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

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FEBRUARY 2019 Vol. 24, No. 2

Looking for the BEST school or summer program for YOUR child?

The Delaware Valley has some of the most prestigious schools and camps right in our very own backyard.

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Camp 2019 10 LGBTQ Campers Welcome 12 2019 Camp Directory

In This Issue 4 Montessori: The Gift of Simple 5 Religious Schools for All Faiths 6 Guide to Dental Insurance 8 Friends with ADHD 14 MomSpeak Sneak Peek 14 Win It! 18 Kid-free Getaways

7 Health; 9 Camp; 13 Child Care

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WHAT’S INSIDE:

At-a-glance indexes let parents view pertinent facts about regional schools/camps and refer to In-Depth School Profiles for sponsor schools/camps.

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MetroKids.com 3

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Moms Know

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

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

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

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

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

Here are a few guidelines.

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

Less is more

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

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

Practice letting go

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

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

Rotate

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

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

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Choose toys mindfully

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

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

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

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continued on p. 7 4 MetroKids.com

FEBRUARY 2019

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Education

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

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

Right fit, regardless of faith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Supports a child’s special needs

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

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

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

FEBRUARY 2019

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

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

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

Faith as a family lesson

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

How do parents of different backgrounds handle this exposure?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We’re not here to make new Quakers.”

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

MetroKids.com 5

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Health

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

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

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

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

Employee benefits

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

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

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

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

Affordable Care Act Exchanges

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

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

• Covers kids until age 19.

Private dental insurance

• Only 4 percent of Americans have private dental insurance.

• Private insurance is often very expensive.

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

Public options

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

Discount plans

• Pay an annual fee of up to $200.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orthodontics

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

Special needs

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

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

Suzanne Koup-Larsen is a contributing writer for MetroKids.

No dental insurance

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

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

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Moms Know continued from p. 4

12/7/18 3:46 PM

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

Focus on beauty and order

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

Adults seek out these kinds of places to help them access a creative flow and spiritual insights, or to rest and rejuvenate.

Bring a little of that wonderful energy into your home by displaying toys and activities in a way that entices and has a clear sense of order. Your children will respond to this simple beauty, just as they do in their classrooms.

Olynda Smith is a Montessori early-childhood teacher. This article was excerpted from an article published in Montessori Life magazine, Spring 2018. Š2018 American Montessori Society. Used with permission. All rights reserved. www.amshq.org

FEBRUARY 2019

MetroKids.com 7

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SpecialKids

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

Here’s how you can help.

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

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

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

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

Plan playdates

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

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

8 MetroKids.com

has the better they do socially.”

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

Prep for social interactions

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

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

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

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

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

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

Intervene cautiously

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Susan Stopper is a PA-based freelance writer.

FEBRUARY 2019

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Camp

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

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

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

‘It’s just no big deal’

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mickey especially appreciates how the camp embraces diversity and holds acceptance

10 MetroKids.com

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

Diversity’s life lessons

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

She appreciates that her kids meet all kinds of children.

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

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

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

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

CAMP

Young generations lead the way

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

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

continued on p. 13

FEBRUARY 2019

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July $ July 22 3-week - Aug. 8 22 - Aug. 8 795 session Grades 4-7in Acting Grades 4-7 Master Class $ 795 June 24 Class - July 12in Acting 3-week session 3-week session Master July 22 - Aug. 9 $ 24 - July 12 $ June 795 Class 795 Master Grades 8-12in Acting

SUMMER 2019!

July - Aug. 3-week session June 2422 - July 12 9 8-129 $ JulyGrades 22 Aug. 725 Master Class in Acting MasterGrades Class in session Acting 3-week 8-12 June June 243-week - July 12 24 - July 12 $ session 725 22 - Aug. 9 July 22 $- Aug.July 9 725by Grades Taught professional artists, 8-12on the West Windsor Campus of Mercer County Community College.

