Staten Island Parent March 2020

March 2020

siparent.com

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

10

“My Child Watched Inappropriate Videos”

Questions to Ask a Camp Director

+ 2020 CAMP

>>Finding my

MOM CREW

& SUMMER PROGRAM DIRECTORY

SUNDAY

MARCH

THE COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND

29 FREE

March cover.indd 1

2800 VICTORY BOULEVARD

SIPARENT.COM/SIPD Music, Face Painting, Reptile Show & More!

2/26/20 11:41 AM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Go to pages 32 and 33 for more details on this event!

2 March 2020 • siparent.com

SI Parent Day.indd 1

2/25/20 10:06 AM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 3

master curry.indd 1

2/24/20 3:18 PM

Advertiser Index page 63

SEE YOUR CHILD ON OUR COVER! Submit your photo on siparent.com/childphoto

INSIDE MARCH 2020

Jackson Summa, 4 years old

16

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht EDITOR Jeannine Cintron PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Michelle Yannaco TRAFFIC DIRECTOR Heather Gambaro ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen, Janine Mulé Jodi Fatto INFORMATION Advertising: 718.494.1932 Questions: info@siparent.com KEEP IN TOUCH

10 Questions to Ask a Camp Director

What to ask when choosing a summer camp for your child.

ILPM siparent.com facebook.com/siparent instagram.com/statenisland_parent twitter.com/siparent pinterest.com/siparent

54

Finding My Mom Crew

Motherhood shows you who your friends really are.

56

I Found My Child Watching Porn

When inappropriate content falls into the wrong hands.

raising kids 18 20 22 22 28 52 60 62

23-TIME AWARD WINNING MAGAZINE

Member of the Parenting Media Association (PMA)

2020 Camp and Summer Program Directory Choosing a Sports League Talking to Kids About Vaping STEM Activities for All Ages Dear Teacher: Real Advice from Real Educators Professional Services Guide 10 Ways to Make Mornings Easier Tips for a Successful Pet Adoption

fun stuff

events & news

30 St. Patrick’s Day Recipe Ideas 48 Birthday Club

32 S.I. Parent Day 34 Family Calendar

Staten Island Parent is published 12 times a year. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The publisher of this magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or writers.

A DAVLER MEDIA GROUP BUSINESS DAVID L. MILLER CEO

4 March 2020 • siparent.com

• TOC.indd 1

2/26/20 8:55 AM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 5

Athletic Edge.indd 1

2/24/20 3:18 PM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

6 March 2020 • siparent.com

Vanguard Dermatology.indd 1

2/24/20 3:19 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 7

SI Day Camp.indd 1

2/24/20 3:19 PM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

8 March 2020 • siparent.com

Zion.indd 1

2/24/20 3:19 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 9

RCDC.indd 1

2/24/20 3:20 PM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

10 March 2020 • siparent.com

Little LuBella.indd 1

2/24/20 3:20 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 11

Young Peoples Day Camp.indd 1

2/24/20 3:21 PM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

12 March 2020 • siparent.com

Children's Harbor Montessori.indd 1

2/24/20 3:22 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 13

YMCA.indd 1

2/24/20 3:22 PM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

14 March 2020 • siparent.com

Staten Island Academy.indd 1

2/24/20 3:23 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 15

Rabs.indd 1

2/24/20 3:23 PM

raising kids

M

any parents select a camp based on a friend or

BY JESS MICHAELS

Jess Michaels is the director of communications for the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. She believes every child should have a summer camp experience.

relative’s rave reviews. But choosing your child’s summer experience based on hearsay or person-

al anecdotes is often problematic, according to the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. Instead, it’s important to thoroughly research a camp in order to determine if it’s a good fit for your kid. The ACA suggests making an appointment with the camp’s director and asking the following 10 questions.

16 March 2020 • siparent.com

Questions to Ask a Camp Director.indd 2

2/24/20 3:26 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM What is the camp’s mission or philosophy?

Each camp has its own mission or philosophy. Make sure this particular camp’s mission matches your own family’s values.

What is your background and experience?

Ask about the camp director—his experience, years at the camp, previous jobs. You want to make sure you find a commonality here.

When you send your child to camp, you are forming a partnership with the director to ensure your child has a successful camp experience.

There are hundreds of day camps and sleepaway camps in the New York area, which can make determining the just-right spot for your child overwhelming. Here’s advice from camp directors on how to create the perfect summer for your kid:

What type of child is successful at the camp?

Consult with your child (it’s her summer after all!) but also consider what you want her to gain, whether that’s swimming, making friends, or STEM skills.

Does it sound like she is describing your child? If not, this isn’t the camp for you.

Can you describe the program?

Find out if the program is structured (has a set schedule) or elective (children choose their activities). Also inquire about how the program changes for older kids. For example: Do the elective choices increase with age?

What are the camp’s safety procedures?

It’s important to know about emergency action plans, water safety, medical staff, and camper-tostaff ratios.

Who is the staff?

Ask about the ages and backgrounds of staff members. Find out how they were hired and what kind of training and background checks they went through.

Are you able to accommodate my child’s special needs?

If your child has any special considerations, such as she has food allergies, has ADHD, or is wheelchair-bound, be completely upfront about her needs and make sure the camp is able to accommodate them.

What makes your camp unique?

After pouring over websites and marketing materials, parents often start to feel like all camps look alike. Find out what makes this camp stand out from the others.

How are conflicts handled?

While camps work hard to build a caring community, fights among campers can occur. Ask the camp director how the camp handles these types of conflicts.

May I speak with references?

Ask if you can call parents of campers currently enrolled at the camp, especially ones with kids who are the same ages as your children. They will be your next valuable source of information.

Know What You—and Your Child—Want

Look into the Camp’s Accreditation and Safety

It’s important that prospective camps are accredited by the American Camp Association—it’s a sign of approval that isn’t easy to achieve.

Keep Your Budget in Mind

Look at the total all-in cost for each camp—including transportation, clothing, gear, etc. Then take all the camps that are over-budget off your list.

Don’t Forget Day-to-Day Logistics

About

Think about the location of pickup and drop-off. And, ask about whether the camp has flexibility if you want to take a family vacation.

Do Your Research

Browse through websites—and involve your child, too. Same goes for when you visit camp fairs.

As you research, pay attention to interactions with the staff, facilities, activities, and counselor-tocamper ratio.

Call or Visit the Camps on Your Shortlist

Most directors recommend visiting your two to three finalist camps. Bring your child and make sure the camp seems clean and well-maintained. Calling the camp director is your next best option—try to dig into factors that aren’t mentioned on the website.

The camp should be one your child can enjoy this summer, and for many summers to come.

For help choosing a camp, visit SIPARENT.COM

2020 CAMP GUIDE ON NEXT PAGE

>>

March 2020 • siparent.com 17

Questions to Ask a Camp Director.indd 3

2/24/20 3:26 PM

camp guide

A

re you looking for the right summer camp on Staten Island for your child? S.I. Parent has the ultimate resource for discovering the best summer camp programs for your family. Read our listings for camps including STEM camps, day camps, music camps, dance camps, sports camps and more. Find the right camp program for your family today.

ART LAB

1000 Richmond Terrace • Bldg H • 10301 718-447-8667 info@artlabsi.org artlabsi.com facebook.com/artlabsi instagram.com/artlabsi Children will enjoy hands-on activities in drawing, painting, and sculpture. Various techniques of fine and applied arts are explored as children create exciting, take-home art projects! Half and full days available all summer long.

CHILDREN’S AIDGOODHUE CENTER WILLIAM OSBORN DAY CAMP

304 Prospect Avenue • 10301 718-447-2630 katiel@childrensaidnyc.org childrensaidnyc.org The Children’s Aid Goodhue Center helps children feel safe and cared for by providing planned and structured afterschool, summer camp, and enrichment programs in a well-equipped, comfortable, & stable environment.

CHILDREN’S HARBOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL

1000 Richmond Terrace • Bldg G • 3rd Fl 718.442.6112 childharborms@aol.com www.childrensharbormontessori.com Enriching, stimulating and creative experience for children ages 2-5. Located on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. Program includes cooking, painting, fine arts, crafts, music exploration, movement and dance, and yoga. Educational programs include nature walks, museum visits and lessons in Horticulture and Spanish. Children enjoy games, exercise and free play activities in our large private playground. Early morning drop off starting at 7:30am. Sibling discount. July 6-August 14. Activities are within Snug Harbor Grounds.

FUN STATION DAY CAMP

3555 Victory Boulevard • 10314 718-569-5426 funstationdaycamp@yahoo.com funstationdaycamp.com facebook.com/FunStationDayCamp FSDC offers both local and travel camp packages starting at as low as $30 per day. Free lunch, free door-to-door transportation, free extended hours. Come join Staten Island’s fastest growing camp!

We offer friend/sibling & NYC employee discounts.

NYCID SUMMER DAY CAMP

PS 861, 280 Regis Drive • 10314 929-314-6049 msalem@nycid.org • nycid.org facebook.com/nycid twitter.com/nycid Daily trips to the sprinklers, sports leagues, enrichment specialists, free breakfast and lunch, your child will have an unforgettable summer in a safe and healthy environment.

POUCH DAY CAMP

1465 Manor Road • 10314 212-651-3086 elise.rooker@scouting.org camppouch.org/daycamp facebook.com/pouchscoutcamp instagram.com/camppouch We invite youth entering 1-7 grade to enjoy programs like: archery, arts & crafts, rock climbing, fishing, row boating, swimming, hiking, sports and more. Signup early and save!

RICHMOND COUNTY YACHT CLUB 142 Mansion Avenue • 10308 718-356-4120 sailing@rcyachtclub.org rcyachtclub.org facebook.com/RCYCNY Sail with us! Summer programs for beginner to advanced levels. Ages 7-16. The goal of our staff is to ensure your children have an enjoyable and safe time on the water.

RICHMOND HILL CHILDREN’S CENTER

501 Richmond Hill Road • 10314 718-494-7422 rhcc@verizon.net rhccny.com Camp runs June 29th -August 21st. Ages 2-6. 2-8 week programs from 9am-3pm with optional extended hours. Open 7am-6pm. Weekly themes and water activities. Air-conditioned, peanut and nut free, first aid certified staff.

