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Montessori Schools

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

Fishtown Montessori 307 E. Girard Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19125 215-821-1455 Info@fishtownmontessori.com 2- through 6-years old Please email or 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.

Gladwyne Montessori 920 Youngsford Road Gladwyne, PA 19035 610-649-1761 Gladwyne.org 2 years through 6th grade Open House: April 24 at 9:30 AM Please call to schedule 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 CentreSquareMontessori.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

Greene Towne Montessori School 2121 Arch Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 (215) 563-6368 Gtms.org 18 months through Kindergarten Open House: April 16, 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 nona@mch2Learn.org 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 3rd 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.

Montessori Academy - Est. 1965 28 Conrow Road Delran, NJ 08075 (856) 461-2121 18 mos. through Middle School AMI Certified Call or visit MANJ.org to Arrange a tour Open House February 25 - March 1, RSVP

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 Children’s House of Bucks County 840 Trenton Road Fairless Hills, PA 19030 (215) 943-3656 Chbcmontessori.org 18 months through Kindergarten; 13-36 months with parent/caregiver Please call to arrange a visit.

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.

The Children’s House of Philadelphia 2611 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA (215) 570-0757 Phillychildrenshouse.com 18 months through Kindergarten Please call to arrange a tour.

New School of Lancaster 935 Columbia Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603 717-397-7655 Newschool.net Ages 2 through 8th grade

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.

Our House Montessori 1733 Spring Garden Street Philadelphia, PA 19130 (215) 701-3937 info@ourhousemontessori.org Ourhousemontessori.org Ages 18 months through kindergarten

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

Philly Montessori 601 Christian Street Philadelphia PA 19103 215 563-7345 info@phillymontessori.com Phillymontessori.com Ages 18 months through Kindergarten Please email to schedule a tour.

Tours take place Tuesdays 8:30-11am

The Walden School 901 North Providence Road Media, PA 19063 (610) 892-8000 Thewaldenschool.org 2.5 years through 8th grade Please call to arrange a tour on Wednesdays from 9:30 -11:00 a.m., November - May

Quadrat Academy 222 Brown Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 (267) 997-7744 tell.us@quadratacademy.com QuadratAcademy.com Middle and High School (ages 11-18) Inquire about our scholarships 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 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 5 and April 9 at 9 am or drop in any Tuesday for Take-a-Tour Tuesday

MONTESSORI EDUCATION WEEK: FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2019

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FEBRUARY 2019 Vol. 30, No. 2

EXCEPTIONAL educators.

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Providing a comprehensive academic program for children in grades 1-8 who have been identified as having dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences.

Camp 2019 16 LGBTQ Campers Welcome 18 2019 Camp Directory mk

In This Issue 4 Montessori: The Gift of Simple 5 Win It! 6 Grammy-nominated Kids’ Music 8 Kid-free Getaways 10 Guide to Dental Insurance 12 Friends with ADHD 14 Religious Schools for All Faiths 26 Cradle to College Lacrosse Camp 34 MomSpeak Sneak Peek Family Fun 27 Take a Diversity Tour 28 Day-by-Day Calendar

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Moms Know

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

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

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

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

Montessori teachers take great care in the preparation of their classroom environments, guided, in large part, by the idea of simplicity. Everything in the classroom has a purpose and a place where it rests when it is not in use. There is an intuitive sense of order that makes it easy for children to navigate the space and to clean up after themselves successfully. At home, a simple environment can support your child’s concentration, curiosity and sense of calm.

Here are a few guidelines.

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

Less is more

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

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

Practice letting go

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

Publisher: Darlene Weinmann, ext. 108 dweinmann@metrokids.com Managing Editor: Dave Gilmartin, ext. 102 editor@metrokids.com Resource Editor: Cheyenne Shaffer, ext. 101 calendar@metrokids.com Contributing Writers: Terri Akman, Suzanne Koup-Larsen, Frank Lipsius, Kathy O’Connell, Ann L. Rappoport, PhD Production Manager: Veronica Hanna, ext. 103 production@metrokids.com Finance: Marcella Reis, ext. 104 finance@metrokids.com Marketing/Circulation: Susan Braverman, ext. 100 marketing@metrokids.com Intern: Matthew Brooks

Rotate

What to do with the half of your children’s possessions you’ve tucked away?

Create a toy-rotation system. Every few weeks, replace the toys that are available with ones in storage. This creates a new interest in toys that your child may have had for years. Follow your child’s cues to know when it is time to switch. When you notice your child losing interest in the “new” toys, it’s time to rotate. Once you get into a routine, your child will likely let you know when she wants to rotate for some fresh items. Your child will also let you know if a certain toy needs to be available all the time.

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Choose toys mindfully

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

In general, anything with batteries or a screen grabs your child’s passive attention. He can play with these things all day and still not develop one iota of concentration. Even toys with batteries that claim to be educational will do far less for

MetroKids® is published monthly by KidStuff Publications, Inc. © 2019 MetroKids® Magazine. All rights reserved by KidStuff Publications, Inc. ISSN 1094-8503. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material. MetroKids® or KidStuff Pub­lica­t­ions do not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. MetroKids® and SpecialKids® are trademarks of KidStuff Publications, Inc. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Advertisers indemnify and hold harmless the publisher from any claim and all loss, expense, or liability arising out of the publication of any advertisement.

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AWARD–WINNING MEMBER OF THE:

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FEBRUARY 2019

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Win It! Developing Creative Minds Through Playful Learning!

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

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

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Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning Feb. 1. Prizes marked with an asterisk (*) must be picked up at the MetroKids office in Center City.

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Music

Kindie Grammy Nominees These artists are winners, regardless of which of them gets the top prize.

By Kathy O’Connell Little difference lies between the honor of being Grammy nominated for Best Album for Children and actually winning that award. Award hardware is great, but rising to the top among outstanding musical choices for kids and families is no small accomplishment. When the award is presented in the nonbroadcast (online) portion of the Grammy Awards on February 10, a win by any of this year’s nominees will make me happy.

Tim Kubart, Building Blocks Tim Kubart’s 2015 Grammy win in this category for his CD Home during his time as co-host of TV’s Chica Show established his multimedia credentials. His 2018 nomination for Building Blocks shines new light on this phenomenal talent. My heart melts on “Ready for You,” a love song to shelter-pet adoption.

Falu, Falu’s Bazaar

The nomination for Falu’s Falu’s Bazaar expands the intrinsic diversity of kids’ independent music to embrace South Asian music and cultures. Falu’s (aka Falguni Shah) appointment as Carnegie Hall’s Ambassador of Indian Music brought her to the Obama White House. She now brings a lifetime of musical excellence and tradition to new audiences. Falu’s music starts where so many kids’ music starts — on “Pots and Pans.”

