Staten Island Parent August 2013

AUGUST 2013

.com SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PARENTING

o t k Bac ool Sch ducts Pro

Cover Kid Winner

MARA KATSOUFIS Up Close With Mara on Page 74

Photo Credit: Amanda Marie Artistry

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Back to School Directory

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TABLE OF CONTENTS ADVERTISER INDEX 113

AUGUST 2013

COVER STORY Summer Scenarios That Will Peak Your Child’s Curiosity A curious mind is a wonderful thing! If you’ve got kids, you undoubtedly know that it’s most often up to you to satisfy their curiosity with answers to the seemingly endless questions. We say, “Embrace the Questions!” and you will be helping to build a skill that will serve them throughout their lives. Author Victoria Ryan O’Toole provides us with some common summer scenarios to help spark curiosity-enhancing discussions.

Read more on page 58

ARTICLES 28 Breastfeeding Basics Secrets for a successful beginning

32 It’s Potty Training Time Arming you with advice for facing this parenting milestone

36 Six Months of Motherhood What one Staten Island mother has learned-- so far!

38 Make the Most of Your ‘Staycation’ Many families are opting for close to home fun

40 The Dogma of Cats: Feline philosophies for a fulfilling life

46 Conquering Colllege Crunch Time Make the most of the week before classes begin

52 Protecting Vision in the Summertime Prevention is the most important step

56 Time Your Move Right to Save Money Tips for lessening the financial stress

66 Stop the Bullying Important information from experts

76 The S.T.E.M. Crises Science, Technology, Engineering & Math

80 Healthy Foods for Men Get in shape and improve overall health

86 Is Your Child Ready to be Home Alone?

COLUMNS 34 Good Sports

by Joe LoVerde

44 Dear Teacher

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

54 Growing Up Online

CONTESTS & CLUBS 4 Medieval Times Ticket Giveaway 83 Skip Hop Bedding Set & Breastfeeding Pllow Giveaway

100 Contest Winners 101 Find the Hidden Cake

by Carolyn Jabs

112 Birthday Club 62 Ask the Doctor

by Jonathan Blau MD, FAAP

84 Parent & Child Time

by Ann Clinton

102 GiGi’s World

by GiGi & Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker

S. I. LIVING

FAMILY NEEDS 64 It’s In The Cards 104 Party Services 108 Family Classifieds 110 Professional Directory

SPECIAL SECTIONS

20 Community & School News

39 Summer 2013 Fireworks

60 Facebook Chatter

74 Cover Kid Closeup -

83 Birth Announcements

82 OMG...I’m a Mom! 90 Back to School Directory

94 Family Calendar

Mara Katsoufis

92 Back to School Product Review

Make Sure You Check Out Our

BACK TO SCHOOL DIRECTORY

online @ siparent.com.

If You Can’t Get Out to Pick Up a Copy of S.I. Parent, View it Online Anytime at

How to make the big decision

www.siparent.com/digital_magazine.php

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Readers, August is a wonderful month. Summer has been around long enough to take that hectic edge off our schedule, allowing us to drop our shoulders a bit, take deeper breathes and slower steps. It’s the perfect time to focus on family and build memories with your children. Sure, you could teach them things, but why not let them guide the learning? Children are so full of questions- use this to explore new topics and you could be surprised by what you learn! My daughter Nicole and I often liked to discuss the moon, but there are tons of topics to peak your child’s curiosity. See our cover story, Summer Scenarios That Will Peak Your Child’s Curiosity on page 58 for some suggested scenarios and the questions you can ask to enhance their exploration.

Did you notice the beautiful baby on this month’s cover? That’s one-year old Mara Katsoufis.

She’s one of our Cover Kid Contest winners. You can read more about this cutie in her bio on page 74.

This month (Breastfeeding Awareness Month) and every month, one of the most talked about topics for new or expectant moms is breastfeeding. So naturally, it’s the topic of this month’s O.M.G. I’m a Mom! on page 82. For more information on this important decision, read the article on Breastfeeding Basics on page 28 as well as what neonatologist Dr. Jonathan Blau has to say on its benefits for both you and your baby in Ask the Doctor on page 62.

Also on the “Most Discussed List” is potty-training. Whether you are approaching that stage, are currently trying to navigate your child toward that milestone, or are gratefully looking at those days in the rearview mirror, everyone has a potty-training story and they are often hilarious!

Share yours with us on our Facebook page. You might just bring a smile to the face of a mom struggling to make it through to dry pants!

The decision to allow your child to stay home alone is one of the most difficult to make. (And you thought potty-training was hard!) It was one of the topics we discussed on Facebook with other Staten Island parents, where we learned just how personal that choice is for each child. We’ve also given you some points to consider from the NYS Office of Children and Family Services in the article “Is Your Child Ready to be Home Alone?” on page 86.

Whatever you choose to do this month, I hope that you get to make some fun family memories. Find the time not only for your family, but for you too. Visit one of our libraries and finally pick up that novel that you have wanted to read. You deserve some time for you. It's the summer!

I am off to enjoy reading a book in one of our local parks. Who knows? We might run into each other.

If you see me, say “Hi.” How will you know it's me? I will probably have a few copies of S.I. Parent magazine on my blanket for anyone who passes by.

So, for this month, not only will I see you on Facebook; let's try to run into each other in one of our parks.

N

WI

In the last few years, Staycations are a favorite among many Staten Island families. Our article "Make the Most of Your Staycation" on page 38, might give you some ideas that you haven't explored. Staten Island and New Jersey offer a variety of options for the family. When you are planning activities for your family, make sure that after looking at our print calendar, you go to www.siparent.com for more events and fun ideas.

6 TICKETS TO MEDIEVAL TIMES Enter online at siparent.com Click on the Tab “Contests & Clubs”

STAFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht PUBLISHERS Roselle Farina Hecht Luciano Rammairone SENIOR EDITOR/ DESIGNER Gerri Friscia DESIGNER Michelle Yannaco

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & FINANCES Linda Bellesi EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Elizabeth Thompson OFFICE ASSISTANT Carole Stillman

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen Janine Mulé Kitty Masi Cecilia Saccomagno Jodi Fatto Sarah Kabalkin TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Alex Levy

You can use a QR Code scanner on a smartphone to visit our website. Download one of the following free apps: QR Reader for iPhone, Barcode Scanner for Android and ScanLife for Blackberry S.I. Parent magazine is published 12 times a year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The publishers of this magazine do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or writers.

DISTRIBUTION Orlando Moreno

1200 South Avenue, Suite 202 • Staten Island, New York 10314 Advertising: 718.761.4800 x7139 | Email: info@siparent.com

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FREE NEW PATIENT EXAMINATION

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Crib Outlet BABY AND TEEN FURNITURE

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News

A guide to community events

The dog days of summer are upon us, though last month’s heat wave certainly gave us a preview.

Whether you and the kids choose to chill out by the AC or find a cool spot by the pool or beach, let SI Parent keep you posted on ways to make your August awesome. And, if you’re planning a staycation, there’s plenty to do and see right on Staten Island. Read on...

Free Concert for Autism Awareness There are lots of great free events this summer (see our calendar for more options), but there’s one that we wanted to give a special shout-out to. On Friday, August 2, the “Beatles Blast” concert will take place at the Richmond County Bank Ballpark (75 Richmond Terrace, St. George) from 7 - 10 PM. The concert, which is sponsored by Northfield Bank Foundation, is dedicated to Autism Awareness and will feature young local musicians playing covers of Beatles’ classics.

Important Dates for 2013-2014 School Year We know that you’ve probably committed the date of the first day of school to memory, but what about the rest of the important dates for the school year? SIP’s got you covered--we’ve posted the school calendars for easy reference on our website. Be sure to bookmark our page at www.siparent.com and check often for updates.

Rab’s Bowls Them Over with Generosity!

Rab’s Country Lanes, a family-run business providing a fun, safe haven for Staten Island residents for more than 18 years, was recently recognized with a Small Business of the Year Award for efforts that go above and beyond to help the community. More than

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just a neighborhood bowling alley, Rab’s is a proud community member that raises over $500,000 annually through fundraisers and events, awards over $25,000 in college scholarships to bowlers in their youth bowling program and in the aftermath of Sandy, they opened their doors as a distribution center for food, clothes and shelter to victims.

Nominated by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, Rab’s owner Frank Wilkinson was presented with the award by Mayor Michael Bloomberg at Gracie Mansion during the 2013 Neighborhood Achievement Awards ceremony.

"Our bowling center has become a focal point on Staten Island for people of all ages to relax and have a good time. Our customers have become our family and we enjoy giving back to the community all the love and support they continue to bring to us," says Wilkinson.

S.I. Parent sends out a big “Thank You!” to Wilkinson and family for being a true community treasure!

Indulge in Ice Cream and Help Others Thanks to the newly opened Dairy Queen at the St. George Ferry Terminal, Staten Islanders can get a taste of the 8th Annual Dairy

Creating beautiful, healthy smiles in Staten Island

DR. SALVATORE ESPOSITO DR. RICHARD SACCARO

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CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF CARING FOR YOUR CHILDREN NORTH SHORE

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AUGUST 2013

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News Queen Miracle Treat Day on August 8. During the all-day event, $1 from each Blizzard Treat sold will go to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

The CMN Hospitals raise funds to support young patients at around 170 children’s hospitals.

During last year’s event, nearly $5 million was raised. With this summer’s heat wave increasing our cravings for ice-cold treats, who knows how much can be raised this year?

Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day @ U.S. Open Summer is a great time for tennis fans, especially New York fans, as the U.S. Open takes place later this month. But before the top players take to the court, the 18th Annual Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day presented by Hess will take place the grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing on Saturday, August 24.

The annual festivities once again promise fun for the entire family, with attractions and activities that include tennis clinics, interactive games, and live music. There will also be plenty of tennis and music stars on hand; past celebrities involved with the Kids’ Day include Justin Bieber, The Wanted, Cary Rae Jepson, Jonas Brothers, Jessica Simpson, Britney Spears, Rihanna, Demi Lovato and Ne-Yo, along with Andy Roddick, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Serena Williams. For tickets and more info about the event, please visit www.arthurashekidsday.com.

St. Joseph By-the-Sea Earns Reaccreditation Great news from Huguenot - St. Joseph By-theSea High School has earned its reaccreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS). The reaccreditation means that the school meets and/or exceeds standards in a variety of areas, including student performance, school leadership, facilities, finances, student services, health/safety, faculty/staff, & long-range planning.

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Achieving accreditation or reaccreditation is a long and arduous task, with months of work put in by a school’s Steering Committee. Sea’s committee was required to complete an intensive self evaluation, as well as host an independent

AUGUST 2013

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B BOYS OYS & G GIRLS IRLS 2 2-ADULT -ADULT COMPETITIVE COMPETITIVE AND AND N NON ON C COMPETITIVE OMPETITIVE C CLASSES LASSES COME JOIN THE

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News team of educators who formulated their own assessment, resulting in a seven year MSA-CESS accreditation. Congratulations to the students and staff for their continued excellence!

Healthier Lunch Choices Coming to Island Schools Salad bars are making a healthful debut in some elementary school cafeterias this school year. Earlier this summer at a press conference, Borough President James Molinaro, Schools Chancellor Dennis M. Walcott, and Kevin Mannix of Mannix Family ShopRite Supermarkets of Staten Island announced that a $35,000 grant from Mannix Family ShopRite Supermarkets would go towards the creation of salad bars at five schools across Staten Island, including one at P.S. 50 in Oakwood.

The grant helps to further the initiative to have salad bars in all NYC public schools by 2015. Having healthful food options in our schools is a great step forward in the fight against childhood obesity!

NY State Gets Tough on Texting As of June 1, Governor Cuomo has mandated tougher penalties for texting and using your cell phone while driving in New York State. The DMV will increase the point penalty from three to five for texting/talking infractions, and state and local police have been urged to take more careful note of drivers who do not abide by the rules.

We have already heard too many times in the news about tragic road deaths caused by distracted drivers. For yourself and for any little ones you have as passengers, remember to put the cell phone away while driving!

Free Walking Program This summer, NYC Parks Department has been hosting Walk NYC, a free program that encourages walkers of all ages to get fit outdoors. The weekly program takes place at three Staten Island parks, with the following schedule: ~ Willowbrook Park (Victory Blvd., near CSI), Mondays from 12 - 1 pm ~ Greenbelt Recreation Center (501 Brielle Ave.), Mondays and Fridays from 10:30 -11:30 am ~ Schmul Park (Travis) - Fridays, 12 - 1 pm

Thr e a t The at

re

Tr i

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Michael De Simone Ph.D, LCSW

michaeldesimonetherapy.com

Children’s Musical Theatre Classes Formerly The Junior Talisman Players

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Anna Glenn Sparks and Tina Montalvo, Directors Dee Kanevsky, Choreographer

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News • 36% of those who took the Test for Admission into Catholic High School (TACHS) were invited for an Honors or Scholars Program

For more information about Walk NYC and other organized activities sponsored by the Parks Department, visit nycgovparks.org.

Sites Show Some Love for Teachers • Graduates were awarded four year Full and/or Partial Scholarship totaling approximately $310,180 • Over the past four years, students were accepted into all Staten Island Catholic High Schools as well as Xavier, Xaverian & Regis • Over the past four years, 10% of the graduating class were “A Tradition of Excellence. A Future of Promise.” accepted by Staten Island Technical High School as well as Ms. Adele Kosinski, Principal Susan Wagner Scholars Program and Brooklyn Technical School

Call 718-761-2504 to make an appointment for a tour or additional information.

30 Wellbrook Avenue (Off Bradley Avenue)

www.saintritas.net

What better way to show some appreciation for our favorite teachers than with a moneysaving discount? Some savvy teachers may already know of a few stores that give perks when they see a valid teacher’s ID card, but there are actually 60+ places that offer steep discounts to educators. Visit siparent.com to link to the list, courtesy of Gift Card Granny.

New Police Precinct Opens For the first time in more than half a century, Staten Island welcomes a new police precinct on the West Shore. The $65.5 million dollar uniquely shaped building at 850 Richmond Avenue houses the 121st Precinct, along with 200 staff members, including around 160 police officers, detectives, and supervisors.

The new building, which is in the shape of a stapler, is noted as New York City’s first “green” precinct, built according to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver standards. As a result, it will use 25% less energy and 30% less water than similar sized buildings.

The 120th Precinct encompasses the surrounding neighborhoods of Graniteville, Travis, Bulls Head, New Springville, Mariners Harbor, Sea View, Port Richmond, and Castleton Corners. Precinct personnel are in charge of four patrol sections on the West and North Shores.

Eden II Awarded Grant

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The New York City Council has given a grant of $1,513,000 toward Eden II’s newest autism center on Staten Island. The building, located at 15 Beach Street, will include Smart Board classroom and conference rooms and offices, and $1 million of the grant will go towards furnishings and supplies for the building. The remaining $513,000 will go towards the renovation of the existing building and parking lot.

Eden II received additional funding from members of the council for other endeavors:

S.I. LIVING Community & School News James Oddo helped fund the SI Soccer Team, Vincent Ignizio helped fund Eltingville Lutheran classrooms, and Debi Rose contributed to the exterior murals at Beach Street.

There’s more good news: Eden II is making great strides towards its capital campaign, having raised (at press time) $7.23 million towards its $7.5 million goal. Contact Erika Hellstrom, Director of Development and Public Relations, at ehellstrom@eden2.org to see how you can help this amazing organization reach its goal and continue to support autistic children and adults on Staten Island.

S.I. Student Wins Kohl’s Scholarship Each year, the Kohl’s Cares(R) Scholarship Program grants close to 200 student volunteers with $1,000 college scholarships. More than 35,000 students were nominated for scholarships this year, and 15 young people from the New York area won scholarships this year, including Staten Island’s own Sean Egan.

Sean, who is 17, was singled out by the scholarship program because of his work with Hearing Our Heroes, the student organization he created as a way of coping with the loss of his father on 9/11. Hearing Our Heroes is dedicated to supporting those brave military men and women who protect our country. Sean and his volunteers have collected more than $20,000 in donations and supplies since its inception. Sean now gets the chance to qualify for a larger scholarship of $10,000. Good luck, Sean!

New Peanut-Free Hot Lunch Policy at St. Rita’s School A reader contacted us and told us about the new hot lunch program at St. Rita’s School that will be exclusively featuring peanut-free lunch and dessert items. Students are still permitted to bring PB & J sandwiches for lunch from home, however, so separate seating for allergic students is aimed at keeping them safe while dining.

Let us know by email to info@siparent.com or post on our Facebook page what your school is doing to keep their students healthy and safe.

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718-351-3168 • 99 New Dorp Plaza (near the train) www.AcademicAdvantageSI.com AUGUST 2013

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NEW MOMS

>>>

BREASTFEEDING BASICS:

Secrets for a Successful Beginning

ometimes the natural way of feeding your baby doesn’t come naturally at all. Many new mothers are surprised at how hard nursing can be at first.

When the baby books say breast is best, getting it right can be frustrating, and mothers who struggle to breastfeed may feel they are failing their baby.

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What the books may not say is that not all babies adapt easily to nursing. Some babies are fussy and others won’t latch on. With patience and persistence, new mothers and babies can learn about nursing together. If mothers follow a few basic tips, nursing can be the intimate, soothing experience we all have read about.

SIMPLE TIPS TO GET THE MOST OUT OF BREASTFEEDING.

