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April 2018 • free Pennsylvania

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Contents

April 2018 • Vol. 29, No. 4

CAMP 2018

Camp 2018 20 Great Outdoors 22 Horseback Riding 24 Camp Directory

Autism Awareness 4 Autism Awareness Events 16 Managing Mealtime 18 Autism School Survey 23 Hippotherapy

16

In This Issue 6 A is for April 6 Win It! 7 Self Care for Moms 8 A Corner for Kids 10 Caffeine and Kids 12 A Global Mindset 14 Talking about Disabilities Family Fun 34 Nature Centers 36 Day-by-Day Events Calendar

THE FREE LIBRARY OF PHILADELPHIA PRESENTS

SUNDAYS on STAGE THE FREE LIBRARY OF PHILADELPHIA PRESENTS THE FREE LIBRARY OF PHILADELPHIA PRESENTS

SUNDAYS on STAGE A series of free performances for children, families, and adults

Select Sundays throughout Spring 2018 All performances begin at 2:00 p.m. adults , families, and ildren ances for rmopen (Doors at ch 1:30 p.m.)

A series of free perfo

10

g 2018

ghout Sprin s throuperformances ayfree t Sund lecseries SeThis A of is made possible gin by funding the .

0 p.m at 2:0from be A series series of free performances s ce an perform All Philadelphia City Institute Board ofp.m Managers. .)

0 1:3 at open for and (Doorsfamilies, for children, children, families, and adults adults

Ad Sections 3 Events; 11 Health; 13 Education; 17 Autism Services 19 Special Needs; 23 Camps; 33 Bulletin Board; 33 Classes 41 Child Care

the sible by funding from This series is made pos

itute Board Philadelphia City Inst

of Managers.

Select throughout Select Sundays Sundays throughout Spring Spring 2018 2018 Parkway Central Library All performances begin at 2:00 p.m.

1901 Vine begin Street at 2:00 p.m.

All performances 215-686-5372 (Doors open (Doors open at at 1:30 1:30 p.m.) p.m.) freelibrary.org/sundaysonstage

This series is made possible by funding from the This series is made possible by funding from the Philadelphia City Institute Board of Managers.

Philadelphia City Institute Board of Managers.

What are you looking for?

KIDS’ CAMPS Parkway Central Library Parkway Central Library 1901 Vine Street 1901 Vine Street 215-686-5372 215-686-5372

freelibrary.org/sundaysonstage

CHECK OUT OUR CAMP DIRECTORY APRIL 2018

page 24freelibrary.org/sundaysonstage • MetroKids.com/camps

MetroKids.com 3

MK Memo

AUTISM AWARENESS EVENTS All month

Puzzle Ribbon Campaign The Greater Philadelphia Autism Society provides free autism-awareness puzzle pins to schools in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Request yours at Asaphilly.org.

April 1

Flyers Autism Awareness Day, Wells Fargo Center, Phila.

April 7

Phillies’ Autism Awareness Night, Citizens Bank Park, Phila.

April 8

Autism Awareness Day, Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. Visit an autism research expo and marketplace, sensory and craft stations, magic shows, jugglers, live music and character appearances.

April 14

Sensory-friendly Saturday: Adventures in Art, Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. Visitors on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorder and their families engage in art activities and explore the venue in a modified setting.

April 15

Huddle Up for Autism with the Philadelphia Eagles, Lincoln Financial Field, Phila. Meet players and cheerleaders, take tours of the field and locker room, and enjoy face painting, moonbounces, magic shows and resource tables.

Autism Cares Annual Gala, Spring Mill Manor, Ivyland. This parents’ evening out raises funds for Richboro’s Autism Cares Foundation with dinner, dancing and auctions.

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

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

April 27

Family Nature Night, Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington. Kids with autism and their families enjoy animal shows and learning stations that focus on the colors of nature.

Marketing/Circulation: Susan Braverman, ext. 100 marketing@metrokids.com Intern: Jada Davis

April 28

Walk for Autism Speaks, ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, Bethlehem.

ADVERTISING SALES 888-890-4668 Chrisy Holsopple

Discover SpecialKids, an annual resource directory for parents and caregivers of children with special needs in the Tri-State region.

COMING

SOON

Explore over 800 resource listing and view detailed information in three distinct surveys of 75 schools serving children with mild attention and learning differences, Autism and those requiring significant support.

Sign up for your FREE copy:

Metrokids.com/SpecialKids 4 MetroKids.com

ext. 111

Pam Kuperschmidt

ext. 120

Emily Ondik

ext. 105

Samantha Tuttle

ext. 106

ext. 100

Classified Sales

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

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

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

AWARD–WINNING MEMBER OF THE:

APRIL 2018

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KIDS’ CAMPS

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Mini Golf at the Riverfront Returning May 19

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page 24 • MetroKids.com/camps APRIL 2018

MetroKids.com 5

Your MK

A is for April!

Mussel up There is a mussel hatchery at Fairmount Water Works.

Mussels don’t create much of a ruckus, so you can be forgiven for not knowing about it, but more than 19,000 people have found the hatchery since it opened last year.

Spring is a pretty good time to head down to the Schuylkill River with the kids, take a stroll along its banks, watch the rowers glide by and learn how these bivalves can improve water quality.

It may not, however, be the best time to tell the kids how mom and dad also love mussels in a bucket washed down with some Belgium brews.

Skip the line at the Barnes If you’ve ever gone to the Barnes museum in Philadelphia on a Free First Sunday, you know that the wait to get tickets can be pretty long.

But now, if you bring the kids along, you can skip to the head of the line.

Last month, the Barnes Foundation and its sponsor, PECO, renamed the first Sunday of each month Free First Sunday Family Day and gave priority access to families with children under 18.

They also are adding lots of family-focused activities, all of which will be more pleasant for not having had to keep the kids happy while standing in line.

Kids see free Watching a live theater performance can be an inspiring experience for kids who are used to getting their entertainment on a screen. It can also be expensive.

The East Lynne Theater Company in West Cape May, NJ, however, makes it easier on families since anyone 12 or under is admitted free to their performances. Maybe that next rainy day at the shore, try a live show instead of a movie. The kids will see that special effects can include watching a real person just a few feet away trying to connect with an audience.

Clickety clack ding Where do kids learn to type? On their phones of course.

But if you’re nostalgic for the feel and sound of an old-style keyboard, WPM Typewriter Shop in West Mount Airy offers a class for kids to learn touch typing on a typewriter.

First, you’ll have to explain to your kids what a typewriter is, why it doesn’t have any emoji and, no, it won’t insert a gif. WPM owner Pamela Rogow believes using a typewriter can make for better writers because it forces you to focus; deleting and rewriting isn’t easy. We’re not sure about that.

But fingers flying and setting letters onto a printed page can be a satisfying experience, especially when you rip the finished version off the roller and either admire it or crumble it into a ball and toss it into the trash.

Visit us online at MetroKids.com/MKMemo for all the relevant links.

Have a suggestion for a cool thing to do? Email editor@metrokids.com.

6 MetroKids.com

Win It!

g n i r p S

FUN! The Kurio Smartwatch does more than tell time.

Kids can snap selfies or videos with filters on the front-facing camera, play single- or two-player games, text friends and family via Bluetooth messaging, use the activity tracker and play music.

(6+; $59.99)

No garden, no problem!

Back to the Roots offers a variety of indoor gardening kits, such as mushrooms, herbs, cherry tomatoes and chili peppers. The goods come ready to grow, straight from the can or jar, so no experience is needed. ($9.99 & up) American Plastic Toys’ My Very Own Ice Cream Cart playset is a supersweet way for little ones to use their imagination and boost social skills as they interact with “customers.” The colorful, rolling cart lets kids scoop ice cream and make sundaes, and it features a pretend freezer compartment, credit-card scanner, coins and all the culinary tools needed to run the shop.

(2+; $29.99) Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning April 1. Prizes marked with an asterisk (*) must be picked up at the MetroKids office in Center City. Other prizes will be mailed by the provider to the address given on the entry form.

APRIL 2018

Mom Matters

Self Care

Moms need to renew their health so they can be their best for their families and their careers.

I love a good TV show or a late-night movie, they were not helping me stay fit and healthy; in fact, they probably were doing the opposite. Think of those few things that you can put to the side for the time being, so you can better focus on the goal at hand,” she says. “No one said it would be easy; sacrifice will be necessary.”

Mothers need a plan to succeed. “That includes not only exercise, but proper nutrition and rest. I block out the days and times I am going to exercise and make sure I have coverage for the kids.

Whether that means a super early morning or a late night, if it is important to my goal, I make it work,” she adds.

Being fit to Lisa means both mind and body, so she began to not only read again but read things that challenge her and help her stay positive.

Physical fitness leads to mental fitness

Sharon, a mom of three in the Graduate Hospital area of Philadelphia, says she finds it challenging, as a mother who works outside the home, to renew her health. She has grown as a mother over the last eight years and works to put herself first in order to take care of her children and perform to a high standard in her professional life.

“My mental health is of critical importance to my physical health and ability to care for my children. I learned this during treatment for postpartum depression after my oldest was born,” says Sharon. “For me, it is effective and possible to take short Sharon and her kids, of the Graduate Hospital area of Philadelphia, are ready for a ride. periods of time to renew my own health. These may seem easy to accomplish or trivial, but they are neither.”

By Erin Jay Taking a 30-minute run or a 15-minute exercise session by Many mothers focus on the health of their children above herself are the ways in which Sharon takes charge of her health, their own, but how can they renew their own health? mainly her emotional health. Having a supportive husband has Marisa Piccarreto, owner and founder of My Fabulous Mama, been another critical factor. In addition, visiting family members a Center City baby-planning service, says new moms and mothand occasional babysitters enable her to have some time by herers with young children are stretched thin. “With the size of self to boost her energy and mental clarity. She has also found it families shrinking, families delaying the age which they begin possible to reinvigorate her health while in the company of three to have children, and individuals living in different communiyoung children. ties than which they were born, many families having children “Creating a peaceful environment in our house, where they today lack the extended family of support that has been the are at ease, gives us all a health-promoting environment; this is pillar of raising children for millennia,” says Piccarreto. (See rejuvenating for me. When I see them interact positively with her tips for healthy habits at right.) one another (playing or reading cooperatively, for example), this renews my energy,” adds Sharon.

“How do you find time to focus on you and your health? That is the milliondollar question, isn’t it?”

Make time for yourself

“As a mother living in the city with young children, how do you find time to focus on you and your health? That is the million-dollar question isn’t it?” asks Lisa, a Center City mom of three who has three jobs outside of the home.

She says just finding a minute for herself can be a challenge.

“But when you gain a total of 160 pounds during your three pregnancies, and you are used to being fit and healthy, it becomes non-negotiable. We all get the same 24 hours in a day – it is how we choose to use it,” Lisa says.

She realized that in order to find time, she had to cut out unnecessary things that kept her from achieving her goal. “While

APRIL 2018

Erin Jay is a Philadelphia freelance writer.

5

Healthy Habits for Moms

1. Accept offers for help. If a friend or family member wants to babysit, accept the help even if you don’t think the care will be as good as your own.

2. Let others be the best at something and have responsibilities (bath time, swaddling, playtime, etc).

3. In the early days with a new baby, say “no” to friends/family who add work to your schedule or who you will need to entertain when they visit.

4. Connect with new parents at a new-parents group, lactation-support group or parent/ child playgroup, music class or story time. The best classes will have other parents with children at the same stage.

5. Accept that you can’t be everything and do everything.

Source: Marisa Piccarreto, My Fabulous Mama

MetroKids.com 7

Music

By Jada Davis

Kathy O’Connell and “Kids Corner” are celebrating 30 years of entertaining and educating kids over the air on Philadelphia’s WXPN.

Kathy O’Connell never thought that “Kids Corner” would become a lifetime gig.

In 1987, O’Connell was working in New York as a co-host for the national call-in kids’ radio show “Kids America.” When it was canceled due to a lack of funding, she was offered what she calls the “golden ticket” by WXPN, a public radio station run by the University of Pennsylvania, to host a new kids’ show in Philadelphia.

