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contents • november 2016 Advertiser Index page 69

Cover Story

siparent.com Your link to all the fun!

Holidays in Staten Island: Deck the Halls or Bah Humbug!

Is it just us, or does the Holiday Shopping Season seem to get longer each year? We spoke to some Staten Islanders and found that opinions were varied on whether it resulted in extending the holiday cheer or the holiday stress.

Read more on page 36

Staff

Publisher & editor-in-chief Roselle Farina Hecht senior editor/Designer Gerri Friscia junior Editor Jeannine Cintron Art and Production Michelle Yannaco operations & finance Director Linda Bellesi

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Holiday Happenings

‘Tis the season for turkey, traditions, and tons of holiday fun! Head over to siparent.com to see our Holiday Happenings section and get the scoop on holiday fairs, tree farms, charity opportunities, local holiday events, crafts, a gift guide giveaway and so much more! If your’re hosting a holiday fair email jcintron@siparent.com to be included in our list.

Birthday Freebies

See which local stores give you a special treat on your birthday. siparent.com/birthday-freebies

Kids Eat Free

Check out the list of Staten Island restaurants offering a day when you can bring the kids to eat for free! siparent.com/kids-eat-free-restaurants

Free Times at NYC Museums

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Three Ingredient Thanksgiving Side Dishes Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms

Keep up-to-date with fun activities for the kids everyday. siparent.com/events

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Holiday Fairs

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Holiday Gift Giveaway

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Bridging the Gap Between School & Home

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A Look at Adoption from the Inside

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Surviving the Holidays from Your Kitchen

5 Tips to Safeguard Kids’ Digital World

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How to Stop the Bully and Spot the Bullied

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Family Calendar Party Needs

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Community & School News Family Classifieds It’s in the Cards Professional Directory

AWard Winning Magazine

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Assistant Nicole Farina

Parenting Media Association (PMA)

features

Save big when you time your museum visit to take advantage of free admission offers. siparent.com/free-times-at-nyc-museums

event calendar

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Account Executives Ilene Cohen Janine Mulé Cecilia Saccomagno Jodi Fatto

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Bye Bye Baby (Furniture)

columns 42 46 48 50 52

What’s the Word, Mike?

Ask the Doctor Growing Up Online

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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.

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stuff you need / community and school news

community & school

everything you need to know about your community

P.S. 35 Wins Blue Ribbon

Image courtesy of gofundme.com

Congratulations to P.S. 35 The Clove Valley School in Sunnyside on receiving a 2016 Blue Ribbon Award, an honor bestowed upon schools across the country in recognition of academic excellence. Just 20 public and private schools in New York received the award this year, ten of which are in New York City. Last year P.S. 5 received the prestigious award. Other past Staten Island winners include P.S.53, P.S.48, the Hungerford School, Staten Island Technical High School, Tottenville High School, and Port Richmond High School.

P.S. 35, winner of the Blue Ribbon Award

>> find links mentioned in Community & School news on siparent.com

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• Middle School Directory • Gifted & Talented Resources • Library HotSpot Registration Form

• Catholic Schools Website • Holiday Happenings • GreenDrop Website • E-Waste Removal Request Form

• A+ Parent Teacher Conference article

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Info in Your Inbox

Want more news, events, activities, contests, savings from local businesses, and seasonal happenings in Staten Island and nearby? Become an S.I. Parent Family of Friends member today! Start receiving our e-newsletters by signing up on www.siparent.com/signup. It’s fast and easy. You can also sign up directly from our Facebook page by clicking on the “Sign Up” app button. we only send the good stuff!

Important School Dates

November 4 – TACHS Exam November 8 – Election Day (schools closed) November 11 – Veteran’s Day (schools closed) November 24 & 25 – Thanksgiving Vacation (schools closed) Public School Parent Teacher Conferences: November 2 & 3 – Elementary Schools November 15 & 16 – D75 Schools November 17 & 18 – High Schools

Public School Directories and More

With the 2015-1016 school year in full swing, it’s time to prepare for what’s to come beyond this year. The 2017 Middle School Directory is available for download and serves as a resource for fifth grade students who will be graduating elementary school later this year. In addition, the deadline to submit a request for Gifted and Talent testing is Monday, November 14 for students born between 2009 and 2012. Go to siparent.com for

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more information on Gifted and Talented Resources, middle school applications, as well as the high school admissions process and other important information from the Department of Education.

When Good Homework Goes Viral

How’s your child’s school year going?

Thanks to some hilariously clever tips from a local third grader, kids across the country should be well prepared for the year. Christopher Bannon, an 8-year-old student at P.S. 69 in New Springville, is Staten Island’s newest internet celebrity after a homework assignment his mom posted to her Facebook page went viral.

Christopher’s heartfelt guide to surviving the third grade includes sage advice for kids of all ages. Christopher’s mom, Melissa Barvels, says that although he was inspired by the book “Amelia’s School Survival Guide,” he came up with the tips by himself. All of this witty student’s advice is both humorous and helpful, but the number one tip to his peers is simple -- “Have Fun!” Check out the entire list below.

Tabs to Riches

Generosity comes in many forms, and for one particularly kind-hearted Staten Islander, it even comes in the form of soda can tabs – 37,000 soda can tabs, to be exact. 67-year-old Marvin Cohen has been collecting the tabs for two years to donate to the Ronald McDonald House, an organization which provides temporary housing to pediatric cancer patients and their families. The assisted living resident is retired and disabled, but wanted to be able to donate to help children in any way he could. After reaching out to a local news station about his collection, Cohen received a personal message of gratitude from the CEO of Ronald McDonald House, Dr. Ruth Browne. “We are very touched at the Ronald McDonald House that someone would do this for us. It really speaks to how everybody can make a difference,” she said. At sixty cents per pound, Marvin’s donation is over $250.

He plans to start a new collection for the charity right away.

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stuff you need / community and school news Property Tax Break for NYC Veterans

Finally, a very well-deserved tax break for local veterans. Governor Cuomo recently signed legislation which will grant a property tax exemption for veteran homeowners in New York City. Although legislation was passed in 2013 which allowed the exemption for veterans within New York State, there was a loophole preventing veterans living within the five boroughs to receive the same benefits as those living elsewhere in the state. With the help of Senator Andrew Lanza, Assemblyman Michael Cusick and Council Members Steven Matteo and Debi Rose, the closing of this loophole will alleviate the property tax bills of more than 130,000 veterans in the city.

“It is only fitting that we show our commitment to military veterans who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom,” Senator Lanza said. “As the proud sponsor of this bill, I think it is important that we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to honor and properly recognize our veterans’ service to America.”

Library HotSpots

Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña recently announced a new partnership with the City’s three library systems, Google and Sprint to offer free Wi-Fi hotspots available for year-long rental to public school students and families to increase internet access at home. The

Holiday Happenings

‘Tis the season for turkey, traditions, and tons of holiday fun! But wasn’t it summer, like, yesterday? Don’t let the holidays sneak up on you this year. As the most wonderful time if the year approaches, we want to be sure you make the most of the season with your family.

Head over to siparent.com to see our Holiday Happenings section and get the scoop on holiday fairs, tree farms, charity opportunities, local holiday events, crafts, a gift guide giveaway and so much more!

If your’re hosting a holiday fair email jcintron@siparent.com to be included in our list.

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program addresses the needs of more than 1 in 5 New York City households who do not have home access to high-speed Internet services. The initiative – the next round of the Library HotSpot program – will launch in 46 library branches across the City, primarily in high-need neighborhoods with low internet connectivity. The branches are all located near DOE Community Schools, including Port Richmond High School and P.S. 78 here in Staten Island, but qualifying families can have students in any public school.

Eligibility to borrow one of the 5,000 free hotspots extends to City residents who are over 18, have no internet at home, have at least one public school student in grades pre-K through 12, have a fine-free library card, and attend a lending event at one of the participating branches. Currently these events are held at the Stapleton Library and the St. George Library Center in Staten Island.

Go to siparent.com to find out how to register for the program.

Mall Closed on Thanksgiving – Sort Of

Sorry bargain hunters, but you may just have to wait a day this year for those super sales. The Staten Island Mall will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Stores will, however, have the option to open from 6pm to midnight, but it is not mandatory.

The entire mall will be open the following day at 6am for Black Friday-goers. Happy shopping!

New Donation Pickup Service

Good news for those of you (read: everyone) looking to make room in your closets and around your home! Instead of leaving your old stuff out by the garbage, there’s a new, easy option. GreenDrop is a company that raises money through the collection of donated clothing and

household items, which is then converted into funding for charity organizations. The Pennsylvania-based company has recently expanded and now provides Staten Island families with its convenient pickup service. Donors simply schedule a home pickup at their convenience and have their donations taken care of for them– an easy alternative to the suspicious donation bins often found in shopping center parking

(Photo credit: Michael Anton, DSNY)

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stuff you need / community and school news lots. Donors will receive tax-deductible documentation and can choose one of GreenDrop’s partner charities to direct their giving to: the Military Order of the Purple Heart or the National Federation of the Blind. Last year alone, GreenDrop raised over $2.5 million to fund initiatives for our nation’s veterans and blind. Link to their website at siparent.com.

Keeping the Faith

Congratulations the Catholic Schools Office of the Archdiocese of New York, winner of the 2016 National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Award. The Seton Award commemorates individuals and organizations devoted to faithful service to Catholic education. “We are incredibly proud and humbled to receive the Seton Award from the NCEA,” said Dr. Timothy J. McNiff, Superintendent of Schools in the Archdiocese of New York. “Catholic schools offer the fundamentals so many of us care about – outstanding academics within a safe and nurturing community.

But at the heart of the Catholic School experience are things we hold sacred – a belief in the dignity of all people, a calling to service, a pursuit of faith, a personal relationship with God, and a commitment to learning. These values prepare our students for success and good citizenry in school and beyond. We will always remain committed to these values and our students.”

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E-Waste Removal Made Easy

Tired of seeing old TV’s littering the side of the road? Apparently, so is the Department of Sanitation. A new pilot program will allow Staten Island residents to request curbside. This includes electronic devices like TV’s, computers and their components, VCR’s, fax machines, DVD payers, cable boxes, portable music players, and video game consoles, amongst others. Pickups will take place Monday through Friday, except city holidays, and may be scheduled up to two weeks in advance. Go to siparent.com to link to a full list of banned electronics or a pickup request form.

Touring Tuesdays

Are you planning to register your child for Catholic School next year? The Archdiocese of New York has announced the dates for its 2016-17 “Touring Tuesdays” events at 140 elementary schools throughout the Archdiocese of New York (which includes Staten Island’s Catholic Schools). Touring Tuesday open house events are designed to introduce prospective families to the benefits and value of a Catholic education. Since it began in 2013, Touring Tuesdays has been attended by thousands of families and resulted in more than 7,000 new student enrollments from Pre-K through Grade 8, across the Archdiocese. These open house events will take place on select Tuesdays

throughout the school year from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. or by appointment. The 201617 dates are November 15, January 10, January 31 (takes place during Catholic Schools Week), February 14, March 14 and April 4. Link to the Catholic Schools website at siparent.com.

Parent Teacher Conferences

It’s time for Parent Teacher Conferences!

Take some time to prepare by meeting first with your child to get a heads-up on any potential problem they might be having in the classroom. Ask if there are any missing homework assignments or any upcoming projects they should be working on, or any other classroom issues you should be aware of. Take note of how long it takes your child to complete homework assignments so you can discuss with the teacher if they are on target with their time management skills. Do they need a lot of help with their work? If your child is struggling, consider their seat assignment in the classroom. Are they distracted by certain other students, traffic near their desk, proximity to windows, or use of technology? Now is the time to ask for a change or for advice on how to help them succeed this school year.

Visit www.siparent.com/conferences for tips on how to have an A+ Parent Teacher Conference.

(Photo credit: Michael Anton, DSNY)

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feature / special needs education

bridging the gap between school & home >> Experts: When parenting a special-needs student, keeping the lines of communication open with teachers, therapists is key.

There is one absolute when it comes to special-needs children: Every child’s diagnosis, therapy plan, and prognosis is different, and can evolve differently over the years.

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Since 1976, there is another absolute: Under terms outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, each child who is determined to have special needs and is given an IEP, or Individualized Education Program, has the right to a free and appropriate public school education, just like any student.

That second absolute however, represents a broad umbrella under which to shelter some 6,429,431 special-needs children, ages 3 to 21, in the U.S. (The figure dates from the fall of 2012 and comes from the US Department of Education.)

Determining just what is “appropriate” for all, as required by law, can be a tall order, and many Staten Island parents faced with this puzzle, say they’ve learned one thing — especially parents of youngsters who are placed in District 75 schools or programs. In New York City, schools in this district cater specifically to the more seriously disabled.

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“Listen to the therapists and teachers, but if

you know your child, do the best you can to get what you need. If they try to take something away from you, don’t let them,” said one mother from Eltingville whose 7-year-old son is currently in a 6:1:1 classroom operated under the auspices of District 75. His mom says he falls into the middle of the autistic spectrum. His twin sister is in a mainstream classroom elsewhere.

“Parents are the boss of their kids” said West Brighton mom Angela Quinn, who spent years advocating for her children. Her two daughters are on opposite ends of the autistic spectrum and are now 32 and 33 years old.

One is enrolled in a day care program at On Your Mark and lives at home; the other has a college degree in literature, lives in her own house, just bought a new car and works as a para at P.S. 37 in Great Kills. “If your kids need it (special kinds of services), they should get it. You don’t have to settle for what the Department of Education tells you. Go with your gut. Fight for it.”

10/26/16 1:14 PM

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Auditory Processing Disorder: Your Child Does Not Have to Live With It!

