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12 months - 8th grade

Contents

January 2018 • Vol. 29, No. 1

CAMP 2018

Camp 2018 6 Summer Enrichment: An Invesment in Your Child 14 How to Choose a Summer Camp 18 Sleep-Away vs. Day Camp 20 2018 Camp Directory

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In This Issue 4 National Catholic Schools Week 8 Navigating Complex Special Education Laws 10 Mid-Year Elementary School Blues 12 Urgent Care Centers: Pros & Cons 13 Children Build Skills with Singapore Math 22 Win It!

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Family Fun 24 Indoor Play Places 25 Day-by-Day Events Calendar Ad Sections 7 Events; 9 Health; 11 Schools; 15 Camps; 29 Childcare

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MetroKids.com 3

Moms Know

National Catholic Schools Week A nationwide celebration of Catholic schools takes place Jan. 28 – Feb. 3

On Jan. 28, Catholic schools will gather together in observation of National Catholic Schools Week (NCSW), an annual celebration of culture and community dating back to 1974.

“The purpose [of NCSW] is to shine a light on Catholic schools and the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to the Catholic Church, local communities and the nation,” explains Margaret Kaplow, public relations manager with the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA).

Monica McCourt Ramos, a Philadelphia resident and mother of two Catholic school children, will be participating in her 12th National Catholic Schools Week in 2018.

“My favorite thing about Catholic Schools Week is touring the classrooms and seeing how proud the students are to show off their work,” she says. “It is important to recognize the contributions of Catholic schools. They play a big role in our communities and the future of our communities. The lessons we teach our children today will be carried into the future. It is very important for them to

learn to give back and help how they can.”

Held each year on the week beginning on the last Sunday in January, NCSW provides individual schools a chance to shine.

“Each year, we begin planning very early for Catholic Schools Week,” says Carl P. Jankowski, the principal of Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Maple Shade, NJ. “This week gives us an opportunity to celebrate all that encompasses Catholic schools—our parish, our community, our students, our nation, vocations, and our faculty, staff and volunteers, and finally, our families.

Our Lady of Good Counsel School in Moorestown, NJ, plans to mark the occasion with activities including a lip sync battle, “knowledge bowl,” spelling bee, student vs. faculty basketball game, silly sock day, pep rally and a sports jersey day.

“Catholic Schools Week is a great way for us to showcase our school to the community,” says Denise Costic, administrative assistant with Our Lady of Good Counsel School.

“We can highlight the advantages of a student receiving a Catholic education.”

Catholic Schools by the Numbers

6,429 1,878,824 TOTAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS NATIONWIDE

SCHOOLS

NATIONWIDE

12:1

NATIONAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENT-TO-TEACHER RATIO

DELAWARE

36

10K

President: Nancy Lisagor, PhD, ext. 109 nlisagor@metrokids.com Publisher: Darlene Weinmann, ext. 108 dweinmann@metrokids.com Managing Editor: Leigh Stuart, ext. 102 editor@metrokids.com Resource Editor: Cheyenne Shaffer, ext. 101 calendar@metrokids.com Contributing Writers: Terri Akman, Suzanne Koup-Larsen, Frank Lipsius, Kathy O’Connell, Ann L. Rappoport, PhD Production Manager: Veronica Hanna, ext. 103 production@metrokids.com Finance: Marcella Reis, ext. 104 finance@metrokids.com Marketing/Circulation: Alex McLaughlin, ext. 100 info@metrokids.com

18.4%

NATIONAL NON-CATHOLIC STUDENT TOTAL ENROLLMENT

17

Elementary schools in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Wilmington

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS — PARISH, REGIONAL, DIOCESAN AND PRIVATE — IN THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON, WHICH COMPRISES THE STATE OF DE AND NINE COUNTIES IN EASTERN MD

STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON DURING THE 2013-14 SCHOOL YEAR

1412-1414 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19102 215-291-5560; 856-667-3555; 302-224-3020 Toll Free: 888-890-4668 Fax: 215-291-5565 Visit us online at MetroKids.com

10,600

APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF WILMINGTON TODAY

ADVERTISING SALES 888-890-4668 Chrisy Holsopple

ext. 111

Pam Kuperschmidt

ext. 120

Emily Ondik

ext. 105

Samantha Tuttle

ext. 106

ext. 100

Classified Sales

We welcome your ideas and feedback. Write us at editor@metrokids.com or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google Plus and Instagram.

MetroKids® is published monthly by KidStuff Publications, Inc. © 2018 MetroKids® Magazine. All rights reserved by KidStuff Publications, Inc. ISSN 1094-8503. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material. MetroKids® or KidStuff Pub­lica­t­ions do not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. MetroKids® and SpecialKids® are trademarks of KidStuff Publications, Inc. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Advertisers indemnify and hold harmless the publisher from any claim and all loss, expense, or liability arising out of the publication of any advertisement.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.A. $36, one year; $72, two years. Single copies free.

AWARD–WINNING MEMBER OF THE:

Information courtesy of National Catholic Educational Association and Catholic Diocese of Wilmington

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JANUARY 2018

Summer 2018

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SUMMER ENRICHMENT SPORTS. TECH. THE ARTS. A smart investment in your child

“When parents send their children to Lavner Camps, they are truly investing in their child — skill-building, safety, happiness.” ~ Justin Lavner, CEO/Executive Director of Lavner Camps The greater Philadelphia area is lucky to abound with stellar enrichment options for children throughout the scholastic year, but an oft-overlooked option comes in the summer months. One national expert, Justin Lavner of Lavner Camps, believes wholeheartedly in the value of encouraging children to spend the warmer months engaged in learning a new skill or honing an existing one.

“As a person, whether a child or adult, it is always important to learn and grow, which in many ways can translate to overall happiness,” CEO/Executive Director Lavner says. “Our summer enrichment programs have a camp culture that is super fun, but the camps are also full of valuable learning opportunities. At camp, our campers have the opportunity to specialize in various areas of interest, learn from great instructors and engage in curricula that is developed by our in-house experts. The goal is for each camper to build skills, gain confidence, make friends and have tons of fun!”

Lavner Camps, which span the U.S. from

Photography courtesy of Betsy Barron

6 MetroKids.com

the East Coast to California, has myriad locations throughout this area, specializing in 35+ areas in sports, technology, the arts and education. With 14 locations in PA, NJ and DE, Lavner Camps is a national leader in helping young people reach their dreams through exploration and discovery.

“I have known the Lavner Camps from the time when Justin Lavner was standing on the tennis court working with the kids himself,” says Christian Terwiesch, father of Lavner campers and professor at the Wharton School - University of Pennsylvania. “All three of my kids played tennis with Justin, who was an outstanding coach and both passionate and professional about his camp.

“Back then, Justin already had the vision to grow his tennis camp into high level specialty camps that allow kids to succeed in sports, tech and the arts,” Terwiesch continues. “I have stayed in touch with Justin and have been impressed by how he was able to maintain the camp culture of learning, performance and fun as he scaled his camps up from one tennis court to camps offered at the national level.”

Lavner Camps is a family-owned and -operated business that has blossomed into premier destinations for summer fun, safety and high-quality learning opportunities.

“We believe that we are the national leaders in summer enrichment camps,” Lavner says. “We are accredited by the American Camp Association, which has 400+ standards for health and safety, showing our commitment to safety first.

Native Content

Our camp programs are developed inhouse by our experts — we have our own sports, technology and arts departments, which allow us to create and control high level camp experiences that we deliver to our many campers.” For summer staff, Lavner Camps employs a carefully selected, passionate and talented staff, and hires fewer than 8 percent of applicants.

Their expert, full-time leadership team consists of employees with training and education from institutions including the University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School, Columbia University, Cornell University, Brandeis University and more.

“This group knows high-quality enrichment programming and how to deliver on a camp model that optimizes the experience for our campers and families,” Lavner says of his staff. “We recently sent our tech director to Tokyo for two weeks to do additional research on robotics and Artificial Intelligence, in preparation for our Robotics with AI camp that we now offer at many of our locations throughout the U.S. This is the type of commitment we put forth to develop incredible camps for our campers.

“While our camps are really fun, they are also result-driven, meaning that our programs work to ensure that campers are learning and building skills,” Lavner continues. “When parents send their children to Lavner Camps, they are truly investing in their child — skill-building, safety, happiness, education, and it’s our priority to make sure that our camp families have an amazing experience with us from start through finish.”

Lavner Camps is not just a camp, it’s a place with purpose — to give thousands of kids an incredible experience each summer, prepare them with real-world skills, and welcome them to our amazing camp family. To learn more about Lavner Camps, visit lavnercamps.com.

JANUARY 2018

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MetroKids.com 7

SpecialKids

Navigating Complex Special Education Laws

By Debra Wallace All parents want to find a school that has a supportive environment in which their child can to thrive.

Endrew F. vs. the Douglas County School District

The parents of one Colorado student tested federal special education laws when they withdrew their son from public school – placing him in a private school – and sued their school district for what they called “inadequate educational progress.” They also sought reimbursement for the cost of the other school.

They cited the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law that “requires public schools to provide students with disabilities a free and appropriate education.”

Federal law also provides that “if a school cannot meet the educational needs of a disabled student, the student’s parents can place the child in private school and seek reimbursement of tuition and related expenses.”

On Aug. 25, 2015, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit – in Endrew F. vs. the Douglas County School District – ruled against the family being reimbursed by the Denver school district, finding that “the child received some educational benefit that is enough to satisfy the district’s obligation to provide a free appropriate public education.”

The case went on to the Supreme Court, which decided on March 22, 2017, to uphold the basic provisions of IDEA and, some would argue, strengthen it. In a unanimous opinion written by Chief Justice John Roberts, the Court vacated

8 MetroKids.com

the judgment of the 10th Circuit court and held that the proper standard under the IDEA “is markedly more demanding than the ‘merely more than de minimis’ test applied by the Tenth Circuit.”

A meaningful IEP

Erika Tross, a Delaware education and family law attorney, believes that the Endrew F. decision put schools on notice that they can no longer allow children to pass from grade to grade without a meaningful Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

“Those schools are going to have to up their game,” she says, “by tailoring their IEPs, providing challenging objectives and giving the children meaningful opportunities to gain an education.”

She says that one of the goals of the IDEA is for children to become “functioning and productive members of society.”

After the Endrew decision, schools need to make sure that their IEPs are helping students to be able to do that.

