Staten Island Parent June 2013

JUNE 2013

.com SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PARENTING

GREAT GIFTS for GRADS CICADAS

Gross or Exciting?

HOORAY FOR DADS!

• Giveaways • Reviews • & More

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TABLE OF CONTENTS JUNE 2013

ADVERTISER INDEX 125

COVER STORY

Examine The Benefits of Outdoor Play

Now that the weather is cooperating, children (and adults) are craving more outdoor time. Instinctively, you know it just feels right. But, there’s more to it than just plain fun—playing outside is downright educational!

Read more on page 66

ARTICLES

COLUMNS 34 Good Sports

30 Love & Marriage Series: Part Two United We Stand-- Married With Children

by Joe LoVerde

36 Stay at Home Dads on the Rise

42 Dear Teacher

At-home parenting is not just for Moms

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

44 The View from Shore A dad looks back on his relationship with his daughter

50 The South Shore Artists The history behind the annual art show

52 Great Gifts for Grads Finding the perfect gift for that special graduate

56 Message to Hurricane Sandy Victims Project Hope counselors available to help

48 Growing Up Online

by Carolyn Jabs

88 Parent & Child Time

by Ann Clinton

68 11 Do-It-Yourself Ideas Fun and free ways to celebrate Dad

74 The Hidden Truth of Parenting: Kids need Dad

78 Teaching Table Manners to Toddlers Helpful tips to teach kids to act polite at the table

80 SPF and Your Children

by GiGi & Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker

S. I. LIVING 20 Community & School News 26 Star Worthy 61 Birth Announcements 94 Library Hours 94 Family Calendar

What’s best when it comes to sunscreen

82 Dogs Don’t Say “I Love You” With a Hug Myths behind canine behavior

86 The Myth of the Perfect Stepparent How resilience can help you thrive

4 Father’s Day DVD Giveaway 48 Father’s Day Giveaway 61 Daddy Swag Giveaway 90 Contest Winners 91 Find the Hidden Cake 91 Facebook Cover Kid 119 Birthday Club

92 GiGi’s World

62 Cicada Swarm 2013 What’s behind all the buzz!

CONTESTS & CLUBS

SPECIAL SECTIONS 28 Fireworks Spectacular!

60 OMG...I’m a Mom!

FAMILY NEEDS 72 It’s In The Cards 114 Party Services 120 Family Classifieds 122 Professional Directory

Make Sure You Check Out Our

PARTY PLANNING DIRECTORY

online @ siparent.com.

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

www.siparent.com/digital_magazine.php

CarnivalKids

Sizzling Summer Special

FREE Facepainting or Balloon Making – $50+ value!

With any package.

The Greatest Party On Earth!

INDOOR BIG TOP CARNIVAL FEATURING

Carnival games (skee ball, baseball toss, crazy cans, ring toss, darts, tip the troll, gone fishing, etc.), juggling, magic shows, hula hooping, fortune-telling, spin art, sand art, clowns, costume characters, face painting, balloon making, temporary tattoos, karaoke, corn dogs, lemonade, jellyapples, cotton candy, snow cones & more!!!

No Open Play On Your Special Day!

KID’S NIGHT OUT

FRIDAY, JUNE 14 7-9:30 AND EVERY WEDNESDAY IN JULY 12:30-3:00.

Kids $1999 • Adults $500–Includes unlimited carnival games, dancing, singing, pizza and refreshments.

718-356-4FUN (4386) • www.carnivalkidssi.com 971 Rossville Ave • Corner of Gunton Place ONE PARTY AT A TIME!

FREE

Kosher Parties Available

Make-up & Nail Art $140.00+ value!

With any package.

Your Princess and her guests will be pampered in a Hollywood style spa, elegantly decorated with the friendliest, professional staff.

A true ONE-OF-A-KIND experience!

Princess Party Package

2 hours, 12 children, free gift for party girl, 3 party hosts, manicure & pedicure, pizza, refreshments, snack mix, invitations. karaoke, games, prizes, paper goods. Starts at $349.99

Boys Welcome

-in Walksdays e n Wed12-5pmis, pedis,

man , create p ring Offe make u gloss or hair, own lip e! your fragranc

Staten Island 4108 Hylan Blvd • 718.356.PARTY (7278)

Party Extras Manicure, pedicure, chocolate facials, hair with feather extensions, make up, glitter tattoos, make your own lip gloss and fragrance, design a shirt, spin art, face painting, custom charatcters and much, more!!!

Girl Scout Troop Parties Starting at $19.99 per girl. Mon-Thurs. Minimum 15 girls.

Brooklyn 8216 13th Ave • 718.238.PARTY (7278) JUNE 2013

www.siparent.com

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The Wall Street Journal recently discussed a study on at-home dads in the Journal of Consumer Research based on interviews, dad blogs, online research, and observations.

This study suggests dads “take pride in letting their children take more risks on the playground, compared with their spouses. They tend to jettison daily routines in favor of spontaneous adventures with the kids. And many use technology or DIY skills to squeeze household budgets, or find shortcuts through projects and chores.”

Andrea Kelly is obviously proud of her husband Tim and his skills as a father. Grayson and Carter are bright, articulate, and polite, and she credits his involvement as a parent, saying, “On a constant basis, I am told that I am so lucky, and I am. He’s amazing with children. Not afraid to get his hands dirty and get involved. He’s surpassed my expectations.” She also credits her husband with her children’s early talking and expansive vocabularies, citing her observation that men are less likely to use baby talk with young children.

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Tim adds he was initially intimidated by judgment or opinions from others, especially women who would look at him strangely when he was out and about with his children.

As he eased into his new role, he began to tell himself, “I don’t care what that lady thinks. I’m doing my thing.” Now a seasoned dad, he’s not above dancing and singing in grocery store aisles to amuse his children. “Kids need superheroes. The closest I can come to being a superhero is making them laugh. The power of being a dad is pretty awesome,“ he said.

Blurring the Lines Between Gender Roles Tim feels it’s harder for the older generations who are used to the traditional gender roles that have been portrayed in the media, popular culture, and by friends and neighbors. He recently said that his mother’s boyfriend, some thirty years his senior, shared with him that, “It’s

FATHER’S DAY

>>>

THE VIEW FROM SHORE A Dad’s Perspective on Raising His Daughter

n a few weeks, my oldest daughter is leaving for college. Almost every day, someone asks me: “How does it feel?”

I

My usual answer is a pained smile and a shrug. What do you call it when you’re equal parts heartbroken and relieved? It’s complicated.

Maddie’s been leaving for years now. She turned on the booster rockets at about age 15, and you could feel the pressure building up beneath her as the launch date approached. I tried to be the solid ground for her jets to push against. But sometimes I was more like scorched earth.

FATHERS AND DAUGHTERS: THE RELATIONSHIP IS OFTEN COMPLICATED.

I know—it’s a tired old complaint.

Parents of teenagers have been whining since the first young pterodactyl soiled its nest and took to the sky. But really, how could we feel any different?

that. She interrupted, and protested, and tried to make me stop. At one point, she almost got out of the car and walked home.

When your kids are first born, you find a way to make them a part of you. You slice your heart open and sew them up inside. Then, in the blink of an eye (two seconds, two decades—what’s the difference?) they rip themselves out of your life and take a chunk of you with them.

The whole thing left me shaken and confused. In a way, I was relieved to know that she thought our relationship was “fine.” But what about all my knife wounds? Maybe they weren’t knives at all. Maybe they were shrapnel, and I just happened to be on the bomb squad. Maybe I should have kept my big mouth shut.

The other day, Maddie and I had a strange argument. We were driving home after a long, difficult day, and both our fuses were pretty short. She started saying snarky things (or maybe just normal things in a really snarky way—how do they get so good at that?) and I decided to draw the line. I told her I didn’t want our relationship to be this way.

“What are you talking about?” she said. “Our relationship is fine. I’m supposed to be like this with you—you’re my father.”

I pressed on. I told her that her words cut me, and that her coldness shut me out. But it seemed like she couldn’t hear

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But since that day, things between us have been much better. Like I said, it’s complicated.

So that’s where we stand as these last few weeks slip away, and I try to imagine life without her. My term as her limitsetter and rule-maker in chief will finally be over. The difficult rhythms of our blended family will get a little less difficult.

My shrapnel wounds will start to heal, and soon I’ll be able to see the floor of her room again. And, oh yeah—there’ll be a gaping hole in the middle of my chest.

Years ago, when she was just a baby, I took a songwriting class. On the first day, the instructor asked us what we wanted to write about. I told him I was a little overwhelmed

SAFETY

>>>

DOGS DON’T SAY ‘I LOVE YOU’ WITH A HUG

hen a dog bite occurs, it is generally assumed the dog was at fault. According to animal control officer and national dog bite consultant Melissa Berryman, who founded the Dog Owner Education and Community Safety Council (www.doecsc.org), “Dog owners are set up for failure because our default is to blame the dog. Owners get fined or sued for repeated human mistakes. Dogs often pay with their lives for mistakes made by people.”

W

“Prevention has to be the priority,” says Berryman, who LEARN HOW TO PREVENT DOG BITES BY SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION. has spent years studying dog bites. “Sure, it’s cute to us when the baby hugs the dog. But by tapping your hand on your thigh simulating a wagging dogs do not say ‘I love you’ with a hug. When one dog ‘hugs’ tail and act friendly. The dog will relax and nuzzle you, need another, it’s an act of domination. It should be a given that to sniff more to get to know you, or will stay away. people do not hug dogs. Yet the message for children to hug dogs is prevalent in our culture and the facial bites continue.”

Myth: Breed dictates temperament.

What are some other common misperceptions people can have about dog and human behaviors–and how you–can change to prevent catastrophes? Berryman shares these five: Myth: When greeting a new dog, you should extend your hand for it to sniff.

Fact: Dogs don't sniff each other's paws when greeting and like us, prefer to be asked before being touched by a stranger. Instead, ask the owner and then also ASK the dog

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Fact: Dogs, first and foremost, are predatory canines that live in groups. Breeds are generalizations that enable breeders to better market the product they sell. What dictates temperament is their pack position, the role you, the human, play in the group and the rank of group members.

Dogs have superior/inferior interrelationships and command and defer accordingly. And just as siblings in a family have the same parents yet are very different, one cannot purchase behavior by buying a dog of a certain breed.

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Preschool Story Time Todt Hill – Westerleight Library 718-494-1642 11:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free

Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free

St. George Greenmarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt Street 8am-2pm • All ages • Free admission

Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 2:30pm • Adults • Free

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

Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Puzzle and Coloring Hour West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 0-11 • Free

AMERICAN CONCERT & FIREWORKS DISPLAY Saturday, June 29

SATURDAY, JUNE 29

Celebrate American Concert & Fireworks Display 6:30-9:00 p.m. – Wolfe’s Pond Park Fireworks at 9:00 p.m. Rain date: June 30 The 64th Annual Kutztown Folk Festival Kutztown Fairgrounds 888-674-6136 9am-6pm • All ages • $14/$13/$5 Annual Island-wide Butterfly Count Island-wide 718-483-7110 8:30am • All ages • Free Family Camping/UPR Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1pm • Ages 6+ • Free

Wolfe's Pond Park 6:30-9pm All ages Free 718-816-2133 Head to Wolfe's Pond Park with the family Saturday night for a Celebrate American Concert and a Fireworks display. Fireworks will begin at 9pm. Rain date for the event will be Sunday, June 30.

Up4Art S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1,2&3pm Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Family Movies New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2pm • All ages • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 11am-1pm; 2-4pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

112www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

SUNDAY, JUNE 30

Forensix Entomology Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR

ONLINE CALENDAR? Visit www.siparent.com’s Home Page and click on the “More Events” button under the calendar icon

ADVERTISER INDEX Academic Advantage ..................................70

Hampton Inn ..................................................103

Richmond County Day Camp ....................11

American Karate ..........................................101

Hibachi Grill ....................................................14

Richmond County Savings Bank ..................2

Archdiocese of NY ..........................................51

High Hopes ......................................................91

Richmond Hill Children’s Center ..................91

Art Lab................................................................59

Holy Child..........................................................92

Roller Jam ........................................................71

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

Huntington Learning Center ........................38

Seido Karate ....................................................76

Babes in Toyland ............................................69

Infiniti Dance Studio ........................................38

Sesame Place ..................................................99

Barbara Rauch Tutoring ................................64

Inspirations in Dance ....................................86

Showplace Entertainment ............................33

Big Bird’s Playhouse ......................................105

iPlay America ..................................................57

SI Academy ......................................................83

Big Bird’s Summer Camp ..............................49

J & J Academy ................................................53

SI Children’s Academy ..................................43

Blue Heron Family Fest....................................37

JCC Day Camp ..............................................93

SI Children’s Museum ....................................81

Bodyline Pilates................................................24

JCC Richmond Gymnastics..........................75

SI Chinese Christian Church..........................79

Boy Scout Pouch Camp ................................53

Jenkinson’s/Casino Pier ................................27

SI Community Charter School......................53

Bricks 4 Kidz ....................................................113

Keansburg Amusements................................80

SI Community Tennis ......................................97

Brienza’s Academic Advantage..................45

Kevin B. Zazzera................................................55

SI Dental ..........................................................126

Building Blocks Montessori ..........................48

Kiddie Palooza/Liquid Lounge ....................39

SI Family Music ................................................24

Building Blocks Speech ................................54

Kiddie Wonderland ......................................113

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

Camp Gan Israel ............................................22

Kids ‘N Shape....................................................18

SI Pee Wee Football ......................................87

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

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

SI Physician’s Practice ....................................15

Casa Belvedere ............................................118

Kidzrock ..........................................................107

SI Wrestling Academy ....................................37

Casa Belvedere Cooking Class ................121

Kumon of Silver Lake ....................................101

Silhouette Dance Center ..............................49

Children at Play ............................................105

LA Dance ..........................................................29

SIMH Early Recognition ..................................87

Community Resources Preschool................97

Land of Make Believe ....................................89

SIUH ....................................................................65

Costanzo’s Martial Arts ................................111

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

Small World Dental..........................................12

CSI Summer Programs....................................77

Mastropiero Pools............................................23

Small World Preschool..................................101

D’Agostino & Associates ................................47

Mathnasium ....................................................84

South Shore Auto Leasing..............................43

Dance Sensations............................................64

Medieval Times ..............................................111

South Shore Toddler Academy ..................37

Dea Music ........................................................35

Melissa’s Dance Workshop ..........................78

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

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

Mini World Preschool ....................................89

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

Dr. Michael Di Simone ....................................63

Miss Caroline’s Dance Elite............................45

St. John Villa Academy ..................................84

Dr. Michelle Giumenta....................................70

Monster Jam ....................................................90

St. Joseph Hill Academy ................................58

E.J. Michael’s ..................................................58

My Happy Place..............................................23

St. Paul’s School of Nursing..........................109

Ed Perpetua Tennis Academy ......................81

New Dorp Christian Academy ..................109

St. Teresa’s School ............................................90

Edible Arrangements......................................23

New Dorp Moravian Church ........................81

The Child Study Center of NY........................77

Eltingville Lutheran School ..........................113

Oakwood Heights Community Church ....79

The Village Preschool......................................86

Evolution Dance Company ..........................34

On Your Toes ....................................................59

Therapy Pros ....................................................63

Exposure Dance ..............................................54

Once Upon a Child ........................................58

Travis 4th of July Parade ................................25

Eye Level Math & English ..............................85

Our Lady Star of the Sea..............................111

Tutoring By Christine........................................23

Fairy Lice Mothers............................................54

Our Place School ............................................97

Victory Gymnastics ........................................42

Farrell Driver’s Ed ..............................................88

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

Vincent La Bella Painting ..............................34

Fastbreak Basketball ......................................69

Parent to Parent ............................................109

Volunteers of America....................................59

FasTracKids........................................................85

Party Jam Party Centers ................................21

Wagner Summer Programs ..........................78

Financial Integrity Services............................40

Party Jungle......................................................41

Wildwood New Jersey....................................46

Fun Station ........................................................17

Phyllis Merlino, DDS........................................105

Wizard of Art......................................................80

Fun Station Camp ..........................................16

Pole Position Raceway ..................................42

Young Peoples Day Camp ............................9

Games on Wheels ..........................................76

Pottery & Glass Land ......................................48

Zion Lutheran Preschool ................................69

Gingerbread Learning Center ..................127

Rab’s Country Lanes ......................................19

Great Adventure ............................................124

Rab’s Country Lanes Youth Programs ........92

Grounded Dancers ........................................40

Rebounderz ......................................................29

Hair Angel NY ..................................................46

Relax on Cloud Nine ......................................45

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Readers, For so many of us, the summer of 1996 is embedded in our mind as the “Year of the Cicadas.” I clearly remember my daughter Nicole, who was 9 years old at the time, being disappointed that we could not enjoy our backyard in Oakwood because the grass was filled with cicadas. Now, seventeen years later, the cicada invasion left no visible scars, and she is merely curious about their life cycle. If you share this curiosity (or want to explain what all that noise is to your kids) read Barbara Russo’s article, “Cicada Swarm 2013” on page 62.

Share with us on Facebook what your family’s experience is with these insects.

Notwithstanding the cicada invasion, we should all be encouraging our children to enjoy the outdoors if we want to boost their learning ability. Our cover article “Examine the Benefits of Outdoor Play,” on page 66, shows all the ways kids learn and grow intellectually when they spend time playing in nature. Did you realize that leadership skills are developed as a result of outdoor play? Observe your child as he or she plays with peers. What can you do to help promote creativity, problem solving, or other skills?

If you are celebrating a wedding anniversary this month (and even if you aren’t), now’s a good time to take stock of where your marriage stands on your priority list. In Marianna Randazzo’s series, “Love and Marriage,” on page 30, she advises us to “not use the kids as an excuse not to spend time with your spouse.” She reminds us to go back to focusing on keeping our marriages happy during the childrearing years. There are so many ways to celebrate your marriage that need not be expensive or elaborate. Read her article for some quick, easy, and local suggestions. Let us know how you and your spouse made your special day distinctive.

June is also the month that many grads share with their dads. Is there a dual celebration in your family this year? Remember to give each person the special recognition they deserve. To this year’s graduates—from PreK to College and beyond— Congratulations! We know you worked hard to reach this day. For the men who are dads or who play a father role in the life of a child, we hope you enjoy the day in the way that means the most to you.

We begin a new season in June—the favorite for many of us— Summer.

What are you planning to do to make it a special summer for your family?

Go get a pen and write that list. Why? It is said that we need to write down the things that we want to accomplish in our lives in order to give them more significance. Now take a look at the list. What’s at the top? Share your thoughts with us.

See you on Facebook!

STAFF

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

• • • •

The Last Stand Stand up Guys Dark Circles Ultimate Guide to the Presidents • Ice Road Truckers: Season 6 • Mountain Men: Season 1 • Snitch • Ring of Fire

Over $200 in value.

2 winners will be chosen.

Roselle EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht

8 DVD’S PERFCT FOR THE MAN OF THE HOUSE!

Enter Online @ www.siparent.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & FINANCES Linda Bellesi EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Elizabeth Thompson OFFICE ASSISTANT Carole Stillman DISTRIBUTION Orlando Moreno

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen Janine Mulé Kitty Masi Cecilia Saccomagno TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Alex Levy INTERNS Kristen Foster Jocelyn Johnson

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.

1200 South Avenue, Suite 202 • Staten Island, New York 10314 Advertising: 718.761.4800 x139 | Email: info@siparent.com

www.siparent.com

Regi Now ster Sum for m & Sa er ve!

