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December 2018 • free South Jersey

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Charter Schools and LD MetroKids.com

Contents

DECEMBER 2018 • Vol. 23, No. 12

In This Issue 4 A Pro’s Hand-Washing Tips 5 Pop-Up Books 6 Read Local 8 Don’t Fear the Cheer 9 Win It! 10 Charter Schools and LD 11 Welcome to Cyber School 12 Toy Test 2018 18 Meet Our CoverKid Family Fun 13 Sights of the Season 14 Day-by-Day Calendar 16 Holiday Performances Ad Sections 7 Performances; 9 Health; 18 Child Care

On Our Cover

CoverKids winner Anina F. of Aston, PA.

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Photos by Bev Michel Photography — West Chester, PA; Michelphoto.com

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Quality Counts

Rooted in Tradition, Progressive Early Learning Infant & Toddler Programs Flexible Preschool Programs Pre-Kindergarten Transitional Kindergarten

Creative Curriculum® STEAM Curriculum Jewish Values & Traditions Swim Lessons, Gym, Music & Art Tadpoles: Daily Digital Parent Reports

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Moms Know

A Pro’s Guide to Hand Washing

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

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

By Katie Lockwood Each fall I teach my children’s preschool a lesson on hand hygiene. Quite intentionally I plan this for the start of flu season, hoping to minimize the spread of illnesses around our classroom.

Without fail, my children are always embarrassingly bad when judged on the thoroughness of their hand washing, which always gets laughs from the audience.

In terms of things that I teach children, hand washing may be one of the most important. In my preschool lesson I use a fluorescent hand gel called Glo-Germ and a blacklight flashlight to simulate how well they wash their hands and the “germs” that are left behind from poor technique.

I also teach them to cover their cough by sneezing or coughing into their elbows or cough pocket instead of their hands.

The kids love these visuals and proudly tell me whenever I’m in the classroom about how they used their cough pocket.

The other parents often tell me that their kids become more vigilant hand washers and monitors at home.

Beyond my love of visiting my children’s classroom, the CDC says that teaching people in the community about hand washing reduces diarrhea and respiratory illnesses. Some studies have shown a 16–21 percent reduction in respiratory illnesses, such as colds, in the general population after hand-washing education. It also reduces absenteeism due to gastrointestinal illness in school children by 29–57 percent.

While we all know when and how we should wash our hands, it is also a skill that we can be lazy about and reminders about technique can help keep us healthier.

So make sure you wash your hands well this season or else a local preschooler may give you a lecture on hygiene.

Katie Lockwood, MD, is a mother and pediatrician in Philadelphia and a contributor to MetroKids’ MomSpeak through her Mommy Call blog. Opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of her employer.

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Tips for Germ-free Hands

1. Make sure you lather your hands in soap and don’t forget under your nails and around your wrists.

2. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, which is two Happy Birthday songs.

3. Antibacterial hand soap is not necessary and plain soap works well.

4. When soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol.

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: Matthew Brooks, Ben Lowenthal

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

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DECEMBER 2018

Books

POP Ups! Books that take the story to another dimension.

By Frank Lipsius Is it possible that adults buy pop-up books for themselves and use kids as an excuse? Certain subjects with an appeal to adults make it seem obvious.

There is no heinous crime in that, but as the genre matures and competes with other forms of literature and eye candy, the dual audiences come into sharper focus.

Yellow Submarine

By The Beatles, Illustrated by Heinz Edelmann Candlewick Press • $8.99 • K–12th grade Take The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine, a 50th-anniversary production that can only be aimed at those who have a history with The Beatles (who?), the song, the movie and Ringo (best known now as half of the surviving half ). This is less a pop up than a long railway train of a book, scene after scene, with some relief raising the page for the Blue Meanies, a Sgt. Pepper musician, and of course the submarine, with each of the Beatles profiled in relief on the other side. Now this is a pop up where the grandparents have a story to share about that group, the long hair, the breakthrough Sgt. Pepper concept album, and the few songs, like “Yellow Submarine,” (and “Octopus’s Garden”) entrusted to Ringo to sing.

Ten Horse Farm

By Robert Sabuda Candlewick Press • $29.99 Preschool–2nd grade The grand old man (however old he is) of pop-up books, Robert Sabuda, returns this season with Ten Horse Farm, a familiarly spectacular series of 10 farm scenes, each featuring a horse in one of its modes — racing, kicking, resting, pulling and grazing — culminating in nearly a foot-high horse jumping and another foot-high copse of trees for drinking. As usual, Sabuda defies gravity with the height of his creations but also reflects horses’ own defiance of gravity by balancing such bulk on such slim leg and foot supports. It is a perfect combination that takes Sabuda far from narration but close to the pure creation at which he excels.

Dinosaur Created by Dan Kainen, Written by Kathy Wollard Workman • $25.95 • No ages specified Dan Kainen has created a wrinkle on the pop-up book that moves not from lifting off the page but from a thin-ridged series of images that give the appearance of considerable

DECEMBER 2018

movement, like opening impressive jaws, and running, eating and playing or fighting. The hard cardboard books resist tampering, though a kid may well want to inspect what’s behind the moving image.