SMALL WORLD PRE SCHOOL

144 Bloomingdale Road • 10309 718-356-7795 kdsrmybiz@aol.com facebook.com/SWP144 Summer camp and preschool ages 2-6.

June 29-July 24 and August 3-August 28.

Half day & Full day. Open 6:30am-7:00pm.

20% Sibling Discount. 10% City Worker Discount. Licensed by the NYCDOHMH.

SPOTLIGHT YOUTH THEATRE

358 Forest Avenue • 10301 718-207-1128 spotlightTheatreSI@gmail.com SpotlightTheatreSI.org facebook.com/spotlightrepsi instagram.com/spotlighttheatresi Children ages 4-18 perform in fully realized musicals, directed by professional directors, musical directors & choreographers. Also offering performing arts classes in musical theatre, acting, improv & audition prep.

STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY DAY CAMP

715 Todt Hill Road • 10304 718-303-7845 cbruno@statenislandacademy.org statenislandacademy.org/summer facebook.com/ StatenIslandAcademyDayCamp twitter.com/SIA_Summer_Camp Staten Island Academy Summer Day Camp is for kids ages 3-14, Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm. We offer flexible schedules, extended hours, academic enrichment, trips, events, and hot lunch!

Join us for 5 day weeks or choose a schedule that fits your busy life. We are here to provide the safe, secure campus you expect for your family.

18 March 2020 • siparent.com

2020 Camp Directory.indd 2

2/24/20 3:27 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM STATEN ISLAND SKATING PAVILION

STATEN ISLAND COMMUNITY TENNIS CAMP

2800 Victory Blvd • 10314 718-982-3355 sitenniscenter@gmail.com statenislandtennis.com Experienced instructors teach & supervise your child in air-conditioned indoor courts and outdoor courts. Campers have the option to swim each day. Licensed by the NYC Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene.

STATEN ISLAND DAY CAMP 2800 Victory Blvd • 10314

Located on the grounds of The College of Staten Island

800-301-2267 sidaycamp@aol.com statenislanddaycamp.com facebook.com/statenislanddaycamp instagram.com/staten_island_day_camp Staten Island Day Camp is based at CSI so travel is not required. Everything comes to our air-conditioned site with outside ball fields allowing for a healthy and safe experience.

STATEN ISLAND JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER DAY CAMP

1301 Manor Road • 10314 Sept-Jun 718.475.5231 July-Aug 718.983.9000 gwechsler@sijcc.com camp.sijcc.org facebook.com/StatenIslandJCCDayCamp instagram.com/sijcc_camp Explore nature at a picturesque 100acre campsite! Camp programs include sports, aquatics, performing arts, music, coding, woodworking, STEM, archery, boating, trips, and more. Accredited by the American Camping Association.

Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs and inclusion opportunities available.

3080 Arthur Kill Road • 10309 718-948-4800 Sarah Tirro sarahtirro@thepavilion.org statenislandskatingpavilion.com​ facebook.com/statenislandskatingpavilion instagram.com/skatingpavilion We offer learn to skate, hockey & figure skating camps for skaters ages 3 to high school. Learn to Skate & Learn to Play Hockey Camp offered July 6-30 from 9-2:30pm. Campers will have an hour & a half of on-ice instruction and up to one hour of gymnastics/movement/stretch class. Our lessons will physically improve large muscle development and spatial awareness.

WAGNER COLLEGE DEPARTMENT FOR LIFELONG LEARNING One Campus Road • 10301 718-390-3221 lifelong-learning@wagner.edu wagner.edu/lifelong-learning facebook.com/wagnerlifelong instagram.com/wagnerlifelong twitter.com/wagnerlifelong With a wide variety of programs for children and teens, we are committed to providing an enriching, diverse, and nurturing environment that promotes personal, academic and social growth.

YMCA SUMMER CAMPS

South Shore YMCA Branch 3939 Richmond Ave • 10312 • 718-227-3200 bschiuma@ymcanyc.org (Camp Rainbow) shsmith@ymcanyc.org (STARS, Sports, Specialty) nbitetto@ymcanyc.org (Day Camp at Pouch & Combo) mgreenfield@ymcanyc.org (Swim Camp) ymcanyc.org/southshore facebook.com/sisouthshorey instagram.com/sisouthshorey twitter.com/SISouthShorey Broadway YMCA Branch 651 Broadway • 10310 • 718-981-4933 asicuranza@ymcanyc.org ( Early Childhood Camp) lrespicio@ymcanyc.org (Day Camp & CIT) ymcanyc.org/broadway facebook.com/SIBroadwayYMCA instagram.com/sibroadwayymca twitter.com/SIBroadwayY Campers build robots, go on field trips, shoot hoops, learn to swim, make new friends and laugh all summer long!

YOUNG PEOPLE’S DAY CAMP OF STATEN ISLAND

3441 Victory Blvd • 10314 718-701-3600 keith@ypdc.com ypdc.com/staten-island-day-camp facebook.com/YoungPeoplesDayCamp instagram.com/ypdc_si Young People’s has been the most complete day camp on Staten Island since 1972. We provide free door to door transportation along with many activities and field trips. We pride ourselves on communication with the campers and their families. Come check us out as we celebrate our 48th Anniversary!

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH AND PRESCHOOL

505 Watchogue Rd • 10314 718-981-3623 Facebook.com/Zion.Lutheran.Preschool.

StatenIsland ZionLutheranPreschoolSI.org Twitter.com/zlcpssi Your children, ages 2-10, will experience an exciting summer adventure: Passport to the World! Using our imaginations, we will “travel” to various countries with our tour guides and have fun learning during our hands-on activities that include arts & crafts, STEM, sports, music, dance, theatre, as well as daily water activities. Before care (free of charge) and after care (reasonable rates) will be available.

Find photos and videos for these camps on siparent.com

March 2020 • siparent.com

2020 Camp Directory.indd 3

19

2/24/20 3:27 PM

raising kids

Braydon Mannino

Stephen Defeo Lorenzo Hartnett

Brianna Pugliese

BY JOE LOVERDE

A local sportswriter and coach for youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years.

I

had a conversation recently with two young parents about their kids’ involvement in sports and how it was decided which ones their children were participating in.

Both were wondering if they should suggest their child play something in addition to what they were already playing, or maybe switching to another team or sport.

Most of the time this decision comes naturally. When a parent plays sports, it’s normal to want his or her child to play that same sport. Sometimes groups of parents decide together that they are going to sign up their kids for a team.

And sometimes the child tells the parents they’d like to play a particular sport and the choice is simply made that way.

Why should you want your child to play sports? To socialize. To get exercise. To have fun. Those should be the biggest reasons. Some side benefits include getting the chance to accomplish something and gain confidence, learning life lessons about responsibility and working together toward a common goal, as well as and how to handle success, adversity and disappointment.

It should not be done for the purpose of one day having your child receive an athletic scholarship or play professionally.

Although both are possible, they are highly improbable. Repeat: HIGHLY improbable. If this is your motivation, you are getting way ahead of yourself.

So how do you go about registering your child for sports?

And what sport should you choose?

If you play a sport, take your child to your games if possible.

Let them see how much fun you’re having and talk to him or her about it afterward. Children love to imitate their parents.

Play sports with your child. Kick a soccer ball in the yard.

Toss around a football. Challenge them to a running race (you can give them a head start). Give them a whiffle ball bat and teach them to hit. Take them ice skating.

Remember, children have short attention spans, so keep changing up the game or the activity.

Keep it fun. When you find an activity your child likes, praise their successes and keep the enjoyment going.

Make mini-games of the activities. Kids love games. See how long you can have a catch going between the two of you without someone dropping the ball. See who can make the most baskets. Shoot the soccer ball and try to hit a target. Heap on the encouragement.

Look for opportunities for your children to invite their friends over to play these games. Make sure everyone gets a chance to take part in the activity.

Once you see which activity your child favors, it could be time to sign them up to play in a league or on a team. If they ask to be on a team, it’s definitely time to select an organized sport.

Leagues are registering children at younger ages than ever, and to be honest it can be a struggle to keep the very young ones’ interest over the course of a game or a practice.

No matter what, keep it fun. There will be plenty of time to get serious about athletics, but in the beginning making it enjoyable matters most. It’s not called work. It’s called “play.”

20 March 2020 • siparent.com

Good Sports.indd 2

2/24/20 3:28 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 21

Funstation Day Camp.indd 1

2/24/20 3:28 PM

raising kids vaping, tobacco use or any kind of drug use. Don’t lecture your kids, but rather create a safe environment where you can have a conversation with them and answer their questions.

Know what to look (and smell) for.

Eight Tips for Parents to Talk to Teens About VAPING How to combat the scary epidemic affecting millions of teens and pre-teens.

VINAY SARANGA

Vinay Saranga is a child and adolescent psychiatrist of Saranga Comprehensive Psychiatry in North Carolina.

D

espite the dangers of vaping, it still continues to be a problem -- especially in middle and high schools across the country. What can parents do to make sure their children don’t get involved with vaping? Vinay Saranga M.D. is a child and adolescent psychiatrist and offers these eight tips: Show proof. Many times, kids are unaware of the dangers associated with vaping and see it as harmless. Use research, national stories, statistics, and whatever else you can to demonstrate to your teen the proven risk factors of vaping. Help them process and understand how dangerous vaping can be so they are well informed.

Talk to your kids ahead of time. Don’t wait until you suspect your teen is vaping to talk about it. Have the conversation ahead of time before it can become an issue. Make it clear that this behavior will not be tolerated and you do not want them engaging in

As parents, we know to lookout for pipes or devices that look like cigarettes, and most of us are familiar with the smell of tobacco. Unfortunately, you also have to keep your eyes open for the unobvious.

Some vaping paraphernalia looks like common items such as USB drives and pens. Vaping scents can be anything from bubble gum and cherry to fruit punch and cotton candy.

Is it something bigger? For some teens, vaping isn’t something they like, but it’s a way of acting out as the result of a more significant problem. Is your child under a lot of stress lately, feeling anxious or depressed? Are they coping with a divorce or loss of a parent, a recent move to a new city, peer pressure or the victim of bullying? Always investigate to find out if there is an underlying cause.

