MetroKids - 0218 PA

YEARS 8 2

February 2018 • free Pennsylvania

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Mindful Practices

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TIPS TO SURVIVE

A MOM SICK DAY

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Exceptional Entrepreneurs MetroKids.com

Montessori Schools

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awaken imagination encourage independence develop courtesy and kindness create a spirit of joyful learning

Bala House Montessori School 27 Conshohocken St. Rd. Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 (610) 664-6767 balahouse.org 2 years 9 months by 9/1 through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

Blue Bell Montessori Children’s House 6024 Butler Pike Blue Bell, PA 19422 (215) 646-6816 mch2learn.org 18 months through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a visit.

Centre Square Montessori Schoolhouse and Centre Square Montessori Academy 1775 Skippack Pike Blue Bell, PA 19422 610-275-1775 or 610-291-9733 Centre SquareMontessori.com Infant through 3rd grade Please call to arrange a tour.

Children’s House of Exton 125 South Village Avenue Exton, PA 19341 (610) 363-1446 chemontessori.com 2 years 9 months through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

Clementine Montessori School 2013 Appletree Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 (215) 717-1572 clementinemontessori.org 2 years 9 months through 6 years by 9/1 Please call to arrange a tour.

Early Learning at Beth Sholom Congregation Montessori and Traditional Programs 8231 Old York Road Elkins Park, PA 19027 (215) 887-3625 ext 223 eweingram@bethsholomcongregation.org 6 weeks through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

A Keystone 4 Star Program Gladwyne Montessori 920 Youngsford Road Gladwyne, PA 19035 610-649-1761 gladwyne.org 2 years through 6th grade Open House: April 24, 2018 at 9:30 AM Please call to schedule a visit.

Greene Towne Montessori School 2121 Arch Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 (215) 563-6368 gtms.org 18 months through Kindergarten Open House: April 17, 6:30 p.m. RSVP Please call to arrange a tour.

Horsham Montessori Children’s House 220 Upland Avenue Horsham, PA 19044 (215) 957-1571 mch2learn.org nona@mch2Learn.org 18 months through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a visit.

International Montessori Schools 6 locations: Paoli, Malvern, Great Valley, Royersford, West Chester and Wilmington, DE imschools.net 6 weeks through 4th grade Please call to arrange a tour at 484-661-0584 Media Children’s House 3301 Concord Road Aston, Pa 19014 (610) 485-8950 mediachildrenshouse.com 18 months through kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour or visit our website.

Middletown Montessori School 28 S. New Middletown Road Media, PA. 19063 (610) 891-7214 middletownmontessorischool.com 18 months through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

The Children’s House of Bucks County 840 Trenton Road Fairless Hills, PA 19030 (215) 943-3656 chbcmontessori.org 18 months through 6th grade Please call to arrange a visit.

Montessori Children’s House of Valley Forge 1630 Thomas Road Wayne, PA 19087 (610) 783-0110 mchvf.org 2 years through Kindergarten; Parent Toddler Class for 12 – 24 months Please call to arrange a tour.

The Montessori School (Dresher) 1701 Jarrettown Road Dresher, PA 19025 (215) 542-0740 discovertms.org 18 months through 6th grade Call us for a personal tour.

Montessori Community School of Newtown 6 Penns Trail, Suite 100 Newtown, PA 18940 (215) 493-2222 mcsnewtown.com 18 months through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

Montessori Development Center 84 East Oakland Ave. Doylestown, PA 18901 215-794-0162 mdckids.org 2 years through 6 years Please call to arrange a tour.

Norwood-Fontbonne Academy 8891 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19118 (215) 247-3811 x 204 norfon.org 3 year-olds through 9 year-olds (Grade Three) Open House dates during the year.

Please call to schedule a tour.

Ted DiRenzo Montessori School 709 Bartram Avenue Collingdale, PA 19023 (610) 586-0452 tdrmont.net 6 weeks through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

The Montessori School (Morrisville) 501 West Maple Avenue Morrisville, PA 19067 (215) 295-1170 TMS-Montessori.com Preschool through Kindergarten Tours available on Mondays by appointment The Walden School 901 North Providence Road Media, PA 19063 (610) 892-8000 thewaldenschool.org 2.5 yrs. through 8th grade Please call to arrange a tour on Wednesdays from 9:30 -11:00 a.m.

November - May The Wetherill School 1321 Beaumont Drive Gladwyne, PA 19035 (610) 649-2299 info@wetherillschool.org wetherillschool.org 2 years 7 months by 9/1 through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

Waldron Mercy Academy 513 Montgomery Avenue Merion Station, PA 19066 610-664-9847 ext. 113 www.waldronmercy.org/montessori 3-year-olds through grade 8 Open Houses: March 6 and April 10 at 9 am or drop in any Tuesday for Take-a-Tour Tuesday

MONTESSORI EDUCATION WEEK: FEBRUARY 25 - MARCH 3, 2018

Contents

February 2018 • Vol. 29, No. 2

CAMP 2018

Camp 2018 16 Adventure Camps 18 Trends 20 2018 Camp Directory

In This Issue 4 Grammy-Nominated Kids’ Music 6 How to Survive a Mom Sick Day 8 Clear Paths to Straight Teeth 10 Exceptional Entrepreneurs 11 Win It! 12 Mindful Montessori 14 How to Raise a Saver

Kids grow SO FAST! Most budgets don’t.

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Family Fun 27 Diversity Museums 28 Day-by-Day Events Calendar Ad Sections 9 Health; 15 Schools; 17 Camp; 32 Childcare

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FEBRUARY 2018

MetroKids.com 3

Music

Grammy-Nominated and Roots-Based Kids’ Music

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

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

By Kathy O’Connell The Best Children’s Record 2018 Grammy nominees reflect our American cultural mosaic, bolstered by an African-rooted postcard that transcends cultures.

The nominees include: • Brighter Side by Gustafer Yellowgold • Feel What U Feel by Lisa Loeb • Lemonade by Justin Roberts • Rise Shine #Woke by Alphabet Rockers • Songs Of Peace & Love For Kids & Parents Around The World by Ladysmith Black Mambazo My favorite since its release, Justin Roberts’ Lemonade may be one of the all-time best kindie albums. Feel What U Feel brings Lisa Loeb’s spark to the wide world of emotional well-being. Nominated CDs from Alphabet Rockers and Gustafer Yellowgold made my 2017 Top 5 list.

Songs of Peace & Love for Kids & Parents Around the World from Ladysmith Black Mambazo reimagines the band’s classics for new generations, narrating their own story in a well-crafted musical postcard of traditional African family life. There is a universality inherent in this CD transcending generations, geography and language. mambazo.com Recommended song: “Sit Down and Make Peace” (“Ayhlalephansi”)

Understanding through music

As the world keeps getting smaller, the Putumayo Kids label keeps fostering understanding through music. Putumayo World Music has long been a leader in bringing a world of song to families.

Cuban Playground is Putumayo Kids’ latest release, a wonderful introduction to the neighbor we still don’t know very well. putumayo.com/putumayo-kids Recommended song: “Tumbando Mangos”/ Adonis Puentes

Publisher: Darlene Weinmann, ext. 108 dweinmann@metrokids.com Whether they’re used as language teaching tools, a bridge to elders or musical enrichment, these artists share their stories with brilliant music: Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band’s Made in LA is inspired by the birth of Lucky and Alisha’s baby (in LA!), but speaks directly to any kid and any family. They are the best of the best, moving seamlessly between Spanish and English. luckydiazmusic.com Recommended song: “Palentero Man” Nathalia’s background as a musical therapist informs her splendid CD catalog, with simple pop tunes that pack a musical wallop. nathaliamusic.com Recommended song: “Sueno Feliz” Moona Luna rocks. Bandleader Sandra Velazquez brings fun and flair to her best CD “Panorama,” imagining a road trip through South America. moonalunamusic. com Recommended song: “Panorama” 123Andres reaches his young audience with basic concepts that teach painlessly and entertain effortlessly. He is truly a future superstar of the genre. 123andres.com Recommended song: “Cosquillas” Mister G (aka Ben Gundersheimer)’s 2017 release Mundo Verde/Green World is a delightful bilingual collection of earth-friendly songs, created through collaborations with musicians throughout the Spanish-speaking world. mistergsongs. com Recommended song: “Mundo Verde” Kathy O’Connell is a contributing writer to MetroKids and host of the Peabody awardwinning Kids Corner, on air MondayThursday from 7-8pm on WXPN 88.5 FM.

Family and heritage

Family and heritage are at the heart of several CDs celebrating artists’ personal roots. The list of terrific bilingual kindie albums grows every day, reaching new audiences through language and tradition.

4 MetroKids.com

Go to MetroKids.com/kidsmusic for the full music review, plus links and videos for these CDs.

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: Susan Braverman, ext. 100 marketing@metrokids.com

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

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

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Mom Matters

HOW TO SURVIVE A MOM SICK DAY

By Sarah Lyons We do what we can to avoid it, but at some point, the inevitable will happen.

Mom will get sick. Enjoying a quiet, restful day in bed is not an option for most mothers. What’s a mom to do?

Here are some tips to help you survive a “Mom Sick Day”:

Call in the reinforcements

In some cases, the working parent may be able to stay home and help with the kids, but often this is not a feasible option. “Don’t be too proud to call in reinforcements if necessary,” advises mom Becky Baldridge. Ask friends and family to take the kids to school or help cook dinner. Most friends are willing to help, especially if you offer to return the favor in the future.

Simplify meals

For a sick mommy, feeding her family can be a huge challenge. Keep it simple by ordering takeout, raiding the freezer or letting the kids eat cereal for dinner.

“I’ve had my husband order, pay for and have pizza delivered from work, because when I’m sick, preparing meals is impossible,” says Rodganna Avery, mom of three.

or play with blocks. “I have a secret stash of toys that I only bring out when I’m sick,” says Jessi Cole, mom of three “Since they are rarely out, my kids think it’s a huge treat.” Try having the kids read a book aloud or put on a puppet show for you while you rest. When mom is sick, the goal is to keep the kids entertained, but as quiet as possible throughout the day.

Let go of “normal”

Plan ahead

Many families limit the amount of screen time their children are allowed each day, but when mom is sick it’s OK to relax the rules. “I let them watch TV all day and I lay on the couch and sleep.

I feel better the next day because I get rest,” says LouAnn Cunningham. Allowing extra TV or video-game time helps to entertain the kids so mom can rest.

Mother of six, Chrissy Roussel, says “When you are sick, just focus on making sure they’re fed and changed. Let go of the ‘normal’ parenting rules for a few days.” It won’t hurt the kids to have one or two days of extra screen time and they will probably enjoy it as well.

More entertainment

What do you do when TV time gets old? Build a fort, get out craft supplies,

6 MetroKids.com

The last tip is one you can do in advance. Before you get the first hint of a runny nose or sore throat, prepare for when you do. Set some special toys and movies aside for your sick day, keep easy-to-prepare snacks and freezer meals on hand and teach your kids to prepare simple meals like sandwiches or cereal so they can help themselves when needed.

As moms, we do so much for our families and when we aren’t feeling well, a smoothly run household can spiral out of control fast. It’s OK to let the house go and rely on others for a few days. If mom has time to rest, she should be back to her old self in no time.

Sarah Lyons is a busy mother of six children, including 3-year-old triplets.

FEBRUARY 2018

unleash the

adventure gsep.org/camp

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania offers day camps and overnight camps that are open to all girls ages 5–17. SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID ARE AVAILABLE.

Health

Advances in Teeth-Straightening Technology

By Nicole D. Crawford In an already challenging time of life, parents of tweens will need to consider the possibility of orthodontic treatment to combat dental problems such as crowded teeth, over- and underbites, excessively spaced teeth and the effects of thumb-sucking, which impact straight teeth and jaw alignment. For many, treatment – which typically begins between the ages of 9 and 14 according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) – will include traditional metal, ceramic or self-ligating braces, clear aligners or other appliances. Luckily, the dental specialty of orthodontics has new and emerging technology for doctors, patients and parents to consider that will positively impact his or her smile.

Clear aligners: Invisalign

In orthodontics, “the current trend is the popularity of Invisalign,” says Dr. Robert Stern of Stern Orthodontics in Cherry Hill, NJ. “It’s the best of the bunch.” Like all clear aligners, Invisalign is virtually undetectable. The technology involves a series of thin, removable plastic trays designed to fit a person’s teeth. Each aligner is worn for two to three weeks and moves teeth a fraction of a millimeter at a time. The technology is recommended for ages 11 and up.

Although Invisalign has been in existence since 2000, “every year they improve the plastic technology,” says Dr. Ali Husain of Delaware Orthodontics in Newark,

DE. “It’s more flexible and resilient.” In addition, Invisalign is used in conjunction with intraoral scanners, 3D computer-graphics technology that has impacted the profession greatly.

Dentistry gone digital

“All of dentistry is headed toward 3D imagery,” says Dr. Stern. In addition to intraoral scanners, which digitally capture images of a patient’s teeth and gums, orthodontists are also making use of 3D printers to study and design personalized treatment plans. Prior to the emergence of 3D technology, orthodontists used mold impressions to aid in tailoring a plan for the patient.

With this new technology, “it is faster, accurate and more comfortable for the patient,” says Dr. Husain.

