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February 2019 | FREE

Smart. Local. Parenting.

DIVERSITY Religious Schools for All Faiths • Montessori Keeps It Simple Multicultural Tours • Kid-free Getaway Friends with ADHD

Inclusive Camps • 2019 Camp Directory

Discover How A Montessori Education fosters independent learners equipped for successful, happy, fulfilled lives in the 21st Century.

Photo courtesy of Hockessin Montessori School

Photo courtesy of Montessori Academy at Christina

Photo courtesy of Hockessin Montessori School

Visit our schools on the web to learn about our upcoming open houses or schedule a private tour!

CACC Montessori School Hockessin www.caccmont.org 3 months - Kindergarten 302-239-2917

Montessori Learning Centre Wilmington www.montessorilc.com 2 years - Kindergarten 302-478-7114

Children’s House Montessori School Wilmington www.childrenshouse-de.org 15 months - Kindergarten 302-529-9259

Montessori Academies at Christina (Christina School District) Wilmington www.christinak12.org/MAC 3 years - 6th grade 302-552-2665

First State Montessori Academy Wilmington www.firstatemontessori.org Kindergarten - 8th Grade 302-576-1500 International Montessori Schools At Wilmington, DE & West Chester, PA www.imschools.net 6 weeks - 6 years 302-235-2554

Newark Montessori Preschool www.newarkmontessori.org 2 years - Kindergarten 302-366-1481 The Hockessin Montessori School www.TheHMS.org 12 months - 8th grade 302-234-1240

PLAN A VISIT TO A MONTESSORI SCHOOL NEAR YOU.

Be sure to check out our listed websites for open house and school tour dates & times

COMING IN 2019: (Watch our website for details) FREE Parent Lecture • Thursday, October 3, 2019 Annual Montessori Teacher Workshop • Friday, October 4, 2019 Topic: Addressing Challenging Behaviors at home and in our classrooms

Ursuline Academy Wilmington www.ursuline.org 3 years - Kindergarten (Montessori program) 3 years - 12th grade (traditional program) 302-658-7158 Wilmington Montessori School www.wmsde.org 12 months - 8th grade 302-475-0555

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FEBRUARY 2019 Vol. 30, No. 2

Camp 2019 12 LGBTQ Campers Welcome 14 2019 Camp Directory

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In This Issue 4 Montessori: The Gift of Simple 5 Win It! 6 Religious Schools for All Faiths 8 Guide to Dental Insurance 10 Kid-free Getaways 11 Friends with ADHD

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Family Fun 20 Day-by-Day Calendar 23 Take a Diversity Tour

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Ad Sections

3 Events; 7 Education; 9 Health 13 Camp; 18 Child Care

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American Sound: THe Evolution of Black Music Saturday, February 2 10:30 a.m.

Walnut Street YMCA 1000 North Walnut Street, Wilmington

Live Performances | Reception to follow RSVP at newcastlede.gov/specialevents

FREE FAMILY PROGRAM Find more free Black History Month programs at you Library at newcastlede.gov/happenings County Executive Matthew Meyer Department of Community Services Division of Community Resources

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Moms Know

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Gift of Simple How to use Montessori’s simplicity approach at home

By Olynda Smith Think about how you feel when your home is a mess — unmade beds, toys strewn everywhere, dust on the floors, grimy dishes in the sink. Compare that to when your home is clean and tidy, with everything in its place. Does one scenario create stressful feelings, while the other makes you calm and settled? Even if we don’t consciously realize it, our environment affects us.

Children are no exception and are more sensitive to what’s around them than adults.

We Montessorians take this to heart and believe that the student, the teacher, and the environment work together to form a “learning triangle.” We believe that when an environment is set up appropriately, it can help a child develop independence, coordination, concentration and an internal sense of order, as well as support well-being and social and academic achievement.

Montessori teachers take great care in the preparation of their classroom environments, guided, in large part, by the idea of simplicity. Everything in the classroom has a purpose and a place where it rests when it is not in use. There is an intuitive sense of order that makes it easy

for children to navigate the space and to clean up after themselves successfully. At home, a simple environment can support your child’s concentration, curiosity and sense of calm.

Here are a few guidelines.

Less is more

Children have a chance to enjoy what they have when there is less of it around.

When you tuck away half of the toys (in a closet, garage, or other storage space), you may find children become more interested in what is on the shelves. This leads to longer periods of concentration, easier cleanup, greater independence, and less tension among family members about messy spaces. Think about quality rather than quantity.

Practice letting go

Paring down may be easier than you think. Regularly throw away toys that break and donate gently used ones that your child has outgrown. If you do this with your own belongings in your child’s presence, you can model non-attachment. Practice this on a regular basis with your child; you may find that letting go becomes normal behavior.

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FEBRUARY 2019

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Kids with a sweet tooth and a competitive side will love Pete the Cat’s Missing Cupcake Game. Players collect treats, sing songs, act out physical activities and identify favorite animals and food, all while they work together to rescue goodies from Grumpy Toad. (Briar Patch; 3+; $19.99)

More dessert? Yes, please! The (inedible) Smart Snacks Shape-Sorting Cupcakes set helps develop kids’ shape and color recognition and fine-motor skills.

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Education

Religion Aside Why some families choose faith-based schools that aren’t their faith

By Michele Haddon Don’t write off a faith-based school just because your family is not a member of that religion. Local families say they have found success for their children in schools that are outside their own religious or non-religious views.

Right fit, regardless of faith

Katie P., a mother of three boys in Doylestown, PA, said while she isn’t Christian, she enrolled her sons at The Preschool at Doylestown United Methodist Church.

She says she wouldn’t have considered a faith-based school if it hadn’t been for a recommendation from her oldest son’s physical therapist, who described the school as play-based and not too academic, but able to prepare a child for kindergarten and accommodate students with developmental delays.

“After touring it, I really loved the feel of it and the staff,” Katie says. “After looking at about a dozen other programs, price became an issue, as well as a schedule that fit our needs.

“Preschool is very important to us and I wanted my kids to have that experience, but almost all the non-church programs were very, very expensive.”

Andrea S., of Wilmington, DE, considers herself non-denominational but her son attends kindergarten at St. Edmond’s Academy, a Catholic school in Wilmington.

“I love the small class size and the curriculum,” she says. “I like that my son takes Spanish almost every day. He also gets art, music, library and gym. They have reading interventionists at the school to help kids who are behind in reading.”

Trish C., of Levittown, PA, calls herself a “non-practicing” Catholic. She explains how, in their search for a PreK program, they chose Hope Lutheran School in Levittown, which offers a Christian education for children through 8th grade.

“The school was overall the cleanest, had the nicest teachers and the best curriculum for children our son’s age,” she says.

“We are really happy with the academics. He is already learning and reading at a kindergarten level.”

Meghan C. is Catholic, but enrolled her children at Siegel Jewish Community Center’s Early Education Center in Wilmington, DE. “We adore the staff, the curriculum and the campus setup — swim lessons year round, library, different room for music, access to the full gym, and full playground,” she says. “The Jewish traditions they learn are all based on faith and love, so we don’t mind that we are Catholic.