Get Ready Get Comfy

Find a comfortable, serene place to sit and feed your baby.

The room doesn’t need to be silent. Every baby must become accustomed to the sounds around the house. However, the early days of nursing should take place in a spot where the mother can relax. Try lying in bed so you can rest while the baby nurses. If you sit in a chair, use a pillow to prop the arm where the baby will rest. This way, you won’t tire as easily or strain yourself trying to hold your arm at the right level. Take deep breaths. Drink a cup of chamomile tea. Sometimes stress can inhibit milk flow and relaxing can help your milk let down.

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Position the baby so her entire body faces your body and the baby’s head rests in the crook of your arm near your breast. If the baby is lying on your lap face up and needs to turn her head to nurse, she may not be able to latch on correctly. If you hold her head in your hand instead of letting it rest on your arm, she may react to the pressure of your hand and push her head back, instead of relaxing toward the breast.

Latch On

Lift the breast and hold it toward the baby’s mouth to help her latch on. She will likely “root” around until she lands on

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the nipple. Make sure the baby takes the whole areola in her mouth. If she catches just the nipple, it will be painful for you and difficult for her to nurse. If a pinching pain occurs when she begins to suckle, don’t yank her off the breast. This can make the pain much worse. Take your pinky finger and put it in the corner of her mouth to break the suction. Back her off the breast and try to reposition her onto the nipple. If she is in the correct position, there should be no pain.

Instead, your milk should release and the pressure of your full breast should be relieved.

After two to five minutes, switch the baby to the other breast. Nursing from both breasts will encourage milk supply and help avoid engorgement and clogged milk ducts. As your baby becomes a better nurser and your breasts become less sensitive, you can leave the baby longer on each breast.

Take Care

ASK UR TO ABOU E

S HOU IES T PAR

Some new mothers may experience cracked or bleeding nipples in the first few weeks of nursing. This usually occurs because the baby is not positioned correctly while nursing or has had trouble latching on. To soothe cracked nipples, try these simple, inexpensive remedies: apply warm tea bags or compresses before and after nursing; smooth lanolin over the sore area; take a mild pain reliever about a half hour before nursing to ease the pain; change breast pads often to keep nipples dry. If problems with pain or bleeding persist, consult your doctor or lactation consultant.

Breastfeeding is not always as automatic or easy as it looks. But with determination and a little inside information, every mother can offer her baby the strongest possible start.

By Mary Helen Berg, a freelance writer who has spent four years of her life breastfeeding her three children.

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MILESTONES

>>>

POTTY TRAINING TIME!

ummer time is the most popular time to initiate the potty-training process.

Some parents face this milestone with eager anticipation, while others enter this stage with the fear reserved for confronting a major battle.

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Below are some tips and advice from Elizabeth Pantley, author of The No-Cry Potty Training Solution to inspire you and your little trainee: At the start of the grand adventure that is teaching a child to use the toilet, many parents wonder how they'll ever accomplish such a complex feat. They watch their toddler with his brand-new potty bowl on his head and doubt the sanity that convinced them to purchase it in the first place. The good news is that the vast majority of children are able to master daytime toileting by the age of three-and-a-half or so, and for most families it's a pleasant, even fun, experience.

POTTY TRAINING TAKES PATIENCE AND PRAISE.

When your child is learning to use the potty, should you give lots of applause and praise or simple, matter-of-fact acceptance? Which is the right response for potty-training success? If you research this seemingly simple question, you'll get adamant advice on both ends of the spectrum. Some experts say you should give lots and lots of positive feedback, including a party-like atmosphere - with noisemakers, cake and party hats. Others say you should avoid getting overly excited or emotional and simply acknowledge in a calm way that he's done well.

What's the right answer to "How much praise?"

Teaching your child how to use the toilet can, and should, be as natural as teaching him to build a block tower or use a spoon. Don't overthink the details.

subtle praise. Even two different children in the same family will respond better to different levels of enthusiasm.

Probably the best advice is to do what comes naturally and what seems to encourage your child to keep trying. What's most important is that you want your child to know that you support him, and that you are proud of his efforts along the way, as well as his successes.

A reminder to be patient!

This whole potty-training process takes time. On average, it takes three to twelve months from the start of training to daytime toilet independence. The more readiness skills that a child possesses, the quicker the process will be.

Keep in mind that the age that a child masters toileting has absolutely no correlation to future abilities or intelligence. Some of the brightest kids take the longest to potty train!

The right answer to "How much praise" is that the right answer is different for every parent and child pair. Some parents are naturally more enthusiastic about everything their child does whether it's taking the first step, building a block tower or tinkling in the potty. Other parents tend to be more reserved.

You probably won't feel confident to completely turn over your child's toileting to him for many months. So, relax, be patient, and enjoy the journey. Children are only little for a very short time - it's nice to enjoy and embrace every single moment.

Children need different things from their parents, too. Some children thrive on their parent's energy and will do anything for a round of applause; other children are easily overwhelmed and prefer more

Excerpted with permission by McGraw-Hill Publishing from The No-Cry Potty Training Solution (McGraw-Hill) by Elizabeth Pantley http://www.pantley.com/elizabeth

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GOOD SPORTS

by Joe LoVerde

THE GOOD OL’ DAYS Like most Staten Islanders, I’m in the car a lot. I’m often on Fr. Capodanno Boulevard, Hylan Boulevard and New Dorp Lane. On occasion, I will drive along Lamberts Lane and Victory Boulevard. I pass a lot of parks, see a lot of ball fields and basketball courts. And most of the time, except for the occasional parent and child kicking or throwing a ball around, those parks are pretty much empty.

Growing up on Staten Island in the 1960s and ‘70s, that wasn’t the case at all. The parks were almost always packed with kids engaged in some sort of athletic activity. So were many vacant lots and even streets.

The challenge was in finding an empty field to play on.

When’s the last time you saw kids playing two-hand touch football on your block? Does anyone even play stickball anymore?

You didn’t need organized sports back then. You just walked out the front door and into a game — or so it seemed.

I couldn’t wait until I was old enough to play in the street. And when we had more time, Willowbrook Park was just a few blocks away.

Every Saturday morning when there was no snow on the ground, at like 8 a.m., kids from my entire neighborhood would meet in front of my house. I’d look out the window and they were already throwing a ball around.

Once everyone was there — and if someone didn’t show up, you called for him or her (which meant actually going to that person’s house and ringing the doorbell, not texting them on a cell phone) — we headed for the fields of Willowbrook or even Hillside Swim Club, which had a baseball field and basketball courts and no fences, and no desire to kick us out even though it was a private club. We were just there to play.

We’d choose up sides and play all day, either baseball or football, depending on what was in season. You didn’t have to choose one and play it year-round, the way the organized teams try to force you to these days.

There were neighborhood games. We were the Brentwood Junior Lancers, named because we lived in a development called

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Brentwood Homes. We’d play Travis or “Spring Village” in baseball or tackle football.

We didn’t need coaches or an umpire or a referee. If there was a disagreement, we would debate until a decision was made. If neither side budged, we’d probably have a “do over.”

There were no parents around, either, to get us a drink or cheer or carry our equipment or criticize our play when it was over. Our parents were working or at home and knew we’d return in time for dinner.

We didn’t need large groups to have a game. Charlie Arcuri and I were the unofficial two-base slap ball champs of New Springville, mostly because Charlie was the only guy who could catch a pegged “Spaldeen.”

My brother Gerard and I played hundreds of touch football games against the Schoepfer brothers, Jim and Steve — and never won. Never! Jim — who went on to star in football at Port Richmond HS and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and was invited to Jets training camp afterward — could not be covered in the neighborhood. Steve always played quarterback and no matter where he threw the ball, Jim would catch it. But the fun wasn’t in winning; it was just playing.

If a car came down the block, you moved out of the way, and if one came down during the middle of a play the driver would wait patiently until the play was over. Sometimes the driver would get out of the car and ask to take a swing or throw a pass.

But those days are long gone.

Nowadays, you can drive down the street without having to stop for kids playing stickball, or most of the time fly a kite in a park without having to dodge some kind of ball.

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Sedation is available in our office as well as in the hospital.

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And that’s a shame.

Joe LoVerde has been coaching youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years.

He’s also a longtime newspaper editor.

718.967.2412 www.smallworlddental.com Most insurances accepted as full or partial payment.

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NEW MOM LESSONS

>>>

SIX MONTHS OF MOTHERHOOD

n the six short months since my daughter Avery was born, I’ve learned so much about my new role that I feel like I’ve been a mother my entire life. Now tasks that I was previously clueless about, like diaper-changing or bottlemaking, can practically be done with my eyes closed!

I

Throughout my pregnancy and during the first few weeks of motherhood, I was the recipient of a plethora of wellintentioned advice—some I now wish I heeded and some I’m happy I ignored. Mostly, I’ve found, this maze of motherhood is one you have to navigate using your own sonar.

PREGNANCY IS JUST THE BEGINNING OF THE JOYS OF MOTHERHOOD. The most frequent comment I hear, whether from family members or total just the other day when she realized she could fit her entire strangers, is how quickly babies grow. Although it’s only been foot in her mouth. a short time, I can’t stress enough how true this is! This first became evident to me when, in her first few weeks of life, These six months have also taught me that, even though I Avery quickly outgrew all the adorable (yet tiny) outfits and will always strive, there is no such thing as a perfect mother. onesies I stocked her dresser and closet with: dresses with Instinctively, we try to shield our babies from pain or bows, frilly little skirts, and teeny-tiny skinny jeans. They discomfort, but there are some circumstances that are seemed to fit her fine one day and were inches too small the beyond our control. Every stomachache, ailment, bump, or next! bruise is more agony for us than for the baby. I know one day I will look back and wish her biggest pain was an just upset While all of the outfits were beautiful and greatly stomach, but all I can do is continue to make sure she is appreciated, they really weren’t very practical. As a newborn, healthy and happy.

Avery lived in her cozy pajamas and onesies, having no patience for being stuffed into elaborate outfits with all kinds After attending a few “Baby & Me” classes at the Tottenville of zippers and buttons. Since I had to change her outfit library, I was able to witness firsthand the many different several times a day, it wasn’t realistic to spend fifteen minutes approaches to motherhood. While the other women and I struggling to put her into an outfit that she was only going shared stories. I realized that parenthood is a unique journey to wear for a few hours while she was sleeping. The girly for each one of us. Now that I am a “seasoned” mom, I can ensembles will have to wait. offer my own advice on baby care to new mothers. I know, though, that with time, every mother will get to really know Six months have now passed by in the blink of an eye, and their own baby and will be able to figure out what is the right one thing I’ve learned is the importance of always having a path for their own family. camera on hand to capture all those milestones I enjoy

By Sarah Wieboldt, a Staten Island mom who is enjoying (and reliving- from her first moments at home and her first bath to photographing!) every precious milestone her daughter Avery reaches.

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SUMMER FUN

>>>

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR 'STAYCATION'

hen the economy took a turn for the worse several years ago, many families had to cut costs in order to make ends meet. For many families, that meant leaving vacations on the cutting room floor. While the economy has rebounded, uncertainty surrounding that comeback has prevailed for many families, who remain hesitant to book a traditional vacation for fear of spending money they might be better off saving.

W

The sacrifice of traditional vacations has led many families to embrace the "staycation," wherein families still take time off to be with one another but do so largely at home rather CHECK THE FAMILY CALENDAR ONLINE AT SIPARENT.COM FOR AN UPDATED LIST OF FUN LOCAL EVENTS FOR YOUR FAMILY. than heading off to an exotic locale or resort. A staycation is a your local theater or explore a nearby park, be it for a day of great way for families to rediscover their own communities and hiking or a more laid back picnic in the sun. This can help spend quality time together without the hustle and bustle of everyone reacquaint themselves with the reasons you chose to airports or interstates. Families who still find themselves settle down in your community. hesitant to commit to a more traditional vacation can heed the following tips to ensure their staycation is a success.

Go camping. Just because you're having a staycation doesn't mean you have to stay home. Spend a few nights away from Go out to dinner. Part of the fun of a family vacation is home by taking the family on a camping trip. The fee to stay at getting to enjoy some nights out on the town. But even if a nearby campsite is negligible when compared to the cost of you're not straying far from home this year, you can still enjoy hotel rooms for an entire family, and you won't spend nearly as the cuisine your community has to offer. Dine out a few nights much on food because you'll need to bring your own to the during your time off, making sure to enjoy a few different campsite.

Camp during the week instead of on the weekends, restaurants instead of relying on one your family frequents and you might have more of the campground to yourself. throughout the year. Dining out on a weeknight will create the feel of a more traditional vacation, and you might just find a new restaurant you and your family love and can revisit in the years to come.

Absorb the local culture. The daily grind has a way of making life hectic, and chances are you and your family don't get to enjoy your own community's culture throughout the year. Take advantage of the time afforded you by your staycation to soak up all the culture and recreational activities your community has to offer. Visit nearby museums, take in a performance at

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Head for the beach. Access to the water and the beach is readily available for Staten Islanders who wish to spend part of their staycation with some sand between their toes and the sound of waves crashing on the shorelines in their ears. Make time to visit the beach on your staycation, and you might be able to recreate the feeling of a more traditional getaway.

Staycations have become a staple for families looking to avoid expensive resort vacations. But staying close to home can still be just as fun as traveling abroad.

Summer 2013

FIREWORKS TIMES, LOCATION & EVENTS MAY CHANGE. VERIFY WITH VENUE BEFORE ATTENDING.

Jenkinson’s Fireworks at Dark Date: Thursdays, Now through August 29 and Monday, September 2 Time: At sundown Cost: Free Location: Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742 Contact: 732-892-0600 www.jenkinsons.com The September 2nd fireworks display will begin with a Music Festival Finale at 7:30pm.

Room for 16 Players Inside 8 More Players Outside (weather permitting) 2 PS3, 2 XBOX and 3 Wii Stations Extensive Game Library ~Heated & Fully Air-Conditioned For All Seasons~

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Friday Night Fireworks at Wildwood Date: Fridays, Now through August 30 Time: 10pm Cost: Free Location: Pine Avenue & the Beach Contact: 609-523-1602 www.dowildwood.com

Back to the Beach Celebration at Midland Beach Date: Saturday, August 17 Time: 9pm Cost: Free Location: Midland Beach Sea Turtle Circle Contact: www.statenislandusa.com All day event beginning at noon.

End of the Summer Doo Wop Concert and Fireworks at Midland Beach Date: Friday, August 30 Time: 9pm Cost: Free Location: Midland Beach Sea Turtle Circle Contact: www.statenislandusa.com Concert will begin at 6:30pm.

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FELINE FRIENDS

>>>

THE DOGMA OF CATS: Feline Philosophies for a Fulfilling Life

e often think the keys to happiness are hidden in distant places, the deep recesses and highest heights of our world, kept in close guard by a humble monk or dynamic guru. These bits of philosophical brilliance dispensed only after we demonstrate tremendous sacrifice of time, energy or money to get there. Bah! Who can get to a mountaintop these days?

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Although I am one of the first to acknowledge nature is a powerful conduit to accessing our soul’s calling, the truth is…wisdom is all around us and we need only look to what surrounds us for the answers to the great questions in life. Can our best teachers come in the form of friends, the flowers in the front yard and even cats? Yes, I said it…cats.

THERE ARE MANY LESSONS WE CAN LEARN FROM OUR FURRY FRIENDS.

I admit it fully - I am a cat person. The often joked about “crazy cat lady” who is surrounded by felines in her home and does all she can to care for the local strays and the feral fluffy ones on the block. Our back porch always has little bowls of food and water for whoever chooses to saunter by. We work with the animal control officer to safely trap and neuter to keep the colony numbers in check. As if we have a kitty rescue sign on our door, many cats in trouble have found their way to us and we are happy to help them. I’ve always felt connected to cats. I get them and they get me.

The inspiration to further explore the wisdom of cats came after witnessing a loved one’s painful predicament. A childhood companion, a mutual cat lover, was going through a miserable time in life. His difficulties, mostly self-created from poor choices and addiction, pulled him into a very dark place in which he lost his career, marriage and many friends. It was tough to try to help, as he continued to cater to his ego and worried only about maintaining facades and spinning the facts to his favor. Like many others spiraling in crisis, he had little desire to delve deep and truly process his pain for the needed transcendence. He didn’t take my calls and I had to face the fact, he didn’t want my assistance, not as a spiritual advisor and not as a friend. He didn’t want to relate to people and only asked to be left alone with his cats. “If only he listened to his

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cats,” I thought. Cats know how to be happy, they know when to seek help and they will teach you profound lessons, if you are willing to learn.

Would humans be better off if we stopped personifying our beloved pets and began instead to allow ourselves to be “cat-ified?”

With a new focus on discovering the beliefs, which make up the dogma of cats, I began to observe cat behavior with greater interest and concentration. How wonderful it would be to teach our children to look with us to our animal companions for guidance on happiness and heart-wisdom! To step away from the ego obsessions associated with modern humanity and learn to simply be…at a more cat-like pace. It was time to look deeper and see what all the purring was about.

The cats didn’t let me down. I witnessed this species of subtle sages demonstrate a slinky mindfulness and great respect of the world around them. Cats are healers. Cats are persistent and adaptable. Cats are wise. Here is just a small sample of the feline philosophies, which can help you and your family live a more fulfilling life: Find Fun in Everything: Cats know how to have a good time. Yarn, paper bags, flickering sunlight and blowing leaves can all lead to

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Show Affection: Nothing is more comforting than cuddling up with a pet, whether it’s a cat or a dog. Animals innately know when we need their love and they eagerly shower us with nuzzles, rubs and kisses. You know where you stand with a cat as they express their needs and feelings freely without fear of judgment.