Kathy Wollard’s story starts with an introduction to the world the dinosaurs inhabited and their descendants that exist today, like birds and crocodiles. The story is short and comprehensive before the book turns to each kind of dinosaur that is depicted, including T. Rex and Sauroposeidon, a dinosaur discovered only in 1994 and deemed to be the tallest, if not the largest. The Sauroposeidon was 60 tons, and the largest elephants today would come up only to their knees.

The combination of sophisticated imagery and up-to-date information make the book highly suitable for students looking to go beyond classroom facts and fill out for themselves the picture of dinosaurs.

Hello New York!

Hello Paris!

By Christopher Francheschelli and Geraldine Cosneau Abrams Appleseed • $12.99 each • 2–4 years Opening with the binding on the short side, these distinctive guides use simple drawings and sophisticated information to give an overview of each of the cities that provide an idea of what to look for and what to find in the big city. The first image places the major buildings on a schematic map, followed by street scenes that bring the city down to personal size. There is enough information for a kid to be sure the family will not miss any major site.

Eye Spy

By Guillaume Duprat What On Earth Books • $21.99 • 6–12 years Now here is something unique. The author uses the simplest of forms, the flap, to explore what each animal sees based on its visual capabilities and physical attributes. Many animals see only in two colors, while human beings see in three.

This makes the difference between a Technicolor world and a drab view of one’s surroundings. Anyone who reads this book will understand more about what other creatures are capable of seeing and better appreciate the amazing capabilities of the human eye.

Frank Lipsius is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

See our ongoing kids’ book coverage at MetroKids.com/books.

MetroKids.com 5

MK Memo

Read Local Authors, illustrators and topics with ties to the Delaware Valley You can eat local. You can drink local. Can you read local? Sure.

In the last year, we’ve come across several authors, illustrators and books that have a connection to our area. So as you shop for gifts for young readers this holiday season, here are some hometown options.

Hello, Universe Erin Entrada Kelly, a professor of children’s literature at Rosemont College in Bryn Mawr, PA, won a Newbery Medal this year for her book about a shy boy who gets stuck in a well.

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My Cousin Momo Narberth, PA illustrator and author Zachariah OHora’s book was the Pennsylvania One Book selection last summer. Young readers heard it read aloud at libraries across the state.

A Promise Stitched in Time Cherry Hill, NJ author and illustrator Colleen Rowan Kosinski published her debut novel this year about a girl who tries to find out what a vintage, possibly haunted, coat wants to tell her.

Knights Vs. Dinosaurs Ardmore, PA author, illustrator and graphic novelist Matt Phelan’s first chapter book is a heavily illustrated tale described as “Monty Python for young middle-school readers.”

Where is Robin? Philadelphia This charmingly illustrated tour of the city from a robin’s eye view is part of a series by author Robin Barone that includes kid guides to New York, LA, London, Paris and others.

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Peanuts © 2018 Peanuts Worldwide LLC. PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc.

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Secret Philadelphia South Philly native Mary Dixon Lebeau explores dozens of lesser known, often oddly appealing landmarks in the city. Written for adults, it’s easily accessible for middle-school readers and a great resource for family trips.

P is for Philadelphia This 2018 reissue from Susan Korman of Yardley, PA, is an alphabetic tour of the city and region with 54 illustrations from local children.

Entries include “C is for Cheese Steaks” and “V is for Valley Forge.”

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Health

Don’t Fear the Cheer 6 ways to trim holiday stress

By Michele Haddon The holiday season is supposed to be filled with hope, love and joy. But for many families, it can be marred by feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.

Before you hide under the covers until January, here are ways to handle holiday stress.

Let go of expectations

“Most of the stress and chaos of the holidays is due to this unrealistic expectation that things will be perfect.” says Sarah Robins, a clinical social worker in Wilmington, DE. “The reality is that no family is perfect and that all families have difficulties.”

Rather than think about what has gone wrong or what you can’t afford, focus instead on gratitude, compassion and giving back to the community, she suggests.

Set conflicts aside

Families that come together over the holidays can often bring unresolved issues to the surface, says Dr. Jacqueline Hudak, clinical director at the Center for Couples and Adult Families at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, who tells her clients to set aside those conflicts and focus on simply being together.

“You’re not going to sit around the dinner table and resolve your family’s issues, that’s not the time to do it,” she says. “Even if that means you keep the visit short or you go in the morning when there isn’t alcohol served.”

Have strategies in place

“It is rare that families will get together for an extended time and not have some arguments or con-

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flict,” Robins says. “Plan how you want to manage the conflict.”

Talk with your partner about the topics that could lead to tension and work out some strategies together.

“Have a friend you can call. Step outside for some fresh air or go for a walk,” Hudak suggests.

For those struggling with addiction or other difficulties that could trigger conflict, Robins says to put your support network on notice.

“Reach out to your supports ahead of time — whether that be AA, NA, friends, co-workers, family members — and remind them how difficult the holidays are for you,” she says. “Notice when you start to struggle and need to ask for additional support.”

It’s OK to say ‘no’

Christine DiPilla, a mom of four in Doylestown PA, says she scaled back saying “yes” to everything.

“I gave myself permission to opt out of anything that feels more like an obligation than something that brings me joy. And I told myself that I don’t have to be at all the places and buy all the things for everyone,” DiPilla says. “Also, I’ve scaled back on gift giving for our four kids.