Frank and Deane, The Nation of Imagine

Occasionally, a Grammy nod introduces me to a musician, and this year’s nod to Frank and Deane’s The Nation of Imagine came out of the blue for me. This rocking duo brings nice guitar work to an impressive effort.

Lucy Kalantari and The Jazz Cats, All the Sounds The Pop Ups, Giants of Science

Last year’s columns sang the praises of nominees Lucy Kalantari’s All the Sounds and The Pop Ups’ Giants of Science. Told ya!! I’m delighted Grammy voters share my enthusiasm for both creations from the Brooklyn branch of the kindie community.

Kalantari and her band The Jazz Cats celebrate All the Sounds that unite us in her uniquely clarinet-tinged collection that veers between light fun to profound thoughts. NPR Wow in the World Podcast superstars The Pop Ups bring their 80’s flavored pop to a celebration of science and its own superstars for their third Grammy nod. I bow to nobody in my love for this high energy duo whose live show is a visual feast perfectly matched with the CD’s tunes.

This is smart, delightful music.

Remarkable Women

You can’t go wrong bringing home these Grammy-nominated artists but consider looking beyond to some remarkable women whose 2018 releases will stand tall in your music collection: Laura Doherty, High Five Rock and roll from one of kindie’s consistent pleasures. This Chicago-based artist truly understands kids.

Marsha and the Positrons, Positronic DC rocker who takes an occasional jazzy turn. Featuring some terrific collaborations with other kindie folk.

Frances England, Blue Skies Sunny Days There is a wispy quality to Frances England’s voice that brings unique intimacy to every song.

Kathy O’Connell is a contributing writer to MetroKids and host of the Peabody award-winning Kids Corner, on air Monday-Thursday from 7-8pm on WXPN 88.5 FM.

Go to MetroKids.com/kidsmusic for the full music review, plus links and videos for these CDs. 6 MetroKids.com

FEBRUARY 2019

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Mom Matters

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

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

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

Ideas for escape weekends

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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breakfast in bed, catch up on movies.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Write your own promise to recite to your

What to do with the kids Family

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

Friend or Neighbor

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

Babysitter

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

Camp

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

Look for a camp that suits your kids’ interests.

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

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

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

Kim Blaker is a freelance writer.

FEBRUARY 2019

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Moms Know continued from p. 4

your child’s academic success than some good old-fashioned analog toys and activities. Seek out toys, games, and activities that are open-ended and invite curiosity, creativity, voluntary attention, and problem solving. Blocks, puzzles, water works, pegboards, books, puppets, and natural objects that can be counted and sorted are a few options.

The experts in orthopaedic care for kids

Focus on beauty and order

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

Adults seek out these kinds of places to help them access a creative flow and spiritual insights, or to rest and rejuvenate. Bring a little of that wonderful energy into your home by displaying toys and activities in a way that entices and has a clear sense of order. Your children will respond to this simple beauty, just as they do in their classrooms.

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

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Health

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

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

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

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

Employee benefits

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

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

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

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

Affordable Care Act Exchanges

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

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

• Covers kids until age 19.

Private dental insurance

• Only 4 percent of Americans have private dental insurance.

• Private insurance is often very expensive.

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

Public options

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

Discount plans

• Pay an annual fee of up to $200.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orthodontics

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

Special needs

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

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

Suzanne Koup-Larsen is a contributing writer for MetroKids.

No dental insurance

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

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

FEBRUARY 2019

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Kids who are hyper and easily distracted may struggle with friendships. Here’s how you can help.

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

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

Studies have found that more than half of children with ADHD have difficulty with friendships. Children with hyperactivity and impulsivity often have trouble when they have to take turns or filter what they say. Children who are inattentive may not remember names or plans they’ve made, and often miss social cues. The good news is more focus is being given to strategies to help children with ADHD strengthen social skills and develop friendships.

Plan playdates

“We know that kids with ADHD have fewer playdates than other kids,” says Dr. Jenelle Nissley-Tsiopinis, psychologist at the Center for the Management of ADHD at Children’s Hospital InCommunity_Vanguard School.indd 1 1/18/2019 2:03:52 PM of Philadelphia. Parents may shy away from playdates because they can be a challenge or because there isn’t enough time, since kids with ADHD often take longer to complete homework and other daily activities. Still, Nissley-Tsiopinis says, “Research has Daily Instruction in Social-Coping Skills shown that the more playdates a child has the better they do Archery | Music Therapy | Circus Arts socially.”

Claire Noyes, mother of two grown children with ADHD Art Therapy | Sports & Field Games and coordinator of BuxMont CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) says that “because executive functions are often Improv Drama | Computer Gaming delayed, sometimes you have to do social engineering later than and much, much more! you’d expect. I arranged pizza and a movie with friends for my son when he was 14.”

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12 MetroKids.com

Prep for social interactions

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

Before a social event, talk to your child about how she can handle situations. “Ask questions like, ‘What are you going to do if this happens?’ and have your child answer. Role playing can also help,” says Kennedy-Moore.

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

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

FEBRUARY 2019

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SpecialKids

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

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

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

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

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

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

• We all have differences. Appreciate your friend for who he is.

Intervene cautiously

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

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

Kennedy-Moore says you can also call your child into another room and give gentle feedback. For instance, you can say, “I know you’re trying to be helpful.

When you yell how to play the video game, your friend may feel uncomfortable and not want to play.” Then ask, “What can you do to make your friend feel better?” or offer a new activity.

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

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

Susan Stopper is a Pennsylvania-based freelance writer.

MetroKids.com FEBRUARY 2019

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Education

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

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

Right fit, regardless of faith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Supports a child’s special needs

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

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

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

14 MetroKids.com

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

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

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

Faith as a family lesson

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

How do parents of different backgrounds handle this exposure?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We’re not here to make new Quakers.”

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

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MetroKids.com 15

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Camp

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

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

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

‘It’s just no big deal’

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mickey especially appreciates how the camp embraces diversity and holds acceptance

16 MetroKids.com

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

Diversity’s life lessons

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

She appreciates that her kids meet all kinds of children.

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

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

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

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

CAMP

Young generations lead the way

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

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

continued on p. 24

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MetroKids.com 17

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Camp Directory

DELAWARE

Thrilling adventures are in store for children at summer camps throughout the Delaware Valley in 2019! This camp directory includes an ample array of choices for all abilities, ages and interests.

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

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

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

Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps.

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

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 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.

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 experience!

ACA SN

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 for youth ages 8 to 17. June, July & August at Ambler and Main campus. Camps include: Robotics, Art and Drawing, Forensic Science, Theater, Minecraft & more. Visit us on the web at temple.edu/summer/youthcamps

BUCKS 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- & 4- week sessions. Special 1-week sessions for first-time campers ages 7 & 8. ACA

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

DAY Summer is better with Friends! Voted Best Day Camp in Bucks County three years in a row, GSDC is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 14. From archery to arts, swimming to ziplining and everything in between GSDC gives campers experiences and opportunities like none other. Lunch is provided daily!

