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Shore Thing Beach Bargains Fight Summer Slide Books for the Road More Than 80 Events!

What Girl Athletes Should Know •

SUMMER

FUN! 72 Days of Giveaways & Prizes

Help Them Make Friends

GN19SE037[ad] SummerFest MetroKids Ad.ai

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5/21/19

11:03 AM

June 2019 Vol. 24, No. 6

Camp 2019 12 Camp Directory C

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In This Issue 3 Meet Our CoverKid 4 Great Summer Reads 6 Stressed Out Teens 8 Don’t Let Speech Delays Thwart Friendships 9 What Girl Athletes Should Know 10 Give Summer Slide the Slip 13 Summer Beach Bargains 15 Day-by-Day Calendar 18 Win It! Ad Sections

3 Events; 5 Education; 7 Health 11 Camps; 18 Child Care

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Meet Our CoverKid

JUNE 2019

Open April through December, Tuesday through Sunday

Discover

Photo by Bev Michel Photography.

Five-year-old Maggie C. of New Castle, DE is this month’s CoverKid and, as you can see, she’s pretty excited for summer.

That’s for good reason, mind you; one of her favorite things to do is go to the shore and ride a boat out to the sandbars.

She is just a sea-loving little girl, who counts crabs and sushi among her favorite foods (and, of course, pizza).

Still, every summer must end and her mom, Amy, says that Maggie is excited to start kindergarten in the fall. With autumn also comes the return of another football season, so Maggie can root for her beloved Eagles.

“She loves the Philadelphia Eagles,” says mom. “It was the theme of her fourth birthday party.”

Growing up is a long time off, but Maggie already has a career in mind, with a very adult logic.

“Maggie said when she grows up she wants to be a dentist,” mom says, “because they don’t work weekends.”

Already, she understands work-life balance!

Have fun at the beach this summer, Maggie. And good luck to you and the Eagles in the fall.

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Books

Summer Reading for All Ages The Horn Book’s 2019 Summer Reading List represents some of the best children’s books published this year. Below is one from each reading level.

To see the complete list, go to Metrokids.com/SummerReading.

Picture Books

The Little Guys

By Vera Brosgol (Roaring Brook) The “strongest guys in the whole forest” are the Little Guys — small pastel-colored creatures with acorn-cap hats and stick arms and legs. This presumed root-for-the-underdog story takes a humorously unexpected turn as close observation shows the Little Guys obnoxiously stealing from the other forest animals (“None for you! All for us!”). Brosgol’s jewel-toned mixed-media illustrations are imbued with humor both subtle and exaggerated, enhancing and extending the spare text.

Easy Readers and Primary

Detective Paw of the Law: The Case of Piggy’s Bank, The Case of the Stolen Drumsticks

By Dosh Archer (Whitman) In each of these lively beginning-chapter-book whodunits, Detective Paw, a Hercule Poirot–esque canine, and Patrol Officer Prickles, an action-oriented porcupine employing crime-fighting gadgets, follow the same procedural pattern to solve a robbery (Bank) and a band instrument theft (Drumsticks). Given the illustrations’ visual hints, young readers may well guess the straightforward outcomes, but in doing so they’re also working each case and learning that reading is an active process.

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Middle School

The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge

By M. T. Anderson; illus. by Eugene Yelchin (Candlewick) Historian and diplomat (and spy) Brangwain Spurge has been sent from Elfland to the neighboring goblin kingdom. He befriends his host, goblin archivist Werfel. Unbeknownst to them both, however, their nations are preparing for war. Pen-and-ink illustrations resembling medieval lithographs represent Spurge’s not-always-reliable spy reports; with touches of humor, whimsy, irony, and menace, they’re well suited to both the acerbic wit and the affecting tenderness of Anderson’s prose.

High School

With the Fire on High

By Elizabeth Acevedo (HarperTeen) High school senior Emoni Santiago, an aspiring chef, and her two-yearold daughter live with Emoni’s abuela (grandmother). Emoni signs up for a culinary arts class that culminates in a trip to Spain and she begins to see a path forward, if only she dares follow it. Acevedo (The Poet X) creates beautifully realized characters with complex lives. A few recipes (such as “When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemon Verbena Tembleque”) are interspersed.

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

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

Intermediate

Sweep: The Story of a Girl and Her Monster

By Jonathan Auxier (Amulet/Abrams) When child chimney sweep Nan Sparrow gets stuck in a flue and nearly dies, she is saved by a “soot golem.” Nan and the kind, gentle Charlie escape from her cruel master and make a home in an abandoned mansion.