“Parents need to remain active in the IEP process, know their child’s limits and capabilities, and make sure the IEP is tailored to the needs of the individual student,” she continues. “It is the parents’ and the schools’ responsibility to ensure that the child is making progress in light of his or her individual circumstances.”

Tross never likes to recommend suing as a first step and believes mediation is a better option than heading straight to a courtroom. “If you can do this without an attorney, it can sometimes be more effective,” says Tross. “But if you feel you are still not being heard, then get an attorney to help you through the process.”

When the IEP process doesn’t work

Attorney Craig David Becker practices education law and criminal defense in Pennsylvania and New Jersey from his offices in Bensalem, PA, and Mount Laurel, NJ. Becker has personal experience with navigating a school district. He was diagnosed with a reading disability, and was not expected to finish school. Instead, his parents pushed his school to provide proper help, and he attended law school to become an attorney in 2003.

Becker’s goal as an education attorney is to “give the child a fair chance at life.

“First, I will encourage the parents to get this done in the school district, but if it is not taking place, I would recommend placement in an out-of-the-district or private school program,” he continues.

A major part of this process is figuring out what the child needs and what the school district lacks.

“For example,” he said, “if the public school has a child with autism and does not have trained aides, or skilled speech and language therapists, it is not going to be realistic for the district to implement a beneficial program, and in some instances, it may be easier, and more cost effective, to fund a program out of the district or at a private school.”

Evaluation

Becker cited another appeals court ruling — Ridgewood Board of Education vs. N.E. for M.E. The ruling, handed down March 30, 1999, applies to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, and recognized that a student “needs to get a meaningful

JANUARY 2018

SpecialKids benefit from his education, and that it should be gauged in relation to the child’s potential.” (The ruling pertained to PA, NJ, DE and the Virgin Islands.)

He explained that the child does not have to be exactly on grade level, but the parents should examine if there is a significant difference between the child’s ability and what the child is achieving.

Becker stresses that the law requires school districts to look at many factors when determining ability, including factors beyond IQ testing. He says that many issues impact IQ test results, such as the type of test, test environment and the student’s emotional state.

“If parents question an educational evaluation they should have the evaluation reviewed by an attorney and/or educational expert to determine if the district properly performed the evaluation,” he says. “I often find significant flaws in educational evaluations.”

Alternative placement

Kathleen Smookler, head of school for ATG Learning Academy in Doylestown, said that one of the most important questions raised from the Endrew F. ruling is:

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE A LANGUAGE DELAY?

“Who sets the education guidelines to base the decisions on?”

“There is no ‘one size fits all’ in special education,” she says, “and we need to respect everybody’s individuality.”

During the past 10 years, an estimated half of her 200 students, in first grade through high school, have come to the school because of a law suit with a local school district, and Smookler realizes what a major ordeal it is to document everything.

“I have tremendous respect for the parents who go through this,” she says.

Often, parents have sued because the cognitive test scores are extremely low, and the district’s defense is that the student can’t learn. “But, when we get these same students in the right environment, we discover that they can thrive with the right curriculum.”

Expert tips for parents of special education students: • • •

Know your rights.

Be diligent and follow through with all of the information you receive from the school.

Ask: How is the child’s instructional

•

• •

• • •

program being implemented – individual instruction or a group? Is the teacher certified? How many times a week is the class? Does this follow the program’s recommendations?

You are getting reports and report cards; but, what do they mean?

Also, where is your child in relation to his or her peers?

Ask: What are the school team, district and IEP goals doing to bring your child up to grade level?

Attend the IEP meetings so you can make sure you understand everything that is going on. If you feel you are not being heard, seek an advocate.

Question everything. Find out who is setting the standards.

Make sure your child has the correct testing and evaluations.

Seek smaller classrooms and individualized attention. If a child is not learning, it is incumbent upon the team to find a new effective approach to help the child.

Debra Wallace is a freelance writer.

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Education

Mid-Year Elementary School Blues How to Keep Kids Motivated Throughout the School Year

By Sarah Lyons Frost has crept across the grass, the thrill of winter break is in the rear view and the excitement of a new school year has worn off. This is when kids start to drag their feet a little more on school mornings as they return for the start of the second semester. How do you keep them motivated to finish the last months of the school year with gusto?

Set goals

It’s important to let your child know you have high expectations for her throughout the year, not just the first semester. Work with your child to set goals for success and reward her for meeting her goals. Some kids may need an academic goal, while others might need to strive for punctuality or timeliness with assignments. Work with your child’s teacher to devise a set of relevant goals specific to your child.

Rewards could include a family outing, extra screen time or the choice of a special toy.

Stay positive

A positive attitude can go a long way for both parents and kids. Focus on the joys of scholastic enrichment, time with friends and upcoming events to remind your child that school is still as fun as it was back in August.

Your child will pick up on your upbeat attitude and share it.

Show interest

When your child returns home from school, ask her how she spent her time. Ask about her friends and the highs and lows of the day. Listen attentively and ask questions.

When it is homework time, be available to help and answer questions. Children mirror parents’ engagement, so if you are interested in the goings-on at school, your kids will be, too.

10 MetroKids.com

Get involved

Kids who are involved in school activities tend to be more excited about school. Encourage your child to join clubs and/ or after-school activities so that he or she can spend time with friends who have similar interests. Parents can also get involved at the school to break up the mid-year blues.

When parents volunteer at the school, it shows your child that his role as a student is valued. Check with your school to see what volunteer opportunities are available.

Continue healthy habits

Encourage your child to get a good night’s rest, eat a healthy breakfast and focus on good study habits. An after-school routine to complete homework and chores will help your child fall back into the school schedule after winter break. Set aside time for free play as well. Host a play date, have a movie night, go to the park if weather allows or schedule time for fun and relaxation so kids don’t get too bored with their routine.

If the mid-year blues still get to your child, don’t hesitate to contact his or her teacher to discuss a plan to get your child back on track. Soon enough, the days will get longer, the temperatures warmer and school will be out for summer once again.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer.

JANUARY 2018

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MetroKids.com 11

Health

PROS AND CONS

of Urgent Care Centers

By Cheryl Lynne Potter Urgent care centers have revolutionized how parents access health care for themselves and their children.

According to the website of the American Academy of Urgent Care Medicine, urgent care centers provide treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that occur on a day-to-day basis.

Appointments aren’t required and the centers are equipped to help the entire family, including children. Urgent care centers are generally open seven days a week and have day and evening hours.

How urgent care centers operate

At some urgent care centers, patients are seen by licensed physicians, while at others, patients may be seen by a certified family nurse practitioner or a physician assistant. Some urgent care centers may be affiliated with a hospital, while others are walk-in medical clinics inside retail health care centers such as CVS’s MinuteClinics, which also provide urgent care services.

When an urgent care center is affiliated with a hospital, there are generally “more resources for the patients who go there,” says Mary Ann Yehl, DO, director of urgent care at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, which has multiple locations in New Jersey. “Most hospitals/healthcare systems have a rigorous process to credential all providers, which adds peace of mind for the patients who are seen.”

Pros and cons

Convenience is a main reason urgent care centers are so popular among patients compared to traditional doctor visits.

“Urgent care facilities offer extended hours of operation relative to traditional primary care offices,” says Rick S. Grodin,

12 MetroKids.com

chief operating officer for Premier Urgent Care. “As an example, Premier is open from 9am to 9pm, 365 days a year.

Therefore, urgent care centers are an excellent extension of the PCP [primary care physician] office for after-hours, weekend and holiday care. As an example, we were open on Thanksgiving and I know our patients were appreciative.”

“We understand that families are busy and that sometimes your kids may come down with a sore throat after hours or on the weekend or may need a sports physical in order to start soccer practice tomorrow. That’s why our ability to offer a full medical team and convenient hours without an appointment is a huge benefit,” says Ellen Dietrick, spokesperson for MedExpress Urgent Care, which has more than 200 urgent care centers nationwide in states including PA, NJ and DE. “With most MedExpress patients in and out in less than an hour, our centers are a great option for those unscheduled, time-sensitive needs. We also value the importance of continuity of care, so we help to coordinate follow-up and specialty care with other health providers to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.”

Quality of care

Urgent care centers also provide an “excellent quality of care for patients who need help with injuries and illnesses when most doctor’s offices are closed,” says Christine Stallkamp, MD, FAAFP, medical director of urgent care services at Pennsylvania’s Main Line Health.

“It’s important to understand that the urgent care center can be a convenient solution for medical care but not all medical care,” says Dr. Yehl, adding that urgent care centers have found their niche in the areas of coughs/colds,

sprains/strains and lacerations, among other ailments.

“We can treat nearly 85 percent of all cases that would typically go to the Emergency Room,” Grodin says. “Urgent care is typically much more cost-effective relative to the ER. A typical ER visit will usually cost somewhere between three and 10 times more than an urgent care visit. With the continued growth of high-deductible plans, many patients are acting like consumers to find out where they can lower their out-of-pocket responsibility. Urgent care co-pays, and payments towards deductibles, will almost always be advantageous compared to the ER.” However, if a medical condition requires a “higher level of care, you may need to go to the Emergency Room,” says Dr. Yehl. “Any life-threatening condition should be seen in the Emergency Room.”

“While urgent care centers do offer comprehensive and quality care, it’s important to remember that they shouldn’t be used as a substitute for a primary care or family doctor,” says Dr. Stallkamp. “If you visit the urgent care or the emergency department, you should always follow up with your physician. This way, if there are lingering symptoms, you can work together to develop a plan for long-term treatment.”

Cheryl Lynne Potter is a freelance writer from South Jersey.

JANUARY 2018

Sponsored Content

Singapore Math at St. Anne’s Episcopal School I n a world in which our mobile devices can access answers faster than we can compute them, how do we equip our children for the future? Students must have strong problem solving, critical thinking, communication and collaborative skills to prepare for secondary education and a future of yet-to-be invented careers. Singapore Math develops all of these skills in children, along with the highest level of foundational mathematics in the world. St. Anne’s Episcopal School in Middletown, DE, has made teaching this method a priority since the fall of 2016.

Singapore Math is a research-based method of teaching known for its emphasis on depth and process over memorization and drill work. It reinforces the life lesson that there is more than one way to solve a problem. The Singapore Math approach has caught the attention of many around the world because Singapore consistently ranks at the top of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) assessments of global achievement in mathematics and science.