Fall ion Registrat Now Open

Sports Center

Newly Expanded 14,000 Sq. Ft Air-Conditioned Facility

2013

Photo by Sal-Mar Studios

At Athletic Edge Sports Center Summer Camp, children ages 4-12 will receive professional instruction in Gymnastics, Dance and Cheer Technique. Other activities will include: arts & crafts, basketball, soccer, football, baseball, hockey & martial arts. Our full time campers will also enjoy special days which include pizza, ice cream, water games and movies. Our camp will be indoors and outdoors (weather permitting). Our staff is full of trained professionals with the goal of teaching your child the sport of their expertise in a safe and fun environment. All employees are safety certified and trained in CPR.

JULY 1-AUGUST 9 • 1 to 6 Weeks • 2 to 5 Days a Week • Full Days (9-3) or Half Days (9-12)

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ANY CAMP PROGRAM With early camp registration. One coupon per family. Expires 6/30/13.

SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE 9:00-9:35am Morning Stretch • 9:35-10:15am Tumble Track & Vault • 10:15-10:50am Sports 10:50-11:25am Art & Snack • 11:25am-12:00pm Beam & Bars • 12:00-12:35pm Trampoline & Cheer 12:35-1:15pm LUNCH • 1:15-1:50pm Tumbling & Free Plays • 1:50-2:25pm Dance, Boys-Rings & PBars • 2:25-3:00pm Sports Conditioning • 3:00pm Pick-Up

1/2 Off REGISTRATION New students only.

Expires 6/30/13.

10 Nassau Place (Off Arthur Kill Road) 718.608.0100 • www.AthleticEdgeNY.com

JUNE 2013

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FREE NEW PATIENT EXAMINATION

Michael D’Anna, DDS Enjoy the Summer & Beat the rush!

Call today to schedule your appointment!

• We provide orthodontic care for adults and children • All treatment chairs and instruments sterilized after every patient • State of the art self-ligating brackets in metal & clear • Invisalign 2013 preferred provider • Digital x-rays • Friendly and courteous staff • Family discount (not applicable with discounted insurance fees)

Summer Savings

$500 OFF FULL MOUTH BRACES OR $500 OFF FULL INVISALIGN TREATMENT New patients only. One coupon per customer.

Not valid with any other offers and cannot be combined with reduced fee insurance.

Must bring coupon. Expires 6/30/13.

MORE MONEY SAVING OFFERS: • Reasonable fees • 0% Financing • Multiple forms of payment accepted: (mc, visa, amex, discover, checks & cash)

• Contests and giveaways • Free home care kit given to every patient when the braces are placed (includes everything you will need to help care for your braces)

We work closely with most insurance plans and offer flexible payment arrangements with no interest financing.

American Association of Orthodontics recommends an Orthodontic evaluation by 7 years of age.

115 Seguine Avenue • 718.948.4384 Staten Island, NY 10309 Ample off street parking Practice Limited to Orthodontics

www.moveatooth.com

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"LIKE" us on Facebook! facebook.com/Michael D’Anna DDS

JUNE 2013

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K I D S

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E D N S T A D I L K 4864 ARTHUR KILL RD 718-356-KIDS (5437) SECOND LOCATION 1839 N. Railroad Ave Corner of Guyon Ave 718-667-KIDS (5437)

for a e in and m Co ning nt me clea e treat a . ive rid fluo d rece y exam an entar nly. o plim ients com w pat ing Ne

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Helping Kids One Smile at a Time!

DR. LISA LAZZARA Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Over 17 Years Specialty Experience

We child ages ren of al l , youn teens, g ad ult and spec s i need al s

treat

Your chil d will SMILE after a v isit with Dr. L isa!!

State-of-the-Art Pediatric Dental Office Relax in our Submarine Waiting Room.

You can have treatment in the Underwater, Beach or Nautical Room.

• Have Your Child’s First Dental Experience be a Positive One • Your Child’s Happiness and Dental Health are our #1 Priority • Come to Either Location for a Unique and Gentle Visit • General Anesthesia and Sedation Available

www.sidentist4kids.com Major Insurances Accepted. Visa/Mastercard Accepted.

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THAN to ou KS r1 of fam 00's ilies for m a k ing u the m s ost p opula day c r amp on SI !

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Private, Air-Conditioned Facility

1075 Woodrow Road ALL SPORTS AND SWIMMING KARATE, FENCING, ARTS & CRAFTS & DANCE DAILY TRIPS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Larry Marantz, Director Adult supervision, full time RN, special diet lunches, CIT program Free payment plans. Sibling discounts. No registration or membership fees.

www.rcdaycamp.com • 718-761-1492 JUNE 2013

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SMALL WORLD DENTAL OFFERS COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL CARE FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES AND THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. Our child-friendly office is equipped with the latest and modern technology including digital radiography as well as TVs and toys for children to enjoy in our themed treatment rooms.

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

Dr. Abhinav Sinha is also the Director of the Children’s Dental Center at New York Presbyterian Hospital (ranked #1 in NY) and is Assistant Professor of Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College.

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News

A guide to community events

It’s June! Your school children may be sighing in relief, but you may be panicking and thinking: What will I do to keep them busy?

Where’s the summer reading book list? How many days until the first day of school? Never fear--SI Parent is here! Be sure to keep a copy of our magazine nearby so that you’re always in the know about what’s going on and what’s fun to do in the community this summer. And just in case your magazine gets soggy from being thrown in the bag with a wet beach towel, remember that you can “like” our page on Facebook and we’ll keep you posted on your computer, smartphone, or tablet. (Isn’t technology wonderful?)

We’d also like to give a special shout-out to all those amazing dads out there. Happy Father’s Day!

Farmstand Is Open for the Season

S.I. Chuck Becomes a Father!

The St. George Greenmarket is now open and selling fruit, vegetables, plants, and other fresh-from-the-farm merchandise. Located at St. Marks and Hyatt Streets, right inside the parking lot of the St. George Theatre, the Greenmarket will be open for business from 8 am to 2 pm on Saturdays through November 23. Happy (and healthy) shopping!

Too bad our favorite groundhog can’t read - he’d probably get a lot out of SI Parent these days! That’s right, Charles G. Hogg of the Staten Island Zoo is the proud papa of three little groundhogs - two girls and a boy. Oddly enough, the trio was born on the first day of spring!

Art Exhibit Returns to the Ferry Art by the Ferry, sponsored by the Staten Island Creative Community, is returning this summer to St. George.

The exhibit will kick off with the 6th Annual Arts Festival on Sunday, June 2 at the St. George Terminal Platform (60 and 70 Bay Street) from 12 - 8 pm. This event and the exhibit are free to the public, though donations are gratefully accepted.

The exhibit will run from June 2 - July 28; hours are 12-6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays and 12-2 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

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The groundhogs aren’t the only new residents at the Zoo. There are more than a dozen other newborns, including two emu chicks, seven lambs, two Swinhoe pheasants, and three Dusky Pygmy rattlesnakes. Zoo officials say that as many as 30 other “babies” are on their way this spring. Welcome to the world, little ones!

Annual Conference for Women in Business The West Brighton Community Local Development Corporation and the Staten Island Business Outreach Center will host the 9th Annual 21st Century Business Woman Conference on Wednesday, June 19 from 8 am.to 2:30 pm at

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News the Old Bermuda Inn (301 Veterans Road).

The $85 ticket permits access to a full day of networking, breakout sessions, and vendors. Breakfast and lunch will also be served. For more information, visit www.siwomensbusinesscenter.com or email conference@westbrightonldc.com.

S.I. Tech Climbs the Ranks Staten Islanders have long been aware of the first-rate educational experience offered at S.I. Tech, but now the rest of the country knows it. U.S. News & World Report recently released its annual high school rankings, which listed the New Dorp school as 40th in the country and 5th in the state.

This is a significant increase from last year’s rankings, which had Staten Island Technical High School as 77th in the country and 13th in the state.

U.S. News & World Report is known for its annual educational reports, which include rankings on everything from graduate schools to high schools. The high school rankings began in 2007, and S.I. Tech has been included on the list ever since.

Congratulations to the faculty, staff, and students at S.I.Tech!

Keep Kids Reading This Summer Summer is a great time for reading, but what if you’ve got a reluctant reader on your hands? Scholastic has a wonderful contest challenge that is taking place now through September 6. By logging in minutes read each day, kids can earn virtual rewards. The online Reading Meter can also see how far they “travel” around the world by the accumulation of their reading minutes, and they can learn about world landmarks along the way.

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Parents who like to read can also join the fun by “liking” the Scholastic Parents Facebook page, where they can get free information, ideas for reading activities, and book discounts and giveaways. There will also be a monthly Facebook Chat that can provide further advice on how parents

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News can challenge their children to keep reading.

Of course, Scholastic can’t forget about teachers during the summer. Now through June 30, teachers can register their classes for the Scholastic Summer Challenge and get a chance to win a free classroom library. The school that logs the most reading minutes will be honored with a visit from Dav Pilkey, author of the popular Captain Underpants series. The top 20 schools will be recognized in the 2014 Scholastic Book of World Records, and the top school in each state will receive a plaque.

For more information on Scholastic’s Summer Reading Challenge, visit www.scholastic.com/summer.

Fun and Learning Share Top Bill at Carnival Check out our Summer class schedule & register online at www.SIFamilyMusic.com FREE DEMO CLASS

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The Staten Island Children’s Museum will host its Carnival and Science Spectacular on Saturday, June 8 from 1-4 pm. (A raindate is set for Sunday, June 9.)

The carnival will combine both fun and learning by way of rides, robots, clowns, bounces, games, music, workshops, and more. Tickets are $15 per person, although the price is $12 for SICM members and those who pay in advance.

Visit www.statenislandkids.org or call 718-273-2060 for more information.

Statue of Liberty Set to Reopen Closed to the public since Hurricane Sandy, The Statue of Liberty will reopen on July 4th, just in time to celebrate our country’s independence. There is no planned re-opening date for the Immigration Museum on Ellis Island.

For information on how to plan your visit this summer, please visit www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm or call 718-354-4741.

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One of America's oldest, Independence Day parades!

THURSDAY, JULY 4TH, 2013 CEREMONY: 12:00pm PS 26 • 4108 Victory Blvd PARADE STEP OFF: 12:30pm Showplace Entertainment Center 141 East Service Rd

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25

Star Worthy

Do you have a story about a Staten Islander who has gone above and beyond for a fellow citizen or their community? Tell us about them so we can tell everyone!

Go to www.siparent.com and click on Star Worthy under the Contests & Clubs tab.

Honoring Local Heroes

Kelly Bargisen Kelly Bargisen and Allison Tagliaferro have been best of friends since they were twelve years of age.

Kelly is a single mom who has a twenty-year old daughter. However, she has always made time to help Allison with her own four special needs children. She does not hesitate to get on a bus to help her dear friend Allison whenever there is a need- emergency or not.

Allison has always admired Kelly since they were children. “She has had a very hard life. She lived with her grandma when we met and when her grandma passed away, she had to go back to her mom. She was a young mom, her child's dad died about 5 years ago. Her mom passed away and she was left to survive solely with her child,” said Allison.

Kelly has been like a sister to Allison; she is the first person she calls, even before her own family.

“My kids are a lot to handle, each has special needs of some sort,” she tells us.

It is difficult for her to get the help she needs but according to Allison, “Kelly always runs to my side.”

Recently, Allison had major surgery. A bone was taken from her hip and put into her neck to fix a huge herniation. She had to be in the hospital for three days. Kelly and her daughter helped run her house.

Allison was not able to lift anything, including her one-year old son. Kelly and her daughter stayed for four weeks helping Allison’s husband run the house and care for the children.

“This is just one example–if her recent generosity and help. She is here every time one of my kids has to be admitted to the hospital for their lungs or asthma or any other overnight hospital stay. She stays from start until release every time,” Allison said.

Kelly is truly a star-worthy person to Allison and her family and, we are sure, to many of the people she encounters.

We wish her good luck in college and in her career.

Judy Decker When Jackie Carucci read about our Star Worthy column, it took her no time to realize what special woman in her life should be recognized. It was her mother, Judy Decker.

Jackie shared with us how difficult her mom’s life has been in the last seven years.

“First my dad past from cancer very suddenly, then her younger brother and sister.

Yet through all this turmoil, my mom has managed to run a house, work a job, and visit with her grandkids often. And she does this all with a smile on her face. She is one of a kind; her grandkids adore her and she has quality time with each of them.”

Her family knows she is amazing, kind, and loving. Yet, it is the random acts of kindness that everyone knows are part of her nature that make her sparkle. She is the type of woman who steps in when she sees a need, whether it is financial, physical, social, or emotional.

Judy Decker is known as “Nanny” to many children, even those beyond the family.

She knows the value of spending time with children and she enjoys devoting special quality time with each child individually, as well as collectively.

According to Jackie, her mother is an amazing woman who embraces life and those all around her.

She is very grateful to have her as a mom and a friend. She knows that everything good about her own life is because of her mom.

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27

Summer 2013

FIREWORKS

S p e c tac u la r TIMES, LOCATION & EVENTS MAY CHANGE. VERIFY WITH VENUE BEFORE ATTENDING.

Jenkinson’s Fireworks at Dark Date: Thursdays, June 20 – August 29 • 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.

Colts Neck Fair Date: Friday, June 28 & Saturday, June 29 Time: 10pm Cost: Free w/admission Location: 105 Bucks Mill Road, Colts Neck, NJ 07722 Contact: 732-462-8500 • www.coltsneckfair.com

Friday Night Fireworks at Wildwood Date: Fridays, June 28 – August 30 • Thursday, July 4 Time: 10pm Cost: Free Location: Pine Avenue & the Beach Contact: 609-523-1602 • www.dowildwood.com

Concert & Fireworks Display at Wolfe’s Pond Park Date: Saturday, June 29 (Rain date: Sunday, June 30) Time: 9pm Cost: Free Location: Wolfe’s Pond Park Contact: www.statenislandusa.com Concert begins at 6:30pm.

State Fair at the Meadowlands Fireworks Display Date: Wednesday, July 3 & Thursday, July 4 Time: At sundown Cost: Free w/admission Location: 102 NJ State Highway 120, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 Contact: www.njfair.com State Fair Meadowlands features quality rides, plenty of free entertainment, games and prizes, and a variety of foods.

Ocean City Fourth of July Celebration Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: At sundown Cost: Free Location: 9th Street Beach, Ocean City, NJ Contact: 609-525-9300 • www.ocnj.us A kite flying competition begins at 5pm.

Annual Fireworks Display at Beachwood Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: 8pm Cost: Free Location: 1600 Pinewald Rd, Beachwood, NJ 08722 Contact: www.beachwoodusa.com

Seaside Heights Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: 9:30pm Cost: Free Location: Seaside Heights, NJ Contact: www.exit82.com

Long Branch 23rd Annual Oceanfest Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: 9pm Cost: Free Location: Between Seven Presidents Park and the Ocean Place Resort & Spa Contact: 732-222-0400 Oceanfest features live bands, strolling entertainers, master sand sculpting demonstrations, music, various food vendors, and much more. The event will be from 10am to 10pm.

Bridgewater Independence Day Family Festival Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: At Sundown Cost: Free admission Location: North Branch Park, Bridgewater, NJ Contact: 908-722-1200 ext. 225 Festival features children’s entertainers and activities, including horse rides, moonwalk, giant slide, magic show, and much more.

Festival will be from 5pm to 11pm.

Belmar Fireworks Date: Friday, July 12 Time: At sundown Cost: Free Location: Ocean Avenue between 2nd & 6th Contact: www.belmar.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.

Go to siparent.com for more firework events!

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29

LOVE

& MARRIAGE Series

Game Plan for Family Part II:

After working all day, in or out of the home (or both!), feeding the family, doing homework, taking children to school and afterschool activities, cooking, housekeeping, and putting the kids to bed, the last thing on your mind is working on a happy marriage. However, a happy marriage is the core of a happy home and it deserves your attention.

The balance between children and a happy life is a constant struggle. The life you once had, the one where you sang “There's nowhere in the world that I would rather be than with you my love,’ looking forward to being alone with your spouse is now being replaced by looking forward to a peaceful day, without incidence, disasters or trips to doctor’s offices, and the high demands of educating children.

So why is it important to take a few minutes every day to focus on keeping your marriage happy? Because, everyone will be better for it—especially you.

Children can and will cause a gap between what was once a tight husband/wife bond. It is only natural as the circle grows. The trick is to keep the love and excitement alive around the children.

A happy marriage does not just happen without work and commitment. The true test of its strength is when the children arrive.

After an exhausting day of work and kids, it is easy to fall into a relationship rut with your spouse. Childrearing routines are, by nature, repetitive, and can leave you feeling banal and uninspired. It is easy to

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get overwhelmed and emotionally drift away from the spouse you once adored and wanted to spend every minute of your life with. It happens.

Getting Back on Track by Making Your Marriage a Priority Children will grow up and eventually leave for college, military, marriage, or just to be on their own. (Hopefully before the age of thirty.)

Then what? Then it is back to the two founding members of the family: husband and wife.

Ou timeless co our lives. depth, discover

As a parent, it is easy and natural to put the needs of the children first; after all, they are your responsibility. Nevertheless, don’t forget how those children got here and who it was that made you want them. Do not use the kids as an excuse not to spend time with your spouse. It is important to set an example for children, to let them see what a happy and healthy marriage is so they can know what to strive for in their own relationships. Also, they will have to eventually learn that the world does not revolve around only them.

NEXT M

It is easy to show affection to our children and it is equally important to maintain physical contact with your spouse. Appropriate hugs and kisses in front of the children send the message of how much you two still love each other. My own children often laughed at such affection and went as far as to call it ‘gross,’ but it was affirming to them that we truly loved each other as much as we loved them.

bac

ur three-part series examines how this ombination changes over the course of . As we age, its meaning develops more adds new layers. At each stage, we can r more about ourselves and the one we chose to spend our life with.

MONTH: Part III–Coming Full Circle After the children are grown and it's ck to just the two of you, you'll be glad you didn't neglect your relationship.

Make a Plan to Stay Close Do fun things right here on Staten Island. Instead of going out on ordinary dates such as dinner, attend a concert or show at the St. George Theater or check out what productions are being given at our local colleges. Explore the Greenbelt Conservatory that contains NYC’s largest forest preserve. It will bring a sense of peace and quiet and solitude to you and your spouse. Or simply take a long walk and enjoy the beauty of the trees and water.

Enjoying nature is the ultimate cheap date.

Consider exercising and joining classes such as yoga, karate, or aerobics together. Staten Island has health clubs that offer childcare. You will start to associate your relationship with fun again. Many years ago when our children were young, my husband and I attended CSI for swimming lessons, we never mastered the skills, but we still have fond memories of learning together.

Other dates we enjoyed without the children were bowling and getting together with friends. Some commitments were hard to keep because of our work schedules and babysitting issues, but whenever we did, it brought us closer together as a couple.

Sometimes the best dates are at home. Book time at home after the kids’ bedtime to watch a movie or become romantic.

Making appointments doesn’t necessarily take away the fun; it is often too difficult to be spontaneous when the kids drain all of your energy. Planning dates helps you keep on track.

Have Fun Again Forget about the ultimate date of dinner and dancing. Most moms and dads are just too tired to enjoy that.

If possible, have a private lunch together. Working near home during the day and having a husband who worked the night shift had its advantages. We could run to the local diner or pizzeria during my lunch break. For a quick, cheap date, my husband packed a lunch of cheeses, salami and bread and we ate at the park, like we did when we were dating- minus the wine, of course! (I had to get back to work.)

If lunch is not possible, how about breakfast after the kids go to school? You will be more awake and able to enjoy a lively conversation than you would be at night.