Weaving together strands of Jewish folklore, Blake’s poetry, Frankenstein, child-labor reform, and magical realism, Auxier crafts a beautiful, hopeful story from the ugly realities of nineteenth-century British life.

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ADVERTISING SALES 888-890-4668 Jeanie Mudgett-McGeoch ext. 111

Erin Thompson ext. 120 Samantha Tuttle ext. 106

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

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

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

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Health

Some stress makes them resilient. Here’s how to help when it goes too far.

By Terri Akman Students today often find themselves on a virtual treadmill. They take the hardest courses and get involved with multiple extra-curricular activities and community-service projects in hopes they will improve their shot to get into the best school.

With final exams on the horizon, followed by a summer of college visits or enrichment classes to burnish their resumes, the pressure rises with the temperature.

The challenge for parents is to know when their children’s stress is healthy, when it is harmful, and how to help them manage their anxiety.

Parents can’t control all the external factors that stress their kids, but they can remove some irons from the fire.

“Parents can help their students narrow down their interests and really focus on what they enjoy,” says Beth Mikolajcyk, DeMasi Middle School counselor, in Evesham Township, NJ. “Don’t just add another class or activity without consideration for the child’s need for unstructured time.

“It’s okay to say no to an invitation to give your child some free time.”

Healthy stress

One of first things to recognize is that not all stress is bad.

“Particularly for kids and adolescents, a certain amount of early, challenging stressful experiences can help their bodies and minds become more resilient, particularly later in life,” says Jason Lewis, psychologist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and assistant psychologist for University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. “Stress operates the body’s alarm system that produces the fight,

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flight or freeze mechanism, so when our body’s feeling stress, it produces chemicals that can help brain communication, motivate us into action and help with memory, performance and the immune system.”

Parents need to teach a child how to cope with stress, says Mikolajcyk. “I want children to develop their own coping mechanisms for stress so that when they become adults they have ways to manage their stress level.”

It’s easy to feel as a parent that you want to swoop in and fix the problem.

Instead, validate their feelings, says Cami Winkelspecht, PhD, pediatric psychologist at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children. “Ask how you can best support them. Sometimes kids just want to talk about it.”

“I want children to develop their own coping mechanisms for stress so that when they become adults they have ways to manage their stress level.”

— Counselor Beth Mikolajcyk

Signs of excessive stress

Certain signs indicate the pressure has gone too far and parents need to intervene. Here’s what to look for: • More tired than usual • More headaches, stomachaches, colds or viral infections • More sad, anxious or annoyed • More nervous about assignments • A decline in grades • Avoidance of social events • Change in appetite, focus or concentration “Parents know their child best and what they would typically do in a situation,” says Winkelspecht. “If they see changes in what would be typical, those can be warning signs.”

How to help

Talk, Talk, Talk — Talk to them and then

talk some more, says Mikolajcyk. “Tell them about how you respond to stress and what coping methods you find successful,” she says. Explain your concern, says Winkelspecht. “Help them understand that you’ve seen some changes with how they usually act and that you’re worried about them,” she adds.

Show the Way — Remember that your

children always watch and model your behavior. “If the parents do a good job to cope with stress and are proactive to help themselves, it’s more likely for the teens to do it also,” says Lewis.

Get Physical — Encourage your child to

engage in physical activities. Especially for teenagers who tend to manage their stress with social media, video games or other sedentary activities, to get them physically active can make a big difference, says Lewis. Relaxation activities, including yoga or meditation, can also be helpful.

Be Social, Not Sleepy — Social interac-

tions and hobbies, even if they include a limited amount of social media or video games, can also be helpful. But make sure they don’t interfere with their sleep; getting enough sleep is vital.

Have the Drug Talk — It’s important to talk to your child about drugs during times of stress. “Lots of people will use substances to cope or manage stressors in their lives, whether it’s caffeine, drugs or alcohol,” says Lewis.

Seek Help — When there are severe or significant symptoms of depression, such as thoughts of suicide or self harm, like cutting, parents need to take action, says Lewis. That includes professional help through your child’s doctor, a mentalhealth professional or a crisis center.

Terri Akman is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

JUNE 2019

Great camps still

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Visit our

VIRTUAL Camp Fair

Dozens of great programs still accepting new campers for this summer. Browse by state and sign up before spaces run out!