“Between us and their grandparents, they often got so much that they never really played with anything. We have been moving more towards experiences rather than things and instead get one ‘big’ family gift.”

Madeleine DiLeonardo D’Amato, a psychotherapist in Collingswood NJ, says you need to seek balance when there are so many demands for your time during December.

“Saying no to things is a great way to do that,” DiLeonardo D’Amato explains. “If you’re in a good place mentally and emotionally, you’ll be able to enjoy quality time with friends and family.”

Take breaks

With endless to-do lists, it’s easy to forget to slow down.

“Remind yourself that it is okay if everything does not get done,” says Robins. “This is an overwhelming time for everyone and the most important thing is that you take breaks when you need them.”

Schedule downtime, urges DiLeonardo D’Amato.

“We put all of the holiday parties into our calendars with no problem, but is there any space specifically blocked off for downtime?” she asks. “There should be. Block off this time, be intentional about rest and rejuvenation, and treat it with the same prioritization as other aspects of the holidays.”

Make time to grieve a loved one

If someone close to you died recently, the holidays can be extra difficult. Hudak says a ritual helped her deal with her loss.

“It was very hard for me not to have my parents on Christmas Eve when my kids were young and so I used to take time for myself that day and go to the cemetery and have that time of grief,” Hudak says.

Robins says to incorporate the loved one into the holiday celebration in some way.

“Talk about the loss, feel the sadness, experience the grief. Find ways to focus on positive memories of the loved one and remind yourself that it’s okay and normal to experience the sadness and grief.”

Michele Haddon is a Doylestown-based freelance writer.

DECEMBER 2018

12 Win It!

DAYS Gifts of

MK’s annual 12 Days of Gifts giveaway is back and better than ever! We’re celebrating the holidays by giving away two prizes daily from Dec. 3-14. Log on to MetroKids.com/12days to enter to win one of these prizes.

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12 Days winners must pick up their prizes by Dec. 21 at the MetroKids office, during regular business hours.

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Skip the usual toys and give a gift that will last a lifetime, create fun experiences, bring out their potential and teach them life skills. A gift that will create lasting memories for the entire family.

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SpecialKids

Charter Schools and LD Students All provide special-needs services, but approaches vary

By Terri Akman If your child has a learning difference, a charter school, like a traditional public school, is required to offer special-education services. However, each charter school also has its own learning methods and specialties, which might make it an ideal choice.

“Charter schools have the exact same rules as any public school district and are not allowed to ask for information around special-education status prior to admission,” says Harry Lee, interim president at the NJ Charter School Association.

In New Jersey, students apply through a lottery system and only after a student is enrolled does the family share the child’s special-education status.

The same is true in 21 of Delaware’s 23 charter schools. The Gateway Lab School and Positive Outcomes schools are geared toward and give preference to children with learning differences. Some of Pennsylvania’s 87 charter schools use a lottery; others are first come, first served.

After admission, staff reviews the student’s Special Education Evaluation Report and Individualized Education Program (IEP), says Rae Oglesby, deputy chief of communications of the 24 Mastery charter schools in Philadelphia and Camden, NJ, which serve about 14,000 K-12 students. “We partner with parents to review the child’s academic and social, emotional functioning, IEP goals and special education services in order to ensure a smooth transition into our schools.”

Pick the best educational model

Every charter school has its own learning model, from Montessori — which includes multi-aged classrooms — to language-immersion programs, and schools that specialize in art or science.

Beyond the individual school’s focus, it’s also important to recognize how your child learns best. For example, some students with learning differences find success when they are blended with the overall population, while others are more

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comfortable in specialized one-on-one or small-group education.

Mastery schools, for example, include students with disabilities in the overall population to the greatest extent possible, says Oglesby.

“Parents should ask questions about the method because not every school is right for every child,” says Kendall Massett, executive director of Delaware Charter Schools Network.

Questions to Ask • Does the school’s teaching philosophy match how your child learns?

• On a school visit, does it seem like an environment where your child will succeed?

If your child likes to be around a lot of people, a larger school may be a better fit.

• Are there other students who have the same kind of learning differences as your child?

• How well does your child adapt to change?

If a move to a new building might be difficult, choose a school that can serve him from Kindergarten through 8th grade, or 6th through 12th grade.

• Find out who is responsible for services to students with special needs and who leads the evaluation process. Sometimes that’s the school, but not always. Regardless, the financial responsibility falls to the school, not the family.

• What is the school’s track record?

• How does the school handle behavior issues?

Choose ‘to’ not ‘from’

Be careful not to choose a new school because you were unhappy with something your child’s old school did.

“Choice should be running to something,” Massett says. “When you’re running away from something you’re looking for ‘anything but.’

“You should say, ‘This is good for my child because of ‘X’ and that’s with every child, learning differences or not.”

Follow the (IEP) plan

Once parents find the best school for their child, the school will review the student’s IEP to create the most successful path.

“Each student’s plan is designed to meet his individual needs, so if a student’s needs become increasingly complex, we may use supports outside of the general classroom.

IEP implementation looks different for each student,” she says.

Your child’s IEP specifies the services

she is entitled to, “but if you want a whole bunch more that the IEP doesn’t think is necessary, you aren’t going to get it for free,” says Massett. “You can pay for that on your own, but the services listed in your IEP would be free as part of your public education.”