We can take a lesson from our feline friends by showing how we feel to those we love.

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hours of stimulation, free entertainment and exercise for a cat. The simplest of items become toys in their paws. It’s a powerful lesson for us. Where can we find our free fun in the simple moments?

Know When to Rest: The act of grabbing a nap in the middle of the day has been named for these smart critters! No animal is more known for its ability to lounge frequently and bask in the warmth of the sun. When you’re feeling depleted, catch a catnap to restore your energy and be ready to play.

Appreciate Your Unique Beauty: Despite having a tattered ear, snaggletooth, and an occasional flea in their fur, cats know at their core they are wonderful. Not an arrogant beauty or one that comes from putting up a false front, cats exude a confidence and grace simply by being themselves, in whatever form that takes. A stray is often as lovely as a show cat and neither judges the other for it. What a life we could lead if we all thought of each other as cool cats!

So next time you are feeling overwhelmed, when life doesn’t seem to be going your way, look to feline wisdom.

The dogma of cats just may save the day!

By Deb Snyder, PhD, an inspirational speaker, spiritual teacher and the award-winning author of The Dogma of Cats for Kids and Intuitive Parenting: Listening to the Wisdom of Your Heart. • www.heartglowliving.com.

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DEAR TEACHER

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Question: My daughter will be starting first grade next week. She did fine moving from preschool to kindergarten. What do I need to do to make her transition from kindergarten to first grade go smoothly? -- Anxious

Solid Advice on Improving Children’s Basic Skills and Addressing Parental Concerns

Answer: Stop being anxious. The more anxious you are, the more anxious your child is likely to be. Teachers are used to making the first days go smoothly for children entering first grade. Nevertheless, you daughter does need your help so that she can develop the right attitude and confidence to start first grade out on the right foot. Here are some things that you can do at home to help you and your child make the transition from the less-structured days of summer to the more-structured school routine: ~ Visit the school with your child if she is not familiar with the building. ~ Put the school routine in place a few days before school begins by having your child get up and go to bed at the times necessary for school. ~ Get all the supplies requested by the school so your child can take them to school on the very first day. ~ Set up playdates with other children who will be in her class.

It really helps children to see a familiar face in the classroom during the first days back at school. ~ Go over transportation arrangements to and from school, and practice bus and walking safety tips. ~ Make sure your child understands where she will be before and after school. ~ Carefully read all the material that the school has sent to you. ~ Schedule a physical exam to make sure your child is healthy. ~ Be sure the child's immunizations are up to date.

What to Tell Children About Inhalants Question: My 7-year-old daughter recently confided in me that some friends of hers were breathing felt-tip markers to get high. I pointed out to her that this was a very stupid thing to do and could even kill them. What else should I have said to her? -Very Concerned Answer: Unfortunately, children are discovering that common household products are the easiest way to get high. Depending on the level of dosage, users can experience slight stimulation, feelings of less inhibition, loss of consciousness and even death.

The National Inhalant Prevention Coalition (NIPC) states that by the time a student reaches eighth grade, one in five will have

used inhalants. According to the NIPC, education about inhalants should begin as early as age 4. Be careful not to tell too much too soon, rely on scare tactics, or give details on how to use inhalants. Here are some of their suggestions for talking to 7 to 10 year olds.

Organization Is Essential for Academic Success Parents: Being organized is the No. 1 skill that will lead to your children's academic success in school. You will need to start early to develop organizational skills in your children. A big part of this lies in establishing routines.

What your children do to get themselves ready for school each day and to handle assignments should increase at each level until they are doing everything without any parental reminders. Here is our list of organizational skills that children need to acquire when they first start school: ~ Bringing home their school bag daily ~ Showing parents the contents of their bag ~ Putting everything being returned to school in their school bag before going to bed or at a selected time ~ Keeping the school bag in the same spot every day ~ Selecting clothes to be worn the next day with their parents before bedtime

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How to Find the Best Educational Apps Question: Rather than have my children just play games on mobile devices; I'd like them to use some of the best educational apps. How do I go about finding the cream of the crop of apps? -- For Quality Answer: If you go online and search for educational apps, you will find an amazing number of lists, from moms and dads to stores selling apps. Many of these lists will be helpful.

Others simply will simply have no value. We have found one list that does stand out -- the list from Parents' Choice (parents-choice.org). Their awards program honors the best material for children, including books, toys, music and storytelling, magazines, software, video games, websites and now apps.

Their awards committee has been looking for products that entertain and teach with flair, imagination and inspire creativity for almost 30 years. The judges look for products that help children grow: socially, intellectually, emotionally, ethically and physically. Above all, products must not extol violence.

Look for the free Dear Teacher iPhone app in the App Store that is coming sometime this month. It offers immediate access to such topics as your children’s reading level, kindergarten readiness and much more.

Parents should send questions to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ website at www.dearteacher.com.

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COLLEGE BOUND

>>>

CONQUERING COLLEGE CRUNCH TIME Fifteen Things to Do the Week Before College

he wait is almost over.

In just seven days, your first semester of college will begin. Before you sit down in that first class, here are fifteen must-dos to guarantee you the best possible semester:

T

1. Figure out where you’re going and how you’re going to get there. Your college experience will be off to a bad start if you discover on the first day that there are no spaces left in Lot 32 or that the bus doesn’t stop at where you thought it did. Always have a Plan A and a Plan B in regards to transportation. And while you’re at it, figure out where your classes are going to meet.

You wouldn’t want to show up at 411 Old Main, only to find the class is at 411 New Main.

FOLLOW SOME SIMPLE TIPS TO MAKE THE TRANSITION TO COLLEGE SMOOTH.

2. Figure out where you’re going to eat. Are you going to be taking lunch to classes, hitting up the dining hall, or going back to your dorm or apartment to eat? And what about Sunday nights, when (for who knows what reason) the food service in the dorms is closed? Hey, you can’t do this college thing without proper nourishment.

3. Plan an exercise routine. Colleges invest gazillions of dollars in world-class exercise facilities. Go over to one of them, pick up a barbell, and imagine yourself doing this three times a week. (At least you’ll have a sound body in which to preserve your, we hope, sound mind.)

4. Get some proper beverage equipment. Almost every lecture or discussion section will go better with a piping hot caffeinated drink. So hoof on over to the local superstore or coffee bistro and buy the biggest spill-proof stainless steel thermos you can find. Even if the lectures are not so hot, at least you’ll be awake and not spilling coffee on the legs of your pants (or worse). (Non-coffee-drinkers should consider

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tea, vitamin water, or whatever your favorite non-caffeinated beverage is.)

5. Buy the tomes. Get the list of required textbooks from either your college bookstore or online course page. Then check out prices at both brick-and-mortar bookstores and online sites (including marketplace and book-renting sites).

5-Star Tip: For all book modalities (print, e-, and rentals), check out the aggregators (sometimes called meta-sites): These are websites that compare the prices of many other bookselling websites. Two we especially like are cheapesttextbooks.com and bigwords.com (others include bestpricebooks.com, campusbooks.com, textbooks.com, and, for rentals, textbookrentals.com).

Best-Kept Secret: Many “classic” books are available for free on the web, thanks to Project Gutenberg, gutenberg.org. See if your book is one of them.

6. Start calendaring. Get a good electronic or print calendar and start entering your time commitments right

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away: when your classes meet, when you plan to study, what the assignments are, and when they’re due. Some e-calendars we like are Google Calendar, iStudiez, AirSet, 30 Boxes, and iCal (for Mac). Of course, if you have an iPad or iPhone, do your calendaring there.

7. Get some apps. If you’re one of the 100 million or so people worldwide who owns an iPhone, you’ll want to get some apps especially tailored to college. Some we like include: • iStudiez Pro (organizing your schedule) • Pocket Lists (to-do lists) • Evernote (note taking) • Wikipanion (Wikipedia) • Mental Case and Flashcards++ (flashcards) • Chegg (study help) • Graphing Calculator (just like the handheld model, and includes screenshots) • The Chemical Touch (periodic table) • Instapaper (stores web pages) • iTranslator (translations for your language courses) • Dictionary.com (lots of words you don’t know) • Blackboard Learn (hooks up with your school’s course management and grade reporting system) • My GPA Calculator (includes “what if” scenarios so you can fantasize about getting an A in that killer statistics course)

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Middle States Accredited Before & After Care Available

8. Get the word. You’ll need a password to access the university portal (which is where you’ll find course web pages, library e-resources, your enrollment status and grades, and online registration in semesters to come). Get it now if you can; if not, take the time to think of a secure password. Also take advantage of your free university e-mail account: Professors will be happier getting papers from jeremy.hyman@ucla.edu than from jeremythestud@mondohotbodies.com.

9. Visit the books—including the electronic ones. Make your way over to the library and see where the books and journals are shelved. And while you’re at it, look at the electronic resources at your library’s home page. See how the databases and e-resources are organized (many college web portals have very

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useful “top 10 lists”) and imagine yourself actually using them. With any luck, you will.

10. Scout out the services. When you have some extra time, take a self-guided campus tour and check out the various “offices:” advising center; writing center; math and computer labs; tutoring center; and centers for nontraditional students, first-generation students, international students, single parents, and veterans.

Hey, who knows, you might actually want to use one someday!

11. Find yourself a cave. You won’t want to spend much time during the semester trying, then retrying, all kinds of study places. Figure out where you think you’ll study best, then christen this place as your study spot. Maybe it’s a lounge in your dorm, a secluded corner of the library, or even your own desk.

12. Rein in the folks. Set some limits on your parents, especially if your dad—or mom—is the type who’ll be texting you the two hours a day that he or she isn’t calling you.

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13. Meet the prof. For the really bold, there’s the visit to the professor’s office to find out a little more about the course and distinguish yourself from the nameless masses. Don’t be put off, though, if the professor is too busy to visit with you (he or she might be rushing to polish up the syllabus or figure out what to say in the first week of lectures).

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14. Go clubbing. While you still have some free time, it’s nice to see what kinds of student clubs and teams your college has to offer. And even if you don’t want to join in on the fun, the look-see will give you a better feel for what’s going on at the school and what the students are like.

15. Take a breath. Fifteen weeks—or one semester—is a long haul. Don’t get wound up too quickly. There’ll be plenty of time for panic once the semester sets in!

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JOIN US ON FACEBOOK

By Dr. Lynn F. Jacobs and Jeremy S. Hyman, coauthors of The Secrets of College Success: Over 800 Tips, Techniques, and Strategies Revealed, 2nd Edition • www.professorsguide.com.

AUGUST 2013

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EYE SAFETY

>>>

PROTECTING VISION IN THE SUMMERTIME

ummer is the time for kids to be playing with friends, spending time outdoors and exploring the world outside of the classroom.

Unfortunately, it is also the season children and adults are most likely to suffer injuries to the eyes from trauma and accidents. Each year, 2.5 million people suffer from eye injuries with 1400 of those being caused by fireworks. These injuries can result in permanent loss of vision, even blindness, and many of these injuries can be prevented and their severity minimized by prompt evaluation and medical treatment. As medical practitioners who care for children USE OF PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR CAN HELP REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF EYE TRAUMA. with eye and vision problems, the Association for Pediatric emergency department or with an ophthalmologist: a medical Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) wants all parents to doctor who specializes in treatment of eye and vision problems. know how to prevent eye injuries and what to do if a child Bring the chemical with you as this will help determine the sustains an eye injury. correct treatment.

S

Prevention is the most important step. Children should never have access to fireworks, whether they are approved “safe and sane” and especially if they are illegal. If you are at a summer celebration, let the professionals handle the fireworks.

A second way to prevent eye injuries is by using protective eyewear when playing sports or doing projects around the house. Children playing hockey, racquetball, and even baseball, should be provided with helmets, facemasks or protective eyewear. Adults and children should always wear protective eyewear when operating power tools, lawn equipment and when working with machinery. Children who see adults taking precautions will grow up being more careful themselves.

If a child or an adult sustains an injury to the eye: Step one: If a chemical is accidently splashed into the eye, rinse the eye thoroughly with water, then immediately call your child’s doctor, poison control center or emergency department for advice. They will likely advise you to seek care at an

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Step two: If a child receives blunt trauma (ball, fist, or fall) or sharp trauma (stick or projectile) seek medical care immediately.

The physician will check the vision, examine the surface of the eye with special magnifying instruments and may obtain x-rays or MRI to evaluate for fractures in the bones surrounding the eye. Examination by or referral to an ophthalmologist may be necessary, as they will be able to perform more thorough examination and perform surgery if needed.

Step Three: Keep your follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist. Children who sustain injuries to the eyes are at increased risk for long-term problems which can lead to vision impairment long after the initial injury. For example, treatable conditions such as glaucoma (high eye pressure) and retinal detachments can be prevented and treated with appropriate long-term care.

Provided by the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) www.aapos.org.

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AUGUST 2013

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53

GROWING UP ONLINE

by Carolyn Jabs

In general, families run better with good rules, so it’s not surprising that parents want to make rules about how kids use technology. Lots of organizations have offered well-intended versions of online do’s and don’ts. And plenty of Contracts for parents have written about their efforts to create guidelines governing what kids can Connected and can’t do with computers, video games Families and cellphones. (Perhaps the most celebrated recent attempts was a list of iPhone rules, written by Janel Hoffman, that went viral earlier this year. http://tinyurl.com/m4w2am4) Although rules have their place, they don’t last long online. A rule that seemed perfectly reasonable yesterday may be outdated (and easy to ignore) tomorrow. In such a rapidly evolving environment, many parents are turning to something more flexible—contracts that they write—and rewrite—with their children. One particularly engaging example of this kind of contract was written by Dr. Lynn Schofield Clark, author of The Parenting App: Understanding Families in the Digital Age. (http://tinyurl.com/kh83kaz)

ACTING SCHOOL FOR PRE TEENS & TEENS

Clark says her goal was to “put learning first,” by encouraging her kids to think for themselves about what kinds of online experiences were good for their family. She was also open to the possibility that her kids would want to make rules about her use of technology. Although her approach might not work in every family, it does lay the groundwork for open conversations, making it more likely that children will turn to parents if they encounter online situations that are confusing or risky.

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The kind of Technology Contract likely to work in your household will, of course, depend upon the ages and inclinations of your kids.

Regardless of age, here are some questions that need to be considered: What interactive devices are being used in our family? You’ll want different rules for cellphones, tablets, computers and gaming systems.

If family members share equipment, you may need to establish priorities—for example, homework takes precedence over games and social media. Your contract can also specify how you will share interactive experiences. Will you play games together? Share videos?

Create a shared album of favorite digital photos?

What kind of supervision makes sense? The right kind of supervision makes kids feel safer and reinforces a sense of conscience. Will you check the phone bill for calls to numbers you don’t recognize? Will you use monitoring software that alerts you if your child strays onto an adult website or sends too much personal information? Be open about what you plan to do and why.

How much time should we spend online? Think about when it’s OK or even necessary to be connected. When is it important to be offline?

As individuals? As a family? Some parents set up a docking station for cellphones in the kitchen or family room. At agreed upon times, all devices go to sleep.

What information are we willing to share online? What one person posts on a social media site often has implications for other family members, so it’s important to discuss what can be shared online. Is it ever appropriate to post an address or phone number?

How much are you willing to divulge about where you live, what you are doing and family activities including vacations? When is it OK for parents to post pictures of kids and vice versa?

How will we keep our family Internet system secure? You have rules about locking the door when you leave the house. Establish similar policies about online security. Is it ever OK to share passwords with anyone except parents? What are house rules about downloads including games, music and videos? Kids need to know that these often carry malware which can compromise family security.

Who is allowed to purchase things online? Think about physical items—clothing, posters—as well as virtual goods—games, music, books. Younger children should get permission for any purchase.

For teens, an online allowance may be appropriate. Like any allowance, agree in advance on terms—is the money contingent on behavior, chores, grades?

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What kinds of online activity should kids report to parents?

Being online involves trust because parents can’t supervise the way they can in other settings. Establish the expectation that your child will come to you immediately if he or she encounters bullying, sexting or any kind of invitation from online strangers.

What are the penalities for breaking the contract? Losing access to a device is an obvious consequence (for adults as well as kids).

Your contract might also include the possibility of additional monitoring for family members who don’t follow the rules.

When will we renegotiate the contract? As kids demonstrate online responsibility, they should be able to earn new technology privileges.

To be honest, in many families, your kids (or your spouse) will roll their eyes if you suggest drawing up an actual contract. Remember that the point of this exercise isn’t necessarily to get something in writing. Instead, you want to have ongoing conversations that help you understand how your children are using technology. Only then can you make rules that will help your kids become as safe and responsible online as they are in the real world.

Technology Contracts for Families If you aren’t inclined to write your own Technology Contract, you may find a template that works for your family online. Visit siparent.com to see links to several good options.

By Carolyn Jabs, M.A., who raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has written Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses conflict. Other columns are available at www.growing-up-online.com. @ Copyright, 2013. Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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MONEY TIPS

>>>

TIME YOUR MOVE RIGHT TO SAVE MONEY

uying a new home is the most expensive purchase a person is likely to make in his or her lifetime. It also can be one of the more stressful. The Employee Relocation Council states that moving is the third most stressful event in life, following death and divorce. But a well-timed move can reduce stress and save money.