Accelerated orthodontics

As it relates to advances in dentistry, Dr. Orhan Tuncay of the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, says “there’s been an interest in moving teeth faster.” That new school of treatment, referred to as accelerated orthodontics, aims to shorten the time needed to straighten the teeth during treatment. The average orthodontic treatment lasts 22 months. With accelerated orthodontics, treatment could be curtailed to several months or

8 MetroKids.com

to less than a year. The PROPEL System and AcceleDent are two of the types of this emerging technology. PROPEL involves a minorly invasive surgical procedure, while AcceleDent relies on vibrating technology. Both systems work in conjunction with any current orthodontic devices, including braces and clear aligners. This type of technology, Dr. Stern advises, is an option only for teens and adults.

Parents will have to consider many factors when deciding on orthodontic treatment for their kids. Dr. Tuncay advises parents to ask questions and to only seek the treatment of a trained orthodontist. Dr. Husain says parents should understand that orthodontics is the fun part of dentistry. “We make it fun for kids; we make the environment easygoing and jovial. When treatment is finished, you look better. It’s a different feeling than going to a dentist. Parents should feel excited about coming in and we do our part to help the child.”

“Traditional braces are still most commonly used,” says Dr. Stern. “I think clear aligners will increase over time.”

Nicole D. Crawford is a freelance writer.

FEBRUARY 2018

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SpecialKids

Exceptional Entrepreneurs Start a Business, Create a Career Path

By Debra Wallace As a loving mom, Sue Tuckerman says she is deeply concerned about the “astronomical unemployment rate” for adults with special needs. She wanted a brighter future for Mike and Eddie, her 20-yearold identical-twin sons with autism.

So, just before Christmas 2015, her Philadelphia family started a small business on the online craft site Etsy selling holiday wrapping paper designed by her sons.

Called The Tuckerboys, the business initially offered Christmas and Hanukkah wrapping paper. Then they added birthday and Valentine’s Day paper, T-shirts and coffee mugs, all designed by her sons.

“Ever since my boys were little they liked to draw, and were pretty good at it,” says Tuckerman. “We wanted to use their strengths and we hope to build a business big enough to sustain them when they finish school in a year and a half.” The boys receive vocational training at school “but in case that doesn’t work out, we wanted to have a safety net in place for them,” she says.

“When we started, we didn’t know how the boys would respond,” Tuckerman adds, “because sometimes they seem indifferent or like they’re not paying attention. But we are building skills with every aspect (of their business).

They help fill orders and write thank-you notes and receipts.

“This has been so much more successful than we thought it would be.

The interaction and pride we see on their faces when they are selling their items at vendor events is simply priceless.”

Learn to work at a young age

A 2015 United Nations study estimated that 80 percent of adults with autism are unemployed. A 2013 Drexel University study had similar findings. This high unemployment rate and lack of a sense of purpose for teens and adults with special needs is a major concern of autism expert

10 MetroKids.com

Temple Grandin, PhD, a Colorado State University professor.

“I’m seeing two pathways: Either they learn how to work at an early age and do really well in the workplace, or they are in the bedroom or basement playing video games,” observes Grandin, a noted author who has a form of autism.

Brew a new business

Inspired two years ago by his daughter, Alicia, 29, who has autism, Jim Wurster became interested in starting a bakery-café. By his side was his friend, Tom Reinke, whose daughter, Mary Beth, 27, has cerebral palsy.

“As parents we looked for long-term solutions, because the hard, cold truth is that someone needs to be around for our daughters when we are gone,” says Wurster.

“The keys for our children are just like they are for anyone’s grown kids: socialization, employment, housing and transportation, and all of these fit together. The mission here is to make their lives better.”

Wurster connected with Dave Baldwin of Furnace Hills Coffee in Westminster, MD, a business that Baldwin started for his adult daughter, who has Down syndrome, and plans began to gel.

Working through the New Avenue Foundation, Wurster teamed up with restaurateur Frank Agovino, and last May launched the Media Bean Company in Media, PA. It employs workers with disabilities and aims to spread a message of acceptance.

Agovino, owner of the Media shop as well as DiFabio’s restaurant, has a 21-year-old nephew with a disability.

A portion of the Media Bean Company’s sales benefits the New Avenue Foundation. “Who knows,” says Wurster, “maybe we can change the world, with one good cup of coffee at a time?”

Create an ice-cream option

Inspired by a similar calling, Alex Viele, father of a typical boy, 16, and an 18-yearold son with autism, started the nonprofit Nightlight Foundation three years ago. It raises money for a group home in the Philadelphia suburbs for adults with autism.

Viele partnered with friends Dave Masterson, Damien Park and Daniel McGowan last June to open Nightlight Ice Cream, a seasonal ice-cream and water-ice shop in Flourtown, PA that employs teens with special needs.

“The community response has been extremely positive,” Viele says, “especially when people understand that every penny of profit from this business goes to our autism foundation. ” He hopes to expand to additional locations.

Both of Viele’s sons work at the shop.

The experience has made a positive impact, especially on his older son. “He enjoys pouring sugar and water into containers and you can see his sense of accomplishment when he is being productive. He feels pretty happy when he’s there.”

Tuckerman advises other parents and caregivers to take the entrepreneurial plunge. “If you think there is a possibility that it could work, why not try it?

With the outlook for their employment not so bright, we have to step in.”

Debra Wallace is a freelance writer.

FEBRUARY 2018

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GROUNDHOG DAY Sat, Feb 3 @ 1:30 The Crayola Magic Scene Creator* transforms still pictures into animations. Place any of the 70 provided motion cards on the tablet screen — or design your own — and watch it move! Kids might create a car with spinning wheels or a bird with flapping wings.

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MetroKids.com 11

Education

Montessori Promotes Mindful Learning

By Malia Jacobson Young children aren’t usually known for intense concentration. To the contrary, kids are expected to bounce from one activity to another, with the attention span of a gnat. That’s why many parents are surprised by what they see when they tour a Montessori school: children as young as age 3 engaged in independent, focused work for long stretches.

Parents are just as surprised by what they don’t see — teachers lecturing and prodding kids to complete assigned work.

Erica Stroud of Wilmington, DE, has twin daughters who attend Wilmington Montessori School. “My kids have very different social and instructional needs in the classroom,” she says, “and Montessori education benefits them both in varying ways; it uses their strengths to empower and encourage their learning.”

“Ellie is extremely motivated by the order the Montessori classroom provides,” Erica says of her daughter. “When she first began at WMS, she was provided with the freedom to access and explore the Montessori materials at her own pace based on her own interests.”

Her other daughter, Taylor, “learns best in a community in which she feels the strong connection with her peers and teachers. She has gained a true sense of concentration and loves the independence the class structure provides.” Both children have individualized work plans.

“When students are self-directed, they are instantly a step closer to a state of mindfulness,” says Laurie Orsic, assistant head of school at Wilmington Montessori. “As students select work from the learning materials set out by their teachers or follow their own academic interests, they are more likely to delve deeply in academic activities.”

This ability to focus at a young age is a hallmark of Montessori education, but it’s revolutionary to parents who haven’t seen a Montessori classroom in action.

Montessori learning is hardly novel — Dr. Maria Montessori’s first school opened its doors in 1907. But a trend toward mindfulness in education is sparking new interest in this century-old style of

12 MetroKids.com

education and new science is showing how this type of learning benefits today’s young minds.

Master mindfulness

Just what is mindfulness, exactly, and why does it matter? Steven J. Hughes, PhD, a pediatric neuropsychologist who specializes in attention, concentration, planning and organizing — a set of skills known as executive functions — defines mindfulness as “sustained positive engagement.” Other scientists refer to a “flow” state of prolonged, energized work that produces both calm satisfaction and profound joy in learning.

“Children are inherently curious, and the natural way for them to learn is to touch, hold, manipulate,” says Diane Force, school director at Bala House Montessori in Bala Cynwyd, PA. “You just have to watch a toddler discover something new.” This sense of wonder is part of the essence of Montessori education.

“More than 110 years ago, Dr. Montessori knew that social/emotional (SE) skills in the young child were more important than academics,” Force explains.

“Thanks to current research, we now know that strong SE skills in childhood are directly related to being successful as an adult. So she designed her curriculum to include SE learning.”

A Montessori classroom curriculum also includes grace and courtesy lessons, as well as an emphasis on conflict resolution, self-regulation, emotional control and how to be part of a community.

Lindsey Schontz, mother of Graham, age 5, who attends Bala House Montessori, reports, “At home, he’s progressed from barely staying focused for five minutes to being able to work to complete a task diligently for an hour. I cannot say enough good things

about the impact of the Montessori way on Graham’s behavior, conflict resolution, communication and general happiness.”

Whole body, whole mind

Dr. Montessori didn’t coin the term “mindfulness,” but she was an early advocate for sustained focus and internal motivation. Her methods deliberately encourage intense concentration as the best context for early learning.

“The focus is on the process, not the product, and on the social/emotional skills, not the academic,” Force says. She adds that classrooms are designed to feel “homey” and kids are encouraged to explore and discover based on their own timetable.

Amanda and Brad Cooper of Spring City, PA, have two sons enrolled at Valley Forge Kinder House Montessori School in Limerick. “The ability for our children to explore and learn at their own pace has given our boys comfort, self-discipline and most importantly a love of learning,” they report. “Dr. Montessori’s research led her to find that children through age 6 have a greater

Continued on p. 14 FEBRUARY 2018

Education ability to absorb quickly and effortlessly.

Having our boys in Montessori from an early age has given us comfort that they are absorbing all they can.”

Environment, schedule & shared focus

A carefully prepared environment, a key component of Montessori learning, promotes focus. In Montessori classrooms, educational materials — from child-size brooms to lacing cards to counting beads — are designed to be aesthetically appealing and accessible for young children.

Students choose their own work from a palette of developmentally appropriate options that grow progressively complex and challenging.

Montessori schools incorporate concrete learning goals into a child’s educational plan, but children are free to choose when and how to complete their work within a specified timeframe.

“It’s vital that students have a sense of agency about their own learning, as well as the ability to participate fully in lessons with their teachers and classmates,” Orsic stresses. “Students learn to concentrate, explore, observe, examine and study. They be-

come students who are present in the moment and ready to learn.”

During a 90-minute work period, children can take a task through its beginning, middle and end. This natural sequence promotes competence and mastery; kids can repeat the activity as many times as they want without being told to hurry up and move on to something else.

Though the terms focus and concentration might conjure up images of a child working alone, mindfulness isn’t always a solo pursuit. Montessori-style learning helps kids learn the fine art of shared concentration by encouraging them to engage in tasks with a classmate or two — a critical skill in the age of teamwork.

Benefits of being mindful

How does this Montessori-style mindfulness benefit children? Montessori aims to teach the skills necessary to be a good learner and to follow individual passions. It also strives to teach executive functions that are needed for higher learning. Children learn how to quiet their bodies to focus and concentrate, notes Force. “Their work develops

fine-motor control, visual discrimination and left-right progression, which are all prerequisites for academic learning.”

But mindfulness isn’t something teachers can achieve for students. Like every other outcome in Montessori learning, students have to work toward it themselves. “Children are able to practice selfhelp skills, problem solving and collaboration as part of what they do every day as a member of a community,” says Cathy Lopez-Cooling, head of school at Children’s House Montessori School in Wilmington, DE. Narberth, PA mom Catherine, whose son Gabe is a student at Bala House Montessori, says she appreciates the focus on mindfulness in everyday tasks, both socially and academically. “It encourages him to be a good citizen and to be interested in the world around him.”

Malia Jacobson is a freelance writer.

WE HELP THEM

LEARN. GROW. THRIVE. Choose a childcare program that’ll bring out the best in your child, one with expert staff focused on building and expanding skills, and keeping fun in the formula.

Choose the Y! Childcare (Infant to Pre-K) Academic Preschool Montessori STEM & ARTS (STEAM) Preschool Academy Kindergarten The YMCA is a cause-driven charitable organization that provides financial assistance for programs. Ask us for details.

Visit www.ymcagbw.org/childcare or contact a branch today.

BRANDYWINE YMCA • JENNERSVILLE YMCA • KENNETT AREA YMCA LIONVILLE COMMUNITY YMCA • OCTORARA YMCA PROGRAM CENTER OSCAR LASKO YMCA AND CHILDCARE CENTER UPPER MAIN LINE YMCA • WEST CHESTER AREA YMCA branches of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine

FEBRUARY 2018

MetroKids.com 13

Parenting

Help Your Child Develop Good Saving Habits

By Kimberly Blaker Sallie Mae’s 2016 “Majoring in Money” report states that students ages 18 to 24 carried an average credit card debt of $906 in 2015. This exemplifies the point made by Sallie Mae in a 2013 report that credit card usage isn’t going to go away.

The average credit card balance carried by college students in the 2013 report was just $499. So if anything, it indicates credit card use, at least by young adults, is on the rise.

Credit card responsibility is crucial to kids’ future financial wellbeing. And there’s good news for those who learn and develop good saving habits early in life: They’re more prepared to develop into financially responsible adults.

The younger set

You can start teaching with values of coins, around the ages of 4 to 6. Keep it simple. Allow your child to earn money from small chores to save in a piggy bank.

Elementary-aged

An allowance, starting around age 7, is essential to help kids learn about money and develop good habits. Familiarize your children with banking. Open a savings account so they can watch their money grow. Also, help set achievable goals, such as saving for a new toy or putting away money gifted during the holidays.