Auditory Processing Disorder: it’s what the experts call it when your child’s hearing is just fine, but she doesn’t always understand what is said. Does your child say, “What?” no matter how loud or slow you say things? Is she agitated in noisy public spaces? Does she greet most questions with a blank stare? She may have an auditory processing disorder. An estimated one in twenty children has it, and it’s on the rise.

Auditory processing is a series of complex operations performed by the central nervous system that cause no difficulty for most children. They hear sounds and understand them just fine. But for some children, the sounds they hear might as well be in a foreign language, though the child’s ears are working fine.

In auditory processing disorders, the brain cannot interpret the information that the ears hear.

One child may not understand what she hears where there is lots of background noise. She can’t seem to filter the sounds she needs to hear from the sound of the crowd in the surrounding environment. Another child has trouble following instructions. A third child has an excellent head for math and no hearing problems at all, but when confronted with word problems, is completely lost. All of these situations may signify an auditory processing disorder.

But that’s only the beginning of the issues a parent might see in a child with one of the many issues that fall under the heading of auditory processing disorder (APD) or central auditory processing disorder (CAPD), as it is sometimes known to show its origins as a disorder of the central nervous system. There are myriad ways in which APD is expressed.

There is the child with APD who is upset by loud or sudden noises. She bursts into tears when an airplane flies overhead, or puts her hands over her ears when you take her clothes shopping at a busy mall. It is obvious to you as a parent, that your child is overly sensitive to auditory information.

Sometimes the problem with processing auditory information is due to a learning difficulty. The child diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), for instance, generally needs more time to process auditory information. That may mean that by the time you’re finished saying, “Can you go to the store and buy a dozen eggs?” she has grasped that you want her to go to the store, but has missed the end of your sentence completely. Her brain needed more time to process the words she hears—more time that is, than the time it took you to say them.

She might answer, “What?” infuriatingly, every time you ask her to do something. It’s not just a stalling technique to gain time: in her effort to puzzle out what you’ve said at the beginning, she’s lost the end.

In fact, there may be more than one difficulty getting in the way of your child’s ability to process what she hears. You may have noticed your child has no trouble understanding the spoken word in a one-on-one situation, for instance when you read her a bedtime story, but she is hopelessly lost in the classroom where the slightest sound distracts her: a child’s foot swinging endlessly behind her, the sound of chalk on the blackboard, the clearing of a throat, all seem to conspire against your child’s ability to make sense of the teacher’s voice. She can’t seem to distinguish the background noise from the primary sound she’s meant to hear. It all sounds somehow the same.

Here there may be a dual problem of distraction as well as a difficulty in filtering sounds. For such a child, a freer classroom environment is pure torture. The teacher may not mind noise in the classroom, but the child with APD can find it impossible to differentiate the sound of the teacher’s voice from the softer sounds of student chitchat. This is just one possible combination of two entirely different issues that may make it difficult for your child to process auditory information.

At Audiology Island, we’ve developed auditory skills training program that confronts and corrects the auditory processing elements necessary for reading, spelling, and other “sound-to-code” mental models.

Central Auditory Processing Disorder — Audiology Island Can Help!

If you or your child shows signs of Central Auditory Processing Disorder, it’s important to get properly tested and start the process of auditory skills training as soon as possible. At Audiology Island, we’ve seen phenomenal results in a matter of weeks. We encourage you to learn more about our assessment and therapy options. www.asha.org

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Central Auditory Processing Disorder — The Cognitive Approach

The good news is that APD is treatable. People with Central Auditory Processing Disorder can truly excel in life — it’s a matter of training the brain to better process the sounds that define our world. Auditory processing is a cognitive skill necessary for learning — it’s been defined as “what we do with what we hear” (Katz, Stecker & Henderson, 1992).

Dr. Stella Fulman, Au.D , CCC-A Doctor of Audiology

Dr. Zhanneta Shapiro, Au.D., CCC-A Doctor of Audiology

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feature / special needs education

Standing firm and advocating for your child is admirable, and in many cases essential, say those with knowledge of the special-needs community. But according to Laura Kennedy, director of the Early Childhood Direction Center (ECDC) on Staten Island, “it’s really about communicating” when it comes to making progress on the goals outlined in the child’s IEP. Kennedy cites a fellow ECDC staffer as the source of a quote she hears repeatedly: “Your child is in Ireland at home and Bermuda at school,” if there is no communication.

To facilitate this communication, the New York City Department of Education sets aside time for parent-teacher conferences for all students, including those in District 75. The fall conferences for District 75 students are just around the corner — on Tuesday, Nov. 15 (day hours) and Wednesday, Nov. 16 (evening hours).

Kennedy acknowledges that “it can be difficult” to stay on the same page, but she says that, especially with students in District 75 schools, “there can’t be a one-time meeting. Parents must be familiar with the IEP goals. Teachers must know the triggers — what causes negative and positive behavior,” in addition to being versed in an individual child’s IEP. Talking is a must, say the pros.

The mom from Eltingville says she goes to the conferences in each of her children’s schools. She said that parent-teacher conferences are similar in that both of her children are 7 years old. But, when it comes to her daughter, “they’re more about education — about what she is doing in class, where she needs help, how she’s behaving.”

In terms of her son, “the conference focuses on if he’s meeting his goals, what would be a good idea to try. Is it going well? Is his IEP correct? Maybe you could try harder at home because we’re working at this in class. It’s a lot about followthrough,” she explained.

“It’s absolutely valuable twice a year,” she went on. “When you have a teacher who communicates with you, you may see a need for a therapy when the teacher doesn’t think the child really needs it.” She finds the give-and-take useful, and says she reviews her son’s IEP before each parent-teacher conversation.

“He’s always had very good teachers and very knowledgeable teachers. I really get a sense of how he is in the classroom and whether I can put him in a less restrictive environment,” she acknowledged. To date, she’s chosen to keep him where he is.

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One Dongan Hills mother, who has a 9-year-old boy enrolled in a District 75 school, says she doesn’t make a habit of attending parent-teacher conferences. “I don’t take the IEP to the conferences,” she admits.

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However, because she drops off and picks up her son, “I am so hands-on with him at the school. I speak to the paras in the room and the teacher. I get all the information, or I say what I want to say when I want to say it to them — and you get your answers.”

“I might go to one parent-teacher conference, but there’s nothing that’s going to be said that I don’t already know,” she explained.

“Most parents are not prepared,” however, she said.

“Especially the new ones.”

According to two former District 75 principals, who asked

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feature / special needs education

ARCHIE’S FAMOUS PIZZA Opens on Staten Island for the first time!

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not to be named, parents of each District 75 student should be given a five-page “Parents’ Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.”

The document is courtesy of the city’s Department of Education and is distributed to help “foster active engagement between parents and schools…”

Some schools also distribute a one-page advisory titled “IEP Meeting Checklist for Parents.” This is a way of keeping track of the various steps involved in entering the special-needs system and developing an IEP that’s on target and free of error.

The mother in Dongan Hills said she receives the “Parents Bill of Rights and Responsibilities” every year, and she got the IEP checklist.

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“Yeah, it’s helpful. Well, not really. But it’s helpful for somebody who’s new,” she said. In general, she added, “special-ed parents, it’s a totally different life.” You’re feeling your way.

For another Eltingville mother who has two 13-year-old children in two different District 75 schools and with very different IEPs, parent-teacher conferences are a time to discuss therapy. “They (the schools) seem to always lack the therapists we need. There have been a couple times we’ve gone until the month of November without services. Parents must ask themselves and the teachers: Are the mandates being filled?”

“I have no complaints with the teachers my kids have now.

But teachers are limited in what they can do,” she said.

She added this piece of advice: “If you’re not sure what’s written on the IEP, get an advocate. Don’t just sign your name.

You have to be sure what’s written on the IEP. The wording must be exact. If, in your gut, your child isn’t ready to have therapy removed, don’t let it happen.”

All said parent-teacher conferences had some value, though.

Mrs. Quinn and the others agree, the teachers are not the stumbling block. “I never had a problem with the schools themselves. The teachers knew my kids. Yes, they go over the IEP. Are they making their goals? Is there anything the parent wants the teachers to work on? It’s so different between each kid,” she said.

“There could be more services, but the public education system hasn’t failed me,” said the first mom from Eltingville.

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VALUABLE RESOURCE CLOSE AT HAND The Early Childhood Direction Center is a free service, funded by the New York State Education Department with sponsorship by Staten Island University Hospital. The organization is designed to help parents locate and use community services aimed at children from birth to age 5 with special needs.

These needs include the following, among others: Learning problems, developmental delays, intellectual disability, autism, epilepsy, physical disabilities, behavior/emotional problems, ADHD, and chronic health problems.

Children older than age 5, are steered into a Parent to Parent program by the agency.

Consultations are neutral and confidential.

There are 15 centers around the state, one in each borough of New York City. To reach the one on Staten Island, call 718-226-6670.

Source: Laura Kennedy, director of the Early Childhood Direction Center (ECDC)

10/26/16 11:19 AM

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feature / special needs education

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WHAT YOU SHOULD ASK Here are 10 questions parents should ask during parent/ teacher conferences, according to Advocates for Children of New York. The full list is available from the Early Childhood Direction Centern onow StatenfIsland.

Call or a personal tour Is my child working to his ability?

Do you grade homework assignments?

What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses?

What can we do to help develop our child’s weak areas?

What are my child’s academic talents?

What is my child like in class?

What is my child’s learning style?

How does my child behave in the classroom, cafeteria, etc.?

Does my child seem happy in school?

What can I do to support my child’s learning at home?

MORE ADVICE, IN BRIEF Visit SpecialEdresource.com if you’d like to read more about any of these suggestions.

Prior to the conference: Gather information; create a list of questions; prepare notes to assist the teacher, such as changes that may have happened at home recently.

At the conference: Ask the most relevant questions first; refrain from being defensive; ask for clarification, if necessary.

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Post-conference: Discuss results with your child because positive reinforcement is important; ask for help and locate additional resources; consistently monitor progress.

Source: SpecialEdresource.com

WHAT PARENTS REALLY WANT Dongan Hills mom: “I want daily life skills. I want to know that he can care for himself when I’m not here anymore. I am not worried whether he can read or write. I’m a realist. He’s not going to be going to college. I want him to be able to put his socks on. That’s what I wish for my son — that he be self-sufficient in some way in society.”

Eltingville mom 1: Her son “doesn’t go to the conference with her. I don’t want him to go. I can talk to the teacher and see where he’s at to understand his educational goals. It’s really a good time to get his therapists alone. Not a lot of homework is given in his class, but there are other things that need to be done.” (Her son receives occupational, physical and speech therapy.)

Eltingville mom 2: She thinks there is too much emphasis on academics and earning a Regents diploma. “My son can’t hold a crayon, let alone a pencil. They need everyday living skills so they can become more independent.”

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22

Angela Quinn: “The Department of Education keeps pushing the education part. But some of these kids can’t do a Regents diploma. Bring back an auto mechanic program, the barbershop —at P.S. 25.” The only thing that remains at present is the cooking program, she said. “These kids are not going to go to college. Parents have to fight for this.”

By Marjorie Hack, a Staten Island writer

november 2016

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Bridging a Gap.indd 5

10/26/16 11:19 AM

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23 10/26/16 11:28 AM

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feature / adoption

a look at adoption from the inside >>An adopted daugher’s view of what is “real”

Legacy of an Adopted Child Once there were two women who never knew each other.

One you do not remember, the other you call “Mother.”

Two different lives shaped to make yours one.

One became your guiding star, the other became your sun.

The first gave you life, the second taught you to live it.

The first gave you a need for Love, the second was there to give it.

One gave you a nationality, the other gave you a name.

One gave you the seed for talent, the other gave you an aim.

One gave you emotions, the other calmed your fears.

One saw your first smile, the other dried your tears.

One gave you up, it was all that she could do.

The other prayed for a child and was led straight to you.

And now you ask me through your tears the age old question through the years, “Heredity or environment, which am I the product of?”

Neither my darling, neither, Just two different kinds of Love.

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Adoption.indd 2

november 2016

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“You’re adopted. Your parents don’t even love you.” This line, from the movie Dodgeball, is callously delivered by Vince Vaughn but, to be honest, when I heard it I laughed.

I’m very open-minded when it comes to comedy so to me the joke worked in context. But on a serious note, that statement doesn’t make any sense. I’ve never understood how “you’re adopted” could ever be used as an insult. What could be more loving than parents who go out of their way to bring a child into their family?

Yet sometimes a negative connotation still exists. Having a first-person experience with being an adopted child, I feel that more light should be shed upon the true essence of adoption.

One of the first questions people ask me is, “When did you find

out that you were adopted?” It’s a difficult one to answer since my adoption was never something I had to “find out” about– it was never hidden in the first place. As far back as I can remember, my mom told me that she had a boo-boo in her belly and couldn’t have babies. So she and my dad prayed and prayed and prayed and waited and waited and waited and finally I was born just to be their daughter. My parents’ open and loving attitude kept any negative stigma from affecting me.

That story always made me feel like the most loved kid ever, and it still does!

So even though I have always known that I was adopted, not everyone else knows that about me.

Why? Because my adoption is not what defines me. I’m not ashamed of it by any means, but there aren’t many times that I find the need to

10/26/16 11:32 AM

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feature / adoption bring it up. Just like everyone else, the woman who raised me is my mother. Period. No other label is needed.

My birthmother will always have a special place in my heart, of course. Loving and carrying a child for nine months and then giving the baby up cannot be an easy choice, but I believe she made that sacrifice for altruistic reasons. She already had four children and knew she couldn’t afford to care for a fifth. Many mothers might have ended the pregnancy at this point, and others would have tried to make it work with what little money they had. But this article isn’t about pro-life or pro-choice; it’s about an option that is so often overlooked.

