MetroKids - 1219 DE

December 2019 | FREE

30 YEARS

Make the Season

BRIGHT

Locals’ Holiday Favorites • Toy Test 2019 Ear Infections: When Is it Time for Tubes?

PreK Signs to Watch

mk Inside In This Issue 4 Toy Test 2019 5 12 Days of Gifts 6 Inevitable Ear Infections SpecialKids 8 PreK Traits to Watch Family Fun 10 Locals’ Fave Holiday Displays 11 Day-to-Day Calendar Ad Sections

5 Events 7 Education 9 Child Care 13 Holiday Events

December 2019 Vol. 30, No. 12

Our Goal is Happy, Healthy Children!

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Warm, Friendly & Fun Atmosphere

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by Delaware Today Magazine

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CALL TODAY

Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

302-475-7640

DentistryForChildrenDE.com

2036 Foulk Rd., Suite 200 • Wilmington, DE 19810 DECEMBER 2019

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Toy Test

2019 Smart Learning Station The Learning Journey; 3+; $35.99 Testers: Eleanor (4), Clara (2) & mom Melissa; Havertown, PA The gist: The electronic machine features an alphabet-and-numbers touch pad, and light-up LED shape buttons.

Toy appeal: 7 Educational value: 8. “While this toy is suggested for ages 3 & up, there is great learning value for a 2-yearold. The sounds that go along with each image are a fun touch.”

Functionality: 7 Durability: 8 Melissa’s verdict: “I’d recommend this toy to parents of young toddlers who are still learning to identify letters, numbers, shapes and colors. It would’ve been nice if it also worked on letter sounds, not just identification.”

Eleanor’s thoughts: “I like that it plays music and that it talks. I also like to press the shapes because they have cute music to dance to.”

Clara’s thoughts: “I like the goat, lion and monkey, and I like to say ‘uh-oh!’ I don’t like to share with [my] sister.”

Blipbox Synth for Kids Playtime Engineering; 3+; $189 Testers: Lia (4) and mom Alissa; Hockessin, DE The gist: This fully functional synthesizer boasts professional features as well as colorful knobs & buttons, LED lights and a plastic design.

Toy appeal: 8 Educational value: 3 Functionality: 10 Durability: 9. “The toy seems very sturdy. She liked to bang on it to press the buttons, and even dropped it. So far, it’s held up well to the extremely hands-on attention of a 4-year-old.”

Alissa’s verdict: “The synth engaged her brain in a creative way. The bright lights and varied tracks have kept her engaged on multiple occasions, and she likes to share the songs with her friends for dance parties.”

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We asked families to try some of the season’s hottest toys and share their candid thoughts. Here’s what they had to say. For full reviews and more toy tests, visit MetroKids.com/toytest2019.

mk smart. local. parenting.

The Chameleon Board Game Big Potato; 14+; $19.79 Testers: Noah (15) and dad Jared; Royersford, PA The gist: In each round, a secret word is selected from a topic card. Everyone knows the word except for the person with the “chameleon card.” It’ll take some social deduction and trickery to find out who it is.

Toy appeal: 8 Educational value: 4 Functionality: 7 Durability: 5 Jared’s verdict: “This is great for family game night or when your kid has a lot of friends over. The instructions sound somewhat complicated, however they make sense once you start to play.”

215-291-5560 856-667-3555 302-224-3020 Toll Free: 888-890-4668 Fax: 215-291-5565

President: Nancy Lisagor, PhD, ext. 109 nlisagor@metrokids.com

Spin and Spiral Art Station Crayola; 5+; $19.99 Testers: Leila (6) and mom Yariela; Philly The gist: Make geometric marker designs or “spin out” with drippy spin-art paint creations.

Toy appeal: 10 Educational value: 8 “It taught motor skills and hand control. Leila was able to see how her art was affected by using more or less speed. And since the toy attracted the attention of her older brothers, it taught them how to play together despite their large age differences.”