CIT

Kids U! at Delaware Valley University 700 E. Butler Ave. Doylestown, PA delval.edu/kidsu2019

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!

DELAWARE VALLEY UNIVERSITY

CHESTER Kimberton Waldorf School Summer Camp 410 West Seven Stars Rd. Phoenixville, PA 19460 admissions@kimberton.org kimberton.org

DAY Summer days filled with creek adventures, arts, crafts, creative play, picnics, woodland explorations, games, water play and fun. Our beautiful campus provides a wholesome environment where children can experience the wonders of nature and create memories to last a lifetime.

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

DAY Notre Dame summer programs include dance, science, rowing, and sports camps for middle and high school girls.

Discover, explore, create, and have fun!

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

DAY Language Arts Instruction & Recreation Day Camp for children entering grades 1-6. 5 weeks: July 1 to August 2.

The program places an emphasis on developing executive function skills, self-esteem and confidence, as well as design thinking in our new Innovation Lab. Swimming, science, art, sports and a confidence ropes course included; individual math tutoring available. SN

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 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 April 1 and save 10%!)

SN

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. Full-day program filled with arts & crafts, sports, games and nature exploration. Two-week sessions available from July 22-Aug. 23.

Main Line Art Center 746 Panmure Rd. Haverford, PA; 610-525-0272 info@mainlineart.org mainlineart.org

DAY At the 2019 Main Line Art Center Summer Art Camp, Pre-teen and Teen studios, “Beyond the Page: The Art of Books,” books and art collide each week as campers explore stories, authors, artists and illustrators from the literary world. Creativity and imagination abound during our summer of creative exploration!

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 9.5 acre, wooded campus. Weekly themes guide indoor & outdoor activities that include daily swim lessons, pool games, and free swim in our on-site pools, archery, art, woodshop, sports, dance, nature, drama, music, cooking, and more! Preschool program offers flexible enrollment, older children design their days doing activities they love, and teens participate in the Counselor-In-Training Leadership Program. Two minutes from Media, PA.

The Grayson School 35 N. Malin Rd. Broomall, PA 19008 enrichment@thegraysonschool.org TheGraysonSchool.org/camp

DAY, PROGRAM MISSION TO MARS: How will we get there and survive? Collaborate with fellow scientists to overcome the perils of space and reach Mars. We will launch rockets, engineer a rover, conduct experiments, and train for your mission like an astronaut.

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 23-28, 2019. Classes include musical comedy, Shakespeare, improv, monologues, dance characterization auditions, showtunes. Air-conditioned dorms, good food, experienced staff of professional educators.

MONTGOMERY 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 instruction.

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

18 MetroKids.com

CAMP

FEBRUARY 2019

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Creative Arts Sports Preschool Swim Gymnastics and Dance Teen: Adventure and Leadership • Enivronmental Ed and STEM • Tennis and more!

The YMCA is a cause-driven charitable organization that provides financial assistance for camps.

Ask us for details.

For ages 2 to 18 Full- and half-day options.

Camps vary by branch.

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BRANDYWINE YMCA • JENNERSVILLE YMCA • KENNETT AREA YMCA LIONVILLE COMMUNITY YMCA • OCTORARA Y PROGRAM CENTER OSCAR LASKO YMCA AND CHILDCARE CENTER UPPER MAIN LINE YMCA • WEST CHESTER AREA YMCA

CAMP

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Camp Directory

MONTGOMERY cont.

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 (8am5:45pm) 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 well-equipped playground are the perfect backdrop for summer fun.

Blue Bell Camp Box 444 Blue Bell, PA 19422 215-646-4444 Info@bluebellcamp.net bluebellcamp.net

DAY Providing a traditional day camp experience since 1946.

Boys and Girls 4 to 11 years old. Mature, adult staff made up entirely of professional certified school teachers and coaches.

Campers learn over 20 activities (athletic and creative).

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 38 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.

CIT SN

Camp MELC 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 272 S. Bryn Mawr Ave. Bryn Mawr, PA Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy 610-649-1080 ext. 3 info@camppegasus.com camppegasus.com

DAY Camp Pegasus, in Bryn Mawr, PA, is a co-ed 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 like ADHD, Asperger’s, HFA, improve social competency and increase self-esteem. SN

Center School’s Summer Program 2019 2450 Hamilton Ave. Abington, PA 215-657-2200 mstalker@centerschoolpa.org Centerschoolpa.org

PROGRAM Center School’s Summer Learning and Enrichment Program provides students with academic and recreational opportunities to develop and maintain skills, practice effective learning strategies, and increase abilities.

Help your child realize their potential this summer! For students in grades 1-8. July 8, 2019 to August 2, 2019.

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 17-Aug. 23, 2019. Come for one week or for the whole summer! Call today for details!

MetroKids.com/camps

Elmwood Park Zoo Camp 1661 Harding Blvd.

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

DAY, PROGRAM Children ages 6-11 will explore habits and daily lives of some of the zoo’s wild residents. Each weeklong camp includes a lot of learning and fun, with crafts, stories, snacks, animal visitors, and in-depth tours of the zoo. Regular summer zoo events and shows are incorporated into camp each week. The 2019 season will also feature half-day camps for ages 3-5.

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 Racquet Club 2115 Weber Rd. Lansdale, PA 610-584-5502 Frogtennis.com

DAY Frog Hollow’s Tennis Camp is an exceptional place for children to learn tennis, meet friends and make memories!

Frog Hollow has a camp for all levels and all ages: Tadpoles Camp (ages 3 and 4), Kids Club (ages 5-10), Top Spinners Camp (ages 11-13) or a Competitive Training Camp (ages14 – 18) for High School and Middle School players looking to advance on their team ladder. Invitational camp is available for sectionally and nationally ranked tournament players.

Sign up for a week or the entire summer, for full day or half day (tadpoles camp is 1 hour per day). Camp runs June September; weekly sign ups and extended day are available.

Visit www.Frogcamps.com to learn more SN

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 offers children ages 3 to 16 an amazing all-around day camp experience, instructional sports camps with GA coaches, and specialized camps in the arts, sciences, and technology 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.

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

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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FEBRUARY 2019

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

Camp Lee Mar 2017 Dates:

145 boys and girls ages 7-16 2 - 8 week sessions June 23 - August 17, 2019

June 24-August 11

www.echohillcamp.com info@echohillcamp.com ph. 410.348.5303

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2019 Dates: June 22 - August 9

Winter Office: Camp Lee Mar Ph: 215-658-1708 Fax: 215-658-1710 Please visit us on

On YouTube you can view parents and campers talking about their experiences at Lee Mar.