I’m forever grateful for my birthmother’s decision back then. It was truly a selfless act of love and strength, putting the needs of her baby ahead of her own heart. She was alone in a country where she didn’t understand the language, yet managed to work with an adoption agency to give me a better life than she could provide. She didn’t receive any money or praise for what she did, and from what I’ve heard, pregnancy and childbirth aren’t exactly a walk in the park. While I hope to never be in the same situation she was in, I do hope I will have her courage and wisdom to deal with whatever obstacles I encounter in my life.

When asked if I ever want to find my “real” parents, I quickly remind people that my “real” parents raised me, and it doesn’t feel that important for me to meet my birthparents.

Sure, I get curious about some things, like whether or not I look or act like them, but I believe everything happened the way it was supposed to, and I respect that.

There’s a good chance that my birthparents think of me everyday, maybe they even gave me a name. But even if they completely forgot that I ever existed, I don’t care. When I was in their lives, they loved me exactly how I needed to be loved, which determined the course of my life. And when my parents entered my life, they picked up right where my birthparents left off, so the flow of love never stopped. I was brought into a home that revolved around finding me and as soon as I got there, our family was complete. I have been raised with so much unconditional love that I couldn’t possibly associate my adoption with anything negative.

I understand that not every story is as simple or happy as mine. Some kids were abandoned or rejected. Some bounce between group homes and foster parents and have endless struggles along the way. My heart goes out to them. I hope that each of them find a home filled with the love they deserve. But in the end, whether there are unfortunate circumstances that lead up to it or not, adoption itself is a beautiful thing and should always be acknowledged as such.

When the time comes for me to start a family, I would be happy to welcome a child brought to me through adoption, because as I have learned through my own life, family is defined by love, not by DNA.

By Nicole Farina, who wants her mom, Staten Island Parent’s owner, Roselle Farina Hecht, to know how much her love and support is appreciated.

26 Adoption.indd 3

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10/26/16 1:42 PM

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surviving the holidays from your kitchen >> Simple tips to take the stress out of cooking holiday meals

As much as everyone loves the holidays and the traditions they bring with them, nothing strikes fear into a host’s heart as much as trying to get hot food on the table. Let’s be realistic, your dining room is not the set of a Hallmark Channel TV special. You don’t have a cast and crew designing, cooking, and strategically placing everything out for you. So let’s try to find a way to have a peaceful celebration without wishing the guests would all go home before they even arrive.

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Start with the guest list Write down the names of everyone you are inviting. Be sure to include yourself in the count. Did you include boyfriends/girlfriends, new babies, and anyone else who might sneak up on you?

main course and all those side dishes.

Try to be realistic regarding the space you have at the table to accommodate chairs, dishes, utensil, glasses, etc. for everyone you are inviting.

Make a shopping list AND STICK TO IT I find the biggest mistake home cooks make is overbuying. If you make your shopping list one or two weeks in advance, you will likely still have your rational brains in your head. If you wait until the day before, or go to the store without a list, you will be standing in the aisles throwing stuff in your basket out of fear of not having enough food.

Create the menu Take a good look at the guest list and make note of food allergies and preferences.

Did your niece come home from college a vegetarian? Is that little nephew gluten-, nut-or dairy-free? If you are not sure, make a phone call to find out rather than assume. It could be the difference between a thoughtful, successful holiday and an epic fail!

Next, size up your kitchen. Planning the menu includes considering stovetop and oven space to prepare appetizers while cooking the

Tip: I love preparing room temperature appetizers such as antipasto, veggie dips, and cheese platters that I can set the up in the morning, wrap and refrigerate, and just unwrap and set out when guests arrive.

Tip: I write down every ingredient for every recipe. Then search my cabinets and refrigerator. You probably already have three jars of Tabasco sauce, at least one horseradish, and plenty of olives. Check expiration dates. To make the shopping experience easier, break down your list into categories such as produce,

10/26/16 11:43 AM

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feature /celebrate I always buy extra dish detergent, dishwashing powder, steel wool pads, toilet paper, paper towels, butter, and milk, to avoid any crisis on the big day.

Let them bring cake When people ask me what they can bring, I always say dessert. Don’t be shy; be specific so you don’t end up with three pumpkin pies and nothing else. My mother-in-law loves to bring the Jello, and my sister-in-law makes a mean cheesecake…done!

Buffets are your friend Chafers will not cook food for you, but they will keep all your food hot at the same time. You can buy aluminum chafers almost anywhere. Just make sure the water pan fits the rack and the food pans fit in the water pans. Buy them all in the same store or buy them as a complete set. Don’t forget the sternos!

The typical seven ounce gel can burns for about two hours.

The aluminum pans also stack well in your refrigerator, so when you have completed a dish, you can cover it and store it pretty easily.

Tip: The chafers work best when you start with hot water in the water pans and the food is at least warm. Allow at least an hour for the food to heat up and don’t be afraid to stir things up to distribute the heat evenly.

Take a moment for yourself Every once in a while, take a look around and remember why you are doing this. You are creating memories for your family, it doesn’t get better than that. Happy Holidays!

STEM

The S and Ma

By Evelyn Rogers, owner of A Taste of Honey Caterers, Inc. tasteofhoney.com

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29

10/26/16 11:45 AM

holiday guide

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side dishes Three-Ingredient Thanksgiving

Cooking for a crowd can be overwhelming, especially on Thanksgiving day. From stuffing the turkey to cleaning the house, you’ve got your hands full. So when it’s time to throw together some tasty side dishes, you need recipes that are low in maintenance but high in approval from guests. These sides are so easy to make, they each require only three ingredients!

Coconut Oil Biscuits Ingredients • 2 cups self-rising flour • 1/4 cup coconut oil (solid, not melted) • 3/4 cup milk Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. Add self-rising flour and coconut oil to a mixing bowl, and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the coconut oil into the flour until the mixture is like fine crumbs.

3. Stir in the milk until mixture forms a soft dough and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl. Knead the mixture until combined, but be careful not to over-knead.

4. Turn the dough out onto a cutting board that has been lightly dusted with flour. Gently roll the dough out until it reaches a 1/2-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out the biscuits and transfer to a baking sheet.

5. Bake for 10 minutes or until the biscuits have risen and begin to lightly brown on top. Remove and serve immediately.

Source: GimmeSomeOven.com

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Thanksgiving Side Dishes.indd 2

10/26/16 1:45 PM

Maple Roasted Butternut Squash

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Cranberry Orange Sauce

Ingredients • 1 1/4 lbs butternut squash, peeled and diced 3/4-inch • 1/2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil • 2 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup

Ingredients • 1/4 cup butter • 4 cloves garlic, minced • 16oz mushrooms (white or baby bella), washed then patted dry

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Directions: 1. Place a large cast iron skillet into the oven and preheat to 400 degrees. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet you can use a pie pan or casserole dish, but you shouldn’t preheat it.

Ingredients • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, plus the zest of one orange • 1/2 cup sugar, or more, to taste • 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries

2. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash with oil, maple, salt and fresh ground pepper.

3. Place in a baking dish, cover with foil and roast in the center of the oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil, turn the squash and bake an addition 15 minutes, or until fork tender (time will vary depending on the size of the squash).

Source: SkinnyTaste.com

2. Add butter and garlic to a small dish and microwave until melted, about 30 seconds. Trim ends off mushrooms with a small knife and place cap side down in skillet or baking dish.

3. Drizzle each cap with garlic butter, taking care to get garlic on the mushroom rather than the skillet or baking dish, then season tops with salt and pepper.

Directions: 1. In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, sugar and 3/4 cup water over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.

2. Stir in cranberries and bring to a boil; reduce heat and let simmer until sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes.

3. Let cool completely before serving.

Source: DamnDelicious.net

4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender, basting mushrooms with butter in the bottom of the skillet halfway through.

Source: IowaGirlEats.com

Thanksgiving Side Dishes.indd 3

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holiday guide

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Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms Ann Allen Tree Farm & Shop 114 Daum Road Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-786-9277 Barclay’s Christmas Tree Farm 35 Orchardside Drive Cranbury, NJ 08512 609-799-1855 Bullock Farms 83 Emleys Hill Road Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609-758-8726 Cherryville Farms 352 Quakertown Road Pittstown, NJ 08867 908-806-4580 Giamarese Farm 155 Fresh Ponds Rd East Brunswick, NJ 08816 732-821-9494 Habiak Farms 315 Deans Rhode Hall Rd. South Brunswick Township, NJ 08810 732-287-2737

For more information about these farms and to check for opening dates, visit siparent.com.

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Keris Tree Farm 848 Route 524 Allentown, NJ 08501 609-259-0720 Lantier Tree Farm 163 Dey Grove Road Englishtown, NJ 08831 732-446-9799

Lazy Susan Tree Farm 184 Sharon Road Robbinsville, NJ 08691 609-208-0784 McLaughlin Tree Farm 1312 Old York Road Robbinsville, NJ 08691 609-259-8122 Meadow View Farms 60 Birdsall Road Farmingdale, NJ 07727 732-938-7181 Patterson Greenhouses 636 Adelphia Road Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-5271 Simonson Farms 118-260 Dey Road Cranbury, NJ 08560 609-730-1110 The Evergreen Farm 4 Bass Lane Lebanon, NJ 08833 908-236-9550 Westhaven Farm Inc. 725 Route 524 Allentown, NJ 08501 609-259-2186 Woodsedge Tree Farm 118 Beechwood Road Belvidere, NJ 07823 908-763-9920 Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm 249 County Road 519 Belvidere, NJ 07823 908-475-4508

November 2016

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10/26/16 2:07 PM

Holiday Fairs Saturday, November 5 New Dorp Moravian Church 2205 Richmond Road 18-351-0090 • 10am-4pm The Eger Foundation 140 Meisner Avenue 718-989-3125 • 9am-4pm Friday, November 11 The Church of Saint Andrew 40 Old Mill Rd. 718-351-0900 • 10am-6pm Saturday, November 12 Holy Child Preschool 4747 Amboy Road 718-356-5159 • 9:30am-5pm The Church of Saint Andrew 40 Old Mill Rd. 718-351-0900 • 11am-6:30pm Fall Fair at Olivet Presbyterian Church 97 Myrtle Avenue (Broadway entrance) 917-545-1228 • 9am-4pm Thursday, November 17 CSI HS PTA 100 Essex Drive 718-370-6900 • 9am-3pm

Are you hosting a Holiday Fair?

Email jcintron@siparent.com and we will add it to our Holiday Fairs list at siparent.com!

St. Joseph – St. Thomas 50 Maguire Avenue 718-356-0452 • 3pm-9pm Staten Island Council for Animal Welfare 693 Jewett Ave (Immanual Union Church) 718-948-5623 • 10am-4pm St. Rita School 30 Wellbrook Avenue 718-761-2504 • 12-6pm Great Kills Moravian Church 62 Hillside Terrace 718-317-7788 • 10am-4pm Saint Peter & St. Paul 129 Clinton Avenue 718-447-6362 • 10am-4pm Our Lady Queen of Peace 63 Cloister Place 718-351-0370 • 10am-6pm P.S. 9 1055 Targee Street 718-876-4610 • 9am-3pm Sunday, November 20 Blessed Sacrament 830 Delafield Avenue 718-442-3090 • Time TBA

Friday, November 18 Blessed Sacrament 830 Delafield Avenue 718-442-3090 • Time TBA

St. Ann’s 125 Cromwell Avenue 718-351-4343 • 9am-4pm

St. Joseph – St. Thomas 50 Maguire Avenue 718-356-0452 • 3pm-9pm

St. Joseph – St. Thomas 50 Maguire Avenue 718-356-0452 •10am-5pm

St. Adalbert 355 Morningstar Road 718-442-2020 • 8am-8pm

St. Rita School 30 Wellbrook Avenue 718-761-2504 • 9-3pm

St. Ann’s 125 Cromwell Avenue 718-351-4343 • 6pm

Saturday, November 26 Alice Austen House 2 Hylan Boulevard 718-816-4506 • 11am-5pm

Saturday, November 19 Blessed Sacrament 830 Delafield Avenue 718-442-3090 • Time TBA

tree farms 2016.indd 3

Sunday, November 27 Alice Austen House 2 Hylan Boulevard 718-816-4506 • 11am-5pm

Check next month’s issue for December’s Holiday Fair listings.

More holiday fairs, as well as additional information on these fairs, are listed on siparent.com/2016-holiday-fairs-in-staten-island

november 2016

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33 10/27/16 11:35 AM

holiday guide: gift giveway

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Monster Jam Grave Digger Quad $229 Ages 3-7

Pewi Elite

$59.99 Ages 9-36 months

Bad Moms Blue Ray Combo Pack Three Winners $34.98 each $104.98 prize total Rated R

Reptools Remote Controlled Ty Rux $49.99 Ages 4+

T-fal Electric Pressure Cooker $99.99

Kurio Watch $59.99 Ages 6-12

Thinkfun Board Game Bundle:

Clue Master $12.99 Ages 8+ • Yoga Spinner $14.99 Ages 5+ Balance Beans $17.99 Ages 5+ $45.97 prize total

Discovery Kids 50mm Telescope $59.99 Ages 8+

34 Holiday Gift Guide.indd 1

November 2016

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KRUPS 12-Cup Thermal

Bluebee Pals Soft Learning Toys $64.99 Recommended for children with special needs

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3-Month Subscription to Kidstir Cooking Kits $47.85

Young Adult Book Series:

Lunar Chronicles Boxed Set $58 The Six of Crows Duology Boxed Set $22 $80 prize total Ages 12-17

Slingbox M2 $99

Turbo Runner $49.95 Ages 8+

Kurio Xtreme 2 Special Edition $99.99 Ages 3+

Svan Dessert Tower $39.99 Ages 3+

Discovery Kids Foldable Tent $49.99 Ages 4+

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over $1,300 in Prizes!