If you are lucky enough to arrange babysitting and get away for the weekend, go for it! I had a hard time leaving my children in order to travel, but a weekend in Atlantic City or at a friend’s summer home was close enough for me to feel comfortable. You do not even have to leave the house for a weekend off. Make the kids leave instead. Send them to a friend or family member's home for their own weekend getaway. My husband and I did this when we had out-of-town guests, and the children loved being with their grandma as much as she loved having them stay with her.

Keep the romance alive by trying to remember how it was before the children were born. Being attentive and romantic with candles, massages, lingerie, and little gifts can still be thrilling. Show each other you care and remember the romance.

Here’s another idea: Barnes and Nobles may not seem like a romantic date, but think of the cool atmosphere. The coffee bar

offers refreshment, and the upstairs offers comfortable seating. There are infinite books, magazines, and other media to peruse. We still enjoy browsing through the racks and then sitting for a cup of tea. Bonus: They are open until 11p.m. The whole date could be as cheap as a cup of coffee and a piece of Danish.

Staten Island is full of free or minimally priced cultural events. Check out siparent.com or Staten Island Parent’s Facebook page for continuous coverage of events. Check out the museums and local art galleries for a visually stimulating date. Friending places like Alice Austin House on Facebook will get you invites to cultural events. It really doesn’t matter what you do; it only matters that you are spending quality time together.

Don’t Put Your Relationship on the Back Burner Communication and appreciation are more important now than ever before. Make time to discuss what is going on in your lives. It will probably begin with the children, but make sure you still can talk to each other about other things as well. Do not let things build up inside of you. They will only lead to stress and blow outs later on. Communicate through simple messages, a little love note on a post-it, a nice text message affirming your love or appreciation. Try to keep it positive. Save the negatives for in person discussions.

It is also important not to nag each other. Everyone has different styles of doing things. Nagging happens when our expectations are not met.

If you expect your spouse to be perfect and do everything the way you want, you will always be disappointed.

Try not to make every phone call about something negative. In 1984, Stevie Wonder sang, “I just called to say I love you.” What a wonderful way to be spontaneous and uplifting!

Praise your spouse in front of the children. “What a great dad you have that takes you to soccer!” Alternatively, “How lucky are we to have a mom who reads to us every night.” Appreciation starts at home and the more you model, the more the children will get it.

In my house, before I returned to teaching, the mantra was, “Daddy works two jobs so mom could take care of you guys at home.” Do not be afraid to give compliments. Do not forget to let your spouse know he or she is still attractive to you. Whatever the roles are in your family, show appreciation.

Present a United Front The first 45 record (a disc bigger than a CD, smaller than an LP album) I ever bought was United We Stand and I believe it reflected my parents’ child raising style. They knew that united they stood; divided they fell and when the going got too tough, they were still there for each other.

The going will get tough. Children, life, careers, and relatives all create challenges, but like my parents, when you stand together, the joys are multiplied and grief is divided. Never take the side of the kids against your spouse, even if you disagree with him or her. When there is a disagreement on an issue with the children, discuss it in private. In public, support your spouse. It is the only way to keep the intimacy and trust you have built from falling apart after you have children. In addition, once children see this breach in trust, they can manipulate you and take control.

Money Matters In the first part of this series, I emphasized full disclosure. By now, you know if your spouse is spender, a saver, or a well-balanced bookkeeper.

With children come expenses and priorities. If your clashing money styles were not a problem before babies, they will be now. Budgeting is the best way to stay afloat. Figure out the needs and the wants. When the needs are paid for, then you can splurge on the wants, but best to save for a rainy day or for special occasions.

Have Outside Interests Don't feel guilty if you need a break; you are not alone. Sometimes you need to spend some time apart from everyone, especially if you are the one taking care of the children all day. Fortunately, there are enough fundraisers, Ladies Nights, and other events going on through the schools and local organizations to give you a night out. In my early years of marriage, my girlfriend Sofia and I attended ceramic classes until we had no one left to give all of our wonderful creations. I also spent years taking classes for various subjects, such as computers, and belonged to a Woman’s Italian American Club for a while. Refocusing my mind on a different interest helped relieve the stress of the day, and helped me be a better parent the next day.

Our first child was born during year two of our marriage and for the next twenty-five years, the children dominated the playing field. Although we were both dedicated to our children, we were also very careful to make time for ourselves as a couple. Keeping the basics of quality time with each other kept our marriage strong and allowed us to meet the ongoing demands of our children. Remember, your family’s happiness depends on the health of your marriage.

By Marianna Randazzo, a Staten Island freelance writer who still enjoys dating her husband.

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Ohio State football legend Woody Hayes punched an opposing player in the 1978 Gator Bowl.

Former Indiana basketball coach Bobby Knight once threw a chair across the court during a game.

And, in case you missed it, Rutgers University basketball coach Mike Rice was fired in April after video surfaced of his abusive ways at practice — most notably, angrily flinging basketballs and homophobic slurs at his players from point-blank range.

During a high school basketball game on Staten Island some years back, I witnessed one longtime coach grab a player by the front of his jersey and push him to the bench. The coach’s father, sitting behind me, commented, “I wish my son didn’t feel he needs to be like Bobby Knight.”

The player’s parents were probably saying something else.

If your son plays basketball at the College of Staten Island, this is something you don’t have to worry about. Tony Petosa, the head coach at CSI for 23 years, has always been a gentleman, on and off the court, going back to his days playing for Monsignor Farrell High School.

Coach Petosa teaches and inspires his players while treating them with respect. And he still wins. His record at CSI is 372 victories, 257 defeats, five City University of New York Conference championships, six NCAA tournament appearances and nine trips to the ECAC tourney.

What’s his secret?

“If you are going to coach nowadays, you have to adjust to the kids,” Petosa said. “You have to be more selective in how you handle them.

Players don’t want to constantly be harassed.

“It used to be, if you yelled at a kids, you never got eyes rolled at you.

Now kids will roll their eyes or, worse, quit.”

And that is not what he’s trying to accomplish. He’s trying to mold successful student athletes. He can accomplish that goal in different ways with different players. He cited how he handles his two best players as an example.

“One can take being yelled at; the other one shuts down,” he said. “I don’t yell at the one who shuts down.

“I try to put myself in their position. While you want your players to be successful, you know that they still want to have a good time doing it.”

Petosa himself played for a few “yellers” in his day — Evan Pickman, his coach at CSI, being one of them. “He was loud and verbal,” Petosa said. “But I had so much respect for him that he could have called me anything he wanted to. Pik always had my best interests at heart — to make me a better basketball player.”

Under Pickman’s guidance, Petosa finished his CSI career as its all-time leading scorer (1,684 points) and rebounder (982 rebounds). He still holds the rebound record to this day. The Dolphins went 91-25 during his four years as a player.

Like Pickman, fiery coaches often have redeeming features. Knight, for instance, ran a collegiate program that was well above board, and his players achieved academic success.

But if you recognize bad behavior in one of your child’s coaches, should you stand for it?

Parents are more involved than ever with their children’s sports lives, but many will ignore abusive coaching because they fear it could affect their child’s standing in the eyes of that coach. Petosa said that’s a mistake.

“You know what affects playing time?” he said. “Ability, desire, coachability. A kid who listens and plays hard is going to play, period.”

If you think the coach is crossing the line, Petosa said you should voice your concerns to that coach. And if the bad behavior continues, speak to the person running the program.

“A coach who puts a kid’s physical or emotional health in jeopardy is doing it wrong,” Petosa said.

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FATHER’S DAY

>>>

STAY-AT-HOME DADS ON THE RISE

t-home Dads are popping up everywhere. They’re easily spotted at school bus stops or the parks amongst the sea of moms. Like any of those mothers, he’s just being a parent.

A

Thirty years ago, Michael Keaton played the role of Jack in the movie “Mr. Mom.” A father who lost his job and stayed home with the children while his wife rejoined the workforce, Jack comically struggles to manage the household and care for the children. At the end, each parent returns to the traditional roles. As women break the glass ceiling in the AS FAMILY DYNAMICS EVOLVE, MORE FATHERS ARE MAKING workforce, stay-at-home dads THE CHOICE TO BE THE MAIN CAREGIVER. are now making their way into the spotlight. On TV, Will Arnett has portrayed a competent stay-at-home dad on NBC’s “Up expecting their third child in September. Like any stay-atAll Night,” a role that reflects the daily lives of thousands of home parent, Tim wonders what impact the third child will American men. Stay-at-home dads are here to stay. have on their lives. He’s concerned if he will be able to handle three children, how much the schedule will change, and how Do Dads Parent Differently? he will divide his attention fairly. Andrea reminded him that The growing media buzz around stay-at-home dads isn’t she would be home to help him for the first three months. without detractors. Critics of the at-home father suggest that This time with both parents certainly benefits children. It is moms are better at being full-time parents, and that men also a stark contrast to how much less time moms have help should be supporting their families financially. Are these from their partners, as paternity leave is typically two weeks. attitudes simply dated? According to United States Census statistics, roughly 16% of households consisted of the Tim still works as an actor and he and Andrea are active in traditional working husband and a stay-at-home wife in community theater. He also works two nights a week and 2011.

Saturdays at Barnes & Noble. His flexible schedule allows Tim to be home everyday for the children without completely For many families, it just makes sense for the higher removing himself from the workforce. In the future, we may earning spouse to continue to work. Traditionally, when dual see former stay-at-home dads returning to work. Some of income couples became single income families, mothers fathers wonder how these gaps on their resumes will affect would leave the workforce to take care of their children. Now, future employment, something returning moms have long with nearly 40% of women earning more than their experienced. husbands, this dynamic gets flipped on its side. Moms stayed home because it made financial sense. Why not dads?

Local dad Tim Kelly and his wife, Andrea, have a 5-year-old daughter, Grayson, and a 4-year-old son, Carter. They are

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While some feel that fathers lack parenting skills, others feel that fathers just parent differently, and that children can benefit from this difference. Dads are often associated with more physical activities like roughhousing and sports, or technology such as video games.

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amazing that you do this. I didn’t talk to my kids when they were growing up. “ While this provides unique perspective for children, it is challenging traditional family dynamics. Working mom Andrea recalls her childhood saying, “I always felt really special when I got to do something with my dad. I feel like now I get a little specialness too, because I am not here as often.”

Yet, Tim’s daily schedule isn’t so different from that of any stay-athome mom. He feeds his children, runs errands, does household chores, and plays with his children. He handles pickups, drop-offs, lunch, and naps like a pro. He stresses that dads are just as much parents as moms, saying, “I’m not babysitting, I’m just taking care of my kids.”

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For many stay-at-home dads, it’s difficult to set up play dates. Tim has said in the Staten Island community, it’s difficult for dads to approach moms in other families to coordinate playdates or to find other dads to plan get-togethers. To address this need, dads across the country are forming social groups. They have play dates and organize Dads Night Out. SAHD groups can be found on websites like Meetup.com or the National At-Home Dads Network (athomedad.org).

Moms in SAHD families often feel the pressure and constraints for traditional gender roles. Andrea Kelly shares she has felt judged at times, too. “No matter what your decision is, if you decided to stay home or decide to go back to work, you get judged.”

She adds that even her daughter is conscious of the fact that her peers are often picked up from school by their moms instead of dads.

Tim is pretty proud of his job. “It’s the best decision I ever made for myself. The best thing I could do with my life.”

By Jennifer Long, a Staten Island mom and freelance writer who is passionate about her family, fitness, fashion, and the Oxford comma.

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DEAR TEACHER

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Summer Do’s and Don’ts List for Parents Parents: Your goal is for your children to have a happy and healthy summer. We have some suggestions based on the fact that children in grades K-12 are gaining more weight and falling further behind in learning during the summer. You certainly don’t want this to happen to your children.

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

Do’s for a productive summer: • Bring your children up to grade level in every subject through your efforts or outside help.

• Have a daily family reading half hour where everyone gathers in one room and reads. No discussion is necessary. However, it can be fun if several family members read the same books and/or magazines and talk about them. For example, think of the different perspectives you and your children might have on articles in a magazine.

• Make summer a skill building time for such non-academic activities as sports, music, dance, cooking, knitting, photography and whatever else interests your children. Gaining skills in any of these areas will help children build confidence in their abilities.

This is especially important if your children are not academic super-stars.

• Have a variety of family-oriented activities such as weekend hikes or biking outings, game nights, picnics, visits to historical sights and colleges and attendance at sporting events and musical performances.

• Have daily household jobs for every child that contribute meaningfully to the running of the house.

Don’ts for a productive summer: • Let your children spend too much of their time on media entertainment, including TV, video games, Facebook and Twitter.

• Let your children avoid fairly vigorous daily physical activity.

• Let your children eat a steady diet of unhealthy foods.

Freezing on Tests Hurts Middle Schooler Question: My son will be in eighth grade next fall. He has always gotten good grades in math class. Unfortunately, he is a terrible test taker and froze up on the math placement test. He has been placed in the lowest or next-to-lowest math class and will not be allowed to take algebra. I don't think this is fair, as he did well in the pre-algebra class.

– Mad

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Answer: Freezing up on tests is going to cause your son a lot of trouble later on in high school. It has already denied him a place in the algebra class and landed him in a low math class. Being a terrible test taker could even cause him to have problems with

algebra if he is placed in that class. Before you push having him take algebra next year, consider whether it is likely that he can pass the algebra tests successfully so he can go onto geometry.

You need to help him get a handle on freezing up on tests. A study skills course at a learning center could be helpful. Also, you or a tutor could teach him such techniques as spacing out studying before a test, re-doing all problems in a lesson for better preparation, reading directions carefully, doing the simple questions first to build confidence, skimming the test to figure out how to pace himself and skipping questions he doesn't know. If his anxiety continues, he should ask the school counselor for help.

A test score should not be the only factor in deciding who should take algebra. Hopefully, this is not the case at your son's school. If school is still in session, contact his pre-algebra math teacher at once and ask the teacher if your child is truly ready for algebra. If the teacher thinks he is, ask that he or she intercede so your son can take algebra next year. If you can't contact the teacher, find out how to resolve this situation before the next school year begins.

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These are at-home activities. They're fun, but visiting places in your community can really widen your grandchildren's knowledge of the world. Why don't you select one day a week and call it "Adventure Day"? You can have a short adventure and end it with a picnic lunch. Try visits to a fire station; a factory; a museum; rides on trains, buses and boats; along with visits to parks with interesting attractions. Time at a swimming pool, bowling alley, or miniature golf can even teach new skills. You’ll find many more in this parenting magazine.

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

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as a new parent, and that I was struggling to get some perspective.

“I’ll tell you what,” he said. “Write a song about driving your daughter to her first day of college.”

A few weeks ago, I dug up that song and dusted it off, and I’ve been playing it since. I’m surprised how close it comes to the way I really feel. The bridge goes like this: Used to wonder when There would come an end To all your needing Now I wonder why That light is in your eyes And where it’s leading It seems like I’ve been preparing for this her entire life. In my head, it gets all mixed up with the other “firsts” we’ve been through together. Her first laugh.

First words. First sleepover. First home run. First boyfriend. Each new step was another step away from me.

I used to imagine I’d have all kinds of sage advice to give her when this day arrived. We’d sit down and have a heartto-heart. I’d tell her all the things I’ve learned about life, and love, and what’s really important. She’d hug me and promise to cherish my words forever.

Then there’d be a commercial break about other Hallmark movies, now available on DVD. Now that we’re finally here, the only thing I really want to tell her is that I trust her. She doesn’t need my advice anymore. She can do this.

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Someone once said that a parent’s job isn’t to get in with our kids and steer the boat. It’s to stand on the shoreline and wave, so they know where they came from. So they know how far they’ve sailed.

I’m waving, Maddie. Can you see me?

By Jeffrey Lee, a parent, writer and family doctor, who draws on twenty years’ experience to give a father’s perspective on the unexpected joys and challenges of parenthood.

JUNE 2013

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47

GROWING UP ONLINE

by Carolyn Jabs

It’s a rule nearly every parent breaks.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under two have no exposure to screens. That guideline was hard enough to follow when it applied to background TV and baby videos. Now that very young children are reaching for smartphones and tablets, most parents hand them over sooner or later.

Is Technology Rewiring Your Baby’s Brain?

Some experts argue that these screens are different because they are interactive. When a little child pokes the screen, something exciting happens. There’s no question that this kind of cause and effect is mesmerizing, but is it good for little brains? The honest answer is no one knows because there hasn’t been time to do the relevant research.

What scientists do know is that baby brains grow dramatically. At birth, each baby brain cell has about 2500 synapses or connections to other brain cells. Around age three, the typical brain cell has 15,000 connections because of the baby’s astonishing ability to learn. The AAP argues that there’s no reason to take chances with that development.

Even if there’s no evidence that screen time is bad for baby brains, there’s also no evidence that it does anything to promote healthy growth.

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In some ways, this mirrors the conversation about sugary foods.

Parents know candy and cookies aren’t necessary for growth. And, in large quantities, they displace other essential nutrients. Yet, sooner or later, most parents introduce kids to the pleasures of lollipops and birthday cake. Depending on how it’s done, the child may accept these foods as occasional treats or he may whine for candy every time he finds himself in a checkout aisle.

Until we have evidence that screen time is good for babies and toddlers, access to technology should be limited and thoughtfully supervised by parents. Since you can’t see what’s happening in your baby’s brain, you’ll need other indicators to be sure development is on track. Here are a few questions worth asking: Is your child excited to play with you? Experts agree that a deep connection with parents is crucial during the first two years of life. Early interactions in which children learn to make and break eye contact or to take turns making sounds become the foundation for emotional intelligence. Having face-to-face fun with your baby sets up a lifelong assumption that interacting with people is rewarding for its own sake.

Do people talk to your child—a lot? Research done in the 1990’s demonstrated that babies who hear around 2,000 words per hour do better in school and even have higher IQ. That’s because the language centers of the brain are especially absorbent during the first three years. Recorded words don’t make much of an impression. Language needs to be tailored to the child, responsive both to what she is doing

and her emotions. Parents, of course, aren’t the only ones who should be talking to babies. Be sure other caregivers are aware of how important it is to use language with children who seem like they are too young to understand.

Does your child enjoy three dimensional play? Babies and toddlers figure out the world by picking things up, chewing on them, poking, throwing, rolling and stacking them. Not only is this fun, but it gives your child the basis for concepts like round and flat, fuzzy and smooth. A touch screen may reference these ideas but it takes lots of real life experience to get them fixed firmly in the brain.

Healthy babies are always reaching and exploring. Most of they find should stimulate multiple senses.

Can your child detach from the screen? Some parents report that little ones become fixated on smartphones and tablets, whining for them when they could be doing other things and melting down when parents take them away. According to Michael Rich, director of Boston’s Center on Media and Child Health, this occurs because the visual stimuli of many apps gives children a regular squirt of dopamine, a brain chemical that creates sensations of pleasure. Too much of this can create cravings that babies—and sometimes older people--can’t resist.

Is your child able to settle down for quiet time and sleeping?

Because baby brains are growing so rapidly, they can easily become overstimulated. Being able to settle and sleep peacefully is a lifelong skill, and most parents intuitively help little children calm down by gentle rocking, singing and stroking. Research indicates that the light emitted by screens stimulates brain waves in ways that interfere with sleep, so screen time should never be part of a baby’s bedtime routine.

Can you focus on your child? No matter what you say, young children will mimic what you do. If you are tethered to your devices—checking e-mail during diaper changes, texting during playtime, talking on the phone during walks with your baby—your behavior will imprint on your child. More important, your distraction will keep you from playing what Uri Bronfenbrenner, cofounder of Head Start, called “ping pong” with your child: Your baby giggles and you repeat whatever you did to make her laugh. Your toddler says something that sounds like “Mama” and you respond with delight. As Bronfenbrenner famously put it, healthy development occurs “through the process of progressively more complex exchange between a child and somebody else— especially somebody who's crazy about that child."