Functionality: 9 Durability: 10 Yariela’s take: “I love the creative possibilities with this toy. You can end up with so many cool designs, even if you’re not great at art. It actually provides positive reinforcement for a child who needs it in his or her creative abilities.”

Leila’s thoughts: Yariela reports: “She loves that her brothers like it too, so they can play together. She also enjoys dreaming up different designs.”

1412-1414 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19102

Publisher: Darlene Weinmann, ext. 108 dweinmann@metrokids.com Managing Editor: Dave Gilmartin, 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: Riley Mudgett, ext. 100 marketing@metrokids.com Intern: Hayley Banks

ADVERTISING SALES 888-890-4668

Becky Henry ext. 105

Jeanie Mudgett-McGeoch ext. 111

Classified Sales ext. 100

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. © 2019 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:

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SUN., JANUARY 26

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Enjoy family holiday activities and vote for your favorite gingerbread house!

WWW.HAGLEY.ORG/HOLIDAYS 200 HAGLEY CREEK ROAD, WILMINGTON, DE 19807 • (302) 658-2400

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Udayan K. Shah is a professor at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University and chief of otolaryngology at Nemours/A.I. duPont Hospital for Children.

Health

The Inevitable Ear Infections Almost every kid gets them. A local pediatrician and med school professor tells how to cope, from patience to tubes.

By Udayan K. Shah Many of us remember getting ear infections as a child and the intense pain and bubble-gum flavored medicine that went with them. Ear infections are common in children and many kids suffer at least one. They become less common after childhood because the anatomy of the ear changes.

Here’s a rundown of what patients and parents need to know about middle ear infections:

What is an ear infection and what causes it?

The ear is made up of three parts: the outer, the middle and the inner ear. The middle ear is the space just behind the ear drum. Sometimes, excess fluid can pool in this space and lead to infection.

Acute middle ear infections (or acute otitis media) are painful infections that last a few days. They are often caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold, or by bacteria. The distinction between viral and bacterial causes is important because only bacterial causes respond to antibiotic treatment and some bacterial infections get better even without antibiotics.

Sometimes with an infection, the ear drum can rupture and have a hole that remains. When fluid from the infection fails to clear, or a hole is present, doctors call this a chronic middle ear infection.

What symptoms should parents look for?

Acute ear infections can be quite painful. Common symptoms include fever, irritability, trouble sleeping and eating, and sometimes pus or bloody fluid leaking from the ear. Very young children who cannot talk may pull or pick at their ears, “head bang,” or shake their head repeatedly.

Chronic ear infection symptoms may be more difficult for parents to spot. Children may complain of hearing loss, a sensation of pressure in their ears, and a loss of balance. Sometimes a discharge will come from the ear. There may be a delay in the development of speech and language.

When should parents take their child to a doctor?

If children have ear pain that is very severe or lasts more than a day, or if there is discharge from the ear, parents should take a trip to the doctor. A very young child who is not babbling or a child who complains of not hearing well should be checked for chronic middle ear infection.

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Why don’t doctors always prescribe antibiotics?

Many ear infections are caused by a virus, and antibiotics won’t help treat a viral infection. If a child does have an acute infection, the doctor will likely recommend a pain reliever to help with the fever and earache and start antibiotics if the symptoms don’t improve after a few days.

What if a child keeps getting them?

Doctors may recommend the placement of ear tubes in the ear drum. The tympanic membrane is the thin sheet of tissue that separates the outer from the middle ear.

Tubes in the ear drum “ventilate” the middle ear and so prevent recurrent middle ear infections. Ear tubes also allow fluid to drain from the ear when an infection does occur.

What is surgery for tubes like?

In general, surgery takes about 15 minutes. Doctors will place tubes in both ears during the same procedure. Children are under general anesthesia for the surgery, which means they will be completely asleep. After surgery, they should in most cases go home the same day.