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cover story

Holidays in Staten Island:

deck the halls -or-

Bah Humbug!

With promotions starting as early as September and continuing with post-holiday sales, retailers are offering consumers plenty of opportunity to spend more than ever on holiday gifts.

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holidays in Staten Island.indd 2

10/27/16 11:44 AM

Staten Island parents are divided in the unofficial debate over the appropriate timing of the holiday shopping season. Some, like Priscilla Carles-Glantz of Port Richmond, welcome early holiday shopping because it avoids last-minute pressure and offers convenience, availability and selection, and promotes an overall positive atmosphere.

“Why shouldn’t we have more of a season with so much positivity around,” she said as she shopped at the Staten Island Mall on Labor Day with her 19-year-old daughter Katie.

She said retail therapy spreads holiday cheer.

“You can say it’s commercialized, but we are in a society right now where there is so much stress in our world that to have a little merriment – to have Santa here and to have a Menorah there – I think it’s wonderful,” Mrs. CarlesGlantz, who is from an interfaith family, explained.

As a busy mom of three, Mitzi Rivera of South Beach prefers to start shopping in October when her kids are back to school.

“When the holidays come, you don’t have time,” she said as she pushed her seven-month-old daughter through the mall recently while her 13-year-old and 11-year-old were at home.

Meanwhile, other parents feel rushed and overwhelmed by the thought of Christmas shopping before the arrival of the two other major holidays, they said.

Fran Molinari of New Dorp feels the commercialism of the holiday season bombards parents too early – she prefers to shop closer to the start of each holiday season.

“I only have one child, but I think for people with more than one it’s got to be hard,” she said as she shopped with her five-year-old daughter.

She is among the more traditional parents who like to celebrate each holiday as it arrives.

Yolaina Condreras of Dongan Hills refuses to shop for Christmas right after Labor Day while the weather is still warm. Shopping after Thanksgiving suits her needs. “I think everything starts to early,” she said with her tween daughter in tow.

The Staten Island Mall officially transitions into holiday mode on November 1, according to general manager Jim Easley.

“We like to get out ahead of the curve,” he told Staten Island Parent.

Even though customers snarl about it starting too early year after year, he said Chicago-based mall owner, General Growth Properties, wants to accommodate early bird shoppers or those planning to be out of town for the holidays.

“Christmas is a fun time of the year,” Easley said. “We are hoping for a great holiday season and we hope to get people [to shop] as early as possible.”

The Dasaros of Great Kills are among those who snub the idea of Christmas shopping months in advance – they start December 1 and do some Internet shopping to avoid feeling too frazzled by the advanced retail frenzy.

“You get some people who go Christmas shopping in July and they are done in October,” Stefanie Dasaro said, with her five-year-old son and 18-month-old daughter by her side at the mall.

“You start panicking earlier than you have to because you start seeing everything out, meanwhile, you have four months to do it,” she added.

Her husband, Mike, agrees retailers push the holiday season way too early.

“With kids it’s the worst because you don’t know their sizes,” especially with unexpected growth spurts, he explained.

He says the couple considers shopping on Black Friday, but reconsiders that morning due to the excessive crowds.

Whether they shop early or later in the season, the parents we spoke with said they generally let Grandma and Grandpa purchase the gifts of their choice.

Ms. Rivera maintains a general rule – she buys the toys, while her family buys clothes. Ms. Condreras said her family typically forgoes her suggestions and buys her daughter what they want and can afford.

Mrs. Molinari recommends some gift items now that her daughter is a little older, but mostly lets her family play Santa. “I like people to have fun with it, so I don’t push too much,” she said.

Meanwhile, other families have the best of both worlds – families who are more practical and over the top.

Mrs. Dasaro’s parents make monetary deposits in her kids’ bank accounts, while her husband’s parents are more extravagant.

“Literally, you go there and you’re buried,” she said.

“His family is all about the excitement,” which includes giant piles of gifts, Mrs. Dasaro said.

But, she won’t limit her in-laws because she wants to preserve the joy of Christmas – even if that means Grandma and Grandpa started shopping in July to do so.

“It’s got to be all about ‘Santa Claus’ … they tell us to bring both cars,” Dasaro noted.

While it may be too rushed for some, Mrs. Carles-Glantz said the early holiday season contributes to the nation’s economic health and promotes family bonding.

“We are kind of in a recession right now, so it helps out the stores as well,” she said. “The longer it goes on the better.”

“I think it’s a positive thing for the economy, socially, and family-wise,” Mrs. Carles-Glantz added.

By Christine Albano, a Staten Island-based freelance writer and mother of three who can frequently be found at the mall on Christmas Eve scrambling for last-minute gifts.

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With so many great technology choices, kids have plenty of online options to keep them busy, whether for entertainment or academic research. However, from gaming consoles to smartphones to laptops, any WiFi device in a home with a web browser, even a visiting friend’s computer, can be used to access content that parents do not want their children viewing.

Here are some great tips for keeping kids safe online all year long.

1. Talk with your kids! The dangers of the Internet are very real, but arming your kids with knowledge can be one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal. These should be very age-appropriate discussions. For instance, for a 5-year old you can give instructions as simple as, “If you see someone without their clothes on, turn the computer or device off immediately and come get mom or dad.” Or, “If you see someone being mean to someone else, make sure you show a grown up.” As your kids get older, the discussion can change accordingly. But starting the discussions early is important. You can choose - you can teach your kids - or else the Internet can teach them!

5 tips to safeguard kids’ digital world

2. Install filtering at the network level. A step up from installing filtering software on individual devices, parents can now manage everything connected to their home WiFi so they don’t have to worry about inappropriate content leaking through.

3. Make sure that Internet usage is done in the open. Make sure that family computers are located in high traffic areas. Make sure that laptops and tablets are not used in bedrooms or private parts of the house. This keeps kids’ online activities open for discussion and much easier to keep an eye on.

Parents know there are some parts of the Internet they don’t want kids exploring Many parents struggle with the fine line of being a helicopter parent versus giving their children freedom to explore the benefits of the Internet.

But, they have reason to be anxious. In one study widely cited in the media, 42% of Internet users ages 10 to 17 said they viewed porn online in the past 12 months. And 66% of kids who said they saw porn online said they saw it accidentally, according to a 2007 study by the University of New Hampshire. Pornography is just one concern. There are hundreds of thousands of opportunities for children to encounter age-inappropriate content online.

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4. If chores aren’t completed, change your WiFi key and don’t give it to the kids until those chores are done! With most routers, this is a very simple task that can be done in a few minutes and can be a very effective way to motivate kid to get chores or homework or whatever finished.

5. Make sure you have all of your kid’s social media passwords and check their social media accounts regularly. If kids know you are looking at what they are doing on the different social media platforms, they will be much less likely to be talking to people they shouldn’t, or taking part of cyberbullying or other behaviors that they know you wouldn’t approve of. This is a digital world now - so be a part of their digital lives!

Provided by Spencer Thomason, CEO of Clean Router, www.cleanrouter.com

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verbal messages that they are being bullied. Factors involved are usually fears associated with feeling judged, rejected, being a “snitch,” and/or being misunderstood, all of which make matters worse for themselves and leads to feelings of isolation and a lack of support. This is why it is so important that parents and educators are aware of the less subtle signs that a child is being bullied or is bullying others.

Signs of being bullied:

• Avoiding school or extracurricular activities that were once enjoyed; arriving home unusually late or early (by avoiding regular routes); no longer wanting to ride on the school bus • Decreased/withdrawn time spent with friends; lack of friends • Increase in anxiety/worry; appearing stressed; trouble sleeping, thus appearing more tired than usual; decrease in appetite • Sudden decrease in academic performance • Complaints of physical ailments (i.e. headaches, stomach aches); unexplained injuries • Low self-esteem • Loss of personal items

Signs of bullying others:

• Physically or verbally aggressive behavior; appearing angry or edgy • Lack of empathy • Defiant, impulsive and insistence on getting her way • Low self-esteem

how to stop the bully and spot the bullied parents need to know the signs

It is important for adults to understand and recognize if a child shows signs of being a bully, or signs of being bullied, and how to appropriately intervene. But understanding the outward behavior and/or often-implied signals associated with either bullying or being bullied can be difficult and frustrating for parents, teachers, caregivers, etc. Ideally, a child being bullied or would share his/her concerns openly, but, too often, this is not the case.

Bullying in schools often takes place in unsupervised locations; such as bathrooms, busy hallways, lunchrooms, and school buses. The victim may feel that even if he speaks up, nothing may be done to help. This is why it is important for schools and parents to have policies in place and frequent discussions regarding bullying and its consequences. Discussions should include the definition of bullying and the difference between discussing/ reporting an incident, vs. “getting someone in trouble,” or “tattling.”

While both parents and educators set goals to create safe spaces for children to grow and feel comfortable, many children do not send direct,

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Bullies are, more often than not, products of their own environment. For example, if a child is being bullied at home by another family member, he may repeat this behavior in school.

The child may also adopt the negative assumption that aggressive behavior or language will lead to getting her way, resulting in feelings of power. This is a negative reward (reinforcing the negative behavior). It is important to be aware of how we conduct conversations in the home. Those young ears are always listening and learning from example. Effective communication skills/ problem solving skills are pertinent to reducing fear or intimidation.

Effective family communication means allowing all members of the family to express their emotions appropriately and be heard.

As a parent or teacher, it is important to recognize inappropriate behavior and set limits as to what is acceptable and unacceptable.

Teach children about bullying at a young age and help them understand that they are accountable for their actions as they grow and learn. Challenge them to think critically about the act of bullying and how they can problem-solve effectively, instead of acting on impulse.

The parent/teacher should always aim to be a positive role model in the home and at school. Try to create safe spaces by promoting self-esteem and reassuring the child that you will always listen and help. Role-play scenarios and discuss conflict resolution skills. Discuss how they can diffuse a situation and walk away. Talk about how to be inclusive with other peers.

If you are concerned or suspect your child is being bullied, or is bullying others, either in school or in the community, speak with school teachers, administrators, and mental health professionals. Encourage your child to confide in a trusted adult or a mental health professional. Remember that “consistency is key” and assure your child that there is always someone willing to listen and help.

By Lori Faicco, LMHC-licensed mental health counselor, Staten Island Mental Health Society, Inc.

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Michael Reilly

Many Staten Islanders turn to Community Education Council 31 President Michael Reilly for information on community issues via Facebook. Now you can read about the trending topics every month here in Mike’s column.

DRIVING HIGH: An Increasing Concern

With the rampant opiate abuse and addiction raging through Staten Island and the region, many are concerned about the increase of people driving under the influence of drugs. Police Officers can arrest drivers when there is probable cause to believe the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Unfortunately, it is much more difficult to establish probable cause for driving under the influence of drugs as opposed to alcohol.

Alcohol often has an odor and other indicators like red eyes, slurred speech, and a flush face. Drug driving signs can be less obvious, especially if there is a collision involved that may alter a driver’s mental state and coordination. The goal is to fully prosecute offenders but unfortunately evidence in drug driving cases is all too often scarce. There is a program administered by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee that certifies Police Officers as Drug Recognition Experts (DRE).

Police Officers trained and certified as Drug Recognition Experts can identify drivers who are driving under the influence of drugs and provide the necessary corroboration through their training and experience to establish probable cause for arrest. A certified DRE Officer can also provide expert witness testimony at trial to ensure the case has the necessary support to proceed in court.

Greater Resources and Training Needed

According to the state’s list, as of January 2016, there are only eight NYPD Police Officers certified as Drug Recognition Experts throughout New York City. The list further indicates that only one of those eight Police Officers is assigned to Richmond County (Staten Island)

Increasing the officers certified in the DRE program will also increase the ability to identify individuals who may need assistance with addiction. It can lead to referrals through public contact.

Learn more about the Drug Recognition Expert program and other traffic safety programs here: http:// safeny.ny.gov/DRE/ The latest incidents involving drug related vehicle crashes across Staten Island demonstrates the need for increasing the number of Police Officers trained as Drug Recognition Experts.

Take Action

We need a community effort to make this happen.

Please consider emailing our elected officials listed below and ask them to support increasing the number of Drug Recognition Experts on Staten Island.

Staten Island can benefit greatly when our Police Officers have the necessary tools and training to remove these dangerous drivers from our roads.

Here are Staten Island elected representative’s email contact information:

Have a question regarding education or quality of life on Staten Island?

Let us know and Mike may address your concern in the next issue.

Visit siparent.com/mikereilly to submit your request.

Staten Island Borough President James Oddo Oddo@statenislandusa.com NYC Council Members Debra Rose DRose@council.nyc.gov Steve Matteo SMatteo@council.nyc.gov Joseph Borelli JBorelli@council.nyc.gov

I believe we need to dramatically increase the number of Police Officers trained as Drug Recognition Experts (DRE) in the NYPD. This is a crucial piece missing in the current efforts to make our roads safer.

NYS Senators Andrew Lanza: Lanza@nysenate.gov Diane Savino: Savino@nysenate.gov

Staten Island would be an excellent place to establish a pilot program to train and certify additional Police Officers as Drug Recognition Experts in all four precincts to address this increasing trend of Driving High. Increasing the number of DRE will also help identify those with drug dependency and lead to a treatment referral.

NYS Assembly Members Michael Cusick: CusickM@nyassembly.gov Matthew Titone: TitoneM@nyassembly.gov Nicole Malliotakis: MalliotakisN@nyassembly.gov Ronald Castorina: Castorinar@nyassembly.gov

DRE training will also help outreach into schools since Precinct Officers are visiting schools across Staten Island. It will add a critical component to the conversation.