Terri Akman is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

DECEMBER 2018

Education

continued from p. 6

Welcome to Cyber School Traditional schools embrace online courses

By Ann L. Rappoport No longer are cyber-charter or private cyber-academies the only online options for K-12 students. Traditional schools now offer more online and blended programs (classes that combine online and in-school sessions) as technology transforms education at all levels.

Online and blended courses help students who need to work at jobs where shifts overlap traditional school hours.

Alternative ed

Downingtown Area School District in Chester County, PA, began offering cyber options in 2011 and blended courses in 2014. “Students want to do this,” says Kristie Burk, coordinator of the district’s digital learning, and the district can’t ignore that demand. Last year, more than 1,200 high school students registered for Downingtown’s blended classes; 37 took all of their classes online. There are as many reasons as there are cyber students, she says. Here are some reasons:

The Douglass School is an alternative school in the Christina School District in Delaware whose primary goal is to support students as they prepare to return from Douglass to their geographic school, according to James Daniels, director of education. Douglass provides counseling and behavioral components in small, blended classrooms. Academic content, through online platforms, is individualized and targeted to fill gaps in the student’s path. Digital maps help students see where they are in their program and allow them to pace their education. They can, for example, fast track what they’ve missed in order to graduate on time. Daniels says students have told him, “If it wasn’t for this, I wouldn’t have graduated.”

Cyber options appeal to athletes, for example, who might need to miss 7th and 8th periods or elite athletes who travel, train or compete in other parts of the country.

Online courses also serve students with medical issues, from irritable bowel syndrome to Lyme disease or depression.

Students in Downingtown’s allied-health internship program, which takes students off campus during first and second periods, can schedule courses online that they’d otherwise miss.

Cyber options flip how in-class and homework time are used, says Washington Township (Sewell, NJ) Schools’ Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, Jack McGee, and Director of Secondary Education and Institutional Technology, Steve Gregor, EdD. Cyber lessons provide introductory and background material to students at home, at the doctor’s office, or anywhere; students can then replay them as needed to fully grasp the material.

Student-driven desire

Flexibility

DECEMBER 2018

Flipped approach

Cyber lessons flip the role of the teacher as lecturer. Group sessions can be used for deeper investigation, problem solving and applications, explains Wendy Morales, digital media arts and technology supervisor for Middletown Township Public Schools in Leonardo, NJ. Teachers facilitate online conversations, connections among classrooms and interviews with experts in the field. They can interact with students online, as well as in school.

An example of a flipped approach comes from McGee and Gregor. For homework, students might view a video on the conditions of the North and South prior to the Civil War. Then class time is used to apply that information in small groups and strategize economic, political and military objectives. The teacher helps guide the process and works with the class to analyze how their projections compare with what actually occurred.

The result is greater participation by all the students (rather than domination of class time by a few) as well as individual student ownership of learning, and greater achievement and retention.

Personalized education

Many districts, such as Middletown and Washington townships, provide students in grades 3–12 with digital devices. With information at their fingertips 24/7, students can explore artistic or engineering aspects of the material that excite them, says Morales. Infused with this access and Middletown’s allocation of time for students to pursue their individual interests (the so-called Genius Hour), non-traditional learners can shine, she says.

In this rich electronic environment, instruction meets the student at his own level, says McGee. Being able to pace one’s own lessons over the span of a week reduces pressure while building a student’s time-management skills.

Struggling students who might “not get” the traditional lecture have online options for multiple approaches as well as access to district teachers. Students say they feel less stressed.

Digital devices also help bridge the digital divide and allow staff to track students’ progress, including AP scores, and the greater participation from traditionally underrepresented voices. continued on p. 17

MetroKids.com 11

Toy Test 2018 We asked families to try some of the season’s most popular playthings and share their thoughts. For full reviews, including takes from the kids themselves, visit MetroKids.com/toytest2018.

LITTLE KIDS Doc McStuffins Pet Rescue Mobile Just Play; 3+; $49.95

The gist: This portable playset themed to the popular Disney Junior show comes equipped with music, phrases, lights, Doc’s pal Oliver and pretend medical tools and accessories.

Testers: Gracie H. (3) and mom Jennifer; Lincoln Univ., PA Toy appeal: 10 Educational value: 9. “This is great for teaching compassion and encouraging my daughter to use her imagination. She takes care of the animals’ boo-boos and gives them treats.”

Functionality: 9 Durability: 10 Jennifer’s verdict: “Setup was easy — I love that no assembly is required — and Gracie was ready to play as soon as we got the toy out of the box. The only drawback is that batteries weren’t included.”

Go-with-Me ABC Backpack Leapfrog; 3+; $29.99

The gist: Using the write-and-erase board, tots can try letter writing and drawing during seven on-screen activities led by Mr. Pencil.

Testers: Kira S. (6) and dad Joshua; Fairless Hills, PA Toy appeal: 9 Educational value: 9. “Even older kids can learn something from this backpack.

Kira practiced writing and sounding out and spelling words.”

Functionality: 8 Durability: 9 Joshua’s verdict: “This toy is educational, enjoyable and easy to figure out. It holds my child’s attention for a decent amount of time, too.”