Keep in mind, many banks charge service fees unless a minimum balance is kept and frequent trips to the bank may

14 MetroKids.com

be impossible. As an alternative, set up your own “family bank.” Give your child a spare checkbook ledger or savings passbook. Then copy blank savings deposit and withdrawal slips from your bank for your children to use. Require them to fill out the slips and log transactions in the ledger. Also give your children monthly interest for their savings so they can experience the immediate reward of saving money.

The teen scene

Designer clothing, entertainment and car expenses are the biggest areas of teen spending. Some teens also save for college. But few are prepared for the adult world, writes developmental psychologist Nancy J. Cobb in Adolescence: Continuity, Change, and Diversity. That’s because most teens aren’t primed for the responsibility of paying for food, housing and health care costs.

Teens involved with the family budget and who contribute to family expenses learn valuable lessons. Showing teens the spending categories in which they have a direct impact on family expenses is helpful. Also, agree on a reasonable amount which your teens can contribute to help cover those expenses. It’ll go a long way toward preparing teens for adulthood.

Teens’ work hours should be limited to no more than 10 to 15 per week. According to Cobb, researchers have found adolescents who work, especially 20 or more hours per week, are not as engaged in school as their nonworking peers.

Tips your kids can bank on

Help your child develop good saving and spending habits: Allow children to make some of their own spending decisions. Place reasonable limits and offer appropriate guidance but allow them the chance to learn from their mistakes.

Don’t give your children money every time they ask for it. Instead, make a loan with occasional opportunities for them to learn the costs of borrowing and the experience of loan repayment.

Charge interest on loans so children learn the cost of borrowing.

Realize, regardless of how financially savvy we raise our kids to be, borrowing does have its place. At the very least, it’s often necessary or practical for acquiring a college education, reliable transportation and a home.

Don’t be completely secretive about family finances. Children have few opportunities to see and experience the financial side of the adult world.

This doesn’t mean you should disclose everything. But it’s easier for kids to understand if they can see it in concrete terms. Develop a detailed household budget, then explain it so your adolescent can see how your family spends and why.

Kimberly Blaker is a parenting and lifestyle freelance writer.

FEBRUARY 2018

GREENE STREET FRIENDS SCHOOL open house dates:

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MetroKids.com 15

Camp

ON EXPEDITIONS, Youths Discover Themselves

By Lynda Dell Summer expedition programs such as Outward Bound and Earthwatch Institute broaden teens’ perspective of the world, of others and themselves. Through them, youths discover that they are far more capable than they realized, says Katie Newsom Pastuszek, executive director of Philadelphia Outward Bound School.

she says.

They learn how to be self-sufficient and self-reliant in their actions and activities as a team, moving themselves, their gear and their crew along a trail or river site.

As they build skills, instructors assess campers and give them more responsibility, notes Kim Glodek, associate program director.

A powerful learning experience

Philadelphia Outward Bound team-building exercise.

The Philadelphia Outward Bound School’s summer enrollment programs serve students from PA, NJ and DE, in three age groups: 12-13, 14-16 and 16-18.

Aside from the adrenaline rush experienced from backpacking in the Appalachian Mountains or white-water rafting along the Delaware River in a team-fashioned raft, their expeditions can be transformative learning experiences that foster collaborative work and responsible group decision making.

Boston-based Earthwatch is an international environmental nonprofit that “brings individuals from all walks of life together with world-class scientists to work for the good of the planet,” according to its website.

Experience the wilderness

In its “experience-based outdoor leadership programs,” Outward Bound’s instructors teach students to use their own resources. “An Outward Bound experience builds character, inspires leadership and inspires within our students service to the environment and each other. It’s all about the perceived risks and experiencing wilderness in a natural setting,” says Pastuszek.

As a crew, campers surmount natural challenges such as weather. For example, “they learn how to tie knots correctly to hang their tarps to keep their stuff dry,”

16 MetroKids.com

University of Pennsylvania psychologist Angela Duckworth maintains in her book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance that the most reliable predictor of student success in life is grit — not IQ or talent — and that anyone can learn to be gritty.

“The genius of the Outward Bound is that it is very good at creating a positive, collaborative climate, so when the going gets tough, the youth mobilize to support and encourage the group,” says Reed Larson of the University of Illinois, who is conducting Outward Bound grit research for the Duckworth Foundation. “Mentors create a kind of safety net to help youth learn to talk about it, think about it and recognize that they can exceed their expectations.”

Conduct conservation research

“Generally, going abroad is the best way to reset your thinking about the world, especially when you are figuring out who you are and what you want to do,” says Keegan Dougherty, senior expedition advisor at the Earthwatch Institute.

For 15-year-olds Earthwatch offers three different ways to travel. One way is as an individual who joins a team united by a common interest, “whether it is turtle research in the Bahamas or archaeology in Belize. They get to know their teammates, the research, the site and the culture,” Dougherty says.

Another program is with a teacher and group of their peers from school. A third approach enables adults to take their children on an expedition, Dougherty explains.

CAMP

Earthwatch guides teams through various stages until they become a cohesive group. Facilitators guide youth through each stage, such as breaking the ice or laying the expedition groundwork, helping them resolve conflicts and put aside differences to work together seamlessly, says Dougherty.

Earthwatch participant Jacob Schenthal calls the experience life-changing. “During my expedition to Little Cayman to help research endangered coral reefs, I not only learned about issues, but was able to see my research and effort go toward a scientific organization to help combat global environmental issues,” he says.

Earthwatch students work alongside scientists studying climate change in Acadia Naitonal Park, ME.

Geologists such as Dougherty have seen dreams become real, achievable goals.

“It is mind blowing for kids to share their observations and be a part of actual research.”

Lynda Dell is a local freelance writer

Outward Bound Outward Bound emphasizes high achievement through active learning, teamwork and respect for others, explains Kim Glodek, an assistant program director at the Philadelphia Outward Bound School.

In 1992, a group of Philadelphia leaders established the Philadelphia Outward Bound School (POBS). The group’s intention was “to provide an Outward Bound experience for every student in Philadelphia’s public schools using scholarship funding and partnerships,” says Glodek. This year, POBS expects to serve more than 5,000 students.

There are 35 Outward Bound schools around the world, 11 of them in the U.S. continued on p. 20

FEBRUARY 2018

Echo Hill Camp on the Chesapeake Bay Sleep-away summer camp

Camp Lee Mar

145 boys and girls ages 7-16 2 - 8 week sessions June 24 - August 18, 2018 www.echohillcamp.com info@echohillcamp.com ph. 410.348.5303

2018 Dates: June 23-August 10

FEBRUARY 2018

CAMP

MetroKids.com 17

Camp Gardening & food-to-table programs

ion at Product Elmer, NJ p, Dance rt Cam arms A F el p p A

Kids ca Camp A vort on floa ts at rrowhea d, Lewes , DE

Camps Serve Up High ropes and climbing tower at Kirchenwald Camp, Lebanon, PA

Adventure, Arts and Altruism

By Terri Akman Sure, there will still be swimming, arts and crafts, bug juice and all the fun campers have always enjoyed. But this year kids might also harvest the food they’ll eat from organic gardens, build a robot or solve a crime-based mystery. Camps are evolving with the times, adding activities to keep their young charges engaged.

Fun through learning

“Parents don’t want their children having any summer learning loss,” says Tom Rosenberg, president of the American Camp Association. Subjects that are important during the school year, such as STEM – science, technology, engineering and math – are also popular among campers. Typical STEM programs include astronomy, space-related technology, robotics or physics, which is taught at one camp through go-carts.

Adventure

Recognizing that kids are seeking ways to test themselves, camps are adding adventures such as hiking and treks, ropes courses and water activities. Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Camp Arrowhead in Lewes, DE created “The Blob,” a space filled with blow-up floats and jumps in a shallow area along the beach. At Kirchenwald Camp in Lebanon, PA, kids take part in rock-climbing and mountain-biking programs.

18 MetroKids.com

“As campers get older, treks become longer and more challenging,” says Rosenberg.

Fine arts

Gone are the days of stringing Froot Loops to make a necklace or creating five-finger turkeys. Today’s arts and crafts involve painting, sculpting, jewelry making and glass blowing.

At Appel Farm Arts Camp in Elmer, NJ, campers create glass mosaic murals, noborigama wood-kiln ceramics and screen printings. That’s when they aren’t putting on theatrical presentations, singing and playing music.

“People realize that art plays such an important role in helping children with self-expression and identity,” says Cori Solomon, the camp’s executive director.

“They don’t know how to talk to each other, so in response, more camps are developing more intense art programs to help children connect with who they are and how they can express that. It gives them an outlet for emotion.”

Service learning

Most camps include some component of helping others, whether contributing back to the camp with a communal art project or going off property to help serve the needs of the local community. “Altruism is under-taught today,” says Rosenberg. “We need to teach our kids to give more than they receive to be service leaders.”

CAMP

Through learning how to garden, compost and eat nutritionally, campers are actually eating the fruits of their labor.

At Appel Farm, the children harvest the crops that are then served in the camp’s organic salad bar.

“We try to help the kids be aware of the food they are eating and why we made the choices we made,” says Solomon, who serves antibiotic-free milk and meat. “It’s important what our footprint is on the environment.”

Mystery games

Starting next summer, campers at Camp Kirchenwald will solve a cluebased mystery. Inspired by the Escape Room craze, the kids will decipher riddles and interpret clues, ultimately solving a mystery. “They’ll go on treasure hunt-style activities, maybe using fingerprint analysis and forensics,” says Camp Director Zachary Weiss.

Rookie trial programs

For families not quite ready for their child to be away for a week or more, some camps now offer three- or four-night rookie or trial camps. Kids get a taste of what the overnight camp experience is like, with the prospect of coming back the next year for a longer stay.

At Camp Arrowhead’s Taste of Camp, kids can choose the activities they want to try. Acknowledging they won’t have time to try everything, “we try to touch on major kinds of activities but also allow them time to cook out at the campfire,” said Executive Director Walt Lafontaine.

Family camp

For parents who want to share the camp experience with their kids, or who just aren’t quite ready to have their children go off on their own, some camps offer sessions that include the entire family. For example, Camp Arrowhead invites families to enjoy its 86 acres and all activities during Labor Day weekend.

Terri Akman is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

Visit metrokids.com/camps for a wide range of summer camps, searchable by activities, location, services offered and other criteria. The American Camp Association offers a find-a-camp tool at find.acacamps.org.

FEBRUARY 2018

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MetroKids.com 19

CAMP 2018

Directory

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

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

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

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

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania 330 Manor Rd. Headquarters: Miquon, PA Gsep.org/camp

DAY, PROGRAM, RESIDENTIAL Nobody does camp like Girl Scouts! Want to build exploding volcanoes, learn survival techniques like Katniss or whip up new recipes over a campfire? GSEP has got you covered.

We’ve got four resident and three day camps that are open to all girls — let camp be your first Girl Scouts SN ACA experience!

NEW iD Tech 1-888-709-8324 www.idtech.com

DAY iD Tech is the world’s #1 summer STEM program for ages 7-18 held at 150 prestigious universities including Carnegie Mellon, University Of Pennsylvania, Villanova University, Lehigh University, Arcadia University, Bryn Mawr College, West Chester University, Princeton University. With world-class instructors and innovative courses in coding, game development, robotics, and design, our programs instill in-demand skills that embolden students to shape the future.

Learn more at iDTech.com.

Lavner Camps!

PA, NJ and DE 610-664-8800 info@lavnercampsandprograms.com Lavnercampsandprograms.com

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Lavner Camps is the Leader in Summer Enrichment Camps. As the #1 CAMP EXPERIENCE IN SPORTS, TECHNOLOGY, & THE ARTS, we have AWARD WINNING SUMMER CAMPS at 14 Philadelphia Metro, New Jersey & Delaware locations, with 35+ Specialty Camps to choose from... an INCREDIBLE summer camp experience awaits for your child! Our Cutting-Edge Summer Camps include Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Robotics, Minecraft, Coding, Game Design, Culinary Arts, Fashion, Film & Lots More! Additional camp locations in NYC, Manhattan, Washington DC, St. Louis MO, Nashville TN & Los Angeles CA! Ages 6-15, ACA Co-ed. Space is limited, register now!

Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps.

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

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Engineering for Kids Multiple Locations 215-559-9233 greaterphila@ engineeringforkids.com Engineeringforkids.com/ greaterphila

DAY Engineering For Kids brings science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to kids in a fun and challenging way through camps, classes and parties.

We are proud to inspire children to build on their natural curiosity by teaching engineering concepts through hands-on learning.

ESF Summer Camps esfcamps.com info@esfcamps.com

DAY Our award-winning programs are filled with the perfect blend of educations, sports & fun. With 60+ activities for every interest, we offer the widest variety of experiences for boys and girls, ages 3-15.

LOCATIONS: 450 W. Lancaster Ave., Haverford Norwood-Fontbonne Academy, 8891 Germantown Ave., Chestnut Hill Montgomery School, 1141 Kimberton Rd., Chester Springs Episcopal Academy, 1785 Bishop White Dr., Newtown Sq.

