gathering books, magazines, music, and DVDs. • Make Sunday brunch a ritual activity either at home or at an inexpensive local restaurant. • Have a casual but consistent family meeting once a week to get a better sense of how kids are feeling about the ways they spend their time.

tion, consider it. If you can't; then it's time to prioritize. FOCUS ON ENRICHMENT. Does the activity bring more joy and energy into your child's life or does it create conflicts and anxiety? Joining the competitive soccer league may sound fun, but if your child does not enjoy the level of intensity, then maybe the local intramural league is a better fit. Don't assume the most expensive or competitive choice is always the best fit for your child's needs. Sometimes less really is more. SHRUG OFF KIDDIE COMPETITION. Pressure to conform is ever-present in childhood. Do the kids next door participate in more activities than your kids? So what. Left to their own devices, kids will often compare their experiences with other kids and find theirs lacking. How many times have you heard that their friends' parents let them do this or that? Strong, secure parents can hear this without giving in to pressure. They do? That's nice. This is what we do and these are the reasons why.

FIND MENTORS OF CHARACTER. When you choose an activity, you also choose the role model who is in charge. Make sure coaches, organizers, and leaders are the types of people you want influencing your kids. Mentors who focus on character will model healthy choices, and allow kids to act like kids while helping them build skills in a measured manner. If you are concerned that a coach or activity leader is over-zealous or too high-pressure, trust your instincts and investigate further. ALLOW FOR DOWNTIME. Be sure your family has at least a day or two each week when no outside activities are on the schedule. Whether you participate in a religious Sabbath or not, everyone in the family can benefit from observing a weekly day of rest. And spending a whole day enjoying family time each week will bring your family closer and remind everyone that family comes first. ENCOURAGE PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT. Kids need hobbies, just like CONTINUED >>> Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

adults. Private, personal activities that don't have to be shared with others can be soothing, pleasurable, and teach kids to become more self-directed. So if your child loves to bake, knit, build models, or peer at the stars, support those interests. When you buy her special ingredients, pretty yarn, three types of glue, or the slightly better telescope, you are saying, "I see you and I support the person you are becoming." Every child needs and wants this kind of recognition and acknowledgement from parents. BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF. Do you really care more about what others think of your kids than you do about your family's overall happiness? Do you worry you are living in such a dog-eat-dog world that your child has to be hyper-busy to compete? Are you so concerned about your child's social standing that you put her in activities she doesn't care about to expose her to the right kids? If any of these are true, take a step back. When it comes to scheduling for your child, let her needs lead, not yours.

We polled our readers to find the best kid-friendly products and services around the the greater Rochester area including education, classes, health, party and more.. Visit online to see if YOUR family Favorites made the list in the following categories:

• Education • Health & Wellness • Kid's Activities • Out and About with Family • Party Planning & Entertainment • Seasonal Fun • Shops & Services • Treats & Eats Find them all at

www.RocParent.com/family-favorites

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WATCH FOR SIGNALS OF OVER-DOING. Is your child happily content or often tired and irritable? Do you have a mutual admiration society at home or are family members always snipping at each other? Is everyone sleeping well at night or is exhaustion the norm? Are you in charge of the schedule or do stress and pressure run the show? Remember that your family deserves to feel calm and contented. Take charge of how you spend your time and your children will soon follow suit. 

Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and coach, who often writes on the topic of life balance and personal self-expression. She knows the power of saying no and is not afraid to use it.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

after-school & weekend activity guide Looking for enrichment programs and what to do with the kids after-school or on the weekends? Here is an array of activities for children after the final bell rings. After School Programs & Child Care Art Instruction Dance Programs Drama & Theater Enrichment, Special Learning & Tutoring Music Programs Sports & Athletics Classes and Programs

PLUS...

CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE AFTER-SCHOOL & WEEKEND ACTIVITIES DIRECTORIES AND ALL OF OUR

FAMILY-FOCUSED DIRECTORIES ONLINE FOR MORE GREAT RESOURCES AND ARTICLES

www.RocParent.com for you 24/7!

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after-school & weekend activity guide

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

after-school & weekend activity guide

Looking for even more After-School Programs?

Visit our online directory of After-school and weekend activities

at www.RocParent.com

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after-school & weekend activity guide

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

after-school & weekend activity guide

www.RocParent.com

after-school & weekend activity guide

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

www.RocParent.com

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016

CALENDAR

SEPT & OCT EVENTS

Activities • Exhibits • Theater • Storytelling • Shows • Family Fun • Outdoor Adventures Parenting Programs • and lots more for families to do in & around Rochester!

ZOOBOO

AN ANNUAL FAVORITE AT THE SENECA PARK ZOO

rick or treat with the animals this Halloween! Unearth some fun at this annual Halloween tradition for ghosts and goblins of all ages. Put on your most spooktacular costume and join Bella the orangutan for a conservation-themed trick-or-treating adventure through the Seneca Park Zoo every Saturday and

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Sunday, October 15-30. With trick-or-treat stations, activities for kids and adults, a twice-daily costume contest and special fall treats for the animals, ZooBoo is an experience your family won’t soon forget.