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SpecialKids

Children with speech delays might find it hard to make friends.

Here’s how parents can help.

By Suzi Morales For children with speech delays, communication is an added challenge to making friends.

Amanda V., a Newark, DE mom whose son has a rare chromosomal abnormality and apraxia of speech, says she helped smooth the way when he was younger. For example, he loved to play tag and before a game started she would explain to the others how “he has a hard time talking but understands everything you say.”

Here are some other ways to help a child with special needs make friends.

Seek common interests

Encourage your child to find friends who enjoy the same things he does.

Trish Mayro, a speech language pathologist and clinical supervisor at the Speech Language Institute of Salus University in Elkins Park, PA, says programs where kids work on a “shared mission” can help children with speech delays interact with others. For instance, groups like Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts and karate lessons encourage social skills, with a leader that shows them what to do.

Consider a support group or camp for kids with similar challenges. Mayro recalls that her daughter, who has epilepsy, returned from a camp for kids with epilepsy with a new feeling of empowerment.

Support groups outside of school can also help a child know he’s not alone, says Eileen Kennedy-Moore, a Princeton area psychologist and author of books including Kid Confidence: Help Your Child Make Friends, Build Resilience, and Develop Real Self-Esteem.

However, it is important to remember that the child’s disability “is not the most interesting or important thing about” him or should not be the basis for all of his friendships.

Start with at-home play dates

Once your child identifies a classmate with a common interest, she can invite her for a one-on-one play date at your home. “Learn to practice things on your home turf,” says Mayro. “It’s a safe place.”

Have your child offer a choice of activities, Kennedy-Moore recommends, and be ready to step in with a snack or other distraction if things get awkward.

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Role play in advance

A child who has difficulties with communication might find it hard to respond when someone says something mean. Coach her to respond with a short word or phrase instead of trying to explain herself or be mean in return. Retorts like “so what” and “whatever” are classics for a reason. Or help her practice a nonsense response like “You’re such a niff-naff ” for a silly way to diffuse more difficult interactions.

Practice even friendly interactions in advance too. “A lot of conversation is pretty formulaic,” Kennedy-Moore notes. For example, a child can answer “How are you?” with “Great,” plus one fact.

Be proactive

Check with your child’s therapists and teachers through the year about how other students interact with him. Liz Lucas, clinical instructor at the Communication and Science Disorders Department of the University of Delaware, recommends speech therapists accompany the child to an art or gym class, where students more often engage socially.

Step back

Amanda’s son, now 11, recently attended his class banquet. Amanda went with him, but once he was comfortable, she stood back while he spent time with his friends. “I kind of let him do his own thing.”

Friendship is one of the few areas where children can have autonomy. Adults should “facilitate but not take over,” according to Kennedy-Moore. “Friendship belongs to children.”

Suzi Morales is a New Jersey freelance writer.

Summer Programs CAMP INTERAACTION, Devon, PA Campinteraaction.com Day camp run by speech pathologists for children 5–14 who use augmentative communication devices.

MISSION VOICE AAC STEM CAMP, Moorestown, NJ Missionvoice.org/aac-camp-2 STEM day camp for children who use speech-generating systems.

SCIENCE & LANGUAGE INTERVENTION SUMMER CAMP, Newark, DE Udel.edu and search “TELL lab summer camp” Preschool and kindergarten children take part in University of Delaware research study at camp that provides language intervention as part of classes.

For dozens more camps tailored for children with special needs, go to MetroKids.com/SpecialKidsCamps JUNE 2019

Sponsored

By Susan Stopper More girls participate in sports than ever, but amid the excitement of goals scored and records broken researchers have found that they are more vulnerable to certain injuries than boys.

1. More ACL Injuries

Research shows that female athletes suffer anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee injuries, on average, three to four times more often than males. These injuries can happen without contact and are common in sports where players cut and pivot, such as soccer, basketball and lacrosse.

Corinna Franklin, MD, pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Shriners Hospitals for Children, Philadelphia, and director of the hospital’s FIERCE (Female Initiative: Evaluation and Rehabilitation Care Excellence) program, explains that after puberty there are some anatomical differences in girls, such as weaker hamstrings, that affect how they land and put them at higher risk for an ACL injury.

“If girls strengthen their hamstrings and learn different landing techniques, it can help them lower the risk,” says Franklin.