Temple University Summer Education Camps 580 Meetinghouse Rd. Temple University Ambler; Ambler, Center City, Main Campus 267-468-8500 Temple.edu/summer/ youthcamps

DAY Temple University offers summer education camps at our Ambler, Center City and Main Campus locations. June, July & August. Camps include: Robotics, Gamemaker, Cartooning and Drawing, Screenwriting and Moviemaking, Interior Design & more.

Call 267-468-8500 or visit us on the web at temple.edu/summer/youthcamps.

Fleming Tech Camps Various locations incl. Cabrini University, Manor College info@flemingcamps.com Flemingcamps.com

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Learn digital arts, build robots, code, create video games, or make amazing Minecraft worlds! We focus on giving kids the tools they need to lead successful lives in the digital age. Hands-on experiences with computers, VR, drones, robots, 3D printers and other cool tech that encourages an interest in science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Camp Onas 609 Geigel Hill Rd. Ottsville, PA 610-847-5858 Camponas.org

RESIDENTIAL Camp Onas, the Quaker camp in Bucks Cty., PA, is for all kids ages 8-13. Campers live & play in a friendly, diverse community, choosing their own activities from a complete camp program. 2- & 4week sessions. Special 1-week sessions for first-time campers ages 7 & 8. ACA

Future Stars Day Camps 10 area locations 215-674-0494 info@futurestarscamps.com FutureStarsCamps.com

DAY With nearly 50 summers of experience, Future Stars offers the best camp experience. Our programs meet every child’s needs. Facilities boast air-conditioned classrooms & gymnasiums, swimming pools & playing fields. Campers can beat the heat in the AC & experience a full day’s schedule. For ages 4-13, Future Stars offers weekly rates & flexible scheduling. 10 Area Locations: Academy of Notre Dame - Villanova; Cabrini University - Radnor/Wayne; Cedar Crest College - Allentown; College of St. Elizabeth - Morristown, NJ; Delaware Valley University - Doylestown; Friends Select School - Center City, Philadelphia; La Salle College High School - Wyndmoor; The Phelps School - Malvern; St. Aloysius Academy - Bryn Mawr; The Shipley Lower School - Bryn Mawr

Camp RAD 130 Davisville Rd. Warminster, PA 215-572-0469; Camprad.net

DAY Camp RAD is located at the VE Club. We are committed to providing a fun and energetic summer full of daily activities, weekly entertainment, special events and field trips. June 11-Aug. 17. Daily and weekly options. Personal tours offered daily. Open House Dates: Jan. 27, Feb. 4 & 17, March 3 & 25, April 7 & 22 at 10am.

George School Day Camp 1690 Newtown Langhorne Rd. Newtown, PA 215-579-6500 Gsdaycamp.org

DAY Camp (GSDC) is committed to teaching children to play together in a warm and nurturing environment.

It is our goal to create a loving, fun and exciting camp experience sure to provide campers with wonderful memories for a lifetime. Established in 1977 and anchored by our caring staff, a summer at GSDC builds a sense of community and friendship that will last well into the future. We have been rated best day camp in CIT Bucks County for the past two years.

BUCKS

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

20 MetroKids.com

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CAMP 2018

Directory

Kids U! at Delaware Valley University 700 E. Butler Ave. Doylestown, PA delval.edu/kidsu

DELAWARE VALLEY UNIVERSITY

DAY Our Kids U! one-week specialty camps and academies feature science, digital arts, robotics, engineering, equine and more! Kids and teens ages 5 to 18 will have fun designing apps, working in a lab, interacting with animals, programming robots, building their own business, and other exciting activities!

CHESTER

NEW Summer Dance Camps at Pottstown Dance Theatre 72 W. Main St., Pottstown, PA 610-323-2569 Michelle@pottstowndance.com Pottstowndance.com

DAY Dance Camps for ages three to adult. Learn from a degreed international faculty. Call for details about the themes we offer. Study at the only dance school in the region chosen to perform in London during the 2012 Olympic Games!

DELAWARE

Academy of Notre Dame de Namur 560 Sproul Rd. Villanova, PA 610-687-0650 Ndapa.org/summercamp

DAY Summer is more fun when kids are inspired to discover a new passion, become a stronger athlete or learn a new skill. Notre Dame summer programs in Villanova include rowing, dance and sports camps for middle and high school girls. New this summer! Dance and science programs in Stone Harbor, NJ.

Agnes Irwin: Summer at AIS Ithan Ave. & Conestoga Rd. Rosemont, PA 610-672-1272 summer@agnesirwin.org Summeratais.org

DAY The Agnes Irwin School presents Summer at AIS: Adventures for the Independent Spirit, a program for boys and girls in grades PreK-12 that empowers campers to build their own week-long adventures!

Camp families can enjoy the freedom to create full- or half-day programs, sampling a variety of activities or focusing on a particular area of interest. Courses are available in the arts, athletics, academics and more for children to exercise their bodies, minds and creative spirits. Featuring new programming, including AIS Signature programs, Drobots Drone STEM programs, Walnut Street Theatre camps and more! Join us June 11-July 27 for an exciting summer experience that is designed for and by you!

Benchmark School Summer Camp 2107 N. Providence Rd. Media, PA; 610-565-3741 Admissions@benchmarkschool.org Benchmarkschool.org

DAY Language arts/reading instruction & recreation day camp. Individual math tutoring also available. 5 weeks: July 2 to Aug. 3. For children entering grades 1-6 who can benefit from reading instruction & enjoy day camp. Language arts instruction (1 3/4 hours daily) with half- or full-day recreation. Ropes & confidence course, sports, art adventure, science/ nature, swimming. After-camp care available from 4-5:45pm. SN

Club La Maison 215 Sugartown Rd. Wayne, PA 610-964-8800 camp@clublamaison.com Bit.ly/clmkids

DAY For more than 20 years, we have kept your kids safe and happy! We have weekly themes, swimming lessons, gardening, arts and crafts, indoor/outdoor pools, tennis courts, baseball field, playground and a clubhouse with games room, music and art room!

Community Arts Center — Summer Spree 414 Plush Mill Rd. Wallingford, PA 610-566-1713 CommunityArtsCenter.org

DAY Summer Spree is an arts camp for ages 4-17, offering visual art, music, outdoor fun and special activities. Half- or full-day options during one-week and two-week sessions, June through Aug. Experience the power of art in a magical place.

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 SN April 1 and save 10%!)

Friends School Haverford Day Camp 851 Buck Ln. Haverford, PA 610-642-2334, ext. 122 Friendshaverford.org

DAY Summer day camp for ages 3 yrs. to 8 yrs. Fullday program filled with arts & crafts, sports, games and nature exploration. Two-week sessions available from July 23-Aug. 24.

Summer Camp at The School in Rose Valley 20 School Ln. Rose Valley, PA 610-566-1088 summercamp@theschoolinrosevalley.org Theschoolinrosevalley.org/ summer

DAY Children ages 3-14 thrive at SRV’s summer camp on our beautiful 9-acre wooded campus. Weekly themes guide indoor & outdoor activities that include daily swim lessons, archery, art, woodshop, sports, dance, nature, drama, music, cooking and more.

Preschool program offers flexible enrollment; older children design their days with activities they love and teens participate in the counselor-in-training program. Two minutes from Media, PA.

Wayne Art Center’s Summer Art Camp 413 Maplewood Ave. Wayne, PA 610-688-3553 ext. 208 tessa@wayneart.org Wayneart.org

DAY, PROGRAM Join Wayne Art Center for our 34th season of Summer Art Camp, June 4-Aug. 24, 2018.

Over 200 age-appropriate classes are offered each year with 12 themed one-week sessions. Available classes include drawing and painting, ceramics, cartooning, cooking, fashion design, drama, jewelry and more! Our professional and engaging faculty will lead children ages 3-15 on an exciting journey of artistic self-discovery in our bright and airy studios. Full-and half-day programs are available for ages 5 & up, as well as TEEN Studio classes for students 12 and up looking to expand and improve their talents in small, focused classes with plenty of one-on-one instruction. Camp discounts available for both full-day registrants and early registrations. Volunteer opportunities available for teens ages 13 and up.

Young People’s Theatre Workshop (YPTW): Theatre Arts Summer Overnight Camp at Eastern University 363 Radford Ct. Glen Mills, PA 610-558-0988 yptw.org

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Overnight camp for ages 11-18 at Eastern University June 24- 29, 2018. Classes include musical comedy, Shakespeare, improv, monologues, dance characterization auditions, showtunes.

Air-conditioned dorms, good food, experienced staff of professional educators.

AIM Academy Summer Enrichment Program 1200 River Rd. Conshohocken, PA 215-483-2461 summer@aimpa.org Aimpa.org

DAY Explore STEAM activities and reinforce essential skills in reading, writing, math and college prep in a creative and dynamic enrichment environment. Campers enjoy opportunities to imagine, invent and play as well as three hours of daily literacy and academic SN instruction.

MONTGOMERY

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

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GEORGE SCHOOL DAY CAMP Established in 1977, George School Day Camp is open to boys and girls aged 4-14. Campers participate in a broad range of activities from swimming to equestrian, archery to the arts, and everything in between.

Located on the beautiful 240-acre George School campus in Bucks County.

Penn Charter Summer Camp Celebrates 50 Years A Q&A with Charlie Kaesshaefer, director of Penn Charter Summer Camps, who reflects on summer camps past and present.

Penn Charter Summer Camp is celebrating its 50th year. Tell me about your first year as a junior camp counselor 50 years ago.

When I was a sophomore at PC and interested in becoming a teacher, the director of our brandnew day camp told me I could be a junior counselor but he couldn’t put me on the payroll. Forty campers and 10 counselors did tennis, archery, art, music, swimming, sports and games. Our big events were the counselor hunt, capture the flag, and the carnival. We’ve continued these classic activities for 50 years. At the end of the summer I did get paid—$25. The director wrote a note that said: “I hope you’ll come back next year.”

a sand-sculpting contest, a treasure hunt and beach volleyball. During a trip to Independence Seaport Museum, the kids learned about pirates and Philadelphia seaport history.

What are some of the things you love most about Summer Camp?

I love watching the kids make new friends and try new activities that build confidence. I love watching friendships develop between kids and their counselors. Many of our campers develop an interest in working with children and later apply to be counselors. Often, this is their first job experience, and I have the privilege of mentoring them.

How do you come up with ideas for a new specialty camp?

PC teachers often propose— and run—specialty camps, such as Drone, Science Invention, and Science Engineering camps.

Innovations at PC such as the IdeaLab have helped spark new camps: Animation, Minecraft and Filmmaking make great use of the lab’s technology.

How do you keep Summer Camp fresh?

Each year we have a different summer theme, and we plan many of our activities, special events and trips around it. Our core group of counselors has been with us for decades in many cases, and yet we add new counselors each year who bring new ideas and renewed energy.

What are some of the best summer themes over the years?

Some of the most successful have been the Great Outdoors, Winter Wonderland and Olympic Summer.

My personal favorite is Tropical Paradise. We trucked in 50 tons of sand to build a “beach” where we held most of our special events like

Fifty years ago there was only Day Camp. Today there are more than 25 camps. Why so many specialty camps?

Growing beyond the basic day camp is a national trend. Kids have more varied interests, so we offer specific camps, everything from theater to tech, science to sports.

Campers can still enroll in the traditional Day Camp but can also mix and match with some specialty camps.

You are a longtime teacher as well as summer camp director.

What does traditional Day Camp do for the development of a child?

Kids get to interact with each other in a safe, positive and fun environment on a beautiful 47acre campus in Philadelphia. Being outside for much of the day is important for their physical, social and emotional development. While they get to take part in some of the traditional camp activities that we have offered for 50 years, they also get to try new things and mix it up with new camps. They get to experience healthy competition between bunks and color-contest teams, as well as challenge themselves by trying to make it to the next level in archery, tennis and swimming.

BUILD A SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND FRIENDSHIP THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME WWW.GSDAYCAMP.ORG George School Day Day 1690 Newtown Langhorne Rd Newtown, PA 18940-2414 215.579.6500

June 11-Aug.10 Boys & Girls AGES 3-18 Celebrating 50 Years of Summer Fun 20+ CAmps

science performing Arts sports Filmmaking mineCraft girls empowerment Chess sewing The Best Of Traditional Day Camp

Experience Everything

penncharter.com/summercamp William Penn Charter SChool 3000 West School House Lane, Philadelphia

Penn Charter Summer Camps 3000 West School House Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19144 215-844-3460 ext. 364; www.penncharter.com/summercamp

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Directory MONTGOMERY

Bala House Montessori Summer Camp 27 Conshohocken State Rd. Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-6767 admissions@balahouse.org Balahouse.org

DAY, PROGRAM Fun, yet stimulating experience for first time campers. Flexible schedules and convenient hours (8am-5:45pm) for ages 3-6. Choose individual weeks as needed. Weekly art, gymnastics and Soccer Shots classes complement our small, nurturing environment. Storytellers, petting zoos & museums visit camp. Our beautiful wooded campus and wellequipped playground are the perfect backdrop for summer fun.

Burn Brae Day Camp of Creative Arts (Camp for the Arts, Technology, Swim, Sports and More!)