B

Moving during certain times of the year can result in considerable savings. Moving during the summer, when children are out of school and the weather is nice, can make a move more manageable.

Keep in mind that because late spring and summer are the peak moving seasons, they also tend to be more expensive. Many moving companies and truck rental agencies will charge a premium if you use their services during the summer. Furthermore, crews may change in the summer when students on vacation could fill in for regular, more experienced movers.

IF YOU ARE BUYING A NEW HOUSE OR MOVING INTO A DIFFERENT APARTMENT, FOLLOWING THESE TIPS CAN HELP SAVE YOU TIME AND MONEY.

High prices are not only reserved for those who buy a new house during the spring and summer. Renters may find spring and summer is also the peak season for rentals. Many apartment managers can attest that the dates between June 2 and August 30 are quite busy in terms of apartment turnover. College students are more likely to move as soon as the academic year ends, and many landlords plan leases to expire in the summer months to ensure that re-renting places will be easier thanks to a flooded apartment market. According to Apartment Wiz, a Houston-based apartment locating service, although there might be greater apartment availability during the warm-weather months, it also means greater competition between prospective tenants. That greater competition can drive up prices.

But apartments are harder to fill in the fall or at the onset of winter.

That's because many people do not want the hassle of moving once school has started or the weather has chilled. Landlords who are stuck paying utilities and advertising fees for vacant apartments are far more likely to negotiate rent prices, lease terms and even security deposits during the winter in an effort to fill the apartment quickly.

People sitting with homes on the market are also more likely to negotiate during cooler months when foot traffic has fizzled out. That can make shopping for a home in the fall advantageous to home buyers.

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Here are some other tips to reduce stress and save money when moving into a new home or apartment.

Move mid-week. Weekends are a prime time for truck rentals and moving companies. Pick a Tuesday or a Wednesday to move, and you're much more likely to find an available moving service (even during peak moving months); you may even be able to negotiate a lower rate.

Pick a mid-month moving date. Many people move at the beginning of the month when leases are up or after mortgage payments are made. Fewer people move in the middle of the month, so you might find more affordable moving deals if you can wait a few extra weeks.

Schedule a fall or winter move. The American Moving and Storage Association says half of all moves occur during one-third of the year -- between the beginning of May and Labor Day. Beat the rush by moving outside of these dates.

Get an early start. Many people underestimate the amount of time it takes to actually move their belongings. Try to schedule a moving company to come very early in the morning to give you ample time to pack up the truck and unpack at your new home.

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COVER STORY If you’re a parent, you know that children are naturally curious.

Youngsters ask question after question about every conceivable topic (plus a few you’ve never thought of before). And even before they can talk, children actively explore the world around them through all five senses.

For many children, as they grow, their curiosity is dulled instead of sharpened. They become dependent on outside influences—TVs, computers, video games, their parents, etc.—to keep them engaged and entertained, and they no longer show a strong desire to independently seek out answers and knowledge.

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that way. As a parent, there’s a lot you can do to enhance your child’s curiosity—and summer is the perfect time to help kids develop an active interest in the fascinating world around them.

Not only should you gladly answer your children’s 10 million questions; you should teach them to ask more. The fact that school’s out doesn’t mean that learning has to stop. During the summer, asking questions and developing a healthy imagination can be more fun than ever.

Helping your children strengthen their “curiosity muscles” is a wonderful gift because it enables them to continually learn, grow, and question the world they live in and sets them up for a successful future.

The truth is, curiosity and creativity are some of the most valuable skills young people can have as they prepare to enter the global economy. As professionals, they’ll have to innovate on the go, think of better ways to solve old problems, create time and money-saving solutions, and much more—and right now during childhood is when parents have the power to create that foundation.

This year, I urge parents not to let their children spend the long, sunny days of summer in front of a television or computer screen. Instead, help them to follow their curiosity and lead them out the door and into adventure. Once you begin to help your kids “see” all of the interesting questions that can be found in everyday life, they’ll soon begin to ask them naturally.

By Victoria Ryan O’Toole, author of the popular Molly Moccasins books, apps, games, and activity series, aimed at helping children find meaning, knowledge, and adventure in everyday life. • For more info, see www.mollymoccasins.com where you will find titles to complement each of the activities discussed in this article.

Summer Scenarios That Will

PEAK YOUR CHILD’S CURIOSITY

CURIOSITY-ENHANCING QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT ASK AND EXPLORE WITH YOUR CHILD. Gardening Swimming Cloud Watching & Stargazing

• How long does it take a flower to grow?

• What does a plant need to grow?

• What can you use plants for?

• Why do plants have roots?

• How many different types of plants are in your backyard or favorite park?

Fishing/Visiting an Aquarium

• What are the different swimming strokes?

• How deep is the deep end of the pool? The shallow end?

• How much does one gallon of water weigh?

• What animals or other creatures can swim?

• What creatures live and swim in salt water and which ones live or swim in fresh water?

• What is the safest position to be in if you’re in the water?

• Can you imagine a new species that can live in water? How would this creature breathe? What would it look like? How would it eat? How would it defend itself?

• What are the different types of clouds?

• What kind of shapes do you see?

• What are stars?

• What is the biggest star?

• What is a constellation? Which ones can you find?

• Can you make a book with pictures of everything you see in the clouds and stars?

Exploring Family History

Baking and Making S’mores • What do fish eat?

• Why do they live in the water?

• How do they breathe underwater?

• Can all fish live in the same type of water?

• What kind of gear do you need to go fishing?

• What is the largest/smallest fish in the world?

Hiking

• What’s the tallest mountain? How tall is it?

• What kinds of animals live in the woods?

• Why is it harder to breathe the higher you go?

• What is the longest hiking trail in the world and how long does it take to complete?

• What items are good to have with you on a hike?

• Why do cakes rise?

• What do “tbsp” and “tsp” stand for?

• Why is it important to use the correct measurements in the recipe?

• What do you need to make s’mores?

• How do you make s’mores?

• What makes the chocolate melt?

• What does sugar do in your body and where does it go?

Going to the Zoo

Setting up a Lemonade Stand

Collecting Bugs

• What bugs come out at night?

• Why do we need bugs?

• How many bugs can you name?

• What animals or creatures eat bugs?

• Name or invent a bug you would like to meet!

• What did your great-grandparents/ aunts/uncles/etc. do for a living?

• Where did they live?

• What is the origin of your last name?

• Who do you recognize in old photo albums?

• What is a family tree? Can you make one?

• What things do you have in common with others from your family? (Habits, mannerisms, physical features, etc.)

• How do you make lemonade?

• What do you need for the stand? (Poster, chairs, cups, money jar, table, etc.)

• How much does one cup cost?

• If you sell “X” cups, how much money will you make?

• How will you attract the attention of lemonade drinkers? (Ideas include dressing in a costume or making a great sign!)

• How many flavors of lemonade (like lime-ade, orange-ade, strawberry-ade, or mango-ade) can you think of? If you make these flavors, see which one is most popular and try to figure out why.

• What’s your favorite animal? What does it eat?

• Why do animals live in different habitats?

• What is the baby version of ______ called? (Ex. Lion – Cub).

• If you could have any animal in the world as a pet or friend, which would it be?

The world around you is bursting with questions to be asked and information to be learned.

Remember, curiosity is something your children were born with.

Your job is to learn how to foster your children’s natural impulses to ask questions. This summer, you may be surprised by how much fun you have in the process!

L

t Social! e G s ’ t e Posted June 6, 2013

S.I. PARENT:

It's been hot out there.

What are you and your family doing to keep cool?

COMMENTS:

Shannon Mcdonnell: Lots of fruit, water, pool, and AC.

r e t t a h C

This month on Facebook we chatted about party favors, Judy Ebanks-Jordan: Stay indoors and drink lots of water. fireworks displays, New Jersey's funnest places, the West Nile Dawn Penny Russell: Just went out to Hershey's for ice cream!

Virus, best places on the Island for a picnic, and so much more! Aside from all the input you'll get from Holly Nicole: A/C, dips in the pool (the water is warm though but still fellow Staten Islanders, it's where we refreshing). post updates on what's going on, as well as some funny cartoons – because we all need a laugh from time to time. Join us. We'd like to hear what you think!

Like us on Facebook.com/siparent to see more on these and other topics.

Join us & 6,000 of our closest friends to discuss today's issues.

It's fun!

S.I. PARENT:

Posted May 29, 2013

How old were you when you had your first child? How old were you when you had your last child?

COMMENTS:

Carolyn Clark: Gave birth to my first son at 40, adopted my second at 48. Found that love is just the same either way!

Adrienne Santiago: 20 with my first and 31 with my last. Am 32 now. Can't forget my middle baby, I was 27.

Tara Arneman Serrano: I became a mom at 28 just a few months ago.

Susan Wisniewski Rousta: I was 38 when I had my first and 41 when I had my second…and both were a natural conception…I am very blessed!

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As recently as February of this year, the American Academy of Pediatrics published updated guidelines summarizing the benefits of nourishing newborns with mother’s milk.

Breastfeeding exclusively for about six months is recommended by both the World Health Organization and the Institute of Medicine.

Exclusive breastfeeding means feeding your baby only his or her mother’s milk, avoiding all commercial infant formulas (including those available in hospitals) and sugar water.

These recommendations include continuing to breastfeed after introducing solid foods such as rice cereal around age 6 months. They also suggest that breastfeeding be continued for a year or longer, as long as it is mutually desired by both baby and mother.

Emergency Children’s Help Organization “ECHO” is a non-profit organization, whose mission is to accumulate resources to be used to benefit the welfare of a child, whose future is bleak due to the existence of a serious health, medical or living emergency. ECHO will offer monetary assistance, to help ease the financial burden, with the hope of putting a smile on the child’s face.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or younger and have a serious health, medical or living emergency issue, living in Staten Island.

Many people are under the impression that formula is often necessary for a newborn. However, there are very few medical situations in which a baby needs formula. Your pediatrician, whether right after birth in the hospital or in the office, will advise you if your baby needs any nutrition other than breast milk.

For information about ECHO or to download an application, please visit www.EchoOrganization.org

Pediatricians have learned through decades of research that babies who are exclusively breastfed have lower rates of illness both during infancy and later in childhood after breastfeeding ends.

For further information or to make a donation contact: Denise M. Stallone Tel: 866-755-ECHO (3246) • Fax: 718-967-9087

Breastfed infants have lower rates of pneumonia, ear infections, severe bronchiolitis, infectious diarrhea and

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Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Later in childhood, previously breastfed infants are at lower risk of developing allergies, eczema, asthma, illnesses of the gastrointestinal tract such as Celiac disease and Crohn’s disease, obesity, childhood diabetes, and certain types of cancers of the blood system.

Once they attend school, previously breastfed infants display higher intelligence scores and receive higher teacher ratings.

There is good news for parents of preterm babies requiring admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (approximately 12 percent of all births in the U.S.).

Preterm babies, especially vulnerable in the beginning of life, benefit tremendously from breast milk, have lower rates of infections, and shorter stays in the hospital.

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The benefits of breastfeeding also extend to the new mother.

Breastfeeding mothers have lower postpartum depression rates, are less apt to have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart diseases, and breast and ovarian cancers.

New moms counting calories work off an extra 500 calories a day breastfeeding. Families save up to $2000 a year not buying formula.

If you have questions about breastfeeding or are in need of support, your pediatrician is a wonderful resource.

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STAYING SAFE

>>> STOP

s name-calling and teasing just a part of growing up, a rite of passage that all kids go through? Are adults making too much of a fuss about it?

Speak to senior citizens and they will recall like it was yesterday, the name of the kid who tormented them in the schoolyard, or the child that stood up for them in the third grade. There are wounds that have lasted a lifetime. Bullying now has reached epidemic proportions in our schools and in cyberspace through various electronic devices. Confronting this problem should be on the forefront of every parent and school’s agenda.

I

THE

According to the United Federation of Teachers, Bias-based harassment, intimidation and/or bullying is any intentional written, verbal, or physical act that a student or group of students directs at another student or students. Such behavior includes, but is not limited, to:

As a teacher, I have witnessed the wicked ways that girls tease and torment each other. As a mother, I have seen the devastating use of social media to destroy a child’s image and self-esteem. Many Staten Islanders have seen or read about the horrendous effects as some bullied children sadly felt the need to resort to self-mutilation or ultimately, suicide.

My research on this subject included participation in a webinar on Bullying, Teen Cutting & Self-Injury Behaviors, as well as interviewing two experts in the subject: a Staten Islander Social Worker and Child Protection Agent, and an author from Ireland who has written a book and hosts a website to promote anti-bullying around the world. Clearly, these problems are not unique to the United States.

As a parent, we may not always be aware of our child’s situation in school. Working parents, for example, may not see their children directly after school and by the time they are reunited at the dinner table, the child may have diffused and not voluntarily bring the subject to surface.

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• Physical violence • Stalking

• Threats, taunts, teasing • Aggressive or menacing gestures • Exclusion from peer groups designed to humiliate or isolate • Using derogatory language • Making derogatory jokes or name-calling or slurs • Written or graphic material, including graffiti, containing comments or stereotypes that are electronically circulated or are written or printed.

There’s a good chance your kid won’t walk up to you and say, “I’m getting teased and bullied at school. The kids are calling me names.” Instead, it may manifest itself by your child saying, “I don’t want to go to school today.” If this seems to be happening a lot, consider the possibility that bullying might be the reason behind these mysterious sick days. Also, look for signs that kids are hurting themselves. Selfmutilation can be a sign. For boys, one classic symptom of being teased too much is that they are terrified to go to the bathroom. They won’t go all day at school, then will race home and head straight to the bathroom every day. These are all possible signals that your child might be the target of teasing at school.

Interview with Child Protection Agent, Melissa Sugarman, LMSW

Q. If your child comes to you and complains about being bullied, what is the best thing to do?

A. Listen carefully to everything they tell you, allow them to vent, and try to understand everything that took place and assess everyone’s roles in the situation. Sometimes stories

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change as they are being retold, especially among younger children.

Reassure them that excessive teasing, being mean or any kind of physical aggression is not okay. Let them know you are on their side and will do everything to insure that it stops before it gets worse. Try to be supportive but neutral when he’s talking. When you react too strongly to what your child is saying, he might stop talking because he’s afraid he’s going to upset you.

Bullies tend to single out those they can get a reaction from; they choose kids who get upset easily and are sensitive. They also look for kids who won’t stand up for themselves, or who they can overpower. It’s important to teach your child how to react.

Teach your child to avoid bullies at school or in the playground and to go to an adult if they feel unsafe at any time.

Also teach your child to not react to rude or negative remarks that are said to him or her. Teach them to have control over what is going on around them. Let them know they have the power to stand up for themselves or just walk away if they choose. They should also know that many adults would help them if they were in trouble. Tell them it is okay to go the lunch ladies, the bus matron, etc.

If your child has had issues with bullying in the past, make sure to stay abreast of the situation even if it must be done discretely. Children tend to befriend each other even after incidents. The older they get, the more important it is be aware of the groups your child affiliates with. It is not unusual for older kids to have different cliques of friends, some that are kept a secret. Know the company your child keeps.

Q. As a parent, what can I do to stop the bullying?

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A. If your child is being bullied, it’s most likely that this is taking place in school, where they spend the majority of their day. Set up an appointment with the teacher; don’t just mention these things in passing or during dismissal. A

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In more serious incidents, such as physical abuse, it may be necessary to speak to administration and find out what their policies are on bullying. If the problem continues and the school does not seem to be helping, set up another meeting with the school and have the so called “bully’s” parents present as well. If the complaint cannot be investigated at the school level due to the nature and seriousness of the allegation(s), the principal should consult with the Office of School and Youth Development.

Q. What if my child won’t talk to me about being bullied?

A. Sometimes it takes a while for a child to open up about being bullied.

This may have to do with the stigma and embarrassment that comes from being a victim of bullying. Reach out to your child’s school and speak with the guidance counselor or social worker.

These professionals are trained to handle situations like this. Ask that the guidance counselor or social worker speak with your child about bullying.

They will be reassured that bullying is nothing to be embarrassed about, and after some time they will eventually begin to open up to you. The best advice I can give is not to push them to speak.

Pressuring your child into anything is, in its own way, a form of bullying.

Q. What about when it’s gone beyond verbal abuse and there is a physical threat?

A. Physical threats are constituted as a crime. If your child has been physically assaulted, or even threatened with physical harm, this now turns into a police matter– no matter what age the child or the aggressor is. The aggressor could be charged as a juvenile delinquent and will be seen by a judge in Family Court. The result may be probation, placement, or mandated services such as seeking psychiatric help

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Vincent Acierno 718.517.9309 900 South Ave • Suite 100 • SI, NY 10314 acierno_vincent@nlvmail.com www.financialintegritystrategies.com Vincent Acierno is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Equity Services, Inc. Securities and investment advisory services are not offered solely by Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. 733 Third Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017 (212) 661-1600. Financial Integrity Strategies, Inc. is independent of Equity Services. Inc. 1. Policy loans and withdrawals reduce the policy’s cash value and death benefit and may result in a taxable event. Surrender charges may reduce the policy’s cash value in early years.