2. A Triple Threat to Girls

In sports where their appearance or a lower body mass is a benefit, such as dance, distance running and gymnastics, girls may not eat enough to support their athletic exertion. This can lead not only to less energy but menstrual dysfunction and bone loss. This Female Athlete Triad, also known as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), is particularly risky for girls’ long-term musculoskeletal health, since they develop peak bone mass during their late teen years, explains Franklin.

Signs that a girl may not be getting enough nutrition to support her energy output include precipitous weight loss, decrease in performance, interruption of the menstrual cycle, anxiety and stress fractures. Working with a dietitian and doctor can help achieve the right nutrition and exercise balance.

That kind of cross-discipline approach is the hallmark of FIERCE, which has an all-female team of physical therapists, physician assistants, nurses, rehabilitation physician, orthopaedic surgeon, dietitian and biomedical engineer, who can evaluate patients’ range of motion.

JUNE 2019

3. Benefits Outweigh Risks

Despite these and other risks of injuries, the benefits of girls’ participation in sports far outweigh the risks. Regular physical activity lowers women’s risk for chronic illnesses — including heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s — and has positive effects on mental health, reports the Women’s Sports Foundation.

In addition, Franklin says, “Participation in sports builds girls’ strength, self-esteem, teamwork and leadership skills.”

If they know the risks and train to mitigate them, girls can have a positive experience.

If an injury does occur, prompt, appropriate treatment can minimize the setback.

Free Programs for Teams, Groups

To help girls avoid injury, FIERCE offers free educational programs for small groups and teams of female athletes ages 12 to 18.

They are held at the Philadelphia Shriners Hospital or at a location of the team’s choosing within 35 miles of the hospital. The programs can be tailored to the sport to include risk assessments, injury-prevention tips, nutrition and mental-health discussions.

When an injury does occur, the FIERCE team is not only equipped to get the athlete back on her feet, but does so as part of Shriners’ philosophy of accepting all families regardless of their insurance or resources.

“At Shriners Hospital, we treat everyone the same, regardless of their ability to pay,” says Franklin.

Because every girl deserves the chance to play.

Susan Stopper is a Pennsylvania-based freelance writer.

3551 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19140 215-430-4000 www.shrinersphilly.org

MetroKids.com 9

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Education

8 ways to keep your kids from unlearning this summer.

By Tanni Haas Do your kids seem a little less ready for school after each summer break? If so, don’t worry. They’re far from alone.

It’s a common experience known as the summer learning slide. Research shows that kids typically lose the equivalent of a month’s worth of learning during the summer break and it gets worse as they get older.

What can parents do to avoid the slide? Here are eight activities that have worked for my 15-year-old son, and I bet they’ll help your kids too.

Read books regularly

Since my son learned to read, we’ve had him read one fiction and one nonfiction book every other week to keep his reading and comprehension skills at grade level. It is summer after all, so instead of assigning him books, like he’s used to from school, we let him choose what to read.

My Vacation

Keep a vacation journal

We take at least one big family vacation every summer. Ever since my son was very young we’ve had him keep a daily journal to write about what we did that day. It’s been a great way to keep his writing skills up-to-date and document his childhood.

Email family and friends To strengthen my son’s writing skills, we also have him email family and friends, especially those we don’t get to see much.

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Teenagers prefer texts, but we insist on emails because, as every parent knows, texts are usually full of broken sentences, odd grammar and spelling mistakes.

likes quiz apps, which, like the board game Trivial Pursuit, aim to develop kids’ general knowledge.

Visit museums

Museum visits are a great way to acquaint your kids with the arts, history and natural science. Even a visit to your town’s museum to learn about its history can be surprisingly fun. (To find museums near you, go to MetroKids.com/PlacestoVisit.)

Play (smart) board games

In the evening, whether on vacation or at home, we play math games like Monopoly or spelling games like Scrabble.

The key is to focus on the fun part — the competition — rather what they can learn. If you do that, the lessons happen automatically.

Watch (quality) movies

Aside from a board game or two, we also watch movies in the evening. With all the streaming services available, it’s not hard to find a documentary or feature film, which also happens to be educational.

Movies are fun ways to learn about other time periods, cultures and current events.

Educational apps

Although we try to make our son’s summer activities as social as possible, we also indulge his interest in anything technological and allow him to download all the educational apps he wants. He really

Take nature trips

We try to spend as much time as possible outdoors in the summer.