1405 Twining Rd. Dresher, PA 215-657-3388 info@burnbraedaycamp.com Burnbraedaycamp.com

DAY Celebrating 37 years of friendships, confidence-building, fun and exploration for boys and girls ages 3-15. A huge variety of indoor and outdoor activities on our beautiful, spacious setting. A/C buildings, centrally located. Nurturing, non-competitive environment, no bully zone. Campers ages 7-15 create their own schedules according to their interests.

Ages 3-6 have the opportunity to try everything in a well-rounded schedule. Pick and choose from 2-11 week sessions with non-consecutive weeks available.

Experienced, caring and professional certified teaching staff. 5 to 1 camper/staff ratio. Academic tutoring available. Door to door transportation. Early and late care. Registered Nurse on-site.

Camp Kef 45 Haverford Rd. Kaiserman JCC Wynnewood, PA 610-896-7770, ext. 123 kaisermancamp@phillyjcc.com Phillyjcc.com/camp/camp-kef/

DAY Camp Kef at the Kaiserman JCC is a full-service traditional day camp packed with fun (kef). Campers have opportunities to add special programs onto their camp experience. Swim every day. Art, drama, sports and all new specialists highlight each week. Circus for the Kids is back this summer ... Don’t miss out!

CIT SN

Camp MELC 201 Sabine Ave. Multiple Locations, PA 610-617-4550 info@melc.org Melc.org

DAY If you’re looking for a neighborhood camp with a lot of activities, Camp MELC is for you! 50+ years of experience. Your child’s summer will be filled with art, science and sport activities, air-conditioned settings and field trips. For ages 5-12, we offer three 3-week sessions, and our tuition rates include a 10-hour camp day and field trips. Wynnewood, Plymouth Meeting, Pottstown. CIT

Camp Pegasus 1400 Montgomery Ave. Rosemont College Rosemont, PA 610-649-1080 ext. 8 info@camppegasus.com Camppegasus.com

DAY Camp Pegasus, in Rosemont, PA, is a coed day camp for 6- to 16-year olds struggling with social-cognitive deficits. By weaving together social skills techniques, creative-art therapies and traditional camp activities, kids with/without diagnoses such as ADHD, Asperger’s and HFA, improve social competency and increase self-esteem. SN

Center School’s Summer Program 2018 2450 Hamilton Ave. Abington, PA 215-657-2200 mstalker@centerschoolpa.org Centerschoolpa.org

PROGRAM Center School’s Summer Learning and Enrichment Program provides students in grades 1-6 with academic and recreational opportunities to develop and maintain skills, practice effective learning strategies and increase abilities in a warm, welcoming and fun-filled environment. Center School nurtures students’ confidence and guides them in realizing their potential.

.com

Cheltenham Center for the Arts 439 Ashbourne Rd., Cheltenham 215-379-4660 education@cheltenhamarts.org Cheltenhamarts.org

DAY Summer Art Camp is the best place to explore your creativity. Kids ages 5-12 will experience the fun of drawing, painting, theatre and clay every day!

Weekly swimming trips are included as well as guest artists throughout the summer. Teens ages 13-16 are offered a more in-depth art experience focusing on ceramics, painting/drawing printmaking and other special topics in our Teen Summer Studio. Sessions June 25-Aug. 24, 2018. Come for one week or for the whole summer! Call today for details!

Elmwood Park Zoo Camp 1661 Harding Blvd.

Norristown, PA 610-277-3825 ext. 236 camp@elmwoodparkzoo.org Epzcamps.com

DAY Children are in for a wild time at a fun and educational day camp that features the Elmwood Park Zoo animals. Each week-long session includes exciting activities, with crafts, stories, snacks, animal visits and in-depth zoo tours.

Flourtown Swim Club & Day Camp 1528 Bethlehem Pike Flourtown, PA 215-836-1429 dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net Flourtownswimclub.net

DAY A traditional summer day camp with Educational Leadership, the Flourtown Summer Day Camp is designed to give every child a positive experience with lifelong memories. CIT

French for Fun c/o French International School of Philadelphia 150 N. Highland Ave. Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-667-1284 info@efiponline.com Frenchschoolphila.org/ summer-camp/

DAY The French for Fun Summer Camp caters to children aged 4 to 10 and offers activities, workshops and field trips, all supervised by certified teachers from the French International School of Philadelphia.

Friends’ Central School Summer Programs 1101 City Line Ave. Wynnewood, PA 610-645-5132 kclayton@friendscentral.org Fcsprograms.org

DAY, PROGRAM Our families say it best: The children always have a positive experience. The multitude of activity options keep the children interested and engaged. Our children look forward to attending camp each summer. Who doesn’t go to FCS? They’re missing out!

Frog Hollow Tennis Camp 2115 Weber Rd. Lansdale, PA 610-584-5502 info@frogtennis.com Frogtennis.com

DAY Frog Hollow’s Tennis Camp is an exceptional place for young athletes to learn tennis, meet friends and make memories! Frog Hollow has a camp for all levels and all ages: Kids Club (ages 4-9), Junior Camp (ages 9 -16) or a Performance Camp for tournament players or players looking to advance on their team ladder. Sign up for a week or the entire summer, for full-day or half-day. Camp runs June-Sept.; weekly sign ups and SN extended day are available.

Germantown Academy Day Camp and Summer Programs 340 Morris Rd. Ft. Washington, PA 267-405-7321 summer@gacamp.org Gacamp.org

DAY, PROGRAM, RESIDENTIAL Germantown Academy Day Camp & Summer Programs offers children ages 3 to 16 an amazing day camp experience, instructional sports camps, overnight trips and specialized summer programs in the arts and sciences at the school’s beautiful campus in Fort Washington. CIT

Hideaway Day Camp 3471 Arcola Rd. Collegeville, PA 610-489-2191 Hideawaydaycamp.com

DAY The true camp experience. Coed program for ages 4-14 on 72 beautiful acres near Valley Forge. Fishing, canoeing, archery, swimming, equestrian, sports, arts & crafts and ropes adventure course with rock wall.

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

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NEW Miquon Day Camp 2025 Harts Ln., Conshohocken, PA 267-240-4456 campdirector@miquon.org Miquon.org/camp

DAY At Miquon, children experience summer the way it used to be - when kids had freedom to play, explore and experience the great outdoors. Located on a wooded campus just outside NW Philadelphia, Miquon offers children that camp experience of yesteryear. ACA CIT

Pathway School, The 162 Egypt Rd. Jeffersonville, PA 610-277-0660 dphifer@pathwayschool.org Pathwayschool.org

DAY Have fun at our 6-week summer program which provides authentic learning experiences through hands-on activities and exciting field trips. SN

Ramah Day Camp Eileen Graub, Ass’t Dir. 7601 Old York Rd. Elkins Park, PA 215-885-8556 eileeng@ramahpoconos.org

DAY Ramah Day Camp is a fun and dynamic summer camp experience for children in PreK (4 yrs.) through 7th grade with an experiential CIT program for 8th-10th graders. Sports, swim, arts, ropes course, garden, specialty programming & more take place in an enriching Jewish environment. June 20-Aug. 10, 2018. Special needs inclusion program. Transportation, lunch, extended care options and scholarship available.

CIT SN

Riverbend Exploration Day Camp 1950 Spring Mill Rd. Gladwyne, PA 610-527-5234 Riverbendeec.org

DAY Riverbend’s camp is the perfect place for the science and nature lover in your family. Professional staff will introduce your child to the many wonders of the natural world through exploration, hands-on activities, hikes, science experiments and much more. Weekly sessions, from June 11-Aug. 31, are available for children ages 3-11. Traditional Exploration Camps and adventure-packed Navigator Camps are also offered for ages 10-13. CIT PHILADELPHIA

CEG Performing ArtsBroadway Summer Day Camp 684 N. Broad Street, 2nd FL. Philadelphia, PA 19130 215-236-1300 CEGArtsAcademy@gmail.com Cegartsacademy.com/summer-camp

DAY Students work towards performing in a full Broadway musical production where they’ll be singing, dancing and acting from 8am-3pm. Full-day students (8am-6pm) remain for a rotation of classes geared to develop technique in dance, music and drama. 8-week students perform in a final showcase musical.

Gwendolyn Bye Dance Center 3611 Lancaster Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19104 215-222-7633 Gbyedance.org

DAY, PROGRAM June 25-Aug. 3, 2018. Performing Arts Summer Camp: A fun program for beginner and intermediate students (boys & girls, 6-12); ballet, modern, tap, jazz, hip-hop, singing & acting, culminating in a performance (6 weeks). Ballet & Dance Intensive: Upperlevel, comprehensive training for intermediate to advancedlevel students (boys & girls, 11-17) in ballet, pointe, modern & jazz, culminating in a performance (5 weeks).

Nature Ramblers & Adventure Treks, Schuylkill Center 8480 Hagy’s Mill Rd. Philadelphia, PA 19128 215-482-7300 scee@schuylkillcenter.org Schuylkillcenter.org

DAY, TRAVEL Campers ages 3-9 explore the natural world in day camps with hiking, crafts, field trips and spontaneous nature explorations. Campers ages 10-15 enjoy overnight adventure trips where they gain outdoor skills & experiences. Programs start June 11 and run weekly through Aug. 17.

CIT

NEW Early Childhood Environments 762 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19146 215-380-6633

DAY Early Childhood Environments Bi-lingual Art and Academic Enrichment Camp welcomes campers ages 3-11 from all over to join the fun. Our camp offers a unique blend of fun hands-on art and learning activities that stimulate growth and creativity. Each week children learn about new artists and explore distant lands and a variety of cultures through their art and cooking activities. They work on 3-D art projects that reflect world cultures and the diversity of our planet and learn new techniques in painting, drawing, and sculpting with clay, as well as music and dance! Campers take weekly field trips to museums and cultural institutions, bowling and the aquarium! We provide breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack.

Penn Charter Summer Camps 3000 W. School House Ln. Philadelphia, PA 19144 215-844-3460 summercamps@ penncharter.com Penncharter.com/ summercamp

DAY Sports, performing arts, science, drone, robotics, Handwork Studio, animation, filmmaking, chess, MineCraft, Girls Empowerment, tennis, squash, baseball, CIT basketball, soccer.

NEW Penn Museum Anthropologists in the Making and Junior Anthropologists Summer Camps 3260 South Street Philadelphia, PA 19104 summercamp@ pennmuseum.org penn.museum/camp

DAY Journey through time and across continents without leaving Philadelphia! During summer 2018, Penn Museum will offer two distinct summer camp programs that will encourage children to discover world cultures – both past and present – through gallery tours, art-making, games & theatrics and music & dance guest performances.

NEW Penn Tennis Camp / Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps 240 South 31st Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 Wilsontenniscamps.com/ penn

DAY Long regarded as one of the most popular tennis camps in the nation, the Penn camp, in partnership with Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps, will host 9 weeks of camp this summer. By offering full day and half day options, there is an appropriate camp option for boys and girls ages 3-18 of all skill levels.

Shofuso Summer Camp Lansdowne Ave. & Horticultural Dr. Philadelphia, PA 19131 nicole@japanphilly.org japanesehouse.org/education/ summer-camp

DAY Spend the summer at Philadelphia’s authentic Japanese house and garden! Sessions include half-day camp for ages 4-5, themed arts, cooking & storytelling weeks for ages 6-10, and artist-led Japanese comic workshops for ages 11-15.

Summer at Girard 2101 S. College Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19121 summerprograms@ girardcollege.edu Girardcollege.edu/ summer-at-girard

DAY Located in the gorgeous Fairmount neighborhood, Girard College’s breathtaking and historic 43-acre campus will be your playground this summer.

Whether you’re swimming in our indoor pools or playing soccer beneath the city skyline, you’re sure to make memories at Girard!

OUTLYING AREAS - PENNSYLVANIA

Camp Lee Mar 450 Rte. 590 Lackawaxen, PA 215-658-1708 ari@leemar.com Leemar.com

RESIDENTIAL Camp for children & teenagers with mild to moderate developmental challenges. A structured environment, individual attention & guidance are emphasized at all times. Traditional camp activities plus academics, speech & language therapy, music, arts & crafts, daily living skills and much more. We also have therapeutic horseback riding & overnight trips. Heated pool, modern facilities & air-conditioned buildings (including bunks). ACA 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 and 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. ACA CIT SN

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

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Directory

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

FOR STUDENTS AGES 3 – 8

Camp Runs July 23 Through August 24 $300 / 1-WEEK SESSION $500 / 2-WEEK SESSION

OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER

FRIENDSHAVERFORD.ORG/CAMP 851 Buck Lane • Haverford, PA 484-645-3114 • camp@friendshaverford.org

Flourtown Swim Club and

Summer Day Camp Traditional Summer Day Camp Boys and Girls Ages 4-14

CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM

OPEN HOUSE DATES: Saturdays, Feb. 17th & March 17th • 10am-2pm Swim Lessons • Recreational Swimming • Archery • Golf ACTIVITIES •• Daily Baseball/Softball • Soccer • Tennis • Basketball • Lacrosse INCLUDE.... • Field Hockey • Volleyball • Arts & Crafts • Music • Dance

• Culinary Arts • GaGa Pit • Sustainable Gardening • Tutoring Services

For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net

1528 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA • 215-836-1429 (behind the Flourtown Fire Co.)

www.flourtownswimclub.net

What are you looking for?