One of the defining features of Singapore math is visualization. Students are

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JANUARY 2018

introduced to three methods of application: concrete, pictorial and abstract.

These methods underscore real-world applications of math and help develop children’s desire to solve problems on their own.

Students must also work collaboratively with their peers to problem solve. In this way Singapore Math also teaches children to communicate, to listen and to respect their classmates. These critical life skills help children learn teamwork and how to navigate and build positive relationships in life.

The program at St. Anne’s was initially launched in Kindergarten through Second Grade with the help of a grant from the Longwood Foundation and the guidance of Sarah Schaefer, M.Ed., an international expert in Singapore Math and principal of M4thodology. Now in its second year, the program includes Third and Fourth Grade students. Feedback on the new approach has been great: “Finding the answer is just one small piece of the puzzle,” explains Valerie White, director of curriculum and instruction at St. Anne’s. “What is more important is the ability to think critically and understand the ‘why’ behind the solution. When we press kids to think more deeply and demonstrate understanding of the concept or skill, we are extending their learning to create true mastery.”

“What has been happening in the classrooms here is really exciting,” says first grade teacher Melissa Meier. “Because we use the Singapore Math approach to teach place value, our students have a deeper understanding of numbers and how they relate to each other. My first graders this

year have stronger number sense, which is the foundation of all mathematics.”

First grade teacher Tara Ligouri and Meier are also collaborating with educators on a national pilot project for Singapore Math materials.

John Burk, director of academic innovation, physics, mathematics and computer science at St. Andrew’s School in Middletown, DE, notes, “As a high school math and science teacher, I see daily that the most successful students are the ones who develop a flexible approach to problem-solving, are willing to seek out more than one way to solve a problem and embrace the creative exploration that is integral to math and science.

“As a kindergarten parent, I am thrilled that my daughter is learning to approach math in a playful and creative way that is helping her develop a joyful approach to learning math, grounded in deep understanding that will serve her throughout her education,” he adds.

St. Anne’s Episcopal School is a co-ed independent day school for children in Preschool (age 3) through Grade 8 that focuses on academic excellence and spiritual growth in a small, family-oriented and diverse community.

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Camp

How to Choose a

SUMMER CAMP

gia, 10, and Marina, 8 — and she chose to ease them into a camp experience by first sending them to a nearby day camp when they were 6. By age 7, Georgia was ready for a residential experience.

“She’s the type of kid who is fiercely independent and never had a problem sleeping out,” says Michaels, a resident of Philadelphia’s Bella Vista neighborhood.

Georgia went for one week when she was 7, then two weeks at 8, and four weeks once she turned 9.

But the timetable was different for her younger sister. “Marina told me she wasn’t ready yet but then a year later she said she was ready, but she just wanted to go for one week,” Michaels says.

Cass Winner, director of extended day and camp programs at Wilmington Montessori School in Delaware, reminds parents to consider each child’s individual needs. For example, “some children have heat sensitivity and if they have to be outdoors every minute of the day they’re going to be miserable,” she says. “You might want a place that has a balance of indoor and outdoor or has air conditioning if they’re feeling overheated.”

Questions to ask

By Terri Akman Despite the winter weather, now is the time to think about your child’s summer camp experience. Whether choosing a day camp, residential camp or specialty program, experts urge you to do your homework to find the best fit.

All camps teach life lessons, encouraging kids to build relationships, try new things and gain independence. For some camps, those lessons happen within typical programs, such as swimming, arts and crafts, sports and music. Others specialize in a specific area, such as soccer, theater or robotics.

“When a child feels safe at camp and is engaged with the staff and connected to the other campers, he or she is willing to try new things and will take positive risks,” says Tom Rosenberg, American Camp Association president.

When to start camp

The average age to begin day camp is 7 or 8, and a bit older for residential camp, says Rosenberg. But you are the best judge of your child’s readiness to be away from home — and your willingness to let your child go.

As a child, Cristy Michaels had a wonderful experience at Appel Farms, an arts and music camp in Elmer, NJ. Michaels wanted a similar experience for her girls — Geor-

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CAMP

Talk to friends and neighbors and explore camp websites as a good way to get started. Be sure the camp you choose is accredited by the ACA, insists Rosenberg.

This ensures the camp has complied with 300 health and safety standards.

Once you narrow down your choices, it’s time to speak with the camp director and make plans for a visit.

Here’s a checklist of questions to ask: • What are the lengths of sessions?

• What is the camp’s culture and philosophy?

• What activities does it offer?

• What is the social environment?

• What are the rules around cell phone and computer use?

• Are campers allowed to go onto social media?

• Is the camp state or ACA accredited?

• What is the background of the director and staff ?

• How is the staff trained?

• Is staff, including lifeguards, first aid and CPR trained?

• What is the minimum age of staff ?

• What is the counselor/camper ratio?

• What are the medical facilities and who are the medical personnel?

• For what reasons are parents called?

• What is the parent visitation policy?

• What are the food options?

continued on p.16 JANUARY 2018

DELAWARE DANCE COMPANY A non-profit organization committed to bringing high quality dance training and performances to the community

Enrol ling new students through January 16.

SuMMER CAMPS 2018

With over twenty years of experience, DDC’s summer dance camps have proved to please both those who love dance as well as those with no dance experience.

This year, DDC will offer three weeks of camp, each one centered around a style of dance. “I Love Ballet” camp for children ages 4 to 10 years, as well as “All that Jazz (and Hip Hop and more)” and “Modern Movement” weeks for campers ages 6 to 10 years will be offered. Each camp will culminate with a fully costumed performance on stage at a University of Delaware venue. Camp hours and schedule TBA. Programs will be offered the weeks of

SuMMER WORkShOPS 2018 DDC resident faculty are joined by guest teachers to provide excellent training that will challenge students technically and artistically. Each week culminates with a performance.

First Focus Dance Workshops For dancers 9 years and older with at least one year of dedicated pre-professional ballet training. (DDC 1X/2/2X)

Intensive Dance Workshops For dancers 10 years and older with at least three years of dedicated pre-professional training. (DDC 3 and up) Intermediate and Advanced levels offered.

Workshops will be offered the weeks of June 18-22, June 25-29 and July 9-13, 2018

June 18-22, June 25-29 and July 9-13, 2018.

Visit www.delawaredancecompany.org for more info.

DDC will also offer a two-week Musical Theatre Camp for children ages 6 to 13 years old. Participants dance, sing and act as they prepare a fully staged version of a popular show. July 16-27, 2018.

168 S. Main St., Suite 101 Newark, DE 19711 302-738-2023 This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com

Summer 2018 Starts Here!

9 weeks (ages 3 to Grade 12) 70+ themed camps and enrichment classes 20+ camp programs managed by Tatnall Faculty/Staff 3 on-campus pools offering daily lessons, a clinic, and

June 18 – August 17

a summer swim team

9 weeks of on- and off-campus field trips

Each summer, our beautiful 110-acre campus transforms into a venue offering limitless combinations of exciting summer camps and enrichment classes.

(for traditional day camps)

2 Philadelphia 76ers-instructed basketball camps (Numerous study skill and preparatory classes and for-credit classes for high school students)

Register Today! (302) 892-4347 | www.ATatnallSummer.org

JANUARY 2018

CAMP

MetroKids.com 15

Camp

Wilmington Friends School Summer Camps

Continued from p. 14

• Can they accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences?

• Is the camp very structured or do kids have downtime?

• What makes the camp unique and special?

• What are the costs?

Most importantly, discuss your child’s personality and individual needs.

Parent visitation

About 90 percent of camps surveyed by the ACA restrict cell phone usage, so if a parent wants to speak with his or her child at camp, the parent needs to call the camp directly. That’s not something parents or kids are used to in the cell phone generation, but it’s wonderful for the kids, says Rosenberg.

“It’s an opportunity to look people in the eye and have a very social summer,” he says. “Kids need to develop core social-emotional skills.”

Theresa Booth, senior director of child development at Camp Merrywood in Pittsgrove, NJ, encourages parents to make an unscheduled visit to the camp while their child is there. “When the camp has an open-door policy, you know there isn’t anything they are trying to hide,” she says.

June 18 through August 24 Lower School Camp, lscamp@wilmingtonfriends.org For children in preschool - 5th grade. Weekly themes, active games, and art; ice skating, swimming, and bowling; optional specialty camps including soccer, tennis, art, STEM Design, cooking, and adventure camps.

Middle School Camp, mscamp@wilmingtonfriends.org For children entering 5th - 9th grade. Choose Base Camp or Theme Camps: art, adventure, sports, STEM, cooking and 3D printing.

Check in with the camp director, letting him or her know you want to see your child for a few minutes. “Parents need to ask their child questions: Is everyone treating you all right there?

Has anyone said anything inappropriate to you? Is there anything I need to know?”

Quaker matters. Come see why.

Visit us at wilmingtonfriends.org or call 302-576-2998.

Terri Akman is a MetroKids contributing writer.

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continued on p. 20 JANUARY 2018

WILMINGTON BALLET Summer Princess Camp Princess camp offers Creative Dance and basic ballet moves, fairytale princess stories, snacks, crafts and an end-of-the-week performance. Ages 3-6

NOW ENROLLING for Summer 2018!

302.655.1004 | WILMINGTONBALLET.ORG JANUARY 2018

CAMP

MetroKids.com 17

Camp

SLEEP-AWAY

DAY CAMP Which is right for your child?

By Suzanne Koup-Larsen While there’s no set recommended age for kids to begin attending residential camps, the majority of kids start between 10 and 12 years old, says Tracy Power, camp director at Appel Farm Arts Camp in Elmer, NJ. But don’t rule out starting younger kids at sleep-away camp. “Kids are often a lot more capable than we give them credit for,” she says.

“For any camp, parents should consider their kid’s personality,” says Rebecca Howell, manager of Studio Learning & Creative Engagement at the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington, DE. For instance, some shy kids may have a tough time at sleep-away camp because there are many required social activities such as performing skits and singing in front of the campfire. Camp directors recommend that you research and ask questions to find the right camp for your child. “There’s a camp out there for every single kid,” says Power.

Day camp

“Day camps are good for kids with other things going on in their lives,” says Cathy Perrotto, camp and scout coordinator at the Delaware Museum of Natural History.

Time demands on kids are different than they were a generation ago. Many kids have commitments that continue into the summer. “Day camp is sort of the best of both worlds,” says Perrotto. “Have fun during the day and then go back home and do your thing.”