Grades Taught 8-12by professional artists, on the West Windsor Campus of Mercer County Community Tomato Patch, now in its 46 year, is the longest running, most successful multidisciplinary summer arts Patch, now in its 46th year, is the longest running, most successful multidisciplinary 3-week College. session programTomato in3-week central Newsession Jersey. summer arts program in central New Jersey. $ $ 725 artists, on the West Windsor Campus of Mercer County Community College.

725 Taught by professional year, is the longest running, successful summer arts Tomato Patch, nowartists, in its 46 Taught by professional on ththe West Windsor Campus of most Mercer County multidisciplinary Community College.

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• 1200 Old Trenton Road • West Windsor, NJ 08550 MCCC program in central New Jersey.

1, 2, 3, & 4-week sessions available

odysseyteencamp.com | 844.239.6882

Taught by professional on the West Windsor Mercer County Community College. ght by professional artists, on the Westartists, Windsor Campus of MercerCampus County of Community College.

CallTomato 609-570-3566 or in visit www.kelseytheatre.net th is themost longest running, most successfulsummer multidisciplinary summer arts Patch, now its 46th year, year, is the longest running, successful multidisciplinary arts mato Patch, now in its 46 CallMCCC 609-570-3566 or visit www.kelseytheatre.net • 1200 Old Trenton Road • West Windsor, NJ 08550 in central New Jersey. gram in MCCC centralprogram Jersey.

•New • West Windsor, NJ 08550 1200 Old Trenton Road

Call or 609-570-3566 or visit www.kelseytheatre.net l 609-570-3566 visit www.kelseytheatre.net • 1200 MCCC Old• Trenton Road • NJ West Windsor, NJ 08550 CCC • 1200 Old Trenton Road West Windsor, 08550

a High-energy, hands-on stem camp

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

FEBRUARY 2019

CAMP

MetroKids.com 11

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Camp Directory

GLOUCESTER

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

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

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

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

Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps.

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

BURLINGTON Camp Creek Run 199 Taunton Lake Rd., Marlton; 856-596-4250 campcreekrun@yahoo.com Campcreekrun.com

DAY Get close to nature at Camp Creek Run! Located in Marlton on 50 wooded acres, we offer certified teachers; sports, arts & nature programs; fishing & boating; swim instruction; pools; archery range; nature center; hiking trails; basketball, volleyball & gaga courts; challenge course; pollinator and vegetable gardens; and farm sanctuary.

Future Scholars Early Learning Center 1351 Rt. 38 W., B-1, Hainesport 609-518-1333 admin@futurescholarslearning.com Futurescholarslearning.com

DAY Summer Camp offers full & half days with various schedules available. Activities include field trips & in-house visitors along with science experiments, water play, cooking classes, music & sports, just to name a few! We continue to educate your child through our theme-based activities & curriculum so your child won’t fall behind this summer.

Private tutoring available. 6:30am-6:30pm.

JCC Camps at Medford 400 Tuckerton Rd., Medford 856-751-1666 jcccampsatmedford.org

DAY, TRAVEL JCC Camps at Medford enriches children’s lives by teaching values and life skills in a fun, safe and inclusive Jewish environment, while building confidence, sharing successes and creating lasting friendships. Camp is built on the fundamental values of family, love, respect, justice and charity, compassion and kindness.

ACA CIT SN

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

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

ACA

Moorestown Friends School Summer Programs 110 E. Main St., Moorestown 856-914-4493 mcameron@mfriends.org Summer.mfriends.org

DAY Moorestown Friends School offers a number of exciting summer opportunities for children grades PS-12. The Summer Scholars Program options include innovative and exciting approaches to science, robotics, technology, STEM, sports, design, thinking, arts, economics and more. In addition, Academic Transitions courses offer the chance for your child to improve in math, writing and study skills. Many Summer Programs Master Teachers are MFS teachers and department heads, most of whom hold advanced degrees from prestigious universities.