If you can answer “yes” to all these questions, you can be confident that your baby’s brain is getting what it needs. Under those circumstances, handing over the smartphone to secure a moment of quiet isn’t any more harmful than offering a cookie for the same reason. Neither is likely to undermine healthy development for your baby, unless you turn it into a habit.

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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HOME GROWN

>>>

SOUTH SHORE ARTISTS PAINT THEIR WAY THROUGH DECADES OF HISTORY

ong ago, when Staten Island was still a sleepy little community of quiet streets and working farms, a rather well-established Island artist named Thea Wilbur Olsen and a few other artists decided to get together and paint. It was the summer of l945 and they settled on Wolf’s Pond as the perfect place to set up their easels.

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They met there every Tuesday until the cooler weather arrived. Thereafter, they found a home at the old Richmond Memorial Hospital.

They continued to meet there on Tuesdays and added a few more friends to their painting group, calling themselves “The South Shore Artists.”

Artist Helen Bilotti

Artist Domenick Denaro

46TH ANNUAL SOUTH SHORE ARTIST GROUP ART SHOW WILL BE HELD AT THE CONFERENCE HOUSE.

As the group expanded, they decided to hold their first art show. It opened at the Chevrolet Dealership on Main Street in Tottenville in l946. Any proceeds they made were donated to Richmond Memorial Hospital. They continued painting together over the years, finding various places to call home after the hospital site was no longer available to them. Their membership climbed to thirty-five and, just a few years ago, forty.

Today’s dedicated members, both men and women, are every bit as excited about painting as the original founders.

Many are professionally educated in the field of art while others are self-taught. Each brings his or her own style to the group. They represent a variety of ages and backgrounds.

They come together on Tuesdays as they have from the beginning, now making St. Alban’s Episcopal Church Hall in Eltingville their home to paint and discuss the creative process. They learn from each other and from visiting artists

who come to demonstrate new methods. The group exhibits in places like the Art Lab, the S.I. Zoo, the Seguine Mansion, and various Staten Island library branches. There is a rather long waiting list to get in and it is rare for a member to leave.

Most important, they are friends, just like the original women who started the South Shore Artists some 68 years ago.

On Saturday, June 1st, at Conference House Park, between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., their successors will hold the 46th Annual Conference House Art Exhibit. The event is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to stroll through the beautiful setting of one of Staten Island's most famous sites, while enjoying original artwork by artists from not only Staten Island, but other locales as well. Many mediums are represented: oil, watercolor, mixed media. Photography pieces will be on display, as well. There will also be raffles for original artwork available. For more information, call Susan at 917-903-6456 or email southshoreartists@gmail.com.

By Maureen Powers, a native Staten Islander, artist and teacher.

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ADVICE

>>>

GREAT GIFTS FOR GRADUATES

tudents work hard on homework and various other projects during the course of their academic career. For those about to graduate, some potentially lifechanging decisions await and students have the opportunity to graduate to a new stage in life.

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Many families celebrate graduation with a party for the guest of honor, who is presented with a variety of gifts during the festivities. Gifts are often chosen by considering the personality and interests of the graduate. If he or she has been voted most likely to travel or most likely to be a company CEO, there may be gifts tailor-made for those pursuits.

MAKE THE GRADUATE IN YOUR LIFE’S DAY WITH A THOUGHTFUL GIFT.

All-Star Athlete If your guy or girl took home more trophies and sportsrelated awards than you can count, a sporty gift may be just what is needed. Plan a day when you can take your graduate to a sporting event of his or her choosing. You may be able to take in a home game of a favorite team or fly to a playoff game. Sports enthusiasts who attend many games may enjoy receiving a ticket stub diary, where they can scrapbook their photos and memories of different games throughout the year.

Travel Bug Perhaps your graduate has a love for travel and plans on seeing the world before starting a job or furthering his or her academic career. A new set of luggage might be the right fit.

If not, consider a subscription to a travel magazine or some books about specific destinations he or she has admired or would like to one-day visit. Think about ordering a personalized passport cover and a traveler's journal for documenting all ports of call.

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Future CEO Some students just seem destined for corporate success.

Help pave the way with gifts that befit a CEO. Many mergers and acquisitions are made out on the golf course, so having the skills of the game is a necessity. Golf lessons with a PGA pro or a membership to a golf course are great places to start.

Students who want to make a good first impression can benefit from a personalized leather portfolio for keeping resumes at the ready. Business cards printed with contact information can be handed out at networking events and job fairs.

Financial Maven A student who excels in finance and has built a sizable nest egg may appreciate a gift of green. Purchase stock in his or her name, or open up a savings or credit account that can be used for school expenses. Monetary gifts never go out of style and could set a graduate on a course for success.

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Pouch Day Camp is accredited by the Boy Scouts of America and regularly inspected by the NYC Dept. of Health. Children are supervised by well-trained counselors and accredited program staff.

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Philanthropist If your student has been participating in a cause from as early as you can remember, a philanthropic gift could be a nice touch for graduation. Make a donation in his or her name to a charity of his or her choosing. If you prefer to spread good will together, schedule volunteer time at a community center, hospital or disaster relief organization or enroll in programs that can use volunteers.

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Career Person A graduate ready to begin his or her career may need a few resources to get started. A savvy business wardrobe can help make a good first impression. Gift cards to stores that carry professional wardrobes will benefit those grads who may not have the budget to stock their wardrobes with career essentials.

Purchasing a MetroCard or a gift toward commuting costs can be another way to offer a careerrelated gift.

Stress Relief Few graduates will scoff at the idea of relaxing before a new stage of their life sets in. There are several gift ideas that can help a graduate kick back and relax and wash away memories of stressful exams or school applications. A gift certificate to a spa center that offers facials and massages would prove a relaxing gift. Some graduates may unwind through exercise, so a new piece of exercise equipment or membership to a local gym would be thoughtful. Tickets to a concert or theater performance could be a relaxing and entertaining way to unwind after the hustle and bustle of graduation.

When gifting graduates, one can begin by looking at their interests or what items may help them start their new careers or academic pursuits.

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HELP FOR STATEN ISLANDERS

>>> MESSAGE

TO HURRICANE SANDY VICTIMS: Project Hope Counselors Will Come To You!

ore than seven months have passed since Hurricane Sandy battered Staten Island and many residents who were severely affected by the storm continue to experience both physical and emotional trauma. For these impacted Staten Island residents, it can help to have someone who understands and cares, to listen and talk through stressful emotions. It is important and comforting to know that Project Hope, in partnership with Staten Island Mental Health Society (SIMHS), provides free, confidential crisis counseling services to all Staten Island residents. Project Hope HELP IS AVAILABLE FOR THOSE STILL SUFFERING FROM THE EFFECTS OF HURRICANE SANDY. crisis counselors offer services at a time that works for residents Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and is a program of in a variety of locations including: schools, day care centers, the New York State Office of Mental Health. The SIMHS is one of faith-based organizations, community centers, places of five organizations on Staten Island that received funding to worship and in private homes. provide Project Hope services. Project Hospitality, The Jewish Board, Lutheran Family Health and Ohel Children’s Home and “We respond to calls for personal crisis counseling for all Family Sevices also participate in the Project Hope program, residents including children, in your home or any other place with each agency covering a different area of the Island. that is accessible for you,” said SIMHS Project Hope Coordinator Lutheran Family Health and Ohel Children’s Home and Family Michael Skinner. The Project Hope crisis counselors help Staten Services do not have a brick and mortar location, but are Island residents develop resilience, build empowerment skills, authorized to sent out crisis counselors to selected areas. learn stress management strategies and cope successfully with

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strong emotions after the trauma of the hurricane. “All Project Hope counseling sessions are anonymous” said Skinner, adding, “our crisis counselors do not label or diagnose people and no records or case files are kept.”

Project Hope, which launched right after the superstorm, is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), administered with the Substance Abuse and Mental

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Project Hope funding enabled the SIMHS to hire 44 carefully-trained individuals to provide post-hurricane crisis counseling to children, adults, families and groups. Additionally, Project Hope offers public education, assessments, referrals, and resource linkages for residents in the hard-hit coastal area from New Dorp Lane to Tottenville, as well as various other Island communities. Services in English, Spanish, and numerous

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Middle States Accredited Before & After Care Available

“Experiencing strong emotions is a normal reaction to the very unusual life challenges created by Hurricane Sandy,” said Skinner.“It goes without saying that those who suffered the loss of their homes and possessions are undergoing periods of deep sadness, hopelessness, and anger,” he said, adding, “But people who did not endure serious impacts from the storm can also experience reactions to the distress in their families and communities.”

According to Skinner the reactions can be emotional such as fear, anxiety, sadness, and helplessness, difficulty concentrating, or physical such as prolonged sleep disturbances, headaches, stomach or body aches, changes in eating habits, or increased alcohol or drug use. “Project Hope is a place for survivors to turn to seek support, and learn how to work through overwhelming responsibilities and reactions in order to reclaim their lives,” said Skinner. “Our Project Hope counselors help people and communities heal and move ahead.”

Staten Islanders who are feeling stress caused by the impact of the hurricane, or who are concerned about a neighbor, friend or relative, can connect to SIMHS Project Hope at 718-442-2225. Survivors can also call 1-800-LIFENET, a 24/7 confidential referral hotline network matching Hurricane Sandy survivors with a Project Hope provider agency in their community.

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Whether you call it a pacifier, a binky or a nuk – one thing is certain, it can be difficult to wean your toddler off of it. I’ve had six kids with another on the way, and I’ve learned a few tricks that help in the process of moving your child away from the

by Gary Greenberg & Jeannie Hayden • SRP $16.00 A survival guide for men entering fatherhood, with pacifier. one-of-a kind insights, tips and tricks, and no-nonsense Walk a While in Their Shoes: Simply taking away the pacifier advice for mastering the first year as a dad. without giving the situation the thought it deserves is not the right strategy. Take a moment to walk around in your child’s shoes. The pacifier is a comfort item; it brings security while they fall asleep and helps them soothe when something goes Babyhood wrong. An important thought for me was determining what

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Find a Suitable Big Kid “Pacifier:” In order to move beyond the pacifier, your child might need to replace it with a more suitable comfort item. Take your child to the store to pick out a new “pacifier” in the form of a stuffed animal, a doll, or a blanket. Whatever it may be, make sure it’s an item that they Dude, You’re Gonne Be a Dad!: can hold onto during times when they need soothing comfort.

How to Get (Both of You) Once you begin this transition, you can start to teach your child how to ultimately self soothe and not to be reliant upon any one Through the Next 9 Months object for comfort. It takes time to learn how to self soothe

by John Pfeiffer • SRP $13.95 Written by a father of three, this book will guide both mother though, so be patient with your child and take things one day at and father get through the nine months of pregnancy. a time.

Develop a New Routine: A lot of children rely on their pacifier when they’re crying or when they’re trying to go to sleep.

Developing a new routine can help phase out the pacifier by instilling new habits. You have to start small and be consistent in this. If your child starts crying, bend down to their level and ask them what’s wrong in a soothing tone. It often works if you hug or cradle your child for a few moments while singing them a song before transitioning them into another activity. At bedtime, give your child a stuffed animal or a small blanket instead of a pacifier. If you do this repeatedly, they won’t expect their pacifier any longer, but the transition can be a bit tricky.

Talk to Your Child: I firmly believe in talking openly with children. Keep them in the loop, so they know exactly what to expect. If you’re weaning a toddler off a pacifier, talking to them could be beneficial. Most toddlers reach a point where they believe they are “big kids,” and if you establish that big kids don’t use pacifiers, your child may be more inclined to help you through the process. By Daddy Nickell, founder of Daddyscrubs.com

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March 20, 2013 5 pounds, 15 ounces Parents: Paul and Trish

LOCAL OCCURANCE

>>>

CICADA SWARM 2013 Insect excitement swarms the media .... and Staten Island

raduation Day at Tottenville High School was almost perfect in 1996. The ceremony was outside on the school's sprawling football field, and we were all in our caps and gowns: girls in white, boys in purple.

The air was a bit warm and muggy, but overall it was a lovely spring day in June.

Everything seemed to be going well when all of a sudden a loud buzzing noise took over, making it hard to hear the speeches being broadcast through the PA system. Most of the graduatesmyself included- didn't quite know what it was, until one outspoken classmate reminded us, "It's the cicadas!"

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BROOD II CICADAS LIVE OUT THEIR 6-WEEK ADULT LIFE ABOVE GROUND EVERY 17 YEARS.

Before that day, I had never heard of cicadas. Were they dangerous? Were they parasitic? Do they sting? That summer I found out rather quickly that they were simply loud, abundant…and pretty much harmless. And now, 17 years later, as a member of the communications team at the Wildlife Conservation Society, I've learned more fascinating facts about these creepy crawlers than I ever thought possible on that sunny graduation day.

Cicadas are insects in the order Hemiptera. They live underground as nymphs, where they snack on the roots of trees and shrubs, but do no damage to the plants. They emerge every 17 years to live out their six-week adult life above ground. Billions – known as the Brood II cicadas – are invading Staten Island and the rest of the Northeast this year.

Because of this unique life cycle, they've got people curious. In my line of work, I’ve been receiving many requests from news reporters since the start of the year looking to talk to our animal and nature experts about why these critters do what they do.

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The news media has been doing an excellent job covering the upcoming cicada emergence. Unlike the 1996 emergence, there is a lot more information about cicadas readily available: Internet technology has improved, making it much more available to many more people; there are more options for 24-hour news channels; and publications have embraced the world of Web and social media.

It’s my job at WCS to connect our animal and conservation experts to these many news outlets in order to inform the public about news happening in the world of wildlife, including the upcoming mass emergence. For example, WCS entomologist Craig Gibbs recently appeared on "CBS News This Morning: Saturday Edition" to explain that the only thing Northeasterners can prepare for when it comes to cicadas is the sound they make—a mating call that can reach an impressive 90 decibels.

“It’ll be noisy. There’s no getting around the noise,” Craig said. “That’s just the males looking for females.”

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PROFESSIONAL AWARD-WINNING INSTRUCTORS

Dina Canepa, Director

GYMNASTIC SUMMER CAMP 4 Week program available in July and August Monday, Wednesday, Friday (12-Day Program) 10:00am-3:00pm Students will: Learn all aspects of Gymnastics, Learn the proper way to stretch and care for their bodies, Be conditioned, Learn styles of dance such as jazz to strengthen floor routines and Much More! $250.00 First Camper • $200.00 Additional Sibling $180.00 Students who were enrolled in Acro during 2012-2013 Season @ DSDS REGISTRATION DATES: Tuesday, July 2nd, 2013 4:00-7:00 • Thursday, July 11th, 4:00-7:00 Thursday, July 25th, 4:00-7:00 • Tuesday, August 6th, 2:00-7:00 Thursday, August 8th, 4:00-7:00 • Tuesday, August 13th, 2:00-7:00 Thursday, August 15th, 4:00-7:00 • Thursday, Sept 5th, 5:00-8:00 and Wednesday, September 11th, 5:00-8:00

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Call Now for FALL REGISTRATION! • Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, Musical Theatre, Acting Classes ~ ages 2-99 • Platinum AwardWinning Company • More Classes in More Styles • 3 Air-Conditioned Dance Rooms • Parent and Sibling Discounts • Ballet for All Ages • Recital at CSI Performing Arts Center

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SUMMER BRIDGE PROGRAM

SUMMER STIMULUS–REGISTRATION FEE WAIVED & FREE MATERIALS 6 week program–11/2 Hour Sessions Vocabulary, Reading, Writing & Mathematics Beginning the week of July 8th for Students Entering: Kindergarten • Tue • 12:00-1:30 4th Grade • Wed • 10:15-11:45 1st Grade • Tue • 10:15-11:45 5th Grade • Thur • 8:30-10:00 2nd Grade • Tue • 8:30-10:00 6th Grade • Thur • 10:15-11:45 3rd Grade • Wed • 8:30-10:00 7th Grade • Wed • 9:00-10:30

TACHS/SHSAT 20 week program–2 Hour Sessions Curriculum is designed to prepare students for admission into Catholic High School & Staten Island Tech.

Classes begin the 3rd week of June.

Introduction to High School Math 6 week program–11/2 Hour Sessions This introductory course in Integrated Algebra (9th Grade Math) begins in July.

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7th Grade begins July to October– 1st-6th Grade Begins September-October Taking Registration for November 2014 TACHS

Writing Workshops 6 Week Program11/2 Hour Sessions, Small Groups, Grades 3-6

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CICADAS: THINGS TO KNOW 1. They'll be loud: The males produce a mating call that can reach up to 90 decibels.

2. 1.5 million cicadas per acre are expected in Staten Island and the rest of the Northeast.

3. They'll be around for about six weeks.

4. Cicadas are a culinary delight for many animals, including birds, reptiles and cats.

5. There's nothing to worry about. There may be many of them, but cicadas are harmless.

During the interview, Craig also explained what these critters look like, in the unlikely event we humans don’t hear them, we’ll be able to spot them.

“The specific thing about these 17year cicadas is that are going to be a very dark colored body. They have really bright red eyes, and they also have bright red wing veins,” Craig reported.

Much is still unknown about cicadas, including why they keep to such a unique emergence schedule.

But that's partly what makes them so alluring. One thing media professionals, wildlife experts, and the general public can agree on is that they are certainly interesting. And if they do in fact get too loud this summer, earplugs are always an option. After all, their stay above ground is temporary, at least until the next 17 years.

By Barbara Russo, Manager of Communications at the Wildlife Conservation Society's Queens Zoo and New York Aquarium

JUNE 2013

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COVER STORY

Examine the Benefit of O P Author and clinical psychologist, Kay Redfield Jamison, writes, "Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity." It is through unstructured, open-ended creative play that children learn the ways of the world. While playing outside, children explore with all their senses, they witness new life, they create imaginary worlds and they negotiate with each other to create a playful environment.

a squirrel scurrying up a tree gives children the ability to learn and grow from others.

Outdoor play is a multi-sensory activity. While outdoors, children will see, hear, smell and touch things unavailable to them when they play inside. They use their brains in unique ways as they come to understand these new stimuli.

Playing outside promotes leadership skills. In an environment where children create the fun, natural leaders will arise. One child may excel at explaining how to play the game while another may enjoy setting up the physical challenge of an outdoor obstacle course. All types of leadership skills are needed and encouraged.

Playing outside brings together informal play and formal learning.

Children can incorporate concepts that have learned at school in a hands-on way while outdoors. For example, seeing and touching the roots of a tree will bring to life the lesson their teacher had taught about how plants get their nutrients.

Playing outdoors stimulates creativity. Robin Moore, an expert in the design of play and learning environments, says, "Natural spaces and materials stimulate children's limitless imagination and serve as the medium of inventiveness and creativity." Rocks, stones, and dirt present limitless opportunities for play that can be expressed differently every time a child steps outside.

Playing outdoors is open-ended. There is no instruction manual for outdoor play. Children make the rules and in doing so use their imagination, creativity, intelligence and negotiation skills in a unique way.

Playing in nature reduces anxiety. Time spent outside physiologically reduces anxiety. Children bring an open mind and a more relaxed outlook back inside when they are in more traditional learning environments.

Outdoor play increases attention span. Time spent in unstructured play outdoors is a natural attention-builder. Often, children who have difficulty with pen and paper tasks or sitting still for longer periods of times are significantly more successful after time spent outside.