Benefits may not be mutually exclusive, and the use of one benefit may affect the availability of another. tc70346 (0912)

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on a regular requirements.

basis

among

other

Most parents do not realize that bullying is serious enough to get the police involved. If you do not feel that your child is safe in their school, the Department of Education will provide a safety transfer.

Q. What is cyberbullying? What can parents do to promote safe use of the Internet?

A. Cyberbullying, which is seen in both adults and children, is the use of technology, i.e. the Internet, social media websites, text messaging, etc, with the intention to target, threaten or harass another person. To promote safe use of the Internet, parents should ensure that their children’s Internet use is monitored.

Parents have access to parental controls on the Internet, so that they can limit the amount of time a child spends on the Internet and limit which websites can be visited. For parents who allow their children on social media websites, they should make sure that their children provide them with the passwords and parents should sporadically check in to make sure that there is no inappropriate behavior going on.

In most cases, children know more about cyberbullying than adults do. In these situations, it is important to turn the “bystanders” into upstanding citizens.

When children witness bullying situations, especially online, it is critical that they speak up and help put an end to it.

Bystanders need to intervene. Oftentimes after a tragedy, it becomes known that the majority of bystanders knew what was going on and said or did nothing.

It is critical that other children join in to defeat the culture of bullying and stand up for each other with character and empathy. These are traits that begin in the home and transform children into solid, upstanding citizens. Bystanders need to intervene and stand up to defend and support their bullied peers. It could save a life.

By Staten Island educator, Marianna Randazzo

Next Month: Addressing the Issue through Books and Movies

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COVER KID CLOSEUP-

MARA KATSOUFIS

Mother’s Name: Lauran Katsoufis Father’s Name: Andrew Katsoufis Pets: Turtle named Brother Turt Nicknames: Duck, T, Beezer, Teezer & B Milestones Reached: Rolling, sitting, crawling, clapping, waving, & saying hi, bye, mama, and dada Favorite TV Show: Mickey Mouse Club Birthday: 7/19/2012

1-year-old Mara Katsoufis is an active little girl. She loves going to the library and attending music class. Her mother Laura’s biggest wish for her daughter’s future is for her to “enjoy whatever she decides to do and be her best at it.” Laura hopes that she will always have a close relationship with her daughter.

All photos of Mara are courtesy of Amanda Marie Artistry, www.amandamarieartistry.com and were taken at Snug Harbor.

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EDUCATION

>>>

THE S.T.E.M. CRISES (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)

s a society, we learn about the world and advance our wellbeing through science and engineering. The United States may be known around the world for its higher education, but compared to many other leading and steadily emerging countries we lack a strong focus on educating scientists and engineers. One significant reason that we have fallen behind is that we do not encourage our female students to pursue career paths in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM). If we want to attract the best and brightest minds into the fields that will move us forward, we can no longer look to only half of the population.

A

GIRLS CAN HELP PUT THE USA BACK ON TOP.

While young people today have more opportunities to become exposed to STEM subjects than 20 years ago, more still needs to be done. One of the best ways to encourage young girls and build their confidence in STEM fields is through mentoring. The value of mentorship as a career strategy is irreplaceable and finding a mentor early on can bring huge benefits, especially in unbalanced work environments like engineering. A mentor is not only someone who is willing to take the time to teach techniques and processes but also someone who takes an interest in long term advancement. The majority of successful women time and time again credit their participation in some sort of mentorship for dramatically helping them reach their career goals.

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Women are gaining numbers in traditionally male dominated fields, but they are still significantly outnumbered in STEM occupations. Getting talented women into male dominated careers is one struggle, while keeping them is another. The issue is especially apparent in STEM careers, which is extremely important to the global economy.

Attracting and retaining more women in STEM careers will help tremendously to improve diversity, maximize creativity, and boost competitiveness.

Having people with different mind-sets, capabilities, and imaginations on production teams improves the creative process and helps to minimize avoidable mistakes. Products rooted in science and technology are likely to better meet the needs of both men and women if the products are

Staten Island Montessori School Over 45 Years of Quality Education

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designed by teams comprised of both genders. It is a matter of designing products that are compatible with a broad audience; it is a matter of safety; and it starts with attracting more women into STEM careers.

As women become more prevalent in STEM careers, more and more young girls will begin to recognize the additional career opportunities open to them. With more women in the field, it will become more evident to young girls what they, as engineers, can offer the world. Without being able to see this link, they will continue to have problems envisioning certain positions as viable possibilities, even if they have some intrinsic interest in the subject matter. If girls cannot visualize themselves in STEM careers because they have never seen women in those positions, they will be much less likely to ever use their innate aptitudes and abilities in a math or science oriented specialty.

That will truly be a loss of gigantic proportion, for our women, our profession and our country.

By Karen Purcell, P.E., founder and president of PK Electrical, an electrical engineering, design, and consulting firm. She is the author of Unlocking Your Brilliance: Smart Strategies for Women to Thrive in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

• The World Economic Forum ranks the United States 52nd in the quality of mathematics and science education, and 5th (and declining) in overall global competitiveness • The United States ranks 27th in developed nations in the proportion of college students receiving undergraduate degrees in science or engineering (Source: Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) • Over 2/3 of the engineers who receive Ph.D.’s from United States universities are not United States citizens (Source: National Science Foundation)

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MEN'S HEALTH

>>>

HEALTHY FOODS FOR MEN LOOKING TO GET IN SHAPE

en hoping to get in shape typically know that getting fit requires a combination of diet and exercise. While it might be easy to adapt to a new exercise regimen, many men find it difficult to alter their diets. But a healthy diet does not have to be drab. The following are some healthy foods that men can enjoy on their way to improving their overall health.

M

Turkey: Each ounce of skinless turkey breast contains seven grams of muscle-building protein, which should interest those men looking to improve their physique. Turkey often has no saturated fat and is even high in vitamin B and zinc.

FIND FRESH, HEALTHY FOODS IN YOUR NEIGHBOORHOOD MARKET.

Beans: Beans are loaded with protein and contain no saturated fat. Men who want to get the most bang for their bean should consider black beans, which have the most fiber per serving. Fiber swells in your stomach and makes you feel full, which can quell any hunger pangs you get during the day.

This can help you avoid overeating.

Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a staple of Thanksgiving dinner, but they can be enjoyed year-round, too. Sweet potatoes protect the body against cell damage because they're loaded with nutrients such as beta carotene, iron and vitamins C and E. Sweet potatoes also help your body's muscles recover after a tough workout.

Beef: Beef might not be the first food men think of when they're trying to get in shape and improve their overall health, but beef is loaded with nutrients, including protein, B6 and B12, niacin, phosphorous, and selenium. When buying beef, look for lean cuts. They should not be too difficult to find, as the United States Department of Agriculture notes that today's beef is 20 percent leaner than it was as recently as a decade ago.

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Yogurt: Men who need to shed a few pounds should consider yogurt, which contains calcium that helps the body feel full as it effectively burns fat. In addition, yogurt contains active cultures that increase the amount of germ-fighting bacteria along the intestinal walls. Studies have linked those cultures to a reduced risk of getting a cold, so you might just avoid a cold while you're losing some weight.

Spinach: Popeye ate spinach, and men looking to get in shape and stay healthy should follow suit, as spinach is loaded with calcium, fiber and beta carotene, which boosts your immune system.

Oatmeal: Eating healthy can start in the morning with a bowl of oatmeal. It contains ample soluble fiber that can reduce a man's risk of developing heart disease by helping reduce your cholesterol levels. If plain oatmeal is too drab, add some fruit like strawberries, bananas or blueberries, which contain more fiber, vitamins and minerals per ounce than any other fruit.

My Happy Place, Inc.

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416 Forest Avenue • 10301 For information, call (347) 308-4067 or email myhappyplaceinc@yahoo.com

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• Fully Equipped Sensory and Gross Motor Gym • We Now Accept Various Insurances

• SEIT Program SLP’s, OT’s, PT’s, Counseling and SEIT positions available 962 Manor Road www.therapy-pros.com 718.982.5944

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Tips • Prod Fun uc t

ws • Birth Ann ou vie Re

O.M.G. I’m a MOM!

s

ents • Giveaw ay em nc

AUGUST IS BREASTFEEDING MONTH National Breastfeeding Month is the perfect time for the annual Big Latch On event. During this event, breastfeeding women come together at a specific time and location to latch on their child for one minute while being counted by witnesses. There are many things The Big Latch On wishes to accomplish. According to their site (www.biglatchon.org), here are some of their major goals: • Support for communities to identify and grow opportunities to provide ongoing breastfeeding support and promotion.

• Raise awareness of breastfeeding support and knowledge available in communities.

• Help communities positively support breastfeeding in public places.

• Make breastfeeding a normal part of the day-to-day life at a local community level.

• Increase support for women who breastfeed – women are supported by their parents, family, and the breastfeeding knowledge that is embedded in their communities.

• Communities have the resources to advocate for coordinated appropriate and accessible breastfeeding support services.

BREASTFEEDING BENEFITS Breastfeeding has many benefits. Even if you only breastfeed your baby for a short period, your breast milk can promote your baby’s health and well-being, as well as your own. Here are some of the many advantages of breastfeeding for a mother and her baby: Benefits for Baby Infants receive the most complete form of nutrition available from their mother’s milk. It has just the right amount of fat, sugar, water, and protein for a baby’s growth and development. Most babies digest breast milk more easily than formula.

A mother’s body adjusts the milk to match her baby’s needs precisely. Breastfed infants grow exactly the way they should, often gaining less unnecessary weight than formula-fed babies. As a result, breastfed children may be less overweight later in life.

Premature babies who breastfeed do better than premature babies who are fed formula. Breastfed children also perform slightly higher on IQ tests than formula-fed children, particularly if they were born prematurely.

Benefits for Mom Your body needs extra calories to make breast milk, so you will find it easier to lose the weight of pregnancy if you nurse your infant. Your uterus will also shrink more quickly, and you will bleed less after childbirth.

If you breastfeed your baby, especially if you breastfeed exclusively (without any formula), you may delay the return of normal ovulation and menstrual cycles. (You still need to talk with your doctor or nurse about birth control options while breastfeeding.)

Breastfeeding has been shown to lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, and possibly the risk of hip fractures and osteoporosis after menopause.

Breastfeeding saves you time and money since you don’t purchase, measure, or mix formula. You have no bottles to warm in the middle of the night!

When your baby cries, you can put your baby right on the breast. There is no delay and no equipment. You simply relax quietly with your child. Your baby will feel secure, warm and comforted, and you will enjoy a self-confidence and intimacy that can help you bond even closer with your baby.

Benefits for Society Breastfeeding saves us money as a society, because total medical costs for the nation are lower for fully breastfed infants than for never-breastfed infants. Breastfed infants require fewer doctor’s visits, prescriptions, and hospitalizations.

Because breastfed babies are sick for less time, mothers who breastfeed miss less work and raise workforce productivity compared with mothers of formula-fed infants. They also lower medical costs for employers.

Breastfeeding reduces the cost to our environment. Breast milk leaves no trash and uses no energy to produce, whereas formula creates waste and requires energy to prepare.

Provided by Yummy Mummy (yummymummystore.com); Adapted from 4woman.gov

The Big Latch On Event Info: Saturday, August 3, 2013 Great Kills Moravian Church 64 Cleveland Ave. • 10am

Under the Affordable Care Act, all health insurance providers are required to cover the cost of breast pumps, breastfeeding supplies, and lactation support. However, only specific brands would be covered. Be sure to contact your health care provider to find out your options.

Win

Skip Hop Treetop Friends 4-Piece Bedding Set SRP $129.99 • www.skiphop.com

Skip Hop’s bumper-free 4-piece bedding set provides all the style of a traditional crib set without a bumper, and features their patent-pending Complete Sheet. The Treetop Friends Bedding Set comes with complete sheet, linen crib skirt, comforter, and coordinating crib sheet.

Gia Angled Breastfeeding Pillow With Cover SRP $54.98 • www.drbrownsbaby.com The Gia Angled Breastfeeding Pillow may help with digestion and reduce reflux and other feeding problems. The pillow, which grows with your baby with virtually limitless positions, has a wider, flatter surface that helps prevent baby from rolling down.

Enter Online at www.siparent.com Click on the Contests and Clubs Tab Congratulations to Allison Madigan, Brianna Torino & Magdalena Wolski winners of the Versa Diaper Bag in last months issue!

Newbies Submit Your Baby’s Annoucement on www.siparent.com. Click on the Contests & Clubs Tab.

Dondi Johnson-Hodrick, Jr.

Ryan Joseph D'Elia

June 21, 2013 6 pounds, 2 ounces Parents: Andrea & Dondi

June 20, 2013 9 pounds, 1 ounce Parents: Catherine and Joseph

Robert James Tuite, Jr.

Juliette Florio-Perez

December 26, 2012 7 pounds, 11 ounces Parents: Eileen and Rob

May 31, 2013 7 pounds, 14 ounces Parents: Janine & Adrian

Noah Sekou Agbeve

Anthony Joseph Angelico

Alexander Krzysztof Kania

Brielle Lynea Savarese

June 9, 2013 6 pounds, 5 ounces Parents: Fatoumata & Kodjo May 31, 2013 7 pounds, 8 ounces Parents: Agnieszka & Krzysztof

April 9, 2013 7 pounds, 8 ounces Parents: Susan and Vincent

June 15, 2012 8 pounds, 6 ounces Parents: Anthony and Lynette

PARENT & CHILD TIME

By Ann Clinton

J&J Academy 718-698-0280 55 Wyona Ave, S.I. NY 10314 Just bring your little prince or princess and WE will take care of the rest!!!

Saturday & Sunday care available.

Check website for details.

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FREE A.M. UPK • ACD Voucher accepted • FREE Breakfast & Hot Lunch are served • FREE weekly Chinese class • New York State certified teacher, small class ratio, all CPR trained staff • Follow UPK curriculum for 4 years old • Open Mon to Fri 7:00am to 7:00pm • 4000sq. ft of playground

Please visit our website: www.jjacademy.org for more information

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The doorbell rang and Grandma put down her pen and got up from the dining room chair where she had been sitting and writing. She walked to the front door and opened it and was happy and surprised to see Philip and Liam standing in the sun.

POEMS AND “Hello, boys. What a nice surprise. I wasn’t expecting STORIES you.”

“We know that you didn’t expect us,” Liam said.

Philip added, “That’s why it’s a surprise.”

“Well, come in. Are your moms here, too?” Grandma wanted to know.

“They’re going to the store but they should be back in a half hour,” Liam advised.

“So, what were you writing, Grandma?” Philip asked. ”I see you have your writing paper and pen,” Liam added.

Grandma looked at her two grandsons and smiled. “I was trying to write a poem.”

“Did you finish it?” Liam asked and said, “I’d like to read it.”

Philip, who was pouring himself a glass of iced tea, said, “Me, too. I want to hear it.”

Grandma picked up her poem and said “The title is ‘Sweet Summer.’”

Golden sand sparkles in afternoon light Balmy breezes signal oncoming night Fragrant pink blossoms sway to and fro Long leafed grasses hide a black crow Little boys scamper among the swells Little girls gather baskets of shells Moon man is rising high in the sky Stars will soon twinkle to pleasure the eye.

Philip was smiling and said, “Grandma, that’s a cute poem. Were you thinking of us when you wrote it?”

“Yes, I guess I was,” Grandma answered just as there was a knock at the front door.

Liam got up and answered the door. “Hello, mothers. We just heard Grandma’s poem.”

“Oh, what a coincidence,” his mom said and took a paper out of her tote bag.

“Liam wrote a story in school that I thought was very creative and I brought it for Grandma to read.”

Philip looked at his mother and asked, “Do I have any stories at home that I wrote?”

“Hmm, let me think. I’ll have to look through the folder of your school papers,” she replied.

“Okay, I’m ready to read my story: ‘”Darn!” Jim said. Jim had one problem, he had forgotten a piece to his project from Science class. Jim had forgotten the solar panel for his robot! The robot could do homework for you, but not without a solar panel. Jim had a plan to get into the school with his friend Bob. As Jim and Bob walked down the sidewalk, the midnight breeze picked up.

They then crept into a bush. “OK, here’s the plan.” Jim said. “You’re going to distract the guard by talking to him, then while that’s happening, I’m quickly going to snatch the keys on his belt and flash inside.” Jim explained. “Will I get in trouble though?” Bob asked. “If you do, I’ll take the heat.” Jim replied. “Fine,” Bob reluctantly said. Bob walked up to the guard and started a conversation.

Jim crept behind him and snatched the keys and went inside. After going upstairs and down dark hallways, he reached the classroom and went inside.

He grabbed the solar panel and went down the stairs. He was then outside and signaled Bob to come. They raced up the sidewalk and reached their houses. “Bye,” they told each other.

After Jim was in bed, he told himself the lesson he learned was to always double check to make sure you’re not missing anything. By then the robot was finished and Jim was asleep, for he had an exciting night. He also got an A+ for the project.”

Philip looked at his cousin and said, “Great story.”

Grandma looked at Liam and said, “Great story. What is the title?”

“That’s right. I don’t have a title,” Liam agreed. “Does anyone have an idea for a title?”

Grandma spoke first, “I think I’d call it “The Missing Panel.”

“Okay, Mom, what do you think?” Liam asked his mother.

“I’m still thinking. Ask Philip and Aunt Liz.” “I’ve got a good one,” Philip said. “I’d call it ‘Saving the Science Project.”

“Aunt Liz, what about you? Do you have a title for my story?”

“How about, “Mission Accomplished. Project Saved.”