Early Childhood Camps at the Katz JCC 1301 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill 856-424-4444 ext. 1242 donnasnyder@jfedsnj.org Katzjcc.org/ecccamps

DAY Early Childhood Camps at the Katz JCC, an award-winning summer day camp, is the place for little campers ages 2-5 to have big fun! Through STEM activities, creative arts, theater, music, sports, swim lessons, cooking and more, our professional camp staff ensure your child has a fun summer experience.

SN

Haddonfield Friends School Summer Camp 47 N. Haddon Ave., Haddonfield 856-429-6786 ext. 211 Hfsfriends.org

DAY All activities are supervised by trained, experienced, certified educators. Each session incorporates an ageappropriate enrichment theme such as music, sports, cooperative games, crafts, drama, computers, science, cultural connections, nature study & water play. Many theme weeks culminate with events, performances & trips.

Super Star Summer Camp 5 Larwin Rd., Cherry Hill 856-795-4599 theGCAcademy.com

DAY Super Star Summer Camp is where kids learn how to be awesome. We offer a variety of activities for children to enjoy, including swimming, ninja obstacle courses, flip-training, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, tumbling, cheerleading, arts & crafts and more.

SN

CAMDEN COUNTY

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

DAY Serving Center City/South Jersey/Shore Points. State certified & accredited by ACA. 66 acres include 45,000-sq. ft. of A/C indoor space, climbing tower, pedal karts, gymnastics, driving range, horseback riding, 8,500-sq. ft. of pools, soccer & baseball fields, hockey, basketball, tennis courts, arts & music programs. Open house on Saturdays, from 12-3 PM, February 9th, March 16th, April 21st and May 18th.

ACA

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

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

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

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

NEW Camp Caribbean

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

Echo Hill Camp 13655 Bloomingneck Rd., Worton, MD 410-348-5303 info@echohillcamp.com 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 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.

Science Camp Watonka PO Box 127, Hawley, PA 570-857-1401 mail@watonka.com Watonka.com

RESIDENTIAL For boys 8-16. Camper-selected program includes hands-on laboratory experiences in astronomy, biology, chemistry, computers, electronics, earth science, physics & robotics. A wide range of other activities includes ropes, archery, climbing, woodworking, sailing, rocketry, mini-bike riding, sports, windsurfing & trips. 2-, 4-, 6- & 8-week sessions available. CIT SN

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

RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL No other marine science camp offers as many face-to-face encounters to closely observe and study whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and puffins in their own natural habitat. Board our research vessel for unmatched opportunities to observe marine life. Explore beaches, coastal trails and fishing villages on beautiful Grand Manan Island.

Ask about our $40,000 College Scholarships, STEM projects & College Credits.

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

RESIDENTIAL We welcome you to our 600 mountaintop acres in Berks County, PA. While we offer a variety of session lengths, most campers come for 2- or 4-week sessions. We are a coed program for campers 7-16 years old. Traditional camp programs including horseback riding, swimming, boating, athletics, target sports, mountain biking, creative arts, nature, adventure & teen leadership. We also offer a variety of specialty theme camps, adventure trips and international trips. We can’t wait to see you on the mountain! ACA

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

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Overnight camp for ages 11-18 at Eastern University, June 23-28, 2019. Classes include musical comedy, Shakespeare, improv, monologues, dance, characterization, auditions, showtunes. Air-conditioned dorms, good food, experienced staff of professional educators.

MERCER

OUTLYING AREAS

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

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

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CAMP

FEBRUARY 2019

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Child Care & Early Education Directory

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

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

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

BURLINGTON COUNTY

CAMDEN COUNTY (continued)

BEGINNINGS AT MFS: THE MOORESTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL Early Childhood Program, 110 E. Main St., Moorestown, NJ 856-914-4428 • MFriends.org Ages: 3 & up • Hours: 8:05am-3:10pm Beginnings at MFS: The Moorestown Friends School Early Childhood Program offers a values-based education for 3-year-olds and up. A project-based approach to learning and wide range of special subject areas are hallmarks of the experience. Moorestown Friends School is one of the only schools in the United States to offer a Coding Program to all Lower School students - Preschool through Grade 4. This innovative program has three strands: coding, problem solving and teamwork. These skills will be in high demand as the 21st century progresses.