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Starshine the Bright Lights Unicorn VTech; 1+; $22.99

The gist: Place the charms provided on the unicorn’s “magic” hearts to watch it light up and teach colors, objects and phrases in English and Spanish Testers: Kateryna K. (1) and mom Melissa; Philly Toy appeal: 8 Educational value: 8. “I especially appreciate the Spanish mode and being able to introduce my 1-year-old to a foreign language in a playful yet educational manner.”

Functionality: 7 Durability: 8 Melissa’s verdict: “I try to give my children toys that promote learning while still providing fun, and Starshine hits the spot. This toy is a welcome addition to the rotation of toys taking up space in our living room.”

OLDER KIDS Aura Stealth Drone KD Interactive; 6+; $79.99

The gist: This toy drone ditches the joystick in favor of gesture-controlled movement.

The drone moves in all directions and even performs tricks, all dictated by the motion of your hand.

Testers: Garrett B. (9), friend Gavin L. (9) & mom Natalie; Garnet Valley, PA Toy appeal: 9 Educational value: 8 Functionality: 8 Durability: 10. “The drone has a built-in safety cage that prevents it from breaking, as well as a sensor that prevents it from bumping into things.

Although the top of the wristband is bulky, the Velcro it uses to attach to the user’s wrist is durable.”

Natalie’s verdict: “We’ve had many drones and this has been the easiest one for the kids to understand and manipulate. This is truly for children; I don’t have to assemble it myself using complicated directions. The flight is smooth, too, and we don’t have to worry about it breaking.” continued on p. 17 DECEMBER 2018

Family FamilyFun Fun

Sights of the Season Halls are decked. Wish lists are ready. The “most wonderful time of the year” is here, and with it comes displays and light shows so extravagant that even Scrooge would be impressed. Visit MetroKids.com/holiday for even more festivities, from meals with Santa to shopping to community celebrations.

BURLINGTON COUNTY

WORTH THE DRIVE

Fellowship Community Church, Mt. Laurel

Downtown Cape May

Two hundred cast members and a menagerie of animals bring to life more than a dozen outdoor walk-through vignettes during the Living Nativity, which aims to depict the full story of the birth of Jesus. Warm up afterward with complimentary hot chocolate in the church. Sat. & Sun., Dec. 1-16.

Johnson’s Corner Farm, Medford

Hop on a Holiday Light Show Hayride to marvel at a festive mix of installations and classic carols, then roast marshmallows by the fire while you watch the Light Show on the Lake. Families can also decorate gingerbread cookies and meet Santa.

Through Dec. 23.

Village Greene, Smithville

With more than 100 trees floating on Lake Meone, the Holiday Light Show is a thing of wonder. The space also hosts storytime with Mrs. Claus and breakfast with Santa on select dates. Through Jan. 6.

The town transforms into a Dickensreminiscent village for Christmas in Cape May, complete with candlelight and family tours, exhibits, festivals and trolley rides alongside St. Nick. Through Jan. 1.

Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach

Dive into the Sea of Lights festival, where the aquarium is adorned with lights and decorations and kids can make crafts, play reindeer games and pose for pics with Santa. Select dates, Dec. 14-28.

Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson

Decorating is serious business here: In addition to canopies of lights suspended above walkways and decked-out roller coasters, the light show at the center of Holiday in the Park is large enough to make visitors feel as if they’re immersed in the action. Select dates through Jan. 1.

The dairy farm celebrates the season with elaborate displays, a towering tree that moves to music and lights galore. Take in the scenery aboard a Country Christmas Hayride. Fri. & Sat. through Dec. 15 & daily Dec. 17-22.

Anyone who’s taken a driving tour of their neighborhood’s decorations knows that, year after year, there are always houses — even entire blocks — that bring holiday cheer to a whole new level. These spectacular displays are a must-see, even for those who don’t live in the area.

BURLINGTON COUNTY Burlington Steeplechase Blvd. & Tack Way Cinnaminson 111 Purrell Ave. Medford Trimble St.

GLOUCESTER COUNTY Pitman 134 North Ave.

GLOUCESTER COUNTY Creamy Acres, Mullica Hill

Home for the Holidays: Residential Light Displays

Williamstown 1128 Lafayette St.

Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp.

Santa gets the party started during Christmas Fantasy with Lights when, with a wave of his magic wand, he flips on more than 1 million lights throughout the park.

Through Dec. 23.

JERSEY SHORE Absecon 612 Sooy Ln. Bayville 279 Woodhaven Blvd.

Egg Harbor Twp. Poplar Ave. Seaville 1497 Stagecoach Rd. Log on to MetroKids.com/ familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

DECEMBER 2018

MetroKids.com 13

Family Fun

Revel in the scenery at Cape May's Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Dec. 7.

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR Special needs event Dickens Festival

Dec. 1

Seasonal event

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

1 Saturday

Bank of America Museums on Us, Cherry Hill and Millville. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders are granted no-cost access to participating venues, including the Garden State Discovery Museum and Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center. FREE Christmas on the Farm at Howell Living History Farm, Lambertville. See “Fab Freebie,” p.