“That’s great, Aunt Liz. I like all of the titles but I do think yours is the best,” Liam said.

“Wait, Liam. We still have to ask Erica, Ryan, Monica and Aunt Ann when they get here,” Philip advised.

“Good idea, Philip. I’ll read them the story and ask them about a title when they get here,” Liam replied.

Looking at his story, Liam thought to himself, “I wonder what titles they will think of.”

PEDIATRIC MULTI-DISCIPLINARY DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION SITE SEIT PROGRAM & TREATMENT CENTER • SEIT Services • CPSE Evaluations • Private Evaluations • Private Therapy– All Ages Welcome – Speech – Occupational Therapy – Physical Therapy – Vision Therapy – Counseling – Signing to Enhance Vocabulary

WE ARE HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE Please call to set up your appointment

718-984-5826 •Email: Therapy905@aol.com www.wordsnmotion.com 905 Annadale Rd (Annadale Town) • Programs are for children who have or are suspected of having a disability • Special education services are at no cost to parent • Services and their location are determined by the CPSE (local school district)

ZION LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL

Limited Availability for September 2013 • Parent/Toddler Interaction program • Terrific Two's Separation Class • 3 year old program & Pre-K 4 program • Extended Day for 3/4 year olds

QUIZ

• ZUMBA: Tuesdays at 6pm and Wednesdays at 7pm. $10 class, $2/babysitting per child 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

What was Grandma writing?

Who was pouring some iced tea?

What was Liam’s story about?

Who was going to look through some school papers for a story?

Was there something missing from Liam’s story?”

Ann Clinton is a Staten Island grandmother who enjoys creating stories for her grandchildren.

Call: 718.981.3623 Text: 917.853.ZION 505 Watchogue Rd. c/s Willowbrook Rd. www.zionlutheranpreschoolsi.com

AUGUST 2013

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PARENTING MATTERS

>>>

IS YOUR CHILD READY TO BE HOME ALONE? How to Make the Big Decision

s the new school year starts, many parents are now facing a new decision: Is it time for my child to be allowed to stay home alone?

A

While most states, including New York, do not have a legal minimum age for children to be home alone, 12 years old is the most common age deemed “old enough� to even consider that privilege.

Naturally, children mature at different rates; some being responsible and independent enough at 12 or 13 years old, while others are still too irresponsible well into their teenage years. Children with special needs may have limited ability to care for themselves IS YOUR CHILD PREPARED TO BE HOME ALONE? and keep themselves safe.

Ultimately, the parents or year-old for that same period of time. guardians are responsible for making that decision for their children.

Also consider the dynamics between siblings if they are going to be home together. For some, it may be a comfort to Here, from the New York State Office of Children and have company when adults are not at home. For others, adult Family Services, are some important points to consider when supervision may be necessary to resolve conflicts if they making the decision to allow your child to stay home alone occur. Still others may find the extra freedom provokes or to begin babysitting other children. These same questions foolish and juvenile behavior. should be asked when considering whether a child is old enough to babysit. However, when considering a child as an Be aware, this is just the beginning of the issues to adequate babysitter, you must evaluate these factors for consider. It is not an all-inclusive checklist to guarantee both the potential babysitter as well as the needs of the child intelligent and reasoned decision-making: or children who will be cared for by the babysitter. A child of 12 might be fine alone for two hours in an afternoon. Yet, the • Consider the child: How mature is the child? How same child may be incapable of responsibly caring for a 5-

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2 Newly Renovated & Beautifully Decorated Party Rooms with a Large Dance Floor

NEW Picnic Packages Are t 16’s Swee pecialty Our S

comfortable is the child with the circumstances? What has the child done in the past to show you he/she is able to take on this kind of responsibility?

FINE CATERING 137 Barnard Ave • 718.948.5333 Email: ejmichaelsinc@verizon.net • www.ejmichaelsfinecatering.com

• Consider the child’s knowledge and ability: Does the child know how and when to contact emergency help? Is the child able to prepare food for him/herself? Are there hazards to the child in the environment such as accessible knives, power tools, a stove or oven?

Communions • Confirmations • Christenings • Sweet 16’s Baby Showers • Bridal Showers • Weddings • Anniversary Parties Holiday Parties • Community Board Meetings • Conferences Repast Luncheons • On & Off Premise Catering

• Consider the circumstances: Where will the child be when left alone? How long is the child to be alone?

Thank You for Making our Success Possible!

Speech and Language Pathology Practice Serving You and Your Children

OUR THERAPISTS HAVE EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE TREATING: Autistic Spectrum Disorders, PDD, Craniofacial Differences, Fluency Disorders, Apraxia of Speech, “Late Talkers,“ Hearing Impairments & Phonological / Articulation Disorders Most Insurances Accepted • CPSE and RSA

347.640.4SLP (4757) • 188 Hylan Blvd • 10305

www.bbslp.org • Email: info@bbslp.org BILINGUAL CERTIFIED THERAPISTS

INSTILLING CONFIDENCE, DISCIPLINE, TECHNIQUE AND EXPRESSION WHILE HAVING FUN

Movement, Inspirations Creative Zumba,Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Acro, in Dance Modern, Miss Jenn’s Center for Dance and Fitness

★ Ages 2 to Adult

SIGN UP NOW FOR FALL CLASSES Call for more information

NO REGISTRATION FEE When you sign up for Fall Classes in August

Hip Hop, and Pilates

for Not too late lasses C er m m Su

718-494-6280 • www.inspirationsindance.com 1652 Richmond Avenue – Minutes from the S.I. Mall Coral Island Shopping Center • Corner of Richmond and Victory

FRIENDLY AND FAMILY ORIENTED SCHOOL WITH A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT

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We asked our Facebook Friends at what age they felt comfortable leaving their child home alone.

Here’s what we found out: Joan G.: “My oldest was 13 but I had no choice because I worked and she took the school bus. She was and still is very responsible. My youngest turns 10 in July, very different personalities and not as responsible.”

Isabella B.: “I was 12, but I am thinking more like 15 for my child.

Thank goodness that is not anytime soon.”

Nicole P.: “15, sorry call me crazy.”

Join us on Facebook and share your opinions with us.

It’s fun! facebook.com/siparent

AUGUST 2013

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SPECIAL SECTION 2013

Back-to-School Directory ADVERTISING SECTION

VISIT SIPARENT.COM TO VIEW THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL DIRECTORY ONLINE

4 Angels Day Care, Inc.

C.B.I. Academy Preschool

Dual Language Academy

245 Simonson Avenue • 10303 917.821.5048 Email: my4angelsdaycareinc@msn.com www.4angelsdaycareinc.com

45 Twombly Avenue • 10306 718.987.6200 Email: cbiacademy123@gmail.com www.cbiacademy.com

280 Laconia Avenue • 10305 855-ALL-4DLA • 855-255-4352 Email: info@duallanguageacademy.com www.duallanguageacademy.com

Academic Advantage

C.B.J Hebrew School

Eltingville Lutheran School

99 New Dorp Plaza • 10306 718.351.3168 Email: academicadvantagesi@yahoo.com www.academicadvantagesi.com

275 Martling Avenue • 10314 718.981.5550 Email: bruschi@verizon.net www.cbjsi.com

300 Genesee Avenue • 10312 718.356.7811 Email: elselc@yahoo.com www.eltingvillelutheranschool.org

Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn

Center Stage Dance Co. Ltd.

Fastbreak Basketball Center

8515 Ridge Boulevard • Brooklyn, NY 11209-4307 718.238.3308 Email: info@adelphinyc.org www.adelphinyc.org

10 Akron Plaza • 10314 718.982.9226 Email: centerstagedanceltd@yahoo.com

236 Richmond Valley Road • 10309 718.948.3710 Email: info@fastbreakhoops.com www.fastbreakhoops.com

Children at Play Art Lab 1000 Richmond Terrace • 10301 718.447.8667 Email: artlabinc@earthlink.net www.artlab.info

40 Merrill Avenue • 10314 718.370.7529 Email: cap@childrenatplayeic.org www.childrenatplayeic.org

Francis School 4240 Amboy Road • 10308 718.967.0400 Email: ccosta@francisschool.com www.francisschool.com

Children’s Harbor Montessori School Babes in Toyland Preschool 79 Wolverine Street • 10306 718.667.1834

1000 Richmond Terrace • 10301 718.442.6112 E-mail: childharborms@aol.com www.childrensharbormontessori.com

Brienza’s Academic Advantage 259 Rose Avenue • 10306 718.232.0114 Email: academicadvantage@msn.com www.brienzas.com

Children’s Playhouse Inc.

Bright Start Speech and Language Pathology, P.C.

Claire Guttsman, M.A.,C.C.C.-SLP

3767 Richmond Avenue • 10312 718.967.0359 Email: brightstart@si.rr.com www.brightstartspeech.com

Building Blocks Montessori School 55 Forest Avenue • 10301 718.448.2992 Email: bbms411@verizon.net www.buildingblocksmontessori.com

Busy Beach Day Care Center, Inc. 777 Seaview Avenue • Bldg #11 718.667.2861 Email: maria.cirillo@omh.ny.gov www.busybeachdaycare.org

54 July 2012 | www.siparent.com

950 Rockland Ave & 85 Monahan Ave 718.761.0129 Email: childrenplay@aol.com

1076 Forest Avenue • 10310 718.447.5501 Email: speechrose1@msn.com

Community Resources Preschool 3651 Richmond Road • 10306 718.568.3105 Email: jaynem111@si.rr.com www.cr-si.org

Dorothy Delson Kuhn Music Institute of the JCC 1466 Manor Road • 10314 1297 Arthur Kill Road • 10312 718.475.5263 www.sijcc.org

Gingerbread Learning Center, Inc. 80 Woodrow Road • 10312 718.356.0008 Email: gingerbreadlearn@aol.com www.gingerbreadlctr.com

Great Beginnings Infant and Toddler Center 2221 Richmond Avenue • 10314 718.983.0014 Email: gbkids2221@aol.com

Holy Child Pre-School 4747 Amboy Road • 10312 718.356.5159 Email: holychildprek@gmail.com www.holy-child.org

Huntington Center–Staten Island 2626 Hylan Boulevard • 10306 718.697.0500 http://staten-island.huntingtonlearning.com

JCC of Staten Island 1297 Arthur Kill Road • 10312 • 718.475.5224 485 Victory Boulevard • 10301• 718.475.5290 1466 Manor Road • 10314 • 718.475.5230 www.sijcc.org

YOU’LL FIND MORE INFORMATION AND LINKS TO THESE SCHOOLS Staten Island YMCA JCC of Staten Island - First Foot Forward

Silhouette Dance Studio

1466 Manor Road • 10314 718.475.5225 1297 Arthur Kill Road • 10312 www.sijcc.org

230 Livingston Avenue 718.727.2649 Email: silhouette92@gmail.com www.silhouettedancestudio.net

Mini World Preschool

Small World Preschool

7516 Amboy Rd • 10307 718.948.9535 E-mail: miniworld2001@aol.com

144 Bloomingdale Road • 10309 718.356.7795 E-mail: kdsrmybiz@aol.com www.smallworldpreschool.net

New Dorp Christian Academy

651 Broadway • 10310 718.981.4933 • E-mail: asicuranza@ymcanyc.org 3939 Richmond Ave • 10312 718.227.3200 • E-mail: bschiuma@ymcanyc.org www.ymcanyc.org

Programs: Steps to Success II 2975 Hylan Blvd • 10306 718.351.7777 E-mail: info@stepstosuccess2.com www.stepstosuccess2.com

259 Rose Avenue • 10306 718.351.4442 Email: ndbcndca@yahoo.com www.newdorpchristianacademy.com

South Shore Toddler Academy and Pre-K

Notre Dame Academy

Speech & Language Therapy Associates

74-78 Howard Avenue • 10301 718.447.8878 ext. 307 Email: kdagostino@notredameacademy.org www.notredameacademy.org

4056 Amboy Road • 10308 718.356.6604 Email: speechandlanguagetherapy@verizon.net www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

The Village Preschool

Oakwood Heights Community Church Nursery School

Staten Island Academy

10 Joline Lane • 10307 718.984.7900 Email: bwhol@voa-gny.org www.voa-gny.org

11 Sampson Ave • 10308 718.356.3563 Email: sicsprek@aol.com

Guyon and Falcon Avenues • 10306 718.351.0984 Email: jodee_teach@yahoo.com

715 Todt Hill Road • 10304 718.303.7803 Email: admissions@statenislandacademy.org www.statenislandacademy.org

Prodigy Preschool and Childcare

Staten Island Community Tennis

3080 Arthur Kill Road • 10309 718.948.4800 Email: carylstingo@thepavilion.org www.pavilionprodigypreschool.com

2800 Victory Boulevard • 10314 718.982.3355 Email: tennis0822@aol.com www.statenislandtennis.com

Richmond Hill Children’s Center

Staten Island Montessori School

501 Richmond Hill Road • 10314 718 494-7422 Email: rhcc@verizon.net www.rhccny.com

4240 Amboy Road • 10308 718-967-2196 Email: info@simontessorischool.com www.simontessorischool.com

Rise Dance Studios

Staten Island Seido Karate

1 Gunton Place • 10309 718.966.7473 Email: risedancestudios@verizon.net www.risedancestudios.com

Snug Harbor Cultural Center • Room G202 1000 Richmond Terrace, 10301 718.207.3613 Email: info@statenislandseido.com www.statenislandseido.com

St. Joseph Hill Academy 850 Hylan Boulevard • 10305 718.981.1187 Email: egregor@stjhill.org www.stjosephhill.homestead.com

Staten Island Skating Pavilion 3080 Arthur Kill Road • 10309 718.948.4800 Email: skatingpavilion@aol.com www.thepavilion.org

The Tanglewood School 15 Tanglewood Drive 718.967.2424 Email: tanglewood@si.rr.com

76 St. Alban’s Place • 10312 718.967.5809

Volunteers of America Early Learning Ctr

Wagner College Academy of Arts & Sciences One Campus Road • 10301 718.390.3221 Email: external@wagner.edu www.wagner.edu/external

Wagner College Early Childhood Center One Campus Road • 10301 718.390.3137 www.wagner.edu/ecc

Wizard of Art and Design 255 Nelson Avenue • 10308 718.227.7600 Email: siwizardofart@aol.com www.siwizard.com

YMCA Counseling Service 3911 Richmond Avenue • 10312 718.948.3232 • Email: awexler@ymcanyc.org 285 Vanderbilt Avenue • 10304 718.981.4382 • Email: acarvalho@ymcanyc.org www.ymcanyc.org

Zion Lutheran Preschool 505 Watchogue Road • 10314 718.981.3623 E-mail: misskimzion@aol.com www.zionlutheranpreschoolsi.com

t c u d Pro iew Rev BABO BOTANICALS LICE PREVENTION PRODUCTS SRP $6.00-$40.00 www.babobotanicals.com Getting rid of lice is a painstaking task, difficult on both parents and child. Your best bet is to prevent infection with Babo Botanicals line of products including shampoos and conditioners fragranced with tea tree, rosemary, thyme, and mint, which have all been proven to repel lice.

BUMKINS LUNCH BAG SRP $12.95 • www.bumkins.com Bumkins lunch bags have an insulated interior and an easy wipe waterproof exterior. The bags, which are free of lead, PVC, BPA, phthalates, and vinyl, easily fold down for storage and have an interior ID card holder. They are available in four different styles.

HOPE PAIGE RUBBER WATCH BRACELETS

SRP $19.95-$21.95 www.hopepaige.com This is the back-to-school accessory which may save a life. Hope Paige’s bracelets are modern fashionable medical accessories that easily blend in with everyday outfits but will stand out to medical professionals. Each bracelet can be customized with an engraving on the back of medical conditions.

Bracelets are available in various styles and colors.

HARPOON DAYPACK

BOOQPAD

SRP $99.99 • www.ec-bc.com The Harpoon Dayback is perfect for kids who need a place to store al their electronic devices. It features a high-density protective foam compartment that fits most 17” laptops. It also has a padded iPad/tablet pocket and a fleece-lined pocket for an mp3 player. A Water repellant exterior keeps the contents dry and safe.

SRP $9.95-$49.95 • www.booqbags.com Booqpad is the perfect case for your iPad and other personal items. The Booqpad is compatible with iPad, iPad 2, and iPad mini and can store your pen, stylus, cash, business cards, paper notepad, and tablet.

Each case comes with a 50-sheet notepad, and 3-pack notepads are also available.

AUGUST 2013

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AUGUST IS:

FAMILY CALENDAR THE LIBRARY IS A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS IN THE SUMMER.