Half-day and full-day Preschool is available. Prekindergarten and Kindergarten are full-day programs. AY, SP, BS, AS, MSCES

SOUTH JERSEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 406 Church Rd., Sicklerville, NJ • 856-728-2001 www.sjchristianacademy.org • Ages: PK - 7th Grade • Hours: 8:15am-3pm M-F South Jersey Christian Academy offers an affordable Christian education for students, Preschool through 7th Grade, in the South Jersey area. We educate today’s children to be tomorrow’s Christian leaders. AY, BS, AS

ESSENTIAL BEGINNINGS LEARNING CENTER 1329 Rte. 38, Hainsport, NJ 609-667-7838 • info@essentialbeginningslc.com Essentialbeginningslc.com • Ages: 2-1/2 yrs.-13 yrs.

Hours 6:30am - 6:00pm Essential Beginnings embraces the differentiation approach to teaching. This method ensures that all children can learn the content based on their learning style. FY, AY, SP, SN, DYF FUTURE SCHOLARS EARLY LEARNING CENTER 1351 Rte. 38 W., B-1, Hainesport, NJ 609-518-1333 • FutureScholarsLearning.com Ages: 6 wks.-13 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6:30pm “Where Generations Come and Grow” Full- and half-day classes available year round. Family-owned and operated with an owner on premises daily. Offering Infant & Toddler Care, PreSchool, Drop-In Hourly Daycare, Established Full-Day Kindergarten, Before- and After-School Care with bussing for township students, Private Tutoring and Summer Camp! We are your one-stop solution for early education and child care! STOP BY TODAY FOR A TOUR! FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DYF OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 32 W. Main St., Moorestown, NJ • 856-235-5371 • www.olgcnj.org/school Ages: 4 yrs.-6 yrs. • Hours: 8:30am-3pm • school@olgcnj.org Our Lady of Good Counsel School features full- and half-day pre-kindergarten programs, as well as full-day kindergarten. Children in first through eighth grades are educated in a top-notch, Catholic school environment, where our mission to form students in the image of Jesus Christ is reinforced daily. We provide education in music, art, specialized clubs, sports, after-school enrichment programs such as Lego Robotics and Latin, Spanish, technology, and physical education. Students do not need to be Catholic to attend our school.

Please call to arrange a tour. Financial aid and volunteer opportunities available. AY, SP, AS

CAMDEN COUNTY BEECHWOOD SCHOOL, PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN 441 Beechwood Ave., Haddonfield, NJ • 856-429-0303 • TheBeechwoodSchool.com • Ages: 2½ yrs.-K Preschool, Kindergarten, Childcare. Beechwood School is a family-owned, independent, statelicensed school since 1951. We offer both half-day and full-day classes year round for children 2½ through kindergarten. Call for a tour. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DYF PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF CHERRY HILL 1875 Rt. 70 East., Cherry Hill, NJ 8856-242-0034 • www.primrosecherryhill.com Ages: 6 wks.-Pre-K • Hours: 6:30am to 6:00pm Primrose Schools® is a national system of accredited private preschools that provides a premier early education and child care experience for children and families. Our Franchise Owners, Leadership Teams and School Staff partner with parents to help build the right foundation for future learning and in life. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, MP, DA, SN, NAEYC