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welcome to our newest islanders!

Dominic Rocco Ozone October 21, 2016 6 pounds, 7 ounces Parents: Ryan & Jennifer

are teething tablets safe?

There’s no easy way to soothe a cranky, teething baby. For parents who rely on teething tablets or gels, it just got even more difficult.

Recent warnings from the FDA indicate homeopathic teething tablets and gels may be to blame for the deaths of ten children as well as adverse side affects in 400 others. According to the FDA, they may cause fever seizures, difficulty breathing, lethargy, excessive sleepiness, muscle weakness, skin flushing, constipation, difficulty urinating, or agitation. There is currently no proven health benefit to the homeopathic tablets and gels, and many doctors are urging parents to manage their baby’s teething with safer remedies.

Angelina Rose Ozone October 21, 2016 6 pounds, 1 ounce Parents: Ryan & Jennifer Isabella Anne Favuzza February 26, 2016 7 pounds Parents: Joe & Nicole

The popular homeopathic teething tablet and gel maker Hyland’s has chosen to stop selling in the U.S., but continues to deny claims that their products may pose a risk to children who ingest them.

Other popular brands include baby Orajel and Anbesol Baby. While the products have not been officially recalled, several major drugstores have pulled them from the shelves.

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Looking for some natural alternatives? Here are a few safer ways to soothe those sore gums: • Freeze wet washcloths and let baby chew away

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• Ice a baby bottle (by filling the bottle with water and placing it upside down in freezer, then give baby the frozen nipple)

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holiday blues

By Dr. Pankaj Patel, Chairman of Department of Psychiatry, Richmond University Medical Center

The holiday season, which begins with Thanksgiving and stretches through to New Year’s Day, can often stir up feelings of anxiety, stress, loneliness, failure, and overall depression for some. Society tends to refer to these feelings as the “holiday blues.”

However, these Grinch-like symptoms can be real indicators of an underlying anxiety or depression.

The holiday blues are actually more common than you think. With the added stress of the approaching holidays and the pressure of having to shop, prepare meals, and decorate your home, your personal needs take a backseat. Many people do not make time for daily exercise or any down time to relax, causing them to slip into depression and associate the holiday season in a negative way.

• Reach out to your friends and family. If you’re feeling lonely or sad, reach out to the ones who matter the most and they’ll be able to help you enjoy the cheerfulness of the season. If the holidays make you long for the ones who are no longer with us, try talking about it. Writing During the winter, people who are susdown your feelings in a holiday card or tellceptible to the holiday blues may actually be ing stories about past family members can suffering from seasonal affective disorder help warm your heart and put your mind at (SAD). Seasonal affecease. Your mental tive disorder is a form of health is importdepression that occurs as Although the holiday season ant during this the seasons change from high-pressure seaisn’t all Fa-La-La for the warm to cold and the son; take the time days grow shorter. There many people suffering from to recognize your is no specific test that feelings and react in seasonal affective disorder can diagnosis a patient a positive manner. with seasonal affective (SAD), there are several disorder, but there are • Do someeffective ways to kick the many symptoms, includthing for someholiday blues. ing fatigue, depression, one else. The trouble concentrating, holidays, no matter poor sleep, overeating, body aches, loss which you celebrate, are a time of giving. of sex drive, irritability, crying spells, and Spending an afternoon at a soup kitchen or weight gain. These symptoms tend to presdonating toys to underprivileged children ent themselves during the fall and intensify might take your mind off your own sadness. during the darker, colder months.

Bringing a smile to someone else’s face that For people suffering from this disorder, daily exposure to bright, even florescent, lights is very important. If temporarily relocating to a warmer, sunnier location for the cold months is possible, take advantage of it! Living in a climate that provides constant sunshine and warmth can help reduce symptoms and get you back on track. If relocation is simply not an option, talk to your doctor about daily phototherapy or light treatment.

If you’re searching for other ways to kick the blues, try one of these methods for your holiday season:

46 ask the doctor2.indd 1

• Keep your expectations for the holidays manageable. Don’t overexert yourself or spread yourself too thin. It’s okay to say “no” to cooking that additional dish or waste too much time perfecting your giftwrapping skills. Prioritize what you have to get done and make an ordered list to keep you on track. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help! Asking your loved ones to help with holiday chores can decrease your stress levels and allow you to spend time with them.

truly is in need will bring a similar smile to yours. The feeling of knowing that you helped someone and made his or her lives a bit happier can have the same affect on yours.

• Try something new. Whether it’s a new exercise technique, eating healthier foods, or an addition to your bedtime routine, try something new. Asking a loved one to join and support you in trying something new can be an additional way to fight against your feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression.

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column / growing up online

charity begins at school

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She is co-author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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As the year draws to a close, many families count their for a specific classroom or they can browse by what’s reblessings and realize they have more than enough. And quested or greatest need. More than 70% of the projects on the site are funded and teachers often post photos or then they look for a way to share. There are, of course, have students write thank you notes to donors. (donorplenty of opportunities for giving that involve nothing schoose.org) more than writing a check. Charities and faith communiKids in Need Foundation has been distributing school ties often have end-of-year campaigns, and most parents supplies to kids since 1995. They run 38 Resource Cenhave their favorite causes. ters where teachers and children in under-served school For children, however, sending a check—even one districts can get much-needed supplies. They also provide that they’ve saved or earned money for—is pretty abstract. They are more likely to connect with the spirit of replacement supplies to children in areas that have been generosity when they are responsible for giving someimpacted by natural disasters. (KINF.org) Supply Our Schools allows teachers in low-income thing tangible to people they can identify with, especially school districts to apply for classroom supplies. Once you other children.

In particular, kids understand school and can easiregister on the site, you can see wish lists from teachers ly imagine how difficult it would be if they didn’t have in districts in which a high percentage of the kids are elthe supplies they need to get through the day. Teachers igible for free or reduced lunches. Then you can chip in to purchase specific supplies such as boxes of pencils or understand this too, of course, and that’s why so many playground balls. (supplyourschools.org) of them spend their own money to be sure students In addition to these programs, which fund a wide vahave crayons and notebooks or even shoes and coats.

AdoptAClassroom.org estimates that 60% of school riety of supplies, several projects focus on specific kinds of equipment and supplies. If one of your children has a supplies are purchased by teachers because school district special interest in reading, science, technology, or music budgets are inadequate.

While there are many organizations on Staten Island education, these programs will allow them to support others who are pursuing dreams in that hold backpack drives for these fields. school supplies at the beginning Books. Books for Africa colof the school year, you may also lects and ships books with the want to expand your family’s vi“...donations that help other chilsion to encompass less affluent goal of ending the “book famschool districts. Because many ine” in African schools. They dren learn are a tangible way of accept textbooks, reference American schools are funded by showing your kids that you value books and other educational property taxes, there are tremendous discrepancies in per pupil materials in addition to fiction both generosity and education.” spending between and within and non-fiction books that are states, according to reports from less than ten years old. (booksforafrica.org) the Rutgers Graduate School of Scientific research. ExperEducation (schoolfundingfairness.org). As a result, children who most need an educaiment.com provides funds for university level research. tion sometimes get short-changed.

Students who have an interest in science can browse the The websites below help connect families with research topics in everything from ecology and economics to chemistry and neuroscience. Projects are reviewed schools, classrooms, and individual students who will really benefit from what they give. Try choosing one and for quality, and all of the money goes to the researchvisiting it as a family. Scrolling together through the reers. (experiment.com) Technology. The National Cristina Foundation makes quests will, at the very least, give children get a clear idea connections between families with technology they no of how they can help kids like them and may also make them appreciate things they take for granted in their own longer need and educational organizations that would schools. be glad to have it. If you type your zip code into their Adopt A Classrom. Teachers post photos and denon-profit locator, you’ll get extensive and detailed wish scriptions of specific materials they would like to purlists from organizations in your community, particularly chase for their students. You can find and fund a particular those that serve students with special needs. (cristina.org) Music.

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation promotes classroom or you can donate to schools that need the most music education by donating new and refurbished inhelp. Teachers get credits to purchase books, games and struments to schools, music programs and individual stuother educational materials through corporate partners. dents. If you send them a gently used instrument that’s no (adoptaclassroom.org) Class Wish. Donors can search schools by zip longer being played, they will get it into the hands of an code. Teachers list requests for a wide range of school aspiring young musician. (mhopus.org) supplies including basics like paper and pencils, technolOf course, education has no season. So if one of these ogy, art supplies, musical instruments, books, magazines, projects appeals to your children, you may want to make library resources or scientific equipment, and even sports a donation to celebrate a birthday or even an especially and playground equipment. (classwish.org) good report card. Whatever the reason, donations that Donors Choose. Founded in 2000 by social studies help other children learn are a tangible way of showing teachers from the Bronx, Donors Choose has won attenyour kids that you value both generosity and education. And those are lessons worth learning. tion from celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Stephen Colbert. Teachers can request funds for anything from extra pencils to scientific equipment. Donors can look

10/26/16 2:42 PM

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column / dear teacher Fidgeting in Class Can Be Helpful

ask questions. get answers!

Question: My child is often very restless. The teacher lets him fidget in class. Does this distract from his learning? - Wondering Answer: Fidgeting involves using a sense other than the sense that is required to accomplish the task at hand. The extra mindless activities a student does while working on the primary task is fidgeting. Fortunately, you do not have to be too concerned that it is distracting your child from getting his schoolwork done in the classroom.

You might not realize that deliberate fidgeting allows the child to self-regulate restlessness in a controlled, structured way. It is good that the teacher understands the importance for your child to be able to fidget in the classroom. This is especially important for ADHD children.

Here are some positive classroom fidgeting activities that can reduce restlessness in children. You may suggest to your son that he employ some of them while doing homework: Getting up and moving around.

Doodling.

Underlining while reading.

Squeezing toys helps focus the child who is required to listen, talk or think of a tough answer. This definitely helps with restless hands.

Plugging in an MP3 player and listening to music.

Chewing gum.

Learning Disability Services

©Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2016 Distributed by King Features Syndicate

50 dear teacher2.indd 1

Pros & Cons of Cell Phones at School

Question: Our school lets students have cellphones. My instincts tell me they interfere with learning. Am I right? - Wondering Answer: This definitely is a hot topic being debated by educators. There are definite cons that are easy to see: 1. At schools where students have phones, test scores are improved when the phones are banned.

2. Phones are a distraction in the classroom with messages, notifications and tweets coming through.

3. They widen the gap between advantaged and disadvantaged students.

4. Phones require additional policing and enforcing rules about when and where they can or can’t be used.

5. Students may be viewing inappropriate materials.

Conversely, there are also pros to consider: 1. Phones may let teachers integrate technology into the curriculum.

2. They can be used as a calculator in math class.

3. Parents can be in touch with their children.

4. Cellphones can open the technology door for classrooms that have no technology.

5. Phones are helpful in case of emergencies.

6. They are a learning aid, helping students quickly look up facts.

7. Phones can serve as memory aids letting students use the camera to take pictures of assignments on Parents should the board or other information. send questions to 8. Features such as caldearteacher@dearteacher.com endars and voice notes and access to video can be helpor ask them on the ful classroom aids.

Question: What should parents do after a school agrees that their child has a learning disability and is columnists’ website at eligible for services? - Next www.dearteacher.com.

Step Right Grade to Focus on Careers Answer: The special education process is complicated at best. So the first Question: When is the right age for children to step parents should make is to educate themselves begin focusing on a career? The counselors at our on federal and state laws and regulations concernchildren’s middle school have a program to help the ing special education services. A good source for students become more aware of the career choicthis information is the Parent Training and Informaes available to them. The eighth-graders are even tion Center (PTI) in their home state. The centers being asked to identify a career path so they can do have different names in each state. take electives to bolster their interests. This seems You can easily find the one in your state by visitawfully early to me, as so many college freshmen ing the Center for Parent Information and Resourcscarcely have an idea of what they would like to be. es online at parentcenterhub.org. Many states also What do you think? - Career Decisions have Community Resource Centers (CRC) that Answer: For a long time, middle-schools have largely provide the same services but focus more had the exploration of careers as part of their curon helping parents with low incomes or limited Enriculum. This is not new. The idea is sound. It lets glish proficiency. children in middle school see the vast range of caBoth PTI and CRC centers will provide parents reer options that exist. And it has the added benefit with information on the phone or through emails of letting them see the level of education required and websites. They are staffed with knowledgeable for different careers and can help them make better people. Many really understand the process of getacademic decisions in high school. ting the right help for children with learning disabilFurthermore, the earlier children explore caities, as they often have children with disabilities. reers, the longer they have to explore a variety of These centers often have workshops, confercareers and narrow their choices. In addition, it may ences and seminars for parents. They also may influence students who are likely to drop out to stay publish newsletters. Most of their services are free. in school in order to gain the training needed for a However, parents should ask if there are costs for specific career. the services that they are seeking.

November 2016

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column / good sports

preventing and dealing with sports injuries

Joe LoVerde has been coaching youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years. He’s also a longtime newspaper editor and sportswriter.

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We all have heard the horror stories about a 9-year-old going into cardiac arrest after being hit in the chest by a line drive, or a 12-year-old suffering an asthma attack on the soccer field, or a football player collapsing at practice on a hot day.

Yes, on rare occasions, children are going to get hurt, or worse, playing sports.

But there are ways to lessen the chance for injury, as well as options for limiting the severity when one does occur.

So what should parents do to allow their children to reap the benefits of sports while limiting the chance they will suffer a serious injury, or worse?