KIDS’ CAMPS

NEW Adventure Camp at Roundtop Mountain Resort 925 Roundtop Road Lewisberry, PA (717) 432-9631 skiroundtop@skiroundtop.com Roundtopmountainresort.com

DAY, RESIDENTIAL 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 lining, rock climbing, boating, paintball and OGO balling all right here on our 1200 acres. CIT

Centreville Layton School Summer Program 6201 Kennett Pike Centreville, DE 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

Digital Media Academy Bryn Mawr College & University of Pennsylvania 866-656-3342 info@digitalmediaacademy.org Digitalmediaacademy.org

DAY, RESIDENTIAL DMA tech camps encourage and inspire the next generation of developers, animators, filmmakers, photographers, designers, and engineers.

Hands-on, project-based learning introduces students to the latest in VR, wearable technology, robotics, 3D printing and more!

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

NEW Pilot Summer Camp The Pilot School, 208 Woodlawn Rd., Wilmington, DE 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.

Tall Pines Day Camp 1349 Sykesville Rd. Williamstown, NJ 856-262-3900 fun@tallpinesdaycamp.com Tallpinesdaycamp.com

DAY Serving Center City/South Jersey/shore points.

State certified & accredited by ACA. 66 acres include 45,000 sq. ft. of A/C indoor space, climbing tower, pedal karts, gymnastics, driving range, horseback riding, 8,500 sq. ft. of pools, soccer & baseball fields, hockey, basketball, tennis courts, arts & music programs. Open houses on Saturdays, from 12-3pm, Feb. 10, March 17, ACA April 21 and May 19.

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

RESIDENTIAL 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.

CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE CAMP DIRECTORY

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RESIDENTIAL, OVERNIGHT We welcome you to our 600 mountain top acres in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

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

CAMP

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

FEBRUARY 2018

Family Fun

D N U O R A orld Are

W e h T a multicul

tural venues

T

he Delaware Valley boasts an array of cultures, traditions and experiences.

Local museums, cultural centers and historic sites provide a place for community members to celebrate their heritage and expand their knowledge.

PENNSYLVANIA African American Museum, Phila.

The museum showcases heritage and culture through events and exhibits.

Permanent exhibit Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia 17161817 displays an interactive, 100-year timeline with large video projections. On them, prominent 18th-century figures tell their stories. An adjacent Children’s Corner lets kids explore what childhood was like during the time period.

National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila.

Dedicated to exploring the history of the Jewish people through artifacts, stories and interactive media, the venue’s core exhibit is a multi-floor, centuries-spanning timeline that chronicles the experiences of Jewish people who immigrated to the U.S. Don’t miss the Only in America Gallery/ Hall of Fame, which highlights luminaries such as Albert Einstein, Barbra Streisand and Steven Spielberg.

Polish American Cultural Center, Phila.

The multipurpose center houses a museum with exhibits that pay homage to 1,000 years of Polish art, culture, history, tradition and famous figures. The space also hosts lectures and family events.

NEW JERSEY African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, Atlantic City

Asian Arts Initiative, Phila.

The center hosts performances, exhibits, kids’ art classes and a community gathering space. Upcoming events include an exhibit about protest signs, a pop-up book-making workshop, poetry readings, theatre inspired by the first female Indian astronaut and educational courses.

American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila.

The country’s oldest Swedish museum showcases the contributions of Swedes in American society, from art to architecture to science. Budding bookworms should take note of Fact and Fiction: Getting to Know Swedish Authors. Another exhibit focuses on the stories of refugee families who found asylum in Sweden. Return for monthly kid-specific programming.

FEBRUARY 2018

Documenting the 20th-century African American experience, the museum is home to more than 11,000 rotating artifacts including drawings, paintings and household items. They provide a decade-by-decade visual representation of the culture’s evolution. In one display, advertisements featuring Aunt Jemima, Black Sambo, Amos & Andy and Buckwheat illustrate the effects of negative images.

Another exhibit features memorabilia from the hit show Boardwalk Empire.

Peter Mott House, Lawnside

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

Listen to guides sing songs from the time period, view artifacts and hear oral histories.

DELAWARE AND MARYLAND Chinese American Community Center, Hockessin

Concerts, classes, workshops, seminars, holiday events, an annual festival and culture camps engage visitors of all ages. Families can sign up for a variety of clubs, including folk dancing, tai chi, karaoke and music.

Irish Culture Club, Wilmington

In addition to the annual parade, Irish dance competition and St. Patrick’s Day festival, the venue offers free lessons on Irish culture and history.

Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore

With a variety of artifacts, video footage, clothing and audio stations, the museum provides an interactive look at local and national history. The Things Hold, Lines Connect gallery highlights how Maryland’s African Americans rebuilt and renewed families, communities and social organizations torn apart by slavery. The children’s event series on select Saturdays features art workshops and musical & theatrical performances.

Indian Cultural Center of South Jersey, Marlton

This hub for the local Indian community hosts dance and language workshops, Zumba classes, performances, holiday celebration and other public events. The central hall is adorned with vibrant, largerthan-life murals that depict Indian musical instruments and classical dances.

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

MetroKids.com 27

Family Fun

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event

Valentine's event

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

1 Thursday

Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: The Museum at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $ Crocs: Ancient Predators in a Modern World Exhibit Opening at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Come face-to-face with an array of crocodile species, get a glimpse of their nests, learn to speak their language, check out skulls and make water “dance.”

Runs through May 6. $$$ Groundhog Predictions Program at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Stories and crafts focus on the furry weather forecasters and whether they can predict seasonal changes. $

2 Friday

Homeschool Day at the American Helicopter Museum, West Chester. Science, tech, engineering and math activities meet state education standards. $$

3 Saturday

Access to Science: Opening Doors to Autism at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Kids on the autism spectrum and their families experience the venue before it opens to the public. $$$

Fan of . . . the Eagles

Kick off Super Bowl Sunday (Feb. 4) at one of two Philly events. The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts’ Family Arts Academy: Game Day gets the party started with face painting, art games and a viewing of the Puppy Bowl. Over at the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s Game Day Family Festival, try your luck at games of chance and watch acrobats from the Almanac Dance Circus Theatre engage in playful battles. It’s a win-win for everyone!

28 MetroKids.com

Enjoy stories and dramatic play during the Museum Playdate, Feb. 6, at Philly's Penn Museum.

African-American Children’s Book Fair at the Community College of Philadelphia. See “Town & County,” p. 30. FREE Camp-In at the Franklin Institute, Phila. This museum sleepover features an astronomy show, telescope viewing, a planetarium presentation and exhibit exploration. $$$$ Intro to JavaScript Workshop at Launch Academy, Phila. Run by TechGirlz. FREE Intro to Video-Game Design at the Main Line Art Center, Haverford. Kids learn how digital art is made for games, then use basic programming to add dimensions and controls. $$$$ Seafarin’ Saturday at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila.

Find out what makes boats float and build your own mini vessel. $$$ Words at Play at the Cecil B. Moore Library, Phila. Join the Philadelphia Museum of Art to explore the color wheel. FREE Year of the Dog Pop-Up Book-Making Workshop at the Asian Arts Initiative, Phila. FREE

4 Sunday

Allie-Oops performs at the Act II Playhouse, Ambler. $$ Family Arts Academy: Game Day at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. See “Fan of,” left. FREE Family Drawing Day at the Michener Art Museum, Doylestown. $$ First Sunday for Families: DIY Valentines at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. FREE Game Day Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. See “Fan of,” left. Pay what you wish

FEBRUARY 2018

Winterfest at the Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington. Partake in crafts, games, animal programs and wintry activities. FREE

6 Tuesday

Morning Bird Walk at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE Museum Playdate at the Penn Museum, Phila. Stories and dramatic play in the galleries are themed to mummies. $$

7 Wednesday

First Wednesday at the Please Touch Museum, Phila. Enjoy discounted admission and extended hours. $

8 Thursday

Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: Extra Yarn at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $ Stroller Tour at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. $$

9 Friday

Camp-In at the Franklin Institute, Phila. See Feb. 3. $$$$ Clay Mug Workshop at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. Learn ceramic-wheel techniques and make a mug to take home. $$$$ The Frosty Ball at the Garden State Discovery Museum, Cherry Hill, NJ. Enjoy treats, song & dance, crafts and meet-and-greets with popular characters. $$$$ Masters of Illusion Live at the Keswick Theatre, Glenside. The fast-paced show features sleight-of-hand experts, escape artists, comedy magicians and illusionists. $$$$

10 Saturday

Black History Month Celebration at the Reading Terminal Market, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 30. FREE Cupid’s Chase 5K at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. This stroller- and wheelchair-friendly race benefits people with disabilities. $$$$ Intro to 3D Printing Workshop at the Franklin Institute, Phila.

Ages 10 & up. $$$$ Seafarin’ Saturday at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila.

Learn about the American shad and make a clothespin fish to take home. $$$

Science Saturday: What a Drag! at the American Helicopter Museum, West Chester. Discover how weight, drag, lift and thrust impact flying objects and how helicopters use these forces to fly. $ Second Saturday at the Penn Museum, Phila. Celebrate the Olympics with scavenger hunts, crafts and tours. $$ Share the Love Workshop at the Clay Studio, Phila. Make a masterpiece on the pottery wheel and decorate it with a Valentine’s Day theme. $$$ Steve Pullara and His Cool Beans Band performs at the Sellersville Theater, Sellersville. $$ Valentine's Workshop for Kids at Pennypacker Mills, Schwenksville. Create cards, a wall hanging, a lavender satchet and a quilt ornament. $ Winter Wonderland: The Ice Age at the Wagner Free Institute of Science, Phila. Families celebrate the season with themed art activities, scavenger hunts and demos. FREE

11 Sunday

Anime Workshop: Developing a Character at the Michener Art Museum, Doylestown. Kids learn and improve drawing techniques and create a finished artwork to take home. $$$$ Family Arts Academy: Come. Sit. Color. at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Join a local artist to create an animal portrait. FREE Valentine’s Make-In at the Mindy Flexer Art School, Phila. $$

14 Wednesday

Nature Valentines Workshop at the Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Turn paper hearts into animals and make valentines using natural materials. $ Sweetheart Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. FREE

15 Thursday

Books and Boots at the Myrick Conservation Center, West Chester. Join Potter the Otter for storytime that leads to an outdoor adventure. $ Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: A River at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $

Organ Demonstration at Verizon Hall, Phila. Before the 1pm tour, enjoy a 15-minute performance on the famous Fred J. Cooper Memorial Organ. FREE

Philly, Then and Now at the Charles Santore Library, Phila.

Explore how the city has changed through the generations via photos, maps and stories, then make a collage. FREE

Owl Prowl at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. Meet rehabilitated owls from the wildlife clinic while learning about the physical and behavioral features that make them skilled hunters. After, search for them during a flashlight walk. $$

Toddler Time at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Little ones enjoy art-themed stories, crafts and movement. $

Science Saturday at the Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown.

Families try themed experiments and activities. $$$$

16 Friday

Day-Off Camp: Campfire Cooking at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$

Kids’ Day Off

Looking for a way to keep the kids busy Presidents’ Day Weekend (Feb. 16 & 19) while you’re at work? Sign them up for School’s Out, Get Outside day camp at the Briar Bush Nature Center in Abington to hang out with animals, play games and make nature crafts. Or send them to the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education’s Day-Off Camps in Philly; kids learn the importance of fire in cold weather Fri. during “Campfire Cooking” and on Mon., discover how to secure food and shelter during “Winter Skills and Survival.”

FEBRUARY 2018

MetroKids.com 29

Family Fun School’s Out, Get Outside: Presidents’ Day at the Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 29. $$$$ Philly Home and Garden Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. While parents browse, kids can join makeand-take workshops and enjoy live music. $$

17 Saturday

Bluebird Nest Box Workshop at the Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown.

Learn about bluebird ecology and make a house to hang up at home. $$$$ Chinese New Year at the Elmwood Park Zoo, Norristown. Kick off the Year of the Dog with animal greetings, crafts and educational programming. $$$ Eat, Clay, Love Workshop at the Clay Studio, Phila. Learn how to use the pottery wheel and make a bowl, plate or mug. $$$ Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center's Commonwealth Plaza, Phila. Little ones are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE

Rosebud Garden Story Hour at the Kimberton Waldorf School, Phoenixville. FREE Philly Home and Garden Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See Feb. 16. $$ “Witch Hazel” is Your Favorite? at Morris Arboretum, Phila.

Experience the color and fragrance of winter during this map-led family exploration where kids can try to find all varieties of witch hazel. $$$ Winterfest Live! at XFINITY Live, Phila.

While adults can try drinks from dozens of breweries, kid-friendly fun includes games and DJ music. $$$$

18 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Bead It at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Use beads to decorate everyday objects. FREE Philly Home and Garden Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See Feb. 16. $$

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

Presidents’ Day Weekend at the National Constitution Center, Phila. See Feb. 17. $

Presidents’ Day Weekend at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Join in a quiz game, watch an interactive show on influential African Americans, participate in the kids’ town hall and enter the presidential costume contest. $

Day-Off Camp: Winter Skills and Survival at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 29. $$$$

19 Monday

Give Kids a Smile Day at Temple University’s Kornberg School of Dentistry, Phila. Dental checkups for kids who are uninsured or underinsured. FREE Presidents’ Day at the National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila. View a letter written by George Washington to the Jewish community, “meet” him and write your own note to the first president. $$$ Presidents’ Day Weekend at the National Constitution Center, Phila. See Feb. 17. $

Fab Freebie

Totally sweet! Round up the whole crew and get hands-on with sugar maples, learning the steps from sap to syrup. During Norristown Farm Park’s Sugar Maple Trees program Feb. 25 in E. Norriton, taste-test the homegrown stuff in comparison to commercial varieties and hear an American Indian legend about the discovery of maple sap.