SARI ISDANER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER AT THE KATZ JCC 1301 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ • 856-424-4444 • KatzJCC.org/ECE Ages: 6 wks.-K • Hours: 6:45am-6:15pm, M-Th; 6pm, F The Sari Isdaner Early Childhood Center at the Katz JCC is an award-winning program and leader in early childhood education. We offer full day infant/toddler care as of six weeks old, nursery school, preschool, full day certified Kindergarten, pre-K and transitional Kindergarten. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS*, DE, NAEYC SHINING LIGHTS PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE CENTER 1720 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ • 856-424-4915 www.shininglightsonline.org • Ages: 6 wks.-5 yrs. • Hours: 7:00am-6pm M-F Bible-based curriculum designed by our degreed director and certified teachers focuses on your child’s individual needs. Each classroom boasts hands-on exploration and discovery promoting learning centers. Small class sizes allow a variety of programs, which include: field trips, holiday shows, cooking projects and themed days. State-of-the-art security system and fenced-in playground. FY, AY, SP, DA, DYF

FEBRUARY 2019

GLOUCESTER COUNTY BUILDING BLOCKS CHILDCARE Applewood Dr., Logan Township • 856-975-6247 www.buildingblockscc.vpweb.com • Ages: 6 wks-12 yrs • Hours: 24 hours Building Blocks Childcare is a 24-hr. home care facility. We have daily age-appropriate activities.

We also go on local trips to the park and library, as well as field trips. We are very flexible and have rates from daily to rates that include overtime. We also accept Rutgers vouchers. Rutgers Resource and Referral. FY, MP, BS, AS, DA, TP, SN HOLDING HANDS FAMILY CHILD CARE & PLAY CENTER 138 Tomlin Station Rd., Mullica Hill, NJ • 856-467-6811 Ages: Infant-School Age • Hours: 6am-6:30pm A place for families providing exceptional care, engaged learning and everyday play.

A full-service center in a new facility with a gym, three playgrounds, access control system and video monitoring. FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS*

BUCKS COUNTY BRIGHT BEGINNERS ACADEMY 800 Clarmont Ave., Suite A, Bensalem, PA 19020 267-520-7200 • http://brightbeginnersacademy.com Ages: 6 wks.- 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

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Camp continued from p. 10

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

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

Questions parents should ask

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

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

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

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

MetroKids.com 13

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MomSpeak

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The MomSpeak Roundup

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

Win It!

We

Giveaways!

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

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

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

(Learning Resources; 2+; $19.99)

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

Brighten up your kid’s bedroom décor with OMG Accessories’ faux-fur pillows, featuring adorable designs that range from unicorns to kitties to rainbows. ($50)

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

14 MetroKids.com

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

Other prizes will be mailed by the provider to the address given on the entry form.

FEBRUARY 2019

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Family Fun

See if you can spot this highflying, nocturnal creature during hikes on Feb. 1, 8 & 24.

FEBRUARY

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event PNC Grow Up Great

9 Saturday

Valentine's event

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

1 Friday

In Search of Owls Hike at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. After an introductory presentation on owls and their calls, set out on a naturalist-led stroll to look for signs of the nocturnal raptors. $$

2 Saturday

Bright Star Children's Concert at the Hopewell Theater, Hopewell. Comedy duo Mabel and Lenny perform a modern take on Cinderella and Jack and the Beanstalk. $$$

Pirates of Penzance

10 Sunday

Groundhog Day Celebration at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. See “Fan of,” p. 16. $ Lunar New Year at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. Activities include calligraphy, martial arts and performances. $$$ Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. Check out more than 700 vehicles and enjoy performances and giveaways. $$$ Wassailing the Apple Trees at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. Partake in this ancient British tradition that aims to keep the trees from harm. There’ll also be singing, dancing and marshmallow roasting. FRE

“Witch Hazel” is Your Favorite?

16 Saturday

FEBRUARY 2019

Winter Survival Class at Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury. Learn about animals’ cold-weather survival strategies and make a shelter. $$

3 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Game Day at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Don your favorite team jersey to enjoy face painting and art games. FREE First Sunday Family Day: Breaking Boundaries at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Construct selfportraits from collage materials, make peace flags and buttons and design valentines. FREE Lunar New Year Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Visit the newly renovated Chinese art galleries and watch a dance performance. Pay what you wish Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$ Wildlife Tracking 101 at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. $$

4 Monday

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

5 Tuesday

Read and Explore: Animal Tracks at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. After the story, kids make birdfeeders. $$

mk smart. local. parenting.