18 MetroKids.com

Day camp can be a primer for future sleep-away camp experiences. Many kindergartners or first graders will do better in a day camp as their first camp experience, says Elizabeth Frederick, camp director for Shelly Ridge, a Girl Scout camp in Lafayette Hill, PA. Also, day camps tend to be shorter, taking place on a Monday through Friday schedule for one or two weeks.

Sleep-away camp

Sleep-away camp is a big time commitment that is 24 hours a day for as long as eight weeks during the summer. While homesickness is perfectly normal, it’s not insurmountable. “One of the most valuable parts of sleep-away camp is learning the coping skills to manage homesickness,” says Power.

“Resident camp is good for fostering independence,” Frederick agrees.

Readiness signs

How do you know your child is ready to take on the challenge of sleepaway camp? Camp directors advise parents to look for these signs.

• Expressed desire to attend sleepaway camp • Success at sleepovers • Mastery of self-care skills: hygiene, appropriate dress, etc.

CAMP

Preparation for camp

“First graders can thrive in resident camp. It’s all about the preparation the family puts in,” Frederick says. She recommends preparing by giving children a bit of independence, such as allowing them to pack their own backpack, or pour their own cereal or juice. Also, if possible, practice spending the night away from mom and dad for several nights.

In addition, many camps offer camp tours so kids and parents can get a preview of what the living situation is like, says Power.

“You want their first experience to be a positive one, an enjoyable one,” says Todd Landrey, director of camps for the Philadelphia 76ers, which has camp locations around the Delaware Valley. He recommends sending kids to day camp first, then progressing to an overnight camp experience. Some day camps offer “sleepover” single nights for a trial experience. “The first time should always be a week,” Landrey says of residential camps. “You should never bite off more than you can chew.”

Suzanne Koup-Larsen is a MetroKids contributing writer.

Go to MetroKids.com/camps to find the right camp for your child.

JANUARY 2018

JANUARY 2018

CAMP

MetroKids.com 19

CAMP 2018

Directory

DELAWARE

Thrilling adventures are in store for children at summer camps throughout the Delaware Valley in 2018! This camp directory includes an ample array of choices for all abilities, ages and interests.

Navigate the directory by focusing on your preferences for: • Geographic area: Camps are grouped by county & outlying areas.

• Category: Each description is prefaced by camp type — day, program, residential, special needs or travel.

• Special features: Blue icons at the end of each listing indicate if a camp offers extended day care, part-day or part-week schedules, financial aid or transportation. Abbreviations denote whether a camp is ACA accredited, has a counselor-in-training program or may accommodate some special needs. See the key at the bottom of the page.

Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps.

Contact camps to express interest and mention you saw their listing in MetroKids.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Kidz, Ink Camp Wow!

Locations in Bear, Dover, Middletown & Smyrna, DE kidzink2@comcast.net KidzEarlyLearning.com

Lavner Camps!

Multiple Locations in PA, NJ & DE 610-664-8800 justin@lavnercampsandprograms.com Lavnercampsandprograms.com

DAY Our summer camp program is packed with many fun activities that include weekly field trips, weekly cooking activities, swimming, music & sports, CSI Thursdays & much more. 6am-6:30pm. Breakfast & afternoon snack included. 1 Songsmith Dr., Bear, 302838-1500; 1703 Porter Rd., Bear, 302-838-5400; 645 W. North St., Dover, 302-730-4034; 125 Sleepy Hollow Dr., Middletown, 302-376-5917; 616 W. Glenwood Ave., Smyrna, 302-653-4034.

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Lavner Camps! is your summer camp destination for the #1 camp experience in sports, technology & the arts! With award-winning summer camps at 14 Philadelphia metro, New Jersey & Delaware locations, with 30+ specialty camps to choose from, an incredible summer camp experience awaits your child! Our cutting-edge summer camps include soccer, basketball, tennis, robotics, Minecraft, coding, game design, culinary arts, fashion, film & more! Additional camp locations in NYC, Manhattan; Washington, DC; Towson, MD; & St. Louis, MO! Ages 6-15, Coed.

ACA Space is limited, register now!

New Castle County Summer Camps Various locations in New Castle County, DE: Claymont, Middletown, New Castle, Newport, Newark, North Wilmington, Glasgow, DE 302-395-5600 hmergenthaler@nccde.org Nccde.org/camps

DAY Sports Camps’ Full-day All Sports Camp; Half-day: Skateboarding, baseball, basketball, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball, speed & agility. Recreation Camps, Full-Day at 5 sites; Half-Day at Battery Park, Old New Castle, Leasure and Brookside Elementary School. Specialty Camps - Safety Town, Artventures at NCC Art Studio, and Rockwood Museum Camp Drama & Science Explorers STEM, Camp CarouCIT SN sel.

YMCA of Delaware Day Camps Multiple Locations in DE & MD 302-221-9622 Ysummercamp.org

DAY, RESIDENTIAL The YMCA has been hosting camps for 100+ years. Our camps provide youth 5-17 with a safe environment to play, learn, grow and make new friends while fostering social, cultural, physical & emotional development. Many options: arts & crafts, sports, team-building, science & nature, music, teen leaders and more. Staff have background checks and first aid and CPR certification. ACA

2018 Delaware Aerospace Academy PO Box 125 Bear 302-834-1978 dasef.outpost@verizon.net DASEF.org

DAY, PROGRAM, RESIDENTIAL Hands-on training in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), earth, ocean and dinosaurs. Grades 1-10. Day Academies: Two different half-day sessions offered the same week at the Environmental Outpost in Smyrna: Destination Ocean and Destination Dinosaur, June 1822. Four different sessions offered the same week at the University of Delaware in Newark: Destination Sky and Beyond, Destination Space, Destination Flight and Destination Orbit, June 25-29. Residential Academies: Two different sessions offered the same week at the University of Delaware in Newark: Destination Moon and Destination Mars, July 8-13.

2018 Summer Stage Dance and Theatre Camps at Delaware Arts Conservatory 723 Rue Madora, Ste. 4 Bear; 302-595-4160 info@delarts.com; DelArts.com

DAY Pursue your passions in musical theatre, dance, acting, music & visual arts! Day camps for ages 2-16.

Day and evening intensives for intermediate through professional performers. Each themed camp and SN intensive ends with a live performance.

A Tatnall Summer: Day Camps, Sports Camps, Swim Team 1501 Barley Mill Rd. Wilmington; 302-892-4347 ATatnallSummer@tatnall.org ATatnallSummer.org

DAY The Tatnall School opens its 110-acre campus to the community June 18-Aug. 17, with exciting new summer camps and classes serving children ages 3-grade 12. With half- and full-day offerings plus extended day, Tatnall provides a variety of activities including sports, swimming, science, music, arts, CIT computer design and more.

Brandywine Zoo Camp 1001 North Park Dr. Wilmington 302-571-7850, ext. 209 education@brandywinezoo.org Brandywinezoo.org

DAY, PROGRAM Brandywine Zoo offers indoor/ outdoor spring break and holiday camps, and full- and half-day summer camps. For ages 5-13, aftercare available. Focus on fun, animals, and learning through live animal presentations, crafts, games, stories, and learning projects. See Camps section on website.

Camp Arrowhead 35143 Homestead Way Lewes wlafontaine@camparrowhead.net Camparrowhead.net

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Located on the shore of the beautiful Rehoboth Bay. Traditional camp activities from swimming and zip line to crafts, ropes, archery, dances and sailing. The Arrowhead experience enriches young people’s relationships with one another, nature and God. Delicious food! Call to set up a tour.

CIT ACA

Camp at NDNCC Newark Day Nursery & Children’s Center 921 Barksdale Rd. Newark; 302-731-4925 bporter@newarkdaynursery.org Newarkdaynursery.org

DAY Weekly themes reinforce teamwork, art, nature studies, sportsmanship, science and fun. Field trips & special guests/events. Ages 6-14, divided into age-based teams, each with its own classroom with experienced staff. Secure facility. Breakfast, lunch, ACA snack. Purchase of Care (POC) welcome.

Centreville Layton School Summer Program 6201 Kennett Pike Centreville 302-571-0230 djarrell@centrevillelayton.org Centrevillelayton.org

DAY Centreville Layton School offers a summer program to reinforce academic skills and organizational strategies. Additionally, our afternoon program, offered to ages 3-13, provides a nurturing environment where children can focus on building social skills and having fun. Our program is offered to students ages three to eighteen. Camp runs from June SN 25-July 27.

Concord Preschool and Childcare; 1800 Fairfax Blvd.

Wilmington 302-654-9629 Concordpreschoolandchildcare.com

DAY, TRAVEL Kids ages 1-9 can join the fun all summer or choose a specialty camp. Flexible options.

Safe, fun and nurturing atmosphere where each child is encouraged to play, learn and experiment. Quality teaching and care since 1956. Call for a tour.

Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

20 MetroKids.com

CAMP

Get more info at MetroKids’ Super Camp Fair. Jan 28 (see p. 23)

JANUARY 2018

CAMP 2018

Directory

Delaware Art Museum’s Summer Art Camp 2301 Kentmere Pkwy.

Wilmington 302-571-9590 artiscreating@delart.org DelArt.org

DAY Delaware Art Museum’s summer art camp provides a fun, creative experience with professional instruction. Young artists will explore drawing, painting, ceramics, and more! Ages 6-16. Full-day 9am-4pm + camper art show. New expanded sessions and age groups!

Delaware Dance Company Summer Dance & Theatre Camp 168 South Main Street Madeline Crossing, Suite 101 Newark; 302-738-2023 Delawaredancecompany.org

DAY For children interested in exploring dance, drama & the creative arts. Programs for ages 4-12 running in June, July & August. Full performance & pizza party each Friday evening.

Delaware Museum of Natural History 4840 Kennett Pike, Route 52 Wilmington 302-658-9111, ext. 328 education@delmnh.org Delmnh.org/camps

DAY Summer day camps for children completing kindergarten through sixth grade to explore science and nature in-depth and up-close. This year features some of our campers’ favorite camps with new handson learning activities, as well as brand new camps for each age group. Includes outdoor fun, museum gallery exploration, traveling exhibit discoveries, live animal experiences and more! For grades 3-6, two camps include optional overnight. Museum Babies program for 3 and under and Museum Peeps (half-day sessions) for ages 4-6. Extended care avail. for an extra fee.