She packed her things and moved, but didn’t know that she’d soon be calling this place home. “The Delaware Valley is a very special place,” she says. “I found a home. I found generations of listeners who continue to inspire and energize me.”

This year marks the 30th anniversary for O’Connell and “Kids Corner,” which is broadcast on 88.5 FM from 7-8pm Mondays through Thursdays. Focused on kids 5 to 13, it incorporates music, games, discussion and educational segments, like Pet Sounds, Kitchen Chemistry and Tech Talk, and brings in local experts to discuss a wide array of topics. However, there is one element that ties the whole thing together and that’s O’Connell, its eccentric host.

“I love talking on the radio,” she says. “I have pretty much been talking to entertain myself my whole life. Now I’ve added other people.” Her quirkiness coupled with her unique ability to engage her listeners has managed to draw in thousands of listeners every night and draw out even the shyest of children to call in and have their voices heard.

Photo by Joe del Tufo

A place to give shy kids confidence

8 MetroKids.com

“I was a bit socially awkward,” said Rebecca Lima of Willow Grove, PA, who was a frequent listener of the show in her youth. “I remember calling in to play flute and read poetry. I felt important, excited and, often, nervous. I always felt proud after, though.” Today at age 30, Lima, who grew up in Abington, PA, credits the show with helping her gain confidence. “It provided me with a strong sense of self at an early age. The show gives kids a chance to find greatness within themselves.”

Along with confidence, kids can gain other useful qualities by tuning in to “Kids Corner.” Mia Blitstein, a Wyncote, PA parent, former teacher in the Philadelphia School District and professional

APRIL 2018

Music developer of the Children’s Literacy Initiative, says that having a kids’ radio show is crucial to developing their learning abilities. “I used to ask my students’ families to listen in to boost their listening skills,” she said. “There are too many screens for kids to use. This is a great way for kids to be connected without the screen. Also, it gave them interesting topics to discuss in school the next day.”

Unafraid of tough subjects

The topics on the show include pets, books, science and other subjects that interest kids. But it also tackles topics of wider importance. “There have been news stories, both tragic and joyous, that we are able to address in the moment,” says O’Connell. “We have brought in experts to address issues like domestic violence and sexual abuse with the hope that it will spark information within families.”

Creating discourse with children about a difficult subject is not easy, but O’Connell has a knack for interacting with young people. “She’s able to talk to kids and not talk down to them,” says Eric Schuman, an on-air host and producer at WXPN. “You have to be really dedicated and a really special person to do that.”

Her industry colleagues agree, having given the show 23 broadcasting awards including a Peabody Award, broadcasting’s version of the Pulitzer.

Schuman has his own personal history with the show. “I was very young when I listened to ‘Kids Corner,’” he says. “It was my gateway into arts, science, books, and all sorts of things. It’s probably responsible for my interesting taste in music.”

“Kids Corner” at the birth of kindie

The music on “Kids Corner” is a huge part of the show. It’s fun, zany and enjoyable for every member of the family.

When “Kids Corner” began, O’Connell relied on artists from her own music collection. “Allan Sherman, Spike Jones and Abbott & Costello were long dead, but their work was familiar to new audiences

recognition of this genre has grown to include Grammy awards and international accolades,” says O’Connell. “Even while its finest are still selling CDs from the back of their car.” O’Connell describes the kindie scene as “a wonderful, vibrant, supportive community of kids’ independent musicians who share a passion for entertaining families with peak musical excellence.” She also admires kids’ ability to spot talent. “The beauty of a kids’ audience is they know authenticity when they see it, and the musicians in the kindie community are the real deal.”

A 30-year celebration

In celebration of kindie music, WXPN and “Kids Corner” created KindieComm, a biannual event for the kindie music clan.

“KindieComm brings together the kindie musical family to share experiences, songs, fun, and inspiration,” said O’Connell. This year’s event will be held April 2022. Additionally, “Kids Corner” is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a concert on April 22.

Trout Fishing in America and Lard Dog & The Band of Shy will be headlining.

“Kids Corner” has become so much more than a radio show.

Photo by Amanda Villier With O’Connell at its center, the show has developed a multi-generational community of listeners. “There through “Kids Corner,’” says O’Connell. are people my age, people in their In the ‘90s, artists emerged that thirties, who enjoyed the show when they changed everything. “Artists like Trout were young and now their kids listen to Fishing in America and Dan Zanes creit,” says Schuman. “The show gets passed ated a new approach to music the whole down from generation to generation and family can enjoy. Their own work has there’s something amazing about that.” become a template for artists who have come after them,” O’Connell notes.

Jada Davis is a MetroKids intern from Temple “Kids Corner” is often credited with University. helping to revolutionize this genre of See Kathy’s favorite kindie kids’ independent music, better known albums. as kindie music. “In the last few years, Go to Metrokids.com/Music

Anniversary Concert, Kindie Conference On April 20-22, WXPN and “Kids Corner” will host KindieComm, its biannual event in celebration of kids’ independent music. Tickets are $90, $75 if purchased before April 2.

Trout Fishing in America

APRIL 2018

For its 30th anniversary, “Kids Corner” will also host a concert in conjunction with KindieComm on Sunday, April 22 at 10:15am. There will be musical performances by Trout Fishing in America, Lard Dog & The Band of Shy, Chibi Kodama and Billy Kelly. Tickets are $18 each; 2 for $30 or $15 if you are also attending KindieComm. For more information on KindieComm, visit Kindiecomm.org.

MetroKids.com 9

Health

Caffeine

Kids Teens turn to coffee, soda and energy drinks for a boost, but some can pack a caffeine wallop

By Suzanne Koup-Larsen Caffeinated beverages are a cheap and easy way for teens to get through busy days where they get up too early and go to bed too late.

While teenagers need eight and a half to nine hours of sleep a night, some are getting as little as five, says Dr. Michelle Karten, pediatrician at Nemours duPont Pediatrics in Villanova, PA. So it may not be surprising that a 2014 study found that 73 percent of children (ages 2-22) drink caffeine on any given day. With their busy schedules, students today get worn down and look for ways to keep going, says Jared Scherz, PhD, a clinical psychologist in Mt Laurel, NJ, and “caffeine is an available and legal form of stimulation.”

High caffeine levels in some drinks

Soda is a well-known source of caffeine, but as soda consumption among children has declined, it has been replaced by coffee and energy drinks, according to the 2014 study, Trends in Caffeine Intake Among US Children and Adolescents.

Energy drinks, such as Red Bull, Monster and 5-Hour Energy, can have between 200 and 80mg of caffeine per container. Coffee-shop coffees, however, can have even more. While a 12oz cup of coffee made at home might have 60 to 80mg, a 20oz Starbucks or Dunkin

10 MetroKids.com

Donuts coffee can have 400 or more milligrams of caffeine and as much as 300mg in a 16oz version, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest.

Caffeine’s presence in other products might be harder to spot since the FDA doesn’t require caffeine content on nutrition labels, says Emma Donnelly, pediatric registered dietitian at Family Food in Bala Cynwyd, PA. A coffee-flavored yogurt or ice cream can have as much as 70mg of caffeine per serving, says Donnelly.

Caffeine is a drug

Caffeine is a stimulant that creates a false sense of alertness even when the body is still sleep deprived or not well rested, says Scherz. “It’s not physiologically addictive,” says Dr. Eileen Everly, a Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center in West Philadelphia, but it may create dependence. While it’s not addictive in the same way as a controlled substance, you can become dependent on the effects of caffeine in a behavioral way, explains Everly.

“Caffeine affects the neurological system and cardiovascular systems in developing children,” says Donnelly.

Those effects include: • Increased heartbeat • Increased blood pressure

How much caffeine is in your drink?

Drink

Milligrams of Caffeine

Starbucks Blonde Roast, 20oz ............. 475 5-hour Energy, 2oz ............................... 200 Monster Energy, 16oz .......................... 160 Starbucks Chai Latte, 16oz..................... 95 Mountain Dew, 20oz .............................. 91 Honest Tea Organic Lemon Tea, 17oz.... 90 Red Bull, 8oz........................................... 80 Folgers House Blend, 12oz................60-80 Pepsi, 20oz.............................................. 63 Coke, 20oz ..........................................56-57 Black tea, 8oz ......................................... 47 Green tea, 8oz ........................................ 29 Arizona Iced Tea, green, 16oz ................ 15 Hershey’s Chocolate Lowfat Milk, 12oz... 2 Sprite, 12oz............................................... 0 Source: Center for Science in the Public Interest • Feelings of anxiousness • Trouble sleeping These effects usually aren’t long lasting, but in some cases, kids may need to be weaned from caffeine to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Consuming caffeine does not cause anxiety disorders or ADHD, says Everly.

But if you already have one of those conditions, caffeine augments the symptoms of jitteriness and anxiousness.

APRIL 2018

Health

Natural ways to get energy 1. Do 20 jumping jacks or jog in place 2. Drink a glass of water to counteract dehydration 3. Consume natural sugars, such as fruits Many of these caffeinated drinks are unhealthy for other reasons too, says Donnelly, because they have higher sugar content and lack essential nutrients, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.

When is caffeine okay for kids?

“A smaller amount of caffeine has a much bigger effect on a small body than it does on anyone after puberty,” says Everly.

“Kids are much more sensitive to the effects because they’re getting an adult dose.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says kids younger than 12 shouldn’t have any caffeine, and kids over 12 should have no more than 100mg per day, Donnelly advises. The AAP says that energy drinks have no place in the diets of children or adolescents.

The experts in orthopaedic care for kids

Energy drinks, alcohol a risky mix

It has become popular among young adults to mix Red Bull energy drinks with liquor such as vodka. While it combines a depressant and a stimulant, much like rum and Coke, energy drinks have a far higher concentration of caffeine in a small amount of liquid. “It’s problematic in a number of ways,” says Scherz.

“In a way it short circuits the brain,” he says, because the brain is getting confusing messages.

“It’s like alcohol on steroids,” agrees Everly. This drink combo masks the ill effects of the alcohol and delays the feeling of drunkenness, she says. “You don’t realize you’re as drunk as you are,” which makes it more likely that you will drink too much.

Suzanne Koup-Larsen is a MetroKids contributing writer.

Some supermarket chains in the United Kingdom have decided to no longer sell energy drinks to anyone under 16. Go to metrokids.com/caffeine to learn more.

Do you have a child in the

3rd through 8th grade?

Your family may qualify for a paid research study!

We’re interested in studying the way personality, behavior and life experiences influence how the teenage brain develops over time.

If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact the Temple Adolescent Development Study at

(215) 204-3444 or visit us online at

sites.temple.edu/ olinolab/current-studies APRIL 2018

215-430-4000

www.shrinersphilly.org We’re social!

@shrinersphilly MetroKids.com 11

Education

A GLOBAL MINDSET Educational strategies with origins around the world

By Ann L. Rappoport, PhD Education in the United States often attracts worldwide attention but it is also improved and enhanced by adapting international approaches to schools and learning. Here are four effective and popular strategies with origins elsewhere that are being implemented in local schools.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

International Baccalaureate programs, developed in the 1960s, emphasize rigorous inquiry and project-based learning that transcend the classroom for students aged 3-19. “They connect the real world and the subject,” notes Ralph Lelii, IB program director and teacher at The George School in Newtown, PA. Approximately 1,700 schools in the US offer IB programs, though not necessarily an IB high school diploma. Lelii explains that the IB diploma is accepted across the world because it meets internationally recognized standards and assessments that other high school programs do not.

“There are no multiple choice questions in IB,” he says.

Instead, IB measures student progress through the learners’ portfolios, papers, exams and collections of many assessments over a period of time. These assessments are reviewed by multiple outside educators – often overseas – to ensure standards and objectivity.

Design of original experiments isn’t something reserved for science fairs. IB students in biology, for instance, are required to create, run and explain original experiments and in calculus students are expected to create, solve and discuss 10 special problems beyond the scope of their course.

IB programs are demanding while encouraging flexible thinking and fresh approaches to problem solving. Their international scope has a unifying and connective benefit across cultures as well.