“We joke that they are starting with the Old Testament.”

Supports a child’s special needs

Katie P. and Andrea S. say it was vital to find a school that knew how to work with their children’s developmental delays.

Katie says they needed a school that would welcome outside support services to help with her son’s issues with social, attention and motor skills.

“Not only was the school receptive and helpful with working with the therapists, the teachers attended our meetings and did

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their best to follow his individualized plan,” she says.

Andrea was concerned the public schools in her area were ill-equipped to handle her son’s behavioral issues.

“St. Edmonds has worked with me on his behaviors,” she says, as well as with her son’s therapist to come up with strategies to help him.

Faith as a family lesson

Faith-based schools come with an integration of a particular religion’s values and traditions.

How do parents of different backgrounds handle this exposure?

Denise Lewis, principal of Our Lady of Grace School in Penndel, PA, said families are told their children will learn about the Catholic faith.

All students participate in prayer services and while attendance at mass is required, Lewis said she has never received a request to opt out in her 13 years with the school.

“They (non-Catholic students) learn about the sacraments, but they don’t receive those sacraments with us. When we do ashes, they get ashes, but they don’t receive communion,” she noted.

A similar approach to mass and sacraments is taken at St. Mary of the Lakes School in Medford, NJ. “For non-Catholic students, the focus is on deepening personal relationships and developing a greater understanding of different faiths,” says Cathy Bjorklund, director of admissions and advancement. “Our school does not try to convert students of other denominations.”

For Katie, to have her children learn about Christian traditions, through prayer and chapel lessons, opened an opportunity to expand on those discussions at home.

“It took us a while to figure out how to handle it,” she says.

“We do want our kids to have exposure and understanding of different religions, so over the preschool years we took the lessons they learned at school as a starting point to say, ‘This is what some people believe’ and added to it with what others believe and what Steve (her husband) and I happen to believe.”

Shu Shu Costa, director of admissions and financial aid at Moorestown Friends School in Moorestown, NJ, says that while her school weaves Quaker values into the academic routines, they strive to make every student feel welcome.

Only about 3 percent of the school’s student population is Quaker, according to Costa.

“We also have people who come from families who are agnostic or atheists, who don’t even believe in God, and yet feel comfortable here,” Costa says. “There is a joy in a community that celebrates each of us no matter who we are.

“We’re not here to make new Quakers.”

Michele Haddon is a Doylestown, PA-based freelance writer.

FEBRUARY 2019

Camp Firefly At Red Lion Ages 3 years old through 6th Grade

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Health

Tooth Decisions Should you pay for dental insurance at work? Buy your own? Pay out of pocket?

Here’s how to keep costs from taking too big a bite.

By Suzanne Koup-Larsen When 8-year-old Arya fell off her bike and knocked out her front two teeth, roots and all, her Glenmoore, PA parents rushed her to a pediatric dentist, who was able to re-implant her teeth. Even with dental insurance, though, her family paid nearly $1,000 out of pocket. “Overall, we’re happy with our dental insurance,” says her mom Lindsay, who noted that follow-up visits have been covered. “But it’s frustrating that we had to pay that much out of pocket.”

Insurance of all types protects you in a worst-case scenario. For health insurance, the potential risk is so high that you can’t afford to go uninsured, but with dental insurance, the potential risk is not as high, leaving consumers to wonder if it’s worth the cost. Because unexpected dental treatments can be expensive, dental professionals recommend carrying dental insurance when possible.

Employee benefits

Consumer Reports recommends families get dental insurance through an employer if it’s available. “Because it’s not very expensive, it’s kind of silly not to,” says Donna Rosato, senior money editor.

In fact, many employers will cover half of the cost of plan premiums.

“Dental insurance is pretty cut and dry, meaning they cover exactly what is listed,” says Franklin T. Pyle, director of the Delaware Insurance Department. Most plans provide 100-80-50 coverage: • 100 percent coverage of preventative care such as exams, cleanings, x-rays and, perhaps, fluoride treatments and sealants • 80 percent coverage of basic treatments like fillings • 50 percent coverage of complicated procedures, such as crowns Unlike medical plans, many dental plans cap benefits at $1,500 a year per person. However, as Dr. Joseph Kelly, DDS, president of the Delaware State Dental Society points out, all plans are different. “There is variability to the plans,” he says, so be sure to verify your coverage with your provider.

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Dentists will typically work with families to investigate what your insurer will cover. Call your provider to see what you can expect in terms of co-pays and coverage. “Dentists don’t want surprises for the patient either,” says Kelly.

Affordable Care Act Exchanges

• Parents who get ACA medical coverage have the option to purchase a dental plan through the exchange as well.

• Unlike medical insurance, parents will not pay a penalty if they don’t purchase it.

• Covers kids until age 19.

Private dental insurance

• Only 4 percent of Americans have private dental insurance.

• Private insurance is often very expensive.

• There are often waiting periods before you qualify for certain services, such as root canals.

Public options

• Parents without dental insurance may be able to insure their children through Medicaid or CHIP if they meet income eligibility.

Discount plans

• Pay an annual fee of up to $200.

• Dentists who participate in the plan offer discounts of up to 50 percent for members.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are also an option, says Dr. James Nickman, DDS, president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. These plans allow you to set aside pre-tax income for health expenses like dental work. However, there may be restrictions on the timing and what procedures qualify.

general, I’d say it’s not worth the risk to choose to be without dental insurance,” says Nickman. But if you find yourself without dental insurance, prevention is key, he says. Brush, floss and visit the dentist regularly.

“We strongly encourage families to have their children seen early and often for preventative care,” he says. “It is far more cost effective this way than dealing crisis to crisis.”

If you don’t have insurance, Consumer Reports says your dentist might help ease the financial pain.

• Ask your dentist for a discount if you pay in full.

• Ask for a payment plan; the dentist should be willing to work with you.

Orthodontics

“Don’t have the expectation that it will be covered 100 percent,” says Rosato of orthodontics for your children. Orthodontics may be covered if they are considered medically necessary, but that is not very common. Orthodontic plans typically have different deductibles and maximums than the primary dental plans, says Marquita Fulton, office manager at Holdbrook Pediatric Dental in Swedesboro, NJ.

Special needs

Many parents may not know that anesthesia may be covered for cleanings if a child has a severe disability, says Pyle.

Generally, children under the age of 21 with a diagnosis of a significant mental or physical condition will qualify. Speak to your child’s physician or psychologist to get written certification to qualify for coverage.

Suzanne Koup-Larsen is a contributing writer for MetroKids.

No dental insurance

“If you need something serious, dental treatment is very expensive,” says Rosato.

Because many families don’t have savings put aside for dental emergencies, going without dental insurance is risky. “In

FEBRUARY 2019

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Mom Matters

Find the Spark Weekend-getaway ideas (without the kids)

By Kimberly Blaker Despite the joys and rewards of being a parent, the responsibility of raising kids often leaves parents with little time or energy to nurture their marriage. Not only is this unhealthy to your marriage, it can also affect the way you relate to your kids.