MetroKids.com 15

FAN OF . . . SPRING

Whatever the outcome of Punxatawny Phil’s shadow sighting, families can appreciate winter and welcome spring during the Groundhog Day Celebration, Feb. 2 at the Watershed Institute in Pennington. Join “Wally” the woodchuck to learn about groundhogs, hike to a groundhog hole, play the “hibernation game,” warm up by a fire and and try your hand at chucking wood with a catapult or trebuchet.

6 Wednesday

Storytime: Valentine’s Day is Cool at All Fired Up!,Collingswood. Kids paint a heart-shaped handprint plate. $$$

7 Thursday

Storytime: Valentine’s Day is Cool at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See Feb. 6. $$$

8 Friday

Disco Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. Show off your disco gear and skate to ‘70s tunes. $$$ Family Date Night at Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach. Explore the aquarium, play in the arcade and enjoy dinner and treats. $$$$ In Search of Owls Hike at the Watershed Institute, Pennington.

See Feb. 1. $$ PJ Masquerade Ball at the Garden State Discovery Museum, Cherry Hill. Put on your pajamas to solve a mystery, catch the villain and celebrate with a dance party. $$$$

9 Saturday

Family Date Night at Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach. See Feb. 8. $$$$ Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$ PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE Second Saturday: Egyptian Adventures at the Penn Museum, Phila. Discover the world of ancient Egypt via gallery tours, a scavenger hunt and an art project. $$$ Storytime: Valentine’s Day is Cool at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See Feb. 6. $$$

10 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Painting and Text at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Explore how text and visuals can be combined to make a masterpiece. FREE Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See Feb. 2. $$$ Pirates of Penzance at McCarter Theatre, Princeton. This musical comedy is performed by the New York Gilbert and Sullivan Players. $$$$

14 Thursday

Sweetheart Skate at the Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. $$$ Valentine’s Day Weekend Activities at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. In addition to a scavenger hunt, ages 12 & younger get free admission when they bring a handmade valentine for a resident animal. $$

15 Friday

Winter Break Camp at Fernbrook Farms Environmental Education Center, Chesterfield. See “Kids’ Day Off,” p. 17. $$$$ Valentine’s Day Weekend Activities at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. See Feb. 14. $$

FAB FREEBIE

February is National Bird-feeding Month! Both birding enthusiasts and newbies can take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count at Cranbury’s Plainsboro Preserve, Feb. 16. Pay homage to your feathered friends by counting and identifying local species at feeding stations and building nesting boxes for spring. Families also make a “flying” bird craft, play identification games and learn fun facts about the high-flying creatures.

16 MetroKids.com

16 Saturday

Great Backyard Bird Count at Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury. See “Fab Freebie,” left. FREE The Cheer Movement Northeast Regional Championships at the Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood. $$ Valentine’s Day Weekend Activities at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. See Feb. 14. $$ “Witch Hazel” is Your Favorite? at Morris Arboretum, Phila.

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

FEBRUARY 2019

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Family Fun

17 Sunday

The Cheer Movement Northeast Regional Championships at the Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood. $$

Winter Break Camp at Fernbrook Farms Environmental Education Center, Chesterfield. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$

Read and Explore: Fur, Feathers and Fluff: Keeping Warm in Winter at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. See Feb. 19. $$

20 Wednesday

Storytime: Kitten’s First Full Moon at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See Feb. 20. $$$

Family Arts Academy: Collaboration at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Work in pairs and teams to create a collaborative painting. FREE

Storytime: Kitten’s First Full Moon at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Tots paint a picture of a cat. $$$

Valentine’s Day Weekend Activities at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. See Feb. 14. $$

Preschool Nature Class: Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. Celebrate the author’s birthday early with stories, a craft and outdoor fun. $$

18 Monday

21 Thursday

Winter Fairy Land at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. Don your most magical attire to play themed games, make fairy art, listen to stories and have outdoor playtime. $$

24 Sunday

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

Day-Off Adventures at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$

Storytime: Kitten’s First Full Moon at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See Feb. 20. $$$

Junior Keepers at Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach. Experience the aquarium from a keeper’s perspective. $$$$

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

Owl Prowl Hike at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. Meet a resident owl, then set out in search of local species. $$$

Winter Break Camp at Fernbrook Farms Environmental Education Center, Chesterfield. See “Kids’ Day Off,” below. $$$$

International Polar Bear Day at Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach.