Children's Eye Health and Safety Month Get Ready for Kindergarten Month National Immunization Awareness Month

IMPORTANT DATES: Aug 1–World Wide Web: Anniversary, 1990 Aug 1-Aug 7–World Breastfeeding Week Aug 4–Sister’s Day® Aug 4-Aug10–Exercise With Your Child Week Aug 6–National Night Out Aug 8-Aug 11–PGA Championship Aug 13–International Left Handers Day Aug 15–Best Friend’s Day Aug 15-Aug 25–Little League Baseball World Series

For local Library Programs visit www.siparent.com/calendar_of_events.php

Aug 26-Aug 30–National Safe at Home Week Aug 26–National Dog Day Aug 26-Sep 8–US Open Tennis Championship

MORE FUN FAMILY EVENTS ONLINE! Visit www.siparent.com’s home page and click on the “More Events” button under the calendar icon.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 9 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

PLEASE NOTE: Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. We strongly suggest calling to confirm times, prices, ages, etc. before you attend.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission +$5 Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Concert-Johnny Ray & Salsa con Clase Tappen Park 212-390-1399 7-9pm • All ages • Free

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

Staten Island Mall Greenmarket Staten Island Mall Parking Lot 718-761-6800 9am-4pm • All ages • Free admission The St. George Waterfront Festival St. George Promenade 718-816-2000 1-9pm • All ages • Free admission Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

SUNDAY, AUGUST 4

Dinosaurs and Fossils Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission Up4Art SI Children's Museum

Dinosaurs and Fossils Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 12-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission

MONDAY, AUGUST 5

SummerStage Kids-By Disney Willowbrook Park 212-390-1399 10:30-11:30am • All ages • Free

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6

Tots Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5 National Night Out Against Crime Midland Beach Turtle Circle 718-667-5431 5-9pm • All ages • Free

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30-4:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Mid-Week Bird Walk Great Kills Park 718-727-1135 2-4pm • All ages • Members Free/$3

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8

Children's Summer Programs: Rock Art The Conference House 718-984-0415 12-1pm • Ages 6-10 • $15 paid in advance Starlight Concert Conference House Park 718-816-2133 7:30-10pm • All ages • Free Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5 Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Sprinkler Fest Snug Harbor 718-425-3504 1-5pm • All ages • Free Illstyle & Peace Productions Bloomingdale Park 212-390-1399 10:30-11:30am • All ages • Free

SATURDAY, AUGUST 10

Staten Island Mall Greenmarket Staten Island Mall Parking Lot 718-761-6800 9am-4pm • All ages • Free admission Hike at Buck's Hollow Meet Entrance Eger Nursing Home 718-869-6327 12-2pm • All ages • Free Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11

Origami USA Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Origami USA Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission

MONDAY, AUGUST 12

Robbi K & Friends Willowbrook Park 212-390-1399 10:30-11:30am • All ages • Free

TUESDAY, AUGUST 13

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30-4:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

Starlight Concert Westerleigh Park 718-816-2133 7:30-10pm • All ages • Free

Little Club Heads Faber Park 212-360-1399 10:30-11:30am • 12 mos-10 yrs. • Free

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5

THURSDAY, AUGUST 15

Children's Summer Program: Colonial Tin Punch The Conference House 718-984-0415 12-1pm • Ages 6-10 • $15 in advance

SUMMER MOVIE SERIES: PARANORMAN Wednesday, August 7 Faber Park Field House 8pm All ages Free 718-965-8935 www.nycgovparks.org Watch a movie in the great outdoors! As part of the Summer Movie Series, head over to Faber Park Field House in Faber Pool and Park to watch ParaNorman under the stars. Feel free to bring your own snacks and comfy chairs or blankets, as a limited number of chairs will be available.

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Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

FRIDAY, AUGUST 16

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Uptown Dance Academy Bloomingdale Park 212-360-1399 10:30-11:30am • All ages • Free

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17

Animal Training Demonstrations Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission

Staten Island Mall Greenmarket Staten Island Mall Parking Lot 718-761-6800 9am-4pm • All ages • Free admission Walk the Yellow Trail Rockland Ave & Forest Hill Rd 718-768-9036 10am-2pm • All ages • Free Family Movies: Cars 2

Back to the Beach Celebration Midland Beach Turtle Circle 718-816-2133 Noon-9pm • All ages • Free admission Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Jr. Science Club: Aquatic Life SI Museum 718-727-1135 10am-12pm • Ages 8-13 • $5/$8

SUNDAY, AUGUST 18

Walk Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve 917-753-7155 10:30am-12:30pm • All ages • Free Back to the Beach Celebration Midland Beach Turtle Circle 718-816-2133 Noon-9pm • All ages • Free admission Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

SUTUESDAY, AUGUST 20

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30-4:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission The Ohmies Faber Park 212-360-1399 10:30-11:30am • All ages • Free

www.siparent.com h Searc !

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Local rces Resou

Eletter w e N s Up Sign Form

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the NEW FACE of www.siparent.com

RETHOUGHT.REDESIGNED.RENEWED.

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Mid-Week Bird Walk Conference House Park 718-727-1135 2-3:30pm • All ages • Members Free/$3

THURSDAY, AUGUST 22

Children's Summer Program: Bead Necklace Making The Conference House 718-984-0415 12-1pm • Ages 6-10 • $15 paid in advance Starlight Concert Clove Lakes Park 718-816-2133 7:30-10pm • All ages • Free Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum

BACK TO THE BEACH CELEBRATION Saturday, August 17Sunday, August 18 Midland Beach Turtle Circle Noon-9pm All ages Free statenislandusa.com

The Back to the Beach Celebration is a two-day event that features family-friendly entertainment, shopping, food, and games.

There will be a fireworks show at 9pm on Saturday night.

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718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5 Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

FRIDAY, AUGUST 23

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24

Serpent Day Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission Staten Island Mall Greenmarket Staten Island Mall Parking Lot 718-761-6800 9am-4pm • All ages • Free admission Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Arthur Ashe Kids Day USTA Billie Jean King Stadium 718-592-9488 9:30am • 10 & under Tennis • Free for Grounds Festival The Magical Link SI Museum 718-727-1135 2-3:30pm • All ages • Free w/admission

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25

Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

TUESDAY, AUGUST 27

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30-4:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

THURSDAY, AUGUST 29

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • Admission + $5 Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30

End of the Summer Doo-Wop Concert & Fireworks Wolfe's Pond Park 718-816-2133 6:30-9pm • All ages • Free Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31

Monkey Monkey Music Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission Staten Island Mall Greenmarket Staten Island Mall Parking Lot 718-761-6800 9am-4pm • All ages • Free admission Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

CAN YOUR DENTIST DELIVER THESE SERVICES? • Intravenous and Oral Sedation • Nitrous Oxide “sweet air” • Painless injections with “The Wand.” One of only

• 38 years of experience with over 2,000 hours of continuing education • CPR and emergency management trained staff

four Dentists in the NY area to have this technology • Comfort care cleanings • Doctor’s cell phone number

• Always see the same Doctor

• Drill free dentistry

• One hour hygiene visit devoted to oral health

• 5 year warranty on dental work • State of the art oral cancer screening with Vizilite • Financing available • An overall heath approach with blood pressure and blood sugar testing • Be seen on time!

and comfort • Availability of topical gels for gum comfort during hygiene visits • Understand your dental needs; see it on TV with our intra-oral camera!

• Ask us about the 25 other ways we can help you!

• Evening and weekend hours

If your answer is “no,” you need to call

STATEN ISLAND DENTAL CARE 718.761.5757 Dr. Frederick S. Hecht, D.M.D., P.C. Crown Council Humanitarian Dentist award for overseas dental missionary trips

Special Web Offer! www.AfraidOfTheDentist.com 1520 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314 We are sorry but we are not able to accept Medicaid AUGUST 2013

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CONTEST WINNERS Over $1,800 in Prizes Given Away Last Month!

Hidden Cake: Adrienne Bernstein Versa Diaper Bag by Skip Hop: Allison Madigan Brianna Torino Magdalena Wolski Sesame Place: Rose McClellan Keansburg Amusement: Eugene Chang Medieval Times: Paige Gunther Regal Cinemas: Karla Fernandez Battleship New Jersey: Pamela Glass

GAMES • LAMPS • MOBILES • PUZZLES • SWINGS • BOUNCERS • DRESSERS • WALL HANGINGS • GATES

WE’LL PAY YOU TO CLEAN OUT YOUR KIDS’ CLOSETS

Imagine a place where you can get paid for cleaning out your closets!

That place is Once Upon A Child. We buy and sell new and gently used children’s clothing, accessories, toys, furniture and equipment.

And we pay you immediately for all items accepted. Go through those closets and bring us your kids’ stuff today.

Kidsff’ Stu

100www.siparent.com AUGUST 2013

Heartland Center 2305 Richmond Ave. Staten Island 718-370-3006

Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm Sun 12pm-5pm We buy from 11-5 Except Sunday

DECOR ITEMS • BEDDING SETS • BLANKETS • HIGH CHAIRS • ACCESSORIES

BRAND NAME APPAREL • TOYS • CRIBS • STROLLERS • BOOKS • SHEETS

Sahara Sam’s: Alix Eisenhart ONLINE EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAYS: Jibbitz & Hobie Sunglasses: Patricia Ham Laser Pegs: Neil Wysoczanski Dawn Greco Marilu Bruno Renee Constantino Karen Sayers Pinkalicious the Musical Tickets: Loretta Heelein Wizard of Oz Tickets: Johanna Gilbert Beauty and the Beast Tickets: Adrienne Wiatrak

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CELEBRATING 19 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN ART EDUCATION Classes Start September 9

OPENINGS AVAILABLE! REGISTER NOW!

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AUGUST 2013

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OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL

Start your child off on the right path!

Become a part of the Catholic school tradition.

GIGI’S WORLD

by Giavanna and Gina Schrecker

“A Christ centered education with a value based curriculum” • Advance ED Accredited/NCA • NYS Certified teaching staff • High tech computer lab • Interactive Smartboard in all classrooms • Internet access throughout the school enabling students to research lessons utilizing laptops • Remediation program, school counselor & meeting room • NJHS Chapter; Student Government • Science, Engineering and Technology Club; • Mentoring program for Grade 8; Grade 8 Honors Math • Spanish Grades 3-8 • State of the art athletic center with two new Pre-K gymnasiums and an outdoor soccer field to 8th • Before and after care school program Grade • Full time school nurse

Pre K 3 Half Day: Tues & Thurs • 8:30-11:00 & 12:00-2:30 Pre K 4 Full Day: Mon, Wed & Fri • 8:30-2:30

Rolling Registration Call for an Appointment.

SEED Success through Early Exploration & Discovery for 3 & 4 year olds!

To Register Call 718-984-5750 Irma Cummings, Principal or 718-984-0593 Debbie Emigholz, Parish Manager 5411 AMBOY ROAD • SI, NY 10312

Hi! My name’s Giavanna, but everyone calls me Gigi.

There’s so much going on in my life that I want to share with you. That’s why, with the help of my mom Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker, VP of Content Development and Social Media for The CollegeBound Network, I am writing a monthly kid’s-eye view of what it is like in my world.

Summer Adventures For the past few years, we’ve been putting together a “Summer Wish List” of fun stuff to do during the steamy months off from school. Since Mom’s all about “tradition,” this year didn’t disappoint, though she went a bit more digital with it: She set up a Pinterest board where all year she pinned cool things we could potentially do on our days off from camp. Among some of the fun adventures we¹ve taken so far and ones still on our to-do list are: The Great New York City Cupcake Tour: Mom planned this one as an end-of-school treat, and indeed it was – literally. She heard about it through Groupon, which was running a special on a pair of tickets to what could have very well been a “tourist trap” (she wasn’t sure initially), but it turned out to be a treasure. Since I’m such a baking aficionado, Mom said it was worth a shot, so we met up with a bunch of non-New Yorkers at a specified meeting spot in Union Square Park to embark on a six-bakery stroll where we learned about the history of each location, some “sweet” facts about the goodies there, and – the best part – got to sample something yummy at each stop. Mom said she couldn’t wait to Facebook this one, since it was so much fun. Our tour guide was really cool, the walk was energizing, and the takeaways… YUM! We were so impressed that we bought another Groupon for The Great New York City Chocolate Tour, which is perfect for my little sister (she’s a chocolate freak!).

102www.siparent.com AUGUST 2013

The Red Caboose Motel: When my grandparents, who live in Pennsylvania, discovered this motel made up of old train cabooses renovated into rooms, we knew we had to check it out. We chugged along to Lancaster, PA over the 4th of July weekend and were really impressed with the experience. Although the accommodations were far from fancy (Mom was happy that she always brings our own pillows and blankets when we go away), the novelty of the caboose-filled motel, complete with a dining car that shook every so often so you could imagine it was actually moving, an on-site petting zoo, viewing tower, playgrounds, and Amish horse and buggy rides, made this trip amazing! And, for those who really love trains, there’s not only the excitement of the motel’s motif, but the train museum and real working railroad station right down the road. Choo-choo!

Sight & Sound Theater: We’ve heard so much about productions here over the years, so we incorporated this into our Lancaster trip in July.

Mere seconds after we saw “Noah,” we couldn’t stop talking about how we wanted to come back for their next show (“The Miracle of Christmas Story”). We loved the amazing performance and stunning sets so much that we begged Daddy to buy us past productions on DVD and have watched them over and over again. They’re that good!

To do: The World Children’s Museum: We may not make it to Lake George this year, but it’ll definitely be on our list for next summer. My mom’s BFF and her husband took their 2-year-old (our “cousin”) there recently and loved it. Topping her list of the area’s must-do’s: The World Children’s Museum.

From what she described, the eclectic little place boasts a world cultural theme, with different rooms representing different countries. We explored it a bit online and it certainly looks intriguing. Not to mention that it’s in the heart of the family-friendly town with lots of outdoor fun – perfect for us! I can imagine that would make a fun photo book, for sure! (We like to take pictures of our adventures, then make a storybook out of them… another fun activity that is actually a great way to cherish the summer memory-making!)

Washington, DC: Maybe it’s because I’m somewhat of a history buff, but I really, really, really want to take a trip to our nation’s capital sometime soon. My parents say it may be better to head out that way in the fall, when the weather is cooler, since there’s a lot of walking to visit the historical sites, so I hope that works out. I can’t wait to be in front of the Lincoln Monument, the White House, the Capitol Building, and more. I think it’d be very neat to visit DC during the 4th of July – talk about the best place to show your patriotism, right?

Bronx Zoo Sleepover: Um… how cool is this?!

You can actually spend the night at the Bronx Zoo’s Family Overnight Safari! Each year, there are spring and summer dates for this fantastic adventure, which includes activities like “Late Night at the Bronx Zoo,” in which you meet a variety of amazing animal guests, enjoy a late-night snack, and experience other fun surprises (and critter crusades, I’m sure!). It’s a bit pricey, so we’re going to have to save for this one; my fingers are crossed we can do it next summer. Mom definitely thinks this one will get “repinned” quite a few times!

What cool things have you and your family enjoyed this summer? Share your experiences on our facebook page!

Staten Islanders Giavanna & Gina Schrecker invite you to write to them at editorial@siparent.com or post to www.facebook.com/siparent

STATEN ISLAND’S PREMIER BASKETBALL CENTER RENTALS INDIVIDUAL & GROUP LESSONS

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Children will play on our new basketball court with instructors for fun & games; we provide pre-printed basketball invitations, party room with pizza, drinks, cake coffee and paper goods.

Birthday child receives a Fastbreak Basketball T-shirt.

BIRTHDAY CHILD FREE

SUMMER CAMPS Camp is open to boys and girls ages 7-14 • 9:00am-3:00pm August 5th-9th High School weeks grades 8th12th from 10:00am-2:00pm • August 12th-16th & 19th-23rd

FRIDAY NIGHT OPEN GYM (ALL YEAR ROUND) Boys and Girls grades 3-8 $15 for three hours of fun & games Music, Basketball, Ping Pong, Knock Hockey, Karaoke, Wii

SEPTEMBER LINE UP WITH COACH TOM BURNS

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• FUNdamental Clinic K-2nd Grade (Starts Sept 17 4:00 & 5:00) Your children will learn to dribble with both hands and shoot a lay-up, pass/catch, play defense and most important–the basics of team play!!

10 week session.

• Small Group lessons • Grades 3-9 (Starts Sept 16•Mon & Wed • 4:30-6:00)

Ball handling, passing, shooting, defense, rebounding, screening, etc.

• Pre-Season Basketball Conditioning and Training Program for High School Kids

Sundays & Thursdays Starting September • 6 Week Program

FUTURE STARS • AGES 3 & 4 6 WEEK PROGRAM

Attn: Coaches Team Discounts for Rentals

Starts September 17 & 18 • 12:30-1:30pm A great opportunity to introduce young children to a wide range of sports and games. Each week a different sport will be the focus of drills and games teaching young athletes the basic skills of soccer, football, basketball, hockey, baseball and much more. Experience sports in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

AUGUST 2013

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FAMILY NEEDS Party Services

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104www.siparent.com AUGUST 2013

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FAMILY NEEDS Classifieds Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc. 6 WEEKS–12 YEARS • EARLY PRE-SCHOOL CURRICULUM OPEN 6AM-6PM (EXTENDED HOURS AVAILABLE) • Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper • Over Nights & Weekends • Hablamos Espanol • Summer Camp & Recreational Activities • NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted Accepting Admission at our Newest Location–Call for Info!

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Treating Adults, Teens, Children & Families for Over 20 Years Evening and Weekend Hours

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108www.siparent.com AUGUST 2013

AUGUST 2013

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109

FAMILY NEEDS Professional Directory

DIVORCE ATTORNEY

Family Court • Child Custody Spousal & Child Support Domestic Violence • Adoptions Name Changes • Annulments Separation Agreements Free Initial Consultation for Divorce Actions 24 Kurt T. Richards, P.C.

ATTORNEY

Adam B. Cohen, Esq.