15. FREE Cookies with Santa at the Princeton Shopping Center, Princeton. FREE

Parade of Lights

8 Saturday

Deck the Alley at Elfreth’s Alley, Phila. The country’s oldest street features seasonal decorations, meet-and-greets with Santa and live music. $$$$ Dickens Festival in downtown Medford.

Enjoy carriage rides, entertainment, crafts, live music, historical interpretors and period vendors. FREE Family Holiday Celebration at the Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood. A seasonal bazaar, live entertainment, movie screenings and selfies with Santa are all part of the fun. FREE

Santa's Workshop & Holiday Brunch

Dec. 2 & 9

14 MetroKids.com

Holiday Festival at Casino Pier, Atlantic City.

Enjoy an ugly sweater contest, arts & crafts, an indoor snowball fight and Santa sightings. Bring nonperishable canned goods to donate. FREE Hospitality Night at Historic Smithville & Village Greene, Smithville. Each store hosts a special event. FREE Kick Off the Holiday Season at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. Pick a Christmas tree and wreath to take home, meet farm animals and do some holiday shopping. FREE Lucia Fest and Christmas Market at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila.

Enjoy Swedish Christmas songs, dance and crafts, culminating with the procession of Lucia. $$$ Sounds of the Season at the Fairmount Park Charms, Phila. The historic homes host performances by some of the area’s best jazz, classical, gospel and Latin musicians. $$$$ Wassail Day at Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. Festivities include live music, crafts, treats, wagon rides and visits with Father Christmas. FREE

2 Sunday

Family Matinee: Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer at Hopewell Theater, Hopewell. $$

Bank of America Museums on Us, Cherry Hill and Millville. See Dec. 1. FREE

Geocaching Program at the Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury. Learn about the sport, then test what you’ve learned on a short course. $$

Candy Cane Hunt with the Sugarplum Fairy at One Liberty Observation Deck, Phila. $$

DECEMBER 2018

FAB FREEBIE

Santa arrives at Lambertville’s Howell Living History Farm in his sleigh to celebrate Christmas on the Farm, Dec. 1. Kids get hands-on with holiday fun as they help cut down and decorate a tree, take wagon rides, make crafts, explore the grounds, enjoy live music and chat with St. Nick.

Family Arts Academy: Draw, Transfer, Repeat at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make large-scale artworks using techniques such as drawing, color transfers and repetition.

FREE Family Day at Lemon Hill Mansion, Phila. The historic home hosts live entertainment and kids’ activities. $$$$ Festive Fashion Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Play dress-up and make a wearable cape. Pay what you wish Santa’s Workshop and Holiday Brunch at the Reeds at Shelter Haven, Stone Harbor. $$$$

5 Wednesday

A Philly Pops Christmas: Sensory-friendly Performance at Verizon Hall, Phila. Accommodations include lowered house lights, adjusted sound and a designated quiet space. $$$$ Q102’s Jingle Ball at the Wells Fargo Center, Phila. Shawn Mendes, Calvin Harris, 5 Seconds of Summer and others are set to take the stage. $$$$

6 Thursday

Girls’ Night Out at Historic Smithville & Village Greene, Smithville. Each store hosts a special event. FREE

7 Friday

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in downtown Cape May. FREE Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade at 15th & Central Aves., Wildwood. Head to Byrne Plaza after the event for a tree-lighting ceremony. FREE Hanukkah Celebration at Franklin Square, Phila. Celebrate with dreidel games, latkes and crafts. FREE

German-American Weekend at Christmas Village, Phila.

Festivities include authentic German food, music and dance. FREE Hanukkah Party at the Pop Shop, Collingswood. Light candles, play dreidel and sing tunes led by a cantor. $$$$ Make a Website Using WordPress at Comcast, Mt. Laurel. Run by TechGirlz. FREE PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE Parade of Lights at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila.

A procession of decorated boats illuminates the Delaware River, viewable from the second floor. Arrive early to meet Santa and decorate gingerbread boats. $$$ Winter Solstice Celebration at the Penn Museum, Phila. Mark the longest night of the year early with art activities, storytelling, a winter market, workshops and tours. $$$

9 Sunday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Pop Shop, Collingswood. $$$$ Family Arts Academy: Dance to Draw at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. After a performance by the Academy of International Ballet, learn the techniques of improvisational drawing. FREE Flavors of the Season at the Fairmount Park Charms, Phila.

Participating houses serve up samples and cooking demos of favorite holiday fare. $$$$ Santa’s Workshop and Holiday Brunch at the Reeds at Shelter Haven, Stone Harbor. $$$$

12 Wednesday

Holiday Celebration at the RiverWinds Community Center, West Deptford. Santa meet-and-greets, music and dancing are all part of the fun. FREE

Storytime: The Jacket I Wear in the Snow at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids paint a snowman following the tale. $$$

Kids and Critters Preschool Program: Feeding Feeder Birds at the Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury. Activities include stories, an animal presentation and nature exploration. $$

Holiday Bash by the Bay at the Reeds at Shelter Haven, Stone Harbor. This adults-only extravaganza features food and drinks, fire pits and dancing in the ballroom. $$$$

Outdoorsy Ornaments Workshop at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. $$$$

Sea of Lights at Jenkinson's Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach.