A retreat from home and kids is a great way to reignite the spark with your partner and this year there’s even an opportunity for a long Valentine’s Day weekend where you can have alone time with your significant other.

Ideas for escape weekends

Regardless of where you live, you can find plenty of escapes within a half day’s drive or less. Or hop on a short flight for more choices.

A Dude Ranch — Spend a weekend cowboy style and enjoy horseback and wagon rides, hikes, fishing, cowboy cookouts, dancing or just relax in a hot tub and soak up western charm.

Golf Getaway — Choose a weekend golf package or create your own with accommodations near some of the courses you’ve always wanted to play.

Bed and Breakfast — Find a romantic bed and breakfast in a quaint town with old-time charm. Stroll through an historic neighborhood, window shop, dine in local cafes, enjoy old-fashioned ice cream, a riverfront walk, and a visit to a local historic site.

How About: Cape May, NJ, which is chock-full of bed-and-breakfast inns and historic houses.

A Trip Down First-Date Lane — Remember those carefree days before the kids? Make a reservation at a hotel near where you met and spend the weekend revisiting your past. Eat at the restaurant of your first date, visit parks you once enjoyed, or re-enact some of your favorite dates.

Lover’s Lane Delight — Make accommodations with an in-room Jacuzzi and, on your way, take a mini-shopping spree at Victoria’s Secret or Frederick’s of Hollywood. Savor your time together, have

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breakfast in bed, catch up on movies.

Don’t forget to bring fragrant candles, a portable stereo and your favorite music.

Culture and Class — Select a topnotch hotel with fine dining and a luxurious room. Reserve tickets to a nearby play, musical, or event. Be sure to bring your best attire.

How About: Check VisitPhilly.com for downtown hotel packages. Four Seasons opens this spring atop the 60-story Comcast Technology Center.

Amusement Park Fun — Get in touch with your inner child. Make a reservation at an amusement-park resort or nearby hotel so you can take breaks and come and go as you please.

How About: Visit Hersheypark and stay nearby at The Hotel Hershey.

Music Lover’s Weekend — Buy concert tickets, then plan a weekend of musical merriment. Reserve a room near the concert hall. Catch a cab or ride service for a guaranteed designated driver.

How About: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Songs of Ireland concert at The Grand in Wilmington, DE on March 10.

Winter Resort — If you like the cold and snow, try a winter-recreation resort.

Then hit the slopes or cross-country trails, toboggan, or go skating. When you’re done, warm up with hot cocoa by a roasting fire.

Festival Fun — Contact a visitor’s bureau, chamber of commerce, or an online event directory to find upcoming festivals. Camp or rent a place to stay onsite or book a reservation nearby.

How About: The three-day Firefly Festival in June in Dover, DE with headliners Post Malone and Vampire Weekend.

Camp and Canoe Trip — Enjoy a weekend of water fun, sunshine, and sleep under the stars. Find a canoe-rental facility that offers riverbank camping and overnight trips.

How About: Search “canoes” at MetroKids. com/PlacestoVisit for nearly a dozen options in PA, NJ and DE. Second Honeymoon — Renew your vows and take a second honeymoon.

Write your own promise to recite to your

What to do with the kids Family

Relatives are a great option, even if they don’t live close by. If your parents or relatives live a distance away, leave the kids with them for a night or two the next time you visit. That also provides grandparents and grandchildren who don’t see each other often some special time together.

Friend or Neighbor

Ask a friend or neighbor with kids similar in age to do a weekend exchange. Or talk with the parents of one of your child’s friends.

Babysitter

Pay a trustworthy young adult to spend the weekend at your home to care for your kids. Discuss a reasonable flat fee up front to avoid misunderstandings.

Camp

Offer your kids a fun-filled week at summer camp.

Look for a camp that suits your kids’ interests.

Then make the most of their time away. Check out our Camp Directory at Metrokids.com/Camps partner. Each of you should bring a gift to show your appreciation for the other and serve as a reminder of your renewed commitment to each other. Don’t forget the honeymoon suite.

Make it a surprise — Pull this off, and you’ll have your partner eating out of your hand. Concoct a story about going to dinner, to an out-of-town furniture store that you’ve been dying to visit, or whatever it takes to get your spouse on the road with you. When you reach your destination, act confused, and explain you got your directions wrong. Pull into a hotel parking lot (conveniently where you’ve already made reservations). Then say you’ll run in and ask for directions.

After you’ve checked in, see how far you can drag your partner along before he discovers the surprise.

Kim Blaker is a freelance writer.

FEBRUARY 2019

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SpecialKids

Friends with ADHD Kids who are hyper and easily distracted may struggle with friendships.

Here’s how you can help.

By Susan Stopper Incomplete homework assignments and a tendency to be easily distracted in class are often what come to mind when we think of students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but ADHD can affect more than academics.

“What kids find most painful about living with ADHD is often the friendship problem,” says Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, psychologist from Princeton, NJ and author of the book Growing Friendships.

Studies have found that more than half of children with ADHD have difficulty with friendships. Children with hyperactivity and impulsivity often have trouble when they have to take turns or filter what they say. Children who are inattentive may not remember names or plans they’ve made, and often miss social cues.

The good news is more focus is being given to strategies to help children with ADHD strengthen social skills and develop friendships.

Plan playdates

“We know that kids with ADHD have fewer playdates than other kids,” says Dr. Jenelle Nissley-Tsiopinis, psychologist at the Center for the Management of ADHD at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Parents may shy away from playdates because they can be a challenge or because there isn’t enough time, since kids with ADHD often take longer to complete homework and other daily activities. Still, Nissley-Tsiopinis says, “Research has shown that the more playdates a child

FEBRUARY 2019

has the better they do socially.”

Claire Noyes, mother of two grown children with ADHD and coordinator of BuxMont CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) says that “because executive functions are often delayed, sometimes you have to do social engineering later than you’d expect. I arranged pizza and a movie with friends for my son when he was 14.”

Prep for social interactions

If you pick an activity your child enjoys and keep it short enough to end on a high note, you can set him up for success.

Before a social event, talk to your child about how she can handle situations.

“Ask questions like, ‘What are you going to do if this happens?’ and have your child answer. Role playing can also help,” says Kennedy-Moore.

If you have a playdate at your house, have your child come up with two options and let the guest choose. Make sure your child understands it is his job to make sure his visitor has a good time.

Children with ADHD sometimes don’t detect stop signals from friends.

Help him learn the signals and propose techniques to control the behavior that triggered it. Suggest, for example, he sit on his hands in order to stay still or pretend his tongue is glued to the top of his mouth so he doesn’t talk so much.

Intervene cautiously

Keep an ear out for tension or boredom when your child is with friends, but don’t correct him in front of the others or after the playdate.

“A correction later makes him feel bad because he can’t fix it,” says Nissley-Tsiopinis. Instead, you can redirect in the moment with a snack or a new activity.