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ATTORNEY

Special Needs Children Need Special Plans for • Special Needs Trusts • Guardianships • Parents’ Wills

AUDIOLOGY

148 New Dorp Ln, 2nd Floor 718-980-0188 info@audiologyisland.com AUDIOLOGY ISLAND PROVIDES:

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• Auditory Processing Disorder Screening and Evaluation (age 5+) • Auditory Brain Stem Response (ABR) testing • Complete Hearing Evaluation • Failed School Screening Follow-up • Ear Protection, Swim Molds and other Custom Ear Products • Hearing Aid Evaluation and Fitting

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THE MEMORY AND ATTENTION CLINIC

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Neuropsychological Evaluations of: • ADHD • Developmental & Learning Disorders • School Problems • Autism Spectrum, Epilepsy & TBI Nervous System Impairments

Evaluation & Treatment of: • Sensory Integration/Processing • Fine & Gross Motor Skills • Self Care & Handwriting Skills • Neurological/Cognitive/ Behavioral/Visual Conditions • Hand/Elbow/Shoulder/ Neck Conditions Insurance & Out-of-Pocket Based 18 Winston Street • 10312 718.757.8890 • rgorvitz@aol.com

Hour Phone Service

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

NYS Licensed Psychotherapist Bereavement Specialist

MA, LMHC-BC

For Individuals, Groups, Adults and Children • Play & Art Therapy • Anxiety • Grief & Loss Issues • Relationship Issues • Depression • School/Career Issues

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718.948.2102 4060 Amboy Road in Great Kills

718-876-0848 2291 Victory Blvd (Evening & weekend appointments avail.)

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ORTHODONTICS

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Call

JOHNSON & LANGWORTHY, P.C. Attorneys at Law

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Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D. Specialist in Orthodontics

GENTLE, PERSONAL, QUALITY CARE FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS 444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312

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www.starspediatrictherapy.com SPEECH PATHOLOGY CLAIRE GUTTSMAN M.A., C.C.C. - SLP 1076 FOREST AVE. (corner of Manor Rd.)

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ADDITIONAL SERVICES: Public Speaking Improvement, Accent Reduction, Corporate Speech Pathology & Lecturing

• Advanced Integrative Therapy • Indiv/Couples/Family • Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling • Special Needs/Identity/Self Esteem • Work & Educational Issues/ Abuse-Recovery • Autism/Aspergers

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SPEECH PATHOLOGY

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A multidisciplinary approach is also utilized, incorporating the expertise of a feeding therapist, an occupational therapist, a nutritionist, a pediatrician or any relevant professional working with your child.

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SAVE 25% Call 718.761.4800 x7139.

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Birthday CluB

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August AUGUST 1 Jillian Lane Samantha Alberino Sabrina Damaskinos Ramon Hernandez III Brianna F. DiGregorio Jasmine Alexia Hall Mathew Lee Megan Lopez Jahmeiah Wingate Brandon Nowak Mike Migliorisi Thomas Gadsden Avaraielle D’Souza Alexa Raucci Ryan Devlin Vincent Canepa Sean Brady AUGUST 2 Victoria Pontecorro Mark DeBartolo Gale Marie Jean Marianne Ricetti Shannon Fasula Jaso Paris Jakob LeNy Leanna Mocerino Liana Andersen Amanda Barone Nicole Conroy William Conroy AUGUST 3 Anthony Maldonado Tristan O'Donnell Krystal Lynn Tramutola Joseph Canoro Louis Musto, Jr Chris A. Hernandez Victoria Rose Corriere Victoria Rose Rivoli Katrina Brady Mark Perrini Daniel Wankowicz Anthony Martinez Kristen Jacoby AUGUST 4 Pamela Ann Carrara Anthony Schaefer Ashley Wilkinson Johnathan A. Guash Robyn Traina Alyson Schwartz Robert Stevens Alexandra McCormick Erin Savitsky Joseph Puzio Joseph Finazzo Fia Guerriero Shane Desilver Angelina Fonseca Calvin Herft Emily Chertkova AUGUST 5 James Marshall Fair Jamie C. Ruchser Christine Obermaier Adam Gandolfo Michelle Alyse Chinnici Gabriella Lubrano Nada Ahmed Jessica Michelle Carandola Madison Elizabeth Marcirak Ryan C. McRoberts

Jocelyn Jackson Abigail Guerriero Angelina Guerriero Giavanna Schrecker Emily Portalatin AUGUST 6 Shaniqua Robinson Gabrielle Ann Avallone Leanna Rivera Nicholas Ambio Hailey Jana Bischoff Christopher Casaliggi Vincenzo DiSimone Biggins Justin Stetter Ryan Casey Eric Portalatin Angel Pagan Jr. Liam Intoci Nicholas Bourekas Rachel Bourekas Madison Cirelli AUGUST 7 Shaun Eger Marina Gorman Christopher Stimus Jenifer Sacaccio Morgan Froehlich Brian Lobritto Ryan Stetter John Giammanco Joseph Boylan Daisy Saenz AUGUST 8 Matthew F. Todaro Kelsey Rose Diabo Paul Joseph Seblano Nicholas Contrada Christina Lorenz William Ryan Wood Michael Grassi Joseph Philip Ardolino Michelle Pugliese Sophia Blunk Annie Sebastiano Larry Merrill Gianna Martinez Stephen Montano Marco Cucchia AUGUST 9 Mandy Poon Alfredo Rosado Mikey Hess, Jr. Meghan Sullivan Meredity Marsini Victoria Carney Kaitlyn Hilton Samantha Rodriguez Samantha Armstrong Joshua-Ted Agustin Irima Ajang Kaitlyn Diaz AUGUST 10 Thomas Goller Luis A. Salgado Ryan Hightower Michael Phraner Alyssa Ewert Antonio Rick Virella Charles Angelo Virella Kaylee Rose Ettinger Lucy Clementoni Alexia Adragna

Nicholas Weinman Peter Helfman Thellenza Neziri Nicholas Palmer Emily Nicholson Michael Cosentino Flanza Neziri AUGUST 11 Sandra Isiofiah Amanda Calafiore Michael V. Magliocca Kenneth Sclafani Chelsea E. Vera Amanda Craven Anthony Monaco Emma Grace DeMuro Sana Ahmed Brandon Tang Cindy Resnick Chloe DiGiacomo Madison Smith Gavin Grassi AUGUST 12 Mary Juliano Christian P. Swindell Dayna Spordone Robert Rastetter Anthony Taccetta Nichole Diane Giglio Damian Murphy Miriam Alyssa Perez Alexandria R. Garcia Louis Marretta Marco Antonio Gomez Aryana Montano Mary Spurrell Judy Jordan AUGUST 13 Camille Petrizzo Rosemarie Petrizzo Andrea Rose Schiano Steven Nieves Alexandra Armao Steven Griffin Marisa Nicole Russo Christoper D. DiGregorio Aleksandra Rzonca Victoria Hughes Branyon Rodriguez Olivia Ducalo AUGUST 14 Megan Leigh Failla Ashley Journeay Matthew J Kleinstein Dayna Haylee Kleinstein Nicholas Bernstein Amanda Torres Daniel Jones Erin Cameron Emily Anne Greenfield Katelin Teresa Gambale Nicole Yuka Quinn Julianna Taromina Kymani Ebanks AUGUST 15 Thomas Palasciano Joseph Ruggiero John Joseph Morlano Christoper Shagan Cody Leanza John Kurulgan

Eric Fomichev Joseph Anthony Cristiano Daniel Cuenca William Soren Nicolette Mauriello John Sangiorgio AUGUST 16 Gaetano Fiallo Kyle MacDonald Adriana Fatto Alyssa Parham Alexis Parham Kayla Dharmaalan Emily Rodriguez Adriana Fatto Nicole Przybyszewski Vincent Kraker AUGUST 17 Billy Quinn Amber Wyatte Samantha Schwartz Grace Varriano Chelsea Restrepo Katie Delikat Jack Pranci Faith Gasparik Veronica Hansen AUGUST 18 Ariella Garcia Matthew Arciero Celina Hynes Victoria Pompa Gabriella Vinci Samantha Friedman Dominic Cenatiempo Kelley Korenski Clara Page Gambale Anthony Cardinale Tyler Castagliola Kaitlyn Zhurov Vincent Torre Anthony DeSimone Jackson Guyon AUGUST 19 Erin Meade Jacobson Alicia Rebelo Anthony Kadziela Matthew T. Yarmolinsky Mariah Angelika Scafidi Nelson Archibald Victoria Van Name Anthony Paino Fallon Lombardo Arianna Ramirez AUGUST 20 Amanda Mazzola Michael Thomas Justin Cohen Matthew John Velez Austin R.L. Fasano Leah N. Cruz Victoria Gullo Vincent Gullo Imani Ebanks AUGUST 21 James Choi Alyssa Adzemovic Paul DiVilio Amanda Thompson Casseem Collis Caitlin Gleavy

Kayla Hall Risa Jo Sang Courtney Anglieri Aiden Ng AUGUST 22 Alicia Ambrosino Kim Engel James Marino Matthew J. Melfi Devon Shea Louis LaRosa August Engel Daniella Cardinale Kaliee Villiarola Nicholas Tortora Lauren Stillman Brianna Bunay Giuliana Colon AUGUST 23 Amanda Marie Flack Matthew Acevedo Chris Cocolicchio Tyler Bauzyk Amara Symone Thomas Elijah Mendoza Thomas Gabriel Carchietta Gabriella Muschello Christina Mezzadri AUGUST 24 Amber M Ferrandino Thomas Carbonaro Ariel Santiago Alexa Antonelli Brenna Rose Dominick S. DiGregorio Xhuljeta-Julie Moshkulli Kristen Jefarijian Alexa Portney Riley O’Brien Louis Martinez Kristen Piscitelli AUGUST 25 Natalie Loffreno Laura Harding Steven Avery Ramos Frankie Zingaropoli Bethany McGlyn Kayla Marie Festa Liliana Maldonado Adriana Desposito Vanujan Dharmaalan Vanessa V. Vasqez Mireigha M. Vasquez Perparim Neziri Alessia DiDonna David Zapata Rimi Neziri Ileesha Wijayaratna AUGUST 26 Anthony Milea Matthew Gutkes Gabrielle Mary Grieco Kaitlyn Rose O’Connor Joseph Delaney Kristen N. Avallone Andrea DiBenedetto Marquise Hyman Loai Hamdallah Julia Hafizi Eddie Finn

AUGUST 27 Patrick Bowen Tracey Beth Sanchez Steven Carlone Stephen Sanicola Nicholas Alessi Sabrina Riz Wong Jason Fieros Lauren Casella Christopher Damiano Gabriella Nicholasi Dawnie Fox AUGUST 28 Kim Casale Adrianna Parello Michael Moreno Nkiruka Ague Caitlyn Moulton Riley O’Brien Gavin Levine Arianna Velez Alex Castro AUGUST 29 Vincent Conti Gianna A. Granato Samantha Goon Briana Maruffi Michael Mancuso James Armstrong Gianna Elizabeth Marani Jayden Rodriguez Kristi Deljudice Terrance Graham Jr. John Edward Sciarrino Vincent Vicinanza Giavonna Decicco AUGUST 30 Matthew J. Lorenzo Monique Yatwa Paul Brennan Susan Peters Tamara Lechner Taylor M. Montalto Jordan Isiah Wyke Sean Andrew Keane Gabriella Nicole Glorioso Angela Gottlieb Sienna Selvitella Andrew Perez AUGUST 31 Maureen Gorman Michael Gennaro Vincent Gennaro Alexandra Bannon Chris Messina John Maruffi Noah Lau Daniel J. Crawford Krista Schacht Justin Fago Michael Bonilla Elizabeth Safir Ponton Vita Stabile Victoria Mazell Hector Guzman

Birthday Club members are entitled to receive

10 FREE TOKENS AT FUNSTATION Funstation is located on 3555 Victory Boulevard • 718.370.0077 Good only for birthday club members on this list. Not to be combined with any other offers. Offer valid on child’s birthday only.

ADVERTISER INDEX Academic Advantage ...................... 27

Gingerbread Learning Center ......115

Rise Dance ............................................50

All American Amusement................105

Great Adventure ..................................93

Roller Jam..............................................33

Amboy Medical ..................................27

Grounded Dancers ............................39

Seido Karate ........................................79

American Karate ................................71

High Hopes............................................78

Showplace Entertainment ................49

Animal Health Group..........................43

Holy Child ..............................................62

SI Braces ................................................21

Army ROTC ............................................31

Inspirations in Dance ........................88

SI Children’s Museum ......................101

Art Lab....................................................79

iPlay America ......................................23

SI Community Charter School ..........81

Athletic Edge ..........................................5

J & J Academy ....................................84

SI Dental ................................................99

Big Bird’s Playhouse ............................55

JCC Early Childhood Center ......67, 73

SI Montessori School ..........................77

Bodyline Pilates ....................................22

JCC First Foot Forward ........................77

SI Pediatric Dentistry ............................63

Brienza’s Academic Advantage ......61

JCC Reality Check ..............................55

SI Pee Wee Football ............................70

Building Blocks Montessori ..............53

Je Revele ............................................114

SI Physician’s Practice ........................41

Building Blocks Speech ....................88

Jenkinson’s/Casino Pier ....................87

SI Skating Pavilion ................................12

Carnival Kids ........................................13

Kaplan Test Prep ..................................81

SI Wrestling ............................................43

Casa Belvedere ................................109

Kiddie Palooza/Liquid Lounge ........75

Silhouette Dance Center....................67

Center Stage Dance Co. ..................25

Kiddie Wonderland ............................54

SIUH ........................................................89

Children at Play....................................71

Kids ‘N Shape........................................16

SIUH-WIC ................................................45

Claire Guttsman ..................................47

Kids Dental ............................................10

Small World Dental ..............................35

Coastal Plumbing..................................6

LA Dance ..............................................17

Small World Preschool ........................73

Congregation B’nai Jeshurun ..........48

Land of Make Believe ........................84

SMB Studio Arts ....................................25

Costanzo’s Martial Arts ......................51

Little Angels Playhouse ......................67

Spa Di Da ..............................................13

Crib Outlet ............................................15

Master Curry Karate..............................7

St. George Theatre..............Back Cover

Dance Dance Dance Ltd. ................11

Mastropiero Pools ................................26

St. John Villa Academy ......................69

Dance Sensations................................78

Mathnasium ........................................29

St. John’s Lutheran School..................53

Dea Music ............................................42

Medieval Times ..................................102

St. Joseph Hill Academy ....................48

Dr. Michael D’Anna ..............................8

Melissa’s Dance Workshop................70

St. Patrick’s School................................50

Dr. Michael Di Simone ........................25

Miss Caroline’s Dance Elite................43

St. Rita......................................................26

Dr. Michelle Giumenta........................72

Miss Jessica’s Jamz..............................44

Sterling Optical ....................................53

Dr. Phyllis Merlino..................................69

My Happy Place..................................81

The Sunnyside School ........................71

E.J. Michael’s ........................................88

New Dorp Christian Academy ........57

The Village Preschool..........................70

ECHO ......................................................62

New Dorp Moravian Church ............68

Theatre in the Woods ..........................54

Eltingville Lutheran School ................44

Notre Dame Academy ......................37

Therapy Pros..........................................81

Evolution Dance Company ..............24

NYC Dept. of Education ....................14

Triple Threat Theatre ............................25

Exposure Dance ..................................68

Once Upon a Child ..........................100

Tutoring By Christine ............................79

Eye Level Math & English......................9

Our Lady Star of the Sea ..................102

Unitarian Church of SI ........................30

Fairy Lice Mothers................................68

Paramount Oral Surgery ....................22

United Youth Soccer League ............43

Falcone Family Chiropractor ............61

Parent to Parent....................................57

Victory Gymnastics ............................45

Fastbreak ............................................103

Party Jam Party Centers ....................18

Volunteers of America ........................69

FasTracKids ..............................................9

Party Jungle ..........................................30

Wagner External ................................100

Field Station Dinosaurs........................34

Pole Position Raceway ......................34

Wizard of Art........................................101

Financial Integrity Services ................72

Rab’s Country Lanes ....................19, 73

Words in Motion ..................................85

Francis School ......................................77

Rebounderz ..........................................47

Zion Lutheran ........................................85

Games on Wheels ..............................39

Richmond County Savings Bank ......2

Gateway Academy ..........................57

Richmond Hill Children’s Center ......79

114www.siparent.com AUGUST 2013

Classroom Based Programs With ABA Instruction for 2-3 years olds (limited space)

As per Section 4410 of Article 89 of the Education Law

• Group or Individual Curriculums at Your Home, Preschool or our Center.

• Diagnostic Evaluations and Therapy by Licensed Certified Professionals. Placement determined by NYC CPSE. • NYS Approved Preschool Evaluation Site.

• FREE TUITION AND TRANSPORTATION* * For all eligibile children. Funding provided through state and local agencies. Parent may transport for reimbursement.

• Developmental Areas: Behavior and Socialization, Cognitive Development, Speech and Language Hearing Loss, Physical and Occupational Therapy.

• Three Convenient Staten Island Locations.

• Call or Visit our School & Pick Up a Free Brochure.

• For Information Concerning the Early Intervention Program Call 311.

WWW.GINGERBREADLCTR.COM ~Equal Opportunity Employer~

Ages 0-5 Programs Available 718 80 Woodrow Rd • 471 North Gannon Ave • 144 Bloomingdale Rd E-Mail: GingerbreadLearn@aol.com

5 Days - Full Day/Half Day

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

Extended Daycare Hours 7am-7pm Available AUGUST 2013

www.siparent.com

115

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