Delaware Nature Society (Ashland, Abbott’s, Coverdale, DEEC) PO Box 700 Hockessin 302-239-2334 candy@delnature.org Delnature.org

DAY Children 3-15 connect with nature through hands-on, outdoor experiences with highly qualified instructors. Children try new activities, develop creativity and enjoy hiking, kayaking, cooking, harvesting, archery, farm animal care, nature photography, fishing, overnights, travel, explorations and dip netting. Staff are certified in first aid & CPR. CIT

Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay - Camp Country Center 1051 Sharpless Rd. Hockessin 302-456-7150 dlubbers@cbgsc.org Gscb.org/camps

DAY Do you love science and technology? GSCB STEM day camps at Country Center have something for everyone — marine biology, Minecraft, digital media, culinary science, robotics and more! Try your hand at archery. Ages 6-18. No prior Girl Scout experience needed.

Prompt & Play, LLC 5157 W. Woodmill Rd., Suite 16 Wilmington 302-691-5658 info@promptandplay.com Promptandplay.com

DAY, TRAVEL Prompt & Play’s camp program is designed so children have the opportunity for both structured and non-structured play. There are two camp group options daily based on ages and abilities.

There is a different theme each week and weekly trips designed to engage children’s creativity and imagination, while teaching them ways to interact SN with one another appropriately.

Stage Lights Dance Studio - Evening & Day Camp Classes Stage Lights Dance Studio 25 S. Old Baltimore Pike Newark; 302-453-0714 stagelights2@aol.com Stagelightsdancestudio.com

DAY Explore the world of arts. Take advantage of our 10-month class schedule or spend the summer with us. Themed camps: princess dress-up & tea party, musical theater, project fashion, hip-hop explosion, dance intensive boot camp. Safe, reliable program.

Multiple-child & multiple-camp discounts. You can’t beat our prices! Call for additional camps and specific SN dates.

Summer Adventures Camp at Hockessin Montessori 1000 Old Lancaster Pike, Hockessin; 302-234-1240 velasic@theHMS.org; theHMS.org

DAY, TRAVEL Come join the fun at Summer Adventures Camp in Hockessin for ages 1-12. Join the adventures in science, sports, crafts, specialized themes & field trips. Half-day, full-day & extended care available.

Summer at Independence 1300 Paper Mill Rd. Newark 302-239-9060 Theindependenceschool.org

DAY Summer at Independence offers choices for age 3 through 8th grade, from theme-based day camps to weekly programs for a variety of interests. Options include Indy Exploratorium, visual & performing arts, Adventure Camp, STEM, academics and sports. Nurse and Extended Day on campus daily.

Summer at Tower Hill 2813 W. 17th St. Wilmington; 302-472-7370 summer@towerhill.org Towerhill.org/summer

DAY Summer at Tower Hill’s Day Camp offers unlimited opportunities for fun and learning for ages 3 - 6th grade, including field trips.

Wilmington Ballet Summer Dance Camp 1709 Gilpin Ave. Wilmington 302-655-1004 info@wilmingtonballet.org Wilmingtonballet.org/ summer-program

DAY Princess camp for ages 3-5 years. Three sessions: July 9-14, July 16-20 and Aug. 6-10. Dance camp featuring ballet, contemporary and musical theatre dance for boys and girls ages 6 and up. Before and after care available. Four one-week sessions: July 9-13, July 16-20, July 23-27, July 30-Aug. 3. Each week will have a theme based on a classical ballet. Prices vary based on age group. See website for more info.

Wilmington Friends School Day Camps 101 School Rd. Wilmington 302-576-2998 lscamp@wilmingtonfriends.org Wilmingtonfriends.org

DAY June 18-Aug. 24: Lower school camp features weekly themes, soccer, tennis, art, STEM design, cooking and adventure camps, plus swimming, ice skating & bowling. Middle school camp offers Base Camp with swimming, fishing, gardening, hiking, ice skating and bowling plus sports camps & programs in art, adventure, sports, STEM, cooking and 3D printing.

Before & after care available. Online registration available — early bird discount! Check online for Open House dates.

OUTLYING AREAS - MARYLAND Easterseals Camp Fairlee 22242 Bay Shore Rd. Chestertown, MD 410-778-0566 fairlee@esdel.org Easterseals.com/de/fairlee

RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL Camp Fairlee provides a traditional summer camp experience for children ages 6+ and adults with various disabilities including developmental, CP, MD, MS, orthopedic impairments and other disabilities. Special Autism weeks with 1:1 counseling. Wall climbing, high ropes, zip lining, pool, canoeing & camp; other activities. Nurse 24/7.

Off-season respite weekends travel trips for adults.

12,000-square-foot activity center, health center, expanded dining hall and four new cabins. ACA SN

Echo Hill Camp 13655 Bloomingneck Rd. Worton, MD 410-348-5303 EchoHillCamp.com

RESIDENTIAL Echo Hill Camp on the Chesapeake Bay is a traditional, sleep-away summer camp with 2- to 8week sessions. Non-competitive, free-choice program.

Waterskiing, sailing, wakeboarding, crabbing, ropes course, nature, art and much more! ACA

Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay Camp Grove Point 2930 Grove Neck Rd. Earleville, MD 302-456-7150 Dlubbers@cbgsc.org Gscb.org/camps

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Camp along the Sassafras River with an all-girl, girl-friendly environment where she’ll learn outdoor skills. Archery, sailing, kayaking, horseback riding. Choose from different themes like water, CSI, Disney, Harry Potter, Explorers and more!

Ages 6-15. No prior Girl Scout experience needed. ACA

Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

JANUARY 2018

CAMP

Get more info at MetroKids’ Super Camp Fair. Jan 28 (see p. 23)

MetroKids.com 21

CAMP 2018

Win It!

Directory

Summer Camps @ Cecil 107 Railroad Ave. Elkton, MD 443-907-1451 learning4life@cecil.edu Cecil.edu/youth

DAY Summer @ Cecil has what you want with awesome summer camp choices for youth ages 5-17.

Camps are offered at Cecil College, Fair Hill, Plumpton Park Zoo and Upper Bay Museum. We offer STEM, photography, theater, art, Legos, Harry Potter, Frozen, Minecraft, robotics, video games, virtual reality and so CIT ACA SN much more!

OUTLYING AREAS - PENNSYLVANIA Darlington Arts Center Summer Camp 977 Shavertown Rd. Garnet Valley, PA 610-358-3632 info@darlingtonarts.org Darlingtonarts.org/camp

DAY, PROGRAM The learning doesn’t stop when school is out! Creative kids ages 3-14 are inspired to keep creating throughout the summer and express themselves through the visual and performing arts.

Music, visual art, dance and drama. The arts are everywhere! Explore all 4 art forms with a different theme each week. Arts-intensive camps are also available. Download a brochure and register online SN (sign up by April 1 and save 10%!)

Science Camp Watonka PO Box 127 Hawley, PA 570-857-1401 mail@watonka.com Watonka.com

RESIDENTIAL For boys 8-16. Camper-selected program includes hands-on laboratory experiences in astronomy, biology, chemistry, computers, electronics, earth science, physics, robotics. A wide range of other activities includes ropes, archery, climbing, woodworking, sailing, rocketry, mini-bike riding, sports, windsurfing & trips. 2-, 4-, 6- & 8-week sessions available. CIT ACA SN OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER

Whale Camp at the Fundy Marine Institute Grand Manan Island New Brunswick, Canada 888-54-WHALE info@whalecamp.com WhaleCamp.com

RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL No other marine science camp offers as many face-to-face encounters to closely observe and study whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and puffins in their own natural habitat. Board our research vessel for unmatched opportunities to observe marine life. Explore beaches, coastal trails and fishing villages on beautiful Grand Manan Island. Ask about our $40,000 college scholarships, STEM projects & college credits.

YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser 201 Cushion Peak Rd. PO Box 147 Wernersville, PA 610-670-2267 SMYMCA.org

RESIDENTIAL We welcome you to our 600 mountain top acres in Berks County, PA. While we offer a variety of session lengths, most campers come for 2- or 4-week sessions. We are a coed program for campers 7-16 years old. Traditional camp programs including horseback riding, swimming, boating, athletics, target sports, mountain biking, creative arts, nature, adventure & teen leadership. We also offer a variety of specialty theme camps, adventure trips and international trips. We can’t wait to see you on the mountain! ACA KEY

Extended hours

Offers financial aid

Part-day or part-week sessions

Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

CAMP

Get more info at MetroKids’ Super Camp Fair. Jan 28 (see p. 23)

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COLD WEATHER,

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Drink up! The Gululu water bottle turns hydration into a game, as kids are presented challenges in which their character can only progress if they consume water. It pinpoints how much H2O your child needs based on weight, age and the climate — and it has sensors that measure water intake, so there’s no cheating! (Gululu; 3+; $79) Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning Jan. 1. Prizes marked with an asterisk (*) must be picked up at the MetroKids office in Center City. Other prizes will be mailed by the provider to the address given on the entry form.

JANUARY 2018

N U F E FRE ole family! wh for the

SUPER CAMP FAIR Philadelphia, Western Suburbs, Main Line

REGISTER NOW! First 100 to register receive a famous stuffed Goodie Bag MetroKids.com/campfair

experience live demonstrations, camp activites and more!

interact with camp directors and staff from over 75 camps!

Sunday, January 28, 2018 • 1-4pm Plymouth Meeting Mall 500 W. Germantown Pike • Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

JANUARY 2018

Agnes Irwin School Agora Cyber Charter School Blue Bell Camp Burn Brae Camp America Day Camp Camp Arrowhead Camp Onas Camp Pathway Camp Pegasus Camp Pembroke Camp Perlman Camp Rim Rock Chincoteague Bay Field Station Dave & Busters Eden Village Camp Elbow Lane Day Camp Elite 300 Soccer Academy Engineering For Kids ESF Camps at NorwoodFontbonne Academy and Chestnut Hill College Fleming Tech Camps Flourtown Summer Day Camp French for Fun Summer Camp (Ecole) French Woods Frog Hollow Racquet Club Fun in the Sun Inc. Future Stars Camps Gan Israel Camps of Greater Philadelphia Germantown Academy Day Camp and Summer Programs Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania Camp Holy Child Academy Independent Lake Camp Lavner Camps Main Line Art Center Summer Art Camp Mercersburg Summer Programs Mermaid Country Day Camp Morey’s Pier Philadelphia Rock Gym Phillies Baseball Academy and Union Soccer Schools Putney Student Travel Riverbend Environmental Education Center Robin Hood Camp Science Explorers, Inc Sesame Day Camp & Camp Rockwood Springside Chestnut Hill Academy Stratford Friends School Summer Music Programs T.E.L.L. Temple University Summer Education Camps The Center on Central and Young Rembrandts The Center School The School in Rose Valley Valley Forge Military Academy Summer Camp Variety Club Camp Westtown Summer Camps William Penn Charter Summer Camp YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser YMCA Camp Tockwogh MetroKids.com 23

Family FamilyFun Fun

In the KNOW

Ice Skate

Indoor Play Places

The weather’s frigid and the kids have cabin fever. Don’t be a couch potato!