Center was a founding member of the Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools in the US. Outdoor Classrooms typically combine structured time with child-driven free play. Students make berries and leaves into ink; they journal and draw outdoors, sometimes in the snow. They skate on ponds. When sticks are employed in play – which is inevitable – students learn safer ways to wield them and alternative uses for them, from picture frames to brooms. “Everything in nature is multi-purpose,” emphasizes Eaddy.

“We try to say ‘yes’ as much as possible,” she continues. So when students climb trees, build forts or engage in other forms of what some adults consider “risky play,” degreed and licensed educators, who are also trained in natural education, facilitate safe practices to enable children to explore to their own limits.

This helps kids build technique, competence and confidence.

Nature classrooms support social and emotional growth as well, says Schuylkill Center Director of Early Childhood Education Sandi Vincenti, because different kinds of learners thrive in this community of students. Finally, when these students move to a new educational environment, the transition is smoother because they have discovered how to learn, negotiate challenging situations, and take responsibility for their own learning.

Outdoor Classrooms, Forest Schools

“There is no bad weather, just bad clothing,” explains Kristina Eaddy, lead teacher in the Outdoor Classroom preschool program at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education in Northwest Philadelphia.

Layers of appropriate gear and plenty of snacks are how youngsters prepare for a full day’s curriculum in nature, even during a chilly winter.

Forest Schools are popular in Germany and the Schuylkill

12 MetroKids.com

Outdoor Classroom program at Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education.

APRIL 2018

Education

Come hear about our new

Singapore Math

Teachers at the independent St. Anne’s Episcopal School in Middletown, DE are excited that a different approach to teaching math has transformed first graders from saying, “I can’t do math” to saying, “I tried this and it worked.” They now beg for additional math time, both in and outside of school.

Singapore Math is credited with keeping Singapore students ranked among the best in complex problem-solving and mathematical thinking. The approach is rooted in child development, moving from the concrete, to the pictorial and the abstract with each topic, according to first-grade teacher Tara Liguori.

Instead of memorizing which formula to apply to get the right answer, Singapore Math helps students develop a deeper understanding – a number sense – so they can think about mathematical problems and explain how to work them, says another first grade teacher, Melissa Meier.

Practice, not drills, helps students solidify their basic math facts; meanwhile, class members collaborate to address daily “anchor problems.”

This approach rejects rote steps in favor of learning the meaning behind them, says Meier. Students learn why, not just how. The result is students who think flexibly on their feet and generate multiple ideas to solve complex problems.

VARIABLE TUITION

PROGRAM

OPEN HOUSE WEDNESDAY APRIL 25, 2018•9 AM - 11 AM

GREENE STREET FRIENDS SCHOOL

International Exchange Programs

Experiencing a foreign country directly is not the same as talking about a foreign country and that’s why Greene Street Friends School’s Costa Rica Exchange Program for seventh and eighth graders is powerful, says Ryan Kimmet, associate head of the Philadelphia-based Quaker school.

He believes this special connection between US students and their peers in another culture is “life changing for our kids.”

Some students remain in touch with their Costa Rican friends into adulthood, he says.

From PreK, Greene Street Friends students start learning Spanish but the exchange also integrates history, social studies, science and other curricular and philosophical objectives.

In a period of just less than two weeks, seventh-grade students visit the homes and schools of their Costa Rican pen pals; tour bat caves, cloud forests and coffee plantations; engage in indigenous cooking and decorative arts, and provide service.

During eighth grade, Costa Rican hosts visit Greene Street Friends in Philadelphia.

When young people leave their home or country for the first time, they benefit from understanding diversity and resources in a new way, says Kimmet. Their eyes open and their worlds expand as they couldn’t have imagined otherwise. Students document their growth through journaling and presentations.

These four educational strategies are among the many global approaches to learning that inspire curious students, engaged parents and bold teachers in our region.

Ann L. Rappoport, PhD, is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

open house dates:

W

greenestreetfriends.org lclancy@greenestreetfriends.org 215.438.7005

Thursday, APRIL 12 8:45am

Supporting students with Autism and other special needs.

Friends….fun….field trips!

Autism Center for Excellence

162 Egypt Road, Jeffersonville, Pa. 19403 www.pathwayschool.org • 610-277-0660 APRIL 2018

MetroKids.com 13

Parenting

Tips for

Talking to Your Children About DISABILITIES

By Amy Kelly Conversations about people with disabilities have been at an all-time high thanks to movies and TV shows that feature characters with a variety of differences and special needs, including Finding Dory, Speechless and Atypical.

There have also been heart-warming headlines of communities coming together to support those with autism. These stories have helped reduce the painful stigma people with emotional, behavioral or cognitive differences face every day.

Professional and clinical experts encourage parents to take advantage of this heightened awareness to initiate conversations with their children to develop an understanding of, and compassion for, children and adults with disabilities.

Below are some tips to help parents kick off these conversations.

1. Educate yourself first: There are

many kinds of disorders and disabilities and not all are visible. If you learn the basics and understand them, talking to

14 MetroKids.com

your child will be much easier. Plus, it sets a great example for your children to model.

2. Use casual opportunities to start conversations: If possible, try to relate

the individual with the disability to your child. For example: “Look at that! Johnny likes trains just like you do!” Ask general questions to discover what your child knows and thinks about disabilities; it’s an easy way to initiate a conversation.

For instance: “What did you think of that part (XYZ) in the movie?” or “The character (name) was a pretty cool part of the show. He/she has XYZ disability or is in a wheelchair. Do you know anyone like (name of character)? What do you think about that?”

be enough. “His/her brain works a little differently than yours, honey. That’s OK – we’re all different and special in our own way,” or “The wheelchair David is sitting in helps him get around, just like you use your legs to walk and run.” Of course, older children can understand more detailed conversations, so you may want to research the topic together so you can both learn more.

4. Reassure your child: Let him

know that people with special needs and disabilities are human beings, just like everyone else. They feel the same feelings, have the same basic needs and didn’t choose to be different. Disabilities aren’t contagious or something that can be passed from one person to another.

5. Remind your child about treating others with respect: Talk to your

child about the Golden Rule: “Treat others the same way you want to be treated.” It’s also critical to understand that an individual is not defined by his or her disability. For instance, use person-first language, such as: “Annie has autism” instead of “Annie is autistic.”

6. Take it slow: Allow your child to take some time to think about your conversation and follow-up later. To kick off this discussion say, “Remember when we were talking about disabilities? I was wondering if you had any thoughts or questions, now that you’ve had time to think about it.”

Use stories and examples to promote understanding and awareness of disabilities with your children. It is a vital way to reduce stigma and make our communities more welcoming places for all.

Amy Kelly is the director of family/community services for Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

3. Provide accurate but digestible information: Depending on the age of your child, you will want to deliver information in an age-appropriate and understandable way. If your child is younger, a simple sentence or two may

APRIL 2018

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MetroKids.com 15

A Managing Mealtime SpecialKids

How to Get Children with Autism Who Have Eating Problems Back on a Healthy Diet

By Debra Wallace Jackson Cointot was more than a finicky eater when he was 3 years old. His extremely limited diet of pizza, cheese curls and Cheerios led his desperate parents to search for help and nutritional guidance.

Before being diagnosed with autism at age two-and-a-half, Jackson was eating baby food and a small variety of other foods.

Gradually, his strong gag reflex and an aversion to eating with a spoon resulted in him choosing only carbs and snack foods – a common problem for children on the autism spectrum, as well as some typical children.

An estimated 25 percent of typical children develop feeding or eating problems, but among children with autism it is as high as 80 percent, according to the Indiana University Resource Center for Autism in Bloomington.

Taste, texture, smell or color

Allison Cointot, 36, Jackson’s Ridley Park, PA mom, and her husband, Keith, looked into intensive food-therapy programs and force-feeding options.

Instead, they decided to have Jackson work with behavior analyst Jennifer King, the owner of Teaching Together, who says that the majority of children she works with who have autism are extremely picky eaters, which often translates to problems with taste, texture, smell or color.

The family’s goal for Jackson was to add more nutritional food choices, fruit,

vegetables and textures – basically anything other than carbs.

“I use a softer and gentler approach than many other behavioral programs,” says King.

King takes foods that the child used to eat and encourages him to begin with touching, smelling and licking the food and then take a bite – all of this is done with patience, positive reinforcement and family cooperation.

“I make feeding therapy fun.

The long-term goal is for the child to eat fruits and vegetables,” King explains, “but the short-term goal is for the child to learn to trust me.”

their goals. Almost all of them have been able to add all five food groups back into their diet.”

So, how did King’s therapy and the family’s follow-through change the life of Jackson, now a 4-year-old preschooler?

“My son now eats every texture and items from every food group,” says Allison. “Our family can go to a restaurant and can find items for Jackson to eat. He is getting vitamins and nutrients. He was starting to gain weight by eating all those carbs and now his belly is thinning out.

Mealtime is no longer a battle and he can make his own choices.”

Gateway foods

King may take a picky eater’s love for French fries as a gateway for her to try sweet potato fries and, eventually, carrot and red pepper sticks.

“Many children will try crunchy foods as opposed to squishy foods, like soft veggies. After we’ve been working for a while, children will go along with me and try Nutella on a sandwich, with or without peanut butter, and after a year or two they may have graduated to roasted broccoli.”

She says often parents want the child to eat the entire portion, while King sees one bite as a victory.

Her advice: “I would say to go slow, go back to the foods like apple sauce the child used to eat. I know that parents get frustrated, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Most of the children I have worked with have been successful in meeting

Her advice for parents of children with autism who are picky eaters? “Consistency pays off,” explains Allison. “Find the program for your child and your family that is the best fit.”

Food issues a common problem

Developmental pediatrician Caroline Eggerding, who has been diagnosing and treating children with autism for 37 years, is well versed in family eating and feeding concerns.

“In my experience, a child who has a diagnosis with autism and eats well is the exception,” says Eggerding, the division head of pediatric neurology and development at Cooper Children’s Regional Hospital in Camden, NJ. “The majority of the toddlers and children on the autism spectrum have fairly intense food likes and dislikes, and extremely limited diets. Rarely do parents bring in a child who has no eating or feeding rules,” she says, “and like all early

Continued on p. 32 16 MetroKids.com

APRIL 2018

Where children learn to play n ABA Therapy and play to learn n Speech/OT

Autism Community Invited To Grand Opening of Special Playground

Where children learn to play and play to learn

Come to the grand opening of Potential’s new autism-friendly and therapeutic playground, at 170 Pheasant Run, Newtown, PA, on Saturday, April 21, 2018 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Children will be able to use the playground and snacks and beverages will be available.

Kristine Quinby, Founder, President and CEO of Potential, said “This three year project reflects our belief that learning to play (with others) and playing to learn (social interaction) has real benefits to children with autism. We wanted to make this securely-fenced playground available to the community, free of charge, during evenings and weekends, when it is not in use by our clients. Simple lesson plans will be available at the grand opening and on our web site for parents to use with their children. Our vision is to create a world where every person with autism can lead a successful life of value.”

Funding for the project was secured through private donations and grants from Foundations Community Partnership, The Provident Bank Foundation and the Bucks County Commissioners.

Potential, a non-profit organization, was founded in 2006 by Kristine Quinby and helps children and adults with autism reach their full educational, social and emotional potential. For more information, visit https://tinyurl. com/register2play, or call 215.579.0670

One-to-one attention nn ABA Therapy nn Speech/OT Toilet training

Where children learn to play n One-to-one attention Parents’ Seminars and play to learn nn Speech/OT n Toilet training n ABA Therapy

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Autism-friendlyand and therapeutic therapeutic playground Autism-friendly playground Autism-friendly and therapeutic playground Grand openingto to community community 4.21.18 Grand opening Grand opening to community 4.21.184.21.18 More information

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For ages 6-16.

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APRIL 2018

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Camphill Special School’s mission is to create wholeness for children and youth with developmental disabilities through education, extended family living, and therapy so that they may be better understood, they may more fully unfold their potential, and they may meaningfully participate in life. To learn more visit our website at camphillspecialschool.org.

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK.