Children may have mild discomfort and a bloody or pus-like drainage from the ears for about a week but can usually do all activities, including bathing, right away. A custom wax or putty ear plug can be used if the child swims in water deeper than three feet.

From Merck Manual Consumer Version (Known as Merck Manual in US and Canada and MSD Manual elsewhere.), edited by Robert Porter.

Copyright 2019 by Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc, Kenilworth, NJ. Accessed Nov. 2019 at Merckmanuals.com/home.

DECEMBER 2019

Not all kids learn the same.

This DE school gets it.

OPEN HOUSE: December 7th 11am – 12:30pm

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•Education provided on development and play •Looking for babies born full-term or preterm up to 5 months •We come to families for the visits •Toys and certificate of participation

Free DE Public Charter School

https://sites.udel.edu/move2learn/current-projects

2501 Centerville Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808 302-633-4091 ext. 232

www.gatewaylabschool.org

DECEMBER 2019

More Information About the Baby Play Project at

302-831-8666 • andreabc@udel.edu

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SpecialKids

Signs of Learning Problems in PreK Kids Developmental challenges can sometimes be spotted at a young age.

By Kathryn Streeter As parents encounter behavior from young children that rattles their expectations, how are they to know if it signals a learning challenge?

Potential development challenges can be spotted at a very young age, says Dr. Anna Osipova, assistant professor in the Division of Special Education and Counseling at California State University, Los Angeles. She divides these benchmarks into four categories.

Behavior at 3 years or younger

1. Mostly plays alone.

2. Uses toys with a specific function, like a car, for a different purpose, such as spinning the wheels.

3. Has difficulty with directions.

4. Throws frequent tantrums.

5. Gets easily frustrated and gives up easily.

6. Has a hard time with changes in activities, plans, routines.

Language between 3 and 5 years

1. Doesn’t add “s” for plurals or verbs but adds “ed” incorrectly, like “runned.”

2. Has trouble with articulation, rhymes.

3. Is slow to build vocabulary.

4. Shows difficulty recalling a word he knows

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5. Struggles with multi-step directions, forming questions, following or creating narratives.

Cognition by 5 years

1. Finds it difficult to recall words, routines, rules.

2. Can’t count in patterns, like by 2s, 5s, or backwards.

3. Struggles to organize and sort objects.

4. Does not grasp concepts of size, color, shape.

5. Finds it hard to focus attention for 5 or 10 minutes.

Where to Get Help Start with your child’s pediatrician, teachers and counselors, urges Dr. Anna Osipova of California State University, Los Angeles.

For children older than three, look to school districts for services. For those younger than three, she suggests regional centers.

Go to MetroKids.com/earlyintervention for a list of agencies, organizations and schools that specialize in early intervention in Southeastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware.

Literacy and academics by kindergarten 1. Struggles with rhymes, songs, colors, days of the week, and the alphabet.

2. Is slow to name objects and characters in stories.

3. Shows a delayed response to tasks and questions.

4. Has difficulty with letter sounds or blending sounds to form words.

5. Lacks interest in books.

Osipova, who teaches university-level courses in language and literacy development for students with special needs, says it is important for parents to bring up any concerns with their child’s pediatrician, who can screen for autism and language development as early as 18 months.

“The earlier the parents discuss their concerns with their pediatricians the better the chances are for effective intervention,” says Osipova. “I think it’s important for parents and educators to keep in mind that behavior, language, and later academic skills, including literacy, are interconnected with language skills often as the root of children’s strengths and difficulties.

“Language-based interventions at home and at school are likely to lead to improved behavior and academic skills.”

Kathryn Streeter is a freelance writer.

DECEMBER 2019

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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 Svcs.