Kennedy-Moore says you can also call your child into another room and give gentle feedback. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and that his intentions are good, and then explain the impact of his behavior. For instance, you can say, “I know you’re trying to be helpful. When

Tips for Friends of ADHD Teens If you are friends with someone with ADHD, you might love his energy, creativity and the fact that you share a love of skateboarding, but sometimes he says rude things or forgets plans you’ve made. How can you handle the challenges and enjoy your friendship?

• Understand that your friend doesn’t mean to be mean and don’t take it personally.

• If your friend forgets to call or show up somewhere, call or send him a reminder.

There’s a good chance it wasn’t intentional, and he just got distracted.

• Give direct feedback. If you don’t like something your friend does or says, tell him kindly but clearly.

• Plan activities where you both feel comfortable. If your friend talks loudly and can’t sit still through a movie, go to the skate park together instead.

• We all have differences. Appreciate your friend for who he is. you yell how to play the video game, your friend may feel uncomfortable and not want to play.” Then move forward by asking your child, “What can you do to make your friend feel better?” or offer your child some new activity suggestion to take back to his friend.

For older children, Nissley-Tsiopinis suggests you set reminders on their phones or send texts when they’re out with friends to remind them to be active listeners, for example.

Remember to praise your child for positive behavior. Nissley-Tsiopinis says, “Reward your child with points they can cash in to stay up later or get extra screen time.”

“It’s important to be gentle with criticisms,” says Kennedy-Moore. “Because friendships can be a challenge, make family interactions as positive as possible.”

Susan Stopper is a PA-based freelance writer.

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Camp

Welcome LGBTQ Campers Camps that strive to make all kids comfortable regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity

By Terri Akman Camps today are sensitive to show respect for a diverse group of campers, including campers’ sexual orientation and gender identity. About 60 percent of camps accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) say they serve campers who identify as LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning), says Tom Rosenberg, ACA CEO, although given the sensitivity of the subject and the fact that many campers are still quite young, it’s possible the number is higher.

“Camps are working hard to understand the individual needs of every one of their children and staff in terms of gender identity, respecting that it’s not a binary thing but a spectrum and very fluid,” says Rosenberg.

‘It’s just no big deal’

No matter what a camp’s primary focus is — sports, arts, science, etc. — camp gives children the opportunity to learn about themselves and engage socially with others. This is true for kids of any sexual orientation or gender identity. In a diverse world, camp offers a chance for all kinds of kids to interact.

Camp Havaya in the Poconos offers traditional camp activities, but says its focus is on the camper’s personal development.

“We really want kids to grow as human beings,” says Camp Director Sheira Director-Nowack, who stresses the camp’s support of diversity and inclusion.

About 20 percent of their campers between 2nd and 11th grades identify as LGBTQ, but the focus is less about orientation and more about feeling comfortable whatever that orientation happens to be. “It’s just no big deal,” Director-Nowack says.

Some campers identify as heterosexual, some have two moms or two dads, but all feel really comfortable being around all types of people.

“When you first enter Camp Havaya, you are greeted not only by incredible and amazing people, but also by a huge rainbow flag,” says Mickey L., 16, from the Mt. Airy section of Philadelphia. “At Havaya, when I came out as genderqueer, it was a smooth and drama-free shift in how people referred to me.”

Mickey especially appreciates how the camp embraces diversity and holds acceptance

12 MetroKids.com

as a core value. “Unlike the world outside of Havaya, I have never encountered anyone at camp who has directly refused to call me by my name and pronouns — they and them. Even the bathroom, where the sign reads, ‘This bathroom may be used by anyone, regardless of gender identity or expression,’ is a small thing that makes a huge difference in the safety and comfort of many campers.”

Diversity’s life lessons

When Melinda W., 13, attended Liberty Lake, a day camp in Bordentown, NJ, she mentioned to her mom, that there was a transgender child in her bunk. “She said the child felt uncomfortable being in a bunk with boys but was more comfortable being with girls,” recalled her mom, Donna C., from Burlington Township, NJ. “That made sense to me and I’m very glad she’s accepting of people who are going through their own personal challenges.”

She appreciates that her kids meet all kinds of children.

“When they get out of school and camp they will be exposed to people from all different walks of life,” she says. “It’s important to learn at a young age how to negotiate people who are different than them.”

For Melinda, this bunkmate was just one of the crew. “I realized they were really, really nice, and it didn’t really matter what gender they identified as,” she recalled. “As long as they are happy and comfortable in their own skin and they have enough support, it should be fine with everybody. I learned it’s okay to be who you are.”

While housing decisions can be a little tricky, Adam Simon, owner and director of Odyssey Teen Camp in Holmes, NY, where 25 percent of the campers identify as LGBTQ, says adjustments are easy to make.

“We put campers in whatever cabin they want and generally it works out really well,” Simon says. “We do whatever we can to make certain each camper is in the cabin they feel most comfortable and sometimes it means moving campers around and that’s not a big deal at camp.”

CAMP

Young generations lead the way

Camps train staff to be sensitive to all campers’ needs, including sensitivity training regarding sexual orientation and gender identity. Many camps have added gender-neutral bathrooms and dressing areas.

For campers and the young adults who are their counselors, inclusivity comes naturally, says Andy Pritikin, owner and director

continued on p. 19

FEBRUARY 2019

RUN • LEARN • SWIM • EXPLORE • SMILE • ADVENTURE • FRIENDS • MEMORIES • PLAY • CLIMB • SING • GROW • FUN • SUMMER • HAPPY • NATURE • LEARN • EXPLORE • HIKE • GROW • SUMMER • ADVENTURE • SWIM • RUN • FRIENDS • SUN • SWIM • NATURE continued from p. 6 • SMILE • LAUGH • CLIMB • SING • GROW • FUN • SUMMER • ADVENTURE • PLAY • HAPPY • RUN • LEARN • SWIM • EXPLORE • SMILE • ADVENTURE • FRIENDS • MEMORIES • PLAY • CLIMB • SING • GROW • FUN • SUMMER • HAPPY • NATURE • LEARN • EXPLORE • HIKE • GROW • SUMMER • ADVENTURE • SWIM • RUN • FRIENDS • SUN • SWIM • NATURE • SMILE • LAUGH • CLIMB • SING • GROW • FUN • SUMMER • ADVENTURE • PLAY • HAPPY • RUN • LEARN • SWIM • EXPLORE • SMILE • ADVENTURE • FRIENDS • MEMORIES • PLAY • CLIMB • SING • GROW • FUN • SUMMER • SUN • NATURE • LEARN • EXPLORE • HIKE • GROW • SUMMER • ADVENTURE • SWIM • RUN • FRIENDS • SUN • SWIM • NATURE • SMILE • LAUGH • CLIMB • SING CAMP • FRIENDS • MEMORIES • PLAY RUN • LEARN • SWIM • EXPLORE •SU SMILE MME• RADVENTURE A C M Y • CLIMB • SING • GROW • FUN • SUMMER • HAPPY • NATURE • LEARN • EXPLORE • HIKE • GROW • SUMMER • ADVENTURE • SWIM • RUN • FRIENDS • SUN • SWIM • NATURE

E R U T N E V AD AWAITS!