George School Day Camp a High-energy, hands-on stem camp

Open to children ages 4-14.

Lunch is provided daily.

Save $25 using promo code: INNOVATE25RPRINT at invent.org/camp

Best in Bucks three years in a row!

www.gsdaycamp.org FEBRUARY 2019

CAMP

MetroKids.com 21

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Camp Directory

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! Riverbend campers will embark on outdoor adventures that spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and inspire scientific investigation and discovery.

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 10th to August 30th, are available for children ages 3-11. In addition to our traditional Exploration Camps, adventure-packed Navigator Camps are also offered for ages 10-13. New for 2019, Riverbend is offering Navigators Leadership Academy for kids ages 11-14. For more information, please visit our website. CIT

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!

Ursinus College Summerburst Camps 601 East Main St. Collegeville, PA ursinus.edu/summer/

DAY Fun, safe and challenging collegiate-level instruction at Ursinus College’s exceptional athletic facilities. We place an emphasis on fundamentals, skill development, and team play for beginners through advanced players in 15 different sports. Plus, unique academic enrichment programs taught by area experts

Early Childhood Environments 762 S. Broad St. 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.

PHILADELPHIA

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

DAY, PROGRAM June 24-Aug. 2, 2019. 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: Upper-level, comprehensive training for intermediate to advanced-level students (boys & girls, 11-17) in ballet, pointe, modern & jazz, culminating in a performance (5 weeks).

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

DAY Mix and match more than 20 camps. Day, Sports, Performing Arts, Science, Electronic Music, Drone, Robotics, Rocketry, Handwork Studio, Dance, Pottery, Chess, MineCraft, Girls Empowerment, Tennis, Squash, Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling. Experience everything! Lunch available.

CIT

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

DAY Journey through time and across continents without leaving Philadelphia! During summer 2019, 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.

Penn Tennis Camp / Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps 240 S. 31st St. 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 10 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. Brand New in 2019, we will be offering 1 week overnight camp that promises to be quite popular.

Society Hill Synagogue 418 Spruce St. Philadelphia, PA 19106 soz@societyhillsynagogue.org societyhillsynagogue.org/ playschool

DAY Our summer camp curriculum wonderfully blends hands-on exploration, literacy and language acquisition, thematic art projects, outdoor play, and splash zone thrills for children ages 2-5. Flexible 8-week program June 3-July 26, with two week-long specialty camps July 29-August 9.

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

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

Residential housing is in air-conditioned mountain chalets CIT

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

Mercersburg Academy Summer Programs Mercersburg, PA 717-328-6225 summerprograms@mercersburg.edu Mercersburgsummer.com

DAY Mercersburg Summer is all about fun. Nestled in the mountains of south-central Pennsylvania, Mercersburg Academy’s beautiful campus provides the perfect setting for a wide range of opportunities for learning, personal growth, and most importantly, fun. Each summer, participants from all over the world take part in an array of programs, ranging from Mercersburg Adventure Camp to various Enrichment, Arts, and Sports Camp.

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

Science Explorers 110 West Wyomissing Ave. Mohnton, PA 877-870-9517 scienceexplorers.com

DAY Science Explorers is an innovative, hands-on science company for children ages 4-11 to become engaged in the wonders of science. Science Explorers week long summer camp will make science cool and exciting through our interactive, hands-on format. Ever dissect a shark? What about a squid? Made glowing slime? Examined a real heart? Built and launched your own rocket? Lifted a person using nothing but air? These are some of the awesome experiments that make our summer camps so popular. Nominated for Educator of the Year--TWICE!

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

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 OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER

NEW Camp Caribbean

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

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

mk smart. local. parenting.

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

22 MetroKids.com

CAMP

FEBRUARY 2019

2019

BURST INTO SUMMER

with exceptional opportunities for fun and enrichment.

For more information & registration

URSINUSCAMPS.COM

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The camp where young players fulfill their potential with instruction from the nation's top college coaches.

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WEEK JULY 1-5* HIGHER LEARNING FOR YOUR GAME 2019 DATES WEEK 5: JULY 8-12 The camp where young players their potential WEEKfulfill 6: JULY 15-19 WEEK 1: JUNE with instruction from the nation's top college coaches.10-14 WEEK 7: JULY 22-26 WEEK JUNE217-21 WEEK 8: JULY2: 29-AUG 3: JUNE 24-28 1:WEEK JUNE 10-14 WEEK 9: AUG 5-9 � WEEK 2: JUNE4: 17-21 WEEK JULY 1-5* WEEK 3: JUNE5: 24-28 2019 DATES WEEK JULY 8-12 WEEK 4: JULY6: 1-5* WEEK JULY 15-19 2019 DATES WILSON COLLEGIATE TENNIS CAMP I PENN TENNIS WEEK 5:CAMP JULY 8-12 WEEK 7: JULY WEEK 6: JULY 15-19 22-26 www.wilsontenniscamps.com/penn/ WEEK JULY 29-AUG 2 WEEK 7: JULY 8: 22-26 AUG 5-9 JULY9: 29-AUG 2 � WEEK 8:WEEK WEEK 9: AUG 5-9 �

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FEBRUARY 2019

CAMP

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continued from p. 16

OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER CCArts Fine & Performing Arts Camp 410 Upper Snuff Mill Row Yorklyn, DE 302-239-2434 nschmid@ccarts.org ccarts.org

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

Portfolio prep and camps for older teens also.

Centreville Layton School Summer Program 6201 Kennett 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

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

RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL Camp Fairlee provides a traditional summer camp experience for children (age 6+) and adults with various disabilities including developmental, CP, MD, MS, orthopedic impairments and other disabilities. Special Autism weeks with 1:1 counseling. Wall climbing, high ropes, zip-lining, pool, canoeing & kayaking horseback riding plus other activities. Nurses on staff 24/7. We also have off season respite weekends for children and adults. In addition we also have travel trips for adults over age 18. All facilities are new including our 12,000 square foot activity center, new health center, expanded dining hall, and four new cabins. ACA, SN

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

RESIDENTIAL Echo Hill Camp on the Chesapeake Bay is a traditional, sleep-away summer camp with 2- to 8- week sessions. Non-competitive, free-choice program. Waterskiing, sailing, wakeboarding, crabbing, ropes course, nature, art and much more! ACA

Liberty Lake Day Camp 1195 Florence-Columbus Rd. Bordentown, NJ, 08505 609-499-7820 Libertylakedaycamp.com

DAY Liberty Lake Day Camp teaches life skills to inspire young people to change the world. Make new friends and create lasting summer memories! On 60 magnificent shady acres, campers choose their own schedules through the “Freedom of Choice” elective program - over 60 activities! Serving Phila/ Lower Bucks.