Make crafts, play games, pose for pics with Santa and check out the aquatic decorations. $$$

8 Saturday

Breakfast with Santa at the Garden State Discovery Museum, Cherry Hill. $$$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Chanukah on Ice at Flyers Skate Zone, Voorhees. Whirl around the rink to contemporary Jewish music, make an art project and watch as a giant menorah ice sculpture is carved during the event. $$$

DECEMBER 2018

14 Friday

15 Saturday

Bill of Rights Day at the National Constitution Center, Phila.

Commemorate the document’s anniversary by viewing an original copy, playing a game show and touring Signer’s Hall. $$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Pop Shop, Collingswood. $$$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Sea of Lights at Jenkinson's Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach.

See Dec. 14. $$$

MetroKids.com 15

Family Fun

16 Sunday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Pop Shop, Collingswood. $$$$ Christmas Bird Count at the Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury. FREE Family Arts Academy: Lights, Wrapping, Assemble at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make illuminated orbs. FREE

Winter Break Programming at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Activities centered on Alexander Hamilton include an interactive show, trivia games, crafts and colonial dress-up.

Through Dec. 31. $$$

Town & County: New Year’s Eve

27 Thursday

The Nutcracker: Sensory-friendly Performance at the Academy of Music, Phila. Accommodations for this Pennsylvania Ballet production include lowered house lights, adjusted sound and a designated quiet space. $$$$

21 Friday

Storytime: Kitten’s Christmas at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See Dec. 26. $$$

Close out 2018 with festivities for the whole family.

Kids and Critters Preschool Program: Staying Warm at the Plainsboro Preserve, Cranbury. See Dec. 7. $$

Xtreme Science Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Explore the science behind climate change, evolution and other hot topics, then partake in experiments and watch presentations. $$$

BURLINGTON COUNTY Dive into 2019 during Midnight at the Oasis at Sahara Sam's Oasis in West Berlin, featuring a foam party, noisemakers, hats and champagne or sparking-cider toasts.

Frozen Night at Franklin Square, Phila. Join Elsa and Anna for activities and sing-alongs. FREE

Sea of Lights at Jenkinson's Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach. See Dec. 14. $$$

22 Saturday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ How the Grinch Stole Christmas: Sensory-friendly Performance at the Merriam Theater, Phila. Accommodations include lowered house lights, adjusted sound and a designated quiet space. $$$$ Sea of Lights at Jenkinson's Aquarium, Point Pleasant Beach. See Dec. 14. $$$

23 Sunday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$

25 Tuesday

Being ___ at Christmas at the National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila. This celebration features games, crafts, storytelling, face painting and movie screenings. $$$

28 Friday

Xtreme Science Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. See Dec. 27. $$$

29 Saturday

Storytime: Kitten’s Christmas at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids make themed ornaments after the tale. $$$ Xtreme Science Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. See Dec. 27. $$$

31 Monday

First Night Ocean City, Ocean City. See “Town & County,” right. Cost varies Midnight at the Oasis at Sahara Sam's Oasis, West Berlin. See “Town & County,” right. $$$$ New Year's at Noon (and 3pm) at the Garden State Discovery Museum, Cherry Hill. See “Town & County,” right. $$$ New Year's Eve Fireworks on the Battleship New Jersey, Camden. See “Town & County,” right. $$

26 Wednesday

Storytime: Kitten’s Christmas at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids make themed ornaments after the tale. $$$

PERFORMANCES The Nutcracker at the College of New Jersey's Kendall Main Stage Theatre, Ewing. Performed

by Roxey Ballet. Dec. 1 & 2. $$$$ Santa's Frozen Adventures at the Broadway Theatre of Pitman. Dec. 1-16. $$ The Santaland Diaries at Congress Hall, Cape May. Performed by Cape May Stage.

Dec. 1-26. $$$$ A Christmas Carol at the McCarter Theatre, Princeton. Dec. 4-29. $$$$

16 MetroKids.com

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

CAMDEN COUNTY Get a front-row seat to the Camden waterfront's 6pm and midnight New Year's Eve Fireworks on the Battleship New Jersey. In addition to panoramic views of the action, families enjoy music and food & drinks.

Kids can't stay up late? Then bring them to the Garden State Discovery Museum's New Years at Noon (and 3pm) bash in Cherry Hill, complete with music, dancing and a countdown.

CAPE MAY COUNTY Heading down the shore for the holiday? There's plenty to do. First Night Ocean City rings in the New Year with fun at venues around town, from live music and kids' entertainment (think magic shows and jugglers) to ice skating and karaoke. The festivities culminate in a fireworks display at midnight.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. Dec. 7-9. $$$$ Scrooge: The Musical at the Ritz Theatre Company, Haddon Twp. Dec. 7-23. $$ The Nutcracker at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor.

Dec. 14-16. $$$$ The Nutcracker at Caesars Atlantic City. Performed by the Atlantic City Ballet. Dec. 15 & 16. $$$$ Snow Day at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor.

Dec. 22 & 23. $$$$

DECEMBER 2018

Education

continued from p. 11

Disadvantages

An obvious disadvantage of cyber-dependent education, says Gregor, is that “Machines break down. They need maintenance; you have to charge them.” He notes that a similar argument was heard in the 16th century over the use of the pencil. With time and experience, these issues are overcome, he says.

“With freedom and flexibility comes responsibility,” says Burk.