30 MetroKids.com

Town & County: Black History Month

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

PHILADELPHIA Celebrate all month with the National Constitution Center’s African-American History Month programming, including an interactive look at the Emancipation Proclamation, a show dedicated to historical African-American figures, trivia and themed self-guided tours.

Meet and greet some of the country’s most talented authors during the AfricanAmerican Children’s Book Fair (Feb. 3) at the Community College of Philadelphia.

Reading Terminal Market’s Black History Month Celebration (Feb. 10) features cooking demos, performances and discussions.

Round out the month at the Penn Museum’s Celebration of African Cultures (Feb. 24), complete with a marketplace, traditional dance and music, crafts, games and storytelling.

School’s Out, Get Outside: Presidents’ Day at the Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 29. $$$$

20 Tuesday

Audubon Bird Town Bird Walk at Lorimer Park, Huntingdon Valley. FREE Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

21 Wednesday

Intro to 3D Printing Workshop at the Franklin Institute, Phila. See Feb. 10. $$$$

FEBRUARY 2018

22 Thrsday

Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: A Splash of Red at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $ Friends with Special Needs Night at Bouncing Off the Walls, Levittown. Kids with disabilities, their families and their therapists jump and socialize in a welcoming environment. $

23 Friday

Dinos After Dark at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila.

Families watch animal presentations and partake in hands-on activities. $$ Teen Program: Inside the Box at the Fabric Workshop and Museum, Phila. Use knowledge about the color wheel, cloth and handmade objects to create a “self-portrait box.” FREE

24 Saturday

Camp-In at the Franklin Institute, Phila. See Feb. 3. $$$$ Celebration of African Cultures at the Penn Museum, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 30. $$ Maple-Sugar Day at Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown.

Collect sap from a sugar bush, taste maple syrup and learn how pioneers used the resource. FREE Pancake Breakfast and Maple-Sugaring Celebration at Tyler Arboretum, Media. Walk through maple-sugaring stations to see how sap turns to syrup and enjoy an all-you-can-eat meal. $$$ Seafarin’ Saturday at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. Learn about the experiences of early explorers in North America. $$$ Sensory Storytime at the Fumo Family Library, Phila. Geared toward kids who are on the autism spectrum, have sensory processing issues or feel overwhelmed by noise and crowds. FREE Tile Mosaic Planter Workshop at the Mercer Museum, Doylestown. $$$$

PERFORMANCES Aladdin: A Musical Panto at the People’s Light, Malvern.

Through Jan. 7. $$$$ The Princess and the Pea at the Media Theatre, Media. Through Feb. 25. $$$ Stinky Kids: The Musical at the Walnut Street Theatre, Phila.

Feb. 3-11. $$$ The Cat in the Hat at the Keswick Theatre, Glenside. Feb. 6. $$$$ Little Shop of Horrors at the Players Club of Swarthmore.

Feb. 9-21. $$ Mr. Popper’s Penguins (pictured) at the Merriam Theater, Phila.

Feb. 10. $$$$ The Diary of Anne Frank at the People’s Light, Malvern.

Feb. 21-March 31. $$$$

Winter Wellness Walk at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. FREE Winter Witch Hazel Walk at Morris Arboretum, Phila. $$$

25 Sunday

What are you looking for?

Family Arts Academy: Peek Inside at the Pennsylania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Find out how artists make installations and make a mini installation with found objects and lights. FREE Intro to 3D Printing Workshop at the Franklin Institute, Phila.

See Feb. 10. $$$$ Maple-Sugar Day and Pancake Breakfast at the Churchville Nature Center, Churchville. Families visit various stations that demonstrate how sap turns to syrup, then enjoy the meal. $$ Phish for Kids at the Ardmore Music Hall, Ardmore. Performed by the Rock and Roll Playhouse. $$$ Sugar Maple Trees at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. See “Fab Freebie,” p. 30. FREE Sundays on Stage: Two of a Kind at the Parkway Central Library, Phila. This literacy-themed performance features songs, dancing and puppetry. FREE

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

FEBRUARY 2018

Places to

VISIT

Find them in our

ONLINE Attraction Directory!

MetroKids.com/PlacesToVisit MetroKids.com 31

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Early Education Directory DAY CARE FY: Full Year AY: Academic Year SP: Summer Program MP: Meals Provided

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PREK

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BS: Before School AS: After School DA: Diapers Accepted TP: Transportation Provided

KINDERGARTEN SN: Special Needs DHS*: Licensed: Dept. of Health & Human Serv.

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

NAEYC: Accredited by National Association of Education of Young Children PAIS: Accredited by PA Assoc. of Independent Schools MSCES: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools AMS: Accredited by American Montessori Society

* Note: DHS License: requires annual on-site visits. DE License: 20% of all facilities are inspected annually.

MULTIPLE SITES

BUCKS COUNTY (continued)

BRIGHTSIDE ACADEMY, Multiple convenient locations!

877-868-2273 • BrightsideAcademy.com • Ages: 6 wks-12 yrs. • Hours: 6am-6pm Brightside Academy provides kindergarten readiness programs and child care in multiple convenient locations. We accept children ages 6 weeks to 12-years-old. Head Start available.

Subsidies accepted. Enroll today! FY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, TP, NAEYC

PLEASANTVILLE PRE-SCHOOL 3424 Limekiln Pike, Chalfont, PA 18914 215-822-9741 • pleasantvillepreschool.org • Ages: 3 -5 yrs • Hours: 9:30am - 11:30am Pleasantville Pre-School established in 1969 offers a traditional preschool experience for children 3-5 years of age. Our qualified staff provides a warm, caring enironment for children in the Bucks/Mont. area. We help children make a positive adjustment to school routine, participate co-operatively in classroom activities and find curiosity in learning. AY, DE*

FEDERATION EARLY LEARNING SERVICES (FELS) 10700 Jamison Ave., Phila., PA 215-676-7550 • Ages: 6 wks – 12 yrs • Hours: 6am – 6pm Buerger Early Learning Center: 619 N. Broad St., Phila.; 267-535-2643 Kehillah Early Learning Center: 2 Chester Rd., Wallingford; 610-872-0400 Kol Ami Early Learning Center: 8201 High School Rd., Elkins Park; 215-635-4180 K’tonton Early Learning Center: 715 Paxon Hollow Rd., Broomall; 610-325-4831 Ohev Shalom Early Learning Center: 944 Second Street Pk., Richboro; 215-322-9595 Lassin Early Learning Center: 10800 Jamison Ave., Phila.; 215-677-7191 Lokoff Early Learning Center: 1920 Skippack Pk., Blue Bell; 215-643-0110 Gutman Early Learning Center: 7500 West Ave., Melrose Park; 215-635-5570 Paley Early Learning Center: 2199 Strahle St., Phila.; 215-725-8930 105 years of experience providing high-quality programs for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years from diverse economic, religious and racial backgrounds. Built on a foundation of Jewish values - NAEYC & Keystone Stars accredited. AY, FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS*, NAEYC HEY DIDDLE DIDDLE DAY SCHOOL, INC. 520 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington, PA 215-654-9955 • HeyDiddleDiddleDaySchool.net LITTLE DIDDLE PRESCHOOL 440 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington, PA 215-565-5866 • LittleDiddlePreschool.net • Ages: 6 wks.-PreK • Hours: 7am-6pm Our school offers full-day programs. Our staff members are well-educated and experienced which enables us to give the students an educational program in a caring, nurturing environment. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS, DE LITTLE LEARNERS DAY CARE & LEARNING CENTER 7701 Castor Ave., Phila., PA • 215-342-6200 8962 Ashton Rd., Phila., PA • 215-677-1400 7222 Castor Ave., Phila., PA • 215-342-8900 Ages: 2 mos.-K • Hours: 6:30am-6pm • www.theoriginallittlelearners.com Little Learners offers a new and innovative learning experience for all children. At Little Learners, we believe that information must be learned in a meaningful context to enable full understanding by a young child. Our centers provide quality care, planned activities, experience and a base for children to broaden their horizons. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS THE AVENUE’S CHILD CARE LLC 364-66 Snyder Ave, Phila., PA 19148 • 215-336-7780 Shane’s Friends DayCare: 1340 W. Moyamensing Ave., Phila., PA 19148 • 215-467-KIDS Ages: 6 wks. to 13 yrs. • Hours: 7am to 6pm Our program offers: Breakfast, lunch, & 2 snacks are provided, well-equipped classrooms, age appropriate curriculum, fenced outdoor play area, certified professionals, and dedicated Preschool program. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS/AS, DA, SN, DHS*

BUCKS COUNTY BRIGHT BEGINNERS ACADEMY 800 Clarmont Ave., Suite A, Bensalem, PA 19020 267-520-7200 • http://brightbeginnersacademy.com Ages: 6 weeks to 6 yrs old • Hours: 6:45am - 6pm Our preschool is designed to meet the needs of every child in a developmentally inclusive setting. Our program encourages progress at a child’s own pace and according to individual needs and abilities. Play-based learning centers for math, science, dramatic play, blocks, music, creative art and technology provide opportunities to balance and stimulate both shared and independent learning experiences. Private pay and subsidized funding accepted, infant and toddler care available. Parent volunteer opportunities available. FY, AY, SP, DA, SN, DHS*, DE KIDDIE ACADEMY OF LANGHORNE 670 Woodbourne Rd., Langhorne, PA 19067 215-750-5512 • http://educationaldaycare.kiddieacademy.com/academies/langhorne Ages: Infant -5 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am – 6:30pm At Kiddie Academy of Langhorne, we are passionate about providing quality care and education. Every child works at his/her own pace as we make learning fun with our Life Essentials focusing on Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum, Health and Fitness, Technology and Character Education. We are Keystone Star level 2. FY, SP, MP, DA, DHS*

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RAINBOW ACADEMY FOR LITTLE SCHOLARS 1240 Grenoble Rd., Ivyland, PA 18974 215-355-6498 • www.rainbowacademypreschool.com Ages: Toddler – Kindergarten • Hours: 7am-6pm Set on an idyllic 5-acre farm, young children experience a love for oneself, nature, friendship, diversity, learning, and peace. The joy of early childhood blossoms through the social and educational curriculum.FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, TP, SN, DE*, NAEYC TREVOSE DAY SCHOOL / NESHAMINY MONTESSORI 4951 Central Ave., Trevose, PA 19053 215–355-4373 • trevosedayschool.org • neshaminymontessori.org Ages: 2.5-10 • Hours: 7am-6pm Established in 1970, our programs excel at offering state-of-the-art education in a communityminded environment. We combine interactive technology, the visual and performing arts and scientific exploration with a sustainable hands-on approach that values our planet and nurtures curiosity. Our teachers are Pennsylvania Certified Early Childhood and Elementary Education Teachers. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, SN, AMS

POTTSTOWN, CHESTER COUNTY THE WYNDCROFT SCHOOL 1395 Wilson St., Pottstown, PA • 610-326-0544 mschmidt@wyndcroft.org • Ages: 3-8th grade • Hours: 7:45am-5:30pm The Wyndcroft School is a coeducational elementary day school for children ages three-years through Eighth Grade. The mission of the school is to offer a rigorous academic program enabling the child to establish a firm foundation for a happy and successful future with confidence to succeed in an ever-evolving world. AY, AS, PAIS

DREXEL HILL, DELAWARE COUNTY HOLY CHILD ACADEMY 475 Shadeland Ave., Drexel Hill, PA • 610-259-2712 www.holychildacademy.com • Ages: 2-5 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm HCA is a private, co-ed Catholic Nursery through Eighth Grade school. HCA prepares students to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world for a lifetime of achievement. AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DE*

MAIN LINE, DELAWARE COUNTY FRIENDS SCHOOL HAVERFORD 851 Buck Lane, Haverford, PA 19041 610-642-2334 • www.friendshaverford.org Ages: Nursery through 8th Grade • Hours: 8:00am - 2:45pm Friends School Haverford, a co-ed Quaker school, promotes academic scholarship, creativity, respect, integrity, and self-awareness with a commitment to creating a culture and kindness.

Our unique hands-on, minds-on curriculum encourages and celebrates curiosity, imagination, and exploration. Offering a full-day kindergarten program with full- and half-day nursery school, preschool, and pre-k options. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, PAIS MAIN LINE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 59 Sprout Rd., Villanova, PA 610-527-3915 • MainLineMontessori.com • Ages: 2 yrs. - 5 yrs. • Hours: 9am-3pm Main Line Montessori School has been providing a comprehensive Montessori environment for 25 years. Flexibility, creativity, and self direction are the key to independent thoughts and global minded growth. FY, MP, DA, DE

SWARTHMORE/MEDIA, DELAWARE COUNTY HOLY TRINITY NURSERY SCHOOL 927 S. Providence Rd. Wallingford, PA 19086 610-876-1721 • www.HolyTrinity19086.com Ages: 3 yrs. to K • Hours: 9am-11am, Extended Day 8am-2pm HTNS fosters positive self-esteem and independence through hands-on experiences. Our small classes and degreed teachers encourage a lifelong love of learning; help develop social skills and support academic growth. AY

FEBRUARY 2018

Early Education Directory DAY CARE

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PREK

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KINDERGARTEN

SWARTHMORE/MEDIA, DELAWARE COUNTY (continued)

MAIN LINE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY (continued)

SCHOOL IN ROSE VALLEY, THE 20 School Ln., Rose Valley, PA 610-566-1088 • TheSchoolinRoseValley.org Ages: Preschool-Grade 6 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm 80 Years of Experience – The School in Rose Valley offers a play-based preschool program committed to the development of the whole child. Expanded preschool with 3-day and 5-day programs. Full-day and half-day options available. Small-group learning with 1:8 student-teacher ratio. Special subjects include woodshop, Spanish, science, music, sports and art.