One of the most educational and fun things you can do with your kids is to go into nature and learn about the animal life. Try the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove in Aububon, PA, which has 175 acres with birding and hiking trails, including the new Fledgling Trail for kids. A new museum opens this month with hands-on exhibits. (To find nature centers near you, go to MetroKids.com/ Nature.)

Tanni Haas, PhD, is a professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

JUNE 2019

FIND US continued from p. 9

ONLINE Topics • To Do • Connect

MetroKids.com Are You Looking CONTACT US! for Child Care in Camden County?

The Department of Children’s Services is here to assist you with: 

Child Care Referrals and Options.

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Selecting a quality child care program that meets the needs of your family.

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Finding programs that can help pay for child care!

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Child Care Subsidy for eligible parents.

Board of Freeholders

JUNE 2019

Camden County

Department of Children’s Services 856.374.6376 children@camdencounty.com MetroKids.com 11

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Camp Directory

GLOUCESTER

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: 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.

ESF Summer Camps William Allen Middle School 801 N. Stanwick Rd., Moorestown NJ 08057 Info@esfcamps.com esfcamps.com

DAY ESF’s award-winning traditional, sports and specialty camps for ages 3-15, combine Education, Sports & Fun and offer 60+ activities for every interest. Join us for an Open House. Enroll online today!

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, ACA CIT SN compassion and kindness.

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 ACA Burlington and Camden.

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

DAY 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.

CAMDEN COUNTY

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 SN experience.

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.

Studio Brilliante 125 Veterans Ln., Haddonfieldstudiobrilliante.com/summercamp.html

DAY Brand new to instruments? Try our Rhythm Explorers or Intro to Instruments day camps! Have a little experience?

Sign up for a week-long intensive! Spend time in group music lessons, games, and explore the musical world! K-12th Grade.

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.

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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 Saturday, May 18th from 12-3 PM. ACA

Tomato Patch @ Kelsey Theatre 1200 Old Trenton Rd. West Windsor 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

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 iD Tech Held at 150 Prestigious Campus Locations 1-888-709-8324 iDTech.com

DAY iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 400,000 alumni since 1999. Summer programs for ages 7-19 are held at 150 prestigious campuses including Stanford, NYU, HKU, and Imperial College London. Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics, and design. Visit iDTech.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

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Family Fun

Keep the kids and your wallet happy during your family’s beach vacation with this guide to free fun and great deals. Whether you plan to stay for a day or the week, there are plenty of low-cost ways to enjoy the trip.

Atlantic City

Margate

FREQUENT FREEBIES

FREQUENT FREEBIES

Free beach access all summer

Thrilling Thursdays No beach tags required! Sidewalk sales, farmers’ market and movies on the beach.

July & Aug., 8:30pm. Huntington Ave. & the beach.

Wednesday through Sunday 3D Light Show. Runs every half-hour after sunset. Boardwalk Hall.

HOTSPOTS

HOTSPOTS

Steel Pier

Lucy the Elephant

The centerpiece of this boardwalk theme park is the 227-foot-tall Ferris wheel — the steepest in the state. Cost cutter: Twoticket Tuesdays are in effect 1-6pm, starting June 18.

Thunder Over the Boardwalk

This year’s free airshow is Aug. 21, featuring demonstrations and a high-speed boat-vs.-airplane showdown.

Infants and toddlers strut their stuff Aug. 8 on the boardwalk during one of the longest-running events of its kind in the country.

Visit the town’s mascot, a 65-foot-tall wooden structure complete with a quaint gift shop. You can tour inside Lucy for a fee.

Beachstock 2019

Party on the beach for free June 29, and enjoy live music and entertainment, treasure hunt, face painting and hula lessons.

Ocean City FREQUENT FREEBIES Tuesdays Entertainment, face painting and balloon art. July & Aug., 10am. Asbury Ave. Wacky Wednesdays Activities differ weekly and include French fry sculpting and a donut-on-a-string eating contest. July & Aug, 10:30am. Music Pier, Moorlyn Terrace & the boardwalk.

Thursdays Family-oriented boardwalk entertainment.

July & Aug., 7:30pm. 6-14th Sts.

JUNE 2019

HOTSPOTS Baby Parade

Sandcastle Park

Perfect for pre- or post-beach playtime, the expansive playground is equipped with rubberized flooring, equipment made of recycled plastic, shaded areas and bathrooms.

Sea Isle City FREQUENT FREEBIES Mondays & Fridays Movies Under the Stars; July & Aug., 8:15pm; Excursion Park.