Have your child undergo a Pre-Participation Evaluation

at Staten Island Tech when one of his 16-year-old schoolmates died from an asthma attack while participating in sports.

“I was a sophomore in high school when that happened and it changed my life,” Dr. Barbara said during the seminar.

Dr. Barbara said that sites of organized athletic events should be prepared to deal with sudden cardiac arrests and reactions from allergies, asthma and heat.

A defibrillator should be at all athletic event locations, if possible, and parents of children with serious allergies to things like insect bites and food should make sure they are carrying their epinephrine auto injector, better known as an EpiPen. If a child suddenly seems to be acting oddly or “out of it” on the field, he or she could be suffering from heat stroke and needs to be attended to immediately.

Dr. Barbara also reminded everyone not to hesitate to call 911 and to explain what the need is.

A PPE is a sports physical not intended to replace the usual medical exam. But Dr. Yvonne Guinta, Chief of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Staten Island University Hospital North, said that it would be wise for parents to Injuries will request a PPE for their occur A Pre-Participation child before he or she Dr. John Evaluation exam will screen plays a sport.

Reilly, Chief of The exam would Orthopedics at an athlete for unrestricted or indicate whether a SIUH, said that if partial sports play. young athlete should there is one thing have “unrestricted” that hasn’t changed clearance to play any during his 35 years sport, or whether that on the sidelines child should be limited at Staten Island to partial clearance. professional, collegiate and high school Speaking during the Youth Sports Injury sporting events, it’s that athletes will get and Prevention Seminar offered by the injured. But the knowledge of how to hospital’s Division of Trauma in September, treat those injuries has drastically changed Dr. Guinta said, “If an abnormality is found, during that time, as has the role of the a child might be barred from taking part in orthopedic surgeon. an activity like football but, perhaps, not Youth coaches, Dr. Reilly said, have a bowling.” responsibility to not only know how to have Dr. Guinta noted that 2,000 individuals their athletes develop skills and strategies, under the age of 25 die from cardiac arrest but also need to be aware of their athletes’ every year, and that the typical physical medical issues. Physical conditioning, he exam might not disclose signs a child was said, should also be part of the coach’s at risk. If your child experiences dizziness, program for his players. chest pain or a racing heart while playing He also noted the importance of using sports, if he or she passes out, or if the child the suitable equipment. Football players, for has a blood relative who died a sudden instance should use a helmet no older than death before age 50, that child is a candidate 10 years old, as well as pads, cleats and a to receive a PPE. mouth guard.

Supplies such as water, ice, bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptics and medical Have an emergency action plan gloves, and orthopedic basics such as Dr. Paul Barbara, SIUH North’s splints, tape and Ace wraps, should be Associate Medical Director of Emergency available at games and practices.

Medical Services, was a soccer player

10/26/16 2:42 PM

birthday club

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Join S.I. Parent Magazine’s Birthday Club!

Log on to www.siparent.com NOVEMBER 1 Ella Doyle Alyssa Sanders Frances Tagliaferro Victoria Armstrong Kate Ascencio Debbie Doctor Lisa Forman Olivia Pierce Sebastian Popinara Ilirian Popinara Noah Robert Lassalle Olivia Pierce Travis Ruiz Christopher Figueroa NOVEMBER 2 Luciano Rammairone Tia Wright Cameron Sherman George Harris Isabella Gaytan Ava Gonzalez Gabriella Siminson Salvatore Todaro Gianna Favorito Sarah Gambino Gianna-Jade Favorito Gabriella Siminson NOVEMBER 3 Michelle Gitlin Christopher Marrazzo Grace Harris Samuel Johnson Clarissa Mia Moncayo Kebar Finley Jonathon Konviser Connor McCulloch Liazia Tolbert-Francis NOVEMBER 4 Gina Rammairone Peter Capasso III Danielle Hom Jessica Johnson Daniel Guaragno Milena Scalzo Kayla Marie Becker Lea Marie Scelzo Matthew Luele Brayden Ditre NOVEMBER 5 Dominic Ditre Anthony Griffin Anthony Sigona Jailynn Jalca

Ryan Daich Alyssa Cannizzaro Shahmir Vanees Gwen Samarasekera NOVEMBER 6 Shruti Sharma Shayna Gonzalez Alison Kate Katz Christopher Lombardi Jennie Long Jenna Quinn Julianna Munno Giavanna Maria Vicinanza Michelle Hernandez Fabio Fonseca Vincent Saleh NOVEMBER 7 Madison Isabella Risi Matthew DiBuono Courtney Henrich Stefon Webb Amani Golden Elena Yuile Tayvon Nelson NOVEMBER 8 Frank Matthew Biassi Bharat Sharma Shane Ravi Cahill Mohamed Abdelhamid Amira Jahaj Angela Sierra NOVEMBER 9 Iris Kessler Nicole Smith Juliet Paige Noguera Justin Kessler Daniella Gomes Joseph Lombardi Eva Fatto Ashley Alfano Avery Ortega NOVEMBER 10 Victoria Paterno Keysean Faulkner Chris Gargiulo Carmela Gioffre Christopher Di Paola Joshua Zucconi Angelina Marie Singh Patrick Hurley

NOVEMBER 11

Joseph Bernstein Seema Silveman Sara Bellini Samuel Blakely Aidan Reeves Jayden Reeves Jenna Mia Zverev Michelle Gordon Andrew Fry Carlos Zurita NOVEMBER 12 Danielle Johnstone Giana Marcisella Deshauna Kelly Landon Jay Levine TerriAnn Eadicicco Heather Wallace Olivia Hernandez Paul Ferrannini Kiana Yard NOVEMBER 13 Michelle Levy Isabel Weiner Joshua I. Torres Daniel Waschitz Jevonne Jackson Ashley Lucchese Robert Belajonas Adrianna Cinquemani NOVEMBER 14 Philip Clinton Briana Isaac Callie Quinn Kaiden Beasly Anthony Grillo Anthony Colon Jr. Alyssa Latchman Sophie Roccanova NOVEMBER 15 Jordan Faris Pernice Victor Johnson Matthew Platto Matthew Peckerman Joseph Luca Mia Rocha Samantha Tabb Andrew Tabb Elena Gonzalez Anthony Ameno Joseph Bruzon NOVEMBER 16 Anthony Zito John DePetro Jacqueline Sutera

Hayley Mia Bond James Tusa Antonio Padau Isaiah Vanterpool Marc Gambaro Michael Evan Zverev Anthony Aliotta Regginae Jordan Giovanni Tarsio NOVEMBER 17 Nicholas Cordona Danielle Dinten Marielle Abbott C. J. Leonardo Nicholas Russo Julia Falvey Joey Falvey Edward Johnson NOVEMBER 18 Jaden Kenna Botte J.D. Oliveri Daniel D’Angelo Christian Mendoza Joyce Santana Brianna Tedeschi Alyssa Tedeschi Luke Singler Christopger Risley Delilah Cintron NOVEMBER 19 Meagan Perrotta Michael Attardo Patrick Deabreu Josiah Hutschenreuter Dakota Hall Gianluca Pirro Sarah Abdelhamid Angelina Pipitone Chloe Joy Reynolds Giuseppe Bongiorno NOVEMBER 20 Christina Knorr Danielle Nicolosi Marissa Corbo Nina A. Davis Vadym Kurbalidze Arianna Klapak Juliana Gearns Mason Avenoso Michael Daniel Tarulli Michael Gigante Rihanna Barriffe Jessica Jorgensen Kaitlyn Jorgensen

Kaela Castro NOVEMBER 21 Michael Chirelinson Matthew DiGaetano Angela Paolino Victor Moctezuma Victoria Moctezuma Ashton Sannino Thomas Cosentino Leighton Cheuk Nicholas Matthew Rinaldo Nicolena Plantamura Subhan Salman Michael Chirieleison Evan Michael Chernov NOVEMBER 22 Krystal Noguera Gina Mendez Juliana Nirdosh Anthony Vigliotti James Mannino Za’Niyah Zayas Avery Canfield Dominic Mercurio NOVEMBER 23 Stephanie Mitchell Brandon Baetz Derek Poppham Paulina Eve Pearlman John Campagna Carolyn Ellis Allie Harrell NOVEMBER 24 Pina Rammairone Daniel Joseph Davis Amy Hanley Emily Canzoneri Amy Hanley Demitra Tsatsaronis Breana Tagliaferro LaNiya Holloway Abdul Aziz Valentina Loverso Olivia Vrakas Maliyah Mitchell NOVEMBER 25 Khalid Mohammed Carissa Laiacona Nicole Vierno Domenick Enrico Amaya McDonough Noah Valenzuela Justin Taunton Haley Doctor

NOVEMBER 26 Ariana Ramirez Stephanie Cohen Justin Todd Cohen Ryan Swanton Veronica Scacco Christopher Bianchi Zachary Pritchard NOVEMBER 27 Amanda Collins Lameeka Collins Alyssa Ferrandino Nicholas Robbins Chaamy Yapa Lenny Dimatteo NOVEMBER 28 Charles Romano Andrew Minew Matthew Gitlin Sophia Mascaro Michael Vito DeLeo Lizzy Cruz Kaylee Ferrer Ryan Kvetny Delasi Agbe NOVEMBER 29 Laura Strauss Rebecca Weisselberg William Tyler Port Jacqueline Mills Gabrielle Anselmo Elias Tavarez Eva Duran Aiden Kilcullen NOVEMBER 30 Nick Geraci Donata Dondiego Katie Marrazzo Francesca Sacce Jordon Savarese Allison Jordan Jason Nonnenmacher Jr. Jadah McCombs Amelie Spinella

Birthday Club members are entitled to receive

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

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10/26/16 2:15 PM

parenting

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sobby melancholic tears of sadness and disbelief.

I am in total disbelief that my babies aren’t babies anymore. I’m in disbelief that my babies need bigger furniture for their bigger bodies and their bigger needs. Bigger, bigger, bigger. Everything used to be so teeny tiny, and now it’s all about getting bigger.

So I watched as my children’s baby crib was taken apart, piece by piece, and then piled into the truck, rail by rail. We gave them the mattress too, as it was only gently used and easily cleaned, so they tossed that in the truck next. Then we handed over all of the nuts and bolts essential to putting it back together.

I remember the day we brought my baby girl home from the hospital and placed her in that crib for the first time, her tiny six pound body barely a speck on the horizon of pale pink linens. I leaned over the rail and watched as she napped peacefully, fixated on her beautiful newborn face, counting her endless little newborn breaths and feeling overwhelmed by emotions.

bye bye baby (furniture)

I remember one day my nephew slept over and he and my son hopped up and down on the crib mattress all morning like little crazy kangaroos, bouncing wildly until each child collapsed in a fit of unbearably adorable baby giggles.

When I was nine months pregnant with my daughter and nesting like a madwoman, I took on the task of raising the crib mattress myself while my husband was at work and my son was asleep on the couch. Determined, I yanked that crib away from the letting go of everything but the memories wall and heaved the mattress to the floor, then began screwing and unscrewing in the appropriate spots until the crib was ready for my baby girl. It took We got rid of our kids’ baby furniture today. More specifme all afternoon, probably two hours longer than it would have ically, we sold it on eBay. Someone bid on it, won, and then taken my husband (or anyone even the slightest bit mechancame to my house and hauled it all away in a big black pickup ically inclined and/or not ten seconds away from going into truck. labor). But, man oh man, was I one proud preggo.

I cried like a baby.

After they lugged all the components of the crib aboard their truck, they moved on to the baby dresser. More tears Not the kind of tears that roll quietly down the cheek as one streaming down. I’d stored more than clothes in the drawers is overcome with feelings of bittersweet nostalgia. Big, fat,

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of that pale wooden dresser. The messy bibs worn during baby’s first solid food meal, the red and green Santa pajamas designated for baby’s first Christmas Eve, miniature socks and hats barely big enough for a Cabbage Patch doll, a different onesie for each color of the rainbow, and probably every dinosaur tee shirt ever created; those drawers were jam-packed with some of my fondest memories.

Then I watched as they carted the last piece off: our changing table. I laughed between sobs recalling how my son, at one week old, had peed on his own face while lying on that changing table. Caught somewhere between horror and amusement, I was unable to react quickly enough to stop the powerful stream of newborn urine from landing directly in his eye. I wasn’t sure whether to laugh or cry then, so it seems fitting to be simultaneously doing both now.

What is it about these mementos, these physical pieces of our children’s lives that are so difficult to let go? We needed to get rid of that furniture—we need both the space and the money.

Logically, there was no alternative to selling it.

But it breaks my heart to know my precious baby furniture is gone forever.

It brings me comfort to know that I’ll have memories of my children’s infant years forever, even if I no longer own the memorabilia itself.

Those memories will bring me comfort as the years continue to pass and my babies continue to grow out of clothes and toys and beds. The memorabilia will pile up, I’m sure, and like everything else, most of it will have to be given away.

But the memories will linger forever in my heart.

Memories, thankfully, can’t be sold on eBay.

By Jeannine Cintron, a Staten Island mom of two.