Venture out to these indoor hotspots instead. Visit MetroKids.com/indoorfun for a full list of venues, from sports centers to art studios.

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Mid-Atlantic Grand Prix, Wilmington Who is the family’s real road champion?

Find out at this indoor go-kart racetrack, where ages 7 & up go head-to-head on up to six miles of track.

CREATE!

Your Creation Station, Middletown Explore your creative side via walkin canvas-painting and fused-glass workshops, tie-dye and paint-your-own pottery.

PLAY!

Xbos Family Fun Center, Smyrna Treat the kids to a day of play with Adrenaline Zone inflatables, a soft playground, bowling lanes and a toddler area.

Bowl

• AMF Price Lanes, Wilmington • Bowlerama, New Castle • First State Lanes, Wilmington • Lefty’s Alley & Eats, Lewes • Mid-County Bowling & Entertainment Center, Middletown

24 MetroKids.com

Roller Skate • • •

The Delaware Contemporary, Wilmington The center hosts open studio hours on the first Sunday of each month, where kids share their work with peers, get feedback from a professional instructor and make masterpieces. Monthly family workshops introduce new themes and media.

Everyday Artists, Hockessin Budding artists can join paint and storytime classes each Wednesday, in which kids listen to a short story and paint a ceramic piece related to the tale.

The studio also offers canvas-painting workshops for ages 14 & up.

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Pond Ice Arena, Newark UD Ice Arena, Newark Skating Club of Wilmington, Wilmington Dover Skating Center, Dover Christiana Skating Center, Newark Skateworld, Lewes

demos and experiments. Family game nights, lunch-and-learn programs and recycled makerspace activities on select dates round out the fun.

Pump It Up, Newport Whether you try the open jump, basketball bounce, winding slides, ninja jump obstacle course, cyclone blast motion simulator or giant floor games, there’s no shortage of ways to get active.

MOVE!

Dover Skating Center, Dover Glide over to this family-friendly center to enjoy the learn-to-skate program, Family Skate, Teen Night and Homeschool Skate.

There’s also a video-game arcade to keep all ages busy when they need a break from their wheels.

Vince’s Sports Center, Newark Batting cages and an arcade full of competitive games are a slam-dunk with sporty families. The play park, just for little ones, boasts slides, tubes and ball pits.

LEARN!

Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington The museum introduces kids to science, technology, engineering and math through an array of programs and exhibits.

Attend Jr. Engineers and Try Science programs to delve into various careers,

Port Discovery, Baltimore, MD Interactive fun is the mantra at this children’s museum with more than a dozen exhibits. Let the kids climb through a three-story urban treehouse, explore sprawling indoor mazes, learn about healthy eating while “shopping” and solve an ancient Egyptian mystery.

Log on to MetroKids.com/ familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

JANUARY 2018

Family Fun

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event

Editor's Pick

$ = $1-$5; $$ = $6-$10; $$$ = $11-$19; $$$$ = $20 & up

1 Monday

Holidays at Hagley at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. Revel in the last day of the exhibit with Twelfth Night-themed celebrations and activities. $$$ New Year’s Day Celebration at the Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza, Phila. Kick off the year with kindie performances, face painters, Give & Take jugglers, balloon art, mini Broadway performances, organ demos and a hot chocolate lounge. FREE The Philadelphia Mummers Parade from City Hall through South Phila. FREE

2 Tuesday

Let’s Get Moving at the Milton Public Library, Milton. Dance and playtime for toddlers. FREE

5 Friday

Glory of Stories at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington.

Weekly program introduces kids to art via storytime and interactive tours. $

Experiment at the Hagley Museum's Invention Convention in Wilmington, Jan. 13-15.

6 Saturday

Biggs Kids: Giddyup! At the Biggs Museum of American Art, Dover. Make a horse puppet. FREE First Saturday at First State heritage Park, Dover. FREE Intro to 3D Printing Workshop at the Franklin Institute, Phila. All experience levels are welcome. Ages 10 & up. $$$$ Sensory-Friendly Train Morning at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford, PA. Enjoy early access to the venue’s model railroad, featuring O-gauge model trains that run on 2,000 feet of track. FREE

7 Sunday

Money-Saving Sunday at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Take advantage of discounted admission. $ Wonderlandscapes at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Get inspired by painted landscapes and create one of your own. Pay what you wish

CULTURE CLUB Ring in the Year of the Dog early during the Chinese New Year Celebration (Jan. 27) at the Penn Museum in Philly. The China Gallery-centered bash features traditional music and dance, tai chi and tangram workshops, a Shaolin-style kungfu demo, family gallery tours, storytelling and crafts. The fun culminates with the grand-finale Lion Dance Parade.

JANUARY 2018

MetroKids.com 25

Yuletide Tour at the Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, Wilmington. The last day to experience a country estate Christmas with themed trees and period activities. $$$$

10 Wednesday

Girls Who Code at the Kent County Library, Dover. Learn about computer-science technology and coding language that can be used to make websites, games and apps. Bring a laptop. FREE Nature Storytime at Trap Pond State Park, Laurel. FREE

11 Thursday

Nature Explorers at Brandywine Creek State Park, Wilmington. Discover the significance of Groundhog Day. $ Stages of Discovery: Maddog & Me at the Baby Grand, Wilmington. With a mix of world tales and personal stories about growing up in a “rough” neighborhood, award-winning educator Dr. David Gonzalez offers insights for cultivating compassion in the community. $$

13 Saturday

Invention Convention at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. Dig into the world of insects and how they inspire technology during activities such as science shows, investigating the inner-workings of electronic gadgets and making your own invention. $$$ Madagascar: A Musical Adventure at the Delaware Children’s Theatre, Wilmington. Through Feb. 4. $$$ Night at the Museum: Dinos After Dark at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Enjoy games, animal presentations and exhibits, and pick a fossil to take home. $$$$ Second Saturday at the Penn Museum, Phila. Scavenger hunts, tours and crafts focus on music around the world. $$$

14 Sunday

Family Sunday: The Content of Our Character at the Delaware Contemporary, Wilmington. Art unites with the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. during this workshop. FREE Intro to 3D Printing Workshop at the Franklin Institute, Phila.

See Jan. 6. $$$$ Invention Convention at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. See Jan. 13. $$$ Sunday Studio: Travel the USA at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. Themed activities teach families new techniques and media. FREE

15 Monday

Barnes Woods Winter Hike at Trap Pond State Park, Laurel. $

Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Families sort supplies to be distributed to local schools, watch students perform MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech and experience an interactive show about his legacy. $ Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Make art to be distributed by MANA. Pay what you wish MLK Day Camp at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. Crafts, stories and activities teach kids how to be better animal ambassadors. $$$$ School Day-Off Camp at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Kids keep busy with games and crafts. $$$$

16 Tuesday

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration at the North Wilmington Library, Wilmington. Learn about his life and legacy via stories and songs. FREE

20 Saturday

Camp-In at the Franklin Institute, Phila. This slumber party features a live astronomy show, exhibit exploration, telescope viewing and spacey activities. $$$$ Night at the Museum & Star Party at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Discover facts about deep space, explore the exhibits and see what you can find in the sky alongside members of the Delaware Astronomical Society. $$ Princess and Pirate Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila.

Costumes encouraged. FREE

24 Wednesday

Animals in Winter Program at the Brandywine Hundred Library, Wilmington. Explore the techniques that critters use to stay safe in the cold. FREE

26 Friday

Camp-In at the Franklin Institute, Phila. See Jan. 20. $$$$ Winter Owl Prowl at Trap Pond State Park, Laurel. Set out on a hike to search for the creatures. $ Zombie Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. Costumes encouraged. FREE

27 Saturday

Chinese New Year Celebration at the Penn Museum, Phila. See “Culture Club,” p. 25. $$$ Groundhog Day Family Festival at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Phila. Join Tinicum Tim for festivities that include music, themed games, crafts and guided walks. FREE

Invention Convention at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. See Jan. 13. $$$

Indoor Campout at Tyler Arboretum, Media, PA. After you pitch a tent on the barn loft, roast food over the campfire and take a night hike. $$$$

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. Activities include gallery tours and art projects. FREE

Science Saturday: Trophy Triathlon at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. Learn about the importance of foundations and structural loads by building a trophy that supports a ball. $$$

Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila. Mark the occasion with family-friendly performances, arts & crafts and spotlight talks about social justice. $$$

Starry Night Hike at Brandywine Creek State Park, Wilmington. $

26 MetroKids.com

JANUARY 2018

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JANUARY 2018

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Family Fun Town & County: First Day Hikes

SUPER CAMP FAIR Philadelphia, Western Suburbs, Main Line

MK On the Scene

We may be in the throes of winter, but camp season is just around the corner! Make sure you’re prepared: Don’t miss MetroKids’ 10th Annual Super Camp Fair at Plymouth Meeting, PA's Plymouth Meeting Mall on Jan. 28 from 1-4pm.

With directors and staff members from more than 75 day, specialty and overnight camps on-site to answer questions, conduct demos and lead activities, finding the right camp for your kid is fun and easy.

Come meet the MK crew, enter to win prizes and promotions and, if you’re among the first 100 to pre-register at MetroKids.com/ campfair, you’ll score a goodie bag, too.

Winter Waterfowl Program at Trap Pond State Park, Laurel. Walk along the pond to search for waterfowl. Binoculars provided. $

28 Sunday

MetroKids’ 10th Annual Super Camp Fair at the Plymouth Meeting Mall, Plymouth Meeting, PA. See “MK On the Scene,” above. FREE

31 Wednesday

Full Moon Hike at Bellevue State Park, Wilmington. $

Start the new year off on the right foot! Whether you want to get active or spend time as a family, the First State, First Day, First Hike program at local trails is the perfect opportunity.