WHERE The Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St. Paul Street, Rochester, NY 14621 ADMISSION Member Tickets: Advance: $6.50, Day of gate sales: $7.50. Non-Member Tickets (requires regular Zoo admission as well: Advance: $7.50, Day of gate sales: $8.50 ZOOBOO DATES Every Saturday and Sunday, October 15-30. MORE INFO (585) 336-7200, http://senecaparkzoo.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 11 * Sunday

calendar guide: October ��51 November ��54 Halloween Events ��56

Clothesline Art Festival

Enjoy family art activities and visit the museum, food vendors, live entertainment and more. Rain or shine! . $5 (MAG members $4) 10 and under free if accompanied by an adult. 10am-5pm. Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Ave., Rochester 14607. 276-8900. mag. rochester.edu/events/clothesline-festival/

09 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on a fluffy

pillow and enjoy an animal-themed story or two and a humane education component. It’s a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop.org/education

SustainABLE and Building with Biology Days Join us at

Tales and Tails Story Time Story hour with farm animal visitor! Come for stories and meet a new farm animal friend. The event is free of charge and open to the public, but no buses please. No registration is required. 11am. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com

Community Garage Sale

10 * Saturday Clothesline Art Festival Enjoy family

art activities and visit the museum, food vendors, live entertainment and more. Rain or shine! . $5 (MAG members $4) 10 and under free if accompanied by an adult. 10am-6pm. Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Ave., Rochester 14607. 2768900. mag.rochester.edu/events/clothesline-festival/

SustainABLE and Building with Biology Days Join us at the museum

to discover sustainable science practices and explore the wonders of synthetic biology. 11am-3pm. Rochester Museum and Science Center, 657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. . www.rmsc.org

Rochester Rhinos vs New York

Enjoy the game with family and friends. Check the website for game day specials and promotions. 5 05pm. Rhinos Stadium, 460 Oak St., Rochester 14608. 454-3000. www.rhinossoccer.com

the museum to discover sustainable science practices and explore the wonders of synthetic biology. 11am-3pm. Rochester Museum and Science Center, 657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. . www.rmsc.org

Treasures await you and bargains abound...the sheer number and variety of items available at these sales defy easy description. But whatever you consider the right stuff, you have a good chance of finding it at Community Garage Sales and Superfleas. 8am-2pm. Rochester Public Market, 280 N. Union St., Rochester 14605. 428-6907. www.cityofrochester.gov

Wilmot Warrior Walk Join UR

Medicine’s Wilmot Cancer Institute for the fourth Wilmot Warrior Walk on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016 at the Highland Park Bowl in Rochester. Each year, thousands of people in our region are diagnosed with cancer. 7 30am-5pm. Highland Park, 1440 South Ave., Rochester 14620. 276-4715. WarriorWalk.URMC.edu

16 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle

up on a fluffy pillow and enjoy an animal-themed story or two and a humane education component. It’s a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd.,

Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop.org/education

Tales and Tails Story Time

Story hour with farm animal visitor! Come for stories and meet a new farm animal friend. The event is free of charge and open to the public, but no buses please. No registration is required. 11am. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com

17 * Saturday Family Archaeology Weekend Experience real-time

scientific discovery and get your hands dirty as we excavate an 18th century farmhouse foundation and discover pioneer-era artifacts. 9am-4:30pm. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. . www.rmsc.org

Disney’s My Son Pinocchio: The Musical Join the Blue Fairy,

Stromboli and a lively cast of characters as Geppetto journeys beyond the toy shop to discover the true meaning of family... heartwarming family entertainment. 11am-4pm. School of the Arts, 45 Prince St., Rochester 14607. 254-0073. www.RapaTheatre.org

Disney’s My Son Pinocchio The Musical Join the Blue Fairy,

Stromboli and a lively cast of characters as Geppetto journeys beyond the toy shop to discover the true meaning of family… heartwarming family entertainment. 11am-2 30pm. School of the Arts, 45 Prince St., Rochester 14607. 254-0073. www.rapatheatre.org

Sonic the Hedgehog’s 25th Anniversary Celebrate the anniversary of the iconic game Sonic the Hedgehog—one of the newest inductees to The Strong’s World Video Game Hall of Fame. 11am-4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org

Honeycrisp Weekend A first annual event to celebrate Honeycrisp apples, a truly unique fruit. Complete with apple picking, hayrides, face painting, pony rides, magician, live music and more! Special ice cream treats and apple eats will also be available. 11am-5pm. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com LIKAH! A Puppy Dog Tale The Musical LIKAH! A Puppy Dog Tale The Musical at The Rochester Fringe Festival Blackfriars 795 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14605 Likah, a young puppy dog, just can’t wait to tell you about…Likah! 11am-Noon. Blackfriars, 795 E Main St, Rochester 14605. 7523174. www.deeparts.org

Oktoberfest: German Heritage Day Celebrate

our German ancestors through food, drink, dancing and music! Experience a German festival like no other! Set within a reconstructed 19th-century village, it’s the perfect ambiance for the following activities: . 10am-4pm. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 294-8218. www.gcv.org

KettleFest 2016 Join us for KettleFest, a one-day celebration of local sustainable farming and artisanship on Saturday, September 17th, 2016. A variety of family-friendly activities will be taking place throughout the day, including: - Live music. 10am-5pm. Kettle Ridge Farm, 515 Log Cabin Road, Victor 14564. . www.kettlefest.com Old Frost Town Hike Consider the past and enjoy the present during this rare opportunity to visit the most private sections of the nature center. 10am-Noon. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. www.rmsc.org

PLEASE NOTE:

Dates and times for all calendar and ongoing events are subject to change. Please call the numbers provided or visit their website to confirm event information.

WANT TO SEE YOUR EVENT IN PRINT & ONLINE?