Don’t follow the crowd. Teach your children that even if their best friends, the captain of the football team or anyone else they may look up to is vaping, it’s perfectly acceptable for them to just say ‘no.’ Wanting to be part of the “in” crowd is one thing, but not when it comes to something as dangerous as this.

Follow your own advice. If you want your kids to avoid vaping, you have to be a good role model. Don’t engage in vaping, tobacco or any kind of drug use.

This is important for your own health but also remember your children are watching your every move.

Intervene. If you believe your teen is engaging in risky behavior or habits like vaping, sometimes a professional intervention can help. This is a tough time in your child’s life that includes dramatic growth; hormone shifts; social, academic, and emotional pressures that they haven’t experienced before. Don’t be afraid to reach out and get professional help for your child.

Text “DITCHJUUL” to 88709. This is a resource anyone can use to get free advice, tips and inspiration for quitting.

22 March 2020 • siparent.com

Vaping.indd 2

2/24/20 3:28 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 23

SI academy Day Camp.indd 1

2/24/20 3:29 PM

raising kids develop your child’s understanding about how different objects behave on inclines.

PRESCHOOL (3-4-YEAR-OLDS)

Invite your child to observe from a safe distance as you boil 1 cup red cabbage in 2 cups water. As the water turns purplish, drain it into a clear container. After the water cools, invite your child to measure a small amount of white vinegar and stir it in while observing what happens as additional vinegar is added. Next, have your child measure a small amount of baking soda or milk and stir it in to observe even more changes. Exploration, experimentation and observation are all key STEM skills.

SIMPLE STEM

Activities To Do At Home

BY KINDERCARE VIA FAMILY FEATURES For more activity ideas, visit kindercare.com

W

inter is the season for family gatherings, snow days and breaks from school and work, but all this time indoors can lead to a serious case of cabin fever for both children and adults. Before you face another chorus of “I’m bored,” consider these simple activities you and your child can do together when winter weather or schedules have you stuck indoors.

Each activity idea from the experts at KinderCare can help children build foundational skills they’ll need for success in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) areas so you can combine fun and learning.

INFANTS

Most babies love sensory baskets, and it’s easy to make one at home. Fill a basket or low-sided container with materials in a variety of shapes, textures, weights, smells and sounds for your baby to explore. While your baby explores the materials and develops hand-eye coordination, describe what he or she is doing, seeing, feeling, hearing or tasting to help build his or her vocabulary.

TODDLERS

Show your toddler how to make ramps by stacking blocks or small cardboard boxes and placing one edge of a piece of cardboard on top. Invite your child to gather toy vehicles or balls and other objects to see how they roll. Gather objects that will roll and a few that won’t. Encourage your child to ask questions and experiment with ramps of different heights. These experiments in force and motion can help

PRE-KINDERGARTEN (4-5-YEAR-OLDS)

Gather a variety of craft items, building toys and recycled materials like construction paper, markers, pipe cleaners, craft sticks, fabric scraps, glue sticks, tape, scissors, blocks, interlocking toys, paper towel rolls, tissue boxes, cardboard, lids and plastic food containers. Place the materials you’ve gathered in a bag. Give your child the “tinker bag” and some space to build. Invite him or her to explore the materials, create something and share it with you as a way to build engineering skills and curiosity. Limiting the number of materials children have to work with can often create more opportunities for problem solving and innovation.

SCHOOL AGES

Gather a few containers from your recycle bin, such as plastic food containers, tin cans or cracker boxes. Talk with your child about how some things typically thrown away or recycled can be reused for the same purpose or a new one. When items are reused, the amount of waste that ends up in landfills is reduced. Invite your child to select one of the containers and decide on a new use for it. When your child is finished creating something new using on-hand craft materials, ask him or her to share the innovation with you.

Give your child feedback in the same way engineers do by giving a compliment, asking a question or offering a suggestion.

24 March 2020 • siparent.com

STEM.indd 2

2/24/20 3:29 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com

sip025.indd 2

25

2/25/20 11:09 AM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

26 March 2020 • siparent.com

JCC ECE.indd 1

2/24/20 3:31 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 27

Fun Station.indd 1

2/24/20 3:34 PM

raising kids

Important Educational Questions EDUCATORS WEIGH IN ON CURRENT TOPICS

WAYS TO JUMPSTART A WRITING ASSIGNMENT QUESTION: My son in fifth grade is not doing well on writing assignments.

It’s like pulling teeth to get him started.

I am willing to work with him. What should I be doing? – Helpful

Experienced educators and authors Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts give solid advice about everything school and education-related.

Read more Q & A on siparent.com/dearteacher Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com

ANSWER: Your son may well be slow in starting a writing assignment because he is unsure of how to approach the task. This is an area in which you can help him.

A common problem is selecting a topic when this is left up to a student.

Sometimes just too many topics are appealing. You can help by having him write his top choices on cards. Then discuss together the merits of each topic and eliminate them one by one. If he can’t make a final decision, have him shuffle the remaining cards and then draw one at random.

Getting the first words on paper is often a roadblock in the writing process.

It can help to have your son write all his ideas on cards. Then he can lay them out on the floor and place related ideas together. You will probably have to help your son find the most important idea, which will serve as his topic sentence.

Once this is selected, the other groupings

of topics can be arranged in the order they will be used. Within each grouping the ideas can be arranged in their order of importance. At this point, the paper has nearly written itself.

A TRIED AND TRUE STUDY METHOD THAT REALLY WORKS QUESTION: My son, who is the fourth grade this year, is struggling to understand his social studies and science textbooks. The poor kid tries so hard and is always willing to read his textbooks. In his reading class, he is actually reading on grade level according to his teacher I don’t know why he never seems to understand what he is reading in social studies or science. How can I help my son improve his reading comprehension in these areas? – Puzzled ANSWER: Reading problems can crop up any time, even for children who are generally good readers. The most common times are at the start of fourth grade, when they start reading content materials, and at the start of middle school or junior high, when the amount of reading greatly increases.

In order for children to understand what they read they must become active readers. As your son reads, he must

28 March 2020 • siparent.com

Dear Teacher.indd 2

2/24/20 3:35 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM always be thinking. Here is a good way to help your son improve his comprehension of both social studies and science materials. It is called SQ4R and may even have been taught to him in school.

A more detailed explanation of SQ4R can be found on our Dear Teacher website under Skill Builders - Study Skills.

Because SQ4R takes time to use at first, you need to guide him through it for several weeks in both textbooks.

Here are the basic steps he needs to learn: 1. Survey: Read headings and subheadings. Look at all illustrations. Read captions under illustrations. Read chapter summary.

2. Question: Write a question for each heading and subheading in an assignment.

3. Read: Read only the material under a heading or subheading to find the answer to each question.

4. Recite: Recite the answer to any step 3 question.

5. Record: Write down the answers that were recited in step 4.

6. Review: Review after all questions are answered. Recite the answers to each question. Repeat this step the next day, a few days later and before a test.

SOCIAL SKILLS NEEDED FOR KINDERGARTEN QUESTION: My only child did not go to preschool. How do I know if she has the social skills needed to start kindergarten?

– Worried ANSWER: Social skills are an absolute must for success in school. While kindergarten teachers do not expect children to behave like miniature adults, they do want them to have most of the following skills. Your daughter should be able to: • Approach others positively.

• Express wishes and preferences clearly.

• Assert her own rights and needs appropriately: Give reasons for actions and positions.

• Express frustration and anger effectively without escalating disagreement or harming others.

• Gain access to ongoing groups at play and work.

• Make relevant contributions to ongoing activities.

• Take turns fairly easily.

• Show interest in others.

• Negotiate and compromise with others appropriately.

• Not draw inappropriate attention to self.

• Interact nonverbally (smiles, waves, nods) with other children.

Parents need to be warm and loving with their children if they want them to get along with others. They also need to have certain rules of social behavior that they expect the children to follow.

Do not panic if your daughter does not have all of these skills. There is still plenty of time for her to gain most of them before she goes to kindergarten. Hopefully she is having some interaction with groups of children. This can help her acquire needed skills. To speed things up, March 2020 • siparent.com

Dear Teacher.indd 3

29

2/25/20 11:10 AM

fun stuff

St. Patrick’s Day Recipes

It’s the luckiest day of the year, so naturally your recipes will turn out amazing! If you’re feeling festive (or you’re fond of the color green), these St. Patrick’s Day recipes will leave your family feeling like they found the pot o’ gold at the end of the rainbow!

Shamrock Lime Sherbet Punch

INGREDIENTS • Lemon lime-flavored 7 Up or Sprite • 1 package Lime Kool-Aid mix • 3 scoops lime sherbet • 20oz can pineapple juice • Lime wedge DIRECTIONS: 1. Make lime Kool-Aid mix according to package details.

2. Add all the juice from the can of pineapple chunks.

3. In a glass place about two scoops of lime sherbet.

4. Fill the glass 1/3 of the way full of your Kool-Aid, then fill the rest with lemon-lime soda of choice. Leave about an inch of room and add your last scoop of lime sherbet.

5. Add a straw and a wedge of lime and enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of sixsistersstuff.com

Green Mac N’ Cheese

INGREDIENTS • 1 pound elbow macaroni • 3 cups milk • 1 cup spinach • 3 Tablespoons butter • 3 Tablespoons flour • 1/2 cup water • 4 cups grated white cheddar cheese • 2 cups chopped broccoli florets • 1 cup peas DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and cook pasta according to package directions for al dente.

2. Place the milk and spinach in a blender and blend until smooth.

3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in flour for 2-3 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low and whisk occasionally for 3-4 minutes until mixture starts to thicken.

5. Add 1/2 cup water and cheese and whisk until melted.

6. Stir in the pasta, broccoli and peas.

7. Transfer to a 9x13-inch baking dish sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling.

Recipe courtesy of todayscreativeideas.com

Mint Chocolate Pudding Cookies

INGREDIENTS • 1 cup sugar • 1/2 cup butter softened (1 stick) • 1 egg • 1/2 cup sour cream • 1 small box instant vanilla pudding mix • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp baking soda • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tsp mint extract • 3 drops blue coloring + 10-15 drops green coloring • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips • 1/2 cup Andes baking bits or crushed Andes chocolates DIRECTIONS: 1. Cream together sugar and butter. Add egg, sour cream and pudding mix.