KENT COUNTY Take in scenic, panoramic views of the Pondside Nature Trail during a 2.8-mile hike at Felton’s Killens Pond State Park.

NEW CASTLE COUNTY Get moving in Wilmington during Alapocas Run State Park’s 3.5-mile hike along the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail; Bellevue State Park’s mostly paved, stroller-friendly trek; and Brandywine Creek State Park’s 2.5-mile stroll through woods and meadows. Be on the lookout for critters at Lums Pond State Park’s easy, 1.5-mile hike in Bear, and families can opt for a self-guided hike at White Clay Creek State Park in Newark.

SUSSEX COUNTY Learn about local history while you hike the Fort Miles Pinelands at Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes; and check out a variety of crops during an easy, 2-mile hike at Laurel’s Trap Pond State Park.

Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

What are you looking for?

Places to VISIT

Find them in our ONLINE Attraction Directory!

MetroKids.com/PlacesToVisit 28 MetroKids.com

JANUARY 2018

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Early Education Directory DAY CARE

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PREK

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KINDERGARTEN

FY: Full Year AY: Academic Year SP: Summer Program MP: Meals Provided BS: Before School

AS: After School DA: Diapers Accepted TP: Transportation Provided SN: Special Needs DHS*: Licensed: Dept. of Health & Human Services

DE: Licensed: Dept. of Education DYF: Licensed: Dept. of Youth & Family Serv.

DE ★: Delaware Stars Participant NAEYC: Accredited by National Association of Education of Young Children

MULTIPLE SITES KIDZ, INK ACADEMY OF EARLY ACADEMICS 1 Songsmith Dr., Bear, DE • 302-838-1500 1703 Porter Rd., Bear, DE • 302-838-5400 345 School Bell Rd., Bear, DE • 302-327-0686 645 W. North St., Dover, DE • 302-730-4730 616 W. Glenwood Ave., Smyrna, DE • 302-653-4034 KidzEarlyLearning.com • Ages: 6 wks.-11 yrs. • Hours: 6am-6:30pm Our curriculum is designed to stimulate your child’s mind, strengthen their bodies, and nurture their hearts. National curriculum: core knowledge. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack.

Spanish degreed and experienced teachers, security cameras monitor every room. FY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, DE, DYF, DA, DE ★ LITTLE STARS INC. 5702 Kirkwood Hwy., Wilmington, DE • 302-995-2920 947 Old Harmony Rd., Newark, DE • 302-737-9759 littlestarsinc.com • Ages: 6 wks.-12 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6pm Come Join the Fun here at Little Stars. Two locations serving children 6 wks. to 12 yrs. Full day.

Family-owned & operated. Warm, qualified staff teaches basic education concepts. Pre-school for ages 3 & 4. First aid & CPR. Breakfast, lunch & snack. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DYF YMCA OF DELAWARE 100 W. 10th St., Ste. 1100, Wilmington, DE 302-221-9622 • www.ymcade.org • Ages: 6 wks.-13 yrs.

Largest children’s programming provider in the state. We offer full-day care, pre-school and before- and after-school care. Call the branch nearest you for specific details: Bear-Glasgow, 302-836-9622, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Brandywine, 302-478-9622, half-day preschool, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Central, 302-254-9622, full-day preschool, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Sussex, 302-296-9622, half-day preschool, extended care, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Dover, 302-346-9622, before and after care, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Walnut St., 302-472-9622, full-day preschool, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Western, 302-453-0123, full-day preschool, before and after care, BS, AS, SP, DE ★

BEAR, NEW CASTLE COUNTY GREAT NEW BEGINNINGS OF ST. ANDREWS Independently Owned & Operated 14 St. Andrews Rd., Bear, DE • 302-838-1000 GNBKids.com • Ages: 8 wks.-School Age • Hours: 6:30am-6pm Serving children 8 weeks through 12 years old. Family-owned and operated since 1999. Staff certified through Dept. of Education. Internet viewing available. Nutritional breakfast, snack and lunch program provided daily. Delaware STARS level 5. Panic Button Security System. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, DYF, SN, DE, DE ★, NAEYC

HOCKESSIN, NEW CASTLE COUNTY CACC MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1313 Little Baltimore Rd., Hockessin, DE 19707 302-239-2917 • www.caccmont.org • Ages: 3 mos. to K • Hours: 7am-6pm Our Montessori child-directed program provides a low student/teacher ratio and individualized instruction. Our Enrichments include Library, Art, Gym (Zumba & Yoga), Music, Technology, Gardening and Spanish & Chinese instruction. AY, SP, BS/AS, DA, DYF, AMS THE HOCKESSIN MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1000 Old Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707 302-234-1240 • www.TheHMS.org • Ages: 12 months - 8th grade • Hours: 8am-3pm The school program follows the Montessori Method and emphasizes mathematics, language, humanities, arts and sciences while stressing life skills. All levels participate in enrichment subjects including STEM, art, library, computers, Spanish, music and physical education, which are developmentally appropriate for the age and ability. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, PAIS, AMS

MIDDLETOWN, NEW CASTLE COUNTY ST. ANNE’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL — EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAM 211 Silver Lake Road, Middletown, DE 19709 • 302-378-3179 ext.1 • www.StAnnesDE.org Ages: 3 yrs.-Grade 8 • Hours: 8am-3:15pm; Extended Care: 7am-6pm From Preschool through 8th grade our programs lay the foundation for intellectual growth, moral judgment, leadership, and confidence. Our passionate faculty embraces a progressive child-centered teaching philosophy. Art, music, STEM, Spanish, library, religion, outdoor play.

Member of the National Association of Independent Schools and the National Association of Episcopal Schools. AY, SP, BS/AS, TP, MSA, DE ★

JANUARY 2018

PAIS: Accredited by PA Assoc. of Independent Schools MSCES: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools AMS: Accredited by American Montessori Society MSA: Middle States Association of Shools & Colleges

NEW CASTLE, NEW CASTLE COUNTY HELPING HANDS FAMILY CHILDCARE 4 Capo Ln., New Castle, DE 19720 302-836-4748 • www.HelpingHandsFamilyChildcare.com • Ages: 6 wks. – 5 yrs.

Hours: 7am-5:30pm Delaware 4 Stars facility, a warm hearted Christian environment where “Learning Begins At the Door” and PLAY is our main focus. Children participate in daily sing-a -longs, playing musical instruments, dramatic play, arts and crafts, designed for their age and abilities. POC Accepted. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, SN, DE ★

NEWARK, NEW CASTLE COUNTY EBENEZER PRESCHOOL 525 Polly Drummond Hill Rd., Newark, DE 19711 302-731-3030 • www.ebenezerumcpreschool.org • Ages: 2-4 yrs. • Hours: 9am-12pm Since 1965 we have been providing children with a loving environment which guides their physical, emotional , spiritual and social development. We prepare the child for further learning experiences and for entrance into kindergarten. We welcome children of all faiths while teaching Christ-like ideals. AY, SP, MP, DA, SN, DYF EDU-CARE PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE 345 Polly Drummond Hill Rd., Newark, DE 19711 302-453-7326 • www.educarepreschool.com • Ages: 6 wks. -12 yrs.

Hours: 6:30am-6pm Edu-Care provides both a nurturing and academic atmosphere. We offer a variety of scheduling options. Feel free to stop in at any time for a tour or contact us for more information. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DHS*, DE, DE ★ NEWARK DAY NURSERY AND CHILDREN’S CENTER 921 Barksdale Rd., Newark, DE 302-731-4925 • Ages: 6 wks.-14 yrs. • Hours: 6:45am-6pm NAEYC Accredited & DE Stars Level 5. Dedicated to educating, enriching and inspiring children. Highly trained, professional, and experienced teachers, providing a quality program in a warm, family-friendly environment. Developmentally appropriate activities, computers, and separate toddler, preschool and school-age playgrounds provided. POC Accepted. Offers Financial aid in the form of a sliding fee scale. FY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, DYF, NAEYC, DE ★ ONE STEP AHEAD CHILD CARE AND PRESCHOOL, INC. 432 Salem Church Rd., Newark, DE 302-292-1162 • Ages: 1 yr.-12 yrs. • Hours: 7am-6pm Devoted, skilled staff assist your child with age-appropriate weekly themed curriculum to enhance their self-esteem and love of learning. All staff CPR and First Aid certified. All teachers are Board of Education certified. Spacious indoor and outdoor play areas.

Secured premises. All classrooms video monitored. Breakfast, lunch and snacks. Full-time and part-time options. Before- and after-school programs serving Thurgood Marshall and McVey School. Sibling discount. Summer camp with weekly field trips. FY, AY, SP, BA, AS, DA, DHS* SUPER KIDS PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN 1411 Old Baltimore Pike, Newark, DE 302-453-9373 • Ages: 6 wks. -K; aftercare thru 3rd grade • Hours: 6:30am-6pm Offering foreign language, computers, age-appropriate, interactive, full-scope academic curriculum. Nurturing atmosphere. Large playground. Summer session runs from June until Labor Day and includes academic review, fun activities and field trips. Licensed staff and faculty.