1784 Fairview Road, Glenmoore, PA 19343 610.469.9236 camphillspecialschool.org

MetroKids.com 17

2018-2019 AUTISM SCHOOL SURVEY

Below is a survey of key information about local autism-support schools to help families identify the best fit for their children regardless of where they are on the autism spectrum, including those with co-existing emotional, behavioral or physical needs.

Abbreviations at the end of each school’s description capture the range of special needs the school serves. See the key to identify the abbreviations and icons.

Once you identify schools of interest, arrange a visit to each facility. You can find contact information, addresses and more about each school’s programs at MetroKids.com/SpecialKids.

Many schools charge tuition directly to the referring school district under the Free and Appropriate Public Education law, indicated as (FAPE) on the survey.

FAO indicates the school offers financial aid.

OTHER SERVICES

SUPPORT SERVICES

= Residential = Extended day = Summer program = Transportation

= Medical staff/nursing = Counseling = Art therapy = Music therapy = Animal/dog therapy OT = Occupational therapy PT = Physical therapy ST = Speech therapy School

Enrollment

Grades/ Ages

Tuition

Camphill Special School Glenmoore camphillspecialschool.org

110

Ages 4-21

FAPE FAO

Davidson School, Media Elwyn.org/program/ approved_private_school

400

KEY

SPECIAL NEEDS SERVED

LEARNING STRATEGIES & VOCATIONAL ABBREVIATIONS ABA = Applied Behavior Analysis, behavior improvement through interventions based on learning theory PBIS = Positive Behavioral Intervention & Supports, evidence-based interventions to enhance learning and behavior Sanctuary model = Trauma-informed approach to creating change SPA = Safe & Positive Approaches, crisis-prevention program T2C = Transition to college TEACCH model = job coach-supported employment program Wilson Reading = Remedial research-based reading & writing program Staff/student ratio

ASP AUT COM DD EMO HI LD NI PDD VI

Asperger syndrome Autism Communication/social disorder Developmental disability Emotional/behavioral disorder Hearing impairment/deaf Learning disability/ADHD Neurological impairment Pervasive development disorder Visual impairment/blind

Tech

Support Services

Learning strategies

Vocational opportunities

Extracurriculars

iPads, laptops, Smart Boards

Hippotherapy OT,PT,ST

Waldorf

Life Skills

Art

Evidencebased approaches

School to work

Art, music, library, physical education

Other services

Boarding and day programs for children with ASP,AUT,DD,PDD

Ages 3-21

FAPE

2:8

OT PT, ST

Multidisciplinary ed for those with ASDs, physical, mental & behavioral challenges, communication difficulties and medically fragile conditions. ASP, AUT, DD, EMO, HI, NI, PDD, VI

Devereux CARES Downington Devereuxcares.org

55

Ages 5-21

FAPE

4:5

PECS

OT, ST

ABA, SPA

Career planning, vocational training

PBIS, Sanctuary SPA

Career planning, prevocational training

The Center for Autism Research and Educational serves students with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. AUT

Devereux PA - Brandywine Glenmoore Devereux.org

110

Devereux PA - CIDDS West Chester Devereux.org

175

Ages 7-18

FAPE

1:1:12

Smart Boards, AlphaSmarts

OT, ST

Field trips, service learning, Special Olympics Field trips

Serves boys with a wide array of mental health, emotional & behavioral disorders, PDD and Tourette Syndrome with a trauma-informed care model known as Sanctuary. AUT, EMO, LD, PDD

Grades 1-12

FAPE

1:3

Augmentative devices, iPads, PECs

PBIS OT, PT,ST

Life skills, vocational training

Serves students with intellectual/developmental disabilities, autism and behavioral disorders. AUT, NI

Devereux PA - Day School, Malvern Devereux.org

50

Grades 1-12

FAPE

1:1:12

Computers/ computer lab Smart Boards

PBIS, Direct Instruction

Field trips, service learning, Special Olympics

Career planning, prevocational training

Field trips

Job readiness

Art, physical education

ABA, PBIS, SPA

Career placement, life skills, vocational training

Art, library, music

OT, PT, ST

TEACCH model, ABA, PBIS

Vocational training

Sports

OT, PT, ST

ABA, PBIS,SPA

Career placement, college prep, life skills, vocational training

Art, library, music, sports, field trips

OT,ST

Serves students with a wide array of mental health, emotional & behavioral disorders, PDD, and Asperger syndrome. ASP, AUT, EMO, LD, PDD

Green Tree School & Services, Phila. 19138 Gts-s.org

120

Ages 5-21

Individualized tech

FAPE

OT, ST,

Direct instruction

School/licensed psychiatric clinic serves those with ASDs, co-occurring psychiatric or intellectual disabilities. ASP, AUT, EMO, LD, NI, PDD

Springtime School Newtown Springtimeschool.org

6

Timothy School, The Berwyn Timothyschool.com

69

Grades 1-12 (to age 21)

FAPE, Private pay

1:1

Individualized tech

Behavior Analyst, OT, PT, ST

Serves students on the autism spectrum using an individualized, research-based, functional approach. ASP, AUT, PDD

Ages 5-21

FAPE

1:2

Individualized, specialized instruction for children diagonosed with autism or PDD. AUT, PDD

Vanguard School, The Malvern Vanguardschool-pa.org

265

Ages 4-21

FAPE

1:3

1:1 computers, Smart Boards, wireless campus Augmentative Devices, Computers, iPads, SmartBoards

Serves students with ASD, neurological impairment and related social-emotional difficulties via comprehensive, individualized special education and clinical services. AUT, COM, LD, EMO, PDD

18 MetroKids.com

APRIL 2018

AUTISM ASSESSMENT SERVICES One of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare organizations AUTISM ASSESSMENT SERVICES AUTISM ASSESSMENT SERVICES is now scheduling autism assessment appointments within four weeks of your call.

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One of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare isorganizations optimum outcomes your child. scheduling autism assessment appointments withinfor four weeks of your call. No need to delay a No need to delay a confirmed diagnosis so that swift, early intervention can provide

is nowconfirmed scheduling autism appointments within outcomes four weeks ofchild. your call. diagnosis so thatassessment swift, early intervention can provide for your optimum outcomes for your child.optimum Services include: No need to delayServices a confirmed diagnosis so that swift, early intervention can provide include: • Evaluation Services include:completed by licensed psychologists. To establish optimum outcomes for yourpsychologists. child.

• Evaluation completed by licensed establish may be diagnostic clarity, some assessments in theToevaluation Evaluation completed by licensed psychologists.

To establishmay diagnostic diagnostic clarity, some assessments in the evaluation be or clarity, •completed by a psychiatrist, BCBA, speech therapist, special some assessments in the evaluation may speech be completed by a or psychiatrist, BCBA, completed by a psychiatrist, BCBA, therapist, special Services include: education consultant. speech therapist, or special education consultant. education consultant.

• Evaluation completed by licensed Toa establish ••Autism Diagnosis Observation Schedule 2 (ADOS-2) and Autism Diagnosis Observation Schedule 2 (ADOS-2) and a series • Autism Diagnosis Observation Schedule 2 psychologists.

(ADOS-2) and a of individualized assessments are used series of individualized assessments are used series of individualized assessments are used diagnostic clarity, some assessments in the evaluation may be Same dayday preliminary feedback • Same preliminary feedback • completed a psychiatrist, • Same dayby preliminary feedbackBCBA, speech therapist, or special Detailed evaluation report, diagnosis and recommendations • Detailed evaluation report, diagnosis and recommendations • education consultant.

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(267) 788-6892 •• www.devereux.org/autism www.devereux.org/autism (267) 788-6892 To schedule an appointment: Dr.Downingtown, Carol Anne McNellis, Clinical Director: • Same day preliminary feedback Boot Road, PAPA 19335 600600 Boot Road, Downingtown, 19335 (267) 788-6892 • www.devereux.org/autism • 600 Detailed evaluation report, diagnosis Boot Road, Downingtown, PA 19335 and recommendations

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To schedule an appointment: Dr. Carol Anne McNellis, Clinical Director: (267) 788-6892 • www.devereux.org/autism 600 Boot Road, Downingtown, PA 19335

Preschool early intervention for eligible children between 3 and 5 years of age.

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Summer Matters offers educational, recreational and vocational programming for young people, 5–24 years of age, with learning challenges and special needs. Summer Matters programs are of varying formats and lengths and build on participants’ interests to help them succeed, learn and grow.

The Vanguard School is an Approved Private School for students, 4–21 years of age, with exceptionalities including autism, speech-language disorders, emotional disturbance and/or other health impairment (OHI). The School provides comprehensive special education and related clinical services with a unique focus on the individual student and his or her readiness for life.

Customized Workforce Solutions provides employment-related services to adults with disabilities. Participants define their goals, understand their skills and discover their vocational interests and work preferences. CWS develops and maintains mutually beneficial employment relationships between employees and employers.

Valley Forge Educational Services prepares children and adults with special needs to realize their potential as contributing members of the community. info@vfes.net 1777 N. Valley Road, Malvern, PA VFES.net n610.296.6725

MetroKids.com 19

Camp

DOWN AND DIRTY Learn about science and nature in the great outdoors

By Carol Anne Pagliotti

Nature camps are a good way to get kids away from their screens and off of the sidewalk so that they can explore the great outdoors.

Kids who go to outdoor camps gain some of the traditional wisdom their parents and grandparents learned about plants, birds and insects, including practical lessons such as how to identify poison ivy. Summer days spent in nature also connect kids to the environment and that connection can build empathy and an appreciation for the world around them.

Here in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, kids are close to natural areas where they can take part in a wide variety of nature and environmental camps.

‘Let your kids get messy and dirty’

Images Top: Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education Middle: Whale Camp & Fundy Marine Science Institute Bottom: Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge

20 MetroKids.com

“We’ve seen a lot of research over the last decade that suggests kids aren’t spending enough time outside,” says Courtney McKinley, camp coordinator for the Delaware Nature Society. “The amount of screen time kids have is going up and the amount of time they have outside to play is going down.”

While a kid sitting by a screen in the living room may make parents feel safe because they know where their child is, there are benefits to pushing him out the door.

“Let your kids get messy and dirty,” says Cathy Perrotto, camp coordinator for the Delaware Museum of Natural History.

“Just being outside is such a great thing for children. It allows them to explore without instructions. They can go pick up sticks and try to build something out of it.

“It’s a lot of free activity for them. It not only challenges them mentally, but physically. We hit the gamut of mental, physical and social stimulation.”

Even walking over uneven ground, like kids would do in the woods, as opposed to being on a playground with a paved surface, is really good for their gross motor development, McKinley says.

“Sometimes kids benefit the most from activities where they can just be free to roam and explore, but at camp they get to do it with an adult who is watching out for them,” says Keara R. Giannoti, executive director and director of Eco Studies at Camp Creek Run in Marlton, NJ.

CAMP

Learn lessons from nature

A summer at nature camp will help a child learn how to identify plants and animals, but the lessons go beyond ecosystems.

“The most important piece we focus on is getting kids, especially young children, comfortable with the practices of science,” says Erin McCool, director of education at Riverbend Environmental Education Center in Gladwyne, PA. “Our focus is guiding children through inquiry-based learning on how to explore nature. Kids learn how to talk and think like a scientist.”

Even kids who do not go on to be biologists and naturalists might develop an appreciation for protecting the world around them.

“We’re showing them how to take care of the forest and the soil and prevent pollution and problems in their neighborhood and watershed,” says Aaliyah Ross, director of education at Philadelphia’s Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education. “It has to do with connecting with nature and learning how to be a good environmental steward.”

Explore for the fun of it

Separate from the science and environmental awareness, one of the benefits of an outdoor camp experience is simply the chance to make a discovery.

“Kids experience and discover a lot because we want them to do things on their own; we don’t necessarily want to take them outside and lecture,” says Erin Kiefer, camp director at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in Medford, NJ. “We find that they really enjoy what they are doing a lot more when they are discovering it themselves.”

McKinley says the Delaware Nature Society sees a key benefit as simply the “deep experience in just being in nature.”

Parents can encourage a positive experience if they focus on finding an outdoor camp that is suited to their child, says Cailin Burmaster, program director of Whale Camp & Fundy Marine Science Institute in New Brunswick, Canada.