ACA

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 house on Saturdays, from 12-3 PM, February 9th, March 16th, April 21st and May 18th.

ACA

NEW Tomato Patch @ Kelsey

Theatre 1200 Old Trenton Rd. West Windsor, NJ 609-570-3566 projects@mccc.edu kelseyatmccc.org/tomato_patch.shtml

DAY Tomato Patch Visual and Performing Arts Workshops, held annually on the West Windsor Campus of Mercer County Community College, is one of the longest-running and most successful multi-disciplinary summer arts programs in central New Jersey. Students spend several weeks of their summer exploring the visual arts, dance, theater, and vocal music under the guidance of a highly qualified staff of teaching professional artists.

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.

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

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

Questions parents should ask

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

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

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

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

KEY Has 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

24 MetroKids.com

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How do

YOU beat the

winter blues? mk has your answer...

Every day during February, log on to

Metrokids.com/WinterFun for

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

days 28 Winter of

fun

FEBRUARY 2019

Summer STEM Camps For ages 7-11 • Junior camps for ages 4-6

Penn Charter Summer Camps:

Making Summer Fun for 50 Years Penn Charter Summer Camps celebrated 50 fun-filled summers last year. What once was simply traditional Day Camp has evolved into the best of Day Camp, plus Sports Camp, Performing Arts Camp, and specialty camps that include rocketry, drones, MineCraft, sewing, girls empowerment, pottery and electronic music.

Charlie Kaesshaefer, camp director who began as a junior counselor 50 years ago, has built the program to include selection and variety.

“While [kids] get to take part in some of the traditional camp activities that we have offered for 50 years,” he said, “they also get to try new things and mix it up with new camps that offer specific skills in an array of areas.” Each year brings new offerings.

Kaesshaefer isn’t just camp director; he is a longtime teacher and assistant director of lower school at Penn Charter. So he is tuned into child development and the important role that summer camp can play.

“Building memories and lasting friendships are key,” he said. “Being outside for much of the day is important for kids’ physical, social and emotional development.

[At Day Camp,] 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.”

Kaesshaefer also believes in keeping it fresh. Each year Day Camp has a different theme, with special events and trips planned around it. This year’s theme is the Renaissance/Medieval Times. Theme-related fun will include a medieval feast, castle- and banner-making contest, a Renaissance faire, and a trip to Fonthill Castle for older bunks. Will there be jousting? Well, Kaesshaefer keeps some details to himself until summer!

New

locations added daily!

Build and launch your own rocket!

Mix up chemistry potions!

Make magnetic slime!

Celebrating Make a model lung!

20 Years!

Dissect a squid!

If it’s not fun, we’re not doing it!

www.ScienceExplorers.com Summer Camp at the School in Rose Valley

Penn Charter Summer Camps, June 10 – Aug. 9, is for boys and girls ages 3-15.

We offer options for a healthy lunch, transportation, extended day for many camps.

Open House!

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

Sat., March 9 10am–12noon

Flourtown Boys & Girls AGES 3-15 Swim Club and Flourtown Experience Everything JUNE 10-AUG.9 20+ CAMPS, INCLUDING:

Performing Arts Sports Minecraft Dance Pottery Electronic Music Girls Empowerment Chess Sewing Science Drones Robotics Rocketry The Best Of Traditional Day Camp

penncharter.com/summercamp WILLIAM PENN CHARTER SCHOOL 3000 West School House Lane, Philadelphia

215.844.3460 ext. 364 FEBRUARY 2019

theschoolinrosevalley.org

Summer Day Swim ClubCamp and Flourtown Summer Swim Day ClubCamp and

Traditional Summer Day Camp Boys and Girls Ages 4-14

Summer Day Camp

Traditional Summer Day Camp Boys and Girls Ages 4-14

CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM

10-Week Program 23 Traditional Summer Day Camp • June CIT17-Aug. Program Boys and Girls Ages 4-14 Extended care both AM and PM

OPEN HOUSE DATES: Saturdays, Feb. 16th & March 16th • 10am-2pm Swim Lessons • Recreational Swimming • Archery • Golf ACTIVITIES •• Daily Baseball/Softball • Soccer • Tennis • Basketball • Lacrosse INCLUDE.... • Field Hockey • Volleyball • Arts & Crafts • Music • Dance For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director • Culinary Arts • GaGa Pit • Sustainable Gardening • Tutoring Services dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director

dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net Bethlehem Pike,Flourtown, Flourtown, PA • 215-836-1429 15281528 Bethlehem Pike, PA • 215-836-1429

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

www.flourtownswimclub.net www.flourtownswimclub.net www.flourtownswimclub.net

CAMP

MetroKids.com 25

Sponsored Content

From Cradle to College NXTsports lacrosse camps offer kids, from beginner to elite, a chance to explore the sport and hone their skills.

Summer will be here before you know it, and as hard as it may be to grasp the concept of warmer weather again, it isn’t too early to start considering how your child will spend their summer days.

Signing your child up for a sports camp not only ensures your kid won’t be glued to their phone or Fortnite all day, but provides social interaction, physical activity, and helps continue their interest in something they are passionate about.

Summer camps provide kids with a structured opportunity to grow and keep themselves active while meeting new friends and learning new skills.

NXTsports offers children in the Philadelphia area a chance to explore the world of lacrosse through a series of camps ranging from beginner to elite.

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“We want to make each experience matter because we understand the importance of what happens on a field possibly impacting a child way beyond childhood,” says Marty Kupprion, VP of Boys Lacrosse at NXT. Kupprion has overseen the boys programs for 10 years alongside colleagues from NXT’s headquarters out of the Navy Yard in Philadelphia.

“We have run over 80 lacrosse camps and clinics, 25 boys and girls club lacrosse teams, and 41 lacrosse tournaments and recruiting Showcases both locally and across the country,” Kupprion continues. Attendees of NXTsports summer camps have the opportunity to work alongside former and current DI, DII, and DIII coaches and players. New to the NXT team, but not the lacrosse world, is Candace Bossell, former head coach at La Salle University. Bossell now oversees the girls programs and clubs at NXT. “Sports are exciting and tough,” says

26 MetroKids.com

Bossell. “My goal is for my players to love the game even more now than when they first started playing. If I am successful at that, the wins and losses will take care of themselves. My coaching philosophy can be summed up in one statement — you can, you will.” Both Bossell and Kupprion, along with their carefully selected team of coaches, will be at each camp, providing parents the opportunity to receive feedback on their children as well as ask coaches questions.

The 8-to-1 player-to-coach ratio keeps things moving. In the morning, players work on individual skill development and team concepts, with the afternoon dedicated to team bonding, splash games, and scrimmages.