Insured. Nature Centers. FY, AY, SP, DYF, BS/AS

NORTH WILMINGTON, NEW CASTLE COUNTY CHILDREN’S HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 2848 Grubb Rd. (at Naaman’s Rd.) Wilmington, DE • 302-529-9259 • ChildrensHouse-de.org info@childrenshouse-de.org • Ages: 15 mos.-Grade 3 • Hours: 7am-6pm Open 7am to 6pm educating children from 15 months through third grade. Montessori certified teachers. Part time/full time schedules 2-5 days a week for the school year. Summer camp also available. Special classes include: Spanish, music, movement & technology. School Tours every Wednesday (9-11am). AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DE, DE ★

NORTH WILMINGTON, NEW CASTLE COUNTY SAINT EDMOND’S ACADEMY 2120 Veale Rd., Wilmington, DE 302-475-5370 • Stedmondsacademy.org Ages: Pre-K (age 4) through Grade 8 (age 14) Hours: 7:40am (with Before Care Avail. at 7am)-2:45pm (w/ After Care Avail. until 6pm) The Academy educates boys’ hearts and minds in the Holy Cross tradition. Core values of responsibility, independence, positive self-image, integrity and community are integrated with an innovative curriculum. SEA is a special place for young learners to grow. AY, BS, AS, MP (lunch)

MetroKids.com 29

Early Education Directory DAY CARE

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KINDERGARTEN

PIKE CREEK, NEW CASTLE COUNTY

WILMINGTON, NEW CASTLE COUNTY (continued)

INDEPENDENCE SCHOOL, THE 1300 Paper Mill Rd. Newark, DE 302-239-0332 • TheIndependenceSchool.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-K – Hours: 7am-6pm Early Childhood is the first step of the exceptional Independence School Education. Children engage in developmentally appropriate learning experiences which contribute to their social, emotional and intellectual development. All faculty hold bachelor’s degrees in education with specific expertise in early childhood education. Full-time nurse on campus. AY, SP, BS, AS, DE, MSCES

ST. MICHAEL’S SCHOOL AND NURSERY 700 N. Walnut St., Wilmington, DE 302-656-3389 • www.stmichaelsde.org • Ages: 8wks-kindergarten • Hours: 7am -5:30 pm A 5-star rated early childhood facility offering excellent care and edcatisince 1890. Vouchers accepted. Financial aid available to qualified families. Dedicated to the whole child, providing rich educational opportunities that address cognitive, physical, language and social-emotional development. Top-notch facilities include spacious outdoor spaces, a library and cafeteria serving breakfast and lunch. We are proud of our diverse community, our history of serving the most vulnerable and the richness of the experience we offer. FY, MP, DA, DHS, DE, DYF, DE ★

WILMINGTON, NEW CASTLE COUNTY CONCORD PRESCHOOL AND CHILDCARE 1800 Fairfax Blvd., Wilmington, DE 302-654-9629 • www.concordpreschoolandchildcare.com Ages: 1 yr.- 9 • Hours: 7:15am-5:45pm Our small class sizes enable valuable one-on-one instruction. Caring teachers and rich curriculum including Computer Tots, Spanish, Music and Gym. Serving ages 1 year through Kindergarten. Summer to age 9. FT, PT, Extended, 7:15am-5:45pm. Founded in 1956. Financial aid, Parent volunteer opportunities available. FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS* HARVEST CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2205 Lancaster Ave., Wilmington, DE • 302-654-2313 • www.harvestchrstianacademy.org • Ages: 6wks-grade 6 • Hours: 6:30am-6pm Description: Little ones infant – preschool will enjoy faith, fun and fellowship at our beautiful center. We provide nutritious meals, transportation for ages 3+ and a safe, loving atmosphere.

Enclosed playground. Excellent curriculum from A Beka. Also, day academy for K-6th. Call to schedule a tour. FY AY SP MP BS AS DA TP DE INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI SCHOOLS, WILMINGTON CAMPUS One Middleton Drive, Wilmington, DE 19808 302-235-2554 imschools.net Ages: 6 wks. - 6 yrs. Hours: 7am-5:30pm Built upon a strong foundation of respect, IMSchools, Wilmington Campus, in accord with authentic Montessori methodology, embraces and celebrates the uniqueness of each child’s spirit and learning style. Fully certified Montessori teachers offer the richest experiences for children from 6 weeks through 6 years to ensure the healthiest of development and achievement of academic excellence. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS*, DE SAINT ANTHONY OF PADUA GRADE SCHOOL 1715 W. Ninth St. Wilmington DE 302-421-3743 • www.school.stanthonynet.org • Ages: prek3-8th grade Hours: 7:30am-3pm Preschool 3 and 4 year olds through Eighth Grade (faith-based curriculum). Middle States Accredited. Before care and after care provided. Full-service cafeteria. State of the Art Science and Computer Labs. AY MP BS AS ST. DAVID’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 2320 Grubb Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810 302-475-3747 • www.stdavidsdayschoolde.org • stdavidskidsde@outlook.com Ages: 2,3, & 4 (must have reached age by August 31 if starting school in September) Hours: Preschool 9-12; Full day 7:30 – 5:45; 2, 3 or 5 day options A St. David’s Episcopal Church outreach, conveniently located in Brandywine Hundred. Developmental Movement class daily, developmentally appropriate curriculum. 2 playgrounds, weekly chapel services. Staff certified CPR & First Aid. Some financial aid . Preschool 9am-12pm; Full day 7:30-5:45; 2, 3 or 5 day options. POC and credit cards accepted. Parent volunteer opportunitites and financial aid available. FY, AY, SP, BS/AS, DA, TP, SN, DHS*, DYF, NAEYC, PAIS, MSCES, AMS

TOWER HILL SCHOOL 2813 W. 17th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806 302-575-0550 • www.towerhill.org • Ages: Age 3-Grade 12 • Hours: 8am -2:40 pm Tower Hill’s preschool provides young learners with a quality education in a warm and supportive environment. Understanding that children gain knowledge through play, nurturing teachers emphasize engaging activities that allow students to explore, experiment and discover the world around them. AY, SP, MP, BS/AS, MSCES URSULINE ACADEMY 1106 Pennsylvania Ave., Wilmington, DE 302-658-7158 • Ursuline.org • Ages 3-5 • Hours: 8am-2:45pm Our Early Childhood Programs are unique from any other school by offering two paths to First Grade: Pre-Kindergarten/ Kindergarten & Montessori. Children develop social consciousness by responding to personal, community, & global needs, and by becoming true models of Serviam through Christian love. Full & Half Day/Week Options. AY, SP, BS, AS, TP, DAIS, ADVIS, NAIS WILMINGTON FRIENDS SCHOOL EARLY LEARNING CENTER 101 School Road, Wilmington, DE 302-576-2930 • Ages: 2 yrs.-4 yrs. • Hours: 7:30am-6pm WFS ELEC offers experiences to stimulate intellectual, emotional, and social development.

The program is guided, in the Quaker tradition, by values of respect for each individual and responsibility as members of a community. AY, SP, BS, AF, DA, MSCES WILMINGTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1400 Harvey Rd., Wilmington, DE 302-475-0555 • wmsde.org • admissions@wmsde.org Ages: 12 mos.-12 yrs. • Hours: 7am-6pm Students follow their passions, discover initiative from within and take ownership of their learning; a place that embraces the power of technology for teaching, exploring, engaging and collaborating. With a diverse student body and a challenging curriculum that promotes mutual respect and a global perspective, WMS graduates are prepared to move fearlessly into the world. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DYF, NAEYC, DE ★, AMS

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DAYCARE

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JANUARY 2018

NOTICE: NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

In accordance with IRS regulations, all ADVIS member schools adhere to and support the following “Statement of Nondiscrimination as to Student Enrollment” as the fundamental position they advocate. For information regarding a specific school’s nondiscrimination policy, please contact the school directly. The following schools admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students of these schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of their educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

ADVIS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization comprised of 132 independent schools in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and Delaware.

Abington Friends School Academy of Notre Dame de Namur The Academy of the New Church The Agnes Irwin School AIM Academy Ancillae-Assumpta Academy Archmere Academy ATG Learning Academy The Baldwin School Benchmark School Bryn Athyn Church School Buckingham Friends School Cambridge School Center School Centreville Layton School Christina Seix Academy Church Farm School Community Partnership School Cornerstone Christian Academy The Crefeld School Delaware County Christian School Delaware Valley Friends School Devon Preparatory School Doane Academy Dock Mennonite Academy The Episcopal Academy Frankford Friends School French International School of Philadelphia Friends’ Central School Friends School Haverford Friends School Mullica Hill Friends Select School George School Germantown Academy Germantown Friends School Gesu School Girard College Gladwyne Montessori Goshen Friends School The Grayson School Greene Street Friends School Greene Towne Montessori School Grey Nun Academy Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School Gwynedd-Mercy Academy Elementary

Harrisburg Academy The Haverford School The Hill School Hill Top Preparatory School The Hillside School The Hockessin Montessori School Holy Child Academy Holy Child School at Rosemont Holy Ghost Preparatory School The Hun School of Princeton The Independence School Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy The Janus School The Jefferson School Kimberton Waldorf School Kohelet Yeshiva High School La Salle College High School Lancaster Country Day School Lansdowne Friends School The Lawrenceville School Linden Hall Malvern Preparatory School The Meadowbrook School Media-Providence Friends School Merion Mercy Academy MileStone Academy The Miquon School The Montessori School Montgomery School Moorestown Friends School Moravian Academy Mount Saint Joseph Academy The New School of Lancaster Newtown Friends School Norwood-Fontbonne Academy Orchard Friends School Peddie School The Pennington School The Pennsylvania School for the Deaf The Perkiomen School The Phelps School The Philadelphia School The Pilot School Plymouth Meeting Friends School Princeton Day School Princeton Friends School

Project Learn School The Quaker School at Horsham Raymond & Ruth Perelman Jewish Day School Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr St. Andrew’s School Saint Basil Academy St. Edmond’s Academy St. James School St. Peter’s School Sanford School The School in Rose Valley The Shipley School Solebury School Springdale Preparatory School Springside Chestnut Hill Academy Stratford Friends School The Swain School The Tatnall School Tower Hill School Twin Spring Farm Educational Impressions United Friends School Upland Country Day School Ursuline Academy Valley Forge Military Academy & College The Vanguard School, A Program of Valley Forge Educational Services Villa Maria Academy High School The Walden School The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Waldron Mercy Academy West Chester Friends School West Nottingham Academy Westfield Friends School Westtown School William Penn Charter School Wilmington Friends School Wilmington Montessori School Woodlynde School The Wyndcroft School Wyoming Seminary College Preparatory School York Country Day School YSC Academy

Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools Finding the Right School Just Got Easier! Visit our Website and use the FREE Search Tool.

Website: www.advis.org · Follow us on Twitter@advischools

presented by Agilent Technologies January 13, 14, & 15, 2018 • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

INSECTS! Learn how insects help us tackle everyday problems, inspire new technologies, help detectives solve mysteries, and play an important role in our food industry.

hands-oens! a ct i v i t i differentshows science ay! every d Create ntion! a n i n ve Tinkering Tables!

Earn a patent! ha g l e y

Enjoy hands-on activities, learn fun facts about insects, and meet local scientists who study insects.

Free for Hagley members and children 3 and under $8 for adults • $6 for children ages 4-14 Use Hagley’s Buck Road East entrance off Route 100 in Wilmington, Delaware.

Visit www.hagley.org for show schedules and information.

WILMINGTON, DELAWARE • (302) 658-2400 • WWW.HAGLEY.ORG