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

DE★: Delaware Stars Participant NAEYC: Accredited—National Assoc. of Education of Young Children PAIS: Accredited—PA Assoc. of Independent Schools MSCES: Accredited—Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools * Note: DHS License: requires annual on-site visits. DE License: 20% of all facilities are inspected annually. MSA: Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges

MULTIPLE SITES

HOCKESSIN, NEW CASTLE COUNTY

GREAT NEW BEGINNINGS 14 St. Andrews Rd., Bear, DE 302-838-1000 210 Cleaver Farm Rd., Middletown, DE • 302-378-5555 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! Middletown location NOW OPEN. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, DYF, SN, DE, DE H, NAEYC

CACC MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1313 Little Baltimore Rd., Hockessin, DE 302-239-2917 •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

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 • Ymcade.org Ages: 6 wks.-13 yrs.

At the YMCA, we believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve.

That’s why child care and early learning programs at the Y focus on holistically nurturing child development by providing a safe and healthy place to learn fundamental skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships and build self-esteem through the Y values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. We offer a variety of programs throughout the state including Before and After School Care, Preschool and Summer camp.

Bear-Glasgow, 302-836-9622 • BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Brandywine, 302-478-9622 • half-day preschool, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Middletown, 302-616-9622 • before and after care, 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 ★

DECEMBER 2019

NEWARK, NEW CASTLE COUNTY EDU-CARE PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE 345 Polly Drummond Hill Rd., Newark, DE 302-453-7326 • 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, TP, DHS*, 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*

WILMINGTON, NEW CASTLE COUNTY CONCORD PRESCHOOL AND CHILDCARE 1800 Fairfax Blvd., Wilmington, DE 302-654-9629 • 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, 7:15am5:45pm. Founded in 1956. Financial aid, Parent volunteer opportunities available. FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS* ST. DAVID’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 2320 Grubb Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810 302-475-3747 • 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 A St. David’s Episcopal Church outreach, conveniently located in Brandywine Hundred. Develop- mental 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 • 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 ★ TOWER HILL SCHOOL 2813 W. 17th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806 302-575-0550 • Towerhill.org Ages: Age 3-Grade 12 • Hours: 8am -3pm 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, PAIS 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 MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1400 Harvey Rd., Wilmington, DE 302-475-0555 • wmsde.org • dmissions@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 H, AMS

mk smart. local. parenting.

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Family Family Fun Fun

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Guide to locals’ favorite Christmas traditions

DEC 6-31

When it comes to the holiday season, Delaware knows how to celebrate. These festive displays — all run by local residents, businesses or organizations — are beloved by community members and visitors alike.

Bear Santa Claus Lane (1054 Red Lion Rd.) is such a draw, nearby traffic slows for miles as passersby do a double take. And, with over 1 million lights, it’s no wonder. The spectacle’s creators, the Faucher family, reportedly foots an $80,000 electric bill so locals can enjoy their work.

Dewey & Rehoboth Beaches From tree lightings, parades and performances to a holiday farmer’s market and Santa’s boardwalk house, these neighboring seaside towns take holiday cheer to a new level.

Milford Businesses and restaurants on Walnut Street deck the downtown area with lights, decorations and displays. While the festivities last all month, families can take in the sights, as well as live entertainment during the annual holiday stroll event, Dec. 6.

New Castle Throughout the season, visitors can tour historic houses festooned for the occasion. The Amstel House features colonial decorations and 18th-century customs, while activities at the Dutch House celebrate St. Nicholas Eve, a tribute to a Dutch patron saint. The George Read House, once the largest home in Delaware, is adorned with decorations popular in the 1800s.

Wilmington The Smith family’s Christmas at the Top of the Hill, just off Silverside & Prior Rds., is so extravagant your kids might mistake the home for Santa’s real digs. The walk-through display, which has weathered more than three decades, includes animated figures, inflatables, colorful lights and visits from St. Nick.

Presented by

Photo: Claire McAdams

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Meet Santa!

St. Nick is in high demand!

While he pops up at many of these attractions, keep tabs on his whereabouts, including festivals, parades and themed train rides, at MetroKids.com/santavisits and MetroKids.com/santatrains.