To submit an event to our calendar e-mail: calendar@GVParent.com NEW: Submit your calendar events online at www.RocParent.com/calendar/calendar-submit All entries must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication in order to be considered. Events printed as space permits.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES My Genesee Weekend Immerse

yourself in the unique history and science of the Genesee River. Join Zoo staff and docents for Native American cultural exhibits and festivities featuring the Ganondagan State Historic Site. Learn about the importance of the Genesee River 10am-4pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. senecaparkzoo.org

19 * Monday Storytime Club: New Beginnings Readings of classic

children’s tales at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Have your Storytime Club passport punched once during each visit. 10 30-11:30am. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org R

18 * Sunday Sonic the Hedgehog’s 25th Anniversary Celebrate the anni-

versary of the iconic game Sonic the Hedgehog—one of the newest inductees to The Strong’s World Video Game Hall of Fame. 1-4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. . www.museumofplay.org

Fall Foliage by Trolley Sundays

only: Enjoy the beauty of autumn in western New York State from the window of an authentic 89-year-old electric trolley car. Trolleys depart every half hour starting at 11:30 a.m., and no reservations are required. Admission $8 adults... 11am-4pm. New York Museum of Transportation, 6393 East River Rd, West Henrietta 14586. 533-1113. www.nymtmuseum.org

Family Archaeology Weekend Experience real-time scientific discovery and get your hands dirty as we excavate an 18th century farmhouse foundation and discover pioneer-era artifacts. 9am-4:30pm. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. www.rmsc.org

Disney’s My Son Pinocchio The Musical Join the Blue Fairy,

Antique Fire Trucks Pumpers, hook-and-ladders, fire engines… they’ll all be there to kick off the museum’s annual Fall Foliage ride season. These beautifully restored fire trucks are proudly displayed by the Genesee Valley Antique Fire Apparatus Association. 11am-5pm. New York Museum of Transportation, 6393 East River Rd, West Henrietta 14586. 533-1113. www.nymtmuseum.org My Genesee Weekend Immerse

www.RocParent.com

23 * Friday Fringe Festival: Ruts! The Oregon Trail Experience 6

p.m. & 8 p.m. The Oregon Trail— one of the newest inductees to The Strong’s World Video Game Hall of Fame—is brought to life in Ruts! The Oregon Trail Experience. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org

Tales and Tails Story Time

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle

24 * Saturday Fringe Festival: Ruts! The Oregon Trail Experience 6

p.m. The Oregon Trail—one of the newest inductees to The Strong’s World Video Game Hall of Fame—is brought to life in Ruts! The Oregon Trail Experience. 6pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org

Rochester Rhinos vs Toronto

Enjoy the LAST scheduled game with family and friends. Check the website for game day specials and promotions. 5 05pm. Rhinos Stadium, 460 Oak St., Rochester 14608. 454-3000. www.rhinossoccer.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Geneseo Autumn-Wingfest Don’t miss

the 2016 Autumn-Wingfest, a day full of food, live music & entertainment, contests, fall fun and of course, chicken wings! On Center Street from 12-3PM, restaurants from all over Livingston County will serve up their specialty Noon-4pm. Center Street, Geneseo, Buffalo Road Center Street, Town of Geneseo.. apog.brownpapertickets.com

Disney’s My Son Pinocchio - The Musical

Join the Blue Fairy, Stromboli and a lively cast of characters as Geppetto journeys beyond the toy shop to discover the true meaning of family… heartwarming family entertainment. 11am-2 30pm. School of the Arts, 45 Prince St., Rochester 14607. 254-0073. www.rapatheatre.org

Eastview Mall Super Saturday: Wild Science Wild Science: Eastview’s Super Saturdays

event on September 24 from 11am – 2pm. Science AND animals will take center stage during our September Super Saturdays event with the Rochester Museum & Science Center and the Seneca Park Zoo! 11am-2pm. Eastview Mall, 7979 Pittsford Victor Rd., Victor 14564. www.eastviewmall.com

Wildlife Festival See more than 50 exhibitors

and vendors. Free event. Get hands on experience in outdoor activities and with rare and exotic animals. 10am-5pm. Niagara Power Vista Visitors Center, 5777 Lewiston Rd., Lewiston 14092. 716-286-6661. www.nypa.gov/vc/niagara.htm

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Children’s Institute Kids & Trucks

at Frontier Field VIP Lot KIDS & TRUCKS is a family-friendly event that allows children and adults to experience a variety of different kinds of trucks up close - They can crawl into the cab, beep the horn, and just have a fun 10am-4pm. Frontier Field VIP Parking Lot, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 295-1000, ext. 237. www.childrensinstitute.net/kids-and-trucks

Barktober Fest Walk for the Animals Get ready! Get your tail waggin’! Go! It’s Barktober Fest Walk for the Animals! On September 24th, Lollypop Farm is hosting the biggest pet-friendly walk and festival to benefit homeless and abused animals in our community. 10am-4pm. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 5852231330. www.lollypop.org

WXXI Open House Free event... Experience all WXXI has to offer as we celebrate 50 years of public media in Rochester! You'll have a chance to tour our facility, meet our staff, learn more about our partnership with the Little Theatre, and so much more. There will be music, station tours, and lots of interactive activities from community partners. 10am-3pm WXXI Studios, 280 State Street, Rochester. interactive.wxxi.org/openhouse Big, Scary, and Extinct Display Opening Explore children’s long-standing

DINOSAURS: LAND OF FIRE AND ICE Roar in for the Dinosaurs:

look of these fearsome

Land of Fire and Ice exhibit

creatures.

opening Saturday, September 24 at The Strong museum and

•

The Land of Ice: Trek

explore the world of dinosaur

north to what is pres-

play. Journey back to the

ent-day Alaska to learn

tumultuous late Cretaceous

about cold-weather

period and investigate the

dinosaurs.

clues that these mysterious creatures left behind in three

•

dynamic landscapes:

Field Research Station: In the Big Dig, put on goggles, grab some

•

The Land of Fire: Visit the

tools, and try to find

Montana of 70-million

the remains of ancient

years ago and inspect

dinosaurs, including the

realistic sculptures of the

Tyrannosaurus rex and

mighty Tyrannosaurus rex

ferocious Velociraptor.

and the horned Triceratops. Discover the latest scientific thinking about the colors, textures, and

www.RocParent.com

OPENS September 24 WHERE The Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester, NY 14607 ADMISSION Ages 2 and older $14, under age 2 free, members free. MUSEUM HOURS Monday–Thursday, 10am-5pm.; Friday and Saturday, 10am-8 pm and Sunday, noon5pm. MORE INFO 585-263-2700, museumofplay.org

fascination with dinosaur play at the new Big, Scary, and Extinct display, companion to the Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice exhibit. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay. org