Cradle Lacrosse

NXT’s beginner series, known as Cradle Lacrosse, teaches basic skills in a one-ofa-kind, unrivaled environment. Cradle’s four-day camp focuses on building players’ confidence and having success through its unique curriculum, which introduces kids to lacrosse in a fun way.

Cradle Lacrosse is open to boys and girls ages 4–8 who want to learn lacrosse. No equipment is needed, so you don’t have to worry about having a stick gathering cobwebs in the garage if your child determines this isn’t for them! Experience is not required — just come play!

Play Fast Camp

Play Fast Camp is NXT’s fundamental-level four-day camp for girls and boys ages 7–14 who want to tune their skills and elevate their game. For players of all levels and positions, including goalie, the carefully designed Play Fast curriculum skips the lines and puts players through fast-paced, high-energy drills.

NXT Lacrosse Academy Summer Camp New this year is the NXT Lacrosse Academy Summer Camp (NLA). The NLA Camp is a continuation of the NXT Winter Lacrosse Academy. This elite training is for high-performing lacrosse players driven to take their game even higher. The program matches a player’s intensity with small-group, position-based instruction built on a Division I training curriculum. This isn’t a time to run through the motions in your average drill. NXT is taking it one step further and offering the four-time sold-out NLA winter program in the summer!

To sign up for a NXT summer camp or learn more about the coaches, visit nxtsports.com. For more information regarding boys summer camps email Marty Kupprion at coachkupp@nxtsports.com.

For information on NXT’s girls summer camps, email Candace Bossell at candace@nxtsports.com.

nxtsports.com FEBRUARY 2019

mk

Family Fun

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

Find more venues at MetroKids.com/diversity.

PENNSYLVANIA African American Museum, Phila.

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

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

National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila.

Dedicated to exploring the history of the Jewish people through artifacts, stories and media, the museum’s core exhibit is a multi-floor, centuries-spanning timeline that chronicles the experiences of Jewish individuals who immigrated to the U.S. Insider’s tip: Enjoy FREE admission this month.

Polish-American Cultural Center, Phila.

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

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

NEW JERSEY African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, Atlantic City American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila.

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

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

Asian Arts Initiative, Phila.

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

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

FEBRUARY 2019

Documenting 20th-century AfricanAmerican experiences, the museum is home to thousands of artifacts including drawings, paintings and household items.

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

Indian Cultural Center of South Jersey, Marlton

This hub for the local Indian community hosts dance and fitness classes, performances and other public events.

Insider’s tip: The central hall is adorned with vibrant, larger-than-life murals that depict Indian musical instruments and classical dances.

DELAWARE AND MARYLAND Chinese-American Community Center, Hockessin

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

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

New Castle Court House Museum, New Castle

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

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

Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore

With an array of artifacts, video footage and audio stations, the museum provides an interactive look at local and national history. The permanent collection takes families on a journey through 400 years of African-American history in Maryland, with a focus on politics, sports, art and education.

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

Peter Mott House, Lawnside

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

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

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

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Family Fun

See how many witch-hazel varieties you can spot at Morris Arboretum, Feb. 16.

FEBRUARY

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event Family Drawing Day

3 Sunday

Valentine's event

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

2 Saturday

African-American Children’s Book Fair at the Community College of Philadelphia. See “Town & County,” p. 30. FREE America to Zanzibar: Muslim Cultures Near and Far at the Please Touch Museum, Phila.

Learn about historic and modern Muslim cultures from around the globe. Through Sept. 2. $$$

PNC Grow Up Great

9 Saturday

Bank of America Museums on Us, Chadds Ford, Doylestown & Phila. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders get access to participating venues including the African American Museum in Philadelphia, Museum of the American Revolution, Brandywine River Museum of Art and Michener Art Museum. FREE Chinese New Year Celebration at Elmwood Park Zoo, Norristown. Ring in the Year of the Pig with an “Animals of the Zodiac” presentation and crafts. $$$ Lunar New Year at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. Activities include calligraphy, martial arts and performances. $$$ Mini-Golf Tournament at Linvilla Orchards, Media. Today’s tourney is kid-friendly. $$$$

Sugar Maple Trees Program

24 Sunday

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

Winter Wonderland at the Wagner Free Institute of Science, Phila. Festivities focus on Groundhog Day and weather folklore. FREE

3 Sunday

Bank of America Museums on Us, Chadds Ford, Doylestown & Phila. See Feb. 2. FREE Family Arts Academy: Game Day at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Don your favorite team jersey to enjoy face painting and art games. FREE Family Drawing Day at Michener Art Museum, Doylestown. $$ First Sunday Family Day: Breaking Boundaries at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Construct selfportraits from collage materials, make peace flags and buttons and design valentines. FREE First Sunday for Families at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. Make valentine cards and collages. FREE Lunar New Year Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Visit the newly renovated Chinese art galleries and watch a dance performance. Pay what you wish Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$

FEBRUARY 2019

FAN OF . . . GIRL SCOUT COOKIES Whether you’re nuts about Peanut-Butter Patties or craving Caramel deLites, there are plenty of treats to go around during Girl Scout Cookie Month. Head to shops in Philly’s Manayunk on Saturdays and Sundays to purchase your favorites from local troops, and visit participating restaurants to try cookie-themed dishes. Or go to Gsep.org and click on "cookies" to find sweet sales near you.

Valentine Bug/Rhythm Adventure at Cedar Park, Phila.

Decorate insect magnets and rhythm boards, then play games and take a walk. $$$

Family Painting Night: Valentine Dreams at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. $$$$

Winterfest at Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington. Frosty fun includes crafts, games and animal presentations. FREE

African-American Women: Slavery to Freedom at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 30. $$$

Winter Wildlife Hike at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE

GiveBack Workshop: Sole Hope at the National Liberty Museum, Phila. Families make shoes for those in need. $$

4 Monday

9 Saturday

Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 1. $$$

Owl Prowl at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. Learn about the nocturnal creature and search for them. $$

7 Thursday

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

Children's Nature Series: Nature Valentines at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Transform paper hearts into animals and make valentines. $ Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More! at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $ Masters of Illusion Live at the Keswick Theatre, Glenside. This fast-paced show features sleight-of-hand experts, escape artists, comedy magicians and illusionists. $$$$

8 Friday

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

PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE Second Saturday: Egyptian Adventures at the Penn Museum, Phila. Discover the world of ancient Egypt via gallery tours, a scavenger hunt and an art project. $$$ Valentine Workshop for Kids at Pennypacker Mills, Schwenksville. Create a 3D card, heart-shaped sun catcher, a “flower-inhand” gift and a wooden frame inscribed with a poem. $ Valentine’s Date Night at the Clay Studio, Phila. See “Parents’ Night Out,” left. $$$$

10 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Painting and Text at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Explore how text and visuals can be combined to make a masterpiece. FREE Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$ Valentine’s Date Night at the Clay Studio, Phila. See “Parents’ Night Out,” left. $$$$

11 Monday

Read and Romp: One at the National Liberty Museum, Phila.