“This improves the likelihood that your camper will be surrounded by like-minded peers with common interests, which makes it much easier to make friends, have fun and be themselves,” she says.

Carol Anne Pagliotti is a freelance writer.

APRIL 2018

EXPERIENCE MARINE SCIENCE

The

WHALE CAMP

at the

Fundy Marine Science Institute Face-to-face with whales, porpoises, puffins and lots of marine life

$40,000 College Scholarships Available HANDS-ON MARINE SCIENCE, OCEANOGRAPHY & WHALE RESEARCH ON GRAND MANAN ISLAND BETWEEN MAINE AND NOVA SCOTIA

Free Brochure & Info:

www.whalecamp.com

Ask About: STEM Projects • College Accredited Courses • Family Programs Mention Keycode WC★MK for $50/week Discount

Philly's, South Jersey's, and the Shore's

#1 Choice for Summer Camp Q,

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

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

Experience Everything

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

215.844.3460 ext. 364 APRIL 2018

Open House- April 21 and May 19

• Horseback Riding • Swim Lessons • Over 20 Sports including Golf and Archery • Dual Zip Lines& i� Rope Courses � • Dance& Performing Arts 1 • Crafts and Woodworking · School of Rock I fl Extended Care A Stl.Mmet fun. ·Teen.travel program ft/Yla]J•� · A/C Buildings N ew Fam1·1y and s·b1· I 1ng o·ISCOUnts .

A/CTransportation

Call today 856-262-3900 For registration rates and fees

tallpinesdaycamp.com

IJ -� fl

email: fun@tallpinesdaycamp.com

1349 Sykesville Road, Williamstown, NJ 08094 Lunch and snack provided. Nut-free facility.

Delaware Valley's Premier Day Camp

Accredited by the American Camp Association. State Certified.

CAMP

MetroKids.com 21

Camp

GIDDYAP The Thrill and Benefits of Horseback Riding Camp

By Terri Akman As a kid, Mallory Jaskolka was very bright, but she had some learning issues that led to emotional anxiety. Her mom, Maggie, knowing that Mallory loved animals, enrolled her in Ashford Farm horseback riding camp in Miquon, PA when she was 7.

“Everything about it just fit her,” says Maggie, from Elkins Park, PA, who watched her daughter blossom around

horses. “Everything you do is part of a team, either you and your horse or you and the partner you’re sharing that horse with. It allows you to feel a sense of success. It’s really empowering.”

Mallory spent the next seven summers at Ashford Farm learning to ride and care for horses. She then advanced to their residential horseback riding camp in Virginia. Now 24, Mallory is pursuing equine-facilitated therapy as a career.

The benefits of horseback riding

Mallory Jaskolka has been horseback riding since she was 7.

22 MetroKids.com

Horseback riding offers riders physical activity while developing balance, coordination as well as mental and emotional benefits. It’s also an activity people can enjoy throughout their lives.

“It teaches them responsibility for another living thing,” says Caroline Canavan, owner of Ashford Farm, which offers a camp for boys and girls aged 7 to 14 who have a range of horseback-riding ability.

“Kids love animals and have a passion for riding, so it’s an outlet away from school, their telephones and their parents.

“Campers learn how to do a lot of basic flat work (walking, trotting) on the horse and they also learn how to jump,” Canav-

CAMP

an says. “The more advanced children get to take lessons out of the ring. They like to do cross-country jumping.”

Horseback riding is a unique sport where you become one with the animal, says Eleanor Robinson, owner and riding instructor at Pembrook Farm in Woodbury, NJ. “You have to think about what the horse or pony is thinking about, what it is feeling and its needs. It also gives the kids a lot of confidence when they work with the animal and love the animal. That connection is immeasurable.”

Hippotherapy at Quest Therapeutic Services

“Unlike sports and school where kids are competing against other peers, in horseback riding there’s no competition,” says Sue Campbell, owner of Sunset

APRIL 2018

Camp

Choose a camp carefully

As with any camp, a personal visit will allow you and your child to see the facilities and speak with the staff.

“Not all camps are created equal, so parents should really check the camps out,” says Canavan. “Children can get hurt so they have to have good instruction.” Horseback riding is not for everybody, she cautions, so gauge your child’s interest before committing to a camp.

While costs differ depending on the camp, campers will need proper clothing, including a helmet and riding boots or sturdy-heeled shoes. Summer camp at Ashford Farm cost from $1,300 for two weeks to $4,960 for eight weeks, while Pembrook Farm costs $250 per week.

Half-day camp at Sunset Stable costs $200 per week and $300 per week for full day.

Terri Akman is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

APRIL 2018

Hippotherapy and therapeutic riding Literally meaning “treatment with the help of the horse” from the Greek word “hippos,” hippotherapy is how physical, occupational and speech therapists use the movement of the horse as part of their intervention to help achieve their objectives.

“The horse’s movement has a therapeutic effect on the child because it imparts a precise repetitive pattern of movement that’s very similar to a person’s pelvis during normal walking,” says Lisa Newcomb, executive director of Quest Therapeutic Services in West Chester, PA. “It helps with balance, strengthening the core, and sensory input.”

The goal is not to learn to ride a horse, but to use the horse’s movement as a tool. Children sit or kneel on the horse in any direction as three adults guide the horse, provide the therapy and make sure the child is safe. While on horseback, children can also participate in other activities like basketball, putting rings on poles, and working puzzles.

“We’re using the horse’s movement as that tool to facilitate the physical, speech and occupational therapy,” says Newcomb.

Therapeutic riding Unlike hippotherapy, therapeutic riding focuses on using the movement of the horse to give a recreational experience or to teach riding skills to people with disabilities, says Barbara Wertheimer, executive director of Pegasus Therapeutic Riding Academy in Northeast Philadelphia. Through that process the rider derives physical, psychological, mental and emotional therapeutic benefits.

Quest Therapeutic Services

Stable in Bear, DE. “Children who are reluctant to participate in sports feel very comfortable riding. They don’t have that outside pressure.”

“Being on the horse gives the rider the feeling of self confidence, independence, and enjoying an activity that she can call her own,” says Wertheimer.

CAMP

MetroKids.com 23

CAMP 2018

Directory

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

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

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

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

Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more at iDTech.com.

Lavner Camps!

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

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Lavner Camps is the Leader in Summer Enrichment Camps. As the #1 CAMP EXPERIENCE IN SPORTS, TECHNOLOGY, & THE ARTS, we have AWARD WINNING SUMMER CAMPS at 14 Philadelphia Metro, New Jersey & Delaware locations, with 35+ Specialty Camps to choose from... an INCREDIBLE summer camp experience awaits for your child! Our Cutting-Edge Summer Camps include Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Robotics, Minecraft, Coding, Game Design, Culinary Arts, Fashion, Film & Lots More! Pennsylvania locations include Devon Prep, Germantown Academy, Gwynedd Mercy Academy, Newtown Friends, Rosemont College, UPENN, VFES, Waldron Mercy & WCU. Ages 6-15, Co-ed. Space is limited, ACA register now!

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

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

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

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Camp Invention Multiple locations throughout Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey 800-968-4332 campinvention@invent.org Campinvention.org

DAY Camp Invention’s all-new summer program, Fast Forward, shows children that even the wildest and craziest ideas can become reality! Campers in grades K-6 will create a vehicle of the future, design a mechanical robot dog and build futuristic dream homes.

Local educators lead the week of fun, hands-on, STEM activities that encourage children to think big, explore their curiosity and never give up! Visit campinvention. org or call 800-968-4332 to register. Use promo code ThinkBig25 to save $25 (expires 3/23) and ThinkBig15 to save $15 (expires 5/4).

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

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

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

ESF Summer Camps esfcamps.com info@esfcamps.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

24 MetroKids.com

CAMP

APRIL 2018

The #1 Summer STEM Camp for Ages 7–18 Empower your child to take their STEM skills to the next level. From coding and game development to robotics

Held at 150 Prestigious Universities

and design, your child will develop in-demand skills

Carnegie Mellon | UPenn | Villanova | Lehigh Arcadia | Bryn Mawr | West Chester | Princeton

and ignite lifelong passions—all within a fun, inclusive environment. Get ready for the best summer ever!

Get a brochure and find a camp near you! iDTechCamps.com | 1-844-788-1858

CAMPS & ACADEMIES

Est. 1981

Camp for Creative Arts, Technology, Sports, Swimming and more!

1405 Twining Road • Dresher, PA 19025 • 215-657-3388 •2 - 11 Week Sessions

• Door to Door Transportation • Extended Hours Available

• Non-consecutive wks avail.

• Air Conditioned Buildings

• Professional Teaching Staff • Great Camper/Staff Ratio

• Pre-School Enrichment Camp • Teen Quest Program

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Instruments, Rock and Jazz Bands, Theater, Art, Legos, Robotics, Dance, Fashion Design, Voice , Photography, Pastry Arts, Creative Writing, Computer Animation, Film Making, Strategy Games, Science, Rocketry, Nature, Swim, Archery, Sports and More!

mper New Ca nt!

Discou

OPEN HOUSES/TOURS FOR SUMMER 2018: (rain or shine): Sunday, April 8, 1pm-4pm • Saturday, April 14, 10am-2pm Sunday, April 22, 1pm-4pm • Saturday, April 28, 10am-2pm

info@burnbraedaycamp.com APRIL 2018

Celebrating 37 Years!

CAMP

burnbraedaycamp.com MetroKids.com 25

CAMP 2018

Directory BUCKS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

DELAWARE VALLEY UNIVERSITY

CHESTER

DELAWARE

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

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

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

DAY The Agnes Irwin School presents Summer at AIS: Adventures for the Independent Spirit, a program for boys and girls in grades PreK-12 that empowers campers to build their own week-long adventures! Camp families can enjoy the freedom to create full- or half-day programs, sampling a variety of activities or focusing on a particular area of interest. Courses are available in the arts, athletics, academics and more for children to exercise their bodies, minds and creative spirits.

Featuring new programming, including AIS Signature programs, Drobots Drone STEM programs, Walnut Street Theatre camps and more! Join us June 11-July 27 for an exciting summer experience that is designed for and by you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Music, visual art, dance and drama. The arts are everywhere! Explore all 4 art forms with a different theme each week. Arts-intensive camps are also available.

SN Download a brochure and register online.

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

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

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

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

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

Summer Camp

by Quantum Villanova, PA 800-228-5327 Supercamp.com

RESIDENTIAL The summer camp experience that lasts a lifetime. Learning lifetime skills; character development; students gain confidence, motivation and academic success. 6 day co-ed residential programs at Villanova University. July programs for middle and high school students.

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

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

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

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

26 MetroKids.com

CAMP

APRIL 2018

Camp Lee Mar

2018 Dates: June 23-August 10

French for Fun

Summer Camp!

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COLLEGIATE � f>_Oft. TENNIS CAMPS lDl&O COLLEGIATE

f>_Oft. TENNIS CAMPS 150 N. Highland Ave. • Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 l&O (610) 667-1284 • www.frenchschoolphila.org

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COLLEGIATE For boys and girls from 4 to 10f>years _Oft. TENNIS l&O CAMPS old—no prior knowledge of French needed!

COLLEGIATE � f>_Oft. TENNIS CAMPS lDl&O

En Français!

de Philadelphie

French International School of Philadelphia

APRIL 2018

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

PHILADELPHIA. PA

PENNLEARNING TENNISFOR CAMP HIGHER YOUR GAME

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

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

PHILADELPHIA. PA

PENN TENNIS CAMP WEEK 1: JUNE 11-15 UNIVERSITY OFWEEK PENNSYLVANIA HIGHER LEARNING FOR YOUR GAME 2: JUNE 18-22 PHILADELPHIA. PA young The camp where their potential WEEK players 3: JUNEfulfill 25-29 with instruction from the4:nation's top college coaches.