Beautiful 8.5 acre campus located minutes from Media, PA. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, PAIS

FRENCH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF PHILADELPHIA 150 N. Highland Ave., Bala Cynwyd, PA • 610-667-1284 frenchschoolphila.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-Grade 8 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm The French International School of Philadelphia offers a French/English bilingual program from preschool through grade 8. Our non-French speaking students develop their verbal skills in French in the younger grades as they engage in developmentally appropriate activities. New students with no prior knowledge of French are admitted at the age of 3, 4 or 5. Extended care is provided starting at 7:30am and until 6pm. Accredited by the Middle States Association and the French Department of Education. AY, AS, BS, SP, MP, DHS, MOSES

LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY OF GARNET VALLEY 1363 Naamans Creek Rd., Garnet Valley, PA 610-364-2000 • lightbridgeacademy.com/locations/Garnet-Valley-PA Ages: 6 weeks – 5 years old • Hours: 6:30 am – 6:30 pm Lightbridge Academy provides a high-quality educational program along with nurturing care while also supporting the needs of busy parents. Our state-ofthe-art facility offers innovative technology. Working families love the extended hours of 6:30 am-6:30 pm. AY, SP, BS, AS, SN, TP, MP, DA, DHS*

FT. WASHINGTON, MONTGOMERY COUNTY LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY 440 Virginia Dr., Fort Washington, PA 19034 215-367-5661 • fortwashington_pa@lightbridgeacademy.com • Ages: 6 wks.-5 yrs.

Hours: 7am-6:30pm Seedlings Early Childhood Education Curriculum, ParentView Internet Monitoring System, extended day, optional meal plan, Tadpoles eCommunication App for online daily reports, extracurricular activities such as dance, karate and more. FY, AY, SP, MP, DA, SN, DHS*

JENKINTOWN, MONTGOMERY COUNTY ABINGTON FRIENDS 575 Washington Ln., Jenkintown, PA 215-886-4350 • AbingtonFriends.net • Ages: 3 yrs.-K Hours: 8am-3pm w/ an extended-day option Our lower school early childhood program values and preserves childhood, building on the excitement and curiosity that children bring to their first school experience. Located on our beautiful 50-acre campus, our emergent curriculum program is designed to support your child’s developing independence. AY, SP, BS, AS, DHS, DE, NAEYC, PAIS

LAFAYETTE HILL, MONTGOMERY COUNTY MIQUON SCHOOL, THE 2025 Harts Lane, Conshohocken, PA 610-828-1231 • Miquon.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-12 yrs. • Hours: 8:30am-3pm Located on a majestic 10-acre wooded campus in Whitemarsh Township, Miquon is minutes away from Chestnut Hill and Roxborough. The Miquon School was founded on the tenets of Progressive Education with a focus on preserving childhood. Our Nursery program offers full-day, 3-day, 4-day schedules and includes art, music, science, physical education and library. Miquon teachers provide a positive and nurturing environment for children to learn through play while meeting their social, emotional, cognitive and physical needs. Snacks provided.

AY, SP, BS, AS, PAIS

MAIN LINE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY BALA CYNWYD SCHOOL FOR YOUNG CHILDREN 11 St. Asaphs Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA • 610-668-2233 balacynwydschool.net • Ages: 8 wks.-K • Hours: 7am-6pm Beautiful playgrounds, computer/iPads, gym areas & well-equipped classrooms staffed by nurturing teachers. An atmosphere that fosters fun, creativity, learning and emotional well-being.

On-site, in-ground pool, swimming lessons. Gymnastics, music, spanish & Preschool/kindergarten summer camp. SP, DHS, DE, NAEYC BALA HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 27 Conshohocken State Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-6767 • BalaHouse.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-6 yrs. • Hours: 8am-6pm Mixed-age classes, for ages 3 - 6 yrs., are led by sensitive, nurturing and highly qualified teachers who offer gentle guidance in an atmosphere of freedom, warmth and trust. Flexible schedules, convenient hours (7:45am to 5:45pm) and two-, three-, four-day afternoon class options are available. Art, music, gymnastics, kindergarten Spanish classes, extended care, summer camp round out our program. Some tuition assistance is available. Embracing diversity since 1969. AY, SP, DHS, DE CHILDREN’S SCHOOL AT ST. JOHN’S, THE 404 Levering Mill Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-4588 • Childrens-school.org • Ages: 3 mos.-K • Hours: 7am-6pm We offer a warm and creative learning environment where everyone has a “hands on” approach to learning. Our developmental approach includes music, Spanish and Tumbling Tots, Pre-K follows the Letter People Curriculum and Handwriting without Tears. Subsidized funding from the state accepted. 4-star facility with Keystone Stars. FY, SP, BS, AS, SN, DHS, DE, NAEYC

FEBRUARY 2018

THE HAVERFORD SCHOOL 450 Lancaster Ave., Haverford, PA 19041 610-642-3020 • www.haverford.org • Ages: PreK-12 Extraordinary educators prepare boys to be future-ready in a supportive learning environment designed to bring out the best in each student. Haverford strives to develop a well-balanced boy who is a high academic performer, socially and emotionally aware, and a good citizen of the School and community. Financial aid available. SP ROBERT J. WILF PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd. Wynnewood, PA 19096 610-896-7770 x118 • phillyjcc.com • Ages: 4 wks. – K2 • Hours: 8am-6pm A nurturing, child-centered environment for infants-kindergarten including gym classes, music, dance and more. We honor the uniqueness of each child, celebrating individual potential, and helping children question and discover. Teachers help children reach milestones necessary for healthy growth/ wellness. Tuition includes a family membership to the JCC. Families of all faiths welcome. Accredited by PA State Board of Private Schools. AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS* TEMPLE BETH HILLEL – BETH EL EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 1001 Remington Rd., Wynnewood, PA • 610-649-2277 Tabber.org • Ages: 3 mths. - Kindergarten • Hours: 9am-3pm Programs for children 3 months to kindergarten. Working families love the 7:30am Early Care and 6:00pm Late Care. Special needs children welcome! AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS, DE WALDRON MERCY ACADEMY 513 Montgomery Ave., Merion Station, PA 19066 610-664-9847 • www.waldronmercy.org Ages: 3 - grade 8 • Hours: 8:15am-3pm Waldron Mercy Academy is a co-educational age 3 to grade 8 independent Catholic school, offering an innovative curriculum integrating academics, technology, arts, athletics and service, with a commitment to Mercy and service. WMA offers a Child Care Center and Montessori or PreSchool tracks. FY, AY, AS, BS, DA, DHS* THE WETHERILL SCHOOL 1321 Beaumont Dr., Gladwyne, PA 610-649-2299 • Wetherillschool.org Ages 2.7 yrs.-5 yrs. • Hours: 8:15am-3pm Seeks to create a warm, secure, first-school experience where the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of each child is carefully nurtured. Curriculum based on Montessori, Piaget, Reggio Emilia schools. Classroom teachers supported by specialists in Music, Spanish, Creative Movement. Full or half-day Kindergarten. Licensed by State Board of Private Academic schools. AY, SP, BS, DE

WILLOW GROVE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY KIDSPARK 23 Easton Rd. (Entrance on Davisville Rd.), Willow Grove, PA 215-657-KIDS (5437) • KidsPark.com • Ages: 18 mos.-12 yrs.

Hours: Mon-Thu 7am-10pm; Fri 7am-12pm; Sat 10am-12pm; Sun 1pm-6pm A family favorite for over 20 years! Hourly drop-in childcare for ages 18 months-12 yrs old.

Morning Preschool, birthday parties on the weekend. Arts & crafts, games, indoor climbing structure, music & stories. Days, evenings, weekends, attend meetings, run errands, exercise... while your children are safe and having fun. We accept CCIS. FY, SP, MP, AS, DA, SN, DHS, BS

CENTER CITY/SOCIETY HILL, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY BUSY BEES LEARNING CENTER INC. 601 Walnut St., #LL-25, Phila., PA 215-733-9271, 866-Be-Busy7 toll free • BusyBeesChildcare.com Ages: 6 wks.-5 yrs. • Hours: 7:30am-6pm ”What’s important to your family is just as important to ours.” A family owned and operated homey and contemporary facility in the spectacular Curtis Center overlooking Independence Park. We have a family room for nursing and visits, multicultural activities with focus on Spanish, Montessori philosophy, Parents as Partners Program, mature professional staff. Online classroom observation at Guardiancam.com. Snacks provided. FY, MP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS EARLY CHILDHOOD ENVIRONMENTS 762 South Broad St. Phila., PA 19146 215-844-0178 • www.ecedesigns.com • Ages: 3-12 • Hours: 6:30am-6pm EARLY CHILDHOOD ENVIRONMENTS provides a bilingual, multicultural program where children learn and develop socially and emotionally. Head start, pre-school and after-school programs are provided for children ages 3-12. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, TP, DHS*

MetroKids.com 33

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Early Education Directory DAY CARE

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KINDERGARTEN CHESTNUT HILL/MT. AIRY, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY

CENTER CITY/SOCIETY HILL, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY (continued) SOCIETY HILL SYNAGOGUE 418 Spruce Street Phila., PA 19106 215-922-6590 • www.societyhillsynagogue.org • Ages: 2-5 • Hours: 7:45am-6pm We provide the best care for your child! Small class sizes provide a warm, nurturing classroom environment. Our goal is to get your child excited about learning! Age-appropriate curriculum with emphasis on play, socialization skills, as well as rich exposure to Jewish values. We are flexible to the needs of our families! Full-day service. AY, SP, BS/AS, DA, SN ST. PETER’S SCHOOL 319 Lombard St., Philadelphia, PA, 19147 215-925-3963 • www.st-peters-school.org Ages: 3 yrs. – 8th grade • Hours: 7:30am-3pm, after care until 6pm With over 179 years of strong traditions and academic distinction, St. Peter’s School offers a different educational experience. Serving preschool through eighth grade, St. Peter’s is a prominent fixture in Philadelphia’s historic Society Hill neighborhood. AY, SP, BS, AS, PAIS THE CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF PHILADELPHIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 2611 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 215-570-0757 • www.phillychildrenshouse.com • Ages: 2.5 - 5 yrs.

Full day and half day programs available for our Primary and Toddler programs. Primary Program: morning Montessori program includes lunch,& group play. Toddler Program: explore age appropriate Montessori materials with a Montessori trained teacher. Extended Day: after-school snack followed by Montessori-inspired playgroup: build, cook, paint, etc. before going outdoors for dismissal.FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, NAYEC, AMS

HOUSE AT POOH CORNER/CHILD’S CONCEPTIONS, INC. 311 E. Walnut Lane, Phila., PA • 215-843-0815 HouseAtPoohCornerDaycare.com • Ages: 3 mos.-6 yrs. • Hours: 7:30am-6pm For over 30 years Pooh Corner has been nurturing children’s natural desire to explore by providing a safe, loving and stimulating hands-on learning environment. We are a diverse community serving children ages 3 mos.-6 yrs. All of our teachers have degrees and have been with us between 10-25 years. FY, AY, SP, DA, DHS

WEST PHILADELPHIA, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY CYNTHIA’S LITTLE TREASURES FAMILY HOME CHILDCARE 311 N. 63rd St., Phila., PA 215-471-6952 • CynthiasLittleTreasures.webs.com Ages: 6 wks.-4 ½ yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6:00pm Qualified childcare practitioner with limited amount of space. Licensed and registered. Provide care in a loving and nurturing learning environment. In business since 2006. Keystone STARS Facility STAR 4 Level. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, TP, DHS, NAEYC

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FEBRUARY 2018

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Bala Cynwyd 610-668-2990

Deptford 856-686-6005

Hatboro 215-657-5878

Moorestown 856-924-8989

Spring House 215-280-9080

Bear 302-613-0832

Downingtown 610-873-6310

Hockessin 302-613-0832

Paoli 610-644-3588

Wayne 610-263-2800

Bensalem 215-639-6993

Doylestown 215-348-3667 Exton 610-585-8690

Philadelphia-Center City West 215-564-6284

Warrington 215-491-9300

Bryn Mawr 610-228-4699

Huntingdon ValleyFox Chase 215-663-9000

Cherry Hill West 856-348-3650

Glen Mills 215-932-4105

King of Prussia 610-265-3377

Philadelphia Grant Ave 215-613-1002

Conshohocken 267-328-7767

Harleysville 267-416-3737

Lansdale 215-527-6415 Marlton 856-985-0053

Royersford 484-933-4830

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