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55 10/27/16 11:58 AM

Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Events & Activities

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Tuesday, November 1

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3

La Leche Breast Feeding Meeting Christ Church of New Brighton 76 Franklin Avenue 347-432-1134 10:30am • Free • Adults Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8-14

Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 212-620-5462 4pm • Free • All ages NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd & Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, November 2

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 plus admission • Ages 1-5

Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 8am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+

Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library

Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Five Senses West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-6 Halloween Party South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages Instructional Flag Football Ocean Breeze Park Quintard Street and Nugent Avenue 212-360-3440 4pm • Free •Ages 8-17 Slime Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 888-623-3724 4pm • Free • Ages 6+ Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Math Tutoring Tuesdays Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • Grades 1-6 Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11

November Calendar.indd 1

Family Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • All ages Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

november Is:

American Diabetes Month National Adoption Month Lung Cancer Awareness Month Inspirational Role Models Month

important dates:

National Young Readers Week – November 9-13 All Saints Day – November 1 Dia de los Muertos – November 2 All Souls Day – November 2 Daylight Savings Time Ends – November 6 Election Day – November 8 Veterans Day – November 11 Thanksgiving – November 24 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Family Literacy Workshops Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 12:30pm • Free • Adults Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • $2 w/admission • Ages 2-10 Coding a Story West New Brighton Library

Thursday, November 3

1:30pm • $125 • Adults Paint Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Instructional Flag Football Ocean Breeze Park Quintard Street and Nugent Avenue 212-360-3440 4pm • Free • Ages 8-17 PIAB Pre-K Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Family Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place richmondcountypipesanddrums.com 7:30pm • Free • All ages

Friday, November 4

Preschool Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 10:45am • $3/memebers free • Age 2

Toddler Story Time & Activity Hour Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5

Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3/memebers free • Ages 3-4

Preschool Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5+ admission • Ages 1-5

Family Literacy Workshops Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 12:30pm • Free • Adults

Bouncing Babies West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/admission • All ages

Opera Classes Garibaldi-Meucci Museum 420 Tompkins Avenue 718-442-1608

Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504

10/26/16 1:38 PM

Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Events & Activities

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com 3pm • Free • All ages Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11

Saturday, November 5

It’s My Park Day at Conference House Park The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 212-360-3440 9am • Free • All ages Workshop: Portrait Photography Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 10am • $10 • All ages It’s My Park Day at Graniteville Quarry Park Graniteville Quarry Park Eunice Place and Van Name Avenue 212-360-3440 10am • Free • All ages

Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-11

Mustache Run! SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • Free w/admission • All ages Outdoor Skills: Backpacking Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Storytime with P.S. 44 Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 12pm • Free • All ages Reading Help Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 12pm • Free • Grade K-6 1st Saturday Family Art Workshop Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-727-1135 1pm • Free w/admission • All ages

November Calendar.indd 2

Krazy Kidz West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5+ Baby Space!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:45am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Oh, Deer The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 2pm • Free • Ages 7+ Stargazing in Great Kills Great Kills Park Hylan Blvd. & Buffalo Street 212-535-2922 8:30pm • Free • All ages

Sunday, November 6

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977

Matinee Monday South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 1pm • Free • All ages Preschool Story Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Crafternoon West New Brighton Library

Slime Time

Tuesday, November 1 • 4-5pm Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 888-623-3724 newyorkcity.madscience.org

Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages 3rd Annual Pumpkin Smash!

PS 9 1055 Targee St. 212-219-8090 11am • Free • All ages

132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free • Ages 2-4

Ooze into a gooey hour of sliming around! Create slime using the Mad Science recipe, and then enter the Slime Olympics! Take home your own concoction of MadScience Slime! For ages 6 and older. Limit to 20 participants, please register by phone or in-person.

9am • Free • All ages Conference House Park Tree Planting The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 212-360-3440 9am • Free • All ages Mount Moses Hike (Vigorous) High Rock Park 200 Nevada Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Doggie Boot Camp Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road (646) 596-6706 3:30pm • $10 • All ages

Monday, November 7

All Join In! Stapleton Library

976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+ ​Story Time Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • Ages 2-5 Family Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Tuesday, November 8

Cool School Holiday Free Admission All day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • Free • All ages

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • 5+ admission • Ages 1-5 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Magic from Around the World Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3pm • Free • All ages Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Professor Science West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 6+ Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Math Tutoring Tuesdays Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • Grades 1-6 Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 212-620-5462 4pm • Free • All ages NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, November 9

Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642

10/26/16 1:38 PM

Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Events & Activities

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com 8am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Bird and Nature Walk: Clove Lakes Park The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-727-1135 10am • Free • All ages Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Map Reading and Wayfinding Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11:45am • Free • Ages 5-9

5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Thursday, November 10

Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 10:45am • $3/members free • Age 2 Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3/members free • Ages 3-4 Toddler Time Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 plus admission • Ages 1-5 Bouncing Babies West New Brighton Library

Coding a Story West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8-14 Tween Crafters Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 9-14 Family Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime: Art Explorers!

Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • All ages Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690

November Calendar.indd 3

Friday, November 11

Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Treasure Hunt The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 2pm • $1 • Ages 8+ Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 3pm • Free • All ages

Saturday, November 12

It’s My Park Day at Conference House Park The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 212-360-3440 9am • Free • All ages

Third Annual Pumpkin Smash

Orienteering High Rock Park 200 Nevada Avenue 718-351-3450 11:45am • Free • Ages 10-14 Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • $2 plus admission • Ages 2-10

richmondcountypipesanddrums.com 7:30pm • Free • All ages

Saturday, November 5 • 11am-3pm P.S. 9 1055 Targee Street 212-219-8090 nyc.gov/sanitation Please bring your left over Halloween pumpkins for smashing or launching with our custom catapult, create handmade instruments and works of art, get your face painted, enjoy bounce-houses, slides, try your hand at our carnival games, as well as a few surprise additions. Food vendors, popcorn, cotton candy, baked goods, and our favorite Chili Cook-off.

976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Paint Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Second Saturday Science 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 Teen Lounge 11am • Free w/ admission • All ages Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road Sensory Story Time 718-984-0945 Stapleton Library 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 Homework Help 11am • Free • Ages 2-10 Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street Vintage Camera Day 718-442-0158 Alice Austen House Museum 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 Family Storytime 12pm • Free • All ages Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd Storytime with P.S. 44 718-494-1642 Mariners Harbor Library 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 The Pipes Are Calling 12pm • Free • All ages St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place

Reading Help Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 12pm • Free • Grade K-6 La Leche Breast Feeding Meeting Sunnyside Call for location 347-432-1134 12:15pm • Free • Adults Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 2pm • Free • All ages IDAT Book Club Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • Ages 10-18 Astronomy Lemon Creek Park 175 Johnston Terrace 718-967-3542 6pm • Free • All ages

Sunday, November 13

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages Fall Flat 5K Trail Race Willowbrook Park Eton Place and Richmond Ave. 718-351-3450 10am • $35 • All ages Creature Clues Clove Lakes Park 626 Clove Road 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Doggie Boot Camp Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road (646) 596-6706 3:30pm • $10 • All ages

Monday, November 14

All Join In! Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street

10/26/16 1:38 PM

Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Events & Activities

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com 718-727-0427 11am • Free • Ages 2-4

718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Krazy Kidz West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5+

Science of Magic West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 6+

Baby Space!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:45am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11

Matinee Monday South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 1pm • Free • All ages

Math Tutoring Tuesdays Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Preschool Story Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5

Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11

Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+

Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Tuesday, November 15

718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages

Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd & Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 plus admission • Ages 1-5

La Leche Breast Feeding Virtual Meeting Dr. Charles Patterino 2281 Victory Blvd.

347-432-1134 7:30pm • Free • Adults

November Calendar.indd 4

Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • $2 w/admission • Ages 2-10

Mo-vember, also known as, No-Shave November is an annual event involving the growing of mustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of various cancers. Don a fake mustache for a pre- NYC Marathon Fun run especially for little ones.

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 212-620-5462 4pm • Free • All ages

Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street

Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months

Saturday, November 5 • 11am-12pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 sichildrensmuseum.org

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+

Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Mustache Run!

​Story Time Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • Ages 2-5 Family Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11

Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 8am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Wednesday, November 16

Knitting & Crocheting Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 8am • Free • All ages

Thursday, November 17

Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 10:45am • $3/members free • Age 2 Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3/members free • Ages 3-4 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 plus admission • Ages 1-5 Bouncing Babies West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Paint Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Half-baked Hobbies Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 8-11 Movie of the Month Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • All ages

Coding a Story West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8-14

Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11

Family Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages

Family Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11

Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8

The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place richmondcountypipesanddrums.com 7:30pm • Free • All ages

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6 Safe Sleep Family Literacy Workshop West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 6pm • Free • Adults

Friday, November 18

Toddler Story Time & Activity Hour Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5

Preschool Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642

10/26/16 1:38 PM

Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Events & Activities

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 5 Senses Programs-in-a-Box Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 12:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 3pm • Free • All ages Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Canvas Kids and Gallery West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 7-12

298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages

Sunday, November 20

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Doggie Boot Camp Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road (646) 596-6706 3:30pm • $10 • All ages

Storytime with P.S. 44 Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 12pm • Free • All ages Reading Help Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 12pm • Free • Grade K-6 Thanksgiving with the Beasts Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway 718-442-3100 12pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Historic New York: Native Americans The Conference House

November Calendar.indd 5

Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+ ​Story Time Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • Ages 2-5 Elephant & Piggie Picnic Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Quidditch Pong Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690

Baby Buzz

Saturday, November 19

Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Preschool Story Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-11

Every Wednesday • 10:30am-11:30am Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 castletonhill.org

It’s My Park Day at Conference House Park The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 212-360-3440 9am • Free • All ages

Super Science Saturdays: Simple and Complex Machines Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-273-3951 10am • $10 • Ages 8-13

1pm • Free • All ages

Free class for babies (0-12 months) and their caregivers, with age appropriate toys and music along with time for socialization for babies and adults.

Sunday Salon: Sacha Lecca Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 5pm • $15 • All ages

Monday, November 21

All Join In! Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free • Ages 2-4

Krazy Kidz West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5+ Baby Space!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:45am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Matinee Monday South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834

5pm • Free • Ages 10-18 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Tuesday, November 22

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Safe Sleep Family Literacy Workshop Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11am • Free • Adults Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 plus admission • Ages 1-5 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Tuesday Toons West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+ Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Thanksgiving Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • All ages Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 212-620-5462 4pm • Free • All ages Make Your Own Balloon Animals!

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4:30pm • Free • Ages 6+ NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, November 23

Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 8am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Bird and Nature Walk: Wolfe’s Pond Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd & Forest Ave 718-727-1135

10/26/16 1:38 PM

Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Events & Activities

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com 10am • Free • All ages Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • $2 plus admission • Ages 2-10 Coding a Story West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8-14

Toddler Story Time & Activity Hour Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5 Preschool Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 5 Senses Programs-in-a-Box Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 12:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Movie Matinee Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages

Family Storytime: Art Explorers!

Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • All ages

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11

Friday, November 25

Black Friday Hike: Post-Thanksgiving Super Hike (Vigorous) Gateway National Recreation Area 210 New York Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages

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Open Craft Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-16

Sunday, November 27

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Explore various machines in stations including relations between a screw and inclined plane, dissecting machines, and examining pulleys.

Register online. Walk-ins welcome. $10 for non-members, $5 for members -- includes museum admission.

Professor Science West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 6+

Happy Thanksgiving!

Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Saturday, November 19 • 10am-12pm Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-727-1135 statenislandmuseum.org

Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8

Thursday, November 24

Storytime with P.S. 44 Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 12pm • Free • All ages

Super Science Saturday: Simple & Complex Machines

Secret of a Book Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 10-14 Family Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages

718-816-4506 11am • Free • All ages

Saturday, November 26

It’s My Park Day at Conference House Park The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 212-360-3440 9am • Free • All ages Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages Day Arts & Crafts Fair Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

Day Arts & Crafts Fair Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 11am • Free • All ages Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Monday, November 28

All Join In! Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free • Ages 2-4

Krazy Kidz West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5+ Baby Space!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427

11:45am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Preschool Story Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+ ​Story Time Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • Ages 2-5 Family Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Tuesday, November 29

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 plus admission • Ages 1-5 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Painting With Nature: Leaves!

West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4+ Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Math Tutoring Tuesdays Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636

10/26/16 1:38 PM

Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Events & Activities

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com 4pm • Free • Grades 1-6 Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 212-620-5462 4pm • Free • All ages NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, November 30

Knitting & Crocheting Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 8am • Free • All ages

718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • $2 plus admission • Ages 2-10 LiteracyINC: Story Hour West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 212-620-5462 3:30pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street

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Thursday, December 8

upcoming events Thursday, December 1

Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3/members free • Ages 3-4 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3/members free • Age 2

Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3/members free • Ages 3-4

Saturday, December 10

Annabella Gonzalez Dance Theatre: Season’s Cheers Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 2pm • Free w/admission • All ages The St. George Theatre Christmas Show St. George Theatre 35 Hyatt Street 718-442-2900 3pm • $10-45 • All ages

Thanksgiving with the Beasts

Saturday, November 19 • 12pm-3pm Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway 718-442-3100 statenislandzoo.org

Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 8am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months

In tradition with celebrating a harvest, join us as we make special Thanksgiving meals for our animals.

Saturday, December 3

Holiday Gift Gathering Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 10am • Free • All ages

Sunday, December 4

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Tuesday, December 6

NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 7

Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

Sunday, December 11

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages The St. George Theatre Christmas Show St. George Theatre 35 Hyatt Street 718-442-2900 3pm • $10-45 • All ages

Tuesday, December 13

NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd & Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 14

10:30am • Free • 0-12 months

Thursday, December 15

Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3/members free • Age 2 Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3/members free • Ages 3-4

Saturday, December 17

Super Science Saturdays: Candy Chromatography Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 10am • $10/$5 for members Ages 8-13 with an adult

Sunday, December 18

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Tuesday, December 20

NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 21

Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months

Sunday, December 25

NYRR Open Run: Conference House Park Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Tuesday, December 27

NYRR Open Run: Bridge at Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd & Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 28

Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215 10:30am • Free • 0-12 months

Baby Buzz Castleton Hill Moravian Church 1657 Victory Blvd.

718-442-5215

10/26/16 1:38 PM

fun stuff / party needs

Just Fun Kids Parties

Costume characters, fun activities, games, face painting & more!

Ded Moroz & Snegurochka Show

Natalia

I speak Russian & English 347.681.9102 facebook.com/justfunforkids atlantanata@gmail.com

Party time entertainment

Party With Us Now!