DECEMBER 2019

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Family Fun

Say "hi" to Santa during the Holiday Open House at Rockwood Park, Dec. 6 & 7.

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR Special needs event Santa Claus Express

1 Sunday

Holiday event

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

1 Sunday

Breakfast with Santa at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. $$$ Family Arts Academy: The Art of Ballet at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Watch a performance by the Academy of International Ballet and make movement-inspired art. FREE Enchanted Winter Day at the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, Wilmington.

Make ornaments and gift wrap, watch a movie screening & performances and tour the venue’s seasonal decorations. $$$$

Merry Night at the Museum

7 Saturday

Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. St. Nick doles out treats and photo opportunities. $$$ Wild Wizarding Weekend at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Meet resident animals, play a “bunnies and broomsticks” game, make a magic wand and take home a special blend of tealeaves. $$$ Sensory-friendly Sunday at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

3 Tuesday

Children's Christmas Party

11 Wednesday

DECEMBER 2019

Museum Playdate: Does a Mouse Live in a House? at the Penn Museum, Phila. Little ones listen to a story, then explore artifacts in the Rome Gallery. $$

5 Thursday

Polar Express Read-Aloud Pajama Party at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford, PA. Kids don their PJs for a reading of the popular book and snack on hot chocolate & cookies. $$$

6 Friday

Holiday Open House at the Rockwood Park and Museum, Wilmington. Enjoy meet-andgreets with Santa, shopping, crafts, costumed characters and performances. FREE Holiday Stroll in downtown Milford. Explore shops and restaurants while enjoying live entertainment and a visit from Santa. FREE PAX Unplugged at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. This tabletop-gaming convention includes appearances by some of the industry’s biggest names, plus workshops and tournaments. $$$$ Star Wars Night at Franklin Square, Phila. FREE

7 Saturday

Breakfast and Train Ride with Santa at the B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD. $$$$ Breakfast with the Trains at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford, PA. In addition to the meal, families go on a behindthe-scenes tour of the venue’s model-railroad display, meet its engineers and partake in themed activities. $$$$

See MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information on these and other events.

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DO GOOD, HAVE FUN

The Ronald McDonald House of Delaware in Wilmington provides a “home away from home” for families of kids seeking local medical care. Help support its mission and spread holiday cheer during the annual Share a Night Lighting Ceremony and Fundraiser, Dec. 12. For each $15 donation, a light is added to the display. Take in the view and enjoy refreshments and entertainment.

CultureFest! Celebrations Around the World at the Penn Museum, Phila. Discover holiday traditions around the globe, join an Indian dance and sari-wrapping activity, design Arabic calligraphy and get your face painted. $$ A Farmer’s Christmas at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, Dover. Festivities include Santa sightings, artisan demos and opportunities to make wreaths, yarn dolls and holiday crafts. $$ Holiday Open House at the Rockwood Park and Museum, Wilmington. See Dec. 7. FREE

PAX Unplugged at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Dec. 6. $$$$ Photos with Santa at Milburn Orchards, Elkton, MD. FREE Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. See Dec. 1. $$$ Family Second Sunday at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. Activities include storytime and creative projects.

FREE

11 Wednesday

Lucia Fest and Christmas Market at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila. Enjoy Swedish Christmas songs, treats and the Lucia procession. $$$

Children's Christmas Party at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford, PA. Visit Santa, Mrs. Claus and a crew of costumed characters, check out model trains and explore “Cookie Land.” $$$

Merry Night at the Museum at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Expect a hot-chocolate lab and animal presentations. $$

Q102’s Jingle Ball at the Wells Fargo Center, Phila. Performers set to take the stage include Lizzo, Halsey, 5 Seconds of Summer and Niall Horan. $$$$

PAX Unplugged at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Dec. 6. $$$$ Photos with Santa at Milburn Orchards, Elkton, MD. FREE Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. See Dec. 1. $$$

8 Sunday

Breakfast and Train Ride with Santa at the B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD. $$$$ Family Arts Academy: Ocean Without a Shore at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a mysterious self-portrait with water. FREE Family Sunday: Feast Your Eyes at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila.