2. In a small bowl, combine flour, salt & baking soda. Incorporate flour mixture into the pudding mixture and mix until well combined.

3. Add mint extract and food coloring until desired color is achieved.

4. Add in chocolate chips and 1/2 cup Andes baking bits 5. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 for 10 minutes.

Recipe courtesy of butterwithasideofbread.com

30 March 2020 • siparent.com

Recipe st patricks day.indd 2

2/25/20 1:51 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 31

SI family music.indd 1

2/24/20 3:36 PM

special event

Spon

familya day of r fo s n o ities nizati ring orga iting activ e c x tn e r a in p d te -painting, arent an participa e P c d d n fa n a e r la v e Is a th n e’ll h y toge oin State hibitors. W more. s can pla x e id l K a ! c n lo fu lots meet friendly show and e parents il le h ti p w e s r ft e a , a liv and cr ! haracters c e m KE HOME tu A s T o c O , T ic s G A mu

J

GOODY B E E R F A VEN GET YOU’LL E

Meet the following vendors at S.I. Parent Day! A Friendly Face Kidz Applebee’s Staten Island Arden Heights Boulevard Jewish Center Bee Line Entertainment Beezy Beez Honey Boy Scouts of America – Pouch Camp Bricks 4 Kidz - Staten Island Brooklyn Orthodontics Catholic Charities-Mount Loretto Children’s Aid ClinEdge Engage Congregation B’Nai Jeshurun CSI Child Development Studies Dave & Buster’s Dea Music Studio

The Costu Lizard Face Chara Guys Painting Elsa from & mo Reptile Show

By Katrina

Dr Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental) Emergency Children’s Help Organization (ECHO) ET Studios Face Painting by Katrina Fidelis Care New York Girl Scouts Hiatt Magical Vacations Historic Richmond Town Integration Charter Schools JCC of Staten Island Kiddie Wonderland Little Monster Sleep Solutions Los Ninos Services Mathnasium Staten Island

32 March 2020 • siparent.com

SIPD.indd 2

2/25/20 11:38 AM

Follow us on social media

LIPM Music

By Bee Line

Entertainment

Win

Four Tickets to three shows at the St. George Theater

y:

ed b Sponsor

THE EGE OF Y A COLL SUND ISLANDD N BOULEVAR H ATCE T C S R RY O A T I M 2800 V

E E R 29 F D P I S / M NT.CO

2:30PM

Costume

Characters Elsa from Frozen & more!

M– 11:00A

SIPARE

Santos Mroczek MEET Angelica Miss Staten Island’s Outstanding Teen 2020 New World Prep Charter School NY Center for Interpersonal Devel.

Northfield Bank Ortho Smiles of Staten Island Person Centered Care Services Rab’s Country Lanes Richmond University Medical Center Richmondtown Soccer Shop Rite SI Developmental Disabilities Council St. George Theatre Staten Island Academy Staten Island Day Camp Staten Island Family Music

Staten Island Skating Pavillion Staten Island University Hospital Staten Island YMCA Staten Island Youth Soccer League Smiles Around Us/Southfield Institute Spotlight Academy for Performing Arts The Lizard Guys The Resource Room Tiger Schulmann’s Karate Tri-County Care Tropical Smoothie Cafe Weichert Realtors Evolution Group Wendy’s

and more!

Sponsor March 2020 • siparent.com

SIPD.indd 3

33

2/25/20 11:38 AM

family C A L E N D A R

events & news

Our March calendar features hundreds single day. Plan your whole month with us!

STATEN ISLAND’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Sunday, March 1 • 12:30pm Hart Boulevard & Forest Avenue nyaoh.com The 56th annual Staten Island St. Patrick’s Parade will step off at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, led by Grand Marshal Dr. Bob Griswold, a Concord dentist and West Brighton resident known for his charitable work in the community. The parade route begins at Hart Boulevard & Forest Avenue, continuing along Forest Avenue and ending off at Jewett Avenue.

SUPER SCIENCE: FOSSILS

of events in Staten Island! There’s something for everyone, every

WEIRD SCIENCE FAIR

TOP !

PICKS

Saturday, March 28 • 1-3pm Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace statenislandmuseum.org 718-727-1135 Learn how fossils form and about their importance in understanding the long history of life on our planet. 6-12 year olds, accompanied by an adult. Register online. Free with admission.

34 March 2020 • siparent.com

March Calendar LEFT.indd 2

Saturday, March 14 • 1-2:30pm Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-605-3970 nysparks.com Do you like science? Check out the Weird Science Fair at Clay Pit Ponds and test out some funky reactions!

Registration is required. Call 718-605-3970 to RSVP. For ages 5 and up.

COLLINA ITALIANA: LEARN & PLAY IN ITALIAN FOR TODDLERS

First four Mondays in March • 3:30pm Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue nypl.org 718-984-4636 Kids will discover Italian language in a playful and fun environment. Different activities will focus on learning vocabulary and expressions together.

The series will focus on storytelling, songs, games, and creative expression.

Children must be accompanied by a caregivers. Maximum 10 children.

2/24/20 3:51 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 35

Showplace.indd 1

2/24/20 3:52 PM

events & news SUNDAY, MARCH 1 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free Environmental Educators’ Choice Group Hike Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:30am • Free St. Patrick’s Day Parade Forest Ave & Hart Blvd nyaoh.com 12:30pm • Free Owl Hike with Urban Park Rangers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 4pm • Free

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Center 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

Mad Science: Black and Blue Oceans Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4pm • Free (must register)

TUESDAY, MARCH 3

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free

Tots Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission CloseKnit Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free (must register) STEAMtastic Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 6

MONDAY, MARCH 2

Preschool Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free

Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free

Kids can play and participate in fun activities, while parents meet exhibitors. Enjoy activities such as face painting, music, characters, Storytime Playspace meet the Lizard Guys and his reptile friends and so much more!

Mariners Harbor Library Sponsored by:

SUNDAY THE

OF MARCH COLLEGE STATEN ISLAND

29 FREE 2800 VICTORY BOULEVARD

Sponsors

11:00AM–2:30PM

SIPARENT.COM/SIPD

March 2 - Read Across America Day March 8 - Daylight Saving Time begins March 8 - International Women’s Day

Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free Women’s Day Reading with Staten Island OutLOUD Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 2pm • Free Dr. Suess Day South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

March 10 - Purim March 17 – St. Patrick’s Day March 19 – First Day of Spring

Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Learn Mandarin with Bilingual Birdies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free

Drawing Club Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free

Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free

Songs and Stories from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Game Day South Beach Library 25 Robin Rd 718-816-5834 2pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal St 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

36 March 2020 • siparent.com

March Calendar LEFT.indd 3

2/24/20 3:47 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com

sip037.indd 2

37

2/24/20 3:55 PM

events & news Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

SATURDAY STORYTIME AT BARNES & NOBLE

NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

Every Saturday • 11am 2655 Richmond Avenue barnesandnoble.com 718-355-6033

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 Kids’ Crafting at Michael’s Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/classes 8am • $3 Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free DIY Binoculars Home Depot All Staten Island Locations 800-466-3337 9am • Free How to Catch a Dinosaur & How to Catch a Unicorn Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 11am • Free Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free

Barnes and Noble offers free storytime and activities for young children every Saturday morning. Here’s the March lineup: 3/7 - How to Catch a Dinosaur & How to Catch a Unicorn 3/14 - Pete the Cat: The Great Leprechaun Chase 3/21 - Pig the Tourist 3/18 - Macca the Alpaca

Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure St. George Theatre 35 Hyatt Street 718-442-2900 4:30pm • Pricing online

SUNDAY, MARCH 8 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free

International Women’s Day Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure 10am • Free St. George Theatre International Women’s Day: 35 Hyatt Street The Riot Grrrls 718-442-2900 SI Children’s Museum 1pm • Pricing online 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 Family Art Workshop: Voting Rocks!

12pm • Free Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A Living with Deer 718-727-1135 Greenbelt Nature Center 1pm • Free w/admission 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 Wings of Fire FanWing Fan Fest 1pm • Free Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue Life Through The Lens: 718-355-6033 Alice Austen Birthday Tribute 2pm • Free SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Cinema Saturdays 718-273-2060 Stapleton Library 2pm • Free 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free MONDAY, MARCH 9 T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

Toddler Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free Leprechaun Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free Collina Italiana: Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Ctr 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 10 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission Learn Mandarin with Bilingual Birdies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Scissors Skills for Preschoolers Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4pm • Free Evening Frog Watch USA Monitoring Session in High Rock Park Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 7:15pm • Free

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11 Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 8am • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

38 March 2020 • siparent.com

March Calendar LEFT.indd 4

2/24/20 3:47 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 39

Pool Doctor.indd 1

2/24/20 3:55 PM

events & news Tots Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

ZIMMER CLUB FREE YOUTH WINTER PROGRAM

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Anti-Bully Support Workshop Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 584 Bloomingdale Road 646-765-6531 4:30pm • Free

THURSDAY, MARCH 12 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free (must register) Kids Puzzle Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free Anti-Bully Support Workshop Projectivity 1953 Richmond Terrace 646-765-6531 4:14pm • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 13 Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Every Saturday • 9am 4411 Arthur Kill Road aezyouth.com 718-948-9599 info@aezyouth.com

The Zimmer Club youth program blends learning with recreation. Youngsters are introduced to to activities that bring conservation topics to life such as environmental conservation, estuary systems, Blue and Greenbelt management, hunting, fishing, boating, first aid, camping, archery, marksmanship, compass and map reading, and more. Please pre-register by email to info@aezyouth.com.