Civil War Encampment Visit the Granger Homestead’s Civil War Encampment to see living history at its finest. This annual event is co-sponsored by the Granger Homestead and Reynolds Battery L, 1st New York Light Artillery. Check website for updates and hours. 9am. Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum, 295 N. Main St., Canandaigua 14424. 3941472. grangerhomestead.org

Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice Exhibit Opening Go back in time to

when dinosaurs roamed the Earth and get up close with touchable dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes—including a Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. Uncover fossils with brushes, create drawings of dinosaur environments, .... Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www. museumofplay.org

NAPLES GRAPE FESTIVAL The grapest festival in the land! Arts and Crafts, wine tasting, food, Grape pie contest, family entertainment, live music. Please leave pets at home. Naples High School, Route 21 South, Naples 14512. www.naplesvalleyny.com

Living History - Exploring Haudenosaunee Arts Traditional Art

Exploration will take place in gallery and in the Bark Longhouse where re-enactors will talk about the functional use of baskets, pottery, weavings, etc 10am-4pm. Seneca Art & Cultural Center at Ganondagan, 7000 County Road 41, Victor 14564. . www.ganondagan. org/Events-Programs/Calendar

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 25 * Sunday

26 * Monday

Community Garage Sale

Storytime Club: New Beginnings Readings of classic

Art at the Zoo Spend time with

local artists learning how to capture the beauty of the Zoo’s animals through art. 10am-4pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. senecaparkzoo.org

September Afternoon Concert Series The Rochester Academy of

Medicine welcomes home the 20162017 Afternoon Concert Series! We are excited that our East Avenue salon will once again be filled with music as always intended by the Lyon family. 2pm. Rochester Academy of Medicine, 1441 East Avenue, Rochester 14610. raom.org/event-2283865

, Rochester 14850. www.downtownithaca.com

Tales and Tails Story Time

a fluffy pillow and enjoy an animal-themed story or two and a humane education component. It’s a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 2231330 x 173. lollypop.org/education

Ithaca Apple Festival Apples, local produce, fresh baked goods, family entertainment at every turn, games, rides, prizes and live performances on two stages. The pedestrian mall is the epicenter of the festival and the gateway to a nostalgic journey to harvest season fun. Downtown Ithaca,

02 * Sunday Community Garage Sale

01 * Saturday

Alice in Wonderland @ Strong 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Journey

Dryden Kids - FANTASTIC PLANET On the planet Ygam, ruled

30 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on

October—the highlight of the harvest season. . 10am-4pm. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 2948218. www.gcv.org

October R

down the rabbit hole to the world of Alice in Wonderland during preview performances by the New York State Ballet. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org

Fall Festival & Agricultural Fair October 1 & 2, 10 a.m. to 4

by the gigantic blue Draags, humanlike creatures named the Oms are the enslaved pets of the Draag children. When the Draags decide to exterminate all the Oms, the little people fight back. 2pm-4pm. Dryden Theatre, 900 East Ave., Rochester 14607. 271-3361. eastman.org

p.m. each day. Gather the family, cook up your famous fruit preserves, make your shopping list and head to the fair on the first weekend in

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Get Moving Challenge Join

the American Diabetes Association for the inaugural Get Moving Challenge! Come explore new physical activities you love, or may have always wanted to try - just for the health of it! Choose from a variety of fitness activities, 9am-5pm. Total Sports Experience, 880 Elmgrove Rd, Rochester 14624. . diabetes.org/getmoving

Parkinson’s Moving Day Walk 2016 will see NPF Greater

Rochester celebrating it’s 5th Moving Day® Rochester, NY event! Moving Day® is the National Parkinson Foundation Greater Rochester’s annual fundraising walk event. It is a fun and inspiring fundraising event that unit... 8am-Noon. Monroe Community College, 1000 East Henrietta Rd, Rochester 14623. 234-5355. www.movingdayrochester.org

03 * Monday Storytime Club: Autumn Adventures Readings of classic

05 * Wednesday Book and Beast at the Zoo

Bring your little ones to the Zoo for a cuddly story and special animal visitor each week! Free with Zoo admission. 11am. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. 336-7200. senecaparkzoo.org

07 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle

09 * Sunday Community Garage Sale

www.RocParent.com

Rochester 14605. 428-6907. www. cityofrochester.gov

10 * Monday Explorers of the Night This

Columbus Day, meet nocturnal animals such as a barred owl from the Seneca Park Zoo. Take pictures with storybook characters that love nighttime, including Janell Cannon’s bat Stellaluna and Jan Brett’s hedgehog Hedgie. 11am-4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org

12 * Wednesday Book and Beast at the Zoo

14 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle

NYSB presents Alice in Wonderland Enjoy the start of

the performance season with this beautiful ballet performed by the New York State Ballet. Tickets $10$30. 7pm. Penfield High School Auditorium, 25 High School Drive, Penfield. 1-800-838-3006. www.NewYorkStateBallet.org

15 * Saturday

Falling Leaves Hike Discover

how nature prepares for winter and explore fall foliage on this guided exploration of the autumnal forest. 10am-Noon. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. 374.616. www.rmsc.org

NYSB presents Alice in Wonderland Enjoy the start of

the performance season with this beautiful ballet performed by the New York State Ballet. Tickets $10$30. 2 pm and 7pm. Penfield High School Auditorium, 25 High School Drive, Penfield. 1-800-838-3006. www.NewYorkStateBallet.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 16 * Sunday

19 * Wednesday

Community Garage Sale

Book and Beast at the Zoo

NYSB presents Alice in Wonderland Enjoy the start of the

performance season with this beautiful ballet performed by the New York State Ballet. Tickets $10-$30. 2pm. Penfield High School Auditorium, 25 High School Drive, Penfield. 1-800838-3006. www.NewYorkStateBallet.org