Activities include storytime, crafts and games. $$

12 Tuesday

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

Grab your sweetie, set up a sitter for the kids and get creative during The Clay Studio’s Valentine’s Date Night in Philly, Feb. 9, 10, 14 & 15. Couples enjoy a candlelit lesson on how to use the pottery wheel, as well as chocolate, champagne, wine and music.

FEBRUARY 2019

Stroller Tour at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. Focuses on the exhibit American Beauty: Selections from the Richard M. Scaife Bequest. $$$

14 Thursday

Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: In My Heart at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $ Sweetheart Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. $$$ Valentine’s Date Night at the Clay Studio, Phila. See “Parents’ Night Out,” left. $$$$

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Family Fun

15 Friday

One-Day Camp at the Handwork Studio, Narberth. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$ Philly Home and Garden Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. While parents browse, kids can join make-and-take workshops and enjoy live music. $$ Presidents Day Camp: Habitat Explorers at Riverbend Environmental Education Center, Gladwyne. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$ Valentine’s Date Night at the Clay Studio, Phila. See “Parents’ Night Out,” p. 29. $$$$

16 Saturday

Nature Exploration for Families at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. FREE Nature Storytime at the Churchville Nature Center, Churchville. FREE

“Witch Hazel” is Your Favorite? at Morris Arboretum, Phila. Experience the colors and fragrance of winter during this map-led exploration where kids try to find 70-plus varieties of witch hazel. $$$

17 Sunday

Birdfeeder Adventure at Liberty Lands Park, Phila. Make a decorative birdfeeder, play games and explore the grounds. $$$ Family Arts Academy: Collaboration at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila.

Work in pairs and teams to create a collaborative painting. FREE Jack Hanna performs at the Keswick Theatre, Glenside. “Jungle Jack” shares tales from his adventures as a wildlife conservationist. $$$$ Philly Home and Garden Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See Feb. 15. $$

18 Monday

Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns and Mermaids at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. This new exhibit, running through June 9, explores how real animals inspired tales of mythic creatures. Kids touch fossils, build dragons and meet a “sea monster.” $$$

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

Philly Home and Garden Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See Feb. 15. $$

Presidents Day Camp: Habitat Explorers at Riverbend Environmental Education Center, Gladwyne. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$

Read and Romp: One at the National Liberty Museum, Phila. See Feb. 11. $$

Town & County: Black History Month

One-Day Camp at the Handwork Studio, Narberth. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$

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

PHILADELPHIA Branches of the Free Library of Philadelphia feature a slew of events, from book clubs, poetry readings and performances to historical presentations and a community conversation on how to teach kids about African-American history.

The National Constitution Center also offers programming all month. Visitors learn the history of the Civil War and Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments, then test their knowledge with a giant board-game activity.

On Feb. 2, bring the kids to the African-American Children’s Book Fair at the Community College of Philadelphia, where families meet bestselling authors and illustrators and engage in activities that promote the power of reading.

KIDS’ DAY OFF

And, on Feb. 9, the Independence Seaport Museum hosts African-American Women: Slavery to Freedom, a panel discussion centered on their struggles for freedom and equal rights.

Looking for a way to keep the kids busy Presidents Day weekend, Feb. 15 & 18 while you’re at work? Sign them up for the Handwork Studio’s One-Day Camp in Narberth, where kids learn how to use a sewing machine and make projects to take home. Or send them to Presidents Day Camp at Riverbend Environmental Education Center in Gladwyne to explore habitats and get some fresh air.

Philly’s Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, meanwhile, offers its Day-Off Camp on Feb. 18 and calls on kids to search for signs of animal activity and build winter shelters.

30 MetroKids.com

FEBRUARY 2019

20 Wednesday

Children's Nature Series: Backyard Birds at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Find out how birds adapt to cold weather and identify local species. $

21 Thursday

Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: Lines That Wiggle at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $

23 Saturday

Access to Science at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila.

Kids on the autism spectrum and their families experience the venue in a sensory-friendly setting. $$$ Birdfeeder Adventure at Cedar Park, Phila. See Feb. 17. $$$ Mummers Mardi Gras Festival at 2300 Arena, Phila. This indoor-outdoor fest features string-band performances, family activities, food trucks, face painting and a Philly sports-themed auction. $$ Pancake Breakfast and Maple-Sugaring Celebration at Tyler Arboretum, Media. Visit maple-sugaring stations to discover how syrup is made, then enjoy a meal. $$$

24 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Fantastic Beasts at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a mythological creature inspired by the “beasts” that roam the galleries. FREE

PERFORMANCES On Golden Pond at the Bristol Riverside Theatre, Bristol. Through Feb. 10. $$$$ R.L. Stine's Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium at the Walnut Street Theatre, Phila. Feb. 2-9. $$$

Maple-Sugar Day and Pancake Breakfast at the Churchville Nature Center, Churchville. Families learn how to tap trees, collect sap and make syrup before the meal. $$

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Academy of Music, Phila.

Feb. 8, 10, 15 & 17. $$$$

Sugar Maple Trees Program at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Learn how to make pure maple syrup and taste-test it compared to commercial varieties. FREE

American Girl Live at the Perelman Theater, Phila. Feb. 14-17. $$$$

25 Monday

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

28 Thursday

Children’s Read-Aloud Tour: The Very Hungry Caterpillar at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $

How do

Cirque Mechanics at the Zellerbach Theatre, Phila. Feb. 17. $$$$ Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (pictured) at the Academy of Music, Phila. Feb. 22-24. $$$$ Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

YOU beat the

winter blues? mk has your answer...

Every day during February, log on to

Metrokids.com/WinterFun for

Toy & ticket giveaways • Craft ideas & activities Easy recipes • Cool local events FEBRUARY 2019

Junie B. Jones at the Keswick Theatre, Glenside. Feb. 14. $$$

days 28 Winter of

fun

MetroKids.com 31

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Child Care & Early Education Directory

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

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

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

SWARTHMORE/MEDIA, DELAWARE COUNTY

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

SCHOOL IN ROSE VALLEY, THE 20 School Ln., Rose Valley, PA • 610-566-1088 TheSchoolinRoseValley.org • Ages: Preschool-Grade 6 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm With over 80 years of experience, The School in Rose Valley offers a progressive, Preschool – 6th Grade program committed to the development of the whole child. Full and part time enrollment options are available for Preschool and Kindergarten students.