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Family Fun

Tuesdays Family Dance Parties; July & Aug. (excluding Aug. 6), 7:30pm; Excursion Park.

HOTSPOTS Skimmer Festival

Enjoy live music, family activities, a craft market and tours June 15. JFK Blvd. & Pleasant Ave. and Excursion Park..

Sara the Turtle Festival

On June 26, discover turtles’ role in the environment with nature displays, activities and entertainment. Excursion Park.

Wildwoods FREQUENT FREEBIES Free beach access all summer

Wildwoods Convention Center

Rehoboth Beach

Thursdays & Saturdays Movies Under the Stars. July & Aug, 8pm; Lou Booth Amphitheater, North Wildwood.

Bethany Beach

Free beach access all summer

HOTSPOTS

Free beach access all summer

Morey’s Piers

Mondays Movies on the Beach. June 17-Aug. 19, dusk. Garfield Pkwy.

Sundays Fox Park Concert Series. June 23-Aug. 25, 7:30pm. Fox Park Amphitheater, Wildwood.

This Wildwood boardwalk staple boasts amusement rides and two waterparks.

New this year, the Runaway Tram family coaster pays tribute to the town’s tramcar and the park’s 50th anniversary.

Also on the Wildwood boardwalk, this venue plays host to a slew of sporting events and all-ages festivals, many of which are free.

FREQUENT FREEBIES

HOTSPOTS Bethany Beach Nature Center

Open year-round, the center features walking trails, exhibits and activities that highlight the area’s inland bays and wetlands.

FREQUENT FREEBIES Friday through Sunday Concerts. June 14-end of Aug., 8pm.

Rehoboth Beach Bandstand.

HOTSPOTS Delaware Seashore State Park

Bike, boat, crab, fish, swim or hike at the 2,825-acre park.

Jungle Jim’s

The state’s biggest waterpark offers splashy faves like the Lazy River, waterslides and wave pools. Cost cutter: Take advantage of discounted admission after 3pm.

Captain Jack’s Pirate Golf

With sand traps, water holes and secret pathways, this not-too-challenging mini-golf course lives up to its name. Cost cutter: Ages 2 and younger are free with a paying adult.

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

FIND MORE ONLINE Outdoor Adventures • Indoor Fun • Teen Events

Arts & Performances • Free Admission • Special Needs

MetroKids.com/Calendar 14 MetroKids.com

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JUNE 2019

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Family Fun

Spend National Get Outdoors Day at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, June 8.

JUNE

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event South Jersey Arts Fest

June 1 & 2

Editor's Pick

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

1 Saturday

Access to Science: Opening Doors to Autism at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Kids on the autism spectrum and their families explore the venue before it opens to the public. $$$ Fete Day at Elfreth’s Alley, Phila. Visit residential homes on the country’s oldest street, take an 18th-century family photo and try period crafts. $$$$ New Jersey Renaissance Faire at Liberty Lake, Bordentown. Sword fighting, fire breathing, comedy and aerialists are all part of the historical entertainment. $$$$

Organ Day

June 15

South Jersey Arts Fest at Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, Elmer. Young creators display their talents in the visual and performing arts. $$$$ Storytime: A Perfect Father’s Day at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids paint a handprint mug. $$$

2 Sunday

First Sunday Family Day: Summer Solstice at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Make themed cutouts and collages, as well as paper flowers, watercolor paintings and seed bombs for guerilla gardening. FREE

Fantasy Faire

June 22 & 23 JUNE 2019

New Jersey Renaissance Faire at Liberty Lake, Bordentown. See June 1. $$$$

South Jersey Arts Fest at Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, Elmer. See June 1. $$$$

4 Tuesday

Read and Pick: Strawberries at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. Following storytime, pick a container of the fruit to take home. $$

7 Friday

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$$

8 Saturday

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$$ Breakfast with Butterflies at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. See butterflies up-close, watch an improv performance and make a butterfly hat. $$$$ Girl Scout Day at the Franklin Institute, Phila.