WEEK JULY 2-6* 2018 DATES HIGHER LEARNING FOR YOUR GAME WEEK 5: JULY 9-13 The camp where young players their potential WEEKfulfill 6: JULY 16-20 1: JUNE with instruction from the nation'sWEEK top college coaches.11-15 WEEK 7: JULY 23-27 WEEK JUNE318-22 WEEK 8: JULY2: 30-AUG WEEK 1: JUNE 11-15 WEEK 3: JUNE 25-29 9: AUG 6-10 � WEEK 2: JUNE4: 18-22 WEEK JULY 2-6* JUNE5: 25-29 2018 DATESWEEK 3:WEEK JULY 9-13 WEEK 4: JULY6: 2-6* WEEK JULY 16-20 2018 DATES WILSON COLLEGIATE TENNIS CAMP I PENN TENNIS WEEK 5:CAMP JULY 9-13 WEEK 7: JULY WEEK 6: JULY 16-20 23-27 www.wilsontenniscamps.com/penn/ WEEK JULY 30-AUG 3 WEEK 7: JULY 8: 23-27 AUG 6-10 JULY9: 30-AUG 3 � WEEK 8:WEEK WEEK 9: AUG 6-10 �

Songs, games, art, computer, sports, cooking...

Ecole Française Internationale

PENN TENNIS CAMP

Weekly sessions held from 7/2 to 7/27!

WILSON TENNIS CAMP I PENN TENNIS WILSON COLLEGIATE COLLEGIATE TENNIS CAMP I PENN TENNIS CAMP CAMP www.wilsontenniscamps.com/penn/ www.wilsontenniscamps.com/penn/

CAMP

MetroKids.comCOLLEGIA 27 WILSON

www.wils

CAMP 2018

Directory DELAWARE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elmwood Park Zoo Camp 1661 Harding Blvd.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 SN instruction.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CIT SN

Camp MELC 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

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

28 MetroKids.com

CAMP

APRIL 2018

Flourtown Swim Club and

Presented by

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

CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM

ACTIVITIES • Daily Swim Lessons • Recreational Swimming • Archery • Golf INCLUDE.... • Baseball/Softball • Soccer • Tennis • Basketball • Lacrosse

• Field Hockey • Volleyball • Arts & Crafts • Music • Dance • Culinary Arts • GaGa Pit • Sustainable Gardening • Tutoring Services

Kick off summer with

For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net (behind the Flourtown Fire Co.)

www.flourtownswimclub.net

What are you looking for?

KIDS’

CAMPS

FIND THEM IN OUR CAMP DIRECTORY

Page 24 • MetroKids.com/camps

APRIL 2018

Healthy Kids Day

®

1528 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA • 215-836-1429

CAMP

Kids are often more idle in the summer, which is why the YMCA hosts Healthy Kids Day® . Join us for this free community event held to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active all summer long.

YMCA OF GREATER BRANDYWINE

www.ymcagbw.org/hkd

Satu r

April day 21 Ev ent openis FREE & comm to the unity .

MetroKids.com 29

CAMP 2018

Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CIT SN

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHILADELPHIA

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

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

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

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

CIT

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quadrat Academy DAY Quadrat camps for teens, ages 9-16, are for Philadelphia, PA 19121 future entrepreneurs and explorers designed to build 267-997-7744 creativity, confidence and innovative thinking. tell.us@QuadratAcademy.com Quadratacademy.com Shofuso Summer Camp Lansdowne Ave. & Horticultural Dr. Philadelphia, PA 19131 nicole@japanphilly.org japanesehouse.org/education/ summer-camp

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

Society Hill Synagogue 418 Spruce St. Philadelphia, PA 215-922-6590 gparris@societyhillsynagogue.org Societyhillsynagogue.org

DAY Our camp program provides a wonderful curriculum of summer activities for children who are 2 to 5 years old. Many of our Playschool students continue their experience in our camp program. We also welcome children who will be beginning playschool in September to spend their summer with us, too.

Flexible 8 week program will be available in June and July. 2 week long speciality camps will be offered during the first 2 weeks of August. 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

30 MetroKids.com

CAMP

APRIL 2018

CAMP 2018

Directory

OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER

PHILADELPHIA

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

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

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

OUTLYING AREAS - PENNSYLVANIA

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

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Book your child’s best week of the summer at South Central PA’s favorite ski resort where campers enjoy a multitude of adventure-based activities including zip lining, rock climbing, boating, paintball and OGO balling all right here on our 1200 acres. CIT

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

YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser 201 Cushion Peak Rd. PO Box 147 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

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

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

SN

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

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

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

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

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

Pilot Summer Camp The Pilot School, 208 Woodlawn Rd., Wilmington, DE cshivone@pilotschool.org Pilotschool.org

DAY Children ages 5-12 will benefit from our multi-sensory approach, which offers them the opportunity to engage in activities while learning.

This fun, hands-on camp focuses on special skills, team building, science experiments and nature while integrating reading and math.

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

DAY Serving Center City/South Jersey/shore points.

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

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

RESIDENTIAL No other marine science camp offers as many face-to-face encounters to closely observe and study whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and puffins in their own natural habitat. Board our research vessel for unmatched opportunities to observe marine life.

Explore beaches, coastal trails and fishing villages on beautiful Grand Manan Island. Ask about our $40,000 college scholarships, STEM projects & college credits.

OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER

NEW Camp Haluwasa 377 Ehrke Rd. Hammonton, NJ 877-234-2267 Campingnj.com

DAY, RESIDENTIAL The Ultimate South Jersey Christian Camping Experience! Exciting overnight & day camp programs for boys & girls ages 6-16 in a Christian environment. Water park with rope swing, waterslides, zip-line & a sandy beach! Activities: swimming, obstacle course, climbing walls, field games, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, ropes course, arts & crafts, and a ride-on railroad! Open House: May 19 & June 16, 2018, 10 am-3 pm with free train tours & BBQ.

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

REGISTER ONLINE NOW FOR SUMMER CLASSES AND CAMPS

Downingtown and Broomall Locations

• • • • • •

Camp Create Camp Walnut St. Theatre Summer Dance Camp TOCD Summer Intensive Ballet Boot Camp Summer Classes

REGISTER NO FOR SPRING AND SUMMER EVEN

• Baby Dance 6 Week Sessions • The Movement In House Works • Camp Create • TOCD Summer Intensive • Ballet Boot Camp • Camp Walnut Street Theatre A • Summer Classes

Broomall Studio 483 Park Way, Broomall, PA • 610-328-1800 Downingtown Studio 150 E. Pennsylvaia Avenue, Downingtown, PA • 610-518-2130

www.touchofclassdance.com

APRIL 2018

CAMP

MetroKids.com 31

483 Park W

150 E. Penns

SpecialKids

Continued from p. 16

intervention, we should be embracing this and addressing it early on.”

Eggerding believes many of the eating issues stem from the fact that some children with autism have a more sensitive taste system. For example, one reason many children with autism refuse green vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli, is that those foods can be bitter to their taste buds.

“This can be a lifetime of challenges that hopefully get better over time. Feeding therapy is a long-term process,” Eggerding says. “By the

Like

3

Tips on How to Deal With Eating Problems.

time you get to feeding therapy, there has often been a whole history of negative experiences that haven’t been effective.”

Parents have an instinctual need to feed their children because it connects them to their role of nourishing their children. “When the experience goes badly, it can be extremely overwhelming,” she says.

1. Bring back old favorites. Start with foods the child has eaten in the most recent past before his or her diet became extremely narrow.

2. Go slow. Many therapists will start with having the child touch, smell or lick the food before he or she ever takes a tiny bite.

3. Alter one variable. Graduate from regular French fries to sweet potato fries or cubed sweet potatoes. If the child eats vanilla yogurt, introduce banana or another light color yogurt.

Debra Wallace is a freelance writer.

Log on to MetroKids.com/EatingProblems to see how to help a typical child with eating problems.

.com

Follow

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As Easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. Submit a photo of your natural, good-looking kid to MetroKids.com/coverkids

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Deadline: July 1, 2018

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APRIL 2018

CAMPS

CAMPS/CLASSES

BULLETIN BOARD

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Music, Art & Laughs!

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ting, Fused Pottery Pain & Parties ics Glass, Mosa

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622 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA (corner of 9th & Bainbridge Streets)

Kids’ TOUCH TYPING & TYPEWRITER CLASSES! Sat. start April 7•4 classes ($40) 6-8 yrs•9-12 yrs•teens

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West Mt Airy | 267 974 0792 www.wpmTypewriterShop.com

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Sun., Apr. 15 7, • 2:30-4:30 February 2-4 pmpm th

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

RAMAH DAY CAMP PreK to 7th grade, 8-10th grade (CITs)

215-885-8556 | ramahdaycamp.org 7601 Old York Rd., Elkins Park Looking for a wonderful summer camp program? CAMP HOURS ARE:

Well...Look no further!

MONDAY –FRIDAY 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM CAMP CURRICULUM IS DESIGNED FOR KIDS AGED 2-5

2018 SUMMER CAMP AT SHS MONDAY, JUNE 4 - FRIDAY,AUGUST 3

FLEXIBLE ENROLLMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE

Riding • Different Themes Each Week

LIMITED NUMBER OF SPOTS FOR SUMMER CAMP

REGISTER EARLY!

APRIL 2018

Society Hill Synagogue 418 Spruce Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 215.992.6590

www.societyhillsynagogue.org

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

www.busybeeschildcare.com

Full Day Kindergarten Taking Applications NOW for

Summer Enrollment

Norristown Business Area 6:00AM-6:30PM Certified Teachers Licensed by the Dept of Education

MAGIC MOMENTS for Children

1920 Marshall street JeFFersONVIlle, Pa

610-539-7743

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM CONTACT PLAYSCHOOL DIRECTOR Free Play • Circle Time • Arts & Crafts GLORIA PARRIS AT • Creative Movement • Story Time • Music-based Activities • Water Play • Bike 215.922.6590 X28

Early Care - 7:45 AM to 8:30 AM After School/Camp - until 3PM Late Care - 3PM to 6PM Mon-Fri

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

What are you looking for?

DAYCARE

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MetroKids.com/childcare MetroKids.com 33

Family Fun

In Our nature

Nature provides a wealth of fun for kids as they burn energy, get imaginative and enjoy a day of play. It’s also a truly interactive educational experience — if you ask the right questions. While you’re exploring these local parks and nature centers, use our prompts to spark conversation and discovery.

LAKES, PONDS & STREAMS DISCUSS What animals do you think come here to drink?

What creatures do you see living in the water?

What about at the edge of the water?

What is different about the plants by the water?

How do you think plants grow in the water?

Nockamixon State Park, Quakertown

The 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon is a hotspot for migrating waterfowl and boaters. Revel in the sights during a pontoon boat tour, where a guide discusses the park’s history and wildlife.

Riverbend Environmental Education Center, Gladwyne

MEADOWS

Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington

DISCUSS

Lorimer Park, Huntingdon Valley

What do the flowers smell like?

What colors do you see?

What does the sky look like from here?

How many types of animals do you think live in the meadow?

What does the dirt feel like in the meadow?

Why do ants dig holes? What do you think they are doing underground?

Why do bees buzz from flower to flower?

Get your feet wet! Pennypack Creek teems with aquatic insects, fish and salamanders.

Little ones can opt for Harper’s Run, the shallower stream that feeds into it.

VISIT ChesLen Preserve, Coatesville

The preserve’s massive agricultural fields and meandering meadows immerse visitors in lush landscapes. Follow paved trails that wind through flower patches, shaded woodlands and sprouting corn and soybeans. Don’t miss the Unionville Barrens section, dubbed a state-certified wild plant sanctuary.

34 MetroKids.com

The meadows here boast a variety of wildflowers that change with the season, including spring beauties, sunflowers, trout lilies, loosestrife and asters. See what’s in bloom during naturalist-led hikes.

Stream exploration is a big draw here. Kids get their hands dirty while they search for insects, caterpillars, crayfish and other swimmy creatures.

VISIT After you hit the natural playground and bird observatory, stroll to the pond.

An ecosystem within itself, the space provides fresh water to all kinds of plants and animals, so you never know what you’ll find; peek under rocks, sift through pebbles and identify nearby plants.

Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown

TREES DISCUSS What signs of the season can you see?

Can you see any treasures that have fallen from the tree?

How old do you think the trees are?

How many different types of trees can you find?

What is similar and different about the trees you see?