Storytime Playspace Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Songs and Stories from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Game Day South Beach Library 25 Robin Rd 718-816-5834 2pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal St 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free YA Book Club featuring A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 7pm • Free NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 Kids’ Crafting at Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/classes 8am • $3 Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free Storytime Featuring Pete the Cat: The Great Leprechaun Chase Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 11am • Free

Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

SUNDAY, MARCH 15 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free Natural Basket Weaving Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free Sea Shanty Sessions Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free

MONDAY, MARCH 16 Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Wildlife Viewing: All About Ducks Clove Lakes Park 626 Clove Road 718-967-3542 11am • Free

Toddler Storytime with Police Officers Louise & Tammy Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free

Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free

Sensory Storytime Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free

Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free

Pi Day Party SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 12pm • Free w/admission

Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free

Weird Science Fair Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 1pm • Free

Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

40 March 2020 • siparent.com

March Calendar LEFT.indd 5

2/25/20 1:13 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com

sip041.indd 2

41

2/24/20 3:56 PM

events & news Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

DIY BINOCULARS Saturday, March 7 • 9am-12pm Home Depot All Staten Island locations 800-466-3337 homedepot.com/workshops

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Center 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 17 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free

Set out on an adventure with your child in this month’s free Home Depot workshop. Kids develop hands-on skills by gluing, hammering and more. With help from parents and store associates, your child will create his or her own pair of binoculars to take home. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron and a commemorative pin while supplies last.

Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Learn Mandarin with Bilingual Birdies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free

St. Patrick’s Day Crafts Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

Con Edison Family Science Night Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 6:30pm • Free

T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 8am • Free

Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3

Tots Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free (must register)

Spring BINGO Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 Preschool Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free Storytime Playspace Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Songs and Stories from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Game Day South Beach Library 25 Robin Rd 718-816-5834 2pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free

Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal St 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 Kids’ Crafting at Michael’s All Staten Island locations michaels.com/classes 8am • $3 Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free Storytime and Activities Featuring Pig the Tourist Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 11am • Free Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free Read & Make Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Forest Restoration Workshop Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 11am • Free Sensory Playdate Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

42 March 2020 • siparent.com

March Calendar LEFT.indd 6

2/25/20 1:19 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 43

JCC spring programs.indd 1

2/24/20 3:57 PM

events & news SUNDAY, MARCH 22

ANTI-BULLY SUPPORT WORKSHOPS

NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free

March 12 • 4:15-5:15pm (North Shore) Projectivity • 1953 Richmond Terrace March 11 • 4:30-5:30pm (South Shore) Rossville AMA Zion lower hall 584 Bloomingdales Rd. 646-765-6531

Remembering Poet Audre Lorde SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/admission

MONDAY, MARCH 23 Toddler Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free Collina Italiana: Learn and Play in Italian for Toddlers Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free

These monthly meetings hosted by Play It Forward are for children and teens experiencing any type of bullying (in-school, cyber-bullying, food allergy, etc), and parents looking for resources. All children and parents are welcome. The meetings bring those together who have lived through this experience and offer a safe place to share stories and brainstorm on how to handle the problem. Call 646-7656531 to confirm dates.

TUESDAY, MARCH 24

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25

Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free

Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 8am • Free

Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Tots Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission

Learn Mandarin with Bilingual Birdies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free

T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free

Building Solar Race Cars Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4pm • Free

Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Center 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

Free Special Education Workshop Event The Institute for Basic Research 1050 Forest Hill Road 718-227-2171 10:30pm • Free

THURSDAY, MARCH 26 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3

SAGE Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free St. Patrick’s Day Crafts Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free 3D Printing Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free (must register) Freestyle Paint Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 27 Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Storytime Playspace Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free • Songs and Stories from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Game Day South Beach Library 25 Robin Rd 718-816-5834 2pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal St 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

44 March 2020 • siparent.com

March Calendar LEFT.indd 7

2/25/20 1:19 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com

sip045.indd 2

45

2/24/20 3:58 PM

events & news SATURDAY, MARCH 28

UPCOMING EVENTS

Kids’ Crafting at Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/classes 8am • $3

DR. SUESS DAY

Monday, March 2 • 3:30pm South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 nypl.org

Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free Sensory Story Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free Storytime and Activities Featuring Macca the Alpaca Barnes & Noble 2655 Richmond Avenue 718-355-6033 11am • Free Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free Music and Movement Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free Staten Island Reading Association Family Literacy Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/admission Super Science: Fossils Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 1pm • Free w/admission Art in the Park: Tree Cookie Crafts Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 1pm • Free Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free

Celebrate Read Across America Day, Dr. Seuss’ birthday, with a fun Cat in the Hat read-aloud and craft. For kids ages 3-12.

THURSDAY, APRIL 2 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • Free Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 CloseKnit Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free

FRIDAY, APRIL 3 Staten Island Parent Day The College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Blvd 718-494-1932 All ages • 11:30am • Free Register at siparent.com Evening Wildlife Viewing: Frog Watch with the Urban Park Rangers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 7pm • Free

MONDAY, MARCH 30 Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11:15am • Free Toddler Time Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free Baby Space Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Ctr 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 31 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • $6 plus admission Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free T.A.G. South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free

NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

SATURDAY, APRIL 4 Zimmer Club Free Youth Winter Program Zimmer Club 4411 Arthur Kill Road 718-948-9599 9am • Free

SUNDAY, APRIL 5 NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free

MONDAY, APRIL 6 Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor Christopher’s Reason Recovery Ctr 7pm • Free

THURSDAY, APRIL 9 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • Free Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3

FRIDAY, APRIL 10 NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free

Details on these events can be found on SIPARENT.COM/EVENTS Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

46 March 2020 • siparent.com

March Calendar LEFT.indd 8

2/25/20 2:15 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com 47

RUMC.indd 1

2/24/20 3:58 PM

Sign Up

fun stuff Have your cake and eat it too!

BIRTHDAY FREEBIES

siparent.com

Happy ! y a d h t r Bi

on your big day!

FREE KIDS MEAL

AT WENDY’S (Staten Island only) 1761 Forest Avenue • SI, NY 10303 1661 Hylan Boulevard • SI, NY 10305 26 Richmond Hill Road • SI, NY 10314 6420 Amboy Road • SI, NY 10309 25 Putnam Street • SI, NY 10312 300 Bay Street • SI, NY 10301

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS S.I Parent welcomes our newest Staten Islanders!

FREE JUNIOR CONE & SPRINKLES

Alyssa Isabelle Guadalupe

Teddy Lee Robinson, Jr.

AT EGGER’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM 1194 Forest Avenue • SI, NY 10310 • 718.981.2100 441 Carke Avenue • SI, NY 10306 • 718.280.1142

5 pounds, 1 ounce December 10, 2019 Parent: Natalia

9 pounds, 5 ounces July 25, 2019 Parent: Tyesha

FREE $5 BONUS PLAY & 250 TICKETS

Melany Vazquez

Ava Victoria Ahrens

AT iPLAY AMERICA 110 Schanck Road, Freehold, NJ 07728-2938 732.577.8200

FREE $5 POWER CARD

AT DAVE AND BUSTERS 2655 Richmond Avenue • SI, NY 10314 929.464.2700 MARCH 1 Hadiyah Ali Isabella La Greca John Marfoglio Angelina Rose Frascona Lucca Ulitto Carter Smalls Jaiden Castillo Autumn Carletto

MARCH 2 Giordana Florio Marcus Payet Breanna Body Kristina Chu Chelsy Midy Kristina Chu Madison Peragine Vincent Cassieri MARCH 3 Josiah Montantine Christopher Allegretti Aiden Reese Josiah Montantine Gabriella Chicchetti Matthew Moseychuk Matthew Cintron Christopher Allegretti MARCH 4 Jeremy Trigo William-Izaiah Eason IV Samantha Smith Billy Jernigan, Jr. Isaiah Pizarro Hiba Ahmed McKenna Whitney

Zachary Kizer Christopher Bradshaw MARCH 5 Emily Guercia Sarah Rivera Christopher Redmond Kellie Betances Lena Lane Eddie Kraus Madison Terzo MARCH 6 Shannon Delaney Justin Joiner Joseph Nerone Ethan Sverdlov Brendon Sharman Sarah Carrasquillo Ethan Sverdlov Emma Troy MARCH 7 Lauren Padula Joseph Gavin Nerone Aidan Doctor Adrianna Flynn-Taliercio Mateo Palacios Lucia Alfano Andrea Lella Dakai Royer Gabrielle Victoria Limeri Aryan Bukhari MARCH 8 Steven Costigan Jr. Haley F. Chapan Sean Bosch

7 pounds, 10 ounces December 10, 2019 Parent: Rubi

7 pounds, 9 ounces May 20, 2019 Parents: Lillian & Jonathan

Nicole Pepe Michelangelo Monterroso Christian Rocha Anderson Laviena MARCH 9 Caelen Ryan Jenna Dian Zaluk Bethany Werth Jason Dennis Mitchell Samantha Stein Matthew Jernigan Bridgette Ryan Scarlett Bozzo Mujei I.E. Salia MARCH 10 Haneen Ali Abigail Intravia Nicholas Cisak Julia Gabrielle Goldstein Nathaniel Jackson Peter Velotti Chase Macri Evan Lash Brandon Kelly MARCH 11 John Rutherford Destiny De Jesus Brianna Intravaia Emily Pollio Aidan Doctor Brianna Portney Chloe Sophia Antabi Riley Breen Christian Spinelli

Deven Austen Egipciaco

Casey Jo Velasco Leslie Salas MARCH 12 Liana Bowman Taylor Marie Billera Jonathan Crockett Harper Omholt Isabella Pilzer Gwen Ruffino Chace Ruffino Arlind Zhabjaku Giada Rosa Scarlett Mercado MARCH 13 Sarah Mauceri Naveen Abdepuiahab Gabrielle Iacono Catherine Farley Cameron Bracker Evie Spinelli Julianna Triano Gabriella Triano

8 pounds, 1 ounce September 13, 2019 Parents: Lauren & James

Alessia Callie Cotroneo

8 pounds, 5 ounces July 25, 2019 Parent: Alaina John Lopez Jodi Walters Ciara Dove Ryan Villamagna Joseph Ditre Ryan Villamagna Justin Assante Ava Aragona Andrew Giampietro MARCH 16 Samantha Weisselberg Isabella Marie Ramos Ethan Gorinshteyn Justin Vargas Breanna Rice Juan Hernandez Nicaletta Zumbo Julian Gilberti Melania Ruggiero Santiago Quintero

MARCH 14 Alexa Puzio Camryn Vitale Madilyn Dolce Joshua Elias Lyla Atlas Riviera Marie Occhipinti Gabriella Juliette Alonso Sydney Cilente Avery Shearin

MARCH 17 Santana Fonseca Jacklyn Pellegrino Shane Santomassino Nicole Marolla Malachi Moore Kiana Hernandez Sean Costa Isaiah Roland Patrick Cashin Luca Grimaldi Mishal Chugtai John Carbonaro