Outdoor play is imaginative. Because there are no labels, no preconceived ideas, and no rules, children must create the world around them. In this type of play, children use their imagination in ways they don't when playing inside.

Being in nature develops respect for other living things. Children develop empathy, the ability to consider other people's feeling, by interacting with creatures in nature. Watching a tiny bug, a blue bird, or

Outdoor play promotes problem solving. As children navigate a world in which they make the rules, they must learn to understand what works and what doesn't, what line of thinking brings success and failure, how to know when to keep trying and when to stop.

Outdoor play widens vocabulary. While playing outdoors, children may see an acorn, a chipmunk, and cumulous clouds. As they encounter new things, their vocabulary will expand in ways it never could indoors.

Playing outside improves listening skills. As children negotiate the rules of an invented game, they must listen closely to one another, ask questions for clarification and attend to the details of explanations in ways they don't have to when playing familiar games.

Being in nature improves communication skills. Unclear about the rules in an invented game? Not sure how to climb the tree or create the fairy house? Children must learn to question and clarify for understanding while simultaneously making themselves understood.

Outdoor play encourages cooperative play. In a setting where there aren't clear winners and losers, children work together to meet a goal.

Perhaps they complete a self-made obstacle course or create a house for a chipmunk. Together they compromise and work together to meet a desired outcome.

Time in nature helps children to notice patterns. The natural world is full of patterns. The petals on flowers, the veins of a leaf, the bark on a tree are all patterns. Pattern building is a crucial early math skill.

Playing outdoors helps children to notice similarities and differences.

The ability to sort items and notice the similarities and differences in them is yet another skill crucial to mathematical success. Time outdoors affords many opportunities for sorting.

Time spent outdoors improves children's immune systems. Healthy children are stronger learners. As children spend more and more time outdoors, their immune systems improve decreasing time out of school for illness.

f

utdoor lay

Outdoor play increases children's physical activity level. Children who play outdoors are less likely to be obese and more likely to be active learners. Children who move and play when out of school are ready for the attention often needed for classroom learning.

Time spent outdoors increases persistence. Outdoor games often require persistence.

Children must try and try again if their experiment fails. If the branch doesn't reach all the way across the stream or the bark doesn't cover their fairy house, they must keep trying until they are successful.

Outdoor play is fun. Children who are happy are successful learners. Children are naturally happy when they moving, playing and creating outside. This joy opens them up for experimenting, learning and growing.

By Stacey Loscalzo, a freelance writer and mother of two girls living in Ridgewood, NJ. She and her girls have been getting outside to play for nearly a decade.

FATHER’S DAY

>>>

11 DO-IT-YOURSELF IDEAS FOR A FUN & FREE ‘BEST DAD EVER’ DAY

ather’s Day is the perfect time to tell your husband just how much he means to you. It’s the one day of the year that is just for dad and, with the right kind of planning, can be a day filled with memories to last a lifetime.

F

If money is an issue – no worries. These 11 simple tips won’t cost you a penny and the best part about them? They’re 100% homegrown and super easy. Here’s to a stress-free, money-free and child-friendly Father’s Day. 1. Breakfast in Bed. Raid your fridge and whip up your sweetie something good to eat on his special day. Bonus: have your kids deliver it to him.

GIVE DAD A SPECIAL DAY TO REMEMBER WITH PERSONALIZED GIFTS.

2. Handprint Cards. Grab the fingerpaints and watch your kids’ faces light up. Lay out a piece of construction paper and have them go to town on a card for dad. Fold the card in half and write a sweet note on the inside once the paint has dried.

3. Paperweight. Have your child collect pebbles the next time you’re out for a walk. Make this simple dough (see sidebar) and position pebbles to spell out ‘Dad Rocks.’

4. Sleep In. What’s better than sleeping in? Let your sweetie sleep in while you take care of things around the house. Take the kids outside to use their imagination while your hubby sleeps in peace and quiet.

5. Text a Picture. Does dad have to work on his special day?

No problem. Take a photo of your kids holding a sign that has their artwork on it. Send it to him in a text to let him know that you’re thinking of him.

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6. Things I Love About You. Make a list or better yet, write a love note to your husband that tells him exactly why you love him. Is it the way he tucks your son in at night? Or is it because he and your daughter look just alike? Sometimes the littlest reminders can mean the most to your partner in crime.

7. Love Notes. Grab the post-its and write a bunch of sweet things to stick on surfaces around the house where you know your husband will be. Does he shave every morning? Stick one to the bathroom mirror that says, “You’re the best father ever.”

Does he always put the same pair of slippers on? Stick a note inside that says, “I couldn’t imagine my life without you.”

8. Jam Out. Have your kids gather all of their instruments from around the house and work on a little jam session. Once you’ve got a beat down (or something close to it) call dad in the room and tell him you have a special song that you and the kids would like to play for him. This one is sure to get some good laughs!

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

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Call: 718.981.3623 Text: 917.853.ZION 505 Watchogue Rd. c/s Willowbrook Rd. www.zionlutheranpreschoolsi.com JUNE 2013

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ACADEMIC ADVANTAGE Advanced Test Prep & Tutoring Services

SUMMER ADVANTAGE Our philosophy,“children should enjoy learning... especially during summer vacation”

• Open to students entering grades 1-7 • SRA Reading Lab & Writing • Math Lab • Educational Games • Open to all HS students • Excellent Preparation for PSAT & SAT

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We’ll pro-rate price for any Regents class already in session

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• Advanced reading & mathematics • Test taking strategies & content review • Proven results...see our testimonials from past students!

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✬ Practice is limited to children, young adults and those with special needs. ✬ Child friendly atmosphere will make your child’s dental visit a pleasant experience. ✬ On staff with Staten Island University Hospital, with Operating room privileges for over 10 years. ✬ Digital radiography ✬ Laser Dentistry available

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2530 AMBOY ROAD • NEW DORP at Richmond Road & First Street

www.siparent.com

9. Clean the Car. If dad is on the go as much everyone else on the planet, he probably has a car that could use a little TLC. Grab the kids and make it a family affair. Let your son vacuum the car mats and let your daughter wipe down the windows. If you have a child that is too young to really ‘help,’ let her sit in the front seat (with the keys out) and let her pretend to ‘drive the wheel.’

Your kids will get a kick out of doing big kid things and your husband will enjoy his clean ride.

10. Poem. What says ‘I love you’ more than a hand written poem? Make it funny or serious…it’s up to you.

Whichever the way, your hubby will be sure to take it all in.

11. Scavenger Hunt. Kids LOVE to do scavenger hunts. Write out little notes about where to find this or that and have your kids help you hide them.

Finding them with dad will be almost as much fun as seeing his face when he finds a surprise at the last clue; a coupon for his favorite homemade dinner.

Don’t forget to enjoy the most important part of Father’s Day: Dad! Sometimes, the simplest gestures and most thoughtful gifts are actually the ones that cost nothing at all. Keep this list for this Father’s Day and the ones to come. Tailor it to your life and add ideas throughout the year.

By Meagan Ruffing, a freelance writer and mother of two. She loves finding new and creative ways to make each Father’s Day better than the last.

PAPERWEIGHT RECIPE • ¼ cup salt • ½ cup flour • ¼ cup water • Bowl • Cookie sheet • Tiny rocks or pebbles Mix first three ingredients together in bowl. Roll into a ball and then flatten out about ½ inch thick. Place pebbles in dough to spell out ‘Dad Rocks’ pressing firmly but not too hard. Bake at 250 degrees for 2-2 ½ hours. Let cool on cookie sheet.

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FAMILY NEEDS It’s In The Cards

Interested in Advertising?

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FATHER’S DAY

>>>

THE HIDDEN TRUTH OF PARENTING: KIDS NEED DADS

ick Hoyt was born a quadriplegic with cerebral palsy. His parents, Dick and Judy Hoyt, were told he would be a vegetable for life and should be institutionalized. But his dad refused to believe it. Dick noticed Rick's eyes followed him everywhere he went and determined to find a way to communicate with him. He solicited help from Tufts University, where a skilled group of engineers built Rick an interactive computer. Rick controlled the cursor by touching a switch with the side of his head, finally able to communicate with those around him.

R

CHILDREN GAIN SECURITY FROM A DAD WILLING TO MAKE TIME FOR THEM.

Rick immediately relayed his love for sports and at 15 years old, asked his dad to participate in a five-mile benefit run for a classmate paralyzed in an accident. Although not a distance runner, Dick agreed to join in the run and push Rick in his wheelchair. That day changed their lives. After the run Rick said, "Dad, when I'm running it feels like I'm not handicapped" (www.teamhoyt.com).

Inspired to offer Rick more opportunities for that feeling, Dick began training every day with a bag of cement in Rick's wheelchair while Rick was at school. The two began participating in marathons, triathlons and other grueling athletic events. They have now completed more than 1000 races together, including 247 triathlons and 70 marathons. Rick knows he has an incredible dad whom he refers to as "The Father of the Century."

Most dads don't have the same opportunity Dick Hoyt had with his son. But every dad has the chance to show love and

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acceptance to his children, giving of his time to provide nurturing and guidance.

Children gain security from a dad willing to make time for them. I love watching dads with their sons at the baseball fields playing catch, practicing batting or offering encouraging words. Athletics offer a great way for dads to be part of something their children enjoy while teaching sportsmanship, teamwork and respect for others in the process.

Children benefit from a dad who provides consistent love and discipline. Discipline teaches children self-control and right from wrong, while helping them feel secure and cared for. Boys, in particular, need more guidance from fathers due to their nature toward "out of bounds" behavior. Dr. James Dobson, author of Bringing up Boys, says "Boys are more likely to get off course when they are not guided and supervised carefully. ...When left to their own devices, they tend to drift toward the center divider or into the ditch, toward misbehavior or danger."

SUMMER GYMNASTICS CAMP AT Richmond Gymnastics

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Ages 3-17. Monday to Friday 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 Days a Week Full Time (9am-4pm) Part Time (9am-1pm) Ask About Our After Camp Program • Largest Competitive Team Program Levels 4 thru 10 • Tumbling Sessions Available • Special Group Rates • Cheer Groups Welcome • Fully Air-Conditioned Serving Staten Island Since 1976

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Children gain healthy standards from a dad with spiritual principles.

Studies show that children who actively engage in a community of faith increase their odds toward a happier, healthier and longer life, while significantly reducing the likelihood of life problems and risky behavior.

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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Gayla Grace is a freelance writer, wife, and mom to five children. She is thankful for the role her husband plays as their childrens' father.

Register by June 15 to Receive a FREE UNIFORM and a 15% DISCOUNT Call for info.

718.207.3613

Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace • Room G202 See Class Schedules on www.statenislandseido.com

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Our generation sees too many children reared without fathers. A high divorce rate, unbalanced career priorities, and prevailing addiction rates contribute to an absent father for many, emotionally and physically.

However, study after study reflects the impact of a child's well-being from the influence of his father.

It's not always possible to be an active dad on a daily basis, but it is possible to stay involved in your child's life in other ways. A dad's role is a high calling that not everyone gets to experience. But for those who do, it's a role to be honored and cherished, carried out with intentional purpose.

SUMMER PROGRAM

Seido Karate

Children need a dad who reflects a stable male role model. We've all heard the saying, "I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day."

Children mirror their parent's behavior and learn relationship skills and healthy social skills, including how to treat others, by watching them. Children benefit from a father who regularly shows them physical affection and treats his marriage partner with love and respect.

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>>>

PARENTING

TEACHING TABLE MANNERS TO TODDLERS

n my house, family mealtime is extremely important. And with mealtime comes the teaching of table manners. It’s certainly not always a formal affair in our home, but my wife and I think it’s important to teach our children how to act polite at the table.

I

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I’ve put together several helpful tips that will come in handy when you’re working towards teaching your children table manners.

Practice Together: One of the best ways to teach your child table manners is to practice all together. When you introduce a new rule or manner to your child, discuss it at the dinner table. You can then together put the manner into practice. Ask your child, “How do we chew with our mouths close?” Then together you can both take a bite and practice doing just that.

One Rule at a Time: It’s extremely important not to overload your child with too many rules. Only introduce one

rule at a time; if you want to work on eating with a fork, then save the “no elbows on the table” lesson for another day. Figure out what’s most important to you and your family and start there.

Make each rule fun and positive – learning table manners shouldn’t be a negative experience.

Make Posters: My boys and I have enjoyed making posters for different things in the past, and I think making posters for table manners is a great idea. Together, and with the help of glue, markers and glitter, you can make a poster for each table manner you discuss. It gives you a chance to interact together and turns etiquette into a playful activity while still being educational. You can hang each poster on the wall and go over them together daily.

Positive Rewards: As is the case when learning many new things, positive rewards can often make all the difference. Don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive, but rewarding your child for implementing proper table manners is perfectly fine. I suggest sharing a special dessert, having an extra play date or watching their favorite movie.

SICCC

State New York achers Te Certified

By Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 6, and founder of Daddyscrubs.com, where he offers his "5 cents" worth of advice to expectant and new parents on topics about parenting and the latest baby and kids gear, all from a Dad's perspective.

FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH Grades 1 to Grade 12

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The program will improve our students overall academic abilities, and utilize various strategies to make cooperative learning interesting and challenging.

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Bring on the Toons: Letting your child’s favorite cartoon help with the education of table manners is a great tool, too. Most all toddler television shows have produced an episode or two about manners. Do some research and find an educational show to watch with your child to help in solidifying these new ideas.

Teaching manners should be fun and engaging for kids and parents alike. So have fun out there. Happy Parenting!

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>>>

SUN SAFETY

SPF AND YOUR CHILDREN ne of the first things your child will ask about is going outside in the sun. Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced new regulations on labeling of sunscreens. These new guidelines establish which products are allowed to be labeled as “broad spectrum”, meaning they protect against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which can cause a sunburn and contribute to skin cancer and early skin aging. It is important for the entire family to use sunscreen, and there are multiple options available in the market that everyone can use. Kid friendly sunscreens may have the same ingredients as the adult ones. Sunscreens with the ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally recommended for children and people with sensitive skin, as these tend to be less irritating and not cause the stinging or burning that other sunscreens may cause.

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Sunscreens specifically marketed for children may or may not have these ingredients, so it is important to read the labels on the bottles. It is easy to feel a little overwhelmed and confused with the sunscreen options packing store shelves, especially when there is such a range of different sun protection factor (SPF) numbers. The higher the number, the more protection the sunscreen will provide, but once you get above SPF 50 there is not really a difference in protection results. The new guidelines from the FDA will require sunscreens with an SPF of 50 or higher to be labeled as “SPF 50+” because the FDA does not have adequate data to show that anything higher than SPF 50 really gives you better protection than SPF 50.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It is important to apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply it every two hours.

This is especially important after swimming

or sweating. The new FDA guidelines have also clarified the water resistance of sunscreens. The label should indicate if the sunscreen will be effective for 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating.

Sunscreen should be used as protection, not as an excuse to stay longer in the sun.

Don’t forget, you can get a sunburn even on cloudy days.

Some parents ask whether a child who is fair-skinned will get the same protection from an SPF 30 sunscreen as would a child with darker complexion. It is important to note that a fair-skinned person has less natural protection than a darker skinned person, so a fair-skinned person will need more "extra" protection from sunscreen. SPF 30 is a good middle point to start at, but for a child with very fair skin parents can choose a sunscreen with an SPF as high as 50. Remember, an SPF higher than 50 will not provide that much more protection. I would recommend a sunscreen with an SPF between 30 and 50 for a fair-skinned child.

Bottom line? Here a few basic tips to help keep your kids safe in the sun: --Use a water resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher --Check the label for broad-spectrum protection (UVA & UVB protection) --Take your sunscreen with you so you can reapply every two hours. One product can work for the entire family.

Sunscreen is not the only way to protect our skin from the sun. The sun rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; therefore this is the best time to avoid direct exposure. Wearing protective clothing such as long sleeve shirts, pants, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses will also help. While sun protective clothing is especially useful at the beach or pool, sunscreen still needs to be applied to exposed skin.

The incidence of skin cancer continues to increase, it is important to teach our children how to enjoy the outdoors in a safe and responsible manner.

By Dr. Esteban Fernandez Faith, Pediatric Dermatologist, Nationwide Children's Hospital JUNE 2013

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Myth: When a dog charges, there is nothing you can do.

Fact: When a dog charges you, it's trying to decide if you are friend, foe or prey. Their eyesight is poor so hats, sunglasses, and other objects you may push or carry can scare them.

Act like a friend and pretend you are not afraid. Stand facing the dog with relaxed body language, tap your thigh with your hand and use a highpitched voice for a friendly greeting like "good girl." Fake it if you are afraid.

Myth: Posting a "Beware of Dog" sign will protect you from liability if your dog injures someone on your property.

Fact: Dogs can only read body language. These signs make people react to your dog in a fearful manner, which is more likely to cause a dog to consider visitors prey and bite them.

Use No Trespassing and Dog At Play signs instead.

Myth: Only bad dogs owned by bad people bite.

ST. JOHN VILLA ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP July 1 thru August 9 • 9am-3:45pm • Ages 5-12

• 5 & 3 Day Programs Available (Early drop off and late pick up) • Sibling Discounts • 2 Swimming Pools (Lessons available)

• • • • •

Creative Arts and Crafts Mad Science Carnival Rides Talent Show Interactive Learning Programs

Information, application materials and rates on www.sjva.org or call Mary Ellen at 718.447.4150 x156 57 Cleveland Place • SI, NY10305

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Fact: Even responsible dog owners operate under the same false beliefs about human and canine behavior.

They are also encouraged to take a passive role concerning their dog.

Any dog can bite especially when it feels personally threatened, is exposed to prey behavior, or thinks that someone lower in rank threatens its resources, such as food, toys, bedding and the attention of its owner.

By Melissa Berryman, author of “People Training for Good Dogs.” Berryman holds an undergraduate degree in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Medicine and a master’s in Public Administration, and has worked with more than 10,000 dogs.

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>>> FATHER’S DAY

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Discount for families with more than 1 sibling We Offer: Progressive 4 Year Old Pre-K Program • Reading Readiness

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FLEXIBLE PROGRAM SCHEDULE MONDAY- FRIDAY Half & Full Days Available

REGISTER NOW FOR CAMP Open House Tues, June 18 9am-12 Noon

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THE MYTH OF THE PERFECT STEPPARENT n honor of Father's Day, I began reflecting on the role my husband Randy has played as a stepdad. Randy has been a stepparent to my two daughters for 17 years. He will be the first to tell you he has done a lot of things wrong.

But his stepdaughters love him dearly.

I

It hasn't always been that way.

My youngest daughter, Jodi, was almost three when we married and Jamie was five. Randy had a difficult time with Jamie from the beginning.

She didn't want another dad in her life and she made that clear to him.

He overheard a conversation between the two girls one night in the bathtub during our first year of marriage. "I hate him too, I can't believe Mom married him," Jamie told Jodi. There was little love, or even like, between Randy and the girls in the beginning.

During our second year of marriage, Randy left the house one evening and called from a nearby hotel. "I'm not coming home tonight. I'm not sure I'm coming home again. I can't cope with the ongoing conflict between me and you and the kids."

It was a tough season. Randy brought two children to the marriage also and attempting to blend our four children, ages 3-10, while learning how to stepparent and parent together proved harder than we anticipated. But neither of us wanted to endure another divorce. Randy and I began counseling that year to work through the bumps.

During her teen-age years, Jamie challenged us on every turn. If Randy punished her in the slightest, she threatened to call Child Protective Services. She ran away more times than I can remember (but thankfully never went far). After one particularly aggravating day with defiant behavior, Randy took Jamie's cell phone and threw it to the ground. As it busted into several pieces, Jamie began yelling at us both. The night didn't end well. And I wasn't sure the sun would come up the next day.