17 * Monday Storytime Club: Autumn Adventures Readings of classic

21 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on

22 * Saturday Halloween Trolley Express

All aboard the Halloween Special! Children and their parents are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes and join us for a special day at the transportation museum. The trolley takes you to the Pumpkin Patch were you’ll decorate a free pumpkin 11am-6pm. New York Museum of Transportation, 6393 East River Rd,

West Henrietta 14586. 533-1113. www.nymtmuseum.org

25 * Tuesday

Winnie-the-Pooh: The Musical

Finding Neverland The Musical FINDING NEVERLAND tells

Winnie-the-Pooh, the famous bear of Very Little Brain, is singing happily that “Isn’t it funny how a bear likes honey,” when the “terrible” trouble begins. Kanga comes to the forest with soap for baths and spoonfuls of Strengthening Medicine! Som... 11am-4pm. Kodak Center for Performing Arts, 200 West Ridge Rd., Rochester 14615. 5852540073. www.RapaTheatre.org

The Missing Rainbow Be an

the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. 7:30pm. Rochester Broadway Theatre, 885 East Main Street, Rochester 14605. . rbtl.org

26 * Wednesday

investigative reporter as you search for colorful pieces of the missing rainbow. Travel through various habitats and bring a small bag to collect mementos of your experience. 10am-Noon. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. 585.374.6160. www.rmsc.org

Book and Beast at the Zoo

24 * Monday

Storytime Club: Autumn Adventures Readings of classic

Finding Neverland The Musical FINDING NEVERLAND tells

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 27 * Thursday

885 East Main Street, Rochester 14605. rbtl.org

Finding Neverland The Musical FINDING NEVERLAND

30 * Sunday

tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. 7:30pm. Rochester Broadway Theatre, 885 East Main Street, Rochester 14605. rbtl.org R

28 * Friday Finding Neverland The Musical FINDING NEVERLAND

tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. 8pm. Rochester Broadway Theatre, 885 East Main Street, Rochester 14605. . rbtl.org

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle

29 * Saturday Finding Neverland The Musical FINDING NEVERLAND

Finding Neverland The Musical FINDING NEVERLAND

tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Rochester Broadway Theatre, 885 East Main Street, Rochester 14605. rbtl.org

31 * Monday

Looking for Halloween events & activities? R

Check our complete section starting on page 56

november 02 * Wednesday Book and Beast at the Zoo

FIND MORE!

FOR MORE CALENDAR EVENTS AND PLACES TO GO, CHECK OUR WEBSITE WHERE YOU WILL FIND: Access to events by month and day

Review events by selection of library, storytimes, free events, sports, outdoor fun and more... New events posted weekly

WWW.ROCPARENT.COM 54

www.RocParent.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 04 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on a fluffy pillow and enjoy

an animal-themed story or two and a humane education component. It’s a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop. org/education

05 * Saturday Dino-MIGHT Weekend Meet and take pictures with Buddy of the popular PBS Kids series Dinosaur Train. View artifacts that explore why powerful dinosaurs fascinate children and inspire their play in the new Big, Scary, and Extinct display. 11am-4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org Haudenosaunee Days Celebrate Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) culture — past and present — with artisans from the community. 11am-3pm. Rochester Museum and Science Center, 657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. www.rmsc.org

06 * Sunday Dino-MIGHT Weekend Meet and take pictures with Buddy of the popular PBS Kids series Dinosaur Train. View artifacts that explore why powerful dinosaurs fascinate children and inspire their play in the new Big, Scary, and Extinct display. 1-4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org Haudenosaunee Days Celebrate

Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) culture — past and present — with artisans from the community. 11am-3pm. Rochester Museum and Science Center, 657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. www.rmsc.org

07 * Monday Storytime Club: Fun with Food Readings

of classic children’s tales at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Have your Storytime Club passport punched once during each visit. 10 30-11:30am. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. www.museumofplay.org

09 * Wednesday Book and Beast at the Zoo Bring your

little ones to the Zoo for a cuddly story and special animal visitor each week! Free with Zoo admission. 11am. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. 336-7200. senecaparkzoo.org

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

halloween events & activities

19 * Saturday

Mischief, Murder & Mayhem

Hear tales of some of the cemetery’s permanent residents who bent, broke, or enforced the law. MeetCemetery Office at South Entrance. $7 per person. 12 PM. Mount Hope Cemetery, 1133 Mount Hope Avenue, Rochester . 461-3494. www.fomh.org

24 * Saturday R

Punkin’ Fest Annual Fall festival

with fun for the whole family! Punkin Chunkin World Champions launch pumpkins in their trebuchet on Sweets Corners rd. Juggling entertainment between launches.Enjoy Chainsaw Wood Carving Demos, Face Painting, & more. 11:30am-3:30pm. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. www.wickhamfarms.com

Mischief, Murder, and Mayheim On this sooky tour meet

some of Mount Hope’s permanent residents who bent, broke, or enforced the law; or whose lives met unfortunate ends. $7 per person. Free for members and children under 16 accompanied by a paying adult. 11am. Mount Hope Cemetery, 791 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester 14620. 461-3494. www.fomh.org R

October

01* Saturday

Theme Tour: Shadow of Shakespeare For the quadricen-

tennial of Shakespeare’s death, this fun tour relates famous Shakespeare quotes to some of our Mount Hope residents. Admission: $7 per person. Free for members and children under 16 who are accompanied by a paying adult. 11am-Noon. Mount Hope Cemetery, 791 Mt. Hope Avenue,

www.RocParent.com

Rochester 14620. 461-3494. www.fomh.org

Pumpkin Patch Trains Enjoy a

mile-and-a-half train ride through our rural museum grounds, located in the scenic heart of the Genesee Valley! Ride aboard authentically restored freight train cabooses to the Pumpkin Patch! Every child will visit our Pumpkin Patch. 10am. Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad Museum, 282 Rush Scottsville Road, Rush 14543. . rochestertrainrides.com