MARCH 15 Kaityln Sitro

MARCH 18 Michelle Bruno

Follow us on social media

LIPM Samantha Troia Meleena Troia Chianne Montgomery Brianny Montanez Madison Rivera Danielle Parisi Isabella Rose Alba Liam Reese Tiffanee Gentner Serena George Isabella Sanabria MARCH 19 Isabella Moreira Thomas Patrick Moane Gabriella Grinberg Daniella Cordova Usha Lingala Madison Catalano Ava Lynn Correa Sophia Mallette Cassandra Mai Skylen Rivera Jenny Ortiz MARCH 20 Matthew Piccione David Kurbalidze Zack Douhour Kaylie Portaro Ivanna Elkik John Santora Ronald Gasparik Vincent Charles Villarreal Gaspare Randazzo MARCH 21 Noel Torres Christina Nicole Fallon Jamie Pugliese Lauren Marino Kaylie Portaro Frank Paoli Mallory Colon Jeffrey Huhem Gerard Apoe Henry Whitford MARCH 22 Vincent Grillo Lucas Velasquez Karinna Marie Ramos Marianna Finn Romina Greco Amira Vailes Cassie Mai Leo Wong Serenity Hanley Hunter Crimmins Aiden Maisonet MARCH 23 Anthony Santoro Marissa Mauro Anthony D’Alessandro Angela Dinkle Briaca Gosk Brian Edward Donges Kayleigh Echavarria James Olsen Anthony Tesi Michael Wilson Jr. Julianna Masoni Mia Ramos MARCH 24 Victoria Roca Jessica Pavia Joseph Ferrandino Jamir McNab

Maliyah McNab Carmela Maggio Steven Snyder Ava Raschella Jordan Koffler MARCH 25 Emily Enriquez Vinessa Vasquez Nikita Kasmauskas Nicholas Appugliese Nicholas Lombardi Staci Stabile Jake Bozzo Thomas Hughes Mason Perrone MARCH 26 Darby De Sapio Jayden Luke Alexandria Sicari Robert Goldstein Alexis Fox Kurtis-Joseph Duncan Ava Lynn Wepy Matthew Dominguez Jackson Stefanski MARCH 27 Gianna Colon Julian Chapman Gianna Colon Peter Anthony Mazzoli Gianna Colon Esosa Oghayore Nota Lemberg MARCH 28 Ryan Falco Anthony Naselli Maria Tirado Natalie Bland Allison DiMare Ava Beck Charlotte Morrelli MARCH 29 Khamani Clapp Joseph Orlando Bryonna Pearson Dante DiPietro Sebastian Lopez Reginald Jordan Olissa Rijo Francesco Citera MARCH 30 Nicholas Pizzo Brian Badalamenti Anthony Siminson Jr. Jessica Orihara John Santomassino Anthony Siminson Jr. Brian Badalamenti Brandon Perrotta Dylan Marin MARCH 31 Gloria Danza Hailey Kohler Birttany Blacknall Paige Marie Campanelli Meaghan Harris Michael Pira Egidio Fioribello Matthew Mascetta Kimora Pratt

Please present this page. Good only for birthday club members on this list. Offer valid for the month. Call before to check availabilty.

48 March 2020 • siparent.com

Birthday Club.indd 1

2/26/20 11:46 AM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com

sip049.indd 2

49

2/24/20 4:00 PM

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

50 March 2020 • siparent.com

sip050A.indd 1

2/25/20 11:08 AM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com

sip051.indd 2

51

2/24/20 4:01 PM

raising kids Are you seeking out nearby resources in legal services, speech development, therapy or other specific need? These local professionals will aid you on your journey.

ATTORNEYS FERSCH LLC

11 Broadway, Suite 550 New York, NY 10004 212.422.2660 www.pffamilylaw.com Familylaw@pffamilylaw.com Facebook & Twitter: @FerschLLC

Fersch LLC practices exclusively in matrimonial and family law. We handle cases in NYC courts, as well as Long Island and Westchester. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and determined advocates for our clients.

We provide care and attention to clients and their families of all income levels and serve all of NYC & surrounding areas.

KURT T. RICHARDS, P.C. Attorney at Law 1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY 718.720.1000 • www.krichardspc.com

Divorce, Family Court, Child Custody, Spousal & Child Support, Domestic Violence, Adoptions, Name Changes, Annulments, Separation Agreements. Free Consultation for Divorce Actions. 24 Hour Phone Service.

ORTHODONTICS SALVATORE R. INDELICATO, D.M.D., P.C. 444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312 718.967.5213 • www.bracesbydrindelicato.com

Orthodontic Specialist. Mini & Clear Braces, Invisalign, Digital Scanner, Free Consults. Gentle, personal, quality care for children/adults. American Assoc. of Orthodontists & Diplomate of American Board of Orthodontics Member.

PSYCHOLOGY BLUE SKIES PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, P.C. 710 Forest Avenue • 10310 347.464.5550 • BlueSkiesPsychological.com​

Providing counseling, medication management and psychological testing to the Staten Island community in a warm & welcoming environment.

We also assist those seeking OPWDD eligibility, permanent guardianship, testing accommodations, etc. Accepted insurances listed on our website.

PSYCHOTHERAPISTS Offering hope to individuals & families whose lives have been turned upside-down

STATEN ISLAND YMCA COUNSELING SERVICE by addiction. We treat families, not just individuals. Services: Individual, Group & SOUTH SHORE CENTER 3911 Richmond Avenue • 718.948.3232 Open Intake Hours available 6 days a week ymcanyc.org/locations/counseling-service NORTH SHORE CENTER 285 Vanderbilt Avenue • 718.981.4382

Family Counseling, a Little Steps program for children coping with a loved one’s addiction, Intensive Outpatient Treatment, Medication Assisted Treatment, Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders including on-site psychiatric services, Crisis Intervention, Assessment & Referral Services, Anger Management for youth/adults, Parenting Skills classes, FREE Narcan training/kits, Immigrant Resource Center including English as a Second Language Classes. Financial Assistance.

ANGELA CAPECE, LMHC

Anxiety, depression and relationship issues can range from restricting to debilitating. If you are eager to free yourself from long-standing unhelpful behaviors, then psychotherapy can help you find the answers you seek and the tools you need to promote growth and change in your life. My initial goal is to provide you with confidential and personalized therapy to begin your journey to emotional well-being. In my therapeutic work, I incorporate facets of my professional career which have included positions in educational and clinical sectors.

In working with you, I will draw these diverse experiences in order to provide you with a culturally sensitive treatment plan.

NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Couples Counseling, Self-Esteem, Stress Reduction and Management.

917.636.3256 • acapece810@gmail.com

By Appointment • Day and Evening Hours

MICHAEL DESIMONE PH.D, LCSW

Helping Adults, Children and Adolescents with Anxiety, Fears & Worries, Anger, 175 Burbank Ave, 10306 • michaeldesimonetherapy.com Depression, Grief/Sadness, Insecurity, Shyness, Self- Esteem, Relationship Problems, Private, Comfortable & Confidential.

718.650.9000 • michael.w.desimone@gmail.com

SPECIAL NEEDS EASTERSEALS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER Angela Torres 80 Woodrow Road • SI, NY, 10312 718.356.6566 • easterseals.com/newyork

Now enrolling Pre-K For All, 3-K & CPSE. Therapy provided for our Special Needs students. Full day school with lunch & snack. NYC DOE curriculum and support services. Nurse on staff. No tuition.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director 3767 Hylan Blvd, 10308 • qualitycarespeech.com 718.605.4301 • qualitycarespeechcenter@gmail.com

NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists. OT & PT; Evaluation & Treatment of Pediatric Speech, Language, Feeding, Oral, Fine & Gross Motor Disorders; PROMPT; Russian Bilingual Services; State-of-the-Art Sensory Gym; Dept of Ed Provider (CPSE & RSA); Primary Designation for PT; Top Tier for Speech & OT.

52 March 2020 • siparent.com

Professional Directory2.indd 2

2/24/20 4:03 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM SPEECH PATHOLOGY PRECARE SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY, PC 718.259.4001 1829 Richmond Rd SI, NY 10306 3099 Coney Island Ave Bklyn, NY 11235 www.slpmd.com

SANDRA MAZZUCCO M.A., C.C.C.-SLP Annadale Town: 465 Belfield Ave North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave 718.815.6024

CLAIRE GUTTSMAN M.A., C.C.C. - SLP 1076 Forest Avenue (Corner of Manor Road) 718.447.5501

SOUTH SHORE SPEECH PATHOLOGY

520B Bloomingdale Rd • Staten Island, NY 10309 718.608.1508 • southshorespeechtherapy.com

A team of professionals evaluate, diagnose & treat patients with communication disabilities, such as articulation disorders, phonological awareness, apraxia, dysarthria, feeding, traumatic brain injury, speech issues from hearing loss, auditory processing disorders, receptive/expressive delays, impaired language, voice disorders, jaw instability, stuttering/cluttering & lisps. If your child is experiencing issues with fluency (stuttering/cluttering), articulation, apraxia (motor planning for sound), oral-motor weakness, feeding or swallowing issues or receptive & expressive language delays, our certified speech language pathologists can work with your child to improve these issues.

NYS Licensed Speech Language Pathologist. Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults, PROMPT Trained, Oral Motor & Feeding Therapy, Specializing in Fluency. ASHA Certified.

Nationally certified professional providing quality evaluations & treatment of adults & children for over 40 yrs. Services: public speaking classes, accent reduction, corporate speech pathology & lecturing. Approved NYC Dept. of Ed. Provider. (CPSE & RSA)

Kids suc

Evaluation & treatment of pediatric speech & language, fine & gross motor delays & disorders; Dept. of Ed. CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation; Most Insurance Accepted. Homecare & School Services Offered.

TUTORS SUZANNE ODESSA 917.797.9681 musik2kids@gmail.com

Piano lessons for all levels and all ages. Specializing in toddlers & preschoolers. Personalized instruction.