View themed artwork and write recipes for future foods. $$$$ Flavors of the Season at the Fairmont Park Charms, Phila. Enjoy food samples and demos while checking out the homes’ decked halls. $$$$

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12 Thursday

Homeschool Workshop: Holiday Cookie Lab at the Franklin Institute, Phila. $$$$ Share a Night Lighting Ceremony and Fundraiser at the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware, Wilmington. See “Do Good, Have Fun,” above. FREE The Well-Read Black Girl Book Club at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington.

Participants read and discuss Some Places More Than Others by Renée Watson. FREE

13 Friday

Family Game Night at the Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington. Play jumbo Jenga, Memory and plate-toss tic-tac-toe. $$ Holiday Celebration and Market at Glasgow Park, Newark. There’ll be music, gift & specialty food vendors, performances and Santa’s Workshop. FREE The Nutcracker Night at Franklin Square, Phila. Characters and crafts bring the tale to life. FREE

14 Saturday

Breakfast with Santa at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. $$$$ German-American Weekend at Christmas Village, Phila. Festivities include authentic German food, music and dance.

FREE Photos with Santa at Milburn Orchards, Elkton, MD. FREE Polar Express Day at the Franklin Institute, Phila. Climb aboard an authentic locomotive for a guided storytelling experience, and learn how trains move, the harmonics of sleigh bells and why no two snowflakes are alike. Kids receive $2 off admission by showing up in PJs. $$$$ SantaFest at the American Helicopter Musuem, West Chester, PA. The guest of honor arrives via helicopter while families enjoy visits to his workshop, photo ops, face painting and music. $$ Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. See Dec. 1. $$$ Sounds of the Season at the Fairmount Park Charms, Phila. Local acts perform seasonal favorites in the historic homes. $$$$ Yuletide Brunch with Santa at the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, Wilmington. $$$$

15 Sunday

Bill of Rights Day at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Commemorate the document’s anniversary by viewing an original copy, playing a game show and touring Signer’s Hall. $$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. $$$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. $$$ Crafts of the Season at the Fairmount Park Charms, Phila. Each historic home features creative activities and workshops, as well as demos by local artists. $$ Family Arts Academy: Bringing It Together at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Mix watercolor paints and string to collaborate on designs that tell a story with color and shape. FREE German-American Weekend at Christmas Village, Phila. See Dec. 14. FREE Holiday Tea at the Milton Theatre, Milton. Join Frozen’s Elsa, the Grinch and other characters for tea and snacks. $ Latke Fest at Albert Einstein Academy, Wilmington. Little ones listen to Hanukkah stories and learn to make potato pancakes. $

DECEMBER 2019

mk

Family Fun

Photos with Santa at Milburn Orchards, Elkton, MD. FREE Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. See Dec. 1. $$$ Yuletide Brunch with Santa at the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, Wilmington. $$$$

20 Friday

Frozen Night at Franklin Square, Phila. Come in costume to enjoy activities and sing-alongs. FREE

21 Saturday

Gingerbread Decorating and Ornament Making at Victory Christian Fellowship, New Castle. FREE Jingle All the Way to the Jurassic at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Learn about the living relatives of dinosaurs during animal presentations, meet-and-greets and crafts. $$ Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. See Dec. 1. $$$ Winter Solstice Labyrinth Walk at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. FREE

22 Sunday

Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. See Dec. 1. $$$ Yuletide Brunch with Santa at the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, Wilmington. $$$$

23 Monday

Santa Claus Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad's Greenbank Station, Wilmington. See Dec. 1. $$$

25 Wednesday

Being ___ at Christmas at the National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila. This celebration features a performance by Alex and the Kaleidoscope, plus storytime and crafts. $$$

26 Thursday

PERFORMANCES Disney’s Frozen Jr. at the Delaware Children’s Theatre, Wilmington.