REGISTER YOUR KIDS TODAY FOR THE BEST SUMMER EVER! WWW.YSUMMERCAMP.ORG Financial assistance is available.

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

Enrol ling new students through February 1st SuMMER CAMPS 2019

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. “Beautiful Ballet” and “Broadway Bound” camps for children ages 4 to 10 years, as well as “Contemporary Concepts” 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 June 24-28, July 8-12, July 15-19, 2019.

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 preprofessional 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 24-28, July 8-12, July 15-19, 2019.

DDC is planning a special two-week program to acquaint participants to the required versatility and expressiveness needed for the professional stage. For participants ages 6 to 12 years with little or no dance experience and experienced dancers ages 12 to 18 years, the program will culminate in a special stage revue performance.

More information to be posted soon.

July 22 - August 2, 2019.

FEBRUARY 2019

SuMMER WORkShOPS 2019

Visit www.delawaredancecompany.org for more info.

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

CAMP

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Camp Directory

Thrilling adventures are in store for children at summer camps throughout the Delaware Valley in 2019! 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, & Smyrna, DE kidzink2@comcast.net KidzEarlyLearning.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, 302-838-1500; 1703 Porter Rd., Bear, 302-838-5400; 645 W. North St., Dover, 302-730-4034; 616 W. Glenwood Ave., Smyrna, 302-653-4034.

New Castle County Summer Camps Various locations in New Castle County, DE: Claymont, Middletown, New Castle, Newport, Newark, North Wilmington, DE 302-395-5632 alexander.stephen@newcastlede.gov newcastlede.gov/camps

DAY Recreation Camps — Full-Day at 5 sites; Half-Day at Battery Park, Old New Castle & Thurgood Marshall Elementary, Newark. Specialty Camps — Safety Town, ArtVentures at NCC Art Studio, Science Explores STEM at Rockwood Park, Musical Theater Camp at NCC Art Studio.

CIT SN

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

2019 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 18-22. 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.

2019 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 2 Summer Stock Camps in musical theatre with Candlelight Theatre in Arden, dance and acting camps in Bear, evening camps in art and music, and more! Day and evening programs for all ages, beginning to advanced, including adult classes. Summer ballet maintenance and Dance Intensives for serious dancers. Pursue your passions at DelArts!

SN

DELAWARE

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

DAY Tatnall’s expansive campus is filled with exploration, imagination, and summer fun. Campers participate in programs, from traditional day camp to enrichment, arts, technology, dance, and sports. Half and full-day camps, lunch options, Extended Day program, and swim team offer convenience and flexibility.

CIT

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 35268 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

Camp Firefly at Red Lion 1390 Red Lion Rd. Bear lpargoe@reachschools.online Reachschools.online

DAY Igniting The Flame of Explorations and Discovery! Come join us this summer at Camp Firefly! Lunch, snacks, field trips, and extended care included! Water Slide and Water Ice Truck every Friday.

CCArts Fine & Performing Arts Camp 410 Upper Snuff Mill Row Yorklyn; 302-239-2434 nschmid@ccarts.org ccarts.org

DAY A half or full day camp with before and after care offering flexibility for busy summer schedules. Professional teaching artists offer painting, drawing, ceramics, fibers, photography, printmaking, mixed media, theater and music.

Portfolio prep and camps for older teens also.

Centreville Layton School Summer Program 6201 Kennett Pk. 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 25-July 27.

SN

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.

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 Co. Summer Dance & Theatre Camp 168 S. Main St. Madeline Crossing, Suite 101 Newark; 302-738-2023 Delawaredancecompany.org

DAY With over 20 years of experience, DDC dance camps have proven to please both those who love dance as well as those with no dance experience. DDC will offer 3 weeks of camp, each one centered around a style of dance. Beautiful Ballet & Broadway Bound for ages 4-10, as well as Contemporary Concepts for ages 6-10. Each camp culminates in a fully costumed performance on stage at the University of Delaware. Camps are held June 24-28, July 8-12 & July 15-19.

A special 2 musical theatre week camp is held July 22-August 2 for younger dancers ages 6-12 and older dancers ages 1218. Early drop off and late pick-up are included. Any age half day or full day option!

MetroKids.com

mk

smart. local. parenting.

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

14 MetroKids.com

CAMP

FEBRUARY 2019

Wilmington Friends School Summer Camps

• DAY CAMP • ENRICHMENT

June 17 through August 23

• SPORTS

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.

FUN ALL SUMMER LONG!

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

Quaker matters. Come see why.

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

towerhill.org/summer 2813 W 17TH ST, WILMINGTON, DE 19806

FIND

US ONLINE Their Summer

Adventure Awaits!

PLAY | SWIM | EXPLORE | CRAFT

mk smart. local. parenting.

MetroKids.com FEBRUARY 2019

Full Day o Half Day Artventures Science Explorers Fine Arts o Drama Sports o Safety Town

You've Got Kids.

We've Got Camps.

newcastlede.gov/

CAMPS

CAMP

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Camp Directory

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

OUTLYING AREAS - MARYLAND

DAY Summer day-camps for children completing kindergarten through sixth grade to explore science and nature in-depth and up-close, with a new animal exploration camp for seventh-ninth grade. This year features some of our campers’ favorite camps with new hands-on 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 available 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 camp@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.

Pilot Summer Camp 208 Woodlawn Rd., Wilmington cshivone@pilotschool.org pilotschool.org

DAY Children ages 5-12 will benefit from our multi-sensory approach, which offers them the opportunity to engage in activities while learning. This fun, hands-on camp focuses on special skills, team building, science experiments and nature while integrating reading and math.

Prompt & Play, LLC 5157 W. Woodmill Rd., Ste. 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 with one another appropriately.

SN

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.

University of Delaware ELC Summer Camps 489 Wyoming Rd. Newark; 302-831-6205 ud-elc@udel.edu elc.udel.edu

DAY The University of Delaware Early Learning Center provides summer camp filled with adventures that support a child’s interests through STEAM guided activities. Sign your rising 1st – 3rd grader up now! Visit our website for details.

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.

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

DAY June 17-Aug. 23, 2019: 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.

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 (age 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 & kayaking horseback riding plus other activities. Nurses on staff 24/7. We also have off season respite weekends for children and adults. In addition we also have travel trips for adults over age 18. All facilities are new including our 12,000 square foot activity center, new 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 8- week sessions. Non-competitive, free-choice program. Waterskiing, sailing, wakeboarding, crabbing, ropes course, nature, art and much more! ACA OUTLYING AREAS - PENNSYLVANIA

Adventure Camp at Roundtop Mountain Resort 925 Roundtop Rd. Lewisberry, PA 717-432-9631 skiroundtop@skiroundtop.com Roundtopmountainresort.com/ camps/summer-adventure-camps

DAY Book your child’s best week of the summer at South Central PA’s favorite ski resort where campers enjoy a multitude of adventure-based activities including zip lines, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, archery, paintball, OGO balls, high and low ropes courses, the super slide, chairlift rides and much more. All right here on our beautiful 1200 acre mountain property. Day and residential camps available.