• Disc Jockeys • Video Taping • Karaoke • M/F Dancers • Party Servers • Dancing Gorillas • Caricaturist • Magicians • Singing Telegrams • Celebrity Look-a-Likes

• Costume Characters • Clowns • Puppet Show • Petting Zoo • Theme Parties • Double Dare Mini Circus • Dress Up Tea Parties • Carnival Games • Cotton Candy

• Candy Carts • Ice-Cream Sundae Bar • Sno-Cone Machines • Hot Dog Wagon • Candy Sticks • Craft Parties • Sand Art • Spin Art, T-Shirts & Pictures

• Stuffed Bears • Airbrushed Tattoos • Wax Hands • Candle Art • Rides • Moon Walks • Ball Crawl • Super Slide • Dunk Tank • Gyro • Train • Carousel

• Jousts • Catapillar • Lazer Maze • Birthday Machine • Obstacle Course • Casino Parties • Photo Favors • Balloon Typhoons • Chair Rental • And More!

www.PartyTimeEntertainmentInc.com • 718.667.8998

check out our party directory on siparent.com

Party Smarty 718-556-9475 Entertainment 718.556.9475

Affordable Party Packages Face Painting, Glitter Art Tattoos Sculpture Balloons, Temporary Tatoos, DJ’s, Entertainers, Karaoke, Rides, Spin Art, Sand Art, Candy Art, Arts & Crafts, Theme Parties, Stuff a Bear Parties, Candy Cart, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Snokones, Pretzels, Sundae Bar, Carnival Games, & More!

www.partysmartyentertainment.com

Costume Characters, Concession Rentals, Photo Booths, Candy Carts, & Sweet Treats!

917.400.0406 www.partyblissllc.com 7427 Amboy Road Staten Island, NY 10307 november 2016

www.siparent.com

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stuff you need / family classifieds

Staten Island Family Music

DANCE STUDIO

Dance Birthday Parties

2½ to adult

KINDER COMBOS • BALLET • TAP MODERN • JAZZ • HIP HOP 230 Livingston Ave (near Wagner HS)

718-727-2649 www.silhouettedancestudio.net

The premier music enrichment program for babies, toddlers, 3, 4 & 5 year olds and their grown-ups!

3 convenient locations.

Morning, afternoon & weekend classes.

www.SIFamilyMusic.com 718.207.1128 Mary Lee Aloia, Director

“Help Bring Your Child’s Education to the Next Level”

ADVANCED TUTORING

KAREN L. GOLDMAN, MA, LMHC-BC PSYCHOTHERAPIST & BEREAVEMENT SPECIALIST

All Grades & Subjects K-12

347-850-2322 (Appointment Only) • 1076 Forest Ave

karengoldmansitherapy.com NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor

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

Emma’s Watchogue Rd • 10314 Place 276 347-850-2322

Staten Island Grief & Loss Center for Children & Families

Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc. 6 WEEKS–12 YEARS • EARLY PRE-SCHOOL CURRICULUM OPEN 7AM-5:30PM (EXTENDED HOURS AVAILABLE) • Summer Camp & Recreational Activities • NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted • Hablamos Espanol • Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper • Over Nights & Weekends • Children Ages 2+ Must Wear a Uniform ACCEPTING ADMISSION AT OUR NEW LOCATION ON ST. PAUL’S AVENUE

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com

718-954-4108

5 LOCATIONS LOCATED OFF FOREST AVE, NEAR PS 22

NYS CERTIFIED TEACHERS READY TO WORK WITH YOUR CHILD

C: 718-755-3025

Piano Lessons with Suzanne Odessa • All Levels • All Ages • Personalized Instruction Adults & Seniors...no better time than now for music

917.797.9681 347.466.5953

musik2kids@gmail.com

Tutor for Grades K-5 NYS Certified Teacher in General & Special Education with over 6 years full time experience. Reading Phonics and Math. Call Melissa at 347.321.0989 for pricing & availabilty.

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Evolve, Create, Grow!

at

The Sunnyside School (for 27 years)

PIANO • VOICE GUITAR LESSONS by college educated professionals

FREE TRIAL LESSON

RECITALS • ON PREMISE PARKING

www.sunnysideschool.net 1366 Clove Road • 718-442-4848

Tutoring By Christine Affordable tutoring with proven, positive results.

Private tutoring and small classes available for TACHS, SHSAT, HSPT, PSAT, SAT, ELA and Math State test prep.

Orton Gillingham trained teachers available to tutor ELA in all grade levels.

917.748.9089 christine@tutoringbychristine.com

www.tutoringbychristine.com

ONLINE TUTORING DIRECTORY Opportunity for Tutoring Businesses to be Listed on siparent.com!

718.494.1932 info@siparent.com

can your dentist deliver these services?

• Intravenous and Oral Sedation • Nitrous Oxide “sweet air”

• 42 years of experience with over 3,000 hours of continuing education

• Painless injections with “The Wand.”

• CPR and emergency management trained staff

• Doctor’s cell phone number

• Comfort care cleanings

• Drill free dentistry

• Always see the same Doctor

• State of the art oral cancer screening with Vizilite

• One hour hygiene visit devoted to oral health

• Financing available • An overall heath approach with blood pressure and blood sugar testing • Be seen on time!

• Evening and weekend hours

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

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

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

Staten island dental care 718.761.5757

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

Special Web Offer! www.AfraidOfTheDentist.com

1520 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314

We are sorry but we are not able to accept Medicaid november 2016

www.siparent.com

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stuff you need / it’s in the cards

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november 2016

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stuff you need / professional directory

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

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

psychotherapist

orthodontics

attorney

Kim Allen-McGinley lcsw

Psychotherapist Specializing in Children Ages 4 and Up

Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D.

Individual, Couples & Family Therapy

Specialist in Orthodontics

Gentle, Personal, Quality Care for Children & Adults 444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312

(718) 967-5213

www.bracesbydrindelicato.com

Member American Association of Orthodontists

Speech, OT & PT

psychotherapist Ph.D, LCSW

Anxiety, Fears & Worries, Anger, Depression, Grief/Sadness, Insecurity/Shyness, Self-Esteem, Relationship Problems Private, Comfortable & Confidential

718-650-9000

michael.w.desimone@gmail.com 175 Burbank Ave (New Dorp) michaeldesimonetherapy.com

Evaluation & treatment of pediatric speech & language, fine & gross motor delays & disorders

• Department of Education CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation • Most Insurance Accepted • Homecare & School Services Offered

We accept all major insurance plans. Free consultations.

speech pathology claire guttsman m.a., c.c.c. - slp

Some Insurances Accepted

15 1st Street, 2nd Floor • 10306

speech pathology

NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists, Occupational & Physical Therapists Evaluation and Treatment of Pediatric Speech, Language, Feeding, Oral, Fine & Gross Motor Disorders, P.R.O.M.P.T., Russian Bilingual Services, State of the Art Sensory Gym Dept of Ed Provider (CPSE & RSA) Top of Tertiary Tier Designation

www.qualitycarespeech.com

speech pathology 718-967-0359 • 3767 Richmond Ave www.brightstartspeech.com brightstart@si.rr.com • Private practice with energetic & talented Speech Language Pathologists • Extensive experience Now • Full range of services Offering (diagnostics & evaluations) Homecare • Occupational Therapy • NYS & ASHA Certified • Multi-Lingual Therapists Speech & Language • NYC Dept of Ed Contracted Agency for Preschool & School Age Children Pathology, P.C.

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

SPEECH, OT & PT

3767 Hylan Blvd (Great Kills) Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director

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

Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling

917-837-1317 CulturallyCompetentCounseling@Gmail

718.605.4301

718-608-1508

LCSW-R, MSEd, CRC, CASAC

718.873.4516

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

Michael DeSimone Helping Adults, Children and Adolescents with

Goal Oriented Therapy ~ Dialectical Behavior Therapy ~ Cognitive Therapy Play Therapy 175 Burbank ave • 10306

Psychotherapist

Kim Williams-Jenkins

Sandra Mazzucco M.A., C.C.C.-SLP

NYS Licensed Speech Language Pathologist

Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults PROMPT Trained Oral Motor & Feeding Therapy Specializing in Fluency ASHA Certified 465 Belfield Ave • Annadale Town North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave

718-815-6024

speech pathology DOE APPROVED TO PROVIDE MONO AND BILINGUAL SERVICES FOR PRE-SCHOOL AND SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN.

Speech and Language Pathology Practice Serving You and Your Children

Autistic Spectrum Disorders, PDD, Craniofacial Differences, Fluency Disorders, Apraxia of Speech, “Late Talkers,” Hearing Impairments & Phonological / Articulation Disorders 347.640.4SLP (4757) • 188 Hylan Blvd • 10305 www.bbslp.org • Email: info@bbslp.org

Most Insurances Accepted

Call Us and Have Your Business Advertised Here!

1076 forest ave. (corner of Manor Rd.)

718-447-5501

Certified professional, providing quality evaluations and treatment of adults and children for over 35 years. additional services: Public Speaking Improvement, Accent Reduction, Corporate Speech Pathology & Lecturing

68 Professional Directory.indd 2

718.494.1932

november 2016

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stuff you need / professional directory speech pathology

speech pathology

PreCare Speech Language Pathology PC • Diagnosis & treatment of infants, toddlers, adults • Autism, learning and communication disabilities • Articulation, impaired language, stuttering or lisps • All major credit cards and insurances

www.slpmd.com

718.259.4001 • 1829 Richmond Rd

Speech and Language Therapy Associates of Staten Island, PLLC PROMPT Trained Therapists SOS Feeding Approach (Find the Fun in Feeding Program) Orton-Gillingham & Wilson trained therapists

Individualized and Customized: Language Enhancement Programs, Auditory Training Programs, Fluency Enhancement Programs, Oral-Sensory-Motor Plans, Voice Treatment Programs, Accent Reduction Programs, FeedingTreatment Plans, Pediatric & Adult Clients We welcome NYC DOE clients, and we are now an associate of The Perfect Playground for all CSE cases.

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

New Lisa Jiannetto, MA, CCC-SLP, Director Location 718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

advertiser directory A Taste of Honey................................... 29

Fun Station............................................. 27

Serena’s Catering Hall......................... 18

Applied Behavioral Mental Health... 18

Garden State Rocks............................. 23

Showplace Entertainment.................... 6

Archdiocese of New York................... 19

Genesis Fertility...................................... 26

SI Academy............................................. 7

Archie’s Pizza......................................... 20

Gingerbread Learning Center.......... 71

SI Dental................................................. 65

Audiology Island.................................. 17

High Hopes............................................ 22

SI Pediatric Dentistry............................. 22

Bario’s Restaurant ................................ 55

Holy Child............................................... 29

SIUH Northwell Health.........Back Cover

Bricks 4 Kidz............................................ 39

Hugs & Kiddies...................................... 25

Small World Dental.............................. 43

Casa Belvedere.................................... 67

Island Shores......................................... 23

St. Joseph Hill Academy..................... 11

Castleton Hill Moravian....................... 49

Jewelry Junkie...................................... 49

Staten Island Ballet............................... 13

Child Mind Institute............................... 21

Kiddie Wonderland............................. 25

Supreme Chocolatier.......................... 20

Curtis High School................................ 41

Master Curry Karate............................... 3

Suzanne’s Fashion Corner.................. 43

Delco Drugs .......................................... 21

Mathnasium.......................................... 23

The Arsenal at Central Park................ 11

Direct Behavioral ................................. 43

Mini World Preschool........................... 45

The Stone House................................... 51

Dr. Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental) ............ 39

New Dorp Moravian Church............. 47

The Village Preschool.......................... 55

Dr. Michael D’Anna............................. 49

Once Upon A Child............................. 45

Thursday’s Child.................................... 70

Dr. Phyllis Merlino DDS......................... 41

Pinot’s Palette........................................ 41

Vik’s Fine Jewelry.................................. 11

Early Start, Inc........................................ 25

Rab’s Country Lanes............................ 15

Volunteers of America........................ 51

Eltingville Lutheran................................ 39

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

Wagner College................................... 45

Evolution Dance Company............... 45

Richmond University Med. Ctr............. 5

Wishers of Literacy................................ 26

Fastrackids............................................. 47

Richmondtown Garden Center........ 29

Wizard of Art & Design......................... 43

Fidelis Care.............................................. 9

Rock ‘Em Not Sock ‘Em....................... 21

Words ‘N Motion................................... 11 november 2016

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~Equal Opportunity Employer~

UPK/Pre-K For All Full Day Program

Celebrating our 29th Year...

Looking forward to our 30th!

To you, they’re learning.

To them, they’re having fun.

For Information About The Early Intervention Program Call 311.

available with Master Degree level teachers Classroom Based Programs With ABA Instruction for 2-3 years olds (limited space) Programs Available for Ages 0-5 5 Days - Full Day/Half Day Extended Daycare Hours 7am-7pm Available As per Section 4410 of Article 89 of the Education Law

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

• Diagnostic Evaluations and Therapy

by Licensed Certified Professionals.

Placement determined by NYC CPSE.

• NYS Approved Preschool Evaluation Site.

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

• FREE Tuition and Transportation* * For all eligibile children. Funding provided through state and local agencies. Parent may transport for reimbursement with approval.

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

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

718-356-0008 www.gingerbreadlctr.com ~Two Convenient Staten Island Locations~ 80 Woodrow Rd • 471 North Gannon Ave Email: gingerbread@gingerbreadlctr.com

november 2016

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PRST STD

SOLUTIONS TO EVERYDAY PARENTING

16 Shenandoah Avenue • Suite C Staten Island, New York 10314

U.S. Postage Paid Staten Island, Ny

www.siparent.com

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