Through Dec. 14. $$$ A Christmas Story: The Musical at Clear Space Theatre, Rehoboth Beach. Through Dec. 15. $$$$ A Christmas Carol at the Delaware Theatre Company, Wilmington.

Dec. 4-29. $$$$ Elf: The Musical at Clear Space Theatre, Rehoboth Beach. Dec. 6-8. $$$$ The Nutcracker (pictured) at the Playhouse on Rodney Square, Wilmington. Performed by the Wilmington Ballet. Dec. 14 & 15. $$$$ The Nutcracker at Mitchell Hall, Newark. Performed by the Delaware Dance Academy.

Dec. 20-22. $$$$ The Nutcracker at Copeland Hall, Wilmington. Performed by First State Ballet Theatre. Dec. 21 & 22. $$$$

30 Monday

Discovery Days: Roaring into the New Year at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. See Dec. 27. $$$ Winter Break: Holiday Habitats at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. Discover how animals habitats play into winter survival. $$$$

31 Tuesday

New Year’s Rockin’ Noon at the Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington. Celebrate early with a countdown and confetti-cannon blast. $$ Noon Year’s Eve at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. Festivities include games, crafts and a sparkling-cider toast. $ Winter Break: Holiday Habitats at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. See Dec. 30. $$$$

Winter Break: 10 Crucial Days at the Museum of the American Revolution, Phila. Explore stories of those who experienced this period of the Revolutionary War. Costumed interpreters and demos are also part of the mix. $$$$

27 Friday

Discovery Days: Roaring Into the New Year at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Activities include science activities, crafts and live animal encounters. $$$ Hanukkah and Kwanzaa Celebration at Franklin Square, Phila. Festivities include games and crafts, FREE Winter Break: 10 Crucial Days at the Museum of the American Revolution, Phila. See Dec. 26. $$$$

28 Saturday

Discovery Days: Roaring into the New Year at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. See Dec. 27. $$$

29 Sunday

Discovery Days: Roaring into the New Year at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. See Dec. 27. $$$ Jr. Engineers: Optical Engineering at the Delaware Children’s Museum, Wilmington. $$

DECEMBER 2019

MetroKids.com 13

N E W C AS TL E C O U N T Y

0

CE LEB RATE

N E W CA S TLE D E. G OV/ S PECIA LEV EN TS D E C . 6 & 7 H O L I D A Y O PE N H O US E @ R O C KW O O D P AR K DEC. 1 3 T REE LIG HT IN G & HOL ID AY MA RKET @ G LASG O W PARK

COUNTY EXECUTIVE M ATT MEYER DEPA RTMENT OF C OMM UNITY SERV ICES DIVISION OF COMM UNITY RESOURCES

DELAWARE DANCE COMPANY

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

The NuTcracker

A MAgicAl FAMily trAdition in newArk For 36 yeArs!

december 20 7:00pm

december 21 2:00pm & 7:00pm

december 22 2:00pm

Mitchell Hall, University of Delaware • Tickets $15-$35 • www.DelawareDanceCompany.org

Special Meet & Greet • Saturday at NooN • $10 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

168 South Main Street, Suite 101, Newark, DE, 19711 • 302-738-2023 • www.delawaredancecompany.org

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DECEMBER 2019

Your Future Begins Here

How to turn a learner into a

Leader...

Encourage Curiosity.

Inspire Imagination.

Nurture Creativity.

Foster Independence.

Begin NOW.

Join us for an open house!

Thursday, January 9 at 9:30 a.m. or 5 p.m.

Saturday, January 11 at 10 a.m.

302-475-0555

1400 Harvey Road, Wilmington, DE 19810

www.wmsde.org

12 months - 8th grade