Haunted History Ghost Walks

Haunted History Ghost Walks- Walk through the haunted town. Meet in front of the courthouse and get ready for an evening stroll with the unknown! 7pm. Museum of Wayne County History, 21 Butternut Street, Lyons 14489. (315)946-4943. www.waynehistory.org

First Annual Fall Craft Show

Join us for a fun, free, family-friendly event that includes a chance to shop local, quality, handmade merchandise from over 25 vendors, door prize drawings with free entry and multiple chances to win, and DIY crafts for all ages at no cost to you. 9am-3pm. Faith Baptist Church of North Chili, 2954 South Union Street, Rochester 14624. 5855942244. www.facebook.com/ events/271421316559863/

02 * Sunday

Pumpkin Hollow At Gro-Moore Farms Our Pumpkin

Hollow is a chance for kids to select the perfect pumpkin from our display, and enjoy a wide variety of games, crafts and other activities while parents get the chance to get those great scrapbook pictures or even revisit some childhood. 10am-5pm. GroMoore Farms, 2811 East Henrietta Road, Henrietta 14467. 359-3310. www.gromoore.com

Pumpkin Patch Trains Enjoy a

mile-and-a-half train ride through our rural museum grounds, located in the scenic heart of the Genesee Valley! Ride aboard authentically restored freight train cabooses to the Pumpkin Patch! Every child will visit our Pumpkin Patch. 4:30pm. Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad Museum, 282 Rush Scottsville Road, Rush 14543. rochestertrainrides.com

03 * Monday

Pumpkins On Parade Join

us for a fun-filled evening featuring delicious food and drink, fabulous desserts,silent and live auctions, music, raffles, and more! Each year, Gro-Moore Farms hosts our Pumpkins on Parade Charity Event, featuring a rich assortment of decorated pumpkins. 6pm. Gro-Moore Farms, 2811 East Henrietta Road, Henrietta 14467. 486-0591. www.gromoore.com

Pumpkin Patch. 10am. Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad Museum, 282 Rush Scottsville Road, Rush 14543. rochestertrainrides.com

SCAERIAL ADVENTURES JOIN

US FOR FUN AND FRIGHTS IN OCTOBER 2016, on the haunted zip-lines and eerie bridges at Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures with: 3 SPOOKY (not scary) aerial adventure courses, for ages 7 & up 6 30-10pm. Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures, 5589 South Hill Road, Canandaigua 14424. 374-1180. bristolmountainadventures.com

Pumpkin Hollow At GroMoore Farms Our Pumpkin Hollow is a chance for kids to select the perfect pumpkin from our display, and enjoy a wide variety of games, crafts and other activities while parents get the chance to get those great scrapbook pictures or even revisit some childhood. 10am-5pm. Gro-Moore Farms, 2811 East Henrietta Road, Henrietta 14467. 359-3310. www.gromoore.com

Haunted History Ghost Walks

07 * Friday

SCAERIAL ADVENTURES JOIN

08 * Saturday R

Pumpkin Patch Trains Enjoy a

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

09 * Sunday

Pumpkin Hollow At GroMoore Farms Our Pumpkin

Hollow is a chance for kids to select the perfect pumpkin from our display, and enjoy a wide variety of games, crafts and other activities while parents get the chance to get those great scrapbook pictures or even revisit some childhood 10am-5pm. GroMoore Farms, 2811 East Henrietta Road, Henrietta 14467. 359-3310. www.gromoore.com

14 * Friday

SCAERIAL ADVENTURES JOIN

Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Spooktacular The

annual spook-free Halloween party is great for even the youngest members of the family! So put on your favorite costume and come for games, crafts, snacks – and carrousel rides! There will be entertainment by comedian In Jest, 5 30-8pm. Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, 180 Thompson St., North Tonawanda 14120. 716-6931885. www.carrouselmuseum.org R

Spirits of the Past — Theatrical Tours Take an after-

hours guided tour through the candlelit and spooky streets of the historic village on October 14-15 & 20-22 to find costumed characters spinning tales from iconic horror literature of the 19th century. (Reservations Required) 6-9 30pm. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 538.682. www.gcv.org

15 * Saturday R

Haunted History Ghost Walks

GRAND TORCH LIGHT TOURS: Our Tour Season Finale! Meet: North Gatehouse,

791 Mount Hope Ave., opposite Robinson Drive NO PARKING AVAILABLE IN THE CEMETERY -PARK ON ROBINSON DRIVE. Guides will take you to unique stops and share stories from Rochester’s history, by moonlight and torchlight. 6pm. Mount Hope Cemetery, 791 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester 14620. 461-3494. www.fomh.org

Spirits of the Past — Theatrical Tours Take an after-

Pumpkin Patch Trains Enjoy a

WICKHAM FARMS

Pumpkin Hollow At GroMoore Farms Our Pumpkin

16 * Sunday

Museum, 282 Rush Scottsville Road, Rush 14543. rochestertrainrides.com

18 * Tuesday

GRAND TORCH LIGHT TOURS: Our Tour Season Finale! Meet: North Gatehouse,

Pumpkin Patch Trains Enjoy a

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

halloween events continued.... 20 * Thursday

Spirits of the Past — Theatrical Tours Take an after-

hours guided tour through the candlelit and spooky streets of the historic village on October 14-15 & 20-22 to find costumed characters spinning tales from iconic horror literature of the 19th century. (Reservations Required) 6 30-9pm. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 538.682. www.gcv.org

21 * Friday

SCAERIAL ADVENTURES JOIN

US FOR FUN AND FRIGHTS IN OCTOBER 2016, on the haunted zip-lines and eerie bridges at Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures with: 3 SPOOKY (not scary) aerial adventure courses, for ages 7 & up & 2 “SC-AERIAL” adventure fright courses not for t... 6 30 PM - 10 00 PM. Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures, 5589 South Hill Road, Canandaigua 14424. 374-1180. bristolmountainadventures.com