Residential housing is in air-conditioned mountain chalets.

CIT

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 (sign up

by April 1 and save 10%!)

SN

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

YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser 201 Cushion Peak Rd. 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 OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER

NEW Camp Caribbean

TRAVEL, RESIDENTIAL We are a camp based in the Mayan Riviera/Cancun. With us, you’ll get to zip-line through the jungle, swim with turtles, scuba-dive in crystal clear waters, swim in the underground rivers of XCARET, train dolphins, feed monkeys and play with macaws, sail the beautiful Caribbean, and enjoy a whole day at the XEL-HA, XENSES, and XPLORE parks. Spend quality time with your counselor, play night games, sing silly songs around a bonfire, and eat delicious food!

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.

Multiple Locations in Mexico Info@grupoeduplay.com Campeduplay.com

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

16 MetroKids.com

CAMP

FEBRUARY 2019

At Kids, Ink, our commitment to quality is unwavering. We strive each day to exceed each family’s expectations, provide nurturing relationships with each family, and focus on each child’s individual needs. If you are not 100% satisfied with your child’s current early childhood experience, contact one of our 5 locations for a tour or just stop by.

Caring & Engaging Teaching Staff

Full-time and Part-time Programs

Core Knowledge Curriculum

PRESENT THIS AD AT ANY KIDS, INK, AND RECEIVE

300 OFF

$

After four weeks of full-time enrollment. $100 off the 5th, 6th and 7th week of care.

Applies to full-time enrollment only (5 days per week). New enrollment only and one coupon per family. Does not apply to POC, Before & After School Care or Summer Camp Enrollment. Good from 2/1/19 to 3/31/19

Assessments for Infants through School-Age

Nutritional Breakfast, Lunch & Afternoon Snack

Smyrna, DE 616 W. Glenwood Ave. (302) 653-4034

Serving N. Smyrna, Clayton, Smyrna, Sunnyside Elementary

Dover, DE 645 W. North St. (302) 730-4730

Electronic Entry and Cameras in each classroom

Indoor Playroom, Computers and Theater Room

Serving William Henry, S. Dover, East Dover, Holy Cross

Bear, DE 1703 Porter Rd. (302) 838-5400

Serving Southern, Keene, Wilbur, Oberly Elementary

Bear, DE 1 Songsmith Dr. (302) 838-1500

Serving Leasure and Thurgood Marshall Elementary

kidzearlylearning.com mk

Bear, DE 345 School Bell Rd. (302) 327-0686

Serving Thurgood Marshall and Wilbur Elementary

Moms Know continued from p. 4

Rotate

What to do with the half of your children’s possessions you’ve tucked away? Create a toy-rotation system. Every few weeks, replace the toys that are available with ones in storage. This creates a new interest in toys that your child may have had for years. Follow your child’s cues to know when it is time to switch.

When you notice your child losing interest in the “new” toys, it’s time to rotate. Once you get into a routine, your child will likely let you know when she wants to rotate for some fresh items.

Your child will also let you know if a certain toy needs to be available all the time.

In general, anything with batteries or a screen grabs your child’s passive attention. He can play with these things all day and still not develop one iota of concentration. Even toys with batteries that claim to be educational will do far less for your child’s academic success than some good old-fashioned analog toys and activities. Seek out toys, games, and activities that are open-ended and invite curiosity, creativity, voluntary attention, and problem solving. Blocks, puzzles, water works, pegboards, books, puppets, and natural objects that can be counted and sorted are a few options.

Focus on beauty and order

Think about how lovely it is when you enter a place that is simple, orderly and beautiful. Something in you relaxes.

Adults seek out these kinds of places to help them access a creative flow and spiritual insights, or to rest and rejuvenate. Bring a little of that wonderful energy into your home by displaying toys and activities in a way that entices and has a clear sense of order.

Your children will respond to this simple beauty, just as they do in their classrooms.

Choose toys mindfully

Choose toys that engage rather than entertain. If we want our children to develop an ability to concentrate, we need to surround them with things that encourage concentration.

FEBRUARY 2019

Olynda Smith is a Montessori early-childhood teacher. This article was excerpted from an article published in Montessori Life magazine, Spring 2018. ©2018 American Montessori Society. Used with permission. All rights reserved. www.amshq.org

mk smart. local. parenting.

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Child Care & Early Education Directory

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 A.S. ACADEMY OF LEARNING 10 Songsmith Drive, Newark • 302-834-5620 891 Pulaski Highway, Bear • 302-276-0868 asacademyoflearning.com • Ages: 6 wks.-12 yrs. • Hours: 6am-6pm Every child is unique, and we believe that success and growth come from encouragement and praise. Breakfast & Pm snack provided. All activities included. POC Plus Accepted & Sibling Discount. Delaware Stars 5. DE, DYF, DE ★ 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 Department of Education. Internet viewing available. Nutritional snack and lunch program provided daily. Proudly participating in the Delaware Stars Quality Rating System. Panic Button Security System. GREAT NEWS! Our Middletown, DE location is opening Spring 2019! 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 The Montessori program at CACC is child directed with individualized instruction and a low student/teacher ratio. Our Enrichments include Chinese Instruction, Gardening, Library, Art, Gym (Zumba & Yoga), Music, and Technology. Preprimary students can also elect to participate in after school activities such as Ballet, Drama, Soccer, Science Club and Piano lessons. 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: 1 yr.-13 yrs. • 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, BS, AS, DA, PAIS, AMS, MSA

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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 Schools & Colleges

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

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 EARLY LEARNING CENTER AT UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE, THE 489 Wyoming Rd. Newark, DE 302-831-6205 • www.elc.udel.edu • Ages: 6 wks.-5 yrs. – Hours: 7am-6pm The UD Early Learning Centers provide high quality care and education programs for children and their families by establishing a model for exceptional practices for future early educators.