What animals do you think live in the trees?

APRIL 2018

Family Fun VISIT Morris Arboretum, Phila.

The Tree Adventures exhibit lets kids absorb the forest’s scenery from a 50-foot-high canopy walk, enter a “bird’s nest,” sit on a giant robin’s egg and peer at the ground far below through a large hammock-like net.

set off, grab a brochure that details what you’ll see throughout the trek.

What animal do you think left that track?

WETLANDS

VISIT

DISCUSS How many colors do you see?

How many different types of plants can you see?

What color is the soil here? How does it feel?

What kinds of animals do you think live here?

VISIT John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Phila.

Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton

Just outside the park office, Millennium Grove is one of two Pennsylvania sites designated to promote the planting of seedlings from “parent trees” with historical significance. Keep an eye out for trees associated with Johnny Appleseed, Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain.

Among its 1,000 acres, the refuge is home to the largest freshwater tidal marsh in the state. This marsh type is one of the world’s most biologically diverse ecosystems, supporting an array of plants and heavily used by local birds. Take it in during family-friendly guided hikes.

Tyler Arboretum, Media

Climb, explore and play on quirky treehouses. Just past the visitor center, the Storybook House features three small cottages on an 8-foot-tall raised deck. And, right off the Scenic Loop, the ADA-accessible Fort Tyler treehouse is reminiscent of the kid-favorite pastime of building makeshift forts.

Churchville Nature Center, Churchville

From June through September, the butterfly house is a family-favorite. The space, which houses moths and butterflies in every stage of their life cycle, highlights how metamorphosis works, the creatures’ migratory patterns and how to use wildflowers to attract butterflies to your yard.

Pennypack Environmental Center, Phila.

Originally designated as a bird sanctuary, the center provides plenty of ways to see them up-close. Watch resident birds flit around Pennypack Creek or, inside the center, peer through floor-to-ceiling windows to catch them grazing at feeders.

Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila.

More than 120 types of birds have been spotted in the woodlands, fields, streams and ponds. Document your findings in a trail-sightings book at the front desk, then join the birding club to learn all about these creatures.

Upper Schuylkill Valley Park, Royersford

This place is a haven for critters. Rabbits, foxes, a deer, wolves, owls, a bald eagle and turkeys are ready for your visit to the wildlife center. Over at the Schuylkill Wilds exhibit, say “hi” to river dwellers such as turtles, frogs and fish.

Silver Lake Nature Center, Bristol Don’t forget your boots! In addition to a mossy bog, the park features vernal ponds; scattered throughout the woodlands, plenty of frogs and toads dwell there.

WILDLIFE DISCUSS

Warwick County Park, Pottstown

Developed by a local Eagle Scout, the interpretive Adirondack Tree ID Trail passes through the hardwood forest. Before you

APRIL 2018

What signs of wildlife do you see here?

Find 10 critters or signs of critters.

Where do you think birds live?

How do you think they built their nests? What materials do you think they used?

Why do birds sing?

Prompts compiled by Dorothy Sasso, a Montgomery County, PA-based teacher with Tinkergarten, an outdoor early education program.

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

MetroKids.com 35

Family Fun

Special needs event

Editor's Pick

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

1 Sunday

Brandywine Hills Point-to-Point at the Myrick Conservation Center, West Chester. Watch horse and pony steeplechase races and a parade of foxhounds, then partake in kids’ activities. $$$$ Chestnut Hill Home and Garden Festival on Germantown Avenue, Phila. This outdoor garden marketplace features vendors, artists, craftspeople, live music, amusement rides, face painting and arts & crafts. FREE Easter Bunny Brunch at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. Also includes an egg hunt, crafts and photos with the Bunny. $$$$ Easter Bunny Brunch and Egg Hunt at the Elmwood Park Zoo, Norristown. $$$$

Revel in the beauty of the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival, April 7-15 in Philly.

2 Monday

Give Kids a Smile Day at multiple locations. Children in Philly and Delaware and Montgomery counties who are uninsured or underinsured can schedule a dental checkup at participating offices. FREE Wearable Art Workshop at the Darlington Arts Center, Garnet Valley. Kids tie-dye, make jewelry and key chains, and explore fiber arts. $$$$

3 Tuesday

Museum Playdate at the Penn Museum, Phila. Exploration, storytime and dramatic play are themed to the Greek gallery. $$

4 Wednesday

Easter Bunny Train at the Strasburg Rail Road, Ronks. Ride through the countryside with the Bunny as the conductor. $$$$

Child's Play Series: Sheep at the Peter Wentz Farmstead, Lansdale.

Learn about the animal and make a wool craft. $

Easter Cruises on the Spirit of Philadelphia, Phila. Sail along the Delaware River while you enjoy lunch or dinner, DJ music and games. $$$$

Make a Website Using HTML/CSS at the South Philadelphia Library, Phila. Run by TechGirlz. FREE

Easter Promenade at South Street Headhouse District, Phila.

Watch the parade, visit the Easter Bunny and Mr. and Mrs. Peter Cottontail, and enter contests for “best dressed” and “best Easter bonnet.” FREE

Weekly Preschool Storytime at the Open Book Bookstore, Elkins Park. FREE

First Sunday Family Day: Spring Awakening at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Activities include paper-flower making, a scavenger hunt, music and stories. FREE Flyers Autism Awareness Day at the Wells Fargo Center, Phila. $$$$ Springtime in the Park at Hersheypark, Hershey. Preview the summer season with live entertainment and dozens of rides. $$$$

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5 Thursday 7 Saturday

Animal Superhero Weekend at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Discover how animals influence characters such as Spider-Man and Catwoman via animal visits, activity stations and crafts. $$$ Phillies’ Autism Awareness Night at Citizens Bank Park, Phila. $$$$ Family Fishing Derby at Linvilla Orchards, Media. Reel in prizes and family fun during this not-so-competitive event. No fishing license required. $$$$

APRIL 2018

On the Scene

April is Autism Awareness Month and families can mark the occasion at venues throughout April. The MK crew will join you at the Philadelphia Zoo’s Autism Awareness Day on April 8. There’ll be an autism research expo and merchandise market, sensory and craft stations, magic shows, jugglers, live music and character appearances. Be sure to stop by our booth to stock up on magazines and make a craft.

Golden Dragon Acrobats perform at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, Drexel Hill. $$$$ Historic Timeline at the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, Newtown Square. Re-enactors guide visitors through 300 years of American history, from early settlers to WWII. $$ Kiting Adventure at Liberty Lands Park, Phila. Decorate and fly a kite. $$$ Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival at Morris Arboretum, Phila.

Browse the arboretum’s cherry trees and partake in art, culture and garden-inspired family activities. $$$ Sensory-friendly Screening: Raiders of the Lost Ark at the Colonial Theatre, Phoenixville. Lights stay on, volume is lowered and audience members can move and speak freely. $$ Spring Mommy Market at Walton Farm Elementary School, Lansdale. Find baby to tween clothing, outerwear, books, shoes, toys, games and sports equipment. $ Springtime in the Park at Hersheypark, Hershey. See April 1. $$$$

8 Sunday

Animal Superhero Weekend at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. See April 7. $$$ Autism Awareness Day at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. See “MK On the Scene,” above. $$$$ Family Arts Academy: Painting with Light at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Learn the earliest form of the photographic process using sunlight and expose your own print.

FREE Historic Timeline at the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, Newtown Square. See April 7. $$ Paws for Art at Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, Millville, NJ. Watch canines compete in the “Wheaton Barks Dog Show,” view animal-themed glass-making demos, run with your pup through the agility course and browse pet supplies. FREE PECO Family Jams: The Shape of a Legacy at Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, Phila. Create mixed-media collages that explore family, history and dreams. $$ Science at the Ballpark at Citizens Bank Park, Phila. Join the Phillie Phanatic for activities, crafts and games, then watch the team take on the Miami Marlins. $$$$

APRIL 2018

Springtime in the Park at Hersheypark, Hershey. See April 1. $$$$ Suminagashi Paper-Marbling Workshop at the Rikumo Concept Store, Phila. Learn about Suminagashi, Japanese-style paper marbling, by transforming a white sheet of paper into colorful art. $$$ Sushi-Making Class at the Tokio HeadHouse, Phila. For teens and adults who plan to shore up their skills for the sushi-making competition later this month, or want to learn something new. $$$$

9 Monday

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Phila. FREE Sakura Crafty Story Circle.

Sakura Origami Workshop: Get inspired by the cherry blossoms to fold a variety of themed origami.

Sushi-Making Class at the Tokio HeadHouse, Phila. See April 8. $$$$ Taiko Drum and Dance Performance at Ursinus College, Collegeville. Performed by Tamagawa University. FREE

10 Tuesday

Kimono-Dressing Demo at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Phila. FREE Sushi-Making Class at the Tokio HeadHouse, Phila. See April 8. $$$$ Taiko Drum and Dance Performance at Haverford College’s Marshall Auditorium, Haverford. Performed by Tamagawa University. FREE

11 Wednesday

Creatures of the Night Masquerade Mask Workshop at the Kingsessing Recreation Center, Phila. Use reclaimed and recycled materials to create wildlife-inspired masks and costumes. FREE Garden Explorations Tours and Sketching at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Phila. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the venue and draw what you’ve seen. FREE Mulch Madness at the Aldie Mansion, Doylestown. Help prepare and beautify the space for spring. FREE Tiny Tot Explorers at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila.

Explore nature through songs, games and museum exploration. $$$$ Sushi-Making Class at the Tokio HeadHouse, Phila. See April 8. $$$$

12 Thursday

Amateur Sushi-Making Contest at the Tokio HeadHouse, Phila. Observers can sample appetizers and sushi made by the competitors. $$$$ Books and Boots at the Myrick Conservation Center, West Chester. Join Potter the Otter for storytime that leads to an outdoor adventure. $$ Shogi and Japanese Games at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Phila.

Learn to play shogi, a Japanese strategy game similar to chess. FREE

MetroKids.com 37

Family Fun Spring Seasonal Sensory Lesson at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Kids discover how animals use their senses to survive. $

PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE

Stroller Tour at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. $$$

Public Archaeology Day at Newlin Grist Mill, Glen Mills. Help out professional archaeologists with site excavation, artifact screening and fare.

FREE

Spring Storytime Series at Suburban Square, Ardmore. Listen to Reds and Twinkle read by author Diane Milowicki. FREE

13 Friday

Homeschool Day at the American Helicopter Museum, West Chester. Hands-on activities teach kids how helicopters work. $$$ Manga Pins Workshop at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Phila. FREE

14 Saturday

Second Saturday at the Penn Museum, Phila.

Tours, scavenger hunts and crafts focus on cities around the globe. $$ Sensory-friendly Saturday: Adventures in Art at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. Visitors on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorder and their families engage in art activities and explore the venue in a modified setting. FREE

Be the Match Walk and Run at the Navy Yard, Phila. Proceeds go toward research and helping patients with blood cancers and other life-threatening diseases afford transplants. $$$$

Sheep-Shearing Day at the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, Newtown Square. Learn how to care for sheep and other farm animals, watch shearing demos and try your hand at carding wool. $$

Earth Day Festival at the at the Bucks County Audubon Society, New Hope. See “Town & County,” right. FREE

Springtime in the Park at Hersheypark, Hershey. See April 1. $$$$

Family Festival: The Five Senses at the Please Touch Museum, Phila. Activities engage each of the senses. $$$

Earth Fest at Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington. See “Town & County,” right. FREE

Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival at Morris Arboretum, Phila. See April 7. $$$ John Cassidy Balloon Freak performs at the Sellersville Theater, Sellersville. $$

15 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Oddities at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Use hand-building techniques to make ceramic artwork. FREE Huddle Up for Autism with the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field, Phila.

Meet players and cheerleaders, take tours of the field and locker room, and enjoy face painting, moonbounces, magic shows and resource tables. FREE Kiting Adventure at Cedar Park, Phila. See April 7. $$$ Orienteering for All Ages at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Pick up the basics of this map-led treasure hunt, then test your skills on a course. $$

Fab Freebie

Kick off the Philadelphia Science Festival April 20 by spending the night under the stars with Star Party events at 25 area venues. Visitors use telescopes and binoculars to watch the sky and enjoy activities that vary by location, including campfires, science fairs and star-map making.