Kids focus on the science behind superheroes and the museum’s Marvel exhibit. $$$$ Strawberry Surprise Festival at the Camden Children’s Garden, Camden. Celebrate mascot Mum Bear’s birthday with fruity crafts and activities. $$ West Park Arts Fest at West Fairmount Park, Phila. Local dancers, musicians and vocalists put on multicultural performances for all ages. FREE

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

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Stripes and Stars Festival at venues throughout Independence National Historical Park, Phila. Celebrate Flag Day with flag-folding demos, a parade and a naturalization ceremony. $ Wizard World Comic Con at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See June 13. $$$$

15 Saturday

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$$ Airplane Day at Fort Mifflin, Phila. Junior pilots discover why the site is so close to the airport and engage in high-flying fun. $$ Donuts with Dad at the Glassboro Library, Glassboro. See “Town & County,” p. 17. FREE Donuts with Dad at the Logan Twp. Library, Swedesboro. See “Town & County,” p. 17. FREE

DO GOOD, HAVE FUN

Step up to the plate and help strike out ALS during the Phillies Phestival, June 13 at Citizens Bank Park. Fans meet players, score autographs, play games, snag a goodie bag stocked with signed baseballs and caps, and attend a silent auction.

9 Sunday

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$$ Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns and Mermaids Exhibit Closing Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. $$$$ National Get Outdoors Day at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. Complete a scavenger hunt on the trails and turn it in for a prize. $$

Downtown Wildwood Seafood and Wine Festival at Byrne Plaza, Wildwood. FREE Full Moon Hike at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. $$ Juneteenth Festival at the Johnson House Historic Site, Phila.

Celebrate the passage of the 13th amendment with a freedom walk and parade, a panel discussion on social issues, historical reenactments, exhibits and a marketplace. FREE Military Timeline Weekend at Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. Learn about the weaponry and tactics used in the Civil War and WWII via encampments, displays and demos. $$ Organ Day at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila.

The famous Fred J. Cooper Memorial Organ is the focus of this event that features performances and tours of the country’s largest mechanical organ in a concert venue. FREE Storytime: Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See June 12. $$$$

Odunde Festival at 23rd & South Sts., Phila. The country’s largest African-American street festival stretches to the Schuylkill River and features a marketplace, entertainment and music. FREE

Wizard World Comic Con at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. See June 13. $$$$

Strawberry Surprise Festival at the Camden Children’s Garden, Camden. See June 8. $$

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$$

12 Wednesday

Storytime: Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids paint a picture of a cat. $$$$

13 Thursday

16 Sunday

Father’s Day Celebration at Morey’s Piers, Wildwood. See “Town & County,” p. 17. $$$$ Father’s Day Climb at Absecon Lighthouse, Atlantic City. See "Town & County," p. 17. $$

Phillies Phestival at Citizens Bank Park, Phila. See “Do Good, Have Fun,” above. $$$$

Fife and Drum Corp. performs at Historic Smithville & Village Greene, Smithville. FREE

Storytime: Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See June 12. $$$$

Military Timeline Weekend at Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. See June 15. $$

Wizard World Comic Con at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. Come dressed in your cosplay best to take part in contests, meet actors and artists and celebrate favorite fandoms, comics and games. $$$$

By the Light of the Moon Climb at Absecon Lighthouse, Atlantic City. $$

14 Friday

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$$ Car Cruise at Historic Smithville & Village Greene, Smithville. FREE

16 MetroKids.com

17 Monday

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

18 Tuesday

Read and Pick: Cherries at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. Following storytime, pick a container of the fruit to take home. $$

JUNE 2019

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Family Fun

20 Thursday

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson at the Funplex, Mt. Laurel. Dive into a course on the basics of swimming and drowning prevention, then hit the waterpark. FREE

21 Friday

Assault on Patcong Creek in Somers Point.

After the crabbing tournament in which families compete in the Largest Crab Contest, stick around for a barbecue with the day’s catch as the main course. FREE Italian-American Festival at 1st & Olde New Jersey Aves., North Wildwood. Enjoy food and merchandise vendors, grape stomping, the Little Miss Italy contest, raffles and live entertainment. FREE Macbeth at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$

22 Saturday

Assault on Patcong Creek in Somers Point. See June 21. FREE Cape May Hops Festival at the Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May. Barbecue meets live music and beer during this family-friendly event. FREE Dino Day Festival at the Camden Children’s Garden, Camden. Activities include crafts, train rides, a carousel and butterfly house tours.

Come in a dinosaur costume to receive discounted admission. $$

Italian-American Festival at 1st & Olde New Jersey Aves., North Wildwood. See June 21. FREE Macbeth at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$ Totally Turtles Weekend at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Phila. See June 22. $$$

25 Tuesday

Read and Pick: Monarchs, Swallowtails and Honeybees at Terhune Orchards, Princeton.