MR. ABDO TUTORING

• Algebra 1, 2 and Geometry • SAT, Regents Test Prep • GED/TASC Prep

646 624 0073 Tutor_4_math@yahoo.com

• Middle School Math and SHSAT Prep

March 2020 • siparent.com

Professional Directory2.indd 3

53

2/24/20 4:03 PM

raising kids

Finding My

MOM CREW

BY DOLORES SMYTH

Dolores Smyth is a parenting writer who enjoys spending time with her husband, three young children, and her Mom Crew.

You can follow more of her work on Twitter @LolaWordSmyth.

W

hen I became a mom, the question of where I stood took center stage in my life. In those early months of motherhood, I struggled to find my footing as a new parent in a strikingly literal (and comical) sense.

During those “new mom” months, I discovered that changing my daughter’s diaper while in a sleepdeprived fog might cause me to drop said diaper and, in attempting to retrieve it, step full-bore into the used side of the diaper. Likewise, I discovered that walking around the house barefoot might end with me resting my full weight on a Lego and yelping in pain after.

Once the new mom haze had dissipated, I felt a new pull to assess my footing in a broader sense. I had always observed how esteemed (or not) I was in my relationships. However, once I had children, I realized that everyone I let into my life influenced my mood and, consequently, the mood with which I parented.

To put it plainly, if I was busy putting out fires set by difficult people, I wouldn’t have the focus I needed to be the mother I wanted to be. With that in mind, I began surveying my relationships, taking note of which ones sheltered me during life’s storms and which ones were the storms themselves.

54 March 2020 • siparent.com

mom crew.indd 2

2/24/20 4:03 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

I cherish my Mom Crew for helping me to maintain my perspective while I navigate the joys and frustrations of motherhood. This sense of balance allows me to be at my most present for my children, instead of wasting time mulling over the slights of lesser friendships.

One relationship that had become surprisingly treacherous terrain after I became a mom was that of my friendships.

My friendships had consistently brought me great joy throughout my life. Given my high regard for my friends, I resisted the warning of a sage mom acquaintance that, once I had children, I would notice a chill among some of my (single and childless) longtime friends. I did not believe that any such chill would occur as I did not have friends who begrudged other people their life choices. Or so I thought.

Soon after I became a mother, one longtime and non-mom friend floored me by announcing that she couldn’t go out with me anymore because “a wingwoman can’t be someone’s mom.” Unaware of this “fact” and that I was serving as someone’s wingwoman, I mourned the loss of that friendship with an equal measure of bewilderment and heartache.

Still, other friends spent hours seeking my opinion on every detail of their dating mishaps but could barely find time to ask about my day or ask to see my baby. Ever.

This growing lopsidedness in my friendships gripped me with feelings of resentment that often--and unfortunately--distracted me from my child.

Eventually, this troubling chapter gave way to an empowering conclusion: I had control over whether I befriended supportive—or unfriended self-serving—people.

With that newfound clarity, I ended my one-sided friendships and joined several new mom groups in search of more reciprocal relationships. I opened up to strangers in the hopes of connecting with women who were living the same kinds of struggles and victories that I was experiencing in my day-to-day as a mom.

Finding my so-called Mom Crew didn’t happen overnight. However, in time and with the patience that I had prayed for and received, my search bore fruit when the first member of my Mom Crew found me.

I met my first Mom Crew friend at the park. She approached me, introduced herself, remarked that we had kids the same age, and suggested a playdate. With that simple but much-needed extension of friendship, outings went on to become enjoyable for the children and moms alike, and I met someone whose embrace of motherhood’s complexities inspires me to this day.

Since meeting that first Mom Crew member, she and I have befriended other supportive moms. For the past decade, my Mom Crew and I have stood by each other in the good times and the bad.

When one of us was knocked down by heart-wrenching marital problems, the rest of us huddled around her, offering our encouragement, our time, and our own stories of tribulations overcome.

When one of us was silenced by a haughty school official who ignored an escalating concern at our children’s school, our best email writer fired off an email that got the school official to resolve the matter quickly.

My Mom Crew and I bring our strengths to our group not only for our sake but for the sake of our children, as well. Our most creative member plans outings that nourish our children’s sense of wonder; and each of us cares for the other’s kids when one of us is sick or has to attend a meeting mid-day.

I cherish my Mom Crew for helping me to maintain my perspective while I navigate the joys and frustrations of motherhood. This sense of balance allows me to be at my most present for my children, instead of wasting time mulling over the slights of lesser friendships.

My kids, in turn, have benefited from this more-grounded version of Mommy in leaps and bounds, and I have my mom pals to thank for it.

March 2020 • siparent.com 55

mom crew.indd 3

2/24/20 4:04 PM

raising kids

56 March 2020 • siparent.com

porn2.indd 2

2/24/20 4:06 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

I Caught My Child Watching

PORN

BY JEANNINE BENEDICKS-CINTRON

Jeannine is a Staten Island mom of two who misses the days when the toughest talk she had with her kids involved running out of fruit snacks.

I

won’t say it’s every parent’s worst nightmare, but it’s damn near close. And in this high-tech age of digital information sharing, wherein almost anyone can dig up almost anything on the internet in seconds, the risks of your child’s exposure to inappropriate material is depressingly high.

I admit I’ve been more trusting with my kids’ devices than I should have been. I held an ignorant “not my kid” attitude when it came to the possibility of anyone discovering anything sexual in nature. Honestly, my 11-year-old son still thinks boobs are weird and my daughter is only eight. I really thought I had more time to worry about this.

That is, until the day I switched on my daughter’s iPad and was shocked to see a tab open to Pornhub, a popular free pornagraphy website. That can’t be right, I thought to myself.

Surely she stumbled onto that site somehow by mistake. But my denial evaporated with a quick scan of her search history, where I found dozens more x-rated websites and clips.

My heart was pounding in my chest as I scrolled through the list of lewd video titles. Most of the sites were animated. Some were even dirty versions of familiar video game characters — apparently sick people specifically target children with sexually explicit cartoons. I was shaken, horrified.

She’s only eight. How on earth could I let this happen?

Surely she didn’t even have a clue what she was looking at?

My knee-jerk reaction was to punish, punish, punish.

Punish for an eternity, if need be. Let her watch as I toss every electronic device we owned directly into the trash, and maybe even flag down a garbage truck she could listen as they all crunched in the hopper blade.

As angry as I was, and physically ill, I knew deep down that punishing her was not the way to go. It would only be humiliating and could lead to damaging long-term effects. I’m no psychologist, but I knew that much.

I just wasn’t sure how to handle any of it. I needed her to understand that she wasn’t ready to see the things she saw, and without shaming her for essentially being curious. I wanted to do some research to see how other parents handled it, but I hesitated to search the internet. I feared the results Google might spit out as a result of typing both the words “child” and Putting aside the “what “porn” into the search ifs” plaguing my brain, bar. Thankfully, with a I gave her the floor. I carefully worded query, I found some helpful asked her if she had any advice for dealing with questions about what my delicate situation. she’d seen, about her

BE PREPARED

body, about anyone’s As it turns out, young body. She asked why children being exposed they were doing “that to pornography is more common than I thought. stuff” in the videos. She Parents with kids asked if that was how even younger than my babies were made. daughter had faced the same issue I was dealing with. All of my research seemed to emphasize the following key points: • Never shame or punish.

• Discuss it immediately. Ask questions and allow the child to ask as many questions as she needs to.

• Make sure your child is aware that pornography is intended for adults and is often a very unrealistic portrayal of real-life sexual intercourse.

THE TALK

We sat down that night not sure what to expect. I was armed with my day’s research, but there was no telling just how it would go down in real life. What if she denied it all? What if she got upset? What if I lost my temper? There were so many ways it could go wrong.

I began by calmly explaining what I had seen on her iPad, and asking how she learned to look up videos like that. She was very quiet for a moment and her voice dropped down to barely a whisper. She replied that a friend (only seven years old!) had shown her how to type “p-o-r-n” into a search bar during a play date. I knew she was being honest because I had noticed that play date was the same day the day videos started in her browsing history. I thanked her for her honesty.

Next I asked if she understood what she had seen, and she March 2020 • siparent.com 57

last edits for porn article 3

2/26/20 11:52 AM

raising kids replied that she didn’t but that she still found it “interesting.”

She was being sincere, and I saw exactly where she was coming from. We live in a society where sex is a very taboo subject, completely off-limits in even most adult conversations.

Choosing to be open with your child about sex is each parent’s individual right and choice, but as a society we have created a stigma around the topic that makes it understandably mysterious enough to pique the interest of any curious child.

I couldn’t help but wonder... If I’d been more open about it in the past, would she have come to me right away? Would she have asked about the videos her friend had shown her that day instead of doing her own “research?”

Putting aside the “what ifs” plaguing my brain, I gave her the floor. I asked if she had any questions about what she’d seen, about her body, about anyone’s body. She asked why they were doing “that stuff” in the videos. She asked if that was how babies were made. She asked if they loved each other. I continued to encourage her questions, and her dad and I answered as openly and honestly as we could.

In the end, she promised she wouldn’t look at anymore inappropriate videos. We also stressed that the things she’d observed in those clips didn’t accurately represent what happens when two people who care about each other are together—that just like in movies and on TV shows, things are often exaggerated for effect and shouldn’t be seen as realistic.

PREVENTION

Did I handle it well? Time will tell. But I did my best and I think she now has a clearer understanding of what she’d seen and why she wasn’t ready for it.

Although she promised she wouldn’t watch those kind of videos ever again, we are still taking measures to ensure she won’t have access to them.

Setting the privacy controls on your child’s electronic devices is a must. You can easily choose which websites they can and can’t access. Instead of YouTube, try YouTube Kids. Instead of Google, you can let them use Kiddle.co (not .com), a search engine safe for children. Be sure to bookmark CommonSenseMedia.org, which offers age recommendations for thousands of books, TV shows, movies and more.

Consider downloading parental control apps that allow you to monitor your child’s app usage and web browsing, as well as block pornography and inappropriate content. Some also allow you to check all SMS and text messages, photos, and even set restrictions on device use altogether.

I plan to always monitor my daughter’s internet use in the future, as well as continue having conversations together regarding anything at all she is curious about. Keeping the dialogue open from early on might allow for a more trusting relationship as she gets older.