Because the ELC is associated with the University of Delaware, children and their families benefit from clinical placements and current research on best practices in early childhood. SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, DYF, NAEYC 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*

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)

FEBRUARY 2019

mk

Child Care & Early Education Directory 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

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

WILMINGTON, NEW CASTLE COUNTY CONCORD PRESCHOOL AND CHILDCARE 1800 Fairfax Blvd., Wilmington, DE 302-654-9629 • www.concordpreschoolandchildcare.com Ages: 1 yr.- 9yrs. • 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* SAINT ANTHONY OF PADUA GRADE SCHOOL 1715 W. Ninth St. Wilmington DE 302-421-3743 • www.school.stanthonynet.org • Ages: PreK-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 ST. MICHAEL’S SCHOOL AND NURSERY 700 N. Walnut St., Wilmington, DE 302-656-3389 • www.stmichaelsde.org • Ages: 8wks-PreSchool • Hours: 7am -5:30 pm A 5-Star rated early education center with a recently expanded Infant and Toddler Program convenient to all downtown Wilmington employers. High quality, nurturing environment that prepares children to learn and succeed in school. Large facility with 16 classrooms, gross motor play rooms, dining room, library and spacious, age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Fresh, nutritious meals prepared daily. Our “whole child” approach supports children’s social-emotional, physical, language and cognitive needs. St. Michael’s values diversity, qualified faculty and family involvement. Vouchers accepted. FY, MP, DA, DHS, DE, DYF, DE ★

How do

YOU beat the

URSULINE ACADEMY 1106 Pennsylvania Ave., Wilmington, DE 302-658-7158 • Ursuline.org • Ages 3-18 • 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, DAIS, ADVIS, NAIS WILMINGTON FRIENDS SCHOOL PRESCHOOL 101 School Road, Wilmington, DE 302-576-2930 • Ages: 2 yrs.-4 yrs. • Hours: 7:30am-6pm The Wilmington Friends Reggio Emilia inspired preschool 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, FY, AS, BS, SP, 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

What are you looking for?

DAYCARE MetroKids.com/Childcare mk

Camp continued from p. 12

winter blues? mk has your answer...

Every day during February, log on to

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Toy & ticket giveaways • Craft ideas & activities Easy recipes • Cool local events

days 28 Winter of

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FEBRUARY 2019

of Liberty Lake. “They aren’t just used to it but are advocates for these kids and staff as well. When older staff slip up and accidentally do or say things that could be considered offensive, campers have no problem respectfully letting them know.”

Simon says Odyssey’s counselors are key to its growing LGBTQ community. “We have many transgender and genderqueer counselors who are wonderful mentors, roles models, and friends to these campers,” he says.

Questions parents should ask

When choosing a camp, parents need to have a dialogue with the director to find out what the camp is all about, says Rosenberg. That includes asking how kids who identify as LGBTQ fit into their camp. Ask how the staff is trained and how diverse the camp is, overall.

“Camps have to endeavor to be physically, emotionally and psychologically safe environments for all children, including not permitting bullying or inappropriate behavior that belittles or talks down or is biased or prejudiced,” says Rosenberg.

“That’s the kind of camp everyone wants to be a part of.”

Terri Akman is a Philadelphia-based contributing writer to MetroKids.

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Family Fun

Explore the outdoors during family-friendly hikes at state parks Feb. 2 & 19.

FEBRUARY

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event PNC Grow Up Great

9 Saturday

Valentine's event

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

1 Friday

Glory of Stories: Regina’s Big Mistake at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. $ Parents’ Night Off at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Activities include experiments, games, arts & crafts and a movie screening. $$$$

2 Saturday

Biggs Kids: Inspired by Africa at the Biggs Museum of American Art. See “Town & County,” p. 22. FREE Victorine's Valentine's Day

9 Saturday

"Witch Hazel" is Your Favorite?

16 Sunday

20 MetroKids.com

Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at the John Bell House, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 22. FREE Winter Wonderland Hike at Trap Pond State Park, Laurel. FREE

3 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Game Day at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Don your favorite team jersey to enjoy face painting and art games. FREE

Groundhog Day Hike at Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes. Follow a naturalist to search for signs of spring. FREE

First Sunday Family Day: Breaking Boundaries at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Construct selfportraits from collage materials, make peace flags and buttons and design valentines. FREE

Lunar New Year at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. Activities include calligraphy, martial arts and performances. $$$

First Sunday for Families at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. Make valentine cards and collages. FREE

Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. Check out more than 700 vehicles and enjoy performances and giveaways. $$$

Lunar New Year Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Visit the newly renovated Chinese art galleries and watch a dance performance. Pay what you wish

Sharing the Love Event at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Show appreciation for the venue’s resident animals with a themed photo booth, raffles, animal-toy workshops and make-and-take valentines. $$$

Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$

5 Tuesday

Stages of Discovery: Freedom Bound at Copeland Hall, Wilmington. See “Town & County,” p. 22. $$

FEBRUARY 2019

Phila. Discover the world of ancient Egypt via gallery tours, a scavenger hunt and an art project. $$$ Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at the John Bell House, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 22. FREE Try Science: Be a Meteorologist at the Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington. $$ Victorine’s Valentine’s Day at the Hagley Museum, Wilmington. Use the “scrap” method to make a Victorian valentine, write verses with a quill pen and snack on sugar cookies. $$$

10 Sunday

CULTURE CLUB

The Year of the Pig kicks off Feb. 5, but festivities continue during the Chinese New Year Celebration, Feb. 10 at the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington. Families enjoy traditional Chinese art activities, artist demos, a yo-yo performance and the main-event lion dance, presented by a local troupe.

6 Wednesday

Black History Month Matinee at the Bear Library, Bear. See “Town & County,” p. 22. FREE Nature Nuggets: I Love Nature at White Clay Creek State Park, Newark. Little ones engage in crafts and outdoor fun. $

7 Thursday

Sea-Glass Jewelry Workshop at Delaware Seashore State Park, Rehoboth Beach. $$$$

8 Friday

Coppélia at the Baby Grand Theatre, Wilmington. Performed by First State Ballet Theatre. $$$$ Chinese New Year Celebration at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. See “Culture Club,” left. FREE Family Arts Academy: Painting and Text at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Explore how text and visuals can be combined to make a masterpiece. FREE Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$

13 Wednesday

Wee Have Fun Club: Birdseed Valentines at Bellevue State Park, Wilmington. $

14 Thursday

Sweetheart Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. $$$

15 Friday

Glory of Stories: Oh, the Places You’ll Go at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. $

16 Saturday

Disco Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. Show off your disco gear and skate to ‘70s tunes. $$$

The Evolution of Black Recorded Music: The Age of SelfExpression at the Johnson Victrola Museum, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 22. FREE

Family Game Night at the Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington. Go head-to-head during giant bowling, plate-toss tic-tac-toe and jumbo Jenga. $$

Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at the John Bell House, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 22. FREE

Glory of Stories: Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. $ Stages of Discovery: Madeline and the Bad Hat at the Playhouse on Rodney Square, Wilmington. $$

9 Saturday

Coppélia at the Baby Grand Theatre, Wilmington. Performed by First State Ballet Theatre. $$$$ The Evolution of Black Recorded Music: The Age of SelfExpression at the Johnson Victrola Museum, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 22. FREE Geocaching Program at Alapocas Run State Park, Wilmington.

Pick up the basics of the sport, then set out to practice what you learned. $$$ Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$ PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE Second Saturday: Egyptian Adventures at the Penn Museum,

FEBRUARY 2019

“Witch Hazel” is Your Favorite? at Morris Arboretum, Phila.