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Town & County: Earth Day

Sakura Sunday at the Fairmount Park Horticultural Center, Phila. Celebrate Japanese culture with music, dance and martial-arts performances, fashion shows, karaoke, arts & crafts and the Prettiest Pet in Pink Parade. $$$ Springtime in the Park at Hersheypark, Hershey. See April 1. $$$$ Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants Walk at Lorimer Park, Huntingdon Valley. Learn about the history of these plants, their nutritional value, how to prepare them for eating and which wild greens to avoid. FREE

Find new ways for the family to go green and get outside in celebration of Earth Day on April 22.

PHILADELPHIA The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education’s Naturepalooza Family Festival (April 21) features hikes, crafts and environmental art activities. And Morris Arboretum’s Arbor Day Family Day (April 28) appeals to kids who dig trees. Design a tree house, make a “tree map” of the area and shadow an arborist to find out what the job entails.

BUCKS COUNTY Bucks County Audubon Society’s Earth Day Festival (April 14) in New Hope boasts plenty of eco-friendly fun, including wildlife presentations, bird walks, bug hunts, native plant sales and artisan vendors.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY Abington’s Briar Bush Nature Center hosts Earth Fest (April 15), complete with animal programs, crafts and games. Want to get your hands dirty? Head to Norristown Farm Park in East Norriton to partake in the Animal Habitat Restoration Project (April 22). Volunteers plant native species and remove invasive plants.

APRIL 2018

16 Monday

Taiko Drum and Dance Performance at Swarthmore College, Swarthmore. Performed by Tamagawa University. FREE

17 Tuesday

Morning Bird Walk at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Bring binoculars if you have them, FREE Toddler Time at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila.

Little ones find out where dairy products come from and experience Swedish dairy farm traditions. $

19 Thursday

Toddler Time at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Kids are introduced to the art world via stories, projects and movement activities. $

21 Saturday

Brick Fest Live at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks.

Build and race a Lego derby car, watch Lego-themed movies; play in a “brick sandbox”; create a brick-art mosaic; and try mini golf with Lego obstacles. $$$$ International Spring Festival at North Penn High School, Lansdale. Enjoy entertainment on six stages, crafts, a planetarium, Bollywood dance demos, a health fair and multicultural exhibits.

FREE Naturepalooza: A Family Earth Day Celebration at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 38. FREE Rosebud Garden Story Hour at the Kimberton Waldorf School, Phoenixville. FREE Sandy Sprint Superhero 5K/10K at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Benefits the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation. $$$$ Sensory-friendly Screening: The Princess Bride at the Colonial Theatre, Phoenixville. Lights stay on, volume is lowered and audience members can move and speak freely. $$ Spring Storytime Series at Suburban Square, Ardmore. Listen to Georgie and the Ants in the Pants read by author Jolie Della Valle. FREE Water/Pinwheel Adventure at Cedar Park, Phila. Decorate a water bottle or pinwheel. $$$

22 Sunday

Brick Fest Live at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks.

See April 21. $$$$ Fairy Watercolor Workshop at the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion, Phila. All skill levels are welcome to try watercolor techniques and make a themed painting. $$$$ Family Arts Academy: Be a Sound Engineer at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. See how sound waves of different frequencies produce visual patterns when shown on a Chlandi Plate. FREE Family Birding in the Wetlands at Morris Arboretum, Phila. Spot birds that migrate to the area for the summer, birds that live here year-round and nesting species. $$$$ "Kids Corner" 30th Anniversary Concert at the World Café Live, Phila. See “Fan of,” below. $$$$ Run for Clean Air at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Also includes a race just for kids. $$$$ Sacred Arts Festival at the Glencairn Museum, Bryn Athyn.

Watch glass blowing, stone carving, glass painting and a the creation of a sand mandala. $$ Storybook Ball at the Please Touch Museum, Phila. Themed “Medieval Fantasy,” kids can check out a medieval castle; meet Sleeping Beauty, Merida and a knight in shining armor; and explore history through stories and play. $$$$ Taiko Drumming Workshop at the Defensive Arts Center, Phila. $$$$

23 Monday

Earth Day Project for Kids at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton.

See “Town & County,” p. 38. $

24 Tuesday

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

26 Thursday

124th Penn Relays at University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field, Phila. $$$$ Brain Food: Science Night at Reading Terminal Market, Phila.

Watch demos and experiments while you browse select merchants. $$$$

Animal Habitat Restoration Project at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. See “Town & County,” p. 38. FREE

Science in the National Park at Independence National Historical Park, Phila. Activities explore the connections between history and science. FREE

Be A Geologist! Day at the Wagner Free Institute of Science, Phila. Staff and geologists lead interactive activities about rocks and minerals. FREE

124th Penn Relays at the University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field, Phila. $$$$

27 Friday

Fan of . . . "Kids Corner" Kathy O’Connell, longtime MetroKids contributor and host of the acclaimed "Kids Corner" on WXPN, celebrates a major milestone for the show this month: three decades on-air! Read our profile (p. 8) and join the party April 22 during the "KIds Corner" 30th Anniversary Concert at the World Café Live in Philly. Spanning two stages and featuring some of kindie music’s hottest acts, families can rock out to Trout Fishing in America, Lard Dog & the Band of Shy, Chibi Kodama and Billy Kelly.

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APRIL 2018

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

There will be animal presentations, activities and, for adults, a beer garden. $$ Family Nature Night at Briar Bush Nature Center, Abington.

Kids with autism and their families enjoy animal presentations and learning stations that focus on the colors of nature. FREE Parents’ Night Out: Food Science at the Lenfest Center, Phila.

Drop the kids off to get a firsthand look at chemical reactions in food. FREE Pop-Up Storytime at the Market at DelVal, Doylestown. FREE West Philly STEM-a-thon at White Rock Baptist Church, Phila.

Budding scientists engage in activities that encourage them to build and tinker. FREE

28 Saturday

PERFORMANCES

124th Penn Relays at University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field, Phila. $$$$

The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Jr. at the Walnut Street Theatre, Phila. Through April 14. $$$

Arbor Day Family Day at Morris Arboretum, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 38. $$$

Snow White at the Prince Theater, Phila. Performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet. April 14 & 15. $$$$

Civil War Reenactment at Neshaminy State Park, Bensalem. More than 1,000 reenactors recreate battles and camp-life scenarios. FREE Electronic Funny Faces Workshop at SAP, Newtown Square. Kids learn about electronic circuits and create “faces” with moving parts. Run by TechGirlz. FREE Frog Walk and Night Hike at the Bucks County Audubon Society, New Hope.

After a presentation about amphibians and their behaviors, stroll the grounds in search of frogs and toads. $$$ Opening Day at Sesame Place, Langhorne. $$$$

Sesame Street Live: Let’s Party at the Liacouras Center, Phila.

April 14-16. $$$$ Junie B. Jones at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, Drexel Hill. April 20. $$$ Alice in Wonderland at the Ambler Theater, Ambler.

Performed by Family Stages. April 21. $$ Peter and the Wolf at Verizon Hall, Phila. April 21. $$$$ Zuzz the Alien Needs Your Help! at the Act II Playhouse, Ambler. April 21-29. $$$ Wild Kratts at the Merriam Theater, Phila. April 22. $$$$ The Sound of Music (pictured) at the Merriam Theater, Phila.

April 24-29. $$$$ Prince Charming: A Cinderella Story at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, Drexel Hill. April 28. $$$

29 Sunday

Civil War Reenactment at Neshaminy State Park, Bensalem. See April 28. FREE

Pop-Up Naturalist: Animal Homes at Newlin Grist Mill, Glen Mills. Interactive demos, live specimens, games and crafts round out the day. FREE

Family Arts Academy: Robo Art at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Use unusual tools and technology to answer the question: Do robots make art? FREE

Science Carnival on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Phila.

The culmination of the Philadelphia Science Festival educates and entertains families with hands-on demos, experiments and entertainment. FREE

Full Moon Hike at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. During the walk, see why this month’s moon is often dubbed the “pink moon” or “fish moon.” FREE

Science Saturday: Helicopter Hunt at the American Helicopter Museum, West Chester. Images, video and activities teach visitors the basic parts of a helicopter and how it works. $$ STEMgirlz Discovery Day at Bucks County Community College, Newtown. Middle-school girls watch presentations by experts in STEM fields and break into small groups for activities led by college students. $$$$

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Run Wild for the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. The fundraiser also features entertainment, giveaways, photo opportunities and crafts. $$$$ Water/Pinwheel Adventure at Liberty Lands Park, Phila. See April 21. $$$

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

APRIL 2018

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

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PREK

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

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

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

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

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

MULTIPLE SITES

DREXEL HILL, 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

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

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 267-520-7200 • http://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 KIDDIE ACADEMY OF LANGHORNE 670 Woodbourne Rd., Langhorne, PA 19067 215-750-5512 • http://educationaldaycare.kiddieacademy.com/academies/langhorne Ages: Infant -5 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am – 6:30pm At Kiddie Academy of Langhorne, we are passionate about providing quality care and education. Every child works at his/her own pace as we make learning fun with our Life Essentials focusing on Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum, Health and Fitness, Technology and Character Education. We are Keystone Star level 2. FY, SP, MP, DA, DHS* PLEASANTVILLE PRE-SCHOOL 3424 Limekiln Pike, Chalfont, PA 18914 215-822-9741 • pleasantvillepreschool.org • Ages: 3 -5 yrs. • Hours: 9:30am - 11:30am Pleasantville Pre-School established in 1969 offers a traditional preschool experience for children 3-5 years of age. Our qualified staff provides a warm, caring environment for children in the Bucks/Mont. area. We help children make a positive adjustment to school routine, participate co-operatively in classroom activities and find curiosity in learning. AY, DE* RAINBOW ACADEMY FOR LITTLE SCHOLARS 1240 Grenoble Rd., Ivyland, PA 18974 215-355-6498 • www.rainbowacademypreschool.com Ages: Toddler – Kindergarten • Hours: 7am-6pm Set on an idyllic 5-acre farm, young children experience a love for oneself, nature, friendship, diversity, learning, and peace. The joy of early childhood blossoms through the social and educational curriculum.FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, TP, SN, DE*, NAEYC TREVOSE DAY SCHOOL / NESHAMINY MONTESSORI 4951 Central Ave., Trevose, PA 19053 215–355-4373 • trevosedayschool.org • neshaminymontessori.org Ages: 2.5-10 yrs. • Hours: 7am-6pm Established in 1970, our programs excel at offering state-of-the-art education in a communityminded environment. We combine interactive technology, the visual and performing arts and scientific exploration with a sustainable hands-on approach that values our planet and nurtures curiosity. Our teachers are Pennsylvania Certified Early Childhood and Elementary Education Teachers. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, SN, AMS

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

Our unique hands-on, minds-on curriculum encourages and celebrates curiosity, imagination, and exploration. Offering a full-day kindergarten program with full- and half-day nursery school, preschool, and pre-k options. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, PAIS

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

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

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

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

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

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

AY, SP, BS, AS, PAIS

APRIL 2018

Early Education Directory DAY CARE

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PREK

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KINDERGARTEN

MAIN LINE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY

POTTSTOWN, MONTGOMERY COUNTY

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

On-site, in-ground pool, swimming lessons. Gymnastics, music, Spanish & Preschool/kindergarten summer camp. SP, DHS, DE, NAEYC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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*

ST. PETER’S SCHOOL 319 Lombard St., Philadelphia, PA, 19147 215-925-3963 • www.st-peters-school.org Ages: 3 yrs.-8th grade • Hours: 7:30am-3pm, after care until 6pm With over 179 years of strong traditions and academic distinction, St. Peter’s School offers a different educational experience. Serving preschool through eighth grade, St. Peter’s is a prominent fixture in Philadelphia’s historic Society Hill neighborhood. AY, SP, BS, AS, PAIS

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 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*

MAIN LINE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY (continued) 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

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

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

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Code: MetroKids18 Exp: 12/31/2018

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