But it did. And Randy didn't give up on his stepparenting journey with Jamie.

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When she came into driving age, Randy wanted to teach her to drive. She tested every ounce of his patience. They would come in from a driving session hardly talking to one another--Jamie's anger brewing over. But the next day, they were at it again.

During Jamie’s high school years, the ongoing drama threw Randy into stress overdrive. His grumpiness overshadowed his joy at times. But he didn't quit supporting Jamie and the things that made her tick.

Do you have to be a perfect stepparent to have a meaningful relationship with your stepchildren? NO! Randy's stepdaughters, Jodi, now 20, and Jamie, now 22, love their imperfect stepdad.

Why? How did that happen?

Randy never quit. He got up when he fell down. He sought help when he needed answers. He cried. He prayed. He struggled. He fought. He apologized. He forgave. He smiled with gritted teeth. But he never quit.

Is it a cycle? Yes. You take one step forward and two steps backward. You celebrate a season of growth and then start a season of despair.You gain the insider status one day and feel like an outcast the next.

Does that mean you failed? No. Stepparenting is tough. Mistakes are made.

Misunderstandings happen. And variables outside our control influence stepfamily relationships. But there's new tomorrows. A fresh start to work through differences. Hope for harmony.

As a stepparent, you've been given an opportunity to influence a young child's life like no one else can. In an imperfect way.

Are you up for the challenge? I hope so.

Because, as my husband will tell you, the rewards to stepparenting are oftentimes at the end of the journey.

"Fall seven times, stand up eight." ~ Japanese Proverb Gayla Grace is a freelance writer, wife, mom and stepmom to five children who appreciates her husband's imperfect stepparenting efforts.

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Monsignor Farrell High School 2900 Amboy Road (Oakwood)

PARENT & CHILD TIME

By Ann Clinton

Liam and Philip were having a spirited time playing basketball in Liam’s yard. Liam’s dad came out and asked if he could join the two boys in a game.

S UMM ER 2013 DRI VERS EDU CATI ON For an application call Robert Besignano

718-987-2900 x219 or pick up applications at the school’s main office between 9:00-3:30 • Early morning and afternoon driving and lecture classes • New air-conditioned cars • Experienced, patient instructors COURSES START MONDAY, JULY 1 MUST BE 16 WHEN COURSE STARTS (please bring signed application & check made out to Msgr. Farrell H.S. Driver Ed to the Main Office)

REGISTRATION Now Through Monday, July 1, 2013 Applications can be picked up and dropped off at the Main Office between 8:30am-3:30pm

Philip responded quickly and said to his Uncle Ciaran, “Sure. We’ve only been playing a few minutes.” Then he laughed and said, “Here comes my dad. I’ll ask him if he wants to play basketball, too.”

FATHER’S DAY AND A BASKETBALL GAME

Liam looked at Philip and advised, “Phil, my dad is pretty good at basketball. I don’t know how good your dad is at basketball but since he is the tallest of the four of us, he might be able to get more baskets.”

Before Philip could respond, Liam called to Philip’s dad, “Uncle Stephen are you a good basketball player?”

“I don’t think so. Actually, it has been a long time since I played basketball.”

Liam’s smile lit up his whole face and he said, “Well, then you can play on Philip’s team and I’ll take my dad on my team.”

Philip looked at his cousin and said, “Aha, so you think you’ve got a better chance to get more baskets if you and your dad play as a team. Well, I have a suggestion.”

“What is your suggestion?” Liam asked as he watched his dad and uncle throw some practice shots at the basket.

“Since we are celebrating Father’s Day, why don’t we let the dads be on one team and you and I will be on the other team?” was Philip’s suggestion.

Liam thought for just a moment and replied, “I like your idea, Philip. Let’s ask our dads.”

“Dad,” Philip said walking to his dad who was just about to try for a basket.

His dad, the basketball swiveling in his hands, turned toward Philip and asked, “Are we going to play a game?”

Liam and his dad joined Philip and his dad.

“We have an idea,” Philip related as he looked at his dad and Liam and Uncle Ciaran.

Find out where you can go to see fireworks with our guide on page 28.

Available online at www.siparent.com/ fireworks.php

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“What do you say we have teams? The fathers on one team and the sons on the other,” Philip explained.

“I like the idea,” Liam said and continued “And since we are celebrating Father’s Day, we’ll let you win. Right, Philip?”

Philip looked at Liam, “Hmm, I kind of like to win. I know it’s Father’s Day but I already gave my dad a gift. I’d like to see if we could win, Liam.”

“Okay, Philip. Do you agree, dads? A real game.”

“Sure, Liam,” his dad answered. “Uncle Stephen and I will try real hard to beat you two young ones fair and square.”

“I agree,” Philip’s dad added and said, “Let’s play.”

And the two boys and the two dads did play. Sometimes, the boys’ team would be ahead and then the fathers would catch up. It was while the score was tied 5-5 (they had not been playing too long) that Liam’s mom called to tell them it was time to eat.

“Maybe after we eat we can finish the game. Is that a good idea?” Liam asked as they walked into the house.

“I’m okay leaving it a tie,” Philip answered as he wiped the perspiration off his face.

“I’m for watching a game on TV if there is one being played today.”

Philip’s dad agreed, “After a nice delicious meal, I think I’d like to relax.”

“When my dad relaxes, he falls asleep,” Liam offered.

“Do I really?” Liam’s dad asked and then continued before anyone could say anything, “I don’t recall that.”

“Dad, you’re asleep. How could you remember?”

In the dining room, already seated, in addition to Liam’s mom and Philip’s mom, were Aunt Ann, Erica and Monica and Philip’s brother Ryan.

Everyone said hello and started to eat. For a few seconds, there was no real conversation, only sounds like “delicious,” “really good,” “I’ll have another helping,” “how did you make this?,” and “this has to be the best meal I ever ate.”

Liam’s mom was happy with all the compliments on her cooking but she said, “Wait till you see what I made for dessert.”

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And, dessert was special. The Father’s Day cake was delightfully decorated and tasted delicious.

Conversation resumed as everyone was finishing dessert.

Monica, who was home after completing her first year at college, asked what everyone planned to do during summer vacation.

Philip answered first. “I’m going to swim, bike ride, play some games and not think of school or the tests we had this year.”

“I’m going to do all that but I have to think of tests because this is the year I’ll have to pass all those tests,” Liam said somewhat glumly.

Erica looked at her cousin and said, “Liam, I’m sure you will do just fine. You are smart.”

Monica and Ryan nodded in agreement.

Philip said, “I know how you feel and I’ll help you all I can.”

QUIZ

Liam looked at his cousins and said, “Thanks for your support. I’m happy to have such good cousins. Means a lot to me.”

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

What game were Liam and Philip playng?

Who were on each team?

What was the score?

Why was it a special occasion?

Who made the cake?”

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

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CONTEST WINNERS Hidden Cake: Karen Alvino Noodle & Boo Gift Set: Donna Hagan Fish Tail Bracelets by Survival Straps: Joe Dannecker Jeannette Schlemovitz Mary Canada IRIScan Mouse: John Marsh iDL45 Dual Charging Stereo: Eric Cabanas XP5240 Pump Espresso Machine: Adam Wankowicz Braven 650: Rimi Neziri TURO SKIN Starter Kit: Mohammad Sarker Antonella Lombardo Chrissy Catanzaro Jack O’Hanlon Antonio Garcia Anthony Musto Elizabeth Senka James Wilton Amy Bougades Michael Donzelli

SAINT TERESA SCHOOL CURRENTLY ENROLLING GRADES PRE-K 3 TO 7TH

AdvancED Accredited • Safe Environment Smartboards in Every Class State-of-the-Art Science & Computer Labs Early Morning Drop Off and After School Programs • Supportive, Dedicated Faculty • Friendly Clergy • Academic Excellence • Family Traditions Shared • Christian Values • Healthy Habits • Good Friends Made

718-448-9650 • 1632 Victory Blvd • www.saintteresaschool.com St. Teresa Soccer program open to all Staten Island children.

Contact Brian at 917-921-1517

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ONLINE EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAYS: Chuggington DVD: Mary Staalsen Marzena Ellis Desiree Braithwaite Veronica Martuscello Ruben Ayala My Friend Huggles Rubi Doll: Cindy Pernice Lori Bosco Wow Wow Wubbzy!

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FACEBOOK COVER KID & HIDDEN CAKE CONTESTS

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Flexible Flexible schedules schedules •• Age Age appropriate appropriate curriculum curriculum Half and Full Days available Half and Full Days available

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FREE UPK For children born in 2009. Extended hours available.

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AGES 2-6 • THEMED CURRICULUM: “LAUA,” “PAJAMA PARTY,” “BEACH PARTY,” AND MORE! OUTDOOR PLAY AREA

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Click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

Preschool / Daycare / UPK FOR CHILDREN AGES 2-6 • OPEN 7:00AM TO 6:30PM

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find the cake (pictured above) in this issue. Then log on to www.siparent.com, click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab to fill out the entry form. One winner is chosen each month.

Security Cameras Throughout the Facility.

Doors always locked.

No one enters without permission.

Check us out on www.siparent.com, Facebook and www.rhccny.com 718 494-7422 • 501 Richmond Hill Rd JUNE 2013

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HOLY CHILD P R ES C H O O L 71 8. 35 6. 51 59 4 7 4 7 A m b oy R o a d S I , N Y 10 3 12

Preschool 3 & 4 year olds Toddling Around 2 year olds

Register Now for September Classes Limited Seats Available

Parent & Me Call or E-mail holychildprek@gmail.com for more information

GIGI’S WORLD

by Giavanna and Gina Schrecker

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.

On French Fries & Growing up: Daddy’s Perspective Hello, readers! This is Big Frank, Gigi’s dad. I have been elected to write this issue’s column in honor of Father’s Day. Every month, you get my wife’s interpretation on being a mom to my amazing girls or Gigi’s take on her life at the moment; this month, it’s my turn.

Both of my girls are so special to me and I have developed truly unique relationships with each of them. Being a dad is something that’s hard to describe, especially when you’re a father to girls. From day one, it’s been a combination of giggles, barrettes, dolls, dresses, silly jokes, and nonstop surprises. Just when I get used to one stage, there’s a new one. And it’s not always easy for dear ol’ dad to adjust.

Despite being my oldest, for instance, Gigi will always be my little girl. She is also my friend, cheat-food eating partner, gym buddy, and fellow goofball.

I pretend to rule the house with an iron fist, but the truth is, all the girls – even the dog – take full advantage of my soft side. Gigi has taught her little sister the “puppy dog eyes” that make me surrender instantly. Even as I write this, she is dancing around me trying to capture my full attention.

The one thing that saddens me is that Gigi won’t stop growing up no matter how many times I tell her to. Her childish arguments and debates are now becoming more substantial and articulate. The little girl who sits next to me and steals my chicken wings or eats my last French fry is now adorned in green eye shadow and nail polish from her dress-up set.

Gigi is still my goofball buddy, of course, but our conversations are closer to adult than cartoon junkie. I am not prepared for a big girl yet; I may never be. I will keep my girls as young as possible for as long as I can. If that means spoiling them rotten, so be it!

This Father’s Day, when my wife and girls take me out for breakfast (one of our favorite things to do), I’ll order an omelette and share my French fries with Gigi and Jordanna. To me, that’s the perfect Father’s Day – doing something to mark the everyday little things that make them so special to me.

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And I’ll scold them jokingly as I always do to “Stop growing up!”

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JUNE IS:

FAMILY CALENDAR

Child Vision Awareness Month Great Outdoors Month International Men’s Month National Safety Month

IMPORTANT DATES: D-Day Anniversary - June 6 Belmont Stakes - June 8

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR

ONLINE CALENDAR?

Flag Day - June 14 Father's Day - June 16 First Day of Summer - June 21

LIBRARY HOURS & LOCATIONS

Visit www.siparent.com’s home page and click on the “More Events” button under the calendar icon.

NORTH SHORE PORT RICHMOND 75 Bennett Street • 718-442-0158 Mon 10-6 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 12-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

SOUTH SHORE DONGAN HILLS 1617 Richmond Road • 718-351-1444 Mon 12-7 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 12-7 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

SOUTH BEACH 21-25 Robin Road • 718-816-5834 Mon 11-6 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 11-6 • Thurs 12-7 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

GREAT KILLS 56 Giffords Lane • 718-984-6670 Mon 11-6 • Tues 12-7 • Wed 12-7 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

ST. GEORGE LIBRARY CENTER & CHILDREN’S ROOM/MEDIA 5 Central Avenue • 718-442-8560 Mon 8-8 • Tues 8-8 • Wed 8-8 • Thurs 8-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

HUGUENOT PARK 830 Huguenot Avenue • 718-984-4636 Mon 11-6 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 11-6 • Thurs 12-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

STAPLETON–CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS 132 Canal Street • 718-727-0427

NEW DORP 309 New Dorp Lane • 718-351-2977 Mon 10-6 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 12-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

TODT HILL-WESTERLEIGH 2550 Victory Boulevard • 718-494-1642 Sun 1-5 • Mon 10-6 • Tues 12-8 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 10-6 Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

RICHMONDTOWN 200 Clarke Avenue • 718-668-0413 Mon 12-8 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 10-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

WEST NEW BRIGHTON 976 Castleton Avenue • 718-442-1416 Mon 11-6 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 12-8 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

TOTTENVILLE 7430 Amboy Road • 718-984-0945 Mon 12-8 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 11-6 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

VIEW LIBRARY INFORMATION ONLINE, CLICK ON THE “RESOURCES” TAB

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Forest Garden Friends Blue Heron Park 718-619-5051 Noon-1:30pm • Ages 8+ • Free PLEASE NOTE: Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. We strongly suggest calling to confirm times, prices, ages, etc. before you attend.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Bees, Bees, Bees!

S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 12pm • All ages • Free w/admission Up4Art S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1,2&3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 Teen Advisory Group (TAG) New Dorp Library 718 351-2977 2:00-4:00 PM • 12-18 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 11am-1pm; 2-4pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 The Artist in Me S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-12:30pm • Ages 2-5 • $50/$30 Book Discussion Group Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 11am • Adults • Free

Zooborns Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission 46th Annual Conference House Art Exhibit The Conference House 917-903-6456 11am-5pm • All age St. George GreenMarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt Street 8am-2pm • All ages • Free admission

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

Up4Art S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1,2&3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Ecosystems-In the Wild & in the Backyard Blue Heron Park 718-619-5051 1:30-3pm • All ages • Free Natural Science Club: Pond Study Blue Heron Nature Club 718-967-3542 2-3:30pm • Ages 8-12 • Free Art by the Ferry-All Day Festival Around the Ferry Terminal 718-720-8849 12-8pm • All ages • Free

MONDAY, JUNE 3 Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

Memoir Writing Workshop St. George Library 718-442-8560 10am • Adults • Free

Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free

Kids & Kritters: Cicadas Blue Heron Park 917-751-0071 11am-12:30pm • Ages 5-7 w/parent • Free

Read Aloud Huguenot Childrens Room 718-984-6670 4pm • All Ages •

Krafty Kids: Cicada Craft Blue Heron Nature Center 917-751-0071 1-2pm • Ages 4-10 w/caregiver • Free

Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00-4:00 PM • 12-18 • Free

Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free Skype and Video Chatting and Open Lab St. George Library 718-442-8560 10am • Adults • Free

TUESDAY, JUNE 4

Tot's Time Plus S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5pm • $5 w/admission Summer Reading Kick Off Party Todt Hill – Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 3:30PM • All Ages • Free Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free Summer Reading Kickoff Party West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4pm • All ages • Free Knit & Crochet Club Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 11am • Adults • Free

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5 Mid-Week Bird Walk Buck's Hollow 718-727-1135 10am • All ages • Free

Clay Day S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w.admission Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Teen Club New Dorp Library 718 351-2977 2:00-4:00 PM • 12-18 • free Global Partners JR Play Todt Hill – Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 3:30PM • All Ages • free Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-12 • free Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free

SING FOR HOPE POP UP PIANO Saturday, June 1 Greenbelt Nature Center 10am-5pm All ages Free 718-351-3450 www.sigreenbelt.org This city-wide public art project places 88 pianos throughout the five boroughs for two weeks.

Whether you are an experienced piano player or are attempting to play for the first time, visit the Greenbelt Nature Center during hours of operation to tickle the ivories on a beautifully decorated piano.

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Baby Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Ages 0-2 • Free Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Open Lab St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Adults • Free • Register

THURSDAY, JUNE 6

Tot's Time Plus S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-442-1416 11am • Ages 1.5-3 • Free • Register Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Baby and Me Tottenville Library

718-984-0945 11:30am • Ages 0-18 mos w/caregiver • Free Summer Reading Kick Off/Presley and Melody Musical Performance!

South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3pm • All ages • Free A Summer Reading Kick-Off Celebration Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 3-18 • Free Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free Blogging for Beginners and Open Lab Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 5:30pm • Adults • Free

FRIDAY, JUNE 7

ShopRite Kidz Cook S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2,3&4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free • Register Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

SI Community Tennis Center At the College of Staten Island

COMMUNITY RESOURCES PRESCHOOL NYS Licensed Preschool Teachers

UNIVERSAL PRE-KINDERGARTEN FREE 1/2 day program available through NYC Board of Education

6 INDOOR

AIR CONDITIONED COURTS

FEE FOR SERVICE

• Full & half day program for ages 2-5 • Flexible Schedule & Extended Hours Available

JOAN P. HODUM EARLY LEARNING CENTER

6 OUTDOOR COURTS • Leagues/Random Courts • Junior Tennis Program (ages 4 & up • beginner-advanced) • Day ~ Evening ~ Weekends Available • Private or Group Instruction 718

982-3355 for info.

FREE NYS SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

CPR Certified Staff

• Diagnostic Evaluations • Full, Half Day & Integrated Classes • SEIT • Round-Trip Transportation

Year Round Progra ms

SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM JULY 1 TO AUGUST 9 In a secure & nurturing environment, our multi-sensory, language-based curriculum stimulates individual development & encourages parental involvement.

3651 Richmond Rd 718-568-3106

GIVE YOUR PRESCHOOLER A BETTER TOMORROW Our highly qualified, state certified therapists will provide thorough evaluations and expert service for your child.

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS PROVIDING SPECIAL PROGRAMS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN!

OUR P.L.A.C.E. SCHOOL School CALL FOR INFO ABOUT YOUR 3-5 YEAR OLD Our Place School was established in 1982 to serve Staten Island’s children with special needs • Licensed by the NYC Dept of Health, division of Daycare • Funded & Regulated by NYS Department of Education • Service provided at no cost to eligible children

Call 718.987.9400 for information or to arrange a meeting.

329 Norway Avenue • South Beach JUNE 2013

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Baby Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free The Sights and Sounds of Sunset Blue Heron Park 718-967-3542 6:30-8pm • All ages • Free Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 2:30pm • Adults • Free

ART BY THE FERRYALL DAY FESTIVAL

Doodlebug FunTime-Series 1 Blue Heron Park 718-227-8839 1pm • Ages 18 mos-4 yrs w/caregiver • Free

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

NatureFest 2013 Willowbrook Park 718-483-7105 11am-3pm • All ages • Free Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11am-1pm; 2-4pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 • Carnival & Science Spectacular S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1-4pm • All ages • $15/$12

Sunday, June 2

Kids & Kritters: Pond Life Blue Heron Park 917-751-0071 11am-12:30pm • Ages 5-7 w/parent • Free

The Ferry Terminal 12-8pm All ages Free 718-720-8849 www.sicreative.org

At the St. George Terminal Platform, the 6th Annual Arts Festival will be held by the Staten Island Creative Community. Music crafters, children's programs, painting, crafts, spoken word. Special performance 7-8: SIOutloud - "13 Ways to Look at a Blackbird.”