It’s easy to take a “not my kid” stance when it comes to pornography, but as parents we have to remain vigilant and keep the lines of communication with our children as open and honest as possible.

58 March 2020 • siparent.com

porn final edit 4

2/25/20 5:00 PM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

March 2020 • siparent.com

sip059.indd 2

59

2/25/20 11:10 AM

raising kids

WHEN GOOD MORNINGS GO BAD I

BY JEANNINE CINTRON

Jeannine Cintron is a Staten Island mom of two who hits the snooze button more times in the morning than she’d like to admit!

t’s halfway through the school year and you thought your kids would be used to waking up by now, but somehow mornings seem to be getting harder with each passing month. If getting the kids out of bed and to school on time has become the most difficult part of your day, it’s probably time to make some changes to your routine. These tips will help.

Earlier bedtimes. The most effective way to ensure an easier morning is arguably enforcing an early bedtime. If your child is always very groggy when it’s time to get up, she probably isn’t getting enough sleep.

Start by pushing bedtime back by a half hour, then continue to push it back further every few nights until the mornings start getting easier.

60 March 2020 • siparent.com

Easy Mornings.indd 2

2/25/20 10:09 AM

Follow us on social media

LIPM

Keep a similar sleep schedule on the weekend.

It might be tempting to let the kids stay up later when they don’t have to wake up early in the morning, but children thrive on routine.

Changing up bedtimes every weekend will make for a tougher Monday morning. It’s not easy to break that cycle.

No electronic devices before bed.

Devices like iPads, phones, computers, etc., should be restricted for at least two hours before bed. These devices suppress the release of melatonin and make it more difficult to fall asleep, as well as delay the onset of REM sleep once you finally doze off. Reading before bed is a healthier and more relaxing substitute.

Set a good example. If you tend to be tired and moody in the morning, chances are your children will be too. If possible, try getting up earlier than everyone else to allow yourself time to start the day on a better note and encourage your family to do the same.

Pick out breakfast in advance.

Waiting for your sleepy, half-awake child to decide what he wants for breakfast is a good way to lose time and end up being late for school. Ask him the night before, or better yet, make a breakfast schedule together at the beginning of the week.

Pick out clothes the night before.

Choosing an outfit can be another time waster in the morning – one that can easily be avoided by taking five minutes the night before to select wardrobes for the next day.

No electronic devices in the morning.

Mornings are not the time for playing video games or texting friends. Not only will it waste precious time, it’s a distracting way to start the school day that could cause a delay in focus during class.

Follow a strict routine. A great way to reinforce a routine is to assign checklists to each child. Include fields for

teeth-brushing, getting dressed, packing schoolbags, brushing hair, etc. When kids are able to complete all morning tasks on their own and make it to school on time, reward them at the end of the week with an allowance or other small prize.

Avoid yelling/arguing. It’s easy to lose your temper in the morning, and nothing is more frustrating than a grumpy child who’s already running late.

But it’s important that you keep your cool. Arguing will only lead to more frsutration and more yelling—definitely not a pleasant way to start the day.

Leave ample time for getting ready.

If your alarm goes off less than an hour before the morning bell rings, you’re creating a stressful and chaotic morning unnecessarily. It might seem like the extra half hour or so of sleep is worth it, but just think how relaxed you’d be if you didn’t have to rush through your morning like a tornado every day.

Your child may never be the rise and shine type, but with a little extra effort your mornings will improve.

March 2020 • siparent.com 61

Easy Mornings.indd 3

2/25/20 10:09 AM

raising kids Families with young children might consider a family-friendly breed or mixed breed such as a hound. Older kids may benefit from additional responsibilities such as walking the dog or cleaning the litter box.

WELCOME A 4-LEGGED FAMILY MEMBER WITH CARE Tips for a successful, lifelong pet adoption

B

ringing home a new pet can be exciting and heartwarming. Before you get caught up in the excitement of adopting a pet, however, it’s important to do a bit of homework and have conversations to ensure you’re choosing a lifelong fit for your family.

When considering adopting, keep in mind that pets can provide as many benefits to you as you do them, such as helping to reduce stress, providing companionship, getting the daily recommended amount of physical activity and more. As you take your options into account, remember these guidelines from the experts at PetSmart Charities to prepare for a successful homecoming for your newest family member.

Life Stages If you prefer a lower energy pet, seek a senior (age 7 or above) who may move a little slower.

For higher energy, look for young puppies and kittens or active breeds such as Labradors, hounds, American terriers (commonly known as pit bulls) and mixed breeds.

For first-time pet owners, a healthy adult dog or cat can help teach new pet parents the joys of having a pet and may not require as much attention as a puppy or kitten.

Living Environment In addition to the type and age of pet you adopt, you’ll need to consider the space you have available to welcome your furry friend.

If you live in a home, consider fencing your yard for more relaxed playtime. If you live in an apartment, discuss any restrictions with your landlord and find out where the closest dog parks are to ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise.

Dogs need a place to call their own where they’re contained overnight and while you’re not home until they can be safely left to roam.

Get a crate so your new pet can have an ‘apartment’ within your home.

You should always have more litter boxes than you do cats; for example, if you have one cat make sure you have at least two litter boxes. Litter boxes need to be scooped daily and completely changed weekly.

Veterinary Care Most adoptions come with a free veterinary check-up within the first week. Visit the veterinarian to have your pet’s vaccine records reviewed and ensure you know the best options for food, exercise and preventative care.

You can prevent many common diseases by keeping your pet at a healthy weight, current on flea, tick and heartworm prevention, fully vaccinated and on a high-quality diet.

Preventing diseases costs less money than treating them, so discuss any concerns you have with your veterinarian.

Financial Considerations Most pets come with annual veterinary bills between $200-500 and food bills between $200-400.

Adopting a pet can provide cost savings, however, as fees at shelters and adoption events are typically lower than breeders and many of these pets are already spayed or neutered.

To ensure your pet is covered in case of emergencies, consider options like pet insurance or opening a designated savings account and depositing 5% of your pay each pay period.

If you take out an insurance policy as soon as you adopt your pet, he or she will not have any “pre-existing” conditions excluded from your insurance plan.

Find more tips for a successful pet adoption and locate upcoming adoption events in your community at petsmartcharities.org.

62 March 2020 • siparent.com

pets.indd 2

2/24/20 4:10 PM

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

Birthday/Party Services

Fun Station.................................................... 27 Rab’s Country Lanes.................................... 15 Showplace Entertainment Center............. 35

Camps

Art Lab......................................................18, 41 Big Bird’s Playhouse..................................... 51 Children’s Aid-Goodhue Center................ 18 Children’s Harbor Montessori................12, 18 Ed Perpetua Tennis Academy.................... 58 Fun Station Day Camp...........................18, 21 JCC Day Camp.................19, 43, Back Cover NYCID............................................................ 18 Pouch Day Camp........................................ 18 Richmond County Day Camp..................... 9 Richmond County Yacht Club..............18, 45 Richmond Hill Children’s Center................ 18 Small World Preschool................................. 18 Spotlight Youth Theatre................................ 18 SI Community Tennis...............................19, 37 SI Day Camp.............................................7, 19 SI Skating Pavilion........................................ 19 Staten Island Academy Camp.............18, 23 Super Kids Camp....................................50, 63 Wagner College........................................... 19 YMCA Day Camp.............................13, 19, 49 Young People’s Day Camp...................11, 19 Zion Lutheran Church and Preschool.....8, 19

Developmental/Special Needs

A Very Special Place................................... 25 Angela Capece, LMHC, MSEd.................... 52 Blue Skies Psychological Services, P.C....... 52 Claire Guttsman........................................... 53 Dr. Michael Desimone................................. 52

Early Start...................................................... 59 Easterseals.................................................... 52 JCC................................................................ 26 Mastermind Behavior Services.................. 37 PreCare Speech Pathology........................ 53 Quality Care Speech................................... 52 Sandra Mazzucco........................................ 53 South Shore Speech Pathology................. 53 Sunny Days Consulting Services................ 37 Volunteers of America................................. 51 YMCA Counseling........................................ 52

Richmond University Medical Center....... 47 Salvatore R Indelicato, DMD....................... 52 Sunrise Laboratories.................................... 59 Vanguard Dermatology............................... 6

Education, Preschool/Day Care

Restaurants / Food

Music, Dance, Theater, Art & Clubs

Art Lab, Inc.................................................... 41 Dea Music Studio......................................... 29 S.I. Family Music........................................... 31 Spotlight Performing Arts Academy.....18, 31 Suzanne Odessa.......................................... 53

Big Bird’s Playhouse..................................... 51 Children’s Harbor Montessori..................... 12 Creative Learning Clubhouse ................... 59 High Hopes .................................................. 58 Integration Charter Schools....................... 25 JCC................................................................ 26 New Dorp Christian Academy................... 41 New World Prep Charter School................ 49 St. Joseph Hill Academy.............................. 37 Staten Island Academy............................... 14 Tender Care.................................................. 45 Tots R Us......................................................... 50

Harvest Cafe................................................. 25

Family Entertainment, Events & Outings

Athletic Edge Sports Center.......................... 5 Ed Perpetua Tennis Academy.................... 58 Generation Judo......................................... 59 Master Curry Karate...................................... 3 Staten Island Youth Soccer League........... 49 SI Community Tennis Center....................... 37

Fun Station.................................................... 27 JCC................................................................ 43 Rab’s Country Lanes.................................... 15 Showplace Entertainment Center............. 35 Staten Island Parent Day..........................2, 32 Storybook Land............................................ 25

Health

Dr. Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental)...................... 53

Retail

Little LuBella.................................................. 10 Suzanne’s Fashion Corner.......................... 50

Services

Ian’s Majestic Murals................................... 50 Fersch LLC Family Law................................. 52 Kurt T Richards PC........................................ 52 Pool Doctor................................................... 39

Sports

Tutors

Meriam Zahrieh Tutoring............................. 59 Mr. Abdo Tutoring......................................... 53

77

March 2020 • siparent.com 63

• index full.indd 2

2/26/20 11:51 AM

PRST STD

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

info@siparent.com 718.494.1932

U.S. POSTAGE PAID STATEN ISLAND, NY

www.siparent.com

JCC Back Cover.indd 1

2/24/20 4:11 PM