Spirits of the Past — Theatrical Tours Take an

after-hours guided tour through the candlelit and spooky streets of the historic village on October 14-15 & 20-22 to find costumed characters spinning tales from iconic horror literature of the 19th century. (Reservations Required) 6 00 PM - 9 30 PM. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 538.682. www.gcv.org

22 * Saturday R

Haunted History Ghost Walks

Spirits of the Past — Theatrical Tours Take an after-

SCAERIAL ADVENTURES JOIN

US FOR FUN AND FRIGHTS, on the haunted zip-lines and eerie bridges at Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures with: 3 SPOOKY (not scary) aerial adventure courses, for ages 7 & up

www.RocParent.com

GENESEE COUNTRY VILLAGE AND MUSEUM 6 30-10pm. Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures, 5589 South Hill Road, Canandaigua 14424. 374-1180. bristolmountainadventures.com R

23 * Sunday

Pittsford Family Halloween Fest A free family friendly Halloween

party with trick-or-treating, games, activities, prizes, music and more. Admission: One canned good item per person to benefit the PITTSFORD FOOD CUPBOARD. Costume parade at 3:30pm 2-5pm. St. John Fisher College, 3690 East Ave, Rochester 14618. . www.townofpittsford.org

Giant Pumpkin Carving Watch a giant pumpkin creation come to life! A yearly tradition a the farm. Stay for our Farm Fresh Family Fun. Do-It-All Passes available. Jenny Bay, director of fun at Wickham Farms, will carve a giant pumpkin creation for display. 2-4pm. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-FARM (3276). www.wickhamfarms.com

Pumpkin Hollow At GroMoore Farms Our Pumpkin

Hollow is a chance for kids to select the perfect pumpkin from our display, and enjoy a wide variety of games,

crafts and other activities while parents get the chance to get those great scrapbook pictures or even revisit some childhood. 10am-5pm. GroMoore Farms, 2811 East Henrietta Road, Henrietta 14467. 359-3310. www.gromoore.com

27 * Thursday

SCAERIAL ADVENTURES JOIN US FOR FUN AND FRIGHTS IN OCTOBER 2016, on the haunted zip-lines and eerie bridges at Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures with: 3 SPOOKY (not scary) aerial adventure courses, for ages 7 & up. 6 30-10pm. Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures, 5589 South Hill Road, Canandaigua 14424. 374-1180. bristolmountainadventures.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

28 * Friday

SCAERIAL ADVENTURES JOIN

US FOR FUN AND FRIGHTS IN OCTOBER 2016, on the haunted zip-lines and eerie bridges at Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures with: 3 SPOOKY (not scary) aerial adventure courses, for ages 7 & up. 6 30-10pm. Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures, 5589 South Hill Road, Canandaigua 14424. 374-1180. bristolmountainadventures.com

Haunted Jail and Cellblock of Terror Haunted Jail/Cellblock

Terror - Set inside the Museum of Wayne County History’s Old Jail. This may scare the daylights out of you and your family! 6pm-9pm. Museum of Wayne County History, 21 Butternut Street, Lyons 14489. (315)946-4943. www.waynehistory.org

29 * Saturday

Eastview Mall Super Saturday: Halloween Party

Halloween Party: Eastview’s October Super Saturdays event. Saturday, October 29th from 11am – 1pm. Join us for a SPOOKTACULAR Super Saturday Halloween Party! 11am-2pm. Eastview Mall, 7979 Pittsford Victor Rd., Victor 14564. www.eastviewmall.com

Pumpkin Patch Trains Enjoy a

and other creatures. Take pictures and speak with fantastical hand puppet characters. Delight in storybook tales about friendly beasts. 1-4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Haunted Jail and Cellblock of Terror Haunted Jail/Cellblock

Terror - Set inside the Museum of Wayne County History’s Old Jail. This may scare the daylights out of you and your family! 6-9pm. Museum of Wayne County History, 21 Butternut Street, Lyons 14489. (315)946-4943. www.waynehistory.org

ZooBoo Unearth some fun at this annual trick-or-treat trail for ghosts and goblins of all ages. Put on your Halloween best and enjoy the autumn splendor of the Zoo. With trick-or-treat stations, activities for kids and adults, a daily costume contest 10am-3pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. 336-7200. senecaparkzoo.org Pumpkin Hollow At GroMoore Farms Our Pumpkin Hollow is a chance for kids to select the perfect pumpkin from our display, and enjoy a wide variety of games, crafts and other activities while parents get the chance to get those great scrapbook pictures or even revisit some childhood. 10am-5pm. Gro-Moore Farms, 2811 East Henrietta Road, Henrietta 14467. 359-3310. www.gromoore.com

Jumpin’ Pumpkin Jamboree

Dress up in your favorite Halloween costume for a day of fun. Kids will receive a Trick or Treat on board. Bounce house, tattoos, face painting, arts & crafts, bean bag toss, coloring and food vendors. Train departs Noon & 1:15pm Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Ave., Medina 14103. 7986106. www.medinarailroad.com R

Jack-O-Lantern 5k, 10k & Kids Dash For the best Halloween

family fun run in Canandaigua! It doesn’t matter how fast you are it’s about putting one foot in front of the other and trying. New this year – a 10k! We’re so excited to bring this opportunity to you. 8 45am-Noon. Canandaigua YMCA, 32 North Main Street, Canandaigua 14424. 394.6866. www.canandaigua-ymca.org

TRICK OR TREATING at Marketplace Mall Bring the

kids dressed up for Halloween and Trick or Treat in a safe, fun indoor environment throughout the mall. 11am-1pm. Marketplace Mall, 1 Miracle Mile Dr, Rochester 14623. 475-0757. www.themarketplacemall.com