Some students struggle with the independence associated with online coursework and are easily distracted. But, she says, interventions with teachers, physically and virtually, are available and the improved time-management skills will serve students in the future.

Cost to the district might be seen as a disadvantage, but the schools with devices for all students say the advantages far outweigh that disadvantage.

Finally, contrary to a popular misconception, digital courses are actually more work for teachers than the traditional approaches, McGee says. In addition to professional development, they must familiarize themselves with online sites and curate content; create digital lesson materials, including links to relevant resources; facilitate investigations and applications; monitor online discussions, and communicate with students online and in class.

Toy Test 2018

continued from p. 12

Creative Café Barista Bar RoseArt; 6+; $29.99

The gist: Budding baristas make frothy, milk-based chocolate or strawberry drinks using this heat-free steamer, complete with stencils for “latte” art.

Testers: Lottie L. (7) and mom Lorin; Phoenixville, PA Toy appeal: 10 Educational value: 4 Functionality: 8. “I recommend setting up the toy before you bring the kids in to play.

The drinks are yummy and the powder smells good. We initially had trouble using the stencils, but it just takes practice.”

Durability: 8 Lorin’s verdict: “My daughter loved to play with the shaker bottles and shake the powder into the cups. She also enjoyed adding sprinkles and getting creative with her drinks.”

Disney’s The Incredibles Save the Day Board Game Wonder Forge; 6+; $19.99

The future

New Jersey requires 2.5 credits in financial literacy for graduation that, in Washington Township schools, is often met digitally.

Downingtown requires students to take at least one blended or cyber course to graduate.

Morales acknowledges that some parents are uncomfortable with cyber learning, because they didn’t learn that way, or it doesn’t fit their stereotype of what school should look like.

But as McGee notes, “The goal is to prepare them for their future, not for our past.”

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

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DECEMBER 2018

The gist: Team up to defeat villains and save a city; each player has a unique power, so strategizing who will take on which challenge is key.

Testers: Ryan T. (12), Aiden (9) and mom Stephanie; Newark, DE Toy appeal: 8 Educational value: 8. “The game teaches turntaking, planning and cooperative problem-solving. My kids quickly realized that each person could tackle different tasks to help our team succeed.”

Functionality: 7 Durability: 7 Stephanie’s verdict: “The cooperative play is great, especially for families with young children. On each turn there is the opportunity to discuss the best choice to make to help your team. The best choice changes with each turn and player, so things stay fresh from turn to turn. We played three times in a row and the outcome was different with each game.”

Kidi Secrets Selfie Journal VTech; 6+; $49.99

The gist: Facial-recognition software unlocks this journal that lets users take photos and videos, record messages, play learning games and listen to music.

Testers: Madison B. (6) and mom Michelle; Havertown, PA Toy appeal: 9 Educational value: 7 Functionality: 8 Durability: 9. “The product is made of hard plastic, which is durable; Madison’s dropped it a few times with no damage to the toy.”

Michelle’s verdict: “The journal is suited for one kid to play with at a time, so as an only child, my daughter likes that feature. She can play with it if she doesn’t have friends over, and she’s chosen it over other toys since she got it.”

MetroKids.com 17

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 Bruni Square, 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

18 MetroKids.com

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

Meet Our CoverKid

Four-year-old Anina F. of Aston, PA is this month’s CoverKid and her red coat makes her a particularly festive choice.

Her mother, Carla, says Anina is excited to decorate the house and bake holiday cookies, some of which she leaves out for Santa along with carrots for his reindeer.

She hopes it will convince Santa to leave behind a robo vacuum. She thinks it would be a great way to not only clean up after her dogs, Joey and Pixie, but maybe pick up her toys as well.

While excited about the holidays, Anina also enjoys the warmer months because she gets to go to the shore often to play in the sand and water.

But until then, she’ll enjoy her new cousin, Brielle, and spend time with her uncles, except her favorite, Uncle Charlie, who is a Marine stationed in Japan.

In January, she gets to celebrate not only her great-grandfather’s 98th birthday, but her own.

That’s after Christmas, Anina likes to remind people, as anybody who has a birthday near the holidays will understand.

Thanks for being on our cover, Anina. And let us know how that toy-cleaning robo vacuum works.

We might want to get one of those next year.

DECEMBER 2018

Super fFREE or the SUNDAY, JANUARY 27, 2019 1-4PM Plymouth Meeting Mall 500 W. Germantown Pike • Plymouth Mtg., PA 19462

REGISTER NOW! First 100 to register receive a famous stuffed

Goodie Bag

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Agora Cyber Charter Blue Bell Camp Bowman Dance Co. & School Burn Brae Day Camp Camp America Day Camp Camp Onas Camp Pegasus Camp Sesame Rockwood Eden Village Camp Engineering For Kids Flourtown Summer Day Camp French for Fun Summer Camp Frog Hollow Tennis Camp Fun in the Sun Germantown Academy Day Camp and Summer Programs Lavner Camps Main Line Art Center Summer Art Camp Malvern Day Camp Mercersburg Summer Programs Penn Charter Summer Camps Philadelphia Rock Gym Quadrat Academy Science Explorers Summerside on the Hill Temple University Summer Education Camps The Agnes Irwin School, Summer at AIS The School in Rose Valley The Pathway School

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

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