Weekly special subjects include Woodshop, Spanish, Science, Art, Music and Sports. SRV is located on a beautiful 9.5 acre campus just minutes from Media, PA. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, PAIS

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

BUCKS COUNTY BRIGHT BEGINNERS ACADEMY 800 Clarmont Ave., Suite A, Bensalem, PA 19020 • 267-5207200 Brightbeginnersacademy.com • Ages: 6 wks. to 6 yrs. • 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 TREVOSE DAY SCHOOL / NESHAMINY MONTESSORI 4951 Central Ave., Trevose, PA 19053 215–355-4373 • trevosedayschool.org • neshaminymontessori.org • Ages: 2.5-10 yrs.

Hours: 7am-6pm Established in 1970, our programs excel at offering state-of-the-art education in a community-minded 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

CHESTER COUNTY KIMBERTON WALDORF SCHOOL 410 W. Seven Stars Rd. Kimberton, PA 610-933-3635 • Ages: PreK- 12th grade • Hours: 8am-3:15pm At Kimberton Waldorf School, learning is a process of discovery that engages the whole human being. Instead of passively receiving information, our students are involved in a dynamic process of exploration and experience, both of the world and of themselves. Emphasis on the breadth of skills and opportunities that we value in childhood and in adulthood provides a reminder that education needs to be designed to produce holistically developed learners who are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of life in the 21st century. We develop analytical thinkers with imaginative minds capable of producing life-changing ideas. Our students build capacities and skills of creativity, resourcefulness, collaboration, perseverance, integrity, and ethical understanding. How we teach this matters. Every aspect of Waldorf education is intentional and planned. Why we teach this way matters. At each stage of child development, students are challenged, capacities are built, foundations are set, and opportunities are given.

When we teach things matters.

MAIN LINE, DELAWARE COUNTY FRIENDS SCHOOL HAVERFORD 851 Buck Lane, Haverford, PA 19041 • 610-642-2334 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

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LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY OF GARNET VALLEY 1363 Naamans Creek Rd., Garnet Valley, PA 610-364-2000 • lightbridgeacademy.com/locations/Garnet-Valley-PA Ages: 6 wks. – 5 yrs. • 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*

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 wooded 11-acre campus just outside Northwest Philadelphia, Miquon is a co-educational day school offering Progressive education for children in Nursery (age three) through Sixth Grade. 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. Optional van service available. AY, SP, BS, AS, PAIS

MAIN LINE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY 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 (7:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.) and three-, four-, and five-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

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

FEBRUARY 2019

mk

Child Care & Early Education Directory CENTER CITY/SOCIETY HILL, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY

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

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

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*

EARLY CHILDHOOD ENVIRONMENTS 762 South Broad St. Phila., PA 19146 215-844-0178 • www.ecedesigns.com • Ages: 3-12 yrs. • 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*

TEMPLE BETH HILLEL – BETH EL EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 1001 Remington Rd., Wynnewood, PA • 610-649-2277 Tabber.org • Ages: 3 mos.-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

SOCIETY HILL SYNAGOGUE 418 Spruce Street Phila., PA 19106 • 215-922-6590 www.societyhillsynagogue.org • Ages: 2-5 yrs. • 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

WALDRON MERCY ACADEMY 513 Montgomery Ave., Merion Station, PA 19066 610-664-9847 • www.waldronmercy.org Ages: 3 yrs.-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 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

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

What are you looking for?

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

FIND US

MetroKids.com/childcare

Music, Art & Laughs!

ONLINE mk

FEBRUARY 2019

Taking Applications NOW for

FALL ENROLLMENT Norristown Business Area

DRAWINGS, SONGS & SILLINESS

MrDavid.com 610 -239-8177

smart. local. parenting.

MetroKids.com

CHILD CARE

1920 Marshall Street Jeffersonville, PA 610-539-7743

In the Historic Curtis Center 601 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106

215-733-9271 PARTIES

FESTIVALS

SCHOOLS

6:00am-6:30pm Certified Teachers Member of Keystone Stars Program

Cameras in our classrooms provide you with online observation of your child’s day!

• Family Owned & Operated • Mature, Professional Staff • Literacy Based Curriculum • Multicultural Setting

www.busybeeschildcare.com MetroKids.com 33

mk

MomSpeak

The MomSpeak Roundup

Moms know things. Find out what kind of things at MetroKids.com/MomSpeak where we keep an eye out for the best local parenting blogs and share with you their tips, observations and humor. This month, check out these three.

Join our team.

Flexible hours and options

30-Day Challenge Katie Lockwood, of MommyCallBlog.com, has never been a fan of resolutions. Instead, this year she will take a 30-day Well Challenge designed to create healthy habits in a month. She’s all in “as long as that includes no more than a few minutes of exercise and lots of chocolate.”

Find new partners interested in reaching Delaware Valley families.

He Doesn’t Need an IEP “His grades are fine! He doesn’t need an IEP,” is how Lisa Lightner titles this blog post on ADayinOurShoes.com. If you have a child who is in a gifted program at school, but still struggles in some areas, you’ll want to read this.

We are seeking friendly, connected parents to be our Marketing Consultant.

Sales experience helpful but will train the right person.

9 Ways to Change Your Life If you want to change something, anything, about your life, Darla DeMorrow of HeartWorkOrg.com has nine ways to make it happen. One of them is to get more sleep, and who wouldn’t be on board with that?

34 MetroKids.com

Send cover letter and resume to dweinmann@metrokids.com

FEBRUARY 2019

please touch museum

Muslim Cultures Near and Far February 2 - September 2, 2019 Explore and celebrate modern and historic Muslim cultures from the Greater Philadelphia region, our country and the world.

America to Zanzibar Program Highlights • Buy, sell and trade spices and design clothing through imaginative play in the global marketplace.

• Experience the everyday lives of Muslim American families.

• Discover world-class objects and artifacts on loan from the Free Library of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

• Experience performances and art demonstrations by Muslim American artists, musicians and storytellers.

• AND SO MUCH MORE! *Admission to this exhibit is included with Museum general admission.

Major support for America to Zanzibar at Please Touch Museum has been provided by

with additional support from

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission The Mayor’s Fund for Philadelphia Connelly Foundation Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation

pleasetouchmuseum.org

4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131 • 215-581-3181 America to Zanzibar: Muslim Cultures Near and Far was developed by the Children’s Museum of Manhattan.

Are your Children’s Teeth REALLY Healthy?

The Kids’ Dentist, Kids LOVE to Visit!

8 Fun, Colorful locations:

Roxborough • Northeast • Lower Northeast • South Philly Doylestown • Dresher • Jenkintown • Newtown Square

Call for an appointment:

215-543-5555 Philadelphia’s premier pediatric dental practice for over 37 years

www.cavitybusters.com