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Krafty Kids: Mystery Craft Blue Heron Nature Center 917-751-0071 1-2pm • Ages 4-10 w/caregiver • Free St. George Greenmarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt Street 8am-2pm • All ages • Free admission

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

Ecology Walk: The Great Cicado Walk!

Long Pond Park 718-483-7105 9-11am • All ages • Free

Freshwater Fishing/UPR Willowbrook Park 718-967-3542 11am • Ages 6+ • Free Freshwater Fishing Clove Lakes Park 718-967-3542 11am • Ages 6+ • Free Up4Art S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1,2&3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Walk on the Wild Side Blue Heron Park 718-356-9235 Noon-1:30pm • All ages • Free Explorers of the Wild: Turtles, Tortoises & Terrapins Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 2-3:30pm • Ages 6-10 • Free Conservation Celebration Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission

MONDAY, JUNE 10 Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

Read Aloud Huguenot Children’s Room 718 984-4636 4 pm • All Ages • Free Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718 351-2977 2:00-4:00 PM • 12-18 • free Movie Mondays Todt Hill – Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 11:30am and 3:30pm • 3-11 • Free

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Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free Open Lab - One on One Computer Help St. George Library 718-442-8560 10am • Adults • Free

TUESDAY, JUNE 11

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

Tot's Time Plus S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-1pm • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission

Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free

Night Creatures New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00 - 5:00 PM • All Ages • Free

Game Design!

South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 10+ • Free

THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF SUNSET

Friendship Bracelets Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 5-12 • Free

Friday, June 7 Blue Heron Park 6:30-8pm All ages Free 718-967-3542 www.preserve2.org/ blueheron The woods of Blue Heron Park are filled with our nocturnal neighbors. Owls, moths, bats and deer enjoy the quiet hours between sunset and morning. When the sun goes down they wake up and busy themselves about the park. Join Cliff Hagen as he explores the dark corners in search of denizens of the night.

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Yoga for the Young at Heart Blue Heron Park 718-356-0106 3-4:30pm • Seniors • Free Knit & Crochet Club Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 11am • Adults • Free

718-351-2977 2:00-4:00 PM • 12-18 • Free Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • 3-12 • free Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free Movies for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free Open Lab St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Adults • Free • Register

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12

THURSDAY, JUNE 13

Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8

Family Matinee And Snacks Huguenot Children’s Room 718-984-4636 3-5pm • All Ages • Free

Teen Club New Dorp Library

Craft Time Todt Hill – Westerleigh Library

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

Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

ACCEPTING REGISTRATION FOR: Summer Camp,Toddler, Nursery and Universal Pre-Kindergarten classes (children born in 2009)

Come tour our facility!

Meet the teacher's and see classes in session.

Quality l o PreScho at able Reason s Rate

Low Child to Teacher Ratio

Beautiful, Safety Surfaced Playground Easily Accessible • Plenty of Parking

ENRICHMENT CLASSES: Tue, Wed & Thurs • 3:15 - 4:15

SUMMER CAMP

June 24-July 19 Nurturing Pre-Schoolers for Over 30 Years! July 29-Aug 23 Register for 7 ~Discount to City Workers~ weeks & get the 8th week FREE! 144 BLOOMINGDALE RD. With coupon only. (off Richmond Pkwy- Pleasant Plains)

718-356-7795

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Expires 6/15/13.

SPECIALIZING IN CHILDREN AGES 3 & UP 3 Year Old Karate Tots 6-10 Year Olds Teen & Adult Classes D i sc i p l i n e C on f i d e n ce At t e n t i o n S p a n • Free Intro Class • Flexible Payment Plan • Beginner Classes Ages 3 & Up • Classes for Free Uniform W/Sign Up For Children & Adults Special Needs Children VISIT US ON THE WEB FOR A VIRTUAL TOUR WWW.AMERICANKARATEOFSTATENISLAND.COM

MMER SP EC SU I

2 Week Trial

L A

Licensed Experienced Teachers • Family-Like Atmosphere Licensed by the NYC Dept of Health Bureau of Day Care Open 6:30am-7:00pm Accommodating Working Parents Accepting Children Ages 2-5 for Our Toddler, Nursery & Pre-reading Skills Programs - P/T & F/T: 1 to 5 Days

AMERICAN KARATE OF STATEN ISLAND

2795 RICHMOND AVE • 718-761-7366 (In Best Buy Shopping Center by the SI Mall) (Call or walk in after 3pm)

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718-494-1642 4pm• Ages 4-11 • Free Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Baby and Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:30am • Ages 0-18 mos w/caregiver • Free Magic Show - Children's Summer Reading Program "Kick-Off" New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 4+ • Free

NATUREFEST 2013 Saturday, June 8

Willowbrook Park 11am-3pm All ages Free 718-483-7105

statenislandmuseum.org

Bigger and better than ever, join in for the Museum's annual environmental fair. Activities for children and adults including nature walks, information tables and arts and crafts.

Movies: Holes South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:30pm • All ages • Free

Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free

Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Open Lab - One on One Computer Help Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 5:30pm • Adults • Free

Children's Video Gaming West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free with admission Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Preschool Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 3-5 • Free Register Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Childrens Room 718 984-4636 10:30am • 3-5 • free End of School Craft New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register Preschool Story Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Ages 2-5 • Free

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Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free Introduction to Human Evolution Blue Heron Park 718-356-9235 7:30-9:30pm • Adults • Free Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 2:30pm • Adults • Free Doodlebug FunTime-2 Blue Heron Park 718-227-8839 1pm • Ages 18 mos-4yrs w/caregiver • Free Relay For Life of Staten Island Staten Island Mall 6pm-5am • All ages

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

Jr. Science Club: Catapults Staten Island Museum 718-727-1135 718-727-1135 • Ages 8-13 • $8/$5 Cicada Mania Continues Buck's Hollow 718-483-7110 10am • All ages • Free

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Basic Canoeing/UPR Willowbrook Park 718-967-3542 11am-2pm • Ages 8+ • Free Bees & Honey S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2pm • All ages • Free w/admission Up4Art S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1,2&3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 •

CONSERVATION CELEBRATION Sunday, June 9

Staten Island Zoo 12-3pm All ages Free w/admission 718-442-3100 statenislandzoo.org

It's a party for the planet.

The zoo will be crowded with all of Mother Nature's friends: environmental groups, recyclers, ocean defenders and all of our conservations buddies. Make a planting to take home, play games and enjoy our fair-like celebration of all the things that make our world so special. (Also featuring Staten Island's premiere jug band Wahoo Skiffle Crazies).

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Special Needs Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • All ages • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 11am-1pm; 2-4pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

North Ponds Hike With Mike Blue Heron Park 917-753-7155 10:30am-12:30pm • All ages • Free

MONDAY, JUNE 17 Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

Kid's Craft: Father's Day Craft South Beach Library 718-816-5834 11am • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register

Read Aloud Huguenot Childrens Room 718-984-4636 4pm • All Ages • Free

The Artist in Me S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-12:30pm • Ages 2-5 • $50/$30

Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00-4:00 PM • 12-18 • free

Monster Jam Path of Destruction MetLife Stadium 7pm • All ages • $15-$50

Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free

Family Fun Fest Blue Heron Park 718-967-3542 Noon-4pm • All ages • Free

Film Program West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 0-11 • Free

Memoir Writing Workshop St. George Library 718-442-8560 10am • Adults • Free

Advanced Email and Open Lab St. George Library 718-442-8560 10am • Adults • Free

ZooQuest!

Staten Island Zoo

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission St. George Greenmarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt Street 8am-2pm • All ages • Free admission

SUNDAY, JUNE 16

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

TUESDAY, JUNE 18

Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free

Specialized Care for YOUR Child

Phyllis G. Merlino, DDS Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Call Today

• Infants • Children • Adolescents • Special Needs • Sedation Dentistry

268 Todt Hill Road Corner of Westwood Ave Near Slosson Avenue

Time for a Check-Up

718.761.2090 www.DrMerlino.com

Child Friendly, State-of-the-Art, Modern Office

Big Bird’s Playhouse Early Childhood Development Program

Register Now for Pre-School Free Extended Hours Available Registration from 6:30am-6:30pm With Ad Meals & Snacks Included Daycare & Pre-School 3 Months to 5 Years Before and Afterschool Drop Off and Pick Up at P.S. 58, P.S. 60, P.S. 69 & P.S. 861 Trained in First Aid and CPR • Low Tuition (Breakfast and Lunch Included) Register Now For UFT, 1199, ACD & HRA Vouchers Children in Diapers Accepted Half Day UPK–Free 9 Fully Air-Conditioned Classrooms for children 4 Custom Built Play Grounds born in 2009.

Licensed Early Childhood Teachers & Staff Full Day Licensed by NYC Bureau of Daycare Available Family Owned & Operated Since 1991 for a Fee.

1859 Richmond Ave • 718-982-0550

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Game Design!

South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 10+ • Free Knit & Crochet Club Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 11am • Adults • Free

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19

Read Aloud Todt Hill – Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • 3-11 • Free

Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • 3-12 • free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Mid-Week Bird Walk Mount Loretto Unique Area 718-727-1135 10am • All ages • Free

Preschool Program New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11am • Ages 2.5-5 • Free • Register

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

Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free

RELAY FOR LIFE OF STATEN ISLAND Friday, June 14 Staten Island Mall 6pm-5am All ages relayforlife.org/ statenislandny

The journey to end cancer starts with a single step. The American Cancer Society invites you to take that step with us by joining the global Relay For Life movement. When you walk to end cancer at a Relay event, it's your opportunity to not only honor cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost, but also to raise awareness about what we can do to stay well from cancer and raise money to help fuel the world's largest walk to end cancer.

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Crafternoon Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free Open Lab St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Adults • Free • Register

THURSDAY, JUNE 20 Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Baby and Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:30am • Ages 0-18 mos w/caregiver • Free Coffee Talk Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:30am • Adults • Free Teen Wii Gaming Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free Toddler Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 11am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free Skype and Video Chatting and Open Lab Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 5:30pm • Adults • Free

FRIDAY, JUNE 21

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free with admission Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Multi-Level Jungle Gym • Rock Climbing Wall • Arcade Games Interactive Floor Games • Pretend Shops

OPEN PLAY BACK TO 7 DAYS! (different treat everyday) Sun-Thur 10-6 $7 • Fri 10-8 $10 Sat 10-8 $10 & Sun 10-6 $10 Closed on Mondays in July and August Call Ahead–We Close For Private Functions

PRIVATE SPECIAL NEEDS PARTIES First Sunday of every month. 10am-12pm Must call to reserve your spot.

WE ARE THE ONLY FACILITY OFFERING COMPLETE CUSTOM THEME PARTIES, DECORATIONS, FAVORS, ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMES BASED ON YOUR THEME

PARTY PACKAGES FOR EVERY BUDGET! Schedule a tour today and find out what’s new at kidzrock and why we are the #1 Children’s Party Center!

to You’re Invited JOIN US FOR OUR y rt a P ’s k c o zR Kid SUMMER MINI CAMP Showcase ONE WEEK IN JULY MON-FRI • ONE WEEK IN AUGUST MON-FRI AGES 4-10

Fun and educational themed camp with in house trips, free ice-cream Fridays & more. Limited seats available. Call for details.

Ninja Party

KIDZROCK

Cars Party

ES...

C U D O R T IN

! o G 2 Kidz-

Tr y these a dd-on’s: Characters , Face Painti ng and Cotton Ca ndy

The Kidzrock s t BRING THE ENaff will THEME PARTY TIRE TO YOU! Decor, Themed Games, Favors and any additional entertainment at your request.

CALL TODAY TO BOOK ONE OF OUR CUSTOM THEMES FOR YOUR NEXT HOUSE PARTY OR ANY OTHER PARTY VENUE...WE TRAVEL TO RESTAURANTS, HALLS AND OTHER FACILITIES!

$25 OFF YOUR NEXT KIDZ-2-GO CUSTOM THEME PARTY. EXPIRES 8/2013.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

Superhero Party

Disney Princess Party

718.966.5990 • 8 Johnson St • www.kidzrocksi.com Friend request us and look out for a special contest coming up soon!

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Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Ice Cream Party Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • All ages • Free The Sights and Sounds of Sunset Blue Heron Park 718-967-3542 6:30-8pm • All ages • Free

NORTH PONDS HIKE WITH MIKE Sunday, June 16 Blue Heron Park 10:30am-12:30pm All ages Free 917-753-7155 preserve2.org/ blueheron Intermediate to advanced hike.

Join Mike Shanley as we venture to a seldom explored area of Blue Heron Park, the North Pond Woods.

We will be making our way up to the north ponds area of Blue Heron Park, above Barclay Ave., as we search out nesting birds and other wildlife. This moderately difficult hike may include some bushwhacking off trails, so please dress appropriately. Meet at the nature center.

Please call to reserve your spot.

108www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free

SUNDAY, JUNE 23

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

MONDAY, JUNE 24

Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 2:30pm • Adults • Free

SATURDAY, JUNE 22

Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

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

Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free

Family Movies New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2pm • All ages • Free

Read Aloud Huguenot Childrens Room 718 984-4636 4pm • All Ages • Free

Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 11am-1pm; 2-4pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free

The Artist in Me S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-12::30pm • Ages 2-5 • $50/$30 SCORE Small Business Advice St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:15am • Adults • Free • Register Enrichment Day Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 Noon-3pm • All ages • Free w/admission St. George Greenmarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt Street 8am-2pm • All ages • Free admission

Open Lab - One on One Computer Help St. George Library 718-442-8560 10am • Adults • Free

TUESDAY, JUNE 25

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free Kid's Workshop: Egyptology!

South Beach Library 718-816-5834 2pm • Ages 7+ • Free • Register

N EW D ORP CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 259 Rose Ave & 10th St (New Dorp)

tion” ve Excellence in Academic and S “Achie piritual Educa

$100 OFF REGISTRATION FIRST TIME REGISTRANTS ONLY.

COME VISIT US!

CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO TOUR NDCA Nursery School Classes for 3 & 4 Year Olds Extended Day Care Hours Also Available Full Day Kindergarten Through 8th Grade Christian Performing Arts Program K-8th Grade Computer Classes After School Activities • Safe Environment Discounts for Siblings • Free Bus Service Operating Since 1974

718.351.4442

Home of the Staten Island Special Education Parent Center

Does Your Child Have A Disability or Special Health Care Needs?

YOU ARE NOT ALONE! “WE CARE, WE’VE BEEN THERE”

Parent to Parent is a support network and is the Staten Island Parent Resource Center for children with Special Education Needs, Developmental Disabilities, Behavioral Challenges and Special Health Care Needs.

Founded and directed by parents of children with special needs.

For More Information Call 718.494.4872 Fax: 718.494.4805 1050 Forest Hill Rd • SI, NY 10314 Email: siptp@aol.com

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Friendship Bracelets Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Yoga for the Young at Heart-Chair Yoga Blue Heron Nature Center 718-356-0106 3-4:30pm • Seniors • Free Knit & Crochet Club Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 11am • Adults • Free

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26

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

ANNUAL ISLAND-WIDE BUTTERFLY COUNT Saturday, June 29 Island-wide 8:30am All ages Free 718-483-7110 statenislandmuseum.org

Join the team to count butterflies across Staten Island. Bring binoculars, comfortable shoes and lunch. Meet in the West Parking Lot at Snug Harbor.

Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • 3-12 • free

Craft Time Todt Hill – Westerleight Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 4-11 • Free

Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free

Baby and Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:30am • Ages 0-18 mos w/caregiver • Free

Pajama Story Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 7pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

Movies: I Am Number Four South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:30pm • Ages 13+ • Free

Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free

Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free Open Lab St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Adults • Free • Register

THURSDAY, JUNE 27

Gianna Nicole's Heart of Hope Third Annual Gala El Caribe 347-291-1464 6:30pm • All ages • $125.00 Summer Reading Party Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4pm • All ages • Free Family Film Night And Snacks Huguenot Children’s Room 718-984-4636 5pm - 7pm • All Ages • Free

110www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

Open Lab - One on One Computer Help Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 5:30pm • Adults • Free

FRIDAY, JUNE 28

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free with admission Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Children’s Room 718-984-4636 10:30am • 3-5 • Free

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL

Start your child off on the right path!

Become a part of the Catholic school tradition.

“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 Pre K 4 Half Day: Mon, Wed & Fri • 8:30-11:00

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

JUNE 2013

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ELTINGVILLE LUTHERAN SCHOOL A Caring Christian Environment Pre-School 3 Year Old Thru Grade 8 FOR 50 YEARS WE HAVE BEEN: “Large enough to serve your child…

Small enough to know your child.”

Most students are accepted to their first choice high school

ENRICHMENTS INCLUDE: Smartboard Technology, Spanish, Robotics, Laptops, Art, Band, Soccer, CYO Sports, Drama Program & Extended Day Available Pre-School 3 & 4 year old Program 2-5 full or half days available Extended Day Available • Reasonable Rates

CALL FOR A TOUR

718-356-7811

300 Genesee Ave • SI, NY 10312 email: elselc@yahoo.com www.eltingvillelutheranschool.org

Eltingville Lutheran School admits students of any race, religion, national or ethnic origin.

Summer Camp

Offering Half Day Sessions for 8 Weeks Monday-Friday: 9am-12pm • 1pm-4pm First Session Begins Monday, June 24 • Ages 6-13

EXCITING THEMES • Mining & Crafting Based on the Video Game Minecraft • Super Hero Academy • Girl Friends Rock • Remote Mania • Expedition Top Secret • “We-Do” Junior Robotics

Register Online

by June 20th to Receive a FREE Bricks4Kidz® T-Shirt

Go to bricks4kidz.com/statenisland, scroll to the bottom and click on “Parents Enroll Here”

~No Registration Fee~ 322 New Dorp Lane (Rear Entrance Off Clawson Street) 347.534.7925

View our schedule and register online at

www.bricks4kidz.com/statenisland LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse these programs.

JUNE 2013

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FAMILY NEEDS Party Services

CHARACTER-A-CISE Boogie with your favorite costume character.

Children’s Party Craft Parties Entertainment for All Ages Call

718-984-5546 or 732-360-1616

MOUSE-A-CISE WORK OUT WITH MR. OR MRS. MOUSE Childrens Party Entertainment Set to Music

DJs, MCs, Vocalists, Dancers, Videographers, Photographers, Pro Light Shows, Intelligent Lights, Photo Booth, Live Animal Shows, Candy Carts, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Plasma TVs, Rides, Magicians, Clowns, Limousines, Karaoke, Costume Characters, Casino Night Tables, Fully Insured

$100 OFF With any DJ booking, cannot be combined.

YOUR ONE STOP DJ & ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY

718-984-5546

COSTUME CHARACTERS Full Line of Costume & Cartoon Characters to Enhance Your Child’s Party DJ/Costume characters packages available for 1st birthdays & christenings

partywithf2k.com 718.554.4780

Kids Dance Parties Call Sherry: 718-317-7439

PARTY TIME ENTERTAINMENT

Party With Us Now!

• Disc Jockeys • Video Taping • Karaoke • M/F Dancers • Party Servers • Dancing Gorillas • Caricaturist • Magicians • Singing Telegrams • Celebrity Look-a-Likes

• Costume Characters • Clowns • Puppet Show • Petting Zoo • Theme Parties • Double Dare Mini Circus • Dress Up Tea Parties • Carnival Games • Cotton Candy

• Candy Carts • Ice-Cream Sundae Bar • Sno-Cone Machines • Hot Dog Wagon • Candy Sticks • Craft Parties • Sand Art • Spin Art, T-Shirts & Pictures

• Stuffed Bears • Airbrushed Tattoos • Wax Hands • Candle Art • Rides • Moon Walks • Ball Crawl • Super Slide • Dunk Tank • Gyro • Train • Carousel

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114www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

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FAMILY NEEDS Party Services Photo Favors Created Live at Your Event!