M is for Monster Get ready for a ferociously fun time! Stop by Elmo’s World to meet the furry red monster

Tails & Treats Come for a Spooktacular evening of Trickor-Treating around the farm and Howlingly-fun games and activities! Games and Activities Include: Trickor-treating with the animals, Spooky animal facts, Witches Brew toss game, Halloween games Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 201. www.lollypop.org Trick-or-Treating in the Village October 29 & 30, 12

p.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Enjoy an autumn afternoon strolling the streets of the Historic Village as you visit with townsfolk in modern costumes. Approximately a dozen of the village’s historic buildings will be open for kid... Noon-4pm. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 294-8218. www.gcv.org

30 * Sunday

a mile-and-a-half train ride through our rural museum grounds, located in the scenic heart of the Genesee Valley! Ride aboard authentically restored freight train cabooses to the Pumpkin Patch! Every child will visit our Pumpkin Patch. Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad Museum, 282 Rush Scottsville Road, Rush 14543. rochestertrainrides.com

Dryden Kids - THE GOONIES

A group of misfit kids in the Pacific Northwest find a map and go in pursuit of One-Eyed Willy’s pirate treasure, hidden in their beachfront community. Their chief obstacles are a series of treacherous tunnels, booby-trapped caves, and more 2pm-4pm. Dryden Theatre, 900 East Ave., Rochester 14607. 271-3361. eastman.org

Pumpkin Hollow At GroMoore Farms See Oct 29th Al Sigl Community WalkAbout Join us inside Eastview Mall on Sunday, October 30th, to celebrate abilities and inclusion together! Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The event begins at 9:30 a.m. Donate or raise $20 or more per adult or $40 per family. 8 30am. Eastview Mall, 7979 Pittsford Victor Rd., Victor 14564. 585.442.4100. www.alsigl.org

Halloween at Wickham Farms

Trick-or-treat around the farm. (FREE), Costume parade at 1:30 p.m. (FREE), Giant pumpkin drop at 1:45 p.m. A tractor to pick up and drop the giant carved pumpkin. Come watch it smash! Face painting $1. And much more fun for the full family. Noon. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. www.wickhamfarms.com

M is for Monster Get ready for a ferociously fun time! Stop by Elmo’s World to meet the furry red monster and other creatures. Take pictures and speak with fantastical hand puppet characters. Delight in storybook tales about friendly beasts. 11am-4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org R

Trick-or-Treating in the Village October 29 & 30, 12

Haunted Garden Stroll

Halloween Walk. Hear strange Sonnenberg tales from the last 126 years that will leave you in goosebumps! Be ready for spooky characters during the walk. Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park, 151 Charlotte St., Canandaigua 14424. (585)394-4922. www.sonnenberg.org

31 * Monday

Toddler Trick-or-Treat Bring

the littlest trick-or-treaters to enjoy Halloween activities and prizes! Come in costume and collect prizes from favorite storybook characters including Little Bo Peep, Red Riding Hood, and others. Dance to Halloween music, play party games 10am-2pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Looking for even more Halloween events & activities? Visit our website for new and updated listings www.RocParent.com

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • September/October 2016

www.RocParent.com

2/15/13

are you planning a party? CHECK OUR PARTY & CELEBRATION GUIDE FOR ARTICLES & GREAT PARTY IDEAS!

WWW.ROCPARENT.COM Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;¢ September/October 2016

FIVE

PLACES

apple picking L

ooking for something fun and active to do with the entire family this fall? Visit a local orchard and go apple picking! Everyone will get lots of fresh air and there will be tasty fruit to bring home and incorporate into all kinds of healthy treats. Along with apple picking, many of the orchards offer picnic areas, pony rides and special weekend activities including games, rides and mazes. Your family will go home after a day of fun with memories and great tasting locally grown apples. Who knows â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you may have started a new fall tradition!

The Apple Farm

Green Acre Fruit Farm

www.thevictorapplefarm.com

www.greenacreupick.com

Open 10am-6pm daily

Starting Tuesday after Labor Day, open daily. 11:30am-5pm

1640 State Route 444 Victor, 14564 924-3420

You will find organic and natural food, 11 varieties of apples that are available for picking throughout the season late August through the end of October. Take the wagon ride to the orchard, pick your own apples, and then enjoy a game of disk golf and other activities.

3460 Latta Road Rochester, 1412 234-0252

Twenty-two varieties of apples at the farm ensure that you can find an apple for every taste and method of preparation. Check the website to see ratings for your favorite apples for eating, baking and storing and for picking dates. Pumpkins are available from September through October as well.

www.RocParent.com

Lagoner Farms 6895 Lake Avenue Williamson, 14589 315-589-4899

www.lagonerfarmscsa.com

Saturday-Sunday: 10am-4pm During the months of September and October, Lagoner Farms invites you and your family to pick apples all weekend long. Step into a decorated backyard and onto a hayride to begin your journey of family fun. You can even grab lunch at the Market CafĂŠ. You don't want to miss the fall fun activities, so check the website and join the email list.

Morgan's Farm Market

Whittier Fruit Farm

www.morgansfarmmarket.com

www.whittierfruitfarm.com

Tuesday-Friday: 10am-6pm, Saturday: 11:30am-5pm, Sunday: 10am-5pm

Monday-Friday: 12-7pm, Saturday and Sunday: 10am-5pm

3821 Cory Corners Road, Marion, 14505 315-926-0910

You can visit this U-Pick farm daily for seasonal apples and pumpkins. Special event highlights include tractor-pulled wagon rides to the orchard, U-pick apples and a small petting zoo. Check the website for event details.

219 Whittier Road Rochester, 14624 594-9054

Unlike many fruit farms in the area, Whittier Fruit Farm has trees that are just the right height for a "pick your own" farm. You will find 32 different varieties of apples in a fairly compact area. You also can buy apples already picked in the store.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ September/October 2016