Learn about the species and what you can do to help prevent extinction. $$$

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

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Read and Explore: Fur, Feathers and Fluff: Keeping Warm in Winter at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. After the tale, kids construct a paper-bag animal with wool and feathers. $$

23 Saturday

Mummers Mardi Gras Festival at 2300 Arena, Phila. This indoor-outdoor fest features string-band performances, family activities, food trucks, face painting and a Philly sports-themed auction. $$

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

KIDS’ DAY OFF

Looking for a way to keep the kids busy Presidents Day weekend while you’re at work? Sign them up for Winter Break Camp (Feb. 15, 18 & 19) at Chesterfield’s Fernbrook Farms Environmental Education Center, where they’ll construct birdfeeders, learn wilderness-survival skills and make maple syrup. Or send them to Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge’s Day-Of Adventures (Feb. 18) in Medford, featuring hikes, games, crafts and animal presentations.

FEBRUARY 2019

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Mom Matters

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

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

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

Ideas for escape weekends

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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breakfast in bed, catch up on movies.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Write your own promise to recite to your

What to do with the kids Family

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

Friend or Neighbor

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

Babysitter

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

Camp

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

Look for a camp that suits your kids’ interests.

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

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

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

Kim Blaker is a freelance writer.

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Family Fun

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

Find more venues at MetroKids.com/diversity.

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

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

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

Insider’s tip: Stop by on the second

Saturday of each month for family programming such as historical reenactments, storytelling and workshops.

American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila.

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

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

Asian Arts Initiative, Phila.

Indian Cultural Center of South Jersey, Marlton

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

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

Peter Mott House, Lawnside

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

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

PENNSYLVANIA African American Museum, Phila.

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

FEBRUARY 2019

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

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

National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila.

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

DELAWARE AND MARYLAND Chinese-American Community Center, Hockessin

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

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

New Castle Court House Museum, New Castle

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

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

Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore

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

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

Polish-American Cultural Center, Phila.

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

Insider’s tip: Short on time? No worries!

Visitors say this quaint space can be explored in under a half-hour.

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

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Joy and laughter are part of our curriculum.

Private Special Education … an Option You Should Know About!

Sometimes, it starts with a twinkle in the eye. Just a little spark of curiosity that soon blossoms into a journey of discovery, learning and achievement. That’s because at our private special education schools, we see beyond a child’s disability, and awaken the joy and creative expression within.

Our schools are welcoming places where students feel at home and are able to enjoy a rich and rewarding social life. Our students feel cherished, well cared for and respected for a very good reason—it is part of our mission and our commitment.

Students at our special education schools experience a school day as it should be—filled with discovery, achievement, learning and friendship. Here, they have people they know they can count on—outstanding teachers, therapists, counselors, psychologists and job coaches who constantly encourage and support them.

With individualized attention, on-site therapies and vocational training, our schools deliver unparalleled services for students with special needs. Our New Jersey Department of Education certified special education teachers, licensed therapists and counselors provide expert, advanced instruction and support … along with plenty of smiles.

These unique services are provided at NO COST for families.

Find out if private special education is the right fit for your child. Our staff can help answer your questions.

To find out more about what programs may be right for your child, call us at 1-800-697-8555 or visit SpecialEducationSchools.org

Brookfield Schools | HollyDELL School | Garfield Park Academy | Larc School | St. John of God Community Services Copyright ©2018 Coalition of Special Education Schools