Make a butterfly craft after storytime. $$

26 Wednesday

Storytime: Should I Share My Ice Cream? at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids paint an ice-cream bowl. $$$

27 Thursday

Storytime: Should I Share My Ice Cream? at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See June 26. $$$

28 Friday

Car Cruise at Historic Smithville & Village Greene, Smithville. FREE Dinos After Dark at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Take advantage of extended hours to encounter animal presentations, activities and, for adults, a beer garden. Pay what you wish Macbeth at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$

29 Saturday

Fantasy Faire at WheatonArts, Millville. Journey to medieval times with costumed historical characters, dancing, drumming, storytellers, sword and archery demos and pirate games. $$

Family Fun Concert: Steve Pullara at the Hopewell Theater, Hopewell. $$$

Fine Art and Craft Fair at Dilworth Park, Phila.

FREE

South Jersey Wine and Music Festival at Unexpected Farm, Newfield. $$$$

Italian-American Festival at 1st & Olde New Jersey Aves., North Wildwood. See June 21. FREE

Storytime: Should I Share My Ice Cream? at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See June 26. $$$

Macbeth at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$ Midsommarfest at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila. Kick off summer like the Swedish with maypole dancing, homemade pastries, music, crafts and games. $$$ Seafood and Music Festival at the Tuckerton Seaport and Baymen’s Museum, Tuckerton. $$ Totally Turtles Weekend at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Learn about turtles, tortoises and terrapins via crafts, demos and touchable specimens. $$$

23 Sunday

Dino Day Festival at the Camden Children’s Garden, Camden. See June 22. $$ Fantasy Faire at WheatonArts, Millville. See June 22. $$ Firefly Festival at Terhune Orchards, Princeton.

See “Fab Freebie,” right. FREE

JUNE 2019

TOWN & COUNTY: FATHER'S DAY

Macbeth at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$

Dads are our biggest fans.

Show him your appreciation with family events throughout Father’s Day weekend, June 15 & 16.

ATLANTIC COUNTY Got plans in Atlantic City on June 16? Stop by Absecon Lighthouse for fresh air, fantastic views and a Father’s Day Climb, free for dads.

CAPE MAY COUNTY Enjoy rides, beachy fun and free attractions for the big guy at Wildwood’s Father’s Day Celebration at Morey’s Piers, June 16.

GLOUCESTER COUNTY Life gets busy, so bond over food and conversation during Donuts with Dad, June 15 at the Glassboro Library and the Logan Twp. Library in Swedesboro.

30 Sunday

Macbeth at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. $$$ Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival Closing Day at Franklin Square, Phila. $$$$ South Jersey Wine and Music Festival at Unexpected Farm, Newfield. $$$$

Happy Father’s Day

FAB FREEBIE

Spend the evening among family, friends and fireflies during the Firefly Festival, June 23 at Terhune Orchards in Princeton. As the sun sets, hunt for the kid-favorite lightning bugs while enjoying a slew of activities, including wagon and pony rides, face painting, make-your-own wings and antennas, and hands-on circus workshops where you learn to juggle, spin a plate, balance feathers and walk a tight wire.

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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

GLOUCESTER COUNTY

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

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

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 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

18 MetroKids.com

BUCKS COUNTY BRIGHT BEGINNERS ACADEMY 800 Clarmont Ave., Suite A, Bensalem, PA 19020 267-520-7200 • 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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Win It!

Day Out With Thomas makes a stop at the Strasburg Rail Road in Ronks, PA this month, and you can hop aboard with a family 4-pack to the12:45pm train ride on June 26! The winner will be selected one week prior to the event. ($84) With all the free time summer brings, you’ll need new ways to keep the kids busy. Boost their problem-solving skills with Exit: The Forbidden Castle. Featuring all the intensity of an escape room, the board game calls on players to solve a series of riddles and puzzles that lead to freedom. (Thames & Kosmos;10+; $14.95) Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning June 1. Prizes will be mailed by the provider to the address given on the entry form.

SUMMER

FUN! MetroKids.com/summerfun Also check out our Summer Fun promo to win funtastic toys and prizes every day starting June 18th!

72 DAYS OF

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

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*

JUNE 2019

Make This the BEST Summer Yet!

’ Summer Fun promotion helps bring families together with free events, special deals to local venues, tickets to top regional attractions and even trips!

Check back every day for your chance to win great prizes!

FEATURED PRIZE

Connect, like, follow us and subscribe for frequent updates

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We believe in encouraging our students to express themselves.

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