Experience the colors and fragrance of winter during this map-led exploration where kids try to find 70-plus varieties of witch hazel. $$$

17 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Collaboration at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Work in pairs and teams to create a collaborative painting. FREE Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns and Mermaids at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. This new exhibit, running through June 9, explores how real animals inspired tales of mythic creatures. Kids touch fossils, build dragons and meet a “sea monster.” $$$

18 Monday

Day-Off Camp: Winter Wonderland at Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, Milford. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 22. $$$$ Day-Off Camp: Winter Workshop at Coverdale Farm Preserve, Greenville. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 22. $$$$ Presidents Day Camp at Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 22. $$$$

MetroKids.com 21

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Family Fun

Presidents Day Camp at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 22. $$$$

19 Tuesday

Full Moon Hike at Bellevue State Park, Wilmington. FREE

trucks, face painting and a Philly sports-themed auction. $$ Pancake Breakfast and Maple-Sugaring Celebration at Tyler Arboretum, Media, PA. Visit maple-sugaring stations to discover how syrup is made, then enjoy a meal. $$$

20 Wednesday

Science Saturday: Pump It Up at the Hagley Museum, Wilmington. Discover solutions to science and engineering challenges that focus on fluid dynamics and hydraulics. $$$

22 Friday

Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at the John Bell House, Dover. See “Town & County,” right. FREE

Black History Month Matinee at the Bear Library, Bear. See “Town & County,” right. FREE Glory of Stories: Under and Over the Snow at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. $

23 Saturday

24 Sunday

Access to Science at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Kids on the autism spectrum and their families experience the venue in a sensory-friendly setting. $$$

Family Arts Academy: Fantastic Beasts at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila.

Make a mythological creature inspired by the “beasts” that roam the galleries. FREE

The Evolution of Black Recorded Music: The Age of Self-Expression at the Johnson Victrola Museum, Dover. See “Town & County,” right. FREE

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

Jr. Engineers: Acoustical Engineering at the Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington. $$ Mummers Mardi Gras Festival at 2300 Arena, Phila. This indoor-outdoor fest features stringband performances, family activities, food

Town & County: Black History Month

25 Monday

27 Wednesday

Wee Have Fun Club: Move Like the Animals at Bellevue State Park, Wilmington. Nature discoveries, stories and art projects are part of the fun. $

This important month brings several ways to honor African-American history, cultural significance and contributions to the community.

KENT COUNTY Dover knows how to celebrate. The Biggs Museum of American Art’s monthly Biggs Kids program, Feb. 2, encourages little ones to make art inspired by African designs and crafts.

On Saturdays, families can experience the Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour. Kicking off at the John Bell House, the tour is led by historical interpreters dressed in period garb, who recall Delaware’s complicated position as a border state.

Music lovers learn all about The Evolution of Black Recorded Music: The Age of Self-Expression at the Johnson Victrola Museum Feb. 9, 16 & 23, with a focus on influential record companies and artists such as Ethel Waters and Louis Armstrong.

NEW CASTLE COUNTY Visit Wilmington’s Copeland Hall for the Stages of Discovery: Freedom Bound performance Feb. 5, geared toward elementary-aged audiences. The show tells the story of escaped slave Addison White and his rescue by the residents of Mechanicsburg, Ohio.

KIDS’ DAY OFF

Looking for a way to keep the kids busy Presidents Day, Feb. 18, while you’re at work? Let them go wild at the Brandywine Zoo’s Presidents Day Camp in Wilmington, themed to animal enrichment activities. Or get them engaged in games and crafts during Presidents Day Camp, also in Wilmington, at the Delaware Museum of Natural History.

Or sign them up for either of two Day-Off Camps run by the Delaware Nature Society. They’ll build shelters and construct weather instruments at Milford’s Abbott’s Mill Nature Center and make enhancements to the classrooms at Coverdale Farm Preserve in Greenville.

22 MetroKids.com

Grab some popcorn! The Bear Library screens Black History Month Movie Matinees, featuring award-winning documentaries and biopics best suited for teens and adults Feb. 6, 13 & 20.

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

FEBRUARY 2019

mk

Family Fun

The Delaware Valley is home to a diverse mix of cultures and identities. Museums, historic sites and cultural centers provide a space for community members to celebrate their heritage and learn something new. Here’s a sampling of the area’s multicultural venues, plus tips to enhance your visit.

Find more venues at MetroKids.com/diversity.

DELAWARE AND MARYLAND

PENNSYLVANIA

Chinese-American Community Center, Hockessin

African American Museum, Phila.

Classes, concerts, workshops, seminars and holiday festivals engage visitors of all ages.

Insider’s tip: Need a new hobby? Choose from more than 20 activity clubs that range from cooking to karaoke to sports.

New Castle Court House Museum, New Castle

The state’s first capitol building also served as the trial site of abolitionists found guilty of violating the Fugitive Slave Act. Today, you’ll find exhibits that illustrate the state’s unique boundaries and how it played a role in the Underground Railroad.

Insider’s tip: Complement the experience with a guided tour of the town’s historic district.

Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore

With an array of artifacts, video footage and audio stations, the museum provides an interactive look at local and national history.

The permanent collection takes families on a journey through 400 years of African-American history in Maryland, with a focus on politics, sports, art and education.

Insider’s tip: Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders are granted free admission during the first Saturday and Sunday of each month as part of the Museums on Us program.

The venue showcases heritage and culture through exhibits and events. The mainstay Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia 1716-1817 features an interactive, 100-year timeline with large video projections.

Insider’s tip: Stop by on the second Saturday of each month for family programming such as historical reenactments, storytelling and workshops.

American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila.

The country’s oldest Swedish museum highlights the contributions of Swedes in American society, from art to architecture to science. Bring your little one to the monthly toddler-specific program that includes hands-on fun and discoveries about Swedish culture.

Insider’s tip: The colorful Pippi Longstocking exhibit space entertains kids with dress-up and treasure hunts.

The multipurpose center houses a museum with exhibits that pay homage to 1,000 years of Polish art, culture, traditions and famous figures.

Insider’s tip: Short on time? No worries! Visitors say this quaint space can be explored in under a half-hour.

NEW JERSEY African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, Atlantic City Documenting the 20th-century AfricanAmerican experience, the museum is home to thousands of artifacts including drawings, paintings and household items.

Insider’s tip: Its collection is updated monthly, so there’s always something new to see.

Asian Arts Initiative, Phila.

The center hosts performances, exhibits, kids’ art workshops and a community gathering space. On view Feb. 25-April 13, the Equality Labs exhibit showcases work by the eponymous South-Asian organization, which uses art, research and technology to fight racism and religious intolerance.

Insider’s tip: Keep an eye out for open-mic nights, poetry readings and film screenings.

National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila.

Dedicated to exploring the history of the Jewish people through artifacts, stories and interactive media, the museum’s core exhibit is a multi-floor, centuries-spanning timeline that chronicles the experiences of Jewish individuals who immigrated to the United States.

Insider’s tip: Enjoy FREE admission this month.

FEBRUARY 2019

Polish-American Cultural Center, Phila.

Peter Mott House, Lawnside

Home to a free, self-made farmer and his wife in the state’s early historically African-American community, the residence is open as a museum dedicated to its role as a station on the Underground Railroad.

Insider’s tip: Before you go, learn more about this and other Camden County historic sites via a podcast on the venue’s website.

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

MetroKids.com 23

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