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FUNBELIEVABLE PARTIES

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STATEN ISLAND HOT DOG

We Carry a Variety of Sabrett Hot Dogs and Push Carts, Cotton Candy, Jelly Apples and More!

Home, Office, Businesses, Retail & Wholesale ~HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE~ Food John T. 646-932-4412 Vendors John P. 347.444.9140 Welcome www.StatenIslandHotDog.com

116www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

Be part of the S.I. Parent Family of Advertisers and watch your business grow!

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Photography

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718.494.6402

Full Time DJ Service

Face Painting, Glitter Art Tattoos Sculpture Balloons, Temporary Tatoos, DJ’s, Entertainers, Karaoke, Rides, Spin Art, Sand Art, Candy Art, Arts & Crafts, Theme Parties, Stuff a Bear Parties, Candy Cart, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Snokones, Pretzels, Sundae Bar, Carnival Games, & More!

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If You’re Tired of the Same Children’s Parties, Try Something New & Fresh...

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Call Maria: 917.560.6550 JUNE 2013

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118www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

Birthday CluB

Join S.I. Parent Magazine’s BIRTHDAY CLUB! Log on to www.siparent.com and click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

June JUNE 1

Annie Seman Zachary Candelaria Paul S. Certo Justin Edward Brandon Michael Farley Tiffany Gralitzer Samuel Majekodunmi Adrianna Puzio Nethushi Samarakkodige Nicholas Tronolone Allison DePinto Alexa Myvett JUNE 2 Angela Rose Lotito Andrew S. Gordon Kayla Rose Perez Justin Gruen Madison Wolven Melanie J. Wilkerson Keirra Smith Jacqueline Ann Paz Brandon Przybyszewski Erica Selznick Rida Ahmed JUNE 3 Danielle M Profaci Brianna Hockaday Dale Taranto Kelly McBride Dana Wills Anthony Uriarte Samantha Jo Ferraro Bryan Hockaday Katherine Anne Ebrahim Cassandra Arena Wenyie Cho Briana Iacono Daniel Elkik Philip Tropeano Raine Skinner JUNE 4 Alyssa Simeone Paul DiGeorgio David Ramos Christopher Capuana Victoria DeLuccia Justin John Fisher Logan Wu Robert M. Glorioso Jr. Evan Saranga JUNE 5 Joseph Picone Wilson Martinez Ashley Bohnenberger Bianca Sarmiento Niyah Quiles John Paul Mocio Julie Mendez Abby Govanoan Ariel T. Cooper Deven Jensen Andrew Semmel Brianna Semmel Ashley Semmel Jamie Misiti Michael Macchiarola A.J Macchiarola

Anthony Nobles Joseph Mattaliano JUNE 6 Justine Fleschner Justina Saad Daniel Murray Robert Amantea Matthew Galletta Jarrett Lonczynski Sabrina Anise Nunez Martina Saad Jiael Williams Faith Archibald Arianna Trapani Jacqueline Bartel Emma Grace DePeppo JUNE 7 John Africano Brianna Reyes Salvatore Chinnici Raquel Noel Morales Kristen Ann Brennan Noah Boyle Alexandria Greco Christopher Hughes Kristen Aguilera Ashley Nieves Paul Paoli Brian Green Jessica Wise Giavanna Palencia JUNE 8 Sarah Ann Paul Christopher A. DeGroot Nicholas A. Trocchio Dylan Amantea Matthew Birnbach Justin Newcombe Bianca Santora Vincent Donato Sean Patrick Doyle Kimberly Gaugh Danielle Pikowski Kristiana Celine Seetahal Amber Ayudtud Dylan Neglia Devin Neglia JUNE 9 Michael Serrano Rodney L. Brice, Jr. Frank Anthony Bonavero Yuna Shaughnessy Victoria Pickett Jeffrey Capretta Alyssa Ann Giuffreida Peter Joshua Diaz Daniel Hunter Karp Alyssa Seetahal Derek Hirsch Patrick Bianco JUNE 10 Stephanie Figueroa Alexa Rose Razzore Thomas Carling Deanna Mazzone Carol Marie Santo Melanie Paterson

Morgan Young Jolene Chalken Camryn Allen Meleena Troia Jason Benjamin Ocasio Azhan Ahmed Georgie Bellos JUNE 11 Nestor Vidal Gabrielle Teresa Brown Carolyn Chisholm Katie Chisholm Joseph Bassolino Eric Giordano Stephan D. Quinn Edmund James Lowry III Daniel Green Michael Sally Ava Biase Ava McAlinden Kristine K. Lim JUNE 12 Ashley Moore Justin Yazici Matthew Robert Perkins Kenny Harvey Carlos A. Rios IV Kayla Villanueva Kayla Uccello Michael DiRago Theresa Marie Longobardi Gianna Tolento JUNE 13 Crystal Rose Klein Nicolette Ferrisi Jenna Cunningham Cecilia S. Alva Ashley Elizabeth Endall Christopher Vasquez Joseph Mann John Cavallo Daniel Ferlisi JUNE 14 John T. Kruse Erica O’Lenick Jocelyn Vidori Colon Amber Miller Matthew Colin Lach Michael A. Carroll Nicholas Jezina Azaria Astwood Sunique McKenzie John Tagliaferro, Jr. Lilli Tagliaferro JUNE 15 Michael Conley Robert James Alberino Sydnee Crecco Jed Touri Luis Alberto Soto Steven Michael Watson Rudi Moss Ben Moss Jasmine Pons Nicholas Ferretti Hailey Faith Weber Marcello Scalzo Brielle Louise Savarese

JUNE 16 Dana Carosella Joseph Laurie Alexandra M. Sheridan Rachel Kearns Sarah Jusckovic Julia Chisholm Michael Pasquale Crupi Stephen Ghiraldi Jack Walters Jayson Kiell Katherine Corso Gibson Ambrisio Emma Ferrer Gianna Warner Mark Krasnopolski Cora Perezic JUNE 17 Donna Jones Christopher T. Lach Vannessa Gutzeit Annabelle Szepietowski Anthony Kraker Christopher Armstrong Matthew Ricciardi Joseph Cacace Casey Monahan Rylee Delamasa Amanda Tortora JUNE 18 Alexa Nahas Brandon Dallas Beltran Kelly Mazza Lia Alessandra Scalici Carmine D’Angelo Gianna Pittari Deonna Wepy Andrea Cunza Joseph Masica Keira Bacci Daniel Espinoza Andrew Sorrentino Jonatan He Olivia Akemo JUNE 19 Michael DiPaolo Kaylee Chapman Jeanine Capuana Joseph Bulger, Jr. Kevin Beyar Michelle Takvorian Khamari Jahtell Thomas Kristine Montalvo Alyssa Ryan Victoria Ryan JUNE 20 Robert Radano Daniel Haber Timothy McAlpin Shannon Boller Shannon Gerard Chanel Crawford Steven McCabe Yasmine Hamdallah JUNE 21 Jessica Marie Fegeley Shararima Nichaals Christopher Liberti

Danielle Barbara Byrne Donald Tam Jeffrey Reichert Grady Williams Zachary DeMartinis Caylie McAree Nicolo Oliveira James Hiroki Quinn Anthony Ortiz Samuel Corso JUNE 22 Adrian Bagui Benedict Bagui James Hann Anthony Mark Reyes Brandon Basile Steven Carr Stefani Anne Fatta Brendan J. Mackey Amanda Rose Kaplan Kaitlin Rapa Marc Joseph Dolce Katelyn Wittek Emma Villiarola Athena Esposito Nicholas Burns Jon Lent Maria Genidy Charlotte Lopardo JUNE 23 Gianna D’Argenio Dana D’Argenio M.C. Madison Susan K. Jacobson Baby M.C. Madison Kevin Brian Cascone Rashad Omar Sienna Marino Samantha Scalzo Aiyah Williams Vincent Angelico Michael Granucci Ella Forman JUNE 24 Victoria Prevosti Matthew Prevosti Frankie Ferraiuolo Ariana Alvarado Tiffany Nieves William Ellison Theodora Tharwat Veronika Ann Rees Laura Maglio Page Nash Julianna Nash Jonathan Rice Mia Mangin JUNE 25 Valanti Demetriades Timmy Demetriades Jessie Ruggiero Dayna Desando Kristy Lynn Cappiello Syralinda B. Kamara Marie Larke Santino Fruscione Joey Sala Dmitriy Zolotareva Valentina Padin Peyton Ann Schwartz

Yusef Jubran JUNE 26 Robert Edward Guash Joseph Lane Louis Gallotta Brittany Marie Bonfiglio Moises E. Hernandez Quinn L. Redmond Nicole O’Rourke Kayla Dean Madridejos Katelyn Mauer Nia Meyers Jada Renee Thompson Julissa Byrnes JUNE 27 Lindsey Odessa Gregory J. Patti Alexander Horace Birch Sarah N. Keddy Michael Tuccillo Yvonne Pagan Jose L. Acevedo Victoria Zeh Kyrolos Napiluon Salvatore Sereno Austyn Reagan JUNE 28 Vincent Tesoriero Mark Mohr Sarah Weiss Samantha Benedetto Eric Rodgers Lilyanna Jay Nieva Eric Louden Lindsey Waldman MIchael Cardinale Joal Booker Derek Sanchez Sameer Auluck Danielle Russello Avery Carberry JUNE 29 Justin Foley, Jr. Alessandra DeMeo Michael Mandel Michael Joseph Loforte Langston R. Mickens Jr. Evelyn Garcia Gregory Pagliarulo Juliet Masica Andrew Shostak Madison Nicole Torretta Pasquale Russo Joseph Barbieri Lucianna Plantamura JUNE 30 Victoria Rose DePrimo Rocco Miraglia Kellyanne Turturro Matthew Wilhelmsen John McClenin Mikelle Boone Michael A. Hoffman Michael Barone Brandon Nudelman Katie Thomas Diego Vazquez-Valle Owen Thomas Jordan Savarese

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.

FAMILY NEEDS Classifieds Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc.

SIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES CHILDREN AGES 6-12

6 WEEKS–12 YEARS • EARLY PRE-SCHOOL CURRICULUM OPEN 6AM-6PM (EXTENDED HOURS AVAILABLE)

718-954-4108

Small group setting

All ls materia d e id v pro

• Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper • Over Nights & Weekends • Hablamos Espanol • Summer Camp & Recreational Activities • NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted

Fridays 11am-12:30pm in July & Aug

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com 4 LOCATIONS LOCATED OFF FOREST AVE, NEAR PS 22

Research has proven that learning sign language at an early age improves vocabulary, memory & develops learning skills.

KAREN L. GOLDMAN, MA, LMHC-BC PSYCHOTHERAPIST & BEREAVEMENT SPECIALIST

By Appointment Only • 1076 Forest Ave 347-850-2322 karengoldmansitherapy.com kl.goldman@yahoo.com NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor

347.934.9742 www.comesignwithmeSI.com statenislandasl@gmail.com

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

SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY

“Help Bring Your Child’s Education to the Next Level”

ADHD, Aphasia, CVA, Parkinson’s, PDD, Alzheimers, Stuttering, TBI, ABA, Autism, Language Deficit

ADVANCED TUTORING All Grades & Subjects K-12

PRECARE, SLP, PC

Pediatric, Toddlers, Teens, Adults & Geriatrics Computerized Clinical Equipment CPSE & RSA • Most Insurances Accepted

718.259.4001

R. Gurevich MA, CCC-SLP www.slpmd.com

NYS CERTIFIED TEACHERS READY TO WORK WITH YOUR CHILD

C: 718-755-3025

Certified Private Tutor DYSLEXIC and NON-DYSLEXIC Is your child struggling with reading, spelling, writing or comprehension?

WILSON READING PROGRAM MULTI-SENSORY APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM METHODOLOGY

Carol 347-215-2417 crlvsky@msn.com

Interested in Advertising?

Call Today! 718.761.4800 x139 Be part of the S.I. Parent Family of Advertisers & watch your business grow!

25 years of PROVEN results!

120www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

JUNE 2013

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FAMILY NEEDS Professional Directory

DIVORCE BANKRUPTCY

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.

Hour Phone Service

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

ATTORNEY

CAN BRING YOU A BRIGHTER FUTURE—GET OUT OF DEBT TODAY!

KEVIN B. ZAZZERA 718.987.2700 www.yourstatenislandbankruptcyattorney.com

182 Rose Avenue We are a debt relief agency helping people file for bankruptcy

Call for a FREE Consultation AUDIOLOGY

Adam B. Cohen, Esq.

Divorce Attorney

AUDIOLOGY ISLAND PROVIDES:

~Affordable Rates~ ORTHODONTICS

ORTHODONTICS

718.948.2102 4060 Amboy Road in Great Kills

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST, P.C. Dr. Michael Donato, Jr. Let Dr. Donato and his staff treat you to a quality orthodontic experience in a warm, caring & attentive setting.

Children • Adults • Invisalign™

(718)987-7688 199 Clarke Avenue Richmondtown

www.straightteeth.net PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY

EVALUATIONS INDIVIDUAL THERAPY SESSIONS GROUP MOTOR CLASSES MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAM Most Insurance Accepted Most Major Credit Cards Accepted

Specialist in Orthodontics

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

(718) 967-5213

Member American Association of Orthodontists

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

• Special Needs Trusts • Guardianships • Parents’ Wills Call

JOHNSON & LANGWORTHY, P.C. Attorneys at Law

718.442.7004 NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

KAREN L. GOLDMAN

THE MEMORY AND ATTENTION CLINIC

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

1076 Forest Ave • S.I. 347-850-2322

Erik Moore, PhD, Director Ages 3 & Up

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

718-876-0848 2291 Victory Blvd

By Appointment • Day & Evening Hours

(Evening & weekend appointments avail.)

Out of network & sliding scale plans avail.

PEDIATRIC DOCTOR

PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY

DR. RALPH K. MESSO, JR. FAAP, FACOP, FACP

LEAPS AND BOUNDS, PT

Board Certified Internal Medicine Board Certified Pediatrics

Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D.

Special Needs Children Need Special Plans for

COUNSELING SERVICES

MA, LMHC-BC

148 New Dorp Ln, 2nd Floor 718-980-0188 info@audiologyisland.com • 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

~Free Initial Consultation~

ATTORNEY

ATTORNEY

ATTORNEY

Walk-In Care For All Ages Most Insurances Accepted No Appointment Necessary Minimal Wait • 7 Days a Week Mon-Fri 5-9pm Sat & Sun 12-4pm

718.966.5556 www.drmesso.com 4143 Richmond Ave PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Insurance based pediatric physical therapy office where your child will receive the highest quality of care on a one on one basis 2460 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10314

718-477-1911

LeapsandBoundspt.net PSYCHOTHERAPIST

DIANE MILIO, L.C.S.W.

Kim Williams-Jenkins

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

LCSW-R, MSEd, CRC, CASAC

Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families

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

Over 25 Years Experience Most Insurance Accepted Evening & Saturday Appointments Available

718.317.7030 3710 Richmond Ave

718.317.5782

2291 Victory Blvd • 10314

www.starspediatrictherapy.com

47 Lucy Loop • SI, NY 10312

917-613-4009

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

GEORGE TORRES & ASSOCIATES, LLC

CLAIRE GUTTSMAN M.A., C.C.C. - SLP 1076 FOREST AVE. (corner of Manor Rd.)

Licensed Psychotherapists • Evidence Based Treatments for Anxiety, Bereavement, Depression, Social/Peer Conflicts, Trauma (PTSD) • EMDR Therapy • Individual, Couples & Family Therapy • Play Therapy for Children • Bilingual • All Ages • Support Group/Anti Bullying Prevention & Education for Children & Teens Free phone consultation 347.782.9065

1082 Victory Blvd

Most Insurances Accepted

718-447-5501 Certified professional, providing quality evaluations and treatment of adults and children for over 35 years.

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

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

M.A., C.C.C.-SLP

NYS LICENSED SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

CALL US AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE!

Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults

• ASHA Certified • New South Shore Location: 465 Belfield Ave • Annadale Town North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave

718-815-6024

718-761-4800 x139

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY ASSOCIATES OF STATEN ISLAND, PLLC PROMPT TRAINED THERAPISTS SOS FEEDING APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM & WILSON TRAINED THERAPISTS EAROBICS

Individualized and Customized: Language Enhancement Programs, Auditory Training Programs, Fluency Enhancement Programs, Oral-Sensory-Motor Plans, Voice Treatment Programs, Accent Reduction Programs, Feeding Treatment Plans, Pediatric & Adult Clients We welcome NYC DOE clients, and we are now an associate of The Perfect Playground for all CSE cases.

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR

718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308 SPEECH PATHOLOGY 718-967-0359 • 3767 Richmond Ave www.brightstartspeech.com brightstart@si.rr.com

• Private practice with energetic & talented Speech Language Pathologists • Extensive experience • Full range of services (diagnostics & evaluations) • Occupational Therapy Now • NYS & ASHA Certified Accepting CPSE & RSA • Multi-Lingual Therapists

Sandra Mazzucco

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

FIND THE FUN IN FEEDING is a twelve-week feeding program, utilizing the SOS Approach to Feeding. It utilizes a non-invasive developmental model, that teaches your child how to interact, tolerate and eat a variety of foods in a non-stressful, supportive environment. Parent/caregiver training is a key part of this program to foster success at home.

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.

Speech & Language Pathology, P.C.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Offering Homecare

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS. FREE CONSULTATIONS.

CALL US AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE!

NEW LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR LOCATION 718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

SPEECH & OT

SPEECH, OT/PT

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

EVALUATION & TREATMENT OF PEDIATRIC SPEECH & LANGUAGE, FINE & GROSS MOTOR DELAYS & DISORDERS • Department of Education CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation • Most Insurance Accepted • Homecare and School Services Offered

718-608-1508

southshorespeechtherapy.com 520B Bloomingdale Rd SI, NY 10309 415 Route 34, Suite 218 Colts Neck, N.J. 07722

NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists, Occupational & Physical Therapists Evaluation and Treatment of Pediatric Speech, Language, Feeding, Oral, Fine & Gross Motor Disorders, P.R.O.M.P.T., Russian Bilingual Services, State of the Art Sensory Gym Dept of Ed Provider (CPSE & RSA) Top of Tertiary Tier Designation

718.605.4301 3767 Hylan Blvd (Great Kills) Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director

www.qualitycarespeech.com

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Speech Language Pathology PC • Diagnosis & treatment of infants, toddlers, adults • Autism, learning and communication disabilities • Articulation, impaired language, stuttering or lisps • All major credit cards and insurances

PreCare, SLP, PC • Radmila Gurevich, MA, CCC-SLP

718-761-4800 x139

WWW.SLPMD.COM

718.259.4001 • 1829 Richmond Rd

124www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

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

126www.siparent.com JUNE 2013

We are renovatin g the North Ga nnon Ave location to ser vice th better e childre n and fam ilies of Staten Is land

Gingerbread Pre-K Summer Program Registration I s Going On Now !

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.

• Two 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 JUNE 2013

www.siparent.com

127

PRST STD

SOLUTIONS TO EVERYDAY PARENTING

1200 South Avenue • Suite 202 Staten Island, New York